Man Sentenced to 2-4 Years for Raping Woman Six Years After Assault

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Shannon Keeler had spent years pushing authorities to bring charges against Ian Cleary for raping her in 2013 while they were college students in Pennsylvania. After Cleary sent her Facebook messages admitting the assault six years later, prosecutors had him arrested and sentenced to two to four years in prison. Cleary was also required to register as a sex offender for life. The woman, now 30, expressed relief and gratitude that justice had been served and that Cleary would carry the label of a sexual predator for the rest of his life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ian Cleary, 32, was sentenced to 2-4 years in prison for raping Shannon Keeler in 2013 at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania.
  • Cleary sent Keeler Facebook messages in 2019 admitting the assault, which led to his arrest and conviction.
  • Keeler had spent years pushing authorities to bring charges, only to be told there was insufficient evidence.
  • The case highlights the trauma and aftermath faced by survivors of sexual assault.
  • Keeler addressed Cleary in court, reading a statement that detailed the harm caused by the assault and her relief at finally seeing justice served.
  • Cleary's lawyer asked for an 18-month sentence, which was denied by the court.

Statistics:

  • 2013: The year in which Ian Cleary raped Shannon Keeler at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania.
  • 2019: The year in which Cleary sent Keeler Facebook messages admitting the assault.
  • April 2024: The month in which Cleary was arrested in France.
  • January 2024: The month in which Cleary was extradited back to the United States.
  • 2-4 years: The sentence given to Ian Cleary for raping Shannon Keeler.

Sources:

  • Motion for Sentence by District Attorney's Office in Adams County, Pa.
  • Statement by Shannon Keeler in court on Monday, as read on "Good Morning America".
  • Press release by the Adams County District Attorney's Office.