A man from Rochester has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after confessing to the sexual assault of a 5-year-old child. At 19 years of age, Austin Anthony Russ faced charges in April 2024 with two counts of criminal sexual conduct involving a minor. In December 2024, he entered a guilty plea to one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, acknowledging that the presumptive sentence ranged from 12 to 14 years. Following this plea, the second charge was dismissed. An Olmsted County judge imposed a further 10 years of probation to follow the prison term.
Russ was credited with 375 days for time already served. Documentation from the criminal complaint indicated that Russ initially denied the child’s allegations of assault. However, when confronted by another individual, he ultimately admitted to the offense, stating, “Whatever she says, I did it.”
The incident occurred on April 7, 2024, when Russ visited the girl’s home in northwest Rochester. He was reportedly intoxicated at the time and confessed to the assault, later instructing the child to keep the incident a secret. Russ provided a statement to law enforcement on the same day, confirming the assault as detailed in the complaint.
For those affected by sexual exploitation, a 24-hour crisis line is available at 507-289-0636, offering access to support and guidance.