BOONE COUNTY, Ky.  (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A former church music director in Boone County was sentenced this week to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a victim who was a teenager at the time. The victim, the defendant, and family members on both sides addressed the court during Tuesday’s se ntencing hearing. “He sunk his teeth and claws into me, but now someone where he is going is going to look forward to sink their claws into his depressing, decrepit body,” said Timmy Goodman, a sexual abuse survivor. Goodman, now 20, told the court the abuse went on for years and said he wanted to speak out for other young survivors. “I’m speaking about years and years of abuse on a daily basis,” Goodman said. The man convicted in the case, Michael Howard, sat just feet away in the courtroom. Howard served as the music director at the church Goodman’s family attended and also employed Goodman at his furniture store. Judge James Schrand of the Boone County Court of Common Pleas ordered the sentence to be served consecutively. “The counts will run consecutive, so you’ll have one sentence of 15 years and will be required to register as a sex offender for life,” Schrand said. Boone County deputies arrested Howard in January 2025 following allegations that the abuse began when Goodman was 15 years old. Howard’s attorney told the court he had never had a client express more remorse, and Howard spoke for nearly six minutes during the hearing. “I’m a man that stands here needing forgiveness,” Howard said. Howard acknowledged wrongdoing but did not offer a direct apology. “At some point, I became arrogant and thought that I could preach and sing what I believe, and I did believe it, and still be involved in actions that are grossly contrary to what I believe,” he said. Several people spoke in support of Howard, including his wife and mother. “Michael’s character is defined by his generosity, his humility and unwavering commitment to those he loves,” said Molly Howard, his wife. “Please allow Michael to pick up the broken pieces and to begin to put his life and his family back together,” said Sheila Howard, his mother. Goodman was also supported in court by his family. “We believe that God will use Timmy’s story to help educate others on ways to prevent grooming and sexual abuse,” said Julia Goodman, his mother. “I’m sorry that Timmy faced this evil, and we know that the Lord will carry him through. Thank you,” said Tim Goodman, his father. SEO tags Meta description Categories: Featured, Local News, News, State News Tags: Boone County court, Boone County sentencing, church abuse case, Northern Kentucky news, sex offender sentencing, sexual abuse survivor ...read more read less