HENDRICKS COUNTY — A Tri-West High School student has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a 15-year old female.
Zachary Johnes was charged with sexual misconduct with a minor, a felony.
The Pittsboro Police officer who investigated the case also found probable cause for a sexual battery charge against Johnes, but it does not appear that charge was filed by prosecutors.
The alleged victim and the teenage boys were drinking alcohol at a residence.
Johnes told his friend he had sex with the female twice and that she “had said to stop but Johnes had not stopped,” court documents allege.
When police interviewed Johnes, Johnes said he had sex with the female twice but “it was not forced and the victim had not told Johnes to stop,” read court documents.
The female was 15 at the time and Johnes was 18, records show.
The female stated she did not remember what happened that evening, and wasn’t aware of a possible rape until October 9.
Johnes’ attorney Bradley Banks said he was working on the case and hoped to share more soon.
Banks said Johnes is still a student at Tri-West High School.
Donna Petraits, a district spokesperson for North West Hendricks School Corporation, released the following statement:
The Tri West guidance counselor followed appropriate protocol in immediately reporting the alleged incident to the NWHSC resource officer, who notified the Pittsboro police. We are aware Johnes has been charged and released on bail. The student is currently attending school part time with restrictions while awaiting any further legal action.
