In a decision at the Logan County Courthouse on Monday, Leroy Raymond Smith, 38, was sentenced to a total of 100 years in prison following his conviction on two counts of rape and two counts of lewd acts with minors under the age of 14.
The sentencing, which followed a jury trial and a motion for a new trial, saw Smith receive 30 years for each rape conviction and 20 years for each lewd act conviction, all to be served consecutively. Related article: Jurors convict man of rape of two underage females; family says they will appeal
The motion to appeal the verdict, filed by Smith’s attorney Adam Banner, was heard in a brief 40-minute session on Monday morning.
The appeal stemmed from concerns raised by a female juror who, in a sworn affidavit, claimed that the jury’s deliberation process was flawed. She alleged that some jurors were dismissive of her concerns and the jury instructions, particularly regarding Smith’s decision not to testify. The juror also expressed that key evidence, including photos of Smith’s home, was unavailable during deliberations, which could have influenced the jury’s decision. Related article: Jurors convict man of rape of two underage females; family says they will appeal
Despite these claims, Judge Phillip Corley ruled against the motion for a new trial, affirming that the jury was properly instructed and deliberated thoroughly. The judge noted that all accommodations and exhibits were provided as required and that the verdict was signed by the foreman, reflecting the jury’s unanimous decision.
During the sentencing phase, emotional impact statements were delivered by both victims. One victim, who was 13 at the time of the assault, recounted the lasting trauma inflicted by Smith’s actions, while the other, now homeschooling due to the psychological impact, had her statement read by an advocate from the Guthrie Police Department.
Smith, who has a prior criminal record including convictions for second-degree attempted burglary and possession of a stolen vehicle, remained expressionless as he received his sentence. His supporters, however, vowed to continue fighting for what they believe is his innocence, citing alleged evidence that was not presented in court.
“They sent an innocent man to prison for 100 years with no evidence and the evidence that they do have proving it’s another false allegation they wouldn’t allow in court,” one of Smith’s supporters said. “You can ask anyone that knows Ray that these accusations are absolutely absurd!! I will fight for the Truth till the day I die alongside our family and his friends!!!!”
Smith has 10 days to file an appeal of the decision.
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