Former officer convicted in rape of 8 women in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (KTRK) -- An officer accused of assaulting or raping eight women while he was on the job has been found guilty in Oklahoma.[br /][br /]A jury found former Oklahoma City police officer Daniel Holtzclaw guilty on 18 counts, including rape and sexual battery, [url HREF="http://okcfox.com/news/local/verdict-reached-in-daniel-holtzclaw-case[br /]" TARGET="" REL=""]reports KOKH-TV[/url].[br /][br /]Prosecutors say Holtzclaw preyed on women in one of Oklahoma's poorest neighborhoods, using his badge to manipulate his victims.[br /][Ads /][br /]Holtzclaw and members of his family have maintained he is not guilty of these crimes.[br /][br /]Now a judge must sentence Holtzclaw, who could spend the rest of his life in prison.[br /][br /][url HREF="http://okcfox.com/news/local/verdict-reached-in-daniel-holtzclaw-case" TARGET="" REL=""]KOCO-TV reports[/url] the jury has suggested 263 years as the sentence for this conviction. Sentencing is set for January 21.[br /][br /]The Oklahoma City Police Department released the following statement following the guilty verdict:[br /][br /][i]The Oklahoma City Police Department is pleased with the jury's decision regarding the Daniel Holtzclaw trial. It was a long and difficult trial and deliberation process for all involved. It is obvious the jury took their responsibilities very seriously and considered every piece of evidence presented to them.[br /][br /]We are proud of our detectives and prosecutors for a job well done.[br /][br /]To the jury, we thank you for your service.[br /][br /]We are satisfied with the jury's decision and firmly believe justice was served.[/i]