Posted: Aug 26, 2010 10:40 AM
Updated: Aug 26, 2010 5:34 PM
A former Lexington DJ who pleaded guilty and was sentenced on child pornography charges was granted shock probation in the case Thursday.
Roy D. Baldridge, who was known as known as Dusty Dan on country radio station 98.1 The Bull, was four months into his five-year sentence.
Baldridge pleaded guilty to two child pornography charges after police found more than 500 explicit images of young boys in his Malibu Drive home last October. As part of Baldridge's plea deal, prosecutors dropped two additional charges. He was sentenced to five years in prison and he is required to register as a sex offender.
Last April, Baldridge's attorney told the court severe depression led his client to escape in those images. Baldridge told the court the arrest was a blessing.
"For me it was the best thing that ever happened. It was something I called out to God for, and be careful what you ask for, he answers in interesting ways," he said.
Fayette County Circuit Judge James Ishmael granted Baldridge shock probation. The five-year probated sentence comes with several treatment conditions, including Baldrige completing a sex and alcohol addiction program, continuing his church recovery group, and Baldridge is not allowed to own or have access to a computer.
Ismael told Baldrigde he "was not cutting him a break because he is a radio personality." The judge said "treatment and accountability" is more fitting Baldridge, since "investigator found no evidence Baldridge had any physical contact with children."
Baldridge will be returned to a Meade County jail, where he will be processed for release.
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