A man from Louisiana, Larry Darby, has been convicted of a series of heinous crimes 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 severe physical and emotional trauma at the hands of Darby. The abuse escalated to the point where she sustained permanent injuries, including the loss of upper teeth and scars on her neck.
The victim testified that the assaults led to her pregnancy, which she was coerced to carry to term, giving birth to Darby’s child. DNA evidence conclusively proved Darby’s paternity of the child, renewing the investigation that had stalled in 2005. Additional corroborating evidence later surfaced, prompting the reopening of the case against Darby.
Following 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 conviction and could serve an additional 50 years in prison. The aggravated incest charges carry a potential 20-year sentence each, while sexual battery could result in up to 10 years behind bars.
Darby is scheduled for sentencing on January 27. Caddo Parish District Attorney James E Stewart Sr expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating that justice was delayed but ultimately served for the victim. Darby’s prior conviction for assaulting a stepchild in 2022 was used to demonstrate a pattern of abusive behavior.
Court records show that Darby resided in Caddo Parish during the offenses and later relocated to Bossier City, Louisiana, before moving to Texas. The successful prosecution of Darby was attributed to the victim’s bravery in coming forward and providing crucial evidence. The case highlights the importance of supporting and believing survivors of abuse, particularly when children disclose such traumatic experiences.