Asa Rueben South has been found guilty of third degree sexual abuse following an assault in August of 2016.

On Monday the jury deliberated for close to five hours before coming back with the guilty verdict just after 2 p.m. The verdict stems from an assault that took place in Knoxville in August of 2016. Knoxville officers responded to a call of an alleged assault that had taken place. Upon arrival, officers were told by an adult female that South had sexually assaulted and beaten her. The victim was transported to the Knoxville Hospital and Clinics and South was arrested and charged with sexual abuse in second degree, a class B felony. County Attorney Ed Bull tells KNIA/KRLS News he believes the jury did not find the victim’s injuries showed intent by South to cause a serious injury. Bull says he’s grateful the jury was able to see all the evidence and come to the conclusion they did. South will now face a sentencing hearing on Thursday, February 15th at 9:30 am. He faces a 10 year mandatory prison sentence, and must register as a sex offender upon release.