TEXARKANA, Arkansas -- The Arkansas Court of Appeals has affirmed the convictions and 55-year sentence a Miller County man is serving for sexually abusing two girls.
William Jesse Boswell, 60, was found guilty of rape and sexual indecency with a child in connection with one of the victims and guilty of second-degree sexual assault in connection with the other by a Miller County jury in September 2020. He was assessed a total term of 55 years.
When one of the victims learned that another girl came forward, she reported the abuse she suffered to authorities as well.
Boswell's sole argument on appeal in the cases of both victims was their credibility. Boswell argued they should not be believed.
"The jury is free to believe all or a portion of any witness's testimony, and the jury's duty is to resolve questions of conflicting testimony and inconsistent evidence," the appellate opinion states.
In addition to the two victims named in the cases against Boswell in Miller County, several other relatives testified they were also sexually abused by Boswell as children.
Boswell will be in his 80s by the time he is eligible for parole. Eligibility for parole is not a guarantee that parole will be granted.
Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Connie Mitchell said she hopes the higher court's ruling gives solace to those Boswell abused.
"We are very pleased with the Court of Appeals' affirmation of Mr. Boswell's conviction and sentence," Mitchell said. "Those whose lives were affected can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this horrible chapter in their life is closed, finally."