Aug 05, 2024

DA: Young survivor showed courage testifying against her perpetrator

Posted Aug 05, 2024 12:00 AM
Burgess photo Douglas Co.
Burgess photo Douglas Co.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —A Kansas felon is going back to prison for child sex crimes.

This week, George Joseph Burgess Jr., 45, was sentenced to serve 618 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for one count of rape followed by 25 years for a second rape conviction, according to Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez.

 In January a jury convicted Burgess of two counts of rape and six counts of indecent liberties with a child.

Charges stemmed from incidents that occurred between January 1, 2017 and February 7, 2019 when the child was between 6 and 8 years old. 

“The young survivor showed exceptional grace and courage while testifying against her perpetrator particularly during intense questioning by the defense,” District Attorney Valdez said. “We are committed to seeking justice for victims of sexual violence and ensuring the safety of all children in our community.”  Burgess has a previous conviction for burglary, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.