Posted: Sunday, December 25, 2005 12:00 am
DENVER (AP) - Convicting a stepfather for child molestation wasn't enough for this jury. They decided to raise money for the needy victim's family, which had to move out to avoid further abuse, The Denver Post reported.
"Instead of just turning and running … they said: 'Wait a minute. This family was traumatized.' And they went and did something about it," Denver police Detective Ken Klaus said. He said it was the first time in his 20 years he had seen such generosity.
Jury forewoman Jennifer Volk, the mother of a 1-year-old, said it was sad the trial was held during the holidays, and she could see the pain the 10-year-old victim was experiencing.
"Having a child, you really understand how innocent they are and how important little things are to them," she said. "It was heartbreaking to think (she) wouldn't have a Christmas."
Volk said the girl's strength remained apparent despite it all. "I think she is a survivor."
Volk asked the judge if it was appropriate for her to buy presents and raise money for family, and the judge quickly gave his seal of approval. An informal fundraising campaign began and $500 was collected.
Meanwhile, police got a Christmas wish list from the family.
"It's just been a really amazing experience," she said. "We wanted to provide the family with a little holiday happiness."
The family especially needed the help because the mother had to leave her husband to protect her daughter.
"To protect her daughter, this mother had to walk away from everything they had," said Kimbrough. "That's part of what makes this gift so meaningful."
The jury convicted the step father in less than five hours. The Post did not name him to avoid identifying the girl.
"I think the family is going to have a big smile on their faces when they get the presents," said Klaus.