Child Predator Sentenced to Life in Prison in Union County

Michel Brian Nelson (65), formerly of Richwood, Ohio, was sentenced to seven consecutive life terms in prison, including five terms of Life Without the Possibility of Parole and two terms of 25 years to Life, for repeatedly raping three young family members. Nelson began sexually abusing the victims when they were as young as 4 years old.

The case began in Delaware County after one victim disclosed the abuse. A joint investigation by the Delaware Police Department and Richwood Police Department revealed that multiple sexual assaults occurred in Union County. The case was referred to our office by the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office, and Nelson was indicted by the Union County Grand Jury on April 4, 2025. He was arrested and held on a $250,000 cash bond.

Nelson initially pleaded Not Guilty and Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity. After a court-ordered mental evaluation, he withdrew those pleas and pleaded Guilty to seven counts of Rape.

This sentence ensures he will never again walk free or harm another child. The message is clear: in Union County, we will protect children, pursue predators, and fight tirelessly to hold offenders accountable for the most horrific crimes.

This outcome was made possible through the dedicated efforts of law enforcement, victim advocates, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Child Assessment Center, and our office—standing together to protect the vulnerable and ensure their voices were heard.

(complete release from Union County Prosecutor’s Office)