Jury Finds Teen Guilty Of Rape, Assault Of Elderly Woman

CHARLOTTE, N.C.,None — Shortly after the jury began deliberations Thursday, they returned a series of guilty verdicts against a Charlotte teen accused of raping an elderly woman last year.

Robert McFadden, 18, was found guilty of rape, assault, and breaking and entering. He was found not guilty of kidnapping.

The judge sentenced McFadden to at least 104 months, or more than 8 years, in prison for the rape charge. He could serve as many as 11 years. He was sentenced to an additional 10-12 months for the remaining charges.

The victim's family spoke quickly. Her granddaughter said they no longer recognize the woman they knew as "Grandma" any more.

McFadden's grandmother, who raised the teen, looked at the victim's family and apologized. His aunt called him a "good boy," but his uncle said McFadden's family should have tried harder raising him.

"I could've been a better uncle,' he said.

The judge told the court that he has not heard a similar case in his 25 years on the bench.

The jury was handed the case on Thursday morning after closing arguments at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.

Prosecutors said a case like this has no "winner."

"They are challenging," Assistant District Attorney Samantha Pedergrass said. "Because it is tragic on both sides to see such a young wasted life, and then a life that should be just living their prime and enjoying their grandchildren to have to deal with the anger and pain of an assault like that."

Pendergrass started off Thursday morning by detailing each of the five charges that McFadden is facing.

He is also charged with kidnapping, assault and breaking and entering.

The woman testified in the case, and at times had trouble recalling all the details of the crime.

Pendergrass told the jury the DNA and other evidence speaks for itself. "Even if you don't believe her ID, even if you are too confused by her, there is still enough for reasonable doubt verdict," she said.

McFadden will be 27-years-old when he is eligible for release.

Previous Stories: August 10, 2011: Closing Arguments Given In Trial Of Teen Rape Suspect July 29, 2011: Relative Of Elderly Rape Victim Says He Saw Suspect Near Home July 28, 2011: Officer Describes Scene After Elderly Woman's Rape

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