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Monday, May 20, 2013 | 3:25 a.m.

Posted: 5:07 p.m. Friday, March 15, 2013

Demonstrators weigh in on judge granting witnesses immunity in teen rape trial

Steubenville teen rape trial
Steubenville teen rape trial

By Eric Minor and  NEWS9

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio —


After a judge granted several teen witnesses immunity in connection with a rape investigation, demonstrators weighed in on how that ruling could set an example for young people who witness potential crimes.

Two Steubenville High School student-athletes are currently on trial, charged with raping another teen known as Jane Doe.

Prior to the trial, thousands of Jane Doe's supporters petitioned Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine to charge additional teens in connection with the case.

But on Friday, Judge Thomas Lipps ruled that several witnesses would have immunity in exchange for their testimony.

That means they will not face charges in connection with this matter.

Members of the group Anonymousphere gathered outside of the Jefferson County Justice Center on Friday afternoon in support of Jane Doe and discussed the judge's decision.

Their spokesman said the group understands the judge's ruling, but worries that it sends a bad message to other teens who witness crimes.

"When you see a crime and you don't report it, that's a problem. Kids have got to get (that) in their heads," one demonstrator said. "If they see something wrong, you've got to report it. And if you don't, you can get in trouble. That mindset has got to change. It has to change."

The group is planning a candlelight vigil in support of the girl at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Jefferson County Courthouse.

Anonymousphere's spokesman said the group's demonstrations will remain peaceful, regardless of the judge's decision.


For more information about the case and its impact, visit our special section with complete coverage of the Steubenville teen rape case.

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