By BRANDON MESSICK
Daily Press Staff Writer
On Sept. 11, the Artesia Police Department began investigating allegations of the sexual abuse of a 7-year-old girl. The child was interviewed at Esperanza House in Artesia, a confidential facility for child victims of abuse. The victim indicated to arresting Sgt. Jeffery Letcher that her foster parent, Todd Harper, 38, of Artesia, had “tickled her where he wasn’t supposed to.”
According to the victim, Harper had “tickled” her over her clothing on more than one occasion. The first time was while the two were alone at home. She told officers she wanted him to stop but was afraid he would become angry. The victim then stated Harper had removed her pants and rubbed her below the waist. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.
