Wisconsin man, 81, accused of sexually assaulting 5-year-old

RACINE, Wis. -- (WITI) -- Kenneth Hinkle, an 81-year-old man from Racine, is charged with first-degree child sexual assault.

According to the criminal complaint, the alleged crime happened at an apartment on Sunday, Sept. 2. A 5-year-old girl told her mom that “she went into an apartment with a man” and he then had inappropriate contact with the child. The complaint indicates the child was given candy by Hinkle. The child pointed out Hinkle to her mom.

When questioned by authorities, Hinkle stated he gave the child candy while she was in the hallway. He stated he suffers from “old age memory.” He denied having any inappropriate contact with the child, and “believed he was being blackmailed.” Hinkle was released at that time. On Sept. 10, officers returned and arrested Hinkle at his apartment.

If convicted on the charge, Hinkle faces up to 60 years in prison.