Fernandes was found guilty last month after pleading no contest to two counts of unlawful restraint - both are felonies - and two counts of fourth-degree sexual assault. He was sentenced on Friday to a year suspended prison sentence and three years of probation. A mistrial was declared two years ago when the jury became deadlocked after five days of deliberations. Fernandes was arrested three years ago after two female employees claimed he sexually assaulted them inside the restaurant a year earlier.
Several of the probation requirements are also very restrictive, she added, noting that Fernandes will not be allowed to have any unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18, including relatives, during his probation.
Attorney Gene Zingaro, who represents Fernandes, said he also felt the resolution to the case was appropriate. The victim said in court that she continues to feel guilt for not coming forward sooner and possibly preventing Fernandes from sexually assaulting a friend of hers. He is without a doubt a sexual predator and he still puts everyone at risk.
The woman said she will continue to advocate for victims of sexual assault. Fernandes declined to speak on his own behalf during the sentencing hearing.
Sex assault victim says Bethel restaurant owner deserved prison. Connect with the definitive source for global and local news. The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
