Trial begins for accused molester pediatrician

Updated 6/25/11 and 8/28/11

June 7, 2011

SUSSEX COUNTY, Delaware: The trial of the pediatrician accused of the rape or other sexual abuse of over 100 children began today in Judge William Carpenter's courtroom. Dr. Earl Bradley was initially charged with 470 counts of abuse, but the prosecution agreed to consolidate the indictment into 24 counts, including 14 of first-degree rape. Bradley has already admitted to assaulting 86 children and videotaping the attacks.

Bradley has waived his right to a jury trial, meaning that Judge Carpenter is the one who will determine the case's outcome and sentencing. Bradley also declined to testify when given the opportunity by the judge, saying "I decided not to testify". If convicted, the likely sentence is life in prison without possibility of parole.

Carpenter has indicated that he will issue his ruling after reviewing the 13 hours of videotape Bradley took of his abuses. The defense team intends to appeal the case if Bradley is convicted, on the grounds that the video evidence was obtained without a warrant. Carpenter imposed a gag order on the proceedings in May of 2010 to ensure Bradley's right to a fair trial.

UPDATE: Judge Carpenter found Bradley guilty on all counts. His sentencing is scheduled for August 26, 2011. Bradley's defense is planning to appeal the ruling after sentencing is handed down.

UPDATE II: Bradley was sentenced to 14 life sentences plus 164 years in prison. The sentence was broken into one life term for each of 14 first-degree rape counts, 124 years for five counts of sexual exploitation of a child and 40 years for five counts of second-degree assault.