A man who impregnated an 11-year-old girl was headed to trial but decided to enter a guilty plea instead in Rockdale County Superior Court on Wednesday.

Rockdale County Superior Court Judge Sidney Nation agreed with the state prosecutor's recommendation and sentenced Juan Carlos Mendoza to 14 years for statutory rape.

Mendoza impregnated an 11-year old girl in February 2010, when he was 21 years old.

According to defense attorney James Purvis, representing Mendoza, the victim's condition was discovered after she had the baby when a school social worker noticed she appeared to be lactating. Mendoza was then identified as the father of the child to the social worker.

Purvis asked for credit for time already served and the state recommended a sentence of 14 years to serve.

"He is sad the situation came about but had no criminal intent in his mind," said Purvis of Mendoza.

Nation then issued his decision, siding with the state.

"In the court's mind there is no excuse for having sex with a little girl," Nation said. "It's reprehensible."

Nation then told Mendoza, through his translator, that though he said he loved and wanted to marry the young girl, it was still a crime that he did not tolerate.

"You robbed her of her childhood and her opportunity to enjoy life as a young girl in her community," Nation said.