Child rapist found guilty Monday after a jury trial in Third Judicial District Court

LAS CRUCES - A Las Cruces man accused of child rape was found guilty by jury Tuesday in Third Judicial District Court.

Gary Ferrell, 38, was charged with one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual penetration of a minor in 2017 after a female child reported the abuse to her mother.

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The child's allegations were then reported to the Marshall County Sheriff's Office in Alabama. Authorities in Alabama conducted a forensic interview at a children's advocacy center, who then contacted the Doña Ana County Sheriff's office's investigative division.

On Monday, Nov. 9, the trial was held in Judge Conrad Perea’s courtroom.

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All COVID-19 restriction recommendations for social distancing and protocols were followed as required by the New Mexico Supreme Court. Everyone in the courtroom wore masks and stayed six feet apart.

The mother and victim testified by video. After testimony and arguments were concluded, the jury deliberated for two hours before returning the guilty verdict.

Ferrell was taken into custody and will be sentenced in 30-60 days.

Assistant District Attorney Ann Swank prosecuted the case on behalf of the state.

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This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Child rapist found guilty Monday after a jury trial in Third Judicial District Court

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