Dugger man charged with child exploitation, molestation

L to R is ISP Master Trooper Tom Hanks, Willey, and ISP Investigative Sergeant Sam Stearley/ISP Photo

SULLIVAN COUNTY —  A Dugger man was  booked into the Sullivan County Jail today, facing allegations of child exploitation and child molestation.

Benjamin Willey,  38, 7792 E. CR 200 S. was arrested after police followed up on a community tip received early this month alleging molestation with a preteen girl. Indiana State Police investigators obtained the warrant to investigate alleged crimes of a sexual nature involving a 12-year-old victim. 

Reportedly, detectives from ISP Putnamville Post and ISP Internet Crimes Against Children and Cyber Crimes Squads descended upon Willey's  residence  to serve the warrant at around 11 a.m.

"During their investigation, ISP investigators found in excess of 15 digital images of a sexual nature involving young children. Investigators also developed information alleging the suspect engaged in sexual relations with a then 12-year-old female acquaintance of the family. It is believed the sexual relations and related crimes occurred between June 2015 and December 2015," ISP Sgt. Joe Watts said.

Watts explained that the ISP investigation began Feb. 4 at the request of the Sullivan County Department of Child Services.  Sullivan County DCS received a tip through the Indiana Department of Child Services Hotline, reporting the alleged sexual improprieties against the then 12 year-old-victim.

The case was investigated by ISP Detective Angie Hahn. Assisting at the scene were ISP Putnamville Troopers, ISP Crime Scene Investigators, ISP Crimes Against Children investigators, ISP Cyber Crimes Investigators, Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office and the Sullivan County Department of Child Services.

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