Somerset Kidnapper Pleads Guilty

CRIMES: KIDNAPPING

In a shocking turn of events, Lawrence R. Horner III, the 37-year-old resident of Windber, Pa., has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of kidnapping. The grim admission came from United States Attorney David J. Hickton today.

Horning, III appeared before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson and was formally charged with one count of kidnapping. According to the charges, on July 9, 2011, Horner abducted an individual known as ‘L.N.’ and transported them across state lines in the commission of the crime.

Judge Gibson has set a sentencing date for January 7, 2014, at 11 a.m. The defendant could face a life sentence, a fine of $250,000, or both. Sentencing will be determined based on the seriousness of the offense and any criminal history.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. The Richland Township Police Department and the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation were instrumental in the investigation that led to Horner’s prosecution.

As the grim saga of Horner’s crimes unfolds, residents of Somerset County wait with bated breath for the outcome. The plea represents a significant victory for law enforcement in their efforts to combat violent crime.