ZANESVILLE — A Lancaster man has been sentenced to 44 years in prison after being convicted of sexually assaulting three minors in Muskingum County.
Following a three-day trial earlier this year, a jury found Cody Friend guilty on 12 counts, including 11 counts of rape (first-degree felonies) and one count of gross sexual imposition (a third-degree felony). The abuse occurred between 2003 and 2011 at various residences in Muskingum County.
All three victims were under 18 at the time. They came forward in 2024, more than a decade after the assaults, prompting a full investigation. Jurors deliberated for about eight hours before convicting Friend on nearly all counts.
During sentencing, survivors shared the lasting trauma of the abuse but also expressed relief and gratitude for justice. One victim said the process restored her faith in the judicial system:
“I received support, understanding, and most importantly justice… I finally feel free.”
Another said the case “lifted a huge weight” from her chest, while the third said she was initially afraid to speak but grateful she did.
Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch praised the survivors’ courage in reliving painful memories on the stand.
“Cases involving delayed disclosure of childhood sexual abuse are some of the most difficult to prosecute,” Welch said. “These individuals not only spoke their truth—they ensured this predator can never harm another child.”
Friend, now officially sentenced, must also register as a Tier III sex offender for life, reporting to law enforcement every 90 days after release.
The case was prosecuted by Ron Welch and Assistant Prosecutor Amy Otto, with Friend represented by attorney Scott Wood of Lancaster.
