Athens police officer Kristen "Kris" Ward arrested on child molestation charges

Mike Gallagher

May 14, 2015 - 07:07

May 14, 2015 - 07:11

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Athens police officer Kristen "Kris" Ward arrested on child molestation charges

Kristen Matthew "Kris" Ward

Police say an Athens-Clarke County police officer has been arrested for child molestation after a juvenile victim reported a sexual assault several years ago.

The Athens Banner-Herald reports the victim came forward with his allegations against Senior Police Officer Kristin Matthew "Kris" Ward last month. The 26-year-old officer was arrested Tuesday on charges including child molestation and aggravated sexual battery.

In a court hearing Tuesday, a judge denied Ward bond.

According to arrest warrants, the victim was under 16 years old when he says he was assaulted by Ward between 2010 and 2011. The victim was a cadet with the Civil Air Patrol, a U.S. Air Force auxiliary. Ward was commander of the unit.

Defense attoey Morris Wiltshire says the criminal charges are solely based on the victim's allegations.

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Mike Gallagher Mike Gallagher is a Georgia-based freelance journalist covering local news, community developments, and regional issues that matter most to residents across the state. Writing for Georgianewsday.com since 2016, Mike has built a reputation for clear, balanced reporting and a strong connection to the communities he serves. His work spans city council decisions, school board updates, small business features, public safety reports, and statewide policy changes. In addition to local coverage, Mike occasionally reports on state politics and national headlines, offering readers context on how broader decisions impact Georgia communities. Known for his steady, fact-driven approach, Mike prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and accessibility in every story. Whether covering a town hall meeting or breaking political developments, he aims to inform readers with clarity and integrity. Outside the newsroom, Mike remains actively engaged in Georgia’s civic landscape, always seeking the next story that shapes the state’s future.