Attorney Adam Banks said his client, Ayers Ratliff, was found not guilty of rape, abduction and gross sexual imposition following a trial in Marion County.
The case stemmed from a complaint alleging Ratliff raped a girl under the age of 15 at his home. Investigators said the girl told a friend, who reported the claims to a school guidance counselor the next day, prompting police involvement.
This was the second time Ratliff faced rape-related charges involving a teenager. He was first indicted in August 2024 on counts of rape, gross sexual imposition and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Those charges were dismissed in January 2025 after prosecutors said new potential criminal conduct had surfaced.
Ratliff was indicted again in August 2025, leading to the case that ended in Tuesday’s acquittal.
He has since filed a civil rights lawsuit against Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan and several assistant prosecutors, claiming their actions were politically motivated. In his complaint, Ratliff — a Democrat — alleges he lost multiple jobs, was falsely imprisoned and that his wife was forced to close her day care business as a result of the accusations.
Ratliff’s wife, Heidi Ratliff, also faces charges in connection with the case. Her trial is set to begin Feb. 17.