Child Molester Pleads to Twelve-Year Sentence

Prosecutors in District Attorney General Charme Allen’s Child Abuse Unit obtained convictions today against a man who molested an eleven-year-old child. William Edward Varnado, 46, pled guilty to two counts of Aggravated Sexual Battery, Statutory Rape by an Authority Figure, and Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure. Varnado received a sentence of twelve years to serve in prison without the possibility of parole.

In a hearing before Judge Scott Green, Assistant District Attorney Joanie Stewart explained to the Court that beginning in January 2013, Varnado molested an eleven-year-old sixth grader. This continued for a year and a half until the victim wrote a letter to his parents disclosing the abuse. The victim’s parents alerted authorities at the Department of Children’s Services and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. Det. Gabe Mullinax interviewed Varnado who admitted molesting the victim on four occasions.

“We have a duty to protect children from those who abuse them,” said DA Allen.”This sentence will ensure Varnado will never harm this child again.”

Aggravated Sexual Battery is a Class B felony that carries a punishment between eight and twelve years. After serving his twelve-year sentence, Varnado will be required to register with the Tennessee Sex Offender Registry.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.