Whatcom County man sentenced for sexual abuse of young girl in Ferndale
A Whatcom County man was sentenced to six months in jail with credit for time served, followed by a lifetime in community custody in Whatcom County Superior Court on Tuesday for the sexual abuse of a girl in Ferndale when she was between the ages of 3 and 9 years old.
Lawrence Scott Cauthorn, 56, was arrested in March 2024 after the victim, who was known to him, came forward about the abuse, which occurred more than five years earlier. Cauthorn posted bail the day following his first appearance.
Cauthorn pleaded guilty to multiple sex crimes on Jan. 28 and was taken back into jail custody.
While the victim did not provide an impact statement for Cauthorn’s pre-sentence investigation report or at his sentencing, her mother told the Department of Corrections that she has been struggling in school and with mental health issues. She said her daughter “carried a heavy load that was not fair to her.”
“The court sees you and recognizes the harm that has been brought on you and your family,” Judge Jennifer Slattery told the victim.
Cauthorn apologized for his actions at his sentencing. He said he has been participating in sexual deviancy treatment, and that the therapy has been helpful.
Slattery said Cauthorn’s remorse seemed genuine, and agreed to the recommended sentencing. Cauthorn will be required to register as a sex offender, and a no-contact order has been put in place. The option for restitution remains open.