Ian Cleary, 32, has been sentenced to two to four years in jail in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, for sexually assaulting a woman 12 years ago and later sending her a disturbing message on Facebook that read, “So I raped you.”
The victim, then an 18-year-old university student, was attacked in her dormitory on the eve of Christmas break. Cleary had forced his way into her room, assaulted her, and fled the scene. Despite reporting the crime at the time, the case remained unresolved for over a decade.
In 2019, Cleary sent the victim the private message, claiming it was part of a rehabilitation program. The message, however, reopened old wounds and prompted the victim to push for legal action. Speaking in court, she said, “The system meant to protect me protected you instead. This isn’t just my story; this is the story of countless women.”
Senior Judge Kevin Hess described Cleary’s behavior as “horrifying,” but noted his admission of guilt and contrition. Cleary, who later worked for Tesla after completing a master’s degree, could have faced up to 10 years in prison. The victim’s lawyer said the sentence was “less than expected and certainly less than he deserves,” though there was relief the case concluded.
The woman emphasized the enduring impact of the assault: “Evidence was lost. Time passed. My life moved on, but the impact never went away, not for me, not for my family, not for anyone who had to watch this unfold again and again.”
