Man charged with child sexual abuse

HARRISON — A 78-year-old man is in jail after he allegedly molested a small child.

The Harrison resident is charged with lewd conduct with a minor under the age of 16, a felony punishable by up to life in prison.

The Press is not naming the man at this time to protect the child’s privacy.

The charge stems from early May, when a 5-year-old child’s family noticed behavior that they said concerned them.

The child allegedly indicated the behavior was the result of being inappropriately touched by the 78-year-old man, court records said.

The family then contacted police.

During a forensic interview, the child reportedly did not disclose abuse. A medical exam showed no physical signs of trauma, according to court documents.

When interviewed by police, however, the man allegedly admitted to touching the child inappropriately on multiple occasions.

He reportedly said he was embarrassed about his actions and “knew what he did was wrong.”

Police arrested the man late Thursday.

Judge Robert Caldwell ordered Friday that the man be held on $150,000 bail.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, call Safe Passage Violence Prevention Center’s 24-hour hotline: 208-664-9303.