WARREN — A 76-year-old Newton Falls man pleaded guilty Tuesday to first-degree rape for forcing an adult male relative to perform oral sex in 2022.

Thomas C. Giljahn, of Ridge Road, faces three to 16.5 years in prison and a possible $20,000 fine when sentenced following a background investigation.

Trumbull County Common Pleas Judge Ronald J. Rice will also classify Giljahn as a Tier 3 sexual offender, requiring lifetime registration every 90 days.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the crime occurred in November 2022 and was investigated by the Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant Prosecutor Michael Burnett represented the state in the case. Giljahn’s plea canceled a jury trial scheduled to begin March 31. He remains held at the Trumbull County Jail pending sentencing.