Buffalo man receives maximum sentence for predatory sexual assault against a child

Submitted by the Erie County District Attorney’s Office

Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced 51-year-old Steven Burr of Buffalo was sentenced this morning before State Supreme Court Justice Deborah A. Haendiges to 32 years to life in prison. He received the maximum sentence for his conviction.

Between on or about Aug. 27 and Aug. 29, 2016, the defendant subjected a child to sexual contact. Between on or about Sept. 1, 2016, and on or about Feb. 10, 2018, the defendant engaged in two or more acts of sexual conduct and sexual intercourse with the same child who was less than 13 years old. The crimes occurred at a location in the City of Buffalo. The defendant was known to the victim.

On the afternoon of Friday, March 15, 2024, a jury found Burr guilty of one count of predatory sexual assault against a child (class “A-II” felony) and one count of sexual abuse in the first degree (class “D” felony). Jurors rendered their decision after approximately six hours of deliberation following a four-day trial, convicting the defendant of all counts in the indictment against him.

Today, a final order of protection issued on behalf of the victim and her family, which remains in effect until March 2074.

Keane commends officer Rita Ruffin of the Buffalo Police Department special victims unit for her work in this investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Meredith M. Mohun and Caitlyn G. Burns of the special victims/domestic violence bureau.