Prineville caregiver sentenced to 75 months for child abuse

A 36-year-old Prineville man who was a young child’s caregiver was sentenced Thursday to more than six years in prison for sexually abusing the child, Crook County District Attorney Wade Whiting said.

Randy Allen Lang was ordered to serve 75 months by Circuit Judge Annette Hillman on a first-sex sexual abuse conviction.

The sentence, the result of a negotiated plea agreement, includes no eligibility for any form of early release from custody, a provision for 10 years of supervision and registration as a sex offender.

Under Oregon law, certain professions are required to make reports if they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect of a child. These mandated reporters are crucial in notifying law enforcement and child protective services of potential issues in order to better protect our children, Whiting said.

Last Dec. 7, the state Department of Human Services received a report from a mandated reporter that had suspected sexual abuse of a young child, based upon troubling disclosures made during a routine medical appointment. The child had disclosed inappropriate touching by Lang, who Whiting said was “in a caregiver relationship with the child.”

Upon receiving that report, the Prineville Police Department and DHS immediately made contact with the family to ensure Lang no longer had access to the victim or other young children. A thorough investigation ensued and Lang was arrested shortly thereafter.

During his sentencing, Lang admitted he had touched the young child in a sexual manner and expressed his sorrow for the pain he has caused both the victim and his own family, Whiting said.

“While mandated reporters are required by law to make these reports, all citizens have a responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves,” Whiting said in a news release announcing the sentene.

Members of the general public may also report suspected abuse and neglect to the Department of Human Services toll-free number at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

The case was prosecuted by Whiting and Lang was represented by attorney Jennifer Kimble.