OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — An Oklahoma man was found guilty on Thursday of 41 charges including rape and child abuse.
The jury recommended for Melvin Kemp Sr. to serve 35 life sentences, five sentences of life without parole and 20 years for the charge of pointing a firearm.
According to Oklahoma County, on Oct. 23, 2021, a report was made with the Oklahoma City Police Department involving four children being abused both sexually and physically by their father, Kemp.
Based on the allegations, DHS removed the children from their father’s home to the care of a family member. In subsequent forensic interviews of the four children, ranging in age from 11 to 15, the physical and sexual abuse at the hands of their father was disclosed.
A warrant was issued for Kemp’s arrest, which occurred during a traffic stop on Dec. 1, 2021. Police located a firearm in Kemp’s vehicle during the stop. As a convicted felon, Kemp is prohibited from carrying a firearm.
No child under the care of a parent, or anyone else, should have to endure what these children went through,” said Vicki Zemp Behenna, Oklahoma County District Attorney. “If a child dares to disclose information to you, please immediately report that information to law enforcement or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Every child deserves the innocence of youth and a safe place to grow.”
Kemp will continue to be held at the Oklahoma County Detention Center until being formally sentenced on November 30 at 9 am.