In June of last year, the former executive director of a home for troubled girls in Cedar City was charged with three counts of rape and aggravated sexual abuse of a child. These first-degree felonies have recently been dismissed without prejudice, so prosecutors can’t refile the charges against the man.
The prosecutors filed the dismissal motion after discovering that several witnesses and victims lied about the charges. The three girls who were allegedly victims were residents of the home. The motion to dismiss also states that severe emotional and psychiatric issues prevented alleged victims from participating in the prosecution.
Since he was charged last June, the man has maintained his innocence. He plans on rebuilding his life, according to a statement issued by the man’s defense attorney. The statement also said that the man is “gratified” that all charges have been dropped.
Anyone who is facing serious charges like this man’s must make sure that they gather a qualified legal team. Understanding how to prove your innocence is vital if you didn’t commit the crimes for which you are accused. While this can be difficult in some cases, this man’s case shows that getting charges dismissed is possible under some circumstances.
Source: The Salt Lake Tribune, “Sex crimes dismissed against former Utah youth home director” Stephen Hunt, Apr. 08, 2014
