Chattanooga attorney reaches deal in child sex crime case, faces 15 to 30 years in prison | Chattanooga Times Free Press

Chattanooga attorney Patrick Bryant Hawley reached a plea deal for sexual exploitation of a minor, potentially facing 15 to 30 years in prison. The plea agreement allows prosecutors to dismiss six additional charges, including child pornography and coercion. Hawley coerced a 14-year-old Pennsylvania girl into sexually explicit conduct and sent her images of himself engaging in sexual acts. He is expected to register as a sex offender and pay restitution for counseling and other expenses incurred by the victim. His attorney stated that a change of plea hearing is forthcoming but has not yet been scheduled.

Hawley is currently in U. S. Marshals Service custody and was previously suspended from practicing law due to the case. A conviction for such serious crimes may lead to disbarment under Tennessee law.