Cole sentenced to 30 years for Attempted Statutory Rape of a Child Under 14

A Vicksburg man was sentenced for attempted statutory rape of a child under 14 in Warren County on Thursday.

Judge Toni Terrett sentenced James Cole to 50 years, 20 suspended and 30 years to serve in prison after being accused of attempting to sexual assault his 13-year-old stepdaughter in 2020.

Assistant District Attorneys Liem Walker and Branan Southerland both prosecuted the case which was held last month.

During the trial, the state argued that Cole attempted to rape his stepdaughter just before his wife caught him in the act. The victim also testified that Cole came into her room, climbed on top of her, kissed her breast and attempted to have sex with her. She also stated that it was not the first time that Cole sexually harassed her.

At sentencing, nearly 10 individuals testified on behalf of Cole, including his ex-girlfriend who pointed out that he was a hard-working family man.

On the other hand, Southerland spoke on behalf of the victim.

“He had been doing this for years and she got tired of him coming in her bedroom, Southerland said. I know the family doesn’t believe that he did this but he did. He took this little girl’s innocence and for that we’re asking that he spend the rest of his life in prison.”

Judge Terrett ordered the court to take a quick recess before she returned with a sentencing.

“You violated this young lady in a very unspeakable way and even though she is doing better now, their lives will never be the same,” Terrett said. “Your actions are very inexcusable and I hope that as you serve your sentence you will get the help that you need so that no other woman or man is victimized ever again.”

Cole will have to serve every day of his 30-year sentence.