BREAKING UPDATE: Trans-identified male sent to Illinois women’s prison to serve 87-year sentence for child grooming, sexual assault of a minor

A trans-identifying man from Bloomington, Ill., was sentenced to 87 years in prison after admitting to child grooming and two counts of sexual assault against a victim under the age of 13. Michelle Blessent, formerly known as James, received a sentence of 42 years for each count of predatory criminal sexual assault. Additionally, he was sentenced to three years for the count of grooming. The sentences will run consecutively, meaning Blessent will serve a total of 87 years.

"The men and women of the Bloomington Police Department strive to hold violent offenders accountable through diligent and effective investigations," said Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington in a statement, according to WGLT. "The unfortunate victims in these cases deserve the best possible outcomes, and I pray the deliverance of justice helps with the healing process."

Under Illinois sentencing laws, 85 percent of sentences related to criminal sexual assault must be served, making Blessent ineligible for parole until 2095. Blessent was arrested in April 2023. Upon arrest, Blessent, who identifies as transgender, attempted to argue that he could not have committed these crimes because his cross-sex hormones affected his ability to maintain an erection.

Local Illinois outlet WMBD reported on the incident, referring to Blessent as a “Bloomington woman” and using “she” pronouns. Their coverage did not mention that Blessent identifies as transgender or that he has male genitalia. Additionally, leftists online criticized the Bloomington Police for allowing social media posts relating to the case to have “transphobic” comments posted in response to the incident.