Somerset Co., PA (WJAC) — Former Somerset County District Attorney Jeff Thomas was sentenced Thursday to serve 27 to 84 months in prison following his assault conviction earlier this year.

Thomas is also required to register as a Tier 1 sex offender for 15 years.

In March, a jury returned a split verdict in Thomas' trial after finding him not guilty on the most serious charges that he faced.

The jury did, however, find him guilty on six charges including strangulation (in conjunction with sexual violence), criminal trespass, unlawful restraint, indecent assault without consent, false imprisonment, and one count of simple assault.

During Thursday's hearing, Thomas was given credit for 157 days of time served and he was also ordered to pay a $1,900 fine.

Several individuals also spoke at the sentencing hearing, including Thomas and the victim.

The victim told the court that Thomas "stole her independence," while Thomas asked the judge for leniency in his sentencing.

"Every day away from them (his family) is a day I’ll never get back,” Thomas said.

Two of Thomas' family members, including his wife Amy, also spoke at the hearing and said that the case has caused a "burden" on his family.

“My goal, my charge at this point is to put you in the best position to help bring out the best Jeff Thomas,” Judge Timothy Creany said in response.

Thomas' defense recommended that he serve his sentence at either SCI Laurel Highlands or SCI Mercer.

Thomas will be held at the Cambria County Prison until a housing location has been determined.

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