3:06pm: Hotline with Dave Weekley

Fayette County couple in custody for alleged sex crimes

POWELLTON, W.Va. — A Fayette County couple was arrested on various sex charges this week in the wake of possible sexual abuse of a minor child at a Powellton area.

Robert Tucker, 47, of Powellton was arrested Wednesday and charged with six counts of sexual abuse by a parent, guardian or person in position of trust, two counts of first degree sexual assault and four counts of second degree sexual assault.

Lori Barrett, 37, also of Powellton, was arrested Thursday and charged with two counts of gross child neglect creating risk of injury or death.

Police learned that another child, now an adult, also made allegations of sex crimes against Tucker. In both instances, police say that Barrett attempted to cover the crimes and protect Tucker from arrest.

“Nearly everyone is considered to be a mandatory reporter when it comes to issues of child abuse, child neglect and child sexual abuse,” said Fayette County Prosecuting Attorney Larry Harrah in a statement. “If you learn of a child being sexually abused and choose to do nothing about it, don’t be surprised if we come knocking on your door with a warrant for your arrest. Our children are precious, and it is everyone’s job to help keep them safe.”

The matter is still under investigation by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department.





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