By Jessica Taloney Reporter
Published: Wed, November 07, 2007 - 5:44 pm
Last Updated: Wed, November 07, 2007 - 8:41 pm
Last Updated: Wed, November 07, 2007 - 8:41 pm
Jessica Taloney
A Conecuh County jury found Jack Wiley guilty Wednesday of two counts of first degree rape and one count of first degree sodomy.
The jury of eight men and four women deliberated for two hours before announcing their decision. The foster parent of the youngest victim let out an audible sigh of relief when the verdict for the first count was read aloud.
"No other kids have to worry about him," said Theresa Crosby, who sat through two days of graphic and at times gut-wrenching testimony. "It's been a long wait. Her and her brother deserve the best life has to offer now," said Crosby.
Wiley was arrested in 2006 along with the children's mother, Glenna Faye Cavender, after an Atlanta woman spotted Wiley with the little girl in a convenience store. Tracie Lee Dean testified Monday against Wiley, saying his behavior at that gas station was suspicious, and she feared the child was in danger. Dean's persistance lead to arrests and thrust Conecuh County in the national spotlight.
"I'm proud of the jury. Proud of them showing the courage they did," said District Attorney Tommy Chapman, who prosecuted the case.
Wiley's attorney, Dennis Knizley, says his client plans to file an appeal after the December 13th sentencing.
Wiley faces a life sentence for each of the three convictions. Cavender is serving a ten year sentence after pleading guilty earlier this year to lesser charges, though she could be eligible for parole as early as next month.
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