According to the Knoxville Police Department, a strange man reportedly attempted to touch a boy at the Lindsay Young Downtown YMCA. The incident occurred on Jan. 7 around 3 p.m.
The police report that they are searching for the man. The boy was apparently taking a shower when the man reached inside and attempted to touch him. The boy reportedly swatted his hand away. Family members and friends of the boy then chased the man away after he hurriedly put on his clothes. The boy’s father then told the YMCA staff, who called the police.
The YMCA states that it has reviewed security footage and believes that it knows who the suspect is. The organization states that it reviews its member lists each month to make certain that there are no sex offenders. It is unknown whether the suspect was a member or a guest at the YMCA.
Allegations of sexual misconduct may result in criminal charges and severe penalties if the people who are accused are convicted. People who are being investigated for sex offenses might want to talk to experienced criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible. Attorneys who are experienced in handling sex crimes cases can conduct thorough investigations in order to aggressively defend against the allegations. In some cases, they may be able to help their clients to avoid charges. If the charges have already been filed, the lawyers may work to secure favorable plea agreements with the prosecutor that would involve a plea of guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a reduced penalty.
Source: Knox News, “YMCA: Man tried to touch boy in shower; Knoxville police investigating,” Travis Dorman, Jan. 8, 2018