Former scout leader indicted

Friday, October 17, 2008
© Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE - Former Cub Scout leader Harry "Brett" Taylor will face an imposing 32 counts of alleged sexual misconduct with children, according to an indictment released Thursday.

A total of 17 children came forward to accuse Taylor of having sex with them, touching them improperly or photographing them naked in incidents spanning from 1995 to earlier this year, the indictment says.

A majority of the alleged victims are boys under age 16.

Taylor, 44, formerly served on the Gwinnett County Public Library Board and was a longtime Scout Leader in Gwinnett.

The 32 counts lodged against Taylor charge him with aggravated child molestation, child molestation, criminal attempt to commit child molestation, sexual exploitation of children, aggravated sexual battery and sexual battery.

His arraignment, during which he could enter a plea, is expected within a month.

Taylor's initial charges stem from incidents against two boys, including a family member, who came forward to police in July, authorities said.

One boy said Taylor touched his genital area and photographed him while he was undressing after exiting a swimming pool at Taylor's home. Police said Taylor committed similar acts against another boy for more than two years.

Taylor's wife, Joanne Taylor, filed for divorce the day of his arrest. The couple had five children in 17 years of marriage.

Taylor has remained at the Gwinnett County Jail without bond since his July 24 arrest. He has since resigned from his library post.

Authorities have said the alleged incidents did not occur at Cub Scout or library functions.

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