We have more news on the 77-year old suspect charged with the sexual battery of a little girl who is under the age of 8.
Ellis Hardin, age 77, has been charged with Aggravated Sexual Battery of a girl under 8 years old by the La Vergne Police Department. Hardin was arrested on May 25, 2013 following a four-month investigation of a child sexual assault complaint.
The La Vergne Criminal Investigation Division and Crime Suppression Unit officers conducted a joint operation to investigate the complaint at 158 Chaney Blvd. During the investigation, officers found the allegations to be credible and obtained a felony arrest warrant for Aggravated Sexual Battery, a Class B Felony. Hardin is currently being held at the Rutherford County Jail on $200,000.00 bond.
Hardin is not a registered sex offender, however the investigation is ongoing and police anticipate that more charges will be filed in the future.
“This is one of the worst possible crimes that can be committed,” said Sgt. John Eubank of the Criminal Investigation Division. “Although every child who has been molested reacts differently, parents and guardians should be aware of any behavioral changes in the child. Talk to your children and listen to them. Then if you suspect your child has been a victim of child sex abuse, contact the proper police authority in your jurisdiction.”
In this case, people are asked to contact Sgt. Eubank if they have children who have had contact with Hardin and they suspect any criminal activity. Sgt. Eubank can be reached at (615) 287-8667.
“We will continue to seek out sexual predators and prosecute them to the fullest extent the law allows,” said Police Chief Mike Walker. “Crimes committed against children are reprehensible and repulsive to say the least, and we will always make them a top priority in our department.”
Source:
Kathy Tyson, LaVergne, TN, PR Director / PIO
Rutherford County Sheriff's Office
