Spring Valley

A recently retired 23-year veteran of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration was sentenced Monday to three years in state prison for molesting his 13-year-old stepdaughter.

Probation was rejected for Michael Vern Harvey, 50, of Spring Valley by San Diego Municipal Court Judge Wayne Peterson.

Harvey’s attorney, Peter Hughes, argued for probation, citing the threats that would come to Harvey from prison inmates because of his offense and his law enforcement connection.

Deputy Dist. Atty. Brian Michaels said Harvey could be safely housed in prison, although he may have to be placed in isolation. Michaels did not ask for the maximum eight-year term.

Harvey was placed on sick leave by the DEA after his arrest in September. He was eligible for retirement from the agency on his 50th birthday, June 27, and retired then. The prosecution agreed to delay his case until June 30, after Harvey signed an agreement not to have the stepdaughter testify.

Harvey, who pleaded guilty to one count of fondling the girl, must pay a fine of $500 and register as a sex offender upon his release.

“His activities with his stepdaughter occurred over a sustained period of time,” Peterson said.

The judge allowed Harvey to remain free until next Monday to work out arrangements with prison officials for transportation. He sentenced Harvey under a provision that allows him to review the sentence at a later date for possible reduction.