Teen’s Call for Help Leads to Investigation of Alleged Assault

Authorities responded to a distress call in Lawrence County after a teenage girl sent a message to her mother stating she was trapped in a bathroom and needed help following an alleged attempted sexual assault. Disturbing Text Leads to Emergency Response According to law enforcement, the girl’s mother contacted dispatch after receiving a text from her daughter, stating that she was at a male acquaintance’s home and that he had attempted to assault her. The girl said she had locked herself in the bathroom and needed immediate assistance. Officers arrived at the residence to find the teen and the male suspect standing outside together. Authorities noted that the suspect appeared surprised by their presence and was carrying a firearm, which was immediately secured for safety during the investigation. The suspect was then detained in a patrol vehicle. Teen’s Account of the Incident The victim, who resides in West Virginia, told officers that she had met the suspect online about one to two months ago and had been communicating with him over Snapchat and Facebook. She reported that the suspect had expressed interest in a romantic relationship and that they had arranged for him to pick her up from school that day. She stated that the suspect, accompanied by his father as the driver, picked her up after school and took her to his home. Once there, she and the suspect went to his bedroom, where she claimed he touched her thigh near her groin, touched her upper chest/side, and kissed her. She said she froze up, unsure of how to respond, and then asked for her phone, which was lying nearby. Once she had her phone, she went into the bathroom and messaged her mother for help. Her grandfather later arrived to take her home. The teen requested to file a report, and officers provided her with a victim’s rights packet. Suspect’s Version of Events When interviewed, the suspect admitted to picking the girl up from school and bringing her home. He described cuddling with her on his bed, kissing her, and tickling her. He confirmed that he touched her thigh and side but denied any malicious intent. He also stated that she kissed him back and that when she asked for her phone, he gave it to her, not realizing she was planning to leave the room. The suspect’s father, who was home at the time, confirmed that the two went to the bedroom but stated that he did not hear anything unusual. Investigation Continues Authorities completed a report and forwarded it to the county prosecutor’s office for review. The case remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed at this time. Staying Safe: Advice for Young People Online connections can sometimes lead to uncomfortable or dangerous situations. Here are key safety precautions for young people when meeting new acquaintances: ✔ Meet in a Public Place – Always choose a well-lit, populated area for first meetings. Never go to someone’s home alone. ✔ Tell Someone Your Plans – Inform a trusted friend or family member about your location, who you’re with, and when you expect to return. ✔ Trust Your Instincts – If you feel uncomfortable or pressured, remove yourself from the situation immediately. ✔ Have an Escape Plan – Ensure you have a way to leave, whether it’s a phone, ride, or emergency contact. ✔ Call for Help – If you feel unsafe, call 911 or text a trusted adult. In situations of immediate danger, seek a safe space and alert authorities. For victims of assault or harassment, resources like the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) provide confidential support and guidance. Local law enforcement and crisis centers are also available to help.

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