East Fork Justice Pro Tem Paul Gilbert refused Wednesday to reduce the $20,000 bail of a 26-year-old Gardnerville Ranchos man accused of lewdness with a child under age 14.
Attorney Derrick Lopez asked that his client, Michael Anthony Abbott, be released on house arrest.
"He lives locally, his kids and ex-wife live here. He's never been charged before. He knows that any failure to appear would only make matters worse," Lopez said.
Abbott was arrested April 2, accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 13-year-old girl.
He is charged with lewdness with a child under age 14 and luring a child under age 14.
According to court reports, Abbott contacted the girl through MySpace and developed a relationship where he met her on several occasions.
The girl's parents discovered the relationship and warned Abbott to cease because of her age. They contacted authorities after he continued to be involved with the girl, according to the sheriff's office.
Prosecutor Karen Dustman "strenuously opposed" any bail reduction.
"Conviction on these charges could mean life in prison. He made significant admissions which corroborate the victim's story. These are very serious charges," Dustman said.
Gilbert set Abbott's next court appearance for April 21.
