More than two dozen people filled half the Kosciusko Municipal Court gallery last week for the arraignment of Louise Miller, 68, of Kosciusko, who is charged with “molesting, touching of a child for lustful purposes,” according to police records.
Dew said the charges against Miller stem from a sworn affidavit dating back to November.
“We received a report in November of this alleged crime and since then, a forensic interview has been completed and an affidavit has been signed by the parent,” Dew said. “Talks with her counsel resulted in her turning herself in.”
A bond in the case was originally set by the court at $40,000, but Miller’s attorney Richard Carter asked the court for a reduction – which was granted – to $20,000.
Had Carter’s preliminary request for the bond reduction been denied, Miller’s supporters who were there said they were prepared to testify on her behalf during a bond hearing. That proved unnecessary.
“Ms. Miller adamantly denies these preposterous allegations. She is so very thankful for all of her family and friends that believe in her and stand beside her during this time,” said Carter. “We are hopeful that justice will be had in this matter very soon, resulting in dismissal of all charges against her.”
Linda Teague, Miller’s sister, said she does not believe the charges are accurate.
“I don’t believe these charges. I think it is just someone trying to get back at her,” she said. “They aren’t true. She couldn’t hurt anybody. She’s a gentle person. She wouldn’t even hurt your feelings,” she said.
“She raised four children of her own, my son and two of her grandchildren,” said Teague, who said the grandchildren were in her sister’s care while both of their parents served overseas in the military for a year.
Further details of the alleged crime are not being published in an effort to protect the alleged victim.
A preliminary hearing was set by Kosciusko Municipal Judge L. Scott Pickle for February 20.
