A man from Lawrence County is facing charges related to child sexual offenses following a report of abuse made to the police by the children’s division.
Authorities in Lawrence County took Eric Hankins, 46, into custody on Friday, facing charges related to statutory sodomy and child molestation.
Hankins faces allegations of sexually abusing a girl who is younger than 12.
In September, authorities were alerted following a child’s report that Hankins had engaged in inappropriate touching on multiple occasions.
Officials report that during a forensic interview at the Monett Children’s Center, the child described Hankins as a “weirdo.”
The mother of the child informed officers that Hankins had been a long-time friend and often babysat for her.
The mother allegedly confronted Hankins, stating that he never denied it to officials.
He is currently in custody at the Lawrence County Jail without the option for bond.