The Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office has announced its intent to seek the death penalty in the case of Jerry Dorisme, a 28-year-old man indicted by an Orange County grand jury on charges of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and sexual battery. Dorisme is accused of the July 4th rape and murder of a juvenile female found stabbed at an apartment complex on South Rio Grande Avenue. According to the State Attorney's Office, Dorisme was arrested after a week-long investigation by the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
The details of the charges are severe, as Dorisme is alleged to have not just murdered the victim but to have kidnapped and sexually assaulted her as well. The State's decision to potentially bring down the ultimate punishment is based firmly on the heinous nature of the crime, combined with Dorisme's prior record. In a statement published by the State Attorney's Office, prosecutors outlined their case against Dorisme, citing the aggravating factors they intend to prove, including that "The defendant committed the capital felony while engaged in the commission of, or an attempt to commit, sexual battery and kidnapping."
Prosecutors also added that the defendant is a convicted felon, previously convicted of a capital felony or a felony involving the use or threat of violence to another person, and that the capital felony was especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel. These factors contribute significantly to the State's case in their pursuit of the death penalty.
The State Attorney's Office has made it clear that they cannot provide any further comments to thoroughly protect the integrity of the ongoing proceedings. As is standard, regardless of the charges, Dorisme will remain presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
