Child Molester Sentenced to Sixteen Years

Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Child Abuse Unit obtained a conviction today against a man who sexually abused a nine-year-old child. Rodney Dewayne Kitts, 44, pled guilty to Aggravated Sexual Battery and received a sentence of sixteen years in prison without the possibility of parole.

During a hearing in front of Judge Steve Sword, Assistant District Attorney Rachel Russell explained that several years ago, Kitts was dating a family member of the victim. While spending the night with that family member, the victim awoke to Kitts sexually assaulting her on the couch. When she saw Kitts, she pretended to be asleep and rolled over. When this occurred, Kitts removed his hand from the victim’s pants and carried her to a bed. The victim waited years to come forward because she was afraid that Kitts would hurt her. Once she came forward, Knoxville Police Department Investigator Mark Taylor was able to gather evidence and conduct interviews that ultimately led to Kitts’ arrest in 2014.

“”Those who molest children have no place in our society,”” said DA Charme Allen.””Because of the bravery shown by this victim coming forward, this perpetrator will be locked up for a very long time.””

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.