Accused rapist turns down deal, opts for trial

NORWICH – A Columbus man indicted for rape turned down a plea bargain that would have let him walk out of the courtroom a free man. He will instead take his chances with a jury of his peers, risking up to 25 years in state prison.

Lance Jeff Mills, 48, Columbus, has been sitting in the county jail for the last 11 months on $50,000 bail waiting for his day in court.



Mills’ primary public defender, Alan Gordon, fell ill and the court was forced to reschedule his trial which was supposed to begin this afternoon.

Mills appeared in court with a temporary attorney from the Public Defender’s Office, John D. Cameron.

Cameron explained his client’s position regarding a plea deal offered by the DA. Cameron explained the top charge of first degree rape and all other charges would be satisfied if Mills pleaded guilty to third degree assault and accepted a three-year order of protection to stay away from the victim.

Discuss this story with other members on the Forum


There's more to this story! You're only seeing 46% 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

Be the first to comment on this story.

Please log in to leave a comment.
© 2008 Snyder Communications/The Evening Sun
29 Lackawanna Avenue, Norwich, NY 13815 - (607) 334-3276