The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

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Cuba found not guilty on rape charges

Donald Cuba was found not guilty by a Dallas County jury in his rape trial on May 22, 2013. The former SMU student was accused of sexually assaulting a student in Smith Hall on Feb. 10, 2012.

Cuba, 21, was indicted by a Dallas County grand jury on Sept. 4, 2012.

More than a year after his arrest, the short two-hour trial in May centered on the testimony of the alleged victim, who was referred to in court only as “Jan Doe.”

According to reports from the Dallas Morning News, defense attorney Robert Udashen questioned Doe’s testimony that she was sober while witnesses testified she had been drinking. Udashen said Doe lied about drinking that night and that there was no physical evidence of a sexual assault.

The Dallas Morning News also reported prosecutor Cresta Garland recalled testimonies from students who described Doe as having bruises, frantic and sobbing. Doe’s therapist testified the alleged victim suffered post-traumatic stress.

After the verdict was read, Cuba reportedly announced to the courtroom of SMU students and friends: “I will see you next year.”

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