A Columbia Falls man has been sentenced to five years with the Montana Department of Corrections for felony sexual abuse of children.

Lewis Allen Packwood, 46, appeared before a judge in Flathead District Court Wednesday. He was convicted last year of possessing photos of young girls in their underwear, including one that he took of a 12-year-old girl while she slept.

According to court documents, Packwood’s wife found the photos on a thumb drive. She texted Packwood about it, to which he replied, “it was wrong and i know it and i honertly thought i ha disposed of them all [sic].”

In interviews with detectives, Packwood admitted that he owned the thumb drive containing the photos. He also told authorities that he was sexually attracted to underage girls and had sought counseling.

Packwood initially was charged in June 2013 with two counts of felony sexual abuse of children. He initially pleaded not guilty but reached a plea agreement in February 2014.

In the agreement, he pleaded guilty to one count in exchange for a recommended sentence of 15 years with 10 suspended. A judge accepted that sentence on Wednesday.

Packwood is being held in the Flathead County Detention Center until he can be transferred to a state corrections facility.

Reporter Matt Hudson may be reached at 758-4459 or by email at mhudson@dailyinterlake.com.