The man charged with stalking ESPN sports reporter Erin Andrews and shooting videos of her while she was naked has been sentenced to 2.5 years in federal prison.
Michael David Barrett, 48, pleaded guilty to one federal count of interstate stalking. In addition to the 30-month prison sentence, Barrett has also been ordered to pay Andrews $7,366 in restitution and a $5,000 fine.
Barrett admitted in court that on at least three occasions he followed Andrews to the hotel she was staying out, rented the room next to her, and created peepholes so he could film her while she was naked. He shot two separate videos of Andrews, posted them online, and tried to sell them to celebrity gossip sites.
Barrett, who allegedly victimized 16 other women the same way he victimized Andrews, will begin serving his prison sentence on May 3.
Andrews was happy that Barrett received the maximum prison sentence for the crime, but hoped he would begin serving his sentence immediately. She also hoped to receive $335,000 in restitution instead of $7,366.
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In the wake of a criminal arrest, it's important to make every effort to ensure your rights and best interests are protected. When faced with charges for a sex crime or federal offense like interstate stalking, your first priority should be contacting an experienced criminal defense lawyer to help you fight your charges. If your case goes to trial and you're found guilty, your sentence is likely to include incarceration is state or federal prison, heavy fines, restitution to the victim, probation, and more.
At Okabe & Haushalter, we offer aggressive, dedicated, and driven representation to people throughout Los Angeles and South Bay who have been accused or charged with a crime. If you'd like to learn more about our legal services and experience, contact the office today at (310) 543-7708 to arrange a consultation with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at our firm.