WYOMING COUNTY/Former Covington resident found guilty of rape in three-day jury trial

(Information from a provided press release)

On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Justin Tilton, a 39-year-old former resident of Covington, NY, was found guilty following a three-day jury trial before the Honorable Donald G. O’Geen.

Tilton was found guilty of Rape 1st degree, a Class “B” violent felony. Tilton was convicted of forcibly raping a 22-year-old female on or about May 13, 2024 in the Town of Covington in Wyoming County.

Tilton faces a sentence of between 5 years and 25 years in New York State Prison and between 5 years and 20 years of post-release supervision when he is sentenced. In addition, Tilton will have to register as a sex offender. After the jury trial was complete, Judge O’Geen revoked Tilton’s previously set bail and ordered him held without bail. The sentencing on this matter is scheduled for July 17th, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.

Tilton was arrested by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Warsaw Barracks. Also involved in this investigation was the GLOW Region Child Advocacy Center.

The case was prosecuted by First Assistant District Attorney Chelsie Hamilton. Wyoming County Assistant Public Defender Fares Rumi, Esq. represented the Defendant.

“I want to commend the bravery of the victim in this case in coming forward. I would also like to thank the New York State Police for their diligent investigation of this crime,” says District Attorney Vincent A. Hemming.