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Sex offender in Seattle's Golden Gardens bathroom attack sentenced

Gary Steiner apologized in court and asked for the maximum sentence of 36 months.
Gary Steiner apologized in court and asked for the maximum sentence of 36 months. (Photo: KING)

The sex offender who was fought off by a runner in a Seattle bathroom was sentenced Friday.

Gary Steiner apologized in court and asked for the maximum sentence.

The judge agreed and sentenced him to 36 months of an indeterminate sentence, which could potentially be life.

Last year, Steiner hid in a women's bathroom stall at Golden Gardens Park with the intention of raping a woman.

He attacked Kelly Herron from behind, but she fought him off.

She wrote about her experience on Instagram with a post that went viral.

Herron said she had just taken a self-defense class before the incident happened and encourages all women to do the same.

"The fear of this happening has sent shockwaves globally. On one hand, I am inspired to help other women and self-defense classes. On the other hand, it should not have to be a component of runners safety or safety for any woman," said Herron in court.

Since her attack more than a year ago, Herron has led efforts to teach self-defense and empowerment to other women.

Related: Survivor of Golden Gardens attack organizes self defense class

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