Found DNA evidence could delay sex assault trial

Michael Anthony, 58, accused of raping a 20-year old girl and faces one count of sodomy, a first-degree felony.

LOGAN — New found DNA evidence could delay the October trial for Michael Anthony, a 58-year-old Logan man accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old woman in 2013.

Attorneys told Judge Brian Cannell in 1st District Court Tuesday morning, investigators recently found a DNA swab as they were reviewing evidence in the case. The sample was reportedly taken from the alleged victim after the assault occurred.

State attorney Barbara Lachmar said the swab tested positive for male DNA. Investigators are unsure though whether they can test it further and identify who the DNA belongs to.

Judge Cannell questioned why the evidence wasn’t found and presented earlier, noting the three-day trial is scheduled to begin October 7. He said he would allow prosecutors a week though, to see if the DNA sample could be tested further.

Lachmar said she didn’t want to see the case postponed after the length of time the victim has waited since reporting the alleged assault.

During a preliminary hearing in March, the victim described how Anthony sexually assaulted her in a bathroom during a 2013 Halloween party. The victim described how she felt herself being assaulted and could hear Anthony’s voice saying how beautiful she was.

Anthony was later arrested and charged with forcible sodomy, a first-degree felony. He faces up to life in prison if found guilty.

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