Jury finds central Ohio attorney guilty of rape, sexual battery in case that involved clients
7/7/2014COLUMBUS — A Columbus attorney has been convicted in a sex crimes trial in which some of the allegations came from his clients.
A Franklin County jury found attorney Javier Armengau guilty Monday on nine of 18 charges, including one count of rape, four counts of sexual battery and two counts of gross sexual imposition.
According to the indictment, the 52-year-old Armengau allegedly engaged in sexual conduct with five victims from 1998 until last year. His accusers included clients and mothers of clients.
Prosecutors have said Armengau preyed on women who needed his legal services.
Armengau has denied the charges, claiming they were part of a conspiracy against him. Messages were left Monday for his attorneys, who have argued the case lacks physical evidence.
Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 12.