Tecumseh man pleads guilty to child molestation


Danny Joe Williams

Danny Joe Williams, 59, of Tecumseh, on June 7 entered a guilty plea to the class B felony of first degree child molestation. The case, originally filed in Ozark County, was moved to Wright County in 2017 in response to Williams’ motion for a change of venue, which was accepted by Circuit Judge Craig Carter.
During the proceedings, Ozark County Prosecuting Attorney John Garrabrant told the court that the state would present evidence to show beyond a reasonable doubt that on or about Jan. 23, 2016, Williams subjected a confidential victim to sexual contact by touching the victim’s genitals with his hand. The offense occurred at Williams’ residence in Tecumseh, and the victim was younger than 14 at the time.
Williams admitted to the court that he did touch the child.
Garrabrant said there was no agreement between the state and Williams regarding punishment. Class B felonies have a range of punishment of between five and 15 years in the Department of Corrections. In addition, Williams will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Williams’ attorney, Ryan Reynolds, requested and the court ordered that the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole conduct an investigation and prepare a sentencing advisory report. Sentencing has been set for Sept. 24 in Wright County. Williams remains free on bond until his sentencing date.
Garrabrant expressed thanks to the young victim and a witness for their courage in coming forward. He also complimented law enforcement officers and Child Advocacy Center personnel for their hard work on the case.

Ozark County Times

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