SANDY, Utah – A judge has sentenced a man who broke into a Sandy home and kidnapped a 5-year-old girl from her bed to 6-years-to-life in prison Monday.
According to the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s office, Morley went into the Edson family’s Sandy home back on Nov. 7, 2014.
Official documents state the father, Aaron Edson, got out of bed after hearing noises and his stepdaughter’s voice, which he said was odd so early in the morning.
Authorities said Edson found Morley carrying his 5-year-old stepdaughter from the house.
According to the documents, Edson demanded Morley give him his stepdaughter and he agreed.
The documents state Morley ran from the home and the K-9 Unit tracked his scent to neighbor Tina Olsen’s home where she woke to dog barking and officers in her yard.
According to the documents, Olsen then found Morley in her basement where he told her, “I’m in trouble. I’m bad.”
Documents show Olsen went upstairs to tell police Morley was in her house when he ran out to her yard unseen.
Officers said they found he had jumped a fence and ordered him to put his hands in the air.
Police said Morley didn’t listen so they were forced to use the K-9 Unit to take him to the ground.
The documents state Morley still didn’t listen so two officers were needed to take him into custody.
During the sentencing Morley addressed the court and apologized for his crimes.
"I'm deeply sorry that I went into their sanctuary, their safety, I have a little girl myself and she just got married and I understand how you must feel," said Troy Morley.
The Edson family said their daughter didn't suffer any physical injuries, but the emotional stress is evident. She had so many nightmares that the family ended up moving out of the house.
"It's the hardest thing I had to go through as a mom and also for myself to find the strength to retain positive composure and kindness and to try and not lose myself in the what ifs and the negativity surrounding this horrible crime," said mother Stephanie Edson.
