Eagle Point man found guilty of sex abuse and burglary

An Eagle Point man who stalked his neighbor and blamed his behavior on a brain tumor was found guilty Monday of attempted second-degree sexual abuse and first-degree burglary.

Last week, Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Patricia Crane told Stephen Henry Smith, 59, that she didn't believe a tumor would cause his behavior. At the end of a day-long trial Wednesday, she ruled that Smith was guilty of stalking.

However, Crain said she needed more time to decide whether Smith was guilty of sex abuse charges and burglary.

The victim testified during Wednesday's trial that Smith entered her home on Dry Creek Road on April 2 after her husband left for work.

Smith told the woman, "I want to be with you" and took off his clothing before crawling into her bed.

The 28-year-old woman screamed, turned on the light and fled the room, checking on her children and then calling the police.

Sheriff deputies found Smith at his home a short distance away, getting ready to leave town.

The victim testified that Smith had been bothering her since February, repeatedly driving and walking by her property and attempting to engage her in conversation.

Smith was diagnosed with the brain tumor while in jail. It was removed at a cost of more than $186,000 to taxpayers.

After finding Smith guilty Monday, Crain ordered a pre-sentencing investigation, which could take more than four weeks to complete.

Deputy District Attorney Tim Barnack said he was pleased with Crain's decision.

"I'm sure the victim is obviously pleased," he added.