Alleged victim may have to testify against accused again

NORWICH – A man charged with his second sex crime appeared in county court recently with his attorney and could not reach an agreement with the prosecution.

Dwight K. Stevens is charged with first degree criminal sexual act (Class B felony) and endangering the welfare of a child (Class A misdemeanor).



Stevens is now set to go to trial where the alleged victim may have to testify against him for a second time. Stevens has two prior offenses, including a DWI and endangering the welfare of a child, that were up for debate. 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.

Discuss this story with other members on the Forum


There's more to this story! You're only seeing 50% of the story. Subscribe now to get immediate access to the rest of the story as well as our whole online offering.

Today's Other Stories



Reader Response

1 comments on this story

irentspace
May 30th, 2007 at 10:38 am
This is part of the problem with our judicial system. We are so afraid that we are going to violate the rights of these predators. I wouldn't care how minor the infraction of the law, it should be brought up in any trial. Past offenses, especially those of a predatory nature against women and children should be brought up in court. The penalties for these offenses are not strong enough, that's why when they are released from jail or prison, they are repeat offenders.
Please log in to leave a comment.
© 2008 Snyder Communications/The Evening Sun
29 Lackawanna Avenue, Norwich, NY 13815 - (607) 334-3276