Blair Root House, 63, of Towaoc, has sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of sexual abuse against two children below the age of 12, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Colorado announced Thursday.

The offenses occurred while the children were in his care at his home in Towaoc, a news release said.

“Sexual offenses against children create harms that last a lifetime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Matt Kirsch. “While we can’t undo the harm and pain of these crimes, we have ensured that Mr. House will harm no more children while he is in federal prison.”

U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Blackburn sentenced Blair Root House on Oct. 5, 2021, for one count of aggravated sexual abuse by force in Indian Country and one count of abusive sexual contact of a child in Indian County. The crimes took place between Jan. 1, 2006, and Dec. 31, 2008.

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Josh Player handled the prosecution.