McKinney indicted for sex abuse

A Red Bay businessman accused of sexually abusing a female employee was indicted by a recent grand jury, courthouse officials said.

Theron McKinney, 70, 690 Baggett Rd., Vina, was indicted for first-degree sexual abuse, Franklin County District Attorney Joey Rushing said.

According to Rushing, the indictment stemmed from an incident that allegedly took place in May 2013.

Red Bay Police Chief Janna Jackson said the victim was a former employee at McKinney’s business, McKinney RV, located on Hospital Road in Red Bay.

Jackson said the alleged incident occurred on May 29 at a warehouse located at the business.

Jackson said the witness stated that while she was working in the warehouse, McKinney approached her and began to touch her inappropriately. Jackson said the witness told McKinney to stop but he did not comply.

The day after the incident occurred, Jackson said the victim filed a report with the Red Bay Police Department and turned in her resignation.

Jackson said during questioning before his arrest, McKinney maintained his innocence.

“We feel like we have a solid case,” Jackson said at the time.

“We are just glad that the victim came forward so we can make sure nothing like this happens to anyone else.”