⏱ 2 min read
In a horrific crime, David Leonard Mayes, 41, raped a 9-year-old disabled, nonverbal child while visiting her family on Camp Lejeune, a military base in North Carolina. The victim’s mother caught Mayes in the act, and DNA testing later confirmed his crimes. The incident occurred when the mother arrived home early to find her daughter’s door closed, prompting her to burst in and catch Mayes sexually assaulting her daughter.
Mayes was found guilty by a federal jury in March 2026 of the aggravated sexual abuse of a minor while on a military base. He was sentenced to over 30 years in prison for his heinous crime. U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle condemned Mayes’ actions, stating that he preyed on the most vulnerable child imaginable and exploited his relationship with her mother to commit the crime.
The investigation was conducted by NCIS Special Agents, who secured overwhelming forensic evidence that left Mayes with no place to hide. Special Agent in Charge Kelly Parrish of the NCIS Carolinas Field Office praised the swift conviction and sentence, stating that it removes a dangerous threat from the community.
The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III, ensuring that Mayes will not be able to harm anyone else for 30 years. The case highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies to protect the vulnerable and bring predators to justice.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: North Carolina
- Location: NC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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