CORTLAND, NY (CortacaToday) – A McGraw man who previously pled guilty to sex crimes is headed to prison.

Robert Schulte, 45, is sentenced to 15 years behind bars on a felony charge of a course of sexual conduct against a child. In May 2024, Schulte admitted to abusing a victim multiple times in Cortlandville and Solon from 2015-2022.

Schulte was arrested in May 2023 after Cortland County Sheriff’s deputies received a complaint from the victim. Schulte was originally charged with seven felonies, including predatory sexual assault against a child and two counts of rape.

“These cases are often the most challenging any D.A.’s Office faces due to late disclosures, lack of forensic evidence, or the reticence of victims to testify,” said Chief Assistant District Attorney Jessica Weyant. “This prosecution was successful because the victim reported the crime and the victim was courageous in coming forward to testify.”

The course of sexual conduct against a child charge carries a maximum 25-year penalty. In a statement from the District Attorney’s Office, officials say Schulte is “a first-time offender and this disposition, approved by the victim and family, ensures a prison consequence without the rigors of a trial.”

Schulte will additionally be subject to 10 years of post-release supervision.