Martinsburg, WV (JK) – A Berkeley County jury has convicted a Martinsburg man on multiple sexual offense charges involving children, following a three-day trial that brought forward allegations spanning several years.
54-year-old Paul Edward Ritenour Jr. was found guilty on 24 counts, including 12 counts of sexual abuse by a parent, guardian or custodian, 11 counts of first-degree sexual assault involving a child under the age of 12, and one count of second-degree sexual assault.
The verdict was returned April 2 in Berkeley County Circuit Court before Judge Debra McLaughlin. After the jury delivered its decision, Ritenour was taken into custody, where he will remain pending sentencing.
Prosecutors say Ritenour faces a possible prison sentence ranging from 355 to 1,040 years, followed by 50 years of supervised release. If released, he would also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
According to authorities, the case came to light after Ritenour’s prior legal troubles drew public attention. He is currently serving a separate two- to 10-year sentence stemming from a 2023 Berkeley County conviction for soliciting a minor via computer. Investigators say publicity surrounding that case prompted victims—now adults—to come forward and report abuse they say occurred when they were children.
Following the verdict, prosecutors expressed appreciation for the jury’s service and acknowledged the victims for coming forward.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 11 at 11 a.m.
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