New Deputy Turns Tragedy Into Triumph

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Kara Robinson was 15 years old when she was raped by then-serial killer, kidnapper and rapist responsible for the deaths of multiple women.

What would transpire in the hours after her attack would lead her to where she is on Friday, graduating from law enforcement academy, vowing to protect and serve the community.

“It was something that happened to me.  It wasn’t really good, but I was able to take the positive away from it,” said Robinson.

The positive for Kara Robinson was to become a Richland County Sheriff’s deputy.  She added, “I believe everything happens for a reason.”

She was even presented the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy’s courage award Friday for her bravery, overcoming the odds,but on June 27, 2002, the odds were stacked against her.  She was kidnapped and sexually assaulted.  According to police, Kara’s attacker, then-38-year-old Richard Mark Evonitz, abducted her from a friend’s yard in Columbia.  He took her to his apartment, raped her and tied her to his bed.  While he slept that night, she was able to free herself and escape.

“I knew I was gonna survive,” said Robinson.  “I knew I would get away. I was able to recall vivid details to lead them to him.”

When he woke up and found Kara gone, police say he took off to Florida. There, a chase ensued – then a stand-off.

The ordeal ended when Evonitz shot and killed himself.

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott remembers the case. Kara Robinson was his last known victim.

“Only a few of us as the sheriff’s department knew what she went through, but we all adopted her and now very proud ofwhat she’s been able to accomplish.”

Kara’s caretakers then are now her comrades in law enforcement. The county in which she was assaulted – she now protects and serves.

“I never took it as a negative, never let it define me,” remarked Robinson.

Click on the video for more.  Monique Williams reports.