BBBTV12 – Clinton, Tennessee – Following an investigation by the Oak Ridge Police Department, indictments were issued by the Anderson County Grand Jury in May 2019 against Brandon S. Pendergrass, 45, for three counts of rape. Mr. Pendergrass had remained out on bond since the charges were filed.

Prosecutors obtained convictions against Pendergrass, who raped a woman while she was unconscious. On December 20, 2024, following a three-day trial, Pendergrass was found guilty of three counts of rape. His bond was revoked, and he was taken into custody immediately. Judge Michael S. Pemberton has scheduled sentencing for March 6, 2025, at 2 p.m.

During the trial, Assistant District Attorneys Emily F. Abbott and Brandon K. Pelizzari explained to the jury that on October 20, 2017, the victim was raped by Pendergrass while she was inebriated and unconscious. The victim reported the crime to the police the following day, prompting Detective Craig to launch an investigation.

General Clark expressed gratitude to the Oak Ridge Police Department, Assistant District Attorneys Abbott and Pelizzari, Judge Pemberton, the Anderson County Criminal Court staff, and the jurors for their exceptional efforts during the investigation and prosecution of this case. Assistant Victim Witness Coordinator Katherine Sellers also provided crucial support in prosecuting the case.

General Clark remarked, “May the delivery of justice allow our victim to continue her recovery from the trauma she has suffered.”