MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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July 2, 2008

Jury takes 15 minutes to convict Warner man of rape

A Muskogee County jury recommended a life sentence for a Warner man convicted of raping a 7-year-old girl.

Jurors deliberated just 15 minutes before finding Vernon Leroy James, 24, guilty of first-degree rape.

Authorities said James began molesting the girl when she was 6 years old. The child’s mother reported it to authorities as soon as she learned of the molestation.

Assistant District Attorney Nikki Baker Dotson credited the jury’s quick decision on the “overwhelming amount of evidence in this case.” The trial began Monday and concluded at about 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Dotson said the Department of Corrections assesses 45 years when a life sentence is rendered. Dotson said James would be required to serve 85 percent of that sentence should the court uphold jurors’ recommended sentence.

A presentencing investigation was ordered by the presiding judge. James is scheduled to return to court Oct. 1 for sentencing.

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