PONCHATOULA - A man was sentenced to 99 years in the Department of Corrections over three years after he was arrested for first-degree rape charges which were later changed to charges for aggravated crimes against nature.

Malcolm Chester was 32 at the time of his arrest for first-degree rape charges and a slew of warrants from the city of Ponchatoula. Deputies handled the sex crime investigation on behalf of city police investigators because Chester's relative works for the police department, Chief Bry Layrisson said.

Chester was booked on the sex crime charge after a teenager reported being assaulted by Chester. The child reported the incident to a school guidance counselor who notified authorities.

A jury found him guilty of the charges in October 2022 and he was sentenced to 99 years in the Department of Corrections on Jan. 9. According to the 21st Judicial District, at least 25 years will be served without benefits, and he will be given credit for time served.