BAY MINETTE — A Bay Minette man was sentenced to 15 years in prison Sept. 25, after being convicted on two counts of first-degree sodomy involving a female under age 12.

Prior to sentencing, Bobby Edward Dewrell, 34, said he was “truly, deeply sorry,” and wanted to apologize to the victim and family.

“Every day, I regret what happened and wish it never happened,” Dewrell told Circuit Judge Charles Partin. “I hope the court can have mercy on me.”

“This is a most serious offense,” Partin replied. “The victim regrets it more.”

The two counts were based on a June 1996 incident in which Dewrell, a Bay Minette Fire Department volunteer for 12.5 years, performed oral sex on the child and ordered her to perform oral sex on him, according to court records.

Partin sentenced Dewrell to 15 years on each count which will be served concurrently.

Prior to sentencing, the victim’s mother said the child “acted out and was scared to go anywhere” after the encounter.

“During the trial, her grades were falling, she was wetting the bed and won’t sleep by herself,” the mother said.

Defense attorney Tanya Hallford told Partin there are no indications Dewrell has had sexual contact with a child before or since the incident. She also brought family members and friends to the stand to state they have no reservations leaving their children alone with Dewrell.

Theresa Alexander, his mother, told Partin she was unable to work due to physical injuries and needed Dewrell to do household chores and work to pay bills.

“I feel like he needs a second chance,” Alexander said. “He does everything for me. He has gotten real religious, doesn’t drink or do drugs. He regrets what he has done.

“He is my baby and I love and depend on him. He will never do anything like this again. If he does, you can lock me up. That’s how strongly I feel.”

Prosecutor Matt Simpson said Dewrell never admitted responsibility, violated a court  order by being around children under 18 while out on bond and was not a candidate for a split sentence and probation.

“He has taken this girl’s innocence,” Simpson told Partin. “He is not a candidate for probation. I am asking for consecutive life sentences on each count.”