Man indicted for child rape dating back to 2008

36-year-old Nicholas Howell has been charged with 23 felonies related to the sexual abuse of four children dating back as far as 2008.  All four were said to be known family acquaintances and some were under the age of 10 when the abuse occurred according to Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters.

"The incidents occurred in his residence in Colerain Township," Deters said. "After the sexual abuse, Howell would often buy their silence with money or gift cards."

One of the victims disclosed the abuse to an adult who then contacted the Colerain Township Police, and an investigation was launched.

He was arrested on September 9.

Howell was charged with 11 counts of rape, 11 counts of unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and one count of gross sexual imposition on Monday, September 21.

He is due to appear in court on October 2 for his arraignment.

"I am always saddened to comment on cases such as this, because it means that children were the victims of a sexual predator. I have said it before and will say it again, it is hard to understand how someone takes advantage of children. This case is especially disturbing given the fact that there are four victims and multiple incidents. My victim advocate and assistant prosecutor assigned to this case will do everything they can to help the victims through this difficult process and obtain the justice they deserve," Deters said.

Howell faces the possibility of multiple mandatory life sentences if convicted on all charges.  He remains in custody at the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $375,000 bond.