A Plea "In the Blind" to 67 Counts of Possessing Child Sex Abuse Material

Conner Keinath, the Illinois man previously charged in Avoyelles Parish with dozens of offenses involving child sexual abuse material, has pleaded guilty to all 67 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.

Keinath entered the guilty pleas on Monday, August 3, before 12th Judicial District Court Judge Kerry Spruill.

The manner in which Keinath entered his pleas is uncommon. He entered what is commonly referred to as a “blind plea,” meaning he admitted his guilt to all 67 counts without an agreement with the prosecutor as to what sentence Judge Spruill will ultimately impose.

The State did not agree to recommend a particular sentence. The only concession made by prosecutor Jenny Donaghey was an agreement to dismiss two additional pending charges, both of which carried lesser potential sentencing ranges than the 67 offenses to which Keinath pleaded guilty.

Each count carries a potential sentence of five to 20 years imprisonment, leaving Keinath facing substantial potential prison time. The sentence ultimately imposed will be determined by Judge Spruill.

Sentencing is scheduled for November. An additional court proceeding is expected in October as part of the sentencing process. The proceeding will provide an opportunity for any victims who choose to participate to provide victim impact statements, address the effect of the offenses, and express their views regarding an appropriate sentence.

Keinath's privately retained defense attorneys, Chad Guillot of Marksville and Philip Robinson of Baton Rouge, are also expected to present evidence they believe supports a more lenient sentence. The defense may offer information concerning Keinath's background and character, including testimony from family members.

With Keinath's guilty pleas, the case has now moved beyond the question of whether he committed the offenses. Keinath has admitted his guilt to all 67 counts. The remaining issue before the district court is the punishment to be imposed.

Keinath has remained incarcerated since his arrest.