A man convicted of sexually assaulting a woman while in college and later sending a disturbing Facebook message referencing the assault has been sentenced to two to four years in prison. Ian Cleary, 32, was brought back to Pennsylvania from France after being on the run for over a decade following the incident at Gettysburg College. Despite facing a maximum sentence of 10 years, Cleary received a reduced sentence below state guidelines due to factors such as his guilty plea, remorse, and history of mental illness.
Cleary confessed to sending the incriminating messages in 2021 as part of a personal atonement effort through a 12-step program. The victim, Shannon Keeler, expressed how the messages reopened old wounds and criticized the justice system for its handling of her case. Keeler, who bravely pursued charges for years, highlighted the challenges faced by many women in similar situations.
During the sentencing, Keeler’s attorney expressed some disappointment in the leniency of the sentence but acknowledged the relief of finally concluding the case. The judge, Senior Judge Kevin Hess, emphasized the gravity of the crime and the impact it had on the victim, stressing the importance of accountability in such cases.
In addition to his prison term, Cleary will be required to register as a sex offender. Following the assault, Cleary left Gettysburg, completed his education in California, and worked for Tesla before relocating abroad. Keeler’s persistence in seeking justice ultimately led to Cleary’s arrest in France on an unrelated charge.
Keeler’s determination to pursue accountability after years of setbacks was commended, despite challenges such as lost evidence and delays in prosecution. Her powerful impact statement underscored the enduring impact of the assault on her life and the need for better support for survivors of sexual violence.
