A Hammonton man accused of sexually assaulting his daughter was cleared by a jury this week.
Jonatad Nava, 34, was arrested after he was allegedly found in bed naked with the girl the morning of July 12, 2020, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
The girl, who was younger than 12 at the time, told investigators her father had raped her that morning, and indicated other instances when she was similarly abused.
Nava, who had a prior charge of endangering the welfare of a different child, has been jailed since July 13, 2020.
“It’s been devastating for him,” defense attorney Edward Crisonino told BreakingAC.
Nava, whose first name also is listed as Jontad, has maintained his innocence throughout the 2½ years, not even considering a plea agreement that would have given him 15 years, his attorney said.
“All of the scientific and forensic evidence showed no assault had occurred,” he said.
The jury took about three hours to render its verdict: “Pretty quick, considering how serious the charges were,” Crisonino noted.
Nava did not testify at trial, but his daughter did.
“The strength displayed by the victim and her family throughout this difficult trial was extraordinary,” Chief Assistant Prosecutor John Flammer told BreakingAC. “Although disappointed with the jury’s verdict, we respect their decision and we will continue to seek justice for sexual assault victims.”
Nava, who is from Mexico, was released to Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Tuesday.
Crisonino said it was unlikely his client would be deported considering the verdict.
An ICE spokesman was not able to immediately obtain Nava’s status.
Nava would have to go through Family Court to get any potential visitation with the girl, his attorney said.
