Joseph Norman Jr., a 31-year-old man from Mardela Springs, Maryland, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for sexually abusing a minor. Norman pleaded guilty on June 6 to charges of sexual abuse of a minor, two counts of third-degree sexual offense, and manufacturing child pornography. The incident occurred in January when Norman, responsible for the minor’s care, sexually abused them. He also recorded one of the acts with a cellphone.
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of rape on January 23, 2023, at a residence in Mardela Springs. The investigation revealed that Norman had forced the juvenile to engage in oral sex multiple times. Additionally, Norman had taken photographs of the minor during one of the sexual acts. On February 6, he was indicted by a Wicomico County grand jury on 32 charges.
State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes emphasized the devastating impact of child abuse and the importance of prosecuting such cases. Norman’s sentencing was held pending a pre-sentence investigation and mental health assessment. He has been sentenced to 35 years of incarceration, followed by five years of supervised probation. Norman could face an additional 20 years in prison if he violates his probation. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
