Tape shows child sex, police say
Friday, August 29, 2008
HAMILTON — A Hamilton man charged with gross sexual imposition and rape videotaped himself having sex with a young girl at least once, according to police testimony.
John Mucher, 33, of Craig Drive, appeared in Hamilton Municipal Court Thursday, Aug. 28, for a preliminary hearing. After hearing testimony from Hamilton Detective Mark Hayes, Judge Dan Gattermeyer found sufficient evidence to bind the case over to a Butler County grand jury for consideration.
The detective said the abuse of the girl began when she was about four and continued until days before Mucher's arrest. A video found shows him performing sex acts with the victim, according to Hayes. It is dated January 2008.
Two computers and discs were taken by detectives from the Mucher residence. Police believe the computer equipment may contain additional child pornography. Hayes said the computers have not yet been examined for evidence.
Defense attorney Lawrence Hawkins III asked the judge to reconsider bond set at $200,000 at Mucher's arraignment on Wednesday, Aug. 20. Hawkins noted his client's ties to the community and requested a lower bond.
But Gattermeyer raised Mucher's bond to $500,000.
Butler County Assistant Prosecutor Jennifer McElfresh said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges against Mucher are possible.




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