Harry Richardson, a man diagnosed with “pedophilic disorder,” has been committed to a Missouri mental health facility after serving multiple prison sentences for child sexual exploitation. The Sexually Violent Predator Unit successfully committed Richardson, 47, following a single-day bench trial in Ray County.

Despite being offered sex offender treatment multiple times while in prison, Richardson never completed them and made inappropriate comments to specialists. He engaged in online communication with individuals he believed were minors, leading to further criminal charges. Richardson has been convicted of sexual-related crimes at least three times since 1999, including child molestation and enticement of a child.

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office stated that Richardson will remain in a secure mental health facility for the treatment of dangerous sex offenders as a result of the recent verdict. He will also be under lifetime supervision with the Missouri Department of Corrections. The AG’s Office seeks civil commitment for sexual predators with a mental abnormality that makes them likely to commit predatory, sexually violent acts if not contained in a treatment facility.