A Lancaster County man, Eric Dorwart, has been sentenced to 41 to 85 years in prison for sexually assaulting two children in 1997. The 56-year-old was found guilty of multiple charges, including rape of a child and aggravated indecent assault, after a jury trial in September. Dorwart's crimes remained unsolved for decades until DNA evidence collected from his trash matched DNA found on the victims' clothing.
The assaults occurred in April 1997 when Dorwart, a stranger to the victims, approached a seven-year-old girl and a five-year-old boy outside their Leacock Township home. According to the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office, Dorwart offered the girl money to perform sexual acts and then assaulted both children.
The case went cold for years until investigators identified Dorwart as a suspect in 2023. A search of his home revealed over 1,600 images of child pornography, including photos of Dorwart himself abusing children. Assistant District Attorney Fritz Haverstick described Dorwart's actions as "vile" and "wretched," highlighting the profound impact on the victims and their families.
Despite overwhelming evidence, Dorwart showed no remorse, maintaining his innocence during the trial. District Attorney Heather Adams expressed hope that the sentence would bring some peace to the victims, who are now in their mid-30s. The case underscores the importance of persistence in solving cold cases and ensuring justice for victims.