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Ross Twp. rape suspect representing self during trial questions alleged victims

PITTSBURGH — A Pittsburgh-area man charged with raping three women last year has been facing his accusers in court, cross-examining them as he stands trial.

Arthur Lamont Henderson, 39, went on trial Tuesday on charges he raped two women in their Ross Township apartments, just north of the city, and a third woman in Hopewell Township.

Allegheny County prosecutors said the rapes occurred last January.

Assistant District Attorney Laura Ditka told the jurors that the victims' lives were "shattered by the selfish, despicable acts of Arthur Henderson."

Henderson has denied raping the women. Common Pleas Judge Donna Jo McDaniel has ordered Henderson to remain seated as he questions his accusers.

Channel 11's Cara Sapida reported that Henderson asked one of the women if they, "had sex."

Through tears, the woman responded, "No. You raped me in my infant's room."

Prosecutors also introduced what they called a key piece of evidence Wednesday.

Surveillance video from inside the Rivers Casino on the morning of the first alleged attack was played in court Wednesday.

Investigators said it shows Henderson circling the parking lot in his car, and eventually following another car out of the garage.

According to investigators, Henderson then followed the woman in the car to her Hopewell home, snuck inside and raped and robbed her.