Shelby County jury convicts Memphis man on child rape and sexual battery charges; sentencing pending

Verdict follows three-day trial in Shelby County

A Shelby County jury has convicted Memphis resident JP Burrow on multiple felony counts, including two counts of rape of a child, two counts of aggravated sexual battery, and one count of sexual battery by an authority figure. The verdict was returned after a three-day trial in Shelby County Criminal Court.

Prosecutors said the case involved two child victims and alleged abuse occurring when the girls were between the ages of 6 and 13. During the trial, Burrow testified in his own defense, but jurors found him guilty on all counts presented.

How the case began and what the convictions mean

Investigators traced the case back to a report filed with the Memphis Police Department in 2021 that alleged forcible rape and forcible sodomy. The report led to Burrow’s arrest and the subsequent prosecution.

The convictions span several charges under Tennessee law that carry significant potential prison exposure, particularly for rape of a child. Court and prosecution statements characterized the matter as a “Range 2” case, a designation used in Tennessee’s sentencing structure that can increase the length of punishment based on qualifying factors.

• Rape of a child: The jury returned guilty verdicts on two counts tied to the two victims.

• Aggravated sexual battery: Two guilty verdicts were returned on charges alleging unlawful sexual contact under aggravating circumstances.

• Sexual battery by an authority figure: The jury also convicted Burrow on one count alleging sexual contact committed by a person in a position of authority over a victim.

Sentencing date set

Sentencing has been scheduled for March 21, 2025. At sentencing, the court is expected to consider the statutory ranges attached to each conviction, along with any applicable enhancements and whether any sentences will run concurrently or consecutively.

The jury’s verdict resolves the question of guilt; the next court stage will determine the length and structure of the sentence.

Broader context: child sexual abuse cases in court

Child sexual abuse prosecutions typically involve complex evidentiary questions, including victim testimony, investigative records, and corroborating details developed during interviews and follow-up inquiries. In this case, prosecutors described the proof as including victim testimony and investigative findings. The defense presented Burrow’s testimony, but jurors ultimately credited the prosecution’s proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Following sentencing, the case may proceed to post-trial motions and, if filed, appellate review under Tennessee’s criminal appeals process.