The long-delayed child rape case against 81-year-old Ezra Wright of Lucasville has taken a dramatic turn: just days before his jury trial was set to begin, Wright quietly accepted a plea deal that officially designates him as a Tier II child sex offender for life.
Wright had been scheduled to face a jury on November 24, but court records now show that the trial has been cancelled. Instead, Wright signed documents admitting guilt to a sex offense involving a child, triggering mandatory lifetime registration requirements with in-person verification every 90 days.
At this time, court records do not specify which of the original charges Wright pleaded guilty to or what sentence he will receive. SCDN will continue to monitor the docket for updates.
A Case That Shocked Scioto County
Wright’s case first made headlines in July 2024, when a grand jury indicted him on 12 counts of rape involving conduct that allegedly occurred over a two-year period roughly three decades ago.
The arrest quickly turned dramatic. When deputies went to the Wright residence, his wife, 80-year-old Carolyn Wright, insisted he wasn’t home and had “gone fishing.” Deputies remained skeptical, and after spotting a van leaving the property, they pulled it over. The passengers confirmed Wright was at the house.
Fearing the elderly couple might attempt suicide, officers forced their way inside and found them hiding in a bedroom. Both were taken into custody—Ezra on rape charges, and Carolyn on obstruction charges for impeding the investigation.
Wright was declared indigent, and the county indigent fund ultimately paid his bail. Judge Howard Harcha set bond at $100,000, requiring Wright to wear an ankle monitor and avoid drugs and alcohol.
Trial Delays and Legal Battles
Wright’s trial was originally set for January 2025, but was delayed after his attorney demanded the names of every medical or mental health professional who had ever treated the victim. The court ruled the victim could not be compelled to disclose that information.
A motion from prosecutors to consolidate Wright’s trial with his wife’s obstruction case also remains pending.
With the latest plea agreement, however, Wright’s long-awaited trial will not take place.
What Happens Next
Though Wright has admitted guilt to at least one felony sex offense, the court has not yet released details on sentencing. As a Tier II child sex offender, he will be required to register for the rest of his life, checking in with authorities every 90 days.
SCDN will continue watching for updates, including sentencing information and the status of Carolyn Wright’s charges.
