Jerry Lee Fagen remains in the Paulding County Detention Center after a magistrate judge denied bond today for the man accused of child molestation and sexual battery against his 8-year-old step-daughter, authorities said.
Fagen, 30, turned himself into the Paulding County Sheriff's Office Sunday after fleeing Georgia to Arizona with his wife, 26-year-old Casey Lynn Fagen; the 8-year-old step-daughter he is accused of molesting; and the couple's 1-year-old son.
Casey Fagen and the two children were found Friday night near Phoenix, Ariz., where police say the family was staying with Casey Fagen's relatives, according to Paulding County Sheriff's Office Cpl. Brandon Gurley.
Arizona's Maricopa County sheriff's spokesman Doug Matteson said deputies surrounded the Youngton home after receiving a tip Friday night and broke down the door, finding the three inside, according to the Associated Press.
The girl's long brown hair had been nearly shaved to alter her appearance, Gurley said, though it is unclear who cut her hair.
The children were taken into Arizona Child Protective Services, which will coordinate with Georgia authorities regarding their fate. Gurley said Casey Fagen is also still in Arizona.
Police believe the family had been in the Phoenix area as of May 10. It's unclear how long Fagen remained with the family, or when he left to return to Georgia.
No charges have yet been filed against Casey Fagen, though Gurley said the investigation continues.
The girl first reported abuse to teachers at Baggett Elementary School, who contacted the Department of Family and Children Services.
DFCS contacted the sheriff's office on April 17. Warrants for Fagen's arrest were issued on May 19 after the investigation was completed, Gurley said.
The girl was last seen on April 28 at Baggett Elementary and was withdrawn from school by her maternal grandmother on April 30, according to authorities.
Police continue to investigate the case to determine whether additional charges are needed.
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