Authorities in Cherokee County, N.C., have charged a 33-year-old Andrews man with sexually assaulting a minor.
Ryan Alexander Hamilton was arrested May 25 at his residence, Cherokee County Sheriff Derrick Palmer said in a statement. He is being held at the Cherokee County Detention Center on a $10,000 secure bond on a charge of sexual battery and assault on a female, Palmer said. Hamilton faces a June 12 date in district court.
The alleged assault was reported May 5 in Andrews triggering an investigation by the sheriff's office. HAVEN Child Advocacy Center assisted in the investigation, officials said. Investigators identified Hamilton as the suspect in the case. Information gathered during the investigation was presented to the North Carolina Magistrate who issued warrants for Hamilton's arrest, the sheriff said.
"We want to reach out and thank the staff of HAVEN for their invaluable assistance they provide, not only in this particular case but in all the cases," Palmer said.
To report suspicious activity or suspected violations of the law, submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov or call 828-837-3144.