Pullman man ordered to serve a year in prison for rape

Erick Leal, 26, received a one-year prison sentence for raping a fellow student at Washington State University in 2024. A Whitman County jury convicted him of third-degree rape, and Judge Roger Sandberg delivered the maximum sentence after a week-long trial. The judge emphasized the severe consequences of such actions, highlighting the emotional toll on the victim and her family. Leal's attorneys had requested a nine-month sentence, citing his clean criminal record prior to this incident. However, the testimonies presented led the judge to align with the prosecution's recommendation for the maximum sentence.

Upon release, Leal must register as a sex offender for ten years and will be under the supervision of the Department of Corrections. Additionally, a sexual assault protection order was issued for the victim post-conviction. This case underscores the ongoing challenges and consequences of sexual assault within university settings.