Jury selected for trial of man accused of child rape

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

A jury of seven women and five men will decide the fate of a Boardman man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl.

Eric Damore, 44, of Firnley Avenue could face life in prison if found guilty on felony rape charges. A Mahoning County grand jury also indicted Damore on a charge of gross sexual imposition.

In October 2014, the girl, who is related to Damore, spent the night at his house. When she returned home, she told her mother Damore did sexual things to her, prosecutors said.

A grand jury indicted Damore in February 2016. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Jury selection began Tuesday morning in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court, and by late afternoon a panel of 12 jurors and two alternates was selected. Judge Anthony D’Apolito will preside.

Beginning at 9 a.m. today, the prosecutor and the defense will deliver opening statements to the jury, and the prosecution will begin to call witnesses.

Court officials said the trial is expected to last about two days.