News Flash

Re: Joshua Swann

Today Joshua Paul Swann, age 38, was sentenced to 24 years in state prison for a sexual assault on a Sonora woman that occurred in April of this year. The confidential victim had met Swann through an acquaintance and had previously invited him into her home for a visit when they arranged to meet in the City of Sonora. During that visit he forced himself upon her. Prior to the assault Swann recounted his prior criminal history (including convictions for arson, criminal threats and assault with a deadly weapon) and told her he was not afraid of going back to prison. During the assault the victim stated she did not resist out of fear of being harmed. The victim did not immediately report the assault but eventually, with the support of friends, contacted the Sonora Police Department. The defendant was subsequently arrested and charged with Sodomy, a violation of Penal Code section 289. According to Assistant District Attorney Eric Hovatter, who prosecuted the case, the defendant faced a potential 25-years-to-life sentence but was offered a 24 year sentence, after discussions with the victim, to avoid further traumatizing her and to avoid the risk involved in a jury trial. At sentencing the victim stood in the hushed courtroom, faced Swann and told the court that she decided to invite the defendant into her life was because she was lonely and she assumed she would be safe but that the experience left her feeling she will never feel completely safe again. She added that she still has vivid nightmares and struggles to sleep. The defendant will have to serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole. 

For more information contact: Eric Hovatter, Assistant District Attorney 209-588-5450