NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A conviction was secured by the Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office in a 2022 rape investigation involving an intellectually disabled woman. Through the efforts of the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) team, the district attorney's office was able to convict Sterling Benjamin. During the trial, the victim's sister advocated on her behalf by telling the court how the "horrific acts" done by Benjamin had an impact on her sister's life. Two Ponchatoula schools put on lock down for investigation of ‘unfounded threat’ According to court documents, the crime was committed in the victim's home. As a result of Benjamine pleading guilty to third-degree rape, he received a 15-year sentence, according to the district attorney's office. SAKI officials said they were able to reach a resolution in the case due to the detailed examination and review of "extremely sensitive" evidence and testimony. Several arrested in New Orleans Police Department Special Operations Division investigation Documents note the victim addressed the court to express her gratitude to her family, law enforcement, medical professionals and the district attorney's team. Following the 15-year sentence, Benjamin was also issued a 15-year stay-away order and will be required to register as a sex offender for life. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts National Champion Michigan looks to break another record at the NFL Draft Trump prosecution wants these 10 posts removed Prosecutors want Trump to be held in contempt — but what does that mean? UnitedHealth says 'substantial proportion' of Americans' information hit by cyberattack Senate expected to pass bill that could ban TikTok