An Indiana man, Christopher J. Heath of Fort Wayne, faces up to 7 years in a Missouri prison after being convicted of rape during a four-day trial in Platte County.
The conviction stems from a 2021 incident where prosecutors successfully argued that Heath sexually assaulted a Missouri woman while she was intoxicated and unable to consent. The assault occurred on May 14, 2021, after a group—including Heath and the victim—spent time at a winery and bar.
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According to the Platte County Prosecutor’s Office, the woman returned to her stepmother’s house and went to bed. Family members later found her in a deep sleep. She awoke during the night to find Heath on top of her, asking if she knew who he was as he forced himself on her. She managed to escape and lock herself in another room until morning. The incident was reported the following day.
DNA evidence from the victim’s bed sheets linked Heath to the crime. He was arrested and is currently held on a $100,000 bond.
Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd commended the victim’s bravery, stating:
“Having sex with someone who is unable to consent is a crime. This victim had the courage to speak out, and the jury answered her call for help.”
Zahnd added that while DNA helped solidify the case, it was the victim’s testimony that persuaded the jury.
“Sex crimes happen behind closed doors, and this jury believed the victim when she told them the truth about what happened to her.”
The investigation was conducted by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutors Justin Kalwei and Lynette Lockhart.
Heath’s sentencing is scheduled for August 8.
