By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post
A former Fort Hays State University student athlete was found guilty this week of sexually assaulting two women in 2019.
On Friday, Efe Osaghae, St. Louis, pleaded guilty in Ellis County District Court to two counts of aggravated sexual battery after reaching a plea agreement with the Ellis County Attorney’s office.
Osaghae, a former member of both the Fort Hays State men’s soccer team and wrestling team, initially was charged with five felony counts including rape and aggravated criminal sodomy after being accused of entering the on-campus residence of a 19-year-old woman on Dec. 8, 2018, and assaulting her.
During the investigation into the initial incident, a second victim was identified.
In exchange for a guilty plea to two counts of aggravated sexual battery, the state agreed to drop the rape, aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated burglary charges.
A conviction for aggravated sexual battery carries a prison sentence of between 31 and 136 months in prison.
Because Osaghae’s criminal history is expected to be the lowest possible level, 23rd District Judge Glenn Braun said during Friday’s hearing that Osaghae faces between 32 and 36 months in prison for each count.
Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson said in court filings that the state will be requesting a 68-month prison sentence.
Sentencing in the case is scheduled is expected to be set for later this spring.