On Thursday, July 18, a Barton County jury convicted Joseph Wayne Cruse of nine Jessica’s Law sex offenses, and three additional counts of aggravated intimidation of a witness, for crimes committed over the span of seven years.
Jury selection began on Monday, July 15. The State of Kansas presented evidence over three days. The defense did not present any evidence. The jury heard closing arguments on July 18 and began deliberations just after 10 a.m.. The jury reached a verdict around 3 p.m.
Following the jury’s verdict, District Court Judge Steve Johnson revoked the defendant’s bond and addressed his obligation to register as a sex offender. Sentencing in this matter will be scheduled at a later date.
Each Jessica’s Law conviction carries a presumed life sentence with a mandatory 25 years before possible parole.
The specific convictions include: Five counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, three counts of aggravated intimidation of witness, one count of aggravated criminal sodomy, two counts of rape and one count of attempted aggravated indecent liberties with a child.