Child Rapist Convicted of Abusing a Five-Year-Old Child

Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Child Abuse Unit obtained convictions against a man who repeatedly sexually assaulted a child beginning when the child was five years old.  Carl Richard Chesney, 38, was convicted of Rape of a Child, Sexual Activity involving a Minor, and two counts each of Aggravated Sexual Battery and Rape.  Judge Scott Green revoked Chesney’s bond, ordered him into custody, and set the case for sentencing on June 10.

In a two-day trial, Assistant District Attorneys Heather Good and Ashley McDermott explained to the jury that starting in 2010, when the victim was five years old, Chesney began sexually assaulting the child.  The assault continued for several years until the victim turned twelve.  Eventually, the victim disclosed the years of abuse, and Knoxville Police Department Investigator Patti Tipton began gathering evidence and interviewed Chesney.

“Despite years of abuse, this child had the bravery to step forward and confront her abuser,” said DA Charme Allen.  “We will continue to stand with victims and hold their abusers accountable.”

Rape of a Child is a Class A felony that carries a punishment of twenty-five to forty years in prison without the possibility of parole.  Aggravated Sexual Battery and Rape are Class B felonies carrying a punishment between eight and twelve years.  Assistant Victim Witness Coordinator Micah Gallagher assisted in the prosecution of this case.

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.