25 year old rape case leads to sex crime charges in Louisiana

Not all criminal cases in Louisiana are immediately solved. In fact, there are cases that take years before any charges are filed. For one man now living out-of-state, a crime he was allegedly involved in 25 years ago has led to sex crime charges. There are few details available regarding the original case and investigation.

The 58-year-old man who was indicted now lives on the west coast. The alleged aggravated rape took place in June 1987 at an apartment in Baton Rouge. According to reports, the man who raped the victim also threatened her and her child’s lives.

Authorities purportedly used DNA evidence to match the man to the rape case, though current reports do not indicate how this match came about. The indictment follows an arrest warrant which was obtained in June. The case has been assigned to a Louisiana state District Judge, but no word has been released regarding court dates.

While cases spanning many years may prove to be more complex than those where the alleged crime occurred recently, they are not impossible to navigate. After 25 years, there can be no doubt that both sides of this case are ready to move forward and put the case to rest. Taking the right steps to understand the charges and investigate options for a defense may be a positive course of action for those accused.

Sex crime charges carry potentially strict consequences in Louisiana. This man, if convicted, could face life in prison under Louisiana law. Thankfully, like anyone accused of a crime in our state, this man will have the opportunity to defend himself against the accusations.

Source: The Advocate, “Calif. man indicted in Baton Rouge rape,” Nov. 16, 2012