Neelyville man charged with rape, incest

A Neelyville man has been charged with rape and incest, according to the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office. The charges stem from an incident reported Jan. 15.

According to a probable cause statement, the Butler County Children’s Division received a hotline report regarding child molestation. The allegations were made against Michael Ernest Cobbley, 53.

The report to the hotline indicated Cobbley had shown pornographic material to the victim during Christmas break.

The Children’s Division requested assistance from law enforcement to conduct a well-being check at the residence.

During the investigation, investigators made contact with the individuals. Cobbley was informed of his Miranda Rights and agreed to speak with law enforcement.

During questioning, Cobbley told investigators that he watches pornography on his computer in the basement and that the girl the allegations concerned would “spy” on him.

The following day, a forensic interview of the victim was conducted. During the interview, the victim informed investigators that Cobbley had started molesting her years earlier.

Cobbley was arrested March 3. A change of judge was requested the following day and Steven Lynxwiler was assigned as the judge Wednesday, March 5.

Cobbley has been formally charged with felony counts of first-degree rape/attempted rape and incest. He is currently being held at the Butler County jail with a bond of $100,000 cash or surety.

A preliminary hearing has not yet been scheduled.