Authorities continue to search for the man accused of sexually assaulting a 6-year old girl in Habersham County. 58-year old Jose Manuel Rodriguez fled after warrants were issued for his arrest. He’s charged with child molestation and sexual battery.
Rodriguez, who authorities say has lived in Habersham for at least ten years, was last seen in Cornelia. “We are still actively searching for him,” says Sgt. Richard Stein of the Habersham County Special Victim’s Unit. “There is some word that he may be headed, or is already back in Mexico, but we’re also looking at the possibility that he may be up in the Rabun County area.”
Sgt. Stein says Rodriguez — who also goes by the name Adrian Ortega — may be driving a 1998 (or other late model year) blue, Chevy S-10 pickup truck with black rims and a black camper shell on the back.
READ Search On For Accused Child Molester
The investigation began on July 22nd. Stein says officials had a tough time identifying and locating the suspect. “We think we’re dealing with somebody who’s not a legal resident of the State of Georgia. That was part of the problem in trying to positively ID him,” he explains.
Rodriguez is considered dangerous.
“The victim and the victim’s family is afraid of possible retaliation,” Stein says. He urges anyone who might encounter the suspect to use caution — don’t approach or follow him — just call 9-1-1. “We don’t know what his intentions are,” Stein says. “The best thing to do is call the police and give them the best location.”
