An Etowah County jury deliberated for nearly 3 hours today before reaching guilty verdicts as to all charges against Shanon Ray Amberson, 40, of Southside. Amberson was convicted of Rape in the First Degree, involving a child under 12 years of age, Rape in the Second Degree, and Incest.
Evidence showed the victim was 11 years old when the abuse started and continued for years, until the victim was older, and brave enough to tell him no. She testified, however, that when she did refuse to cooperate, Amberson would begin drinking and would be abusive to her, her mother, and her sister. Finally, after she was in college, she realized that she could not continue to live that way, and she reported the abuse to law enforcement.
"It took an incredible amount of courage for the victim to come forward and report this abuse, especially after it had continued to occur for so many years. Despite what she has been through, she is truly an amazing young woman," said Deputy District Attorney Carol Griffith, who prosecuted the case.
Amberson faces a sentence of up to 99 years or life in prison. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for April 25, 2012.
