A man from Louisiana, Larry Darby, has been convicted of multiple charges after sexually abusing a family member for several years, resulting in her pregnancy. The victim, who was only 12 years old when the abuse began in 2003, suffered serious injuries as Darby repeatedly assaulted her until 2009. The victim testified that Darby caused significant harm, including knocking out her upper teeth and leaving permanent scars on her neck.
The abuse led to the victim becoming pregnant, and she gave birth to Darby’s child. DNA evidence confirmed Darby’s paternity, reigniting the investigation that had stalled in 2005. The case against Darby was reopened due to new corroborating evidence provided to investigators.
After a trial at Caddo District Court, Darby was found guilty of aggravated rape, aggravated incest, and sexual battery. He faces a mandatory life sentence for the rape charge, along with potential additional prison time totaling up to 50 years. The sentencing is scheduled for January 27. The District Attorney, James E Stewart Sr, stated that justice was served despite the delay in concluding the case.
Darby had a prior conviction in 2022 for assaulting a stepchild, which prosecutors used to establish a pattern of abuse. Court records indicate that Darby lived in Caddo Parish at the time of the offenses before relocating to Bossier City, Louisiana, and later to Texas.
The convictions against Darby were secured through the victim’s courageous testimony and the careful consideration of evidence by the jurors, according to the Caddo District Attorney’s Office. They emphasized the importance of supporting survivors and responding appropriately to disclosures of abuse, particularly involving children.