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October 30, 2006

Update: Ex-councilman found guilty of 4 sex-assault charges

PROVIDENCE -- A former East Providence city councilman was found guilty today on four of seven counts of first-degree sexual assault against a boy who had worked for him in his flower shop 20 years ago.

Gerald R. Lynch, 62, was found not guilty on the three other counts.

There was some suspense in the courtroom as the Superior Court jury announced it had found Lynch not guilty on the first three counts.

But when the verdicts of guilty came in, the victim, now 37, clasped his fist and said "Got him."

In the courtroom, he was embraced and patted on the arm by his sister and mother. Outside court, he was embraced by other relatives.

After the verdicts, the victim said that trial experience was worthwhile because it gave him a sense of relief and of vindication and because it will "put a pedophile behind bars."

Lawyers in the case argued about whether Lynch should be held pending sentencing or released pending an appeal, which the defense indicated it would do.

Judge Edward C. Clifton denied the prosecution's request that Lynch be jailed immediately. Instead, he ordered that he be placed on home confinement. Lynch was led away in handcuffs by deputy sheriffs for processing.

Each count carries a term of 10 years to life in prison.

The jury reached the verdict late this morning after beginning deliberations late Friday. After having some testimony read back and deliberating about another half hour today, they informed the judge they had made a decision.

-- With reports from Journal staff writer John Castellucci

Posted by Andrea Panciera  at 1:37 PM | Permalink

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