John Wayne Gacy’s Nephew Sentenced To 24 Years For Sexual Assault

The nephew of serial killer John Wayne Gacy has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl.

Raymond Kasper was convicted of predatory criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse in July. However, the girl denied the crimes took place on the witness stand.

Kasper read a letter to the court before his sentencing, but never once mentioned his infamous uncle’s name. He believes his family association played a role in his conviction.

“You cannot choose the family you are born into,” Kasper said. He also said he didn’t tell his children about the relation to Gacy until the trial began.

The trial jury was never informed that Kasper was Gacy’s nephew, but the media widely reported the connection.

John Wayne Gacy was executed in 1994 for the murders of 33 boys and young men. Gacy’s victim #19 was finally identified last year after 35 years.

The 49-year-old was arrested last year when he was accused of assaulting the girl multiple times between June and October 2011. The girl said she may have dreamed the abuse, but prosecutors believed she had been pressured or intimidated to recant. A doctor who examined the girl said she had wounds that were consistent with sexual abuse.

Assistant State’s Attorney Sharyl Eisenstein said Kasper believed he was the victim in the situation, and that he had not taken any responsibility for his actions.

Catharine O’Daniel, Kasper’s attorney, said he deserved a new trial since the girl recanted. Judge Joseph P. Condon disagreed, but O’Daniel said she would appeal the conviction. She said Kasper had a clean criminal record and emphasized his work history, which included working as a firefighter after his wife and child were killed in a car crash.

With credit for time served, Kasper will likely serve 18 years in prison.