A New Jersey man has been convicted of raping the 10-year-old daughter of a woman he was dating, authorities announced Wednesday.
Osbourne Gooden, 63, of Irvington, was found guilty on Oct. 10 for the disturbing attack, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said in a press release.
“We are grateful to the jury for their careful consideration of the evidence and to the victim for their courage in coming forward,” said assistant prosecutor Cynthia Teller, who tried the case.
According to authorities, the victim was sitting on her front porch enjoying ice pops with her mother, Gooden and Gooden’s friend on June 22, 2020. When the victim walked inside to get another ice pop, Gooden followed her inside and raped her, investigators said.
“This guilty verdict not only affirms that the truth was heard but it is an important step toward justice and a clear message that crimes against children will not go unpunished,” Teller said.
Gooden faces 25 years to life in prison when he’s sentenced on Nov. 21. He’ll remain in custody until then, and will also be forced to register as a sex offender in accordance with Megan’s Law.
“We hope the victim and their family can move forward knowing that justice was served,” said assistant prosecutor Steven Paskowitz. “Sexual assaults of children will not be tolerated and will be fully punished.”
