Capt. Bill Hollenbeck of the Sebastian County Sheriff's Department said the abuse took place at Goff's home located between Greenwood and Booneville.
"Honestly I wanted to kill him (Goff). Children (are) the future and there's no telling what's going through the child's head," said Sherry Holmes, a woman who said she often watched the young victim.
Holmes said last week after spending time with another family friend, the 11-year-old girl refused to return to her house and later told Holmes that she was being sexually abused.
"It's difficult for all the investigators to work a case like this, but what's most important is that we focus on the safety of that child," Hollenbeck said.
Holmes took the girl to authorities after learning of the allegations against Goff. Hollenbeck said during interviews with investigators the girl revealed a history of sexually explicit behavior committed by Goff.
"This has been an ongoing series," Hollenbeck said. "She's 11 years of age and this probably started back when she was six."
The victim is now in the custody of The Arkansas Department of Human Services. Hollenbeck said if it weren't for the girl's trust in Holmes the abuse would likely be continuing.
"I told her she's got to keep saying her prayer to God," Holmes said. "He's already answered one prayer. He's got her the help."
Goff is being held at the Sebastian County Jail on a $25,000 bond.
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks