Sexual charges increased for Tackett

Charges have been upped against a man allegedly caught in the act of molesting a 6-year-old girl, charges which could put him away for most of his life if he is convicted.

The defendant, Troy M. Tackett, 34, was indicted on three counts of aggravated sexual battery, which carry three to six years apiece, and one count of rape of a child which carries 15 to 25 years. He remains held awaiting arraignment in circuit court.

The upping of the charges happened during the grand jury meeting as Tackett was originally charged with two counts of aggravated sexual battery. However, evidence presented as to the molestation convinced the panel to add a third aggravated sexual battery count and the most serious child rape count.

The charges come after the little girl’s mother walked in to find her daughter being fondled by Tackett. The girl, who had been left in the care of Tackett, a family member, was found on top of the suspect on a bed, wearing little clothing.

The multiple counts each refer to the single encounter, but cover different types of fondling and molestation.