Bradenton fugitive convicted of raping woman faces judge in Bradenton

BRADENTON -- A Bradenton fugitive, convicted of raping a woman, who fled before the conclusion of his trial, is now back in Manatee County being held without bond as he awaits sentencing.

Robert Earl Williams, 40, failed to show up in court March 9 for the final day of his trial on a 2012 sexual battery with a firearm charge.

As Williams had been warned it would, the trial resumed without him and the jury convicted him of a lesser charge. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest.

Williams was found April 13 by the U.S. Marshals Service at a hotel in Omaha, Neb., and arrested on two outstanding warrants for contempt of court.

Williams arrived Tuesday at the Manatee County jail to face his charges and sentencing for his recent conviction.

Williams is facing a maximum of 15 years in prison.

On Wednesday afternoon, he appeared via video conference before Circuit Judge Diana Moreland. Moreland ordered Williams held without bond.

Williams, who did not fight extradition to Manatee County, stood quietly only speaking to confirm his identity to Moreland and that he understood his rights.

Moreland also ordered Williams continue to have no contact with the victim. She also continued the appointment of a public defender through the office of regional counsel.

Williams is still set to stand trial for another 2012 sexual battery with a firearm charge.

If convicted in that case, Williams would face life in prison.

Jessica De Leon, Herald law enforcement reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7049. You can follow her on Twitter@JDeLeon1012.

This story was originally published April 20, 2016 at 11:52 PM with the headline "Bradenton fugitive convicted of raping woman faces judge in Bradenton ."