CRIME
**NELSON COUNTY, Va.** — Raymond Uttaro, a former jailer from Nelson County, has been sentenced to four life sentences plus an additional 25 years after being convicted of sex crimes against a child.
During the sentencing, Commonwealth’s Attorney Daniel Rutherford advocated for six life sentences, emphasizing the profound impact of Uttaro's actions on the victim's life. “This is one where a child's life is altered forever after being violated by his caretaker. Life sentencing was necessary for justice purposes,” Rutherford stated.
In a poignant moment, Uttaro addressed the young victim in a final letter, saying, “I may never see you or talk to you again after today, so, I want to leave you with this: I forgive you and love you.”
The victim's impact statement, read by Rutherford, reflected a sense of hope: “With you gone, I can now heal my mind, body, and soul.” Rutherford highlighted the importance of including the victim's family in the proceedings, ensuring their voices were heard throughout the legal process. He reiterated that holding Uttaro accountable was a crucial first step in the victim's long journey to healing.
Uttaro's defense team has announced plans to appeal the judge’s decision.
This case sheds light on the vital importance of safeguarding children and the repercussions faced by those who violate that trust.
During the sentencing, Commonwealth’s Attorney Daniel Rutherford advocated for six life sentences, emphasizing the profound impact of Uttaro's actions on the victim's life. “This is one where a child's life is altered forever after being violated by his caretaker. Life sentencing was necessary for justice purposes,” Rutherford stated.
In a poignant moment, Uttaro addressed the young victim in a final letter, saying, “I may never see you or talk to you again after today, so, I want to leave you with this: I forgive you and love you.”
The victim's impact statement, read by Rutherford, reflected a sense of hope: “With you gone, I can now heal my mind, body, and soul.” Rutherford highlighted the importance of including the victim's family in the proceedings, ensuring their voices were heard throughout the legal process. He reiterated that holding Uttaro accountable was a crucial first step in the victim's long journey to healing.
Uttaro's defense team has announced plans to appeal the judge’s decision.
This case sheds light on the vital importance of safeguarding children and the repercussions faced by those who violate that trust.
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