Marquand man charged with statutory rape

Ty Alexander, 31, of Marquand has been charged with statutory rape, endangering the welfare of a child and distributing a controlled substance to a child, which are all felonies.

According to a Fredericktown Police Department statement, during a Feb. 21, 2014 interview with the Children’s Advocacy Center in Farmington, the alleged 15-year-old victim described the incident, which she said took place at a party, January 16, 2014.

The police report also states Alexander came to the police department Feb. 25, 2014, and admitted to bringing a pipe, which contained marijuana to the party and sharing it with the victim. The report states Alexander did not admit to the sexual allegations against him.

During his initial court appearance last week, Alexander pled not guilty and filed for a public defender, for which Associate Circuit Judge Robin Fulton said he believed Alexander qualified.

Alexander also asked for a bond reduction, but Fulton said he had to have it in writing five days prior to the hearing before he could rule on it.

“We have to give the victims written notice,” said Fulton.

Alexander’s bond is currently set at $25,000, cash only. His next court appearance is set for 9 a.m. March 13 at the Madison County Courthouse.