Another sexual assault, another slap on the wrist. It is a story that is becoming all too familiar.
HS tennis athlete, Nicholas Fifield was charged with felony sexual assault of a mentally ill woman and may walk away with only probation. The 18-year-old faced third-degree sex abuse of a person “suffering from a mental defect or incapacity”. The mental health aspect prohibits giving consent.
Before entering an Alford plea, which doesn’t admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence for a conviction, Fifield faced 10 years in prison for the attack that happened last December when he was only 17. He picked the woman up, with permission from her parents and group home staff, under the pretense of only taking her to the movies.
Instead, he took her to his home where he forced her to perform sexual acts despite her repeatedly telling him, “No.” The victim was saddled with PTSD, an alcohol-and-drug related birth defect, major depressive disorder and a language disorder.
Despite his pending charges, Fifield only faced a one-meet suspension from competition and was allowed to compete in the state tournament.
After a mental health evaluation, the teenager may walk away from the situation with just probation; a sentence the victim’s family agrees with. Polk County Attorney John Sarcone states:
It’s two people with a lot of issues between them. We are trying to resolve it in a way that’s good for all. Prison would not do this kid any good.
Fifield will be sentenced on October 12.
