Allegations of molestation, rape, exposure lead to charges

By LEONARD GRAY

Managing Editor

HAHNVILLE — Three arrests were made this week by the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office on warrants for various sex crimes reported in recent months.

John Blank, 40, of 1546 Natchez Lane, LaPlace, was charged with molestation of a juvenile. The warrant, issued on July 31, stated that Blank allegedly fondled a 13-year-old in an inappropriate manner on July 28. He was held in Jefferson Parish and returned to St. Charles to face the charge.

Donald Smith, 18, of 231 Post St., Killona, was charged with indecent behavior with juveniles and obscenity after he allegedly pulled his pants down and fondled himself in front of three Killona juveniles on the morning of July 31. He was arrested later that same day.

Terrance Smith, 20, of 1154 Paul Fredrick St., Luling, was charged with aggravated rape of a 12-year-old. Department spokesman Dwayne LeGrange said he could not state when the original incident occurred, but the allegation was made in April and a warrant was issued on July 19. He was charged with having sexual intercourse with the 12-year-old, and because of the victim’s age, the charge is aggravated rape.

The victim is presently 14 years old, LeGrange said. Smith surrendered to the sheriff’s office on Tuesday and booked accordingly.