Convicted child rapist Scott Bush sentenced to life in prison

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Convicted child rapist Scott Bush was sentenced to life in prison Friday.

Since the victims were younger than 12 years old at the time of the rapes, Bush faced a mandatory life sentence.

He made one last plea Friday and claimed he never committed the sexual abuse that led to rape charges and his conviction in January.

Bush said, "I'm innocent of these charges, Your Honor. I haven't done these things which have been egregiously stated against me."

The defense called two people before the sentencing, including Katherine Pitts, who once had an intimate relationship with Bush.

"He's a man of good character. I would have seen it," Pitts said.

Bush's son also defended him as his father looked on, wearing shackles and a blue jumpsuit.

"I am shocked. Obviously, I don't think it's right," said Bush's son.

Before the sentencing, the defense made a motion for a new trial and argued that one of the victims' school journals was never entered into evidence and could have changed the verdict, because she made no mention of the abuse.

Prosecutors disagreed and so did the judge who denied the motion.

Bush was a friend of the former Windermere police chief, Daniel Saylor, who was prosecuted for withholding evidence to protect Bush.

Saylor testified for the defense at Bush's trial.

Saylor was found guilty two years ago of tampering with evidence and official misconduct.

The victims in the case did not testify Friday, but they did after verdict was read and said they were ready to get on with their lives.

Bush's attorney vowed to appeal.

WFTV