Man sent to jail for sexual relationship with 15-year-old girl

Troy Ambrose, at left, with his attorney, David Glancy.

By Allison Scarbrough. Contributing Editor.

LUDINGTON — A 22-year-old Fountain man was sentenced to one year in jail in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Nov. 17, after pleading guilty last month to attempted third-degree criminal sexual conduct (CSC).

Troy Leland Ambrose engaged in a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl when he was 21 years old at the time, said Mason County Prosecutor Paul Spaniola.

Ambrose, who was initially charged with third-degree CSC — person 13-15 years of age; accosting children for immoral purposes; and using computers to commit a crime, pleaded guilty to an added fourth count of attempted third-degree CSC.

In exchange for Ambrose’s guilty plea, the other three counts were dismissed.

Ambrose, who has no prior criminal record, was cooperative during the investigation, Spaniola said, which is a “positive development” in his case.

Ambrose was “open and honest during the investigation,” his attorney David Glancy said. “My client was in a dating relationship with this individual,” which involved “clearly consensual acts.” “Mr. Ambrose clearly learned his lesson.”

“The age range difference is significant,” Judge Susan K. Sniegowski said. “The simple fact of her age – she was not old enough to give consent.”

Ambrose, who received credit for one day served in jail, was also sentenced to five years probation and must have no contact with victim.