New Hanover County man sentenced to up to 36 years for kidnapping, rape

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A New Hanover County man has been sentenced to decades in prison after being convicted on multiple felony charges, including kidnapping and rape.

The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office announced that Garrett Christopher Rogers, 26, was sentenced to a term of 25 to 36 years in prison following his conviction.

The charges stem from a 2021 investigation in which deputies responded to incidents involving the kidnapping and rape of two women. Investigators identified Rogers as the suspect.

Sheriff Ed McMahon praised the work of deputies, detectives and prosecutors, saying their efforts helped secure justice while sparing victims from having to testify in court.

“This conviction sends a strong message that violent crimes in our community will not be tolerated,” McMahon said in a statement. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our team and our valued partners in the District Attorney’s Office, as we continue to stand in support of victims.”

District Attorney Jason Smith also highlighted the collaboration between law enforcement and prosecutors.

“This office has long fostered the Police-Prosecutor Team Approach to cases, the benefits of which we see in the outcome of this case,” Smith said. “Thanks to ADA Connie Jordan’s close working relationship with Detective Benton, we were able to identify additional victims after the first report. This developed a case that led Rogers to accept responsibility for his actions against every victim.”

Rogers will begin serving his sentence immediately.