A man was sentenced to two to four years in prison for sending a Facebook message admitting to raping a woman he had sexually assaulted in college years ago. Ian Cleary, 32, was extradited from France to Pennsylvania over the assault at Gettysburg College, with the sentencing occurring more than a year later. The judge considered Cleary’s guilty plea, remorse, and mental health history when giving a sentence below state guidelines.
Cleary stated that he messaged the woman in 2021 about the assault that occurred eight years prior as part of a 12-step program seeking atonement. The victim, Shannon Keeler, expressed how the messages reopened old wounds from the assault and criticized the system for failing to prosecute the case promptly.
The court heard Keeler’s impactful statement detailing her struggle to pursue charges over the years, reflecting the challenges faced by many women in similar situations. Cleary faced a maximum of 10 years in prison, with both sides initially proposing a longer sentence.
Despite Keeler’s lawyer expressing disappointment in the sentencing, there was relief that the case had concluded. Cleary will also be required to register as a sex offender. The assault occurred when Cleary sneaked into Keeler’s dorm during winter break and assaulted her when she was just 18 years old.
Judge Kevin Hess emphasized the severity of the crime, noting the horrifying nature of such incidents on college campuses. Cleary’s admission of guilt and pursuit of forgiveness were acknowledged, despite the significant time that had passed since the assault.
Cleary, who had moved to California after the attack and worked for Tesla before relocating overseas, apologized to Keeler and his father in court. His family chose not to comment on the case or attend most court hearings. Keeler’s persistence in seeking justice over the years finally led to Cleary’s arrest in France, where he had been detained on an unrelated charge.
Keeler’s unwavering determination to hold Cleary accountable highlighted the challenges faced by sexual assault survivors in seeking justice. She expressed the toll the ordeal had taken on her and her family, emphasizing the lasting impact of the assault despite the passage of time.