Man sentenced to 17 years after sexually assaulting girl

A 39-year-old man will spend the next 17 years behind bars after he convinced a 12-year-old girl they were in a relationship.

Vincent Allegar sexually assaulted the girl while living with her family.

Today in court was the first time the victim's family saw Allegar since he moved out of their home.

Allegar entered an Alford plea which means he pleaded guilty to charges of sex with the girl, but he did not admit guilt.

Allegar cursed under his breath when the judge asked if he had anything to say before sentencing.

He spoke with his attorney, placed his hands to his head like his was praying and answered, "No sir."

Prosecutors said Allegar fell on hard times and sis friends let him live with them in Kings Mountain over the summer.

That was when they learned he had a sexual relationship with their 12-year-old daughter.

"The defendant would say things like 'I love you. Would you marry me,'" said Megan Rhoden, assistant district attorney.

After Allegar moved out, the parents asked the girl about the constant calls and texts that still continued between the two.

Police had the girl send Allegar a text message to confirm the relationship.

"She asked 'Why did you have sex with me?' He indicated, 'You know it takes two.'" Rhoden said.

Police said Allegar confessed during a recorded interview.

The girl's father spoke in court.

"Never thought for once that this would ever happen," he said. "He just betrays my trust and does this to my daughter."