New Orleans, LA — Friday, May 1, 2026 — The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office announced the conviction and sentencing of Lorenzo J. Oliver for second-degree rape of a minor. Following proceedings in Section “L” of Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, the defendant was sentenced to 40 years at hard labor, ensuring accountability for a serious and violent offense.
District Attorney Jason Rogers Williams stated, “At the center of this case is a young survivor whose voice mattered. This outcome reflects her strength and the commitment to make sure she was heard every step of the way. Our office will continue to stand with victims and pursue accountability with care and purpose.”
In December 2021, the defendant abducted a juvenile victim from a bus stop and transported her to another location, where she was sexually assaulted. The case was built through a coordinated investigative effort and strengthened by forensic evidence processed through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), which proved critical in identifying the defendant and advancing the case toward indictment.
During sentencing, Assistant District Attorney Meghan Falcon and SAKI Unit Chief Mary Glass presented victim impact statements on behalf of the victim’s family, detailing the profound and lasting impact of the defendant’s actions. The statements reflected the emotional toll on the child and her loved ones, while also underscoring their strength and resilience throughout the process.
Victim Witness Advocate Vickie Landry remained alongside the family at every stage, ensuring they were supported and informed. A family member delivered the victim’s statement in court, describing the long-term trauma and disruption to her sense of safety, while making clear that sharing her voice was part of her healing.
SAKI Unit Chief Mary Glass stated, “This case is a reminder that persistence matters. Through the use of forensic evidence and the dedication of this team, we were able to identify the offender and ensure he was held accountable.”
Assistant District Attorney Meghan Falcon added, “This survivor and her family have shown tremendous strength. Our role is to stand with them, ensure their voices are heard, and pursue accountability—and that is exactly what this outcome reflects.”
Judge Angel Harris acknowledged the difficulty of the case, stating, “I know this has been very difficult for you all, but I hope this brings you closer to closure.”
The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to former NOPD Detective Taylor St. Charles, the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab DNA Unit, the Audrey Hepburn CARE Center, and Children’s Hospital for their critical roles in the investigation and care provided throughout this case. Their collaboration was instrumental in supporting the survivor and securing this outcome.
This case was prosecuted by the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) team, including SAKI Unit Chief Mary Glass, Assistant District Attorney Meghan Falcon, Victim Witness Advocate Vickie Landry, Trial Assistant Tyra Clark, and Investigator David “Dave” Benelli.
The SAKI Unit remains committed to holding offenders accountable while ensuring survivors are supported, heard, and treated with dignity throughout every stage of the judicial process.
