Jasper resident admits to molesting two children in Cherokee County

Press Release Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit DA

January 7, 2022 –District Attorney Shannon Wallace announces that on December 9, 2021 Jasper resident Roy William Ray, 38, entered a guilty plea to rape, four counts of child molestation, criminal attempt to commit aggravated child molestation, and computer pornography. These charges stem from sexual abuse of two children in separate incidents in 2020 and 2012.

In October 2020, Cherokee Sheriff’s Office arrested Ray for rape and other charges after a child disclosed to her grandmother. During the course of the investigation, another relative disclosed that Ray had raped and molested her eight years prior. Both victims were under the age of 16 at the time of the crimes.

The victims participated in separate forensic interviews at the Anna Crawford Children’s Center, where they provided detailed accounts of what Ray had done to them. 

“Sexual predators take advantage of vulnerable children, then threaten them into silence. This defendant told the first victim that she would lose her family and home if she ever told anyone about the abuse. She was afraid to tell authorities what this defendant had done to her and, but for the courage of another child coming forward, he would never have been held accountable for his actions,” said Assistant District Attorney Leyna Pope, who prosecuted this case on behalf of the State. 

At the conclusion of the plea hearing, Cherokee County Chief Judge Ellen McElyea accepted Ray’s negotiated guilty plea then sentenced him to 20 years to serve without the possibility of parole, followed by life on probation. Upon his release from prison, Ray is prohibited from contacting the victims or the victims’ family members and must adhere to sex offender special conditions.

“This defendant stole the innocence of two innocent children, likely causing long-term psychological harm,” said District Attorney Shannon Wallace. “We are so proud of these young victims for standing up for themselves and helping ensure that this predator is now in a place where he cannot hurt young children.”

The Office of the District Attorney for the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit is committed to seeking justice, acting with integrity, and collaborating with partner agencies in the criminal justice system in order to protect the citizens of Cherokee County and the State of Georgia.