Ripon Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Child Sexual Assault Charges, Facing 50 Years to Life

San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announces that Douglas McCourt pled guilty to multiple felony counts of child sexual assault and admitted prior strike convictions, resulting in a total sentence of 50 years to life in state prison.

McCourt entered guilty pleas to the following charges:

•  One count of oral copulation with a child under 10 years of age (Penal Code § 287(c)(2)(B)), with admission of two prior strikes, resulting in 25 years to life.

•  One count of lewd act upon a child under 14 years of age by force or fear (Penal Code § 288(b)(1)), with admission of two prior strikes, resulting in a fully consecutive term of 25 years to life.

•  One count of lewd act upon a child under 14 years of age by force or fear (Penal Code § 288(b)(1)), without admission of prior strikes, resulting in 8 years, to be served concurrently.

The case originated from a November 2024 report made to the San Bernardino Police Department, which was subsequently investigated by the Ripon Police Department. Through exhaustive investigative efforts, detectives uncovered critical evidence, including a USB drive containing videos of the offenses.

“Today, courage won. These survivors will never have to face their abuser in court, and a dangerous predator will be held fully accountable,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas. “I’m profoundly grateful to Deputy District Attorney Victor Bachand for his uncompromising prosecution, Detectives Nutt and West for their tireless pursuit of truth, and Victim Advocate Ana-Maria Raducanu for wrapping every survivor in the care they deserve. This outcome honors their strength and delivers the justice they deserve.”

McCourt has a prior conviction from 1988 for multiple counts of child sexual assault.

Formal sentencing is scheduled for January 12, 2026, in Department 8A before the Honorable Judge Hoyt.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting children and holding predators accountable.