Melanie Curtin Acquitted of Simple Rape and Video Voyeurism Charges

Livingston Parish jury returns acquittal in high-profile retrial. The decision ends years of litigation stemming from a 2014 assault allegation.

A judge in Livingston Parish entered the verdict after a week-long retrial. Judge Brian Abels presided over the case.

Trial and verdict

The defendant was found not guilty on all counts. She faced charges of simple rape and video voyeurism.

The jury deliberated for about three hours before announcing the verdict. The trial lasted roughly one week.

Defendant’s response

After the verdict, the defendant said she felt grateful for support. She added she planned to leave Livingston Parish.

Her defense lawyer, Jeanna Wheat, said jurors noticed weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Wheat said the evidence did not meet the burden of proof.

Prosecution reaction

Prosecutors said they disagree with the jury’s decision but respect the process. Erica Moore spoke for the Louisiana State Attorney General’s Office.

Moore also raised concerns about media coverage and its effect on fairness. She said the case had been tried in public opinion before court proceedings concluded.

Attorney General statement

Louisiana State Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a formal statement expressing deep disappointment. She praised the victim’s courage in testifying.

Murrill said court rulings weakened rape shield protections and vowed to seek fixes. She also faulted what she described as a campaign to influence the process.

• Prosecutors named in the statement included Erica Moore, Barry Milligan, Cassidy Smith, and Joseph LeBeau.
• The statement thanked STAR for victim advocacy and support.

Case background

An appeals court overturned an earlier conviction in 2023. The panel found evidence helpful to the defense had been withheld in the first trial.

The charges stemmed from allegations that a former Livingston Parish deputy participated in an assault. That former deputy has been convicted and is serving a lengthy prison term.

The defendant has not publicly announced next steps. She said she will consult with family before deciding.

The case is frequently searched using terms such as Melanie Curtin Acquitted of Simple Rape and Video Voyeurism Charges. Filmogaz.com reported on the retrial and the reactions that followed.