Billings Will Spend Life In Prison

Jurors made it official, Dwayne Billings will be spending life in prison for sexually assaulting and kidnapping a nine year old autistic girl back in 2007. It was a good day for the District Attorney's office, who say this isn't only a win for the girls family, but a win for the people of Ector County.

It took 3 years for this case to finally see a jury.

"We're glad that we got here and that hes gone," Bobby Bland, District Attorney of Ector County.

And now, 26 year old Dwayne Billings will be taking this truck to his new home, prison.

"The defendant got a life sentence in the case and that's what he deserves," said Bland.

Prosecutor Scott Layh agrees. He says when they put the now 13 year old girl on the stand, her testimony was all the jury really needed to hear.

"Her memory was absolute, she remembered in great detail what happened to her, and she did so without wavering," said Prosecutor Scott Layh.

Layh said that when Billings took the stand, he only dug himself a deeper hole.

"He confessed numerous times," said Layh.

During the trial, Billings even confessed to reporters on tape, one time he said,

"In his own words, if were to ever get out of jail, he might do this again," said Layh.

The girls father was in court today but didn't want to talk to our cameras. But Layh says he hopes they can move forward, but understands they won't ever forget what happened in this trailer back in 2007.

"I don't think you can ever really find peace, but hopefully they'll understand that justice has been served and move on with their lives," said Layh.

We tried to reach defense attorney David Zavoda, so he could comment on the verdict, but he couldn't be reached. Dwayne Billings has said numerous times throughout this trial that he is afraid for his life in prison. Zavoda, says he will appeal this case.

Jackie Smith can be reached at jsmith@kmid.tv.