BERKELEY, Mo. — A man was convicted Thursday of sex crimes against children who were under the age of 12.
Anthony Fletcher, 40, of Berkeley, was convicted related to crimes against two girls between October 2017 and April 2021.
A St. Louis County jury found Fletcher guilty of first-degree statutory rape and first-degree statutory sodomy.
The victims testified against Fletcher. They were escorted to the courtroom by the St. Louis Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse. BACA volunteers help create a feeling of safety for fearful children. The St. Louis County Attorney's office said BACA's presence was critical to the girls agreeing to testify.
Fletcher was not in court when the defense presented its case. He was hospitalized after a suicide attempt the night after the prosecution presented most of its case. The court ruled the case against Fletcher could continue in his absence.
The court revoked Fletcher's bond and issued a warrant for his arrest. Fletcher will be sentenced at a later date. He faces 50 years to five consecutive life sentences in prison.
