Laurel County, KY - Sheriff John Root is reporting that: Detective Kyle Gray along with Detective Kevin Berry arrested two individuals on Tuesday night November 29, 2016 at approximately 11:19 PM.
The arrests occurred in London after the Sheriff's office conducted an investigation and determined that a 35-year-old male subject had allegedly had sexual contact with a 13-year-old female on at least three different occasions.
Detectives also learned that prior to the rape allegation being reported to law enforcement that apparently the mother of the 13-year-old attempted to extort money from the suspect to make the evidence disappear on the rape case.
Detectives and deputies arrested Michael Lester age 35 of East Campground Rd., London charged with 3 counts of rape – second-degree; and tampering with physical evidence.
Also arrested was the 13-year-old's mother identified as Jennifer Johnson age 34 of Slate Lick St., London charged with theft by extortion.
These two individuals were lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.
Deputies assisting on the investigation included Capt. Chuck Johnson and Deputy Travis Napier.
The 13-year-old is in the custody of other relatives.
Photos of accused are courtesy of the Laurel County Detention Center.
