(LOOTPRESS) – Tazewell County Commonwealth’s Attorney Christopher Plaster announced that Howard Denver “Denny” Barton, 55, of Tazewell, Virginia, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for taking indecent liberties with a child while in a custodial relationship.
Sentencing and Conviction
On January 13, 2025, Judge Richard Patterson of the Tazewell County Circuit Court handed down the sentence following Barton’s August 19, 2024, guilty plea to 40 counts of indecent liberties. Since his plea, Barton had been held at Tazewell Regional Jail awaiting sentencing.
During the sentencing hearing, Commonwealth’s Attorney Chris Plaster presented evidence of Barton’s grooming and predatory behavior, as well as a victim impact statement that highlighted the devastating effects of Barton’s actions on his young victim. Plaster pushed for the maximum sentence, emphasizing the betrayal of trust that Barton committed.
Prosecutor’s Statement
“When we allow coaches access to our children to help them pursue their dreams, we trust them to guide and protect—not harm,” said Chris Plaster. “Denny Barton took advantage of that trust and betrayed his victim, their family, and our entire community. This type of betrayal will never be tolerated in Tazewell County, and I take my duty to protect our children very seriously.”
Law Enforcement Efforts
The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, led by Detective Michelle Conklin, spearheaded the investigation with support from the Richlands Police Department.
Plaster expressed gratitude to Sheriff Brian Hieatt and his department for their dedication to the case. He also acknowledged the Tazewell County Victim/Witness Assistance Program, April Morefield, the Care Center of Southwest Virginia, and Ultra Health for their roles in ensuring Barton’s conviction.
Case Conclusion
With Barton sentenced to four decades behind bars in the Virginia Department of Corrections, the prosecution hopes that this case sends a clear message that Tazewell County will not tolerate crimes against children. The case marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against child abuse and the protection of vulnerable members of the community.
