A Washoe County jury has convicted a man of multiple sex crimes involving a 13-year-old child.
32-year-old Thomas Delap of Reno was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault against a child under 14, one count of use or permit child pornography, one count of luring with the use of a computer, and one count of child abuse, according to the Washoe County District Attorney’s Office.
In August 2024, Washoe County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of a sexual assault at a home in downtown Reno and arrested Delap. When police arrived, they discovered that Delap had sexually abused a 13-year-old girl he knew. Throughout the conversation, the victim revealed that Delap had sex with her twice throughout the summer of 2024. Furthermore, the defendant had requested that the child send him naked pictures of herself.
Deputy District Attorney Matt Merrill questioned the victim, investigators, and other witnesses about the offenses during the trial. DDA Merrill emphasized the Washoe County Sheriff's Office's thorough investigation, which included forensic examination of electronic devices that revealed Delap was sending the child graphic texts.
During closing arguments, the State emphasized that the victim’s testimony was consistent with the testimony of other witnesses and corroborated by the physical and digital evidence presented at trial. In addition, DDA Merril argued that Delap had both the opportunity and motive to commit these offenses.
“Crimes committed against children are the most devastating offenses our community faces,” said Deputy District Attorney Matt Merrill. “Our office will continue to vigorously prosecute individuals who commit these crimes and seek justice for victims. Every child deserves to be protected.”
Sentencing is scheduled for December 8th; Delap faces life in prison with the possibility of parole after 77 years.
