A Bothell man who participated in videotaping teenagers having sex will get a chance to prove he’s eligible for a special sentencing alternative that would allow him to get treatment and keep him out of prison.
Deputy Snohomish County prosecutor Janice Albert said she will recommend against anything but prison for David Ernest Hill, 34, who in May was convicted of six criminal charges involving the videotape.
Hill appeared in Superior Court on Friday with a new lawyer, Anna Goykhman of Everett, who asked Judge Kenneth Cowsert to give Hill a chance to avoid prison.
Under the sentencing alternative, Hill would have to serve six months in the county jail, then undergo treatment and follow conditions of release.
Without the special sentence, he faces up to 10 years in prison.
Both Hill and his former girlfriend, Michelle Lynne Houser, also 34, were convicted of participating in the July 2004 incident at her home in Bothell. Houser pleaded guilty to three charges of child molestation and sexual exploitation of a minor. She was sentenced to more than seven years behind bars.
In May, Cowsert found Hill guilty of the six counts, which involved videotaping three teenagers – including Houser’s 13-year-old son and her 17-year-old daughter – engaged in sex acts.
The videotape was introduced as evidence, and Cowsert said he was required to watch it. In finding Hill guilty, he called the tape “absolutely appalling.”
Hill was convicted of second-degree child molestation, three counts of sexual exploitation of minors, supplying liquor to minors and possessing child pornography (for having the tape in his possession).
Goykhman declined comment.
Albert said there has to be a benefit to the community for someone to receive a special sentencing alternative, and she doesn’t think society would be served by releasing Hill.
“Anyone who would do this to children, make them come in and testify and watch the videotape, is not a good candidate” for the special sentencing, Albert said.
Hill will undergo an evaluation and is scheduled to return before Cowsert Sept. 8 for his decision.
Reporter Jim Haley: 425-339-3447 or haley@heraldnet.com.
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