WEST CHESTER, PA — Lucino Ochoa-Mena, 41, of West Chester, has been sentenced to 40–80 years in prison for the repeated sexual abuse of a child over a nine-year period. The abuse began when the victim was just five years old and continued until she was fourteen.
The sentencing, handed down by the Honorable Judge Patrick Carmody on January 10, follows Ochoa-Mena’s conviction in June 2024 on fourteen criminal charges. These charges included two counts of child rape, and the verdict was reached after a four-day trial.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe acknowledged the victim’s extraordinary bravery in coming forward. “Thanks to the courage of a child and great work by investigators, this dangerous predator received a de facto life sentence,” he stated.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Ochoa-Mena repeatedly assaulted the child whenever they were alone. The abuse spanned nearly a decade, causing significant and long-lasting harm to the victim.
West Chester Police Chief Joshua Lee emphasized the department’s dedication to protecting the community, particularly vulnerable victims. “We are deeply committed to seeking justice and accountability for all of those who live in and visit West Chester. In cases involving child victims, we are particularly mindful of how impactful the process can be,” he said.
At sentencing, Judge Carmody praised the courage of the victim, whose testimony was instrumental in securing the conviction. Prosecutors and investigators expressed hope that the sentence would bring some measure of justice and healing to the survivor.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Zachary Yurick, with an investigation conducted by the West Chester Police Department in collaboration with Chester County Detectives. Authorities urge anyone with concerns about the safety of a child to contact 911 or the ChildLine hotline at 1-800-932-0313.
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