Upper Darby man found not guilty of child rape charges linked to his mother’s daycare.

A Delaware County judge has dismissed rape charges against William McGrath IV, a former county park police officer, after determining that the victim’s testimony regarding allegations of sexual assault lacked consistency when measured against corroborating evidence. McGrath, aged 31, faced accusations stemming from incidents allegedly taking place over a decade ago when the victim was just five years old. Judge Margaret J. Amoroso acquitted McGrath of multiple charges, including rape and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, following a brief hearing.

During the proceedings, Judge Amoroso expressed that the decision to dismiss the charges was not made lightly. She acknowledged the victim’s sincerity while highlighting the existence of reasonable doubt due to expert reports and witness testimonies that contradicted the victim’s account. This multifaceted evaluation of evidence ultimately led to the acquittal.

The legal proceedings initiated in May 2024 when the now 21-year-old woman approached Upper Darby police to report that McGrath had repeatedly assaulted her during her early childhood at a daycare operated out of his family’s home. McGrath has consistently denied the allegations against him.

In light of the verdict, McGrath’s attorney, Michael Noone, welcomed the court’s judgment, indicating that his client had endured a harrowing experience due to the accusations. He noted that McGrath’s family was visibly relieved, demonstrating their emotional investment in the case’s outcome through physical displays of support outside the courtroom.

During the trial, the victim testified that McGrath allegedly lured her to a basement space at the daycare with the promise of playing video games, where she reported the assaults took place. She further indicated that she had kept the abuse secret for years, citing feelings of fear and shame, before finally disclosing the incidents to her parents last year, especially as family plans developed that would involve McGrath’s family.

Defense attorney Noone raised doubts about the plausibility of the alleged events occurring in such confined settings, asserting that the basement was primarily utilized for storage and lacked the necessary conditions for any assaults to transpire unnoticed. A witness, McGrath’s brother, corroborated this assertion, which added to the defense’s case.

In a statement following the ruling, McGrath’s family expressed their relief, while also emphasizing their hope that the victim gets appropriate support and assistance. They criticized the pursuit of the case by the district attorney’s office, questioning its validity. The family reiterated their commitment to compassion and healing for everyone involved, showcasing a nuanced approach toward a complex and sensitive situation.

This case highlights the intricate dynamics often involved in legal battles surrounding allegations of sexual abuse, as well as the consequences for all parties involved. The court’s decision underscores the necessity of thorough scrutiny of evidence in such sensitive matters.

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