By Trend News Line 2024-04-10 09:18:56.
LJ Harris Case: No Second Trial, Guilty Plea, and Sentencing Date Set
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In a recent update on the LJ Harris case, it has been confirmed that there will be no second trial. Following a mistrial declared in March after a jury failed to reach a verdict, Harris, who was accused of two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, and one count of felonious assault, appeared in court for a change of plea. The 43-year-old pleaded guilty to two counts of felonious assault, with one of the rape charges amended to felonious assault.
**Change of Plea and Sentencing Date**
During the recent court appearance, Harris pleaded guilty to the amended charges of felonious assault. The sentencing has been scheduled for May 8, as confirmed by Richland County Common Pleas Judge Brent Robinson. Assistant Prosecutor Olivia Boyer informed the court that the victim, who now resides in South Carolina, had been notified and expressed her desire to make a statement during the sentencing.
**Details of the Offenses**
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The offenses in question took place in the early hours of August 29, 2004, when Harris picked up the victim, who had left her estranged husband’s apartment after a dispute. The woman testified that the subsequent sexual encounter was not consensual and that Harris threatened her with a straight razor, resulting in a cut on her thumb. Additionally, a sexual assault examination revealed injuries to her genitals.
**DNA Evidence and Legal Disputes**
The case remained unsolved until spring 2023 when DNA evidence linked Harris to the crimes. Semen identified as Harris’ was recovered from the victim’s leg, leading to his arrest. As the legal proceedings continue, attorneys are debating whether the charges should be served consecutively or concurrently. The possibility of a consecutive sentence on second-degree felonies could potentially result in 16 years of imprisonment for Harris.
**Additional Legal Troubles**
In an unrelated case, Harris also pleaded guilty to a 2023 felony OVI offense. The incident occurred when he was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 71, with a blood-alcohol content of 0.262, well over the legal limit. With three prior OVI offenses on his record, this latest offense was classified as a fourth-degree felony, punishable by up to 2½ years in prison.
**Upcoming Proceedings**
As the sentencing date approaches, Harris will undergo a presentence investigation to determine the appropriate sentencing guidelines. Boyer mentioned the possibility of the victim providing her statement via Zoom video conferencing during the sentencing hearing. The case continues to unfold, shedding light on the legal consequences of Harris’ actions.
Stay tuned for further updates on the LJ Harris case as it progresses through the legal system..
– Mansfield OH defendant changes plea in case that saw March mistrial
– Defendant in Mansfield OH changes plea in case with mistrial in March.
