William Lora, 50, of 17 West Baltimore Street in Lynn was sentenced to 15 to 25 years in state prison by Judge Howard Whitehead in Salem Superior Court after a jury found him guilty of 3 counts of rape of a child with force and 3 counts of indecent assault and battery on a person 14 or over. He was found not guilty of a witness intimidation charge.
Essex Assistant District Attorney Melissa Woodard proved that between August and November 2007, Lora repeatedly and forcibly raped the victim in his home as well as indecently assaulting her numerous times. The victim, who testified during the six day trial, was 14 and 15 at the time of rapes. Woodard recommended a life sentence due to the “horrific acts” committed by the defendant, who was trusted by the victim.
Essex District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett commended the victim for bravely disclosing the rape. “Rape is a crime that often causes its victims to feel so ashamed that it is difficult for them to come forward. This young woman bravely faced her rapist, who was someone she had trusted. It cannot be overstated what an incredibly courageous act that is,” Blodgett said.
Woodard praised the work of the entire trial team, especially Lynn Police Detective Christine Petruzzeillo and Lt. Marie Hanlon.
