A Koshkonong resident was arrested April 10 after allegedly perpetrating a sexual assault on a teenage family member.
Gary Cope Jr., 41, is charged with two counts of first-degree sodomy or attempted sodomy, two counts of incest and one count of second-degree child molestation where the victim is younger than 17.
An investigation began April after the Howell County Sheriff's Department was made aware of allegations and assisted the Children's Division with a hotline call made by a school counselor the victim confided in, and the victim was interviewed at the Child Advocacy Center.
According to court documents, the incidents happened Monday and when Howell County Deputy Tessa Jens spoke with Cope about the allegations he admitted to the assault, captured on Jens' body cam.
During an attempted second law enforcement interview Cope reportedly invoked his right to speak to an attorney.
He posted a $250,000 bond on April 11 and has not secured legal representation as of Friday afternoon, according to court records. The case is being prosecuted by Howell County Prosecutor Mike Hutchings and Assistant Prosecutor Rizwhan Ahad.
Editor’s note: In cases of abuse, and particularly when children are involved, the Quill makes every effort to protect the identities of potential victims, including withholding names, ages and specific details that could be used to identify them. Due to the nature of some alleged crimes, however, at times, minors may still be identifiable. The Quill endeavors to make this as difficult as possible for their privacy.
See something, say something: If you suspect a child is being abused, call the Missouri Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline, 800-392-3738. If you are experiencing domestic or sexual violence, or if you’re a survivor of the same needing support, call Christos House’s hotline, 800-611-5853.
