Story perspectives

Man Pleads Guilty to Decades-Old Child Abuse Case

10/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Robert Morris, 64, pleaded guilty to five counts of lewd acts with a child involving Cindy Clemishire, 12, in the 1980s.
Abuse began December 1982 and lasted four years.
Plea imposes 10-year suspended sentence, six months served, and sex-offender registration.
Restitution $250,000; Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond condemned the actions; Clemishire hopes others come forward to advocate stronger protections.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Congress passed the Child Protection Act in 1982, establishing federal guidelines for child abuse prevention and prompting states like Oklahoma to adopt stricter laws. The recent plea deal for Robert Morris, involving $250,000 restitution, underscores ongoing challenges in addressing historical child abuse cases, as survivors like Cindy Clemishire continue to seek justice decades later, highlighting the need for stronger protections against exploitation.

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Story summary

Robert Morris, 64, pleaded guilty to five counts of lewd acts with a child involving Cindy Clemishire, 12, in the 1980s.
Abuse began December 1982 and lasted four years.
Plea imposes 10-year suspended sentence, six months served, and sex-offender registration.
Restitution $250,000; Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond condemned the actions; Clemishire hopes others come forward to advocate stronger protections.

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