West Warwick Man Convicted For Sexually Assaulting Woman And Cyberstalking Her

WEST WARWICK, RI — A West Warwick man was convicted after sexually assaulting a woman, Attorney General Peter Neronha said Friday.

David Water, 29 was found guilty Thursday in Kent County Superior Court of first-degree sexual assault and cyberstalking and cyberharassment, following a three-day trial. Prosecutors said Waters is being held without bail at the Rhode Island Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston, until his sentencing hearing at a later date.

"The victim’s decision, in this case, to bravely confront the defendant demonstrates the powerful impact of victim testimony," Neronha said. "It isn’t always easy to come forward, but often it helps bring criminals to justice. The defendant here committed a terrible act of sexual violence and then used that criminal act to harass the victim and inflict further trauma upon her, actions that are deserving of a significant jail sentence."

During the trial, state prosecutors proved that on July 12, 2021, Water sexually assaulted a woman he knew, and then cyberharassed her on Aug. 28, 2021.

Following the sexual assault, Water sent the victim hundreds of text messages. Prosecutors said many of the text messages referenced the sexual assault, and some included threats of harm against the victim and her family.

"Cases involving sexual assault are some of the most difficult cases investigated by the men and women of West Warwick Department," West Warwick Police Chief Ernest Lavigne said. "Our thoughts remain with the victim and her loved ones at this time. I am proud of the work of our team in bringing the defendant to justice in this case, and their work every day to keep the residents of West Warwick safe."

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