Community Reacts to Pike County Sheriff's Decision to Keep Accused Rapist in Jail
By: Megan Hunter
Updated: July 11, 2012
Andre Lamon Ellis, the man accused of raping two Troy co-eds in March, remains in jail despite a judge lowering his bond last week so he could get out.
Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas says he will stay there. Now, the community is speaking out about Thomas' actions.
Hugh Foshee said, "He doesn't need to be on the street. This man is a danger to society. If he raped one woman will he rape another one? That's the problem I have with it."
"I believe the Sheriff made the right decision. I believe he would be a flight risk. But even if he wasn't (a flight risk) I think the seriousness of the offense merits that he be kept in safe keeping until the proper procedures are followed," said Millie Blanton.
Jerome Solomon sees another side to the story. He said, "I think there is a constitutional rights issue. The Sheriff feels he has the obligation to the community, but maybe there should be some legal action taken to support that position."
