Man who raped girlfriend’s daughters sent to prison

RENO -- A man has been sentenced to two life prison terms for raping his girlfriend's daughters in Reno while their mother coached them and supervised.

Michael Jones, 37, must serve at least 40 years in prison before being eligible for parole under the sentence imposed by Washoe District Judge Steven Kosach.

The girls' mother, Jackie Williams, received a similar sentence earlier.

"I can't imagine the emotional and psychological damage I have caused them," Jones said during Tuesday's sentencing hearing. "I hope they get treatment and can lead a successful life."

Reno police became aware of the abuse after abandoned journals were found written by the couple and the oldest daughter, who was 12. Investigators said the writings detailed the abuse of the girl and her 11-year-old sister in 2004.

Williams was living in a van with five children at the time, police said. All the children have been placed in foster care.

The couple was arrested last year. Both pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault on a child.

Jones, like Williams, said he was in foster care as a child after being emotionally, physically and sexually abused by relatives. Both also said they suffered from mental illness.