BURNET COUNTY, Texas — A 63-year-old man from Burnet has been sentenced to 99 years in prison for failing to register as a sex offender. The man, Aubrey Hart, had prior felony convictions for rape, forgery, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and bail jumping. The jury convicted him of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender after evidence was presented during the trial.

According to a press release from Burnet County, officers responded to an allegation against Hart at his residence in Burnet in February 2023. Following his arrest, Hart fled the county after a parole warrant was issued, ultimately being found in St. Louis where he was using an alias.

The release also stated that during the trial, jurors were informed of Hart’s prior conviction for sexual assault, which required him to register as a sex offender. Witnesses called by the state told the jurors that Hart had multiple opportunities to report his changes in address but instead chose to remain in hiding.

Assistant District Attorney Tiffany Clark emphasized the significance of the jury’s decision, stating that it sends a clear message to habitual offenders and helps protect the community from individuals like Hart. District Attorney Sonny McAfee also emphasized the commitment of the office to working with agencies to bring justice to sex offenders and ensure the safety of the community.

The case of Aubrey Hart serves as a reminder of the legal obligations of sex offenders to report their changes in address to authorities. The jury’s decision reflects the determination of Burnet County to hold offenders accountable and prevent them from attempting to evade the law.

Aubrey Hart’s failure to register as a sex offender led to a 99-year prison sentence after a jury convicted him. The case underscores the importance of adhering to the legal requirements for sex offenders and the commitment of law enforcement to protect communities from habitual offenders.