Man Accused of Raping 10-Year-Old Chooses Trial

The trial for a Mentor man accused of raping a 10-year-old girl has been scheduled for late May.

Lake County Common Pleas Court Judge Joe Gibson said a plea deal had been in place for Nathaniel Hall, but it fell through at some point Monday morning. Hall's attorney, Justin Weatherly, confirmed as much in a brief statement, though provided little reasoning.

"Based on our discussions, it was my advice to my client that this plea agreement was in his best interest," Weatherly said. "He did indicate to me, unequivocally, that he was interested in pursuing this plea agreement — that was at a previous date.

"In discussing this case with him (on Monday), my client has indicated that he is either unable or unwilling to enter a plea in this case and that he would prefer to take this matter to trial."

Details of the deal were not disclosed. Hall pleaded not guilty earlier this year. A specific date for the May trial has not been established.

Mentor Police said the child had been sleeping at a Mentor home in October, but woke up to find 23-year-old Hall violating her. Hall was not a stranger to the child, but the relationship has not been revealed.

Hall did not speak at his change of plea hearing, other than to respond positively when Gibson asked if he was sure of what he was doing.

Hall has no previous criminal record.

A person convicted of raping someone younger than 13 can face a sentence of up to life in prison.