A San Francisco man has pleaded guilty to a series of horrific child sex assaults that spanned a decade, the city's District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced yesterday. Robert Thomas, 56, entered the plea to charges including aggravated sexual assault of a child and committing a lewd act upon a child, and is now facing fifty years to life in prison. He was also convicted of having prior strike offenses.
In a chilling discovery that dates back to 2011, it was revealed that Thomas had abused Jane Doe One since she was eight years old in 1998, escalating in severity over time and including threats against her life and that of her family should she speak out. The San Francisco Police Department’s Special Victims Unit's investigation brought to light more victims, increasing the impact and judiciary weight upon Thomas. according to the District Attorney's Office.
Commended for their unwavering courage throughout the long legal process by Jenkins, the survivors have weathered a daunting quest for closure which will see its next juncture at Thomas's sentencing on February 6, 2024. "These survivors have waited far too long to receive justice. Finally, Mr. Thomas will now face consequences for his depraved crimes," Jenkins was quoted in the District Attorney's Office statement.
As advocates hailed the strength of the seven survivors who banded together against Thomas, Assistant District Attorney Melissa Demetral expressed honor in having worked with the women, whose testimonies nailed down a conviction of a man whose actions she described as 'deplorable'. “The defendant’s conduct in this case is truly deplorable. And this plea reflects the gravity of his conduct,” Demetral told the District Attorney's Office.
As the case approaches sentencing, the District Attorney's Office provides resources for others who might be suffering in silence, emphasizing the imperative to seek help. Local resources listed include San Francisco Women Against Rape, Rape Trauma Services, and the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network.
