Man accused of a sex crime may face his victim in court for a second time

NORWICH – A man charged with a sex crime appeared in county court with his attorney Monday to debate what evidence can be used against him. Dwight K. Stevens is charged with first degree criminal sexual act (a Class B felony) and endangering the welfare of a child (a Class A misdemeanor).

The prosecution moved to present Stevens’ prior convictions to a jury at trial. Stevens has two prior offenses, including a DWI and endangering the welfare of a child. District Attorney Joseph McBride wanted to introduce both prior acts to a jury.

“We should not bend over backwards to hide the truth from the jury. If we do, they will get the impression this is a one-time deal, but in fact this case is about an ongoing history of sexual misconduct by the defendant,” said McBride.

Stevens’ Public Defender Alan Gordon said, “The DWI has nothing to do with the current charges in any way and would mislead the jury into thinking Mr. Stevens is some kind of drunk.”