A man, accused of kidnapping a young woman from a Target lot, then robbing and raping her in May last year, was found guilt Friday by a jury.
Steve Cahanding, 43, was convicted by an Orange County jury on eight of night counts in connection with the rape, robbery and kidnapping. The jury heard testimony that Cahanding carried out these acts while threatening his victim with a firearm.
Defense attorney Blaine McChesney, failed to convince the jury that the victim was not kidnapped, as she was allowed to enter a bank alone, where she got help. Â Cahanding claimed the money was for buying drugs and the woman went willingly to the bank.
Assistant State Attorney, Kelly Hicks, said the evidence was very clear and the jury’s verdict reflected this.
Cahanding will be sentenced on November 17. Â He could face a life sentence with a minimum of 25-years in jail.
