Former NFL safety Darren Sharper sentenced to 20 years in Louisiana rape case

After being sentenced by a federal judge to 18 years and four months in prison in a drug and rape case involving victims in four states, former NFL safety Darren Sharper was a handed a 20-year prison sentence by a Louisiana judge on Thursday.

After being sentenced by a federal judge to 18 years and four months in prison in a drug and rape case involving victims in four states, former NFL safety Darren Sharper was a handed a 20-year prison sentence by a Louisiana judge on Thursday.

Judge Karen Herman insisted that the sentencing for two counts of forcible rape and one count of simple rape was lenient or a person whose behaviors has been “such an epic disappointment.”

“I find this sentence to be woefully inadequate,” Herman said in the court.

Sharper pleaded guilty in state and federal courts in New Orleans, and pleased guilty or no contest to similar charges in Arizona, California and Nevada.

U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo previously rejected an plea deal agreement that would have sent Sharper to prison for just nine years.

Sharper played 14 seasons in the NFL with the Packers, Vikings and Saints, making the Pro Bowl five times and being named a two-time first-team All-Pro. He was employed as an analyst for NFL Network before he was fired when the rape allegations surfaced.

Sharper still awaits sentencing in California and Nevada.