In a significant legal victory, defense attorney Jesse Harper successfully represented 62-year-old Michigan City resident John Newcomb in a high-profile criminal case that was dismissed on the eve of trial. Newcomb had been facing serious charges including rape, child seduction, sexual battery, and domestic battery stemming from allegations made in July 2021.
The case was dismissed by LaPorte County Superior Court Judge Jaime Oss on Monday, the same day Newcomb was scheduled to face trial. LaPorte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan cited the state’s inability to meet its constitutional burden of proof as the reason for seeking dismissal.
Harper emphasized that his client maintained his innocence throughout the nearly four-year legal process. “My office conducted extensive investigation and depositions in this matter and worked closely with the state to ensure a fair trial,” Harper stated. He also praised the professionalism of the LaPorte County prosecutor’s office and their staff.
The allegations originated from a July 2021 incident at Newcomb’s Michigan City home, where a 17-year-old acquaintance accused him of sexual assault. When initially approached by police about the allegations, Newcomb requested to have his attorney present but did not follow through with scheduling an interview.
Harper’s thorough investigative work and legal preparation over the course of the case ultimately contributed to the prosecution’s decision to dismiss all charges. The charges were dismissed without prejudice, meaning they could theoretically be refiled, though the prosecutor’s statement suggests this is unlikely given their assessment of the evidence.
This case demonstrates Harper’s commitment to vigorous defense representation and his ability to achieve favorable outcomes for clients facing serious criminal allegations through meticulous case preparation and professional collaboration with prosecuting attorneys.