It was the sentence the state had recommended, while Doney’s defense attorney had asked for five years with the Department of Corrections, which allows for a placement in a prerelease facility.

In June 2017, Doney was charged with sexual intercourse without consent or, in the alternative, sexual assault. Doney admitted the sexual assault charge after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors.

Doney spoke at the sentencing, reading from a prepared statement. He said his actions had caused an “irrevocable ripple effect” and that he was sorry. His mother also spoke on his behalf.

District Judge Mary Jane Knisely stressed the damage Doney's actions had likely caused to the victim and said Doney needed to be removed from the community. She said Doney would never “get well” and benefit from sex offender treatment unless he took responsibility for his actions.

“So tell me what you did, because this is the time you get honest,” Knisely said.