LAGRANGE, Ga. — LaGrange Police are asking for the public's help in finding a man they believe is accused of raping and sexually assaulting three children.
Authorities are searching for Jeremy Powell. Investigators believe the crimes have been happening for several years.
"We have reason to believe that he found out the police are investigating so that he took flight before we're able to locate him and apprehend him," LaGrange Police Detective David Horseman said.
Detectives also believe Powell knew the family of the children -- who were all siblings -- that he's accused of sexually assaulting.
"We respond to a call from a school counselor at a local elementary school. There's a student who came forward saying that she was sexually assaulted and then went on to report that her siblings were also assaulted as well," Horseman said.
According to the initial police report, it happened last Friday. Powell now faces three counts of felony sexual battery, two counts of child molestation and one count of rape.
"He doesn't have a license. And from what we're told, he doesn't drive. His only vehicles that he used were his mother's and his girlfriend's. And both of which they have cut ties with," Horseman said.
Horseman said Powell does have a criminal history but would not elaborate on the previous crimes. However, Horseman added there is no reason to believe Powell is a danger to the community.
Anyone with information about Powell's whereabouts is encouraged to call the LaGrange Police Department at (706) 883-2603 and you may be eligible for a cash reward.