A San Luis Obispo County Judge has handed down the maximum sentence to a former Atascadero barber convicted of sex crimes.
After motions for a new trial were denied earlier this week, Nathan Abate was sentenced Thursday to eight years and eight months in state prison.
In October, a San Luis Obispo County jury convicted the 36-year-old of three counts — rape by force or fear, rape by intoxication, and oral copulation of a minor.
"Your honor, I sit before you today with respect. I understand that the jury has found me guilty, and though I disagree with the verdict and intend to appeal, I respect their decision. I would like to express my deep remorse for the mistakes I made as a young man," Abate said as he began his first and only statement to the court.
Before Judge Frye handed down his sentence, Abate took time to recount how he has changed from the person he was when the crimes were committed.
He choked up as he spoke of his faith and his wife, who he says is his greatest supporter, and he reiterated sentiments his wife shared last week during impact statements that he is the sole provider for his family and supports his aging mother.
Despite his plea, Judge Michael Frye handed down the maximum sentence.
Judge Frye said his decision was based on a variety of factors. He acknowledged how long ago the crimes took place and that there is evidence Abate has moved forward with his life. However, he cited compelling testimony about the long-term effects on the victims, and he took into account the recommendation from parole which called for the maximum sentence.
"I am faced with two very opposing things," the judge said. "Two opposing ends at 15 years. What happens after 15 years? Mr. Abate moving forward with his life and the victims not."
Following the sentencing, District Attorney Dan Dow reflected on what Abate said.
"I'm disappointed that he really expressed no remorse, no heartfelt apology towards the victims, the people that he harmed in this case," Dow said. "And that's really my hope, is that Mr. Abate will show the community and show these victims specifically that he's sorry for what he did, that he acknowledges it was wrong and that it harmed these individuals, and that he somehow accepts responsibility for what he did."
During his statement, Abate expressed concern about having to register as a sex offender for life.
He also requested he serve his time locally, so his family can visit.
Abate is expected to be held at the California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo
He will make another court appearance on January 21 for a restitution status determination hearing.
