Brandon Man Enters Alford Plea in Child Sexual Assault Case

A Brandon man accused of sexually assaulting a child has entered an Alford plea to avoid a retrial scheduled for next week. 57-year old Joseph Doehler does not admit guilt, but knows the evidence against him could end in a conviction for third degree sexual assault of a child. He was sentenced to three years in prison, but was credited for the three years already served – meaning he won’t serve any additional time. 

Doehler was originally sentenced to twenty years for repeated sexual assault of a 13-year old girl, but was released in May after a judge vacated the conviction and granted him a new jury trial – citing the teen’s reputation for being untruthful in previously reported abuse cases and treatment for mental health issues. There was also no physical evidence against Doehler.