Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - A Sparta, Wisconsin man has been sentenced to just under 3 ½ years in prison for a rape that occurred in Rochester during the Olmsted County Fair four years ago.

57-year-old Robert Viner earlier admitted to a 3rd degree criminal sexual conduct charge using a Norgaard plea, which means he admits guilt but doesn’t remember his actions due to alcohol or drug use.

Investigators used DNA evidence to bring charges against Viner last year. He was staying in a camper on the fairgrounds during the 2012 County Fair when a woman walking home from work was attacked near the intersection of 16th street and 3rd avenue southeast.

The victim told police she was grabbed from behind and dragged by her ankles to a grassy area where she was raped while her attacker choked her and prevented her from screaming. She also told police the rapist told her, “Thank you sweetheart. I’ll see you again” before he left.  

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