By ANDREA VanVALKENBURG
PLATTSBURGH — An admitted child molester will spend more than two decades behind bars for sexually abusing two boys.
Thomas L. West was indicted twice last year for the abuse of a 10-year-old and another boy, who is now 16.
Authorities believe the 44-year-old sexually abused the younger boy at least three times: at West's residence, at an area pond and then in the woods behind his home.
In the other case, police said, West attempted to force that boy to engage in sexual acts and then actually forced him another time.
West recently returned to Clinton County Court, admitted to the abuse and pleaded guilty to some of the charges against him.
Assistant District Attorney Chantelle Schember said West was brought back to court Monday and was sentenced to an aggregate term of 23⅓ to 27 years behind bars.
That term includes time handed down for a probation violation.
Once released, West will have to undergo 20 years of post-release supervision.
He will also have to register as a sex offender.
West remains at Clinton County Jail pending processing into state prison.
He is not allowed to have any contact with his victims and has also been ordered to pay court fees.
E-mail Andrea VanValkenburg at: avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com
