Child molester violates probation from river
A convicted child molester violated his probation without touching dry land as the court sent him back to jail for contacting the victim’s family while he was on a boat.
The defendant, Frank H. Cherry, 68, was ordered to serve 120 days in jail before being released back on probation, where he will spend the remainder of his eight-year sentence.
He is under the eight-year sentence for fondling a 14-year-old female family member during 2003. The incident involved inappropriate touching. Cherry reportedly confessed to authorities when questioned and said he needed help.
His violation came recently as he was floating down Barren Fork River on a fishing trip. During his outing, Cherry reportedly saw a close relative of the victim, playing in a yard on the banks of the river. Cherry shouted out to the child and began talking from the boat. The conversation was witnessed by adults who turned Cherry in for his actions.
Under the terms of his probation, Cherry could have no contact with the victim or her family during his probation. Given the fact the contact was not extreme and the victim’s family merely wanted the court to be aware of Cherry’s breach of faith, the elderly probationer did not have his entire probation violated, but instead will be required to serve just a portion of his time.
A further violation of the conditions, however, would likely lead to his incarceration for his entire eight-year sentence.