Opinion ID: 4526506
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: facts

Text: Lierman was charged by information with three counts of first degree sexual assault of a child, three counts of third degree sexual assault of a child, and four counts of child abuse. Though further details of these charges will be discussed in more detail below, it is sufficient to note here that B.L. alleged this sexual abuse began in approximately 2010. At that time, Lierman was on bond awaiting trial on charges that he sexually abused B.L.’s biological sister, A.L., who was another of - 292 - Nebraska Supreme Court Advance Sheets 305 Nebraska Reports STATE v. LIERMAN Cite as 305 Neb. 289 Lierman’s adopted daughters. Lierman was eventually acquitted by a jury of the charges involving A.L. B.L.’s allegations first came to light on or about February 12, 2015. On February 7, B.L. ingested an unknown number of pills in an attempted suicide and was taken to a hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. During a counseling session on February 12, B.L. made statements suggesting that Lierman had been sexually abusing her. An interview at a child advocacy center was scheduled, at which time B.L. made further allegations against Lierman, including that he would make her model bras for him and that he would watch her while she was showering. B.L. was placed in foster care while the matter was investigated. In July 2015, B.L. disclosed that from the ages of 12 to 14, she was subject to digital and penile penetration by Lierman on more than one occasion, primarily while at the family’s home in Neligh, Nebraska. Lierman was ultimately charged with the allegations set forth above. Various pretrial hearings were held, details of which will be noted below as relevant. After a jury trial, Lierman was found guilty of all charges. He appeals.