NEW CUMBERLAND - A rally organized by members of the protest network Anonymous drew approximately 60 people to the steps of the Hancock County Courthouse in New Cumberland on Saturday afternoon.
The action, titled "Operation Innocence," was called to protest the release from jail of Tyler M. Graham, 19, of Weirton, who had been charged Feb. 19 with the alleged rape of a two-year-old "Jane Doe" while staying at the Weirton home of the child's mother in December of last year.
A $50,000 property bond secured Graham's release following an appearance before Hancock County Magistrate Michael Powell.
Article Photos
Wearing the Guy Fawkes mask that has become a familiar sight at Anonymous-sponsored events, the leader of a rally held Saturday afternoon in front of the Hancock County Courthouse in New Cumberland speaks of the need for justice for two-year-old “Baby Jane Doe.” (Photo by Richard Sberna)
While the focus of the rally was the young victim of this assault, which has resulted in her contracting a sexually-transmitted disease, others spoke out regarding their own experiences with what they described as a similar lack of justice. Many in the crowd wore the Guy Fawkes mask which has become a hallmark of Anonymous events.
"It's just a major injustice against our children that is happening in Hancock County, Jefferson County, Steubenville," another attendee said. "It's in our valley. It's everywhere."
Hancock County Sheriff Ralph Fletcher was present for the protest and had positive comments towards the organizers of the event. "I see this as a positive move because they're trying to educate the public," he said. Fletcher said he understood the reasons why many victims of sexual abuse may refuse to come forward, including shame, fear or misplaced guilt.
While Fletcher did not speak at the event, he drew huge applause from the crowd when he stated there is no statute of limitations for sexual assault in West Virginia.
