CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio – A Pickaway County jury has convicted a Circleville man on multiple charges, including rape and compelling prostitution, following a two-day trial in the Pickaway County Court of Common Pleas.
Mark E. Whaley, 53, was accused of sexually abusing a juvenile victim, who later reported the crimes to school authorities. Prosecutors charged Whaley with four counts each of rape, compelling prostitution, and gross sexual imposition.
Testimony From Victim and Investigators Leads to Conviction
During the trial, the jury heard from several key witnesses, including the victim, her mother, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation agent Amy Wanken, and Pickaway County Sheriff’s Detective Daniel Rubio.
Whaley chose to testify in his own defense, but after three hours of deliberation, the jury found him guilty on one count of rape, one count of compelling prostitution, and one count of gross sexual imposition. He was acquitted on the remaining charges.
Whaley Taken Into Custody, Sentencing Date Pending
Judge Matthew H. Chafin presided over the trial, with Assistant Prosecutor Heather MJ Carter representing the state. Columbus-based defense attorney Lewis T. Dye represented Whaley.