PARIS — A 43 year-old Bethel man Tuesday pleaded not guilty to felony sexual assault charges involving an 8-year-old girl in 2008.

George Otis Hayes Jr. entered the plea during his arraignment in Oxford County Superior Court, where he faces two felony charges of gross sexual assault. In all, he faces a maximum of 40 years in prison and a $70,000 fine. 

According to a police complaint, Hayes had sexual contact with the girl on Christmas Day 2008.

He was arrested in April after the girl went to police.

Hayes was released on $100,000 secured real estate bail. According to the terms of his release, he can have no contact with persons under the age of 16. 

ccrosby@sunmediagroup.net 

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