Sheridan man scheduled for change of plea to first degree sexual abuse

SHERIDAN (WNE) — A Sheridan man is being charged with two counts of first degree sexual abuse of a minor. 

A change of plea hearing for Marshall McLain, 44, is scheduled for July 15. McLain originally pleaded not guilty to both counts of sexual abuse of a minor during his arraignment on April 3.

If McLain changes his plea to guilty on both counts, the State will recommend a sentence of 30 to 50 years in prison that runs concurrently.

One count of sexual abuse of a minor in the first degree is a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 50 years, a maximum fine of $10,000 or both.

The plea agreement between defense and the state does not bind the court, and the judge could reject the agreement. If McLain pleads guilty and the judge rejects the agreement, McLain may not withdraw his plea and will go to trial on the basis that the plea agreement was rejected.

If convicted, McLain could face 100 years in prison on both counts.

According to court documents, on Feb. 24 law enforcement was informed that an 11-year-old female disclosed having sex with McLain for the last five to six years, approximately 100 times during that time span and most recently on Feb. 21 and 22.

McLain told law enforcement that he had sex with the victim five to eight times over the last “couple” of years. McLain stated he did not have an explanation for why he had sex with the minor and was arrested for first degree sexual abuse of a minor.

This story was published on July 9, 2025.