Parents accuse family friend of child molestation

Bloomington resident Everett Dawson, 42, faces two class A felony charges of child molestation after allegedly having relations with the 12-year-old daughter of friends, said Sgt. Steve Kellams of the Bloomington Police Department.

The victim told her parents Feb. 7 that she and Dawson had engaged in two separate sexual activities, Kellams said. Her parents confronted Dawson that night.

"When they confronted him, he left the residence, so they came to us," Kellams said.

The parents reported the molestation Feb. 8, and police interviewed the victim. The girl told police she and Dawson had had intercourse, Kellams said.

"There were several voice mail messages left (by Dawson) as well, saying he was in love with her and other inappropriate messages," Kellams said, though he could not say specifically whose phone Dawson had called.

Police arrested Dawson on Wednesday. During questioning, Dawson confirmed several details given to police by the victim, including the gifts he bought the victim for Valentine's Day — underwear and love notes.

Police did not book Dawson for sexual battery, however.

"There wasn't force or a rape," Kellams said.

However, 12-year-olds cannot legally give consent by Indiana law, Kellams said.

Dawson is currently being kept in the Monroe County Correctional Center.