Macomb, IL – The first-ever mock rape trial conducted by the Western Illinois Regional Council was a good demonstration of why some sexual assault cases are so difficult to prosecute. The jury was unable to reach a verdict (though in its defense, the panel was given just 15 minutes to deliberate after listening to more than two hours of testimony). Some jurors felt prosecutors did not prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. Others felt that both sides in the case demonstrated that the victim was under the influence - and someone under the influence cannot give consent. The mock trial drew a standing room only crowd to the main courtroom in the McDonough County Courthouse. WIRC's Victim Services hopes the event shed some light on the issue of sexual assault and will help survivors on their road to recovery.
Jury Deadlocked in in Mock Rape Trial
