TENNESSEE
WATE
Laura Halm, WATE 6 On Your Side Reporter
GREENEVILLE (WATE) – A former East Tennessee priest, convicted of rape, is asking for a new trial.
William Casey was sentenced to a 35 year prison term in 2011 for aggravated rape and sexual misconduct in a case dating back to the 1970s. The now-adult victim, Warren Tucker, says the abuse lasted for years.
Casey has recently hired a new attorney, Frank X. Santore, Jr. The State of Appeals Court has already upheld Casey’s conviction and was denied permission to appeal to the Tennessee Supreme Court. Santore says he can’t get Casey’s conviction thrown out, so he wants a new trial.
“I am not sitting here saying this is going to be a slam dunk. In fact, we have the burden going forward by clear and convincing evidence here. The presumption of innocence is removed,” said Santore. …
Catholic Diocese of Knoxville spokesperson Jim Wogan sent us the following: “These allegations were thoroughly investigated years ago. A court of law made its decision in 2011. Beyond that, the Diocese of Knoxville will have no further comment on this matter.”
According to SNAP, Survivors Network Abused by Priests, Warren Tucker does know about this post-conviction relief petition and is very concerned. SNAP says they hope this petition is not granted because it means dragging the victim through horrible experiences all over again. The organization adds they do know that the law can take many turns, so they’ll just have to wait and see. In the meantime, they’ll continue to listen and advocate for victims
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