Hutchinson Man Receives Life Sentence for Child Sexual Abuse Convictions
June 13, 2025
A 39-year-old Hutchinson man was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison plus 27.5 years for sexually abusing two underage girls in separate incidents.
Wayne Willard was found guilty April 18 of rape and aggravated indecent liberties with a 12-year-old victim, as well as forcible rape of a 15-year-old. Reno County District Court Judge followed mandatory sentencing guidelines under Jessica's Law, imposing a life sentence with no possibility of parole for 40 years for crimes involving the younger victim.
Following completion of the life sentence, Willard must serve an additional 27.5 years for the rape of the 15-year-old. The judge designated him a "persistent sex offender" in connection with that conviction, and Willard will not receive credit for any time previously served.
The Reno County Sheriff's Department conducted the investigation. Senior Assistant District Attorney Kimberly Rodebaugh and Assistant District Attorney Bach Hang prosecuted the case, while defense attorney Mark Sevart of Wichita represented Willard.
Jessica's Law, enacted in Kansas in 2006, establishes mandatory minimum sentences for certain sex crimes against children, including life imprisonment for the most serious offenses involving victims under age 14.
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