Binghamton man convicted of raping a child

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – A Binghamton man is facing 25 years in New York State prison for the rape of a 12-year-old girl.

Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti announced that Willis Bickham Jr. was found guilty of Rape in the First Degree on Thursday by a Broome County Jury.

On June 24, 2023, Bickham Jr, took a 12-year-old child into an apartment at 2 Green Street in Binghamton and had sex with her. He was also found guilty of forcible touching and endangering the welfare of a child.

Bickham Jr. will be sentenced on October 24. He is facing up to 25 years, followed by 10 to 25 years of post-release supervision. Due to his criminal history, the Broome County District Attorney’s Office plans to pursue a sentence of 25 years to life under the Persistent Felony Offender guidelines. Additionally, Bickham Jr. will be required to register as a sex offender.

“We are bound by a duty to confront and hold accountable those who commit heinous crimes,
especially against children, with the utmost care. This conviction emphasizes our relentless commitment to justice and our commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our community,” said Battisti.

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