Successful prosecution of sexual assault cases is very difficult for varied reasons; often there is little physical evidence; in most cases the offender is known by the victim which complicates many factors; the jury may have a difficult time believing the horrendous acts that community members subject on others.

The Benton County Prosecuting Attorney's Office deserves to be recognized for the successful prosecution of three recent sexual assault cases: Vance Baker, convicted of two counts of child molestation in the first degree and one count of child molestation in the second degree, sentenced to 10 years, prosecuted by Anita Petra; Patrick Gale Wilson guilty of first-degree child rape, prosecuted by Anita Petra; and Cody Kloepper guilty of first degree rape, second degree assault and first degree burglary, sentenced to 24 years, prosecuted by Terry Bloor.

For many victims having their day in court is an important step in their healing process, even if a conviction is not won. They want to be heard and for their offender to answer to his/her crime. I commend the prosecutors for their fearless determination in holding offenders accountable and providing survivors a voice in the process.

JoDee Garretson, Executive Director, Sexual Assault Response Center