A former Orange, Texas, resident pleaded guilty in state district court on Monday to raping a child.

Prosecutor Cynthia Guillory said David R. Saracino, 46, aka David Iburg, performed oral sex on a 4-year-old in Calcasieu Parish between Nov. 20 and Dec. 11, 2004.

Saracino, who never admitted culpability, pleaded guilty because he felt it was “in his best interest,” defense attorney Ginger Vidrine said.

Vidrine said that although Saracino maintained his innocence, he felt that enough evidence existed that a jury could convict him of a greater offense, like aggravated rape, if he went to trial.

Saracino was originally charged with aggravated rape and sexual battery.

Guillory said the aggravated rape charge was later amended to forcible rape and the sexual battery charge was dismissed.

Saracino was arrested in 2005 after being featured on “America’s Most Wanted.” Members of his Orange church recognized him and contacted authorities.

Saracino is already in prison in Utah for his 2007 guilty plea to three counts of child sodomy. He also faces charges for crimes involving juveniles in Orange.

Judge David Ritchie set sentencing for Jan. 6. Saracino could face up to 40 years in prison. He must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.