Man Who Faked Lack of Interest in Women Convicted of Game Night Rape in Peach County

FORT VALLEY, GA — A 25-year-old man was taken into custody Thursday after a Peach County jury found him guilty of raping a friend who had hosted him for a “game night” six years ago. Janylin Tywon Smith was convicted of one count of Rape on April 23, 2026, and now faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The conviction stems from an incident on the night of January 19, 2020. According to evidence presented at trial, Smith was attending a gathering at the victim’s residence. Witnesses testified that Smith was the only male in attendance that evening; the women present believed he was safe to have in the home because they were under the impression he was not attracted to women.

Breach of Trust and Discovery

During the gathering, the victim and her friends participated in a group game that involved consuming alcoholic beverages, leading to the victim becoming intoxicated. After she went to sleep, she woke up to find Smith lying in bed next to her. She discovered a used condom on a nearby desk and, upon going to the restroom, realized her underwear had been removed.

The victim, who experienced physical pain and had not consented to any sexual contact, eventually confronted Smith.

Digital Evidence and Confession

The prosecution utilized Smith’s own communications and statements against him during the trial:

• Text Admissions: When initially confronted by the victim, Smith sent a series of text messages apologizing for his actions.
• Law Enforcement Interview: In a subsequent interview with investigators, Smith admitted to having sexual intercourse with the victim. He disclosed that he had developed romantic feelings for her, despite knowing those feelings were not mutual.

Verdict and Statements

The trial saw law enforcement officers and witnesses travel from across the state of Georgia to provide testimony. Following the reading of the guilty verdict, Smith was immediately taken into custody.

District Attorney Anita Howard praised the victim’s courage in a statement following the conviction:

“A young woman who was violated by someone she trusted, in a place where she should have been safe, stood up and told her truth. She carried a burden that was never hers to carry, and she carried it with grace. My heart is with her as she continues to heal, and my commitment to survivors like her will never waver.”

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Taylor Wilson and Assistant District Attorney Hannah Frantz. Smith’s sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.