Craig Ross Jr. has been sentenced to 47 years to life in prison for the kidnapping and sexual assault of a 9-year-old girl in upstate New York. The incident occurred at Moreau Lake State Park in Saratoga County, where Ross abducted the young girl while she was riding her bike. A massive search was launched, and the girl was ultimately found alive in a trailer in the backyard of Ross’ mother’s home two days later. Ross, who pleaded guilty to first-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault against a child, was sentenced by Judge James Murphy III to 25 years to life on the kidnapping charge and 22 years to life on the sex crime.
Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen described Ross’ actions as “vile” and “wicked” and stated that they warranted a life sentence. She applauded the guilty plea by Ross, which confirmed his responsibility for the heinous acts committed. Judge Murphy’s decision to sentence Ross to 47 years to life reflects the severity of his actions and ensures that he will spend decades in prison before being eligible for parole consideration. Heggen credited the New York State Police and other law enforcement partners, as well as the community members who supported the victim and her family throughout the ordeal.
Heggen expressed gratitude for the efforts of the New York State Police, law enforcement partners, and community members who played a crucial role in bringing Ross to justice and supporting the victim and her family. She highlighted the heinous nature of Ross’ crimes, emphasizing that his actions were deserving of a significant prison sentence. Judge Murphy’s decision to sentence Ross to 47 years to life sends a strong message that such egregious behavior will not be tolerated in society. The case serves as an example of the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and community members in ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are held accountable for their actions.
The sentencing of Craig Ross Jr. to 47 years to life in prison sends a clear message that crimes against children, such as kidnapping and sexual assault, will be met with severe consequences. The Saratoga County District Attorney praised the guilty plea entered by Ross, which confirmed his accountability for the reprehensible acts he committed. Judge James Murphy III’s decision to impose a lengthy prison sentence on Ross reflects the gravity of his crimes and ensures that he will spend a significant amount of time behind bars before being eligible for parole consideration. Throughout the case, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and community members were instrumental in supporting the victim and her family and achieving justice for the young girl.
