FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A Fayette County man has been convicted of dozens of felony sex offenses following a multi-day jury trial, officials said.
Harold L. “Butch” Blake, III was found guilty of 36 felony sex crimes at the conclusion of a three-day trial before Thomas K. Fast.
According to prosecutors, the convictions stem from crimes committed over a 40-year period involving five minor victims. The charges include nine counts of second-degree sexual assault, 13 counts of first-degree sexual abuse, 12 counts of sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, or custodian, and two counts of incest.
Following the verdict, prosecutors requested Blake’s bond be revoked, citing the severity and number of convictions, as well as the likelihood of a lengthy prison sentence. Judge Fast granted the motion, ordering Blake held at the Southern Regional Jail pending sentencing.
The investigation began after a child recently came forward alleging inappropriate sexual conduct by Blake. As the case developed, four additional victims reported similar allegations.
The case was jointly investigated by the Oak Hill Police Department Detective Bureau and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. Prosecution was led by Anthony Ciliberti Jr..
Authorities remind the public that there is no statute of limitations for felony crimes in West Virginia and encourage anyone who suspects child abuse to report it to local law enforcement.
