A 28-year-old Lawrence woman pleaded no contest Monday to a child rape charge and faces a sentence of 25 years to life in prison, according to Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson’s office.

Dawn C. Lyles entered the plea Monday afternoon to the rape count. Lawrence police detectives began investigating the case in April 2009 after the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services contacted them about a child abuse case.

Lyles was initially charged in 2009 with two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, but she entered the plea Monday to the amended charge of rape of a child younger than 14.

According to Branson’s office, Jessica’s Law applies in the case, meaning she faces 25 years to life in prison. Douglas County Chief District Judge Robert Fairchild will sentence Lyles Sept. 24.

Amy McGowan, a chief assistant district attorney, prosecuted the case.