(Oconee County, SC). On Monday, February 22, jury selection was completed and the videotaped confession of Michael Edward Burdette was admitted by Judge R. Lawton McIntosh. As prosecutors David Wagner and Lindsey Simmons prepared to begin the state’s case this morning, the defendant pled guilty to Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor, 1st Degree. Judge McIntosh sentenced Burdette to 25 years.
Between June 1, 2010 and January 1, 2011, Burdette sexually abused a nine year old family member multiple times while in his home. The child disclosed the abuse to a parent in February 2015 who immediately reported to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office. Burdette admitted the sexual abuse to law enforcement during a videotaped interview.
“Sexual abuse is a trauma that no one should have to endure. It is especially traumatic when it occurs at a young age at the hands of a trusted family member,” stated Solicitor Chrissy Adams. “Thanks to the courage of this young girl, the support of her family and the excellent work of Oconee County Sheriff’s Office and Assistant Solicitor Lindsey Simmons and Deputy Solicitor David Wagner, sixty-four year old Michael Edward Burdette will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison.”