Ohio Man Sentenced for 12-Year Campaign of Terror Against Actress Eva LaRue and Daughter
On September 12 (Reuters) – An Ohio man accused of threatening and stalking television actress Eva LaRue and her daughter for 12 years has been sentenced to over three years in federal prison, prosecutors announced.
James David Rogers, 58, waged a relentless campaign of harassment via letters and phone calls, issuing threats of torture, rape, and death. This disturbing behavior began in March 2007 and continued unabated until his arrest in November 2019. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles highlighted the emotional toll of Rogers’ actions, stating, “His vicious and relentless harassment left emotional scars on Ms. LaRue and her daughter, the latter of whom has endured his abuse for most of her life.” They expressed hope that the sentencing would bring some measure of peace and closure to the victims.
U.S. District Judge John Kronstadt sentenced Rogers to 40 months in prison on Thursday. In April, Rogers pleaded guilty to two counts of mailing threatening communications, one count of threats by interstate communications, and two counts of stalking. The FBI conducted the investigation that led to his arrest and conviction.
During the sentencing hearing, Rogers offered a remorseful apology, saying, “I sincerely apologize for what I did for the last 12 years, putting you and your family through hellish behavior.” He explained that his abusive upbringing, bullying in school, and ongoing mental health treatment contributed to his actions.
Eva LaRue is best known for her longtime role on “All My Children” and her work on the investigative drama series “CSI: Miami.”
