A 20-year-old Odin man has been formally charged in Marion County Court Thursday morning with criminal sexual abuse to a 13 to 17-year-old girl while being at least five years older.
Landon Furlong was ordered held without bond by Judge Christopher Hantla under the new pre-trial law during his first appearance in court.
Marion County State’s Attorney Tim Hudspeth said during a probable cause statement that the sex act had occurred at a home in Junction City on August 23rd where Furlong reportedly became drunk while celebrating his 20th birthday. Both had reportedly been lying on a bed before the incident.
Hudspeth said the incident had not been reported to the Marion County Sheriff’s Department until September 24th by a person who had seen snap chats made by the alleged victim and some of her friends.
The victim was interviewed by the Amy Center where she recounted what happened. Hudspeth says Furlong has admitted being at the home and knowing the victim.
Furlong was taken into custody on the charge Wednesday by the Junction City Police Department.
After probable cause was found, Furlong indicated he would hire his own attorney.
Hudspeth argued for Furlong to be detained saying Furlong was a threat to the 14-year-old and other teenage girls he may come into contact.
The public defender countered unsuccessfully that Furlong had no prior criminal record and there have been no further incidents since August without Furlong being in custody.
Furlong’s first appearance with his attorney is set for January 3rd.
