A Hagerstown man, Dustin Carey, was recently convicted of felony sexual abuse and sexual assault charges by a Berkeley County, W.Va., jury. The jury found Carey guilty of two counts of felony first-degree sexual abuse, two counts of felony second-degree sexual assault, and five counts of a misdemeanor battery charge. The charges stemmed from a report of a “past occurred sexual assault” in Martinsburg, where the victim had significant injuries. Following police interviews, Carey was arrested and is facing a maximum sentence of 24 1/2 to 60 years in prison, up to 50 years of supervised release after prison, and $42,500 in fines. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Carey’s defense attorney claimed self-defense in the case, but the jury ultimately found him guilty on all charges. The three-day trial was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys Shannon Frederick Kiser and Raymond E. Boyce, with Judge Michael D. Lorensen of the 23rd Judicial Circuit presiding over the case. A forensic examination of the victim at Berkeley Medical Center revealed the extent of the injuries, leading to Carey’s arrest. His sentencing is scheduled for June, where he faces significant prison time and supervised release.
West Virginia State Police were dispatched to the report of the sexual assault on June 13, 2021, and conducted interviews with both the victim and Carey. The investigation ultimately led to the charges being filed and Carey’s arrest. The severity of the charges, including felonies and misdemeanors, reflect the seriousness of the crimes committed. Carey’s conviction highlights the commitment of law enforcement and the judicial system to hold individuals accountable for sexual abuse and assault.
The verdict in Carey’s case sends a strong message about the consequences of engaging in sexual abuse and assault. The fact that he faces a lengthy prison sentence, supervised release, fines, and lifetime registration as a sex offender underscores the gravity of his actions. The prosecution team’s successful handling of the case, along with the jury’s decision, demonstrates the dedication to seeking justice for victims of sexual crimes. The victim in this case was able to receive justice through the legal process, bringing closure and potentially preventing future incidents of abuse.
Carey’s conviction serves as a warning to others who may consider engaging in similar criminal behavior. The severe penalties he faces should deter individuals from committing acts of sexual abuse or assault in the future. The legal system’s handling of this case sets a precedent for holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that victims receive the support and justice they deserve. Through the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, prosecutors, and the judicial system, justice was served in this instance, highlighting the importance of addressing and preventing sexual crimes in our communities.
