Bryan Man Pleads Guilty To Aggravated Sexual Abuse of Disabled Female Victim

A Bryan Man’s Startling Admission

In a shocking courtroom scene in Brazos County, a Bryan man, Henry Tates, admitted to the aggravated sexual assault of a woman with Down’s Syndrome. This confession led to the cancellation of the trial, initially scheduled for this week.

The 50-year-old Tates, in concurrence with the district attorney’s office, entered into a plea agreement which sealed his fate with a 30-year prison sentence. Online jail records illustrate a lengthy criminal history for Tates with his most recent arrest in October 2022, marking his 21st booking since March 1993.

Justice Achieved for Disabled Victim

The victim, a 29-year-old woman identified as S.W., bravely faced the ordeal and her testimony has resulted in a lifetime protection order against Tates. Regrettably, the details of her ordeal surfaced only after the diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease that led to Tate’s arrest.

According to medical reports, the girl mentally shares equivalence with a third grader, which deprives her of the capability to willingly consent to any sexual acts. During a forensic interview at Scotty’s House Child Advocacy Center, S.W. recounted details of the sexual assault, which Tates later confessed to authorities, admitting to digital penetration and other sexual assault acts.

Reaction From the Legal Community

The case elicited a harsh statement from assistant district attorneys Kristin Burns and Ryan Golden. “Taking advantage of this young woman is disgraceful. Protecting her and others from his predatory nature is our honor,” they said. For them, it was essential that justice prevailed for S.W., deterring the future occurrence of such despicable acts.

Meanwhile, the defense failed to justify or mitigate the actions of Tates, leaving him with a hefty prison sentence. The case, however, serves as a stark reminder and strong deterrent for those who dare violate the law or take advantage of disabled individuals.

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