COLONIAL HEIGHTS, Va. — A man convicted of repeatedly raping his underage stepdaughter, leading to the birth of a child, was sentenced to two consecutive life terms in prison on April 29.
Bobby Gerard Clary, 50, was found guilty of two counts of rape by force, threat, or intimidation after a trial that revealed the horrifying details of his abuse. According to testimony from the victim, Clary subjected her to nightly sexual assaults over a prolonged period of time, eventually resulting in her pregnancy and the birth of a child.
Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Noelle Nochisaki, who prosecuted the case, stated that Clary had systematically groomed his young stepdaughter, exploiting her vulnerability and forcing her into a cycle of fear and submission. The prosecution presented DNA evidence that confirmed Clary was the biological father of the victim’s child, strengthening their case.
“Instead of offering protection, he preyed upon and impregnated her,” Nochisaki said. “This man violated her trust in the most egregious way.”
During sentencing, Judge Steven Novey of the Colonial Heights Circuit Court condemned Clary’s actions, describing the abuse as a “nightly nightmare” for the victim. Despite Clary’s multiple and contradictory statements during the trial, Novey expressed unwavering confidence in the victim’s testimony, praising her for her courage in facing the man who had terrorized her.
“Every night, [the victim] endured a monster,” Judge Novey remarked. “She is a brave and resilient young lady.”
Clary’s defense team presented several different explanations during the trial, but the jury ultimately rejected his claims. Clary was sentenced to life imprisonment for each of the two rape charges, to be served consecutively.
Gray Collins, Commonwealth’s Attorney for Colonial Heights, expressed support for the victim following the sentencing. “We agree with the Court that the victim is a brave and resilient young lady, who had the courage to stand up against her abuser and rapist,” Collins said.
The sentencing provides a measure of justice, but advocates for victims of sexual abuse emphasize that the emotional and psychological recovery for survivors is a long and difficult journey. While Clary now faces the consequences of his crimes, the victim will continue to grapple with the lasting impact of the abuse.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting children from predators, as well as the importance of supporting survivors of sexual abuse in their healing and recovery.
