VALPARAISO, Ind. (AP) — A former town councilman and deputy prosecutor turned himself in to begin serving a one-year term for sexually assaulting a woman who is confined to a wheelchair.

Michael B. Haughee was convicted Jan. 25 of sexual battery, criminal confinement and interference with the reporting of a crime.

Porter County Judge Mary Harper sentenced him Thursday and he surrendered at the Porter County Jail on Monday.

Haughee is a former Lake County deputy prosecutor and Hebron Town Council president. When his sentence is complete, he will have to register as a sex offender.

A disabled Hebron woman said Haughee showed up at her apartment Feb. 18, 2006, and forced a kiss on her, began groping her chest and prevented her from calling for help.

Haughee maintained his innocence. He said the jury was tired and confused when it reached its verdict.

Posted 3/11/2008