By SYDNEY KENT
A Bluffton man may spend the rest of his life in prison after allegedly repeatedly molesting a child.
Carter Talmidge Arnold, 66, pled guilty to child molesting, a Level 1 felony, and molesting a child under 14-years-old, a Level 4 felony, in the Wells Circuit Court last week. As part of the plea agreement, 16 additional charges were dismissed.
According to a probable cause affidavit, a victim related to Arnold reported that he would bribe her with drinks and snacks after he touched her inappropriately. He also threatened her with repercussions that would impact her day to day life significantly if she did not consent to the abuse. She said Arnold also suggested he would include her younger sibling in the abuse as the child grew up.
The victim told her friends about the ongoing sexual abuse that would take place at Arnold’s home after school, which was then reported to a trusted adult.
Arnold admitted to the allegations to officers investigating the case. He confirmed he created a bartering system where he would give the victim items such as candy, jewelry, and art supplies in exchange for enduring the abuse. Arnold also allegedly told officers he “tried not to” and that he has been single for over 20 years.
Upon conviction, a Level 1 felony carries a penalty of 20-40 years in prison. A Level 4 felony carries a possible prison sentence of 2-12 years, with an advisory sentence of six years. Arnold has been incarcerated at the Wells County Jail since his arrest in March, with a bond set at $260,000.
Due to his age, the amount of money required to post bail, and the potential prison time he is facing, it is likely Arnold will spend the remainder of his life incarcerated. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sept. 27 in the Wells Circuit Court.
sydney@news-banner.com
