Closing Arguments Today In Norfolk Teen Rape Case

CANTON - The rape trial for a Norfolk teenager accused of forcing a female teenager to have sexual intercourse began Wednesday in St. Lawrence County Court.

Daniel J. Rode Jr., 19, faces one count of first-degree rape, a Class B felony and third-degree rape, a Class E felony.

All of the testimony was completed in one day, with both prosecution and defense resting their cases at about 4 p.m.

Closing arguments are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. today.

Mr. Rode is accused of having sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old female by forcible compulsion and without her consent May 16 in the town of Norfolk. Mr. Rode was 18 at the time of the alleged crime.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge during his July 24 arraignment.

He is being defended by attorney Charles B. Nash, Canton. Assistant District Attorney Victoria M. Esposito is prosecuting the case which is being heard before County Court Judge Jerome J. Richards.

In May 2007, Mr. Rode pleaded guilty in county court to attempted third-degree burglary. He admitted taking part in a Nov. 25, 2006, burglary at the Orval W. Kimble home, Norfolk.

Mr. Rode was also on probation from 2003 to 2005 for a case where he had been adjudicated as a youthful offender.