Hite Gets 15 Years For Child Abuse Charges

An Amarillo Man will serve the next 15 years behind bars for several child abuse charges.

The Randall County District Attorney, says Matthew Hite pled guilty to the charges on October 16th and received a sentence of 15 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Officials say the maximum punishment he could have received was 20 years in prison.

The incidents took place from 2000 through 2010 and involved three separate victims who struggled to come forward due to shame, guilt, embarrassment, and fear of not being believed when they were 16 and 17 years old.

During the investigation, numerous other victims and witnesses provided information that Hite had improper contact and communication with underage children, totaling more than 20 other victims. These victims faced grooming, sexual propositioning, and other behaviors.

Hite reportedly had access to children through numerous community organizations that he joined and will not be eligible for parole until he serves at least half his sentence.

 He is also required to register as a sex offender for life.