William Rhinaman, technology director at Steubenville City Schools, was arrested on Monday for allegedly attempting to cover up evidence related to the rape of a 16-year old girl by two football players last year.
In an indictment released Tuesday, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine stated that the Steubenville grand jury was investigating whether any other crimes were committed in connection with the Aug. 11 2012 rape. Rhinaman was indicted based on charges of tampering with evidence, obstructing justice, obstructing official business, and perjury.
The nature of the evidence tampered with is not yet known, however, if convicted, Rhinaman could face a sentence of up to four years—a longer sentence than the two convicted boys are serving, CNN reports. The football players convicted of the rape, Ma’lik Richmond and Trenton Mays, are serving just one and two years respectively for their crime.
Rhinaman’s arraignment will be on Wednesday, and according to Bob Fitzsimmons, the attorney who represented the 16-year old rape victim, it is a significant step in the right direction. Fitzsimmons stated, "I think it's important that this shows some fruits from the investigative grand jury and also considers the importance of those responsible for reporting and/or preserving evidence after a crime is committed involving a child, in this case a girl 16 years of age."