BARTLETT, TN (abc24.com) - Former Shelby County employee Joel Camp is headed to the Shelby County Jail after he waived his preliminary hearing in a brief court appearance in Bartlett Monday afternoon.
The former Shelby County Reserve Sheriff's Deputy is accused of molesting a girl 10 years ago. He faces an aggravated sexual battery charge, and there's a chance he could face several more.
“He's been on around the clock observation in Bartlett for his own safety,” said defense lawyer Ken Brashier.
Brashier says his client is upset and depressed. It's the first we've heard of his condition since Camp was arrested more than a week ago.
“In a case like this there's always a rush to judgment, say he's a monster, but he's not a monster, he's a man,” Brashier said.
It will be at least 90 days before Camp is indicted and arraigned in criminal court. Bartlett Police say additional charges could come later this week. Brashier disagrees.
“We're not anticipating more charges but we're anticipating more investigation,” Brashier said.
Memphis and Bartlett Police Departments still have open investigations. According to an affidavit, the victim told Bartlett police that Camp would take her into his room and touch her inappropriately. She told police the encounters also took place while she showered.
Memphis police claim Camp admitted touching the girl while she bathed and that it was just “a little more than a quick wash."
Camp will remain behind bars on a $50,000 bond until his indictment. He has since resigned from his position with Shelby County.
