EAST BROOKFIELD, Mass. -- A former Massachusetts man authorities say moved to Europe in 1996 without permission while on probation for a child assault conviction has been ordered by a judge to spend two years behind bars.
Paul Arcouette, formerly of Spencer, was convicted in 1995 of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14.
While on probation, the now 53-year-old Arcouette asked the court for permission to take a job in Germany and live with his brother.
The request was denied on May 1, 1996, but authorities say he boarded a plane for Germany that day.
An arrest warrant was issued and he was apprehended at a U.S. airport last month.
The Telegram & Gazette of Worcester reports that Arcouette's lawyer asked for leniency in court Tuesday and said he has reunited with family.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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