Osceola man charged with sexual abuse

An Osceola man was charged with third degree sexual abuse after babysitting three minors.

According to a report, Michael Lourens, 22, allegedly had sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old female while he was babysitting her and her two brothers.

If convicted of the Class C felony, Lourens could face up to a 10-year prison sentence and will have to register as a sexual offender for at least 10 years.

Clarke County Attorney Ron Wheeler said the law stipulates that a 14-year-old can have consensual sex with someone who is no more than four years older than the minor. Lourens is eight years older than the minor.

The incident allegedly happened sometime between Jan. 17 and 21 in the 300 block of South Court Street.

In affidavit, Lourens admitted to having sexual intercourse with the minor.

Lourens is being held on a $10,000 bond.