Jury convicts man of multiple counts of rape and indecent liberties with a child

Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez today announced that a jury convicted George Joseph Burgess Jr., a 45-year-old transient, of two counts of rape and six counts of indecent liberties with a child. 

“The young survivor showed exceptional grace and courage while testifying against her perpetrator particularly during intense questioning by the defense,” District Attorney Valdez said. “We are committed to seeking justice for victims of sexual violence and ensuring the safety of all children in our community.”

Charges stemmed from incidents that occurred between January 1, 2017 and February 7, 2019 when the child was between 6 and 8 years old. 

District Attorney Valdez and Deputy District Attorney Joshua Seiden represented the State of Kansas. The matter was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, the Eudora Police Department, the Children's Advocacy Center of Douglas County, and the Kansas Department for Children and Families. The defendant was represented by local attorneys Dakota Loomis and Branden Smith.

Judge Sally Pokorny set Burgess’ sentencing for 4 p.m., on August 1, 2024, at the Douglas County Judicial and Law Enforcement Center.

Burgess faces life with no parole for 25 years in the Kansas Department of Corrections for each conviction. He also must register as a sex offender for life.