Community reacts to Whitesville investigation arrest

DAVIESS COUNTY, Ky. (WEHT) — Emotions are running high for many Daviess County residents who spent the last few weeks banding together on social media to identify an assault suspect that authorities say never even existed.

Authorities say Kylen Edge was charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident to Law Enforcement after admitting to making up the entire account — weeks after the alleged attack occurred.

Rilee Evans, a Daviess County resident, has been active on social media — sharing new developments from authorities on the case. She says she had no idea the investigation would lead to Edge’s arrest.

“It was shocking to hear that the whole thing was fabricated,” Evans said. “And it was also a little upsetting because you do think of the women that experienced this may be reliving this due to it being brought to light, only for it to be false.”

“A $250 bond is kind of just like a slap on the wrist,” Evans adds. “And I do think that there should have been a little bit more of a punishment. Because it does affect so many people and there were so many different resources brought into this that were essentially wasted.”

Jennifer Minton, another resident, shares the same disappointment after hearing about Edge’s arrest, saying this investigation will leave an imprint on the lives of those who reside in the area.

“Because it was originally reported here, there’s always going to be a thought in the back of their mind like ‘Could this actually happen here?,'” Minton said.

Another Whitesville resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed similar sentiments regarding the investigation.

“You never expect it to happen so close to home. But when it does, everything changes,” the resident said. “You change your routine just to feel safe. I remember passing a gas station just because a couple of trucks with men were parked there and I didn’t want to take the chance. As a parent, your mind is never at ease and you can’t help but think, ‘How am I going to protect my kids.’ It is not my place to judge what she did, but it is undeniable that it impacted our community. It’s unfortunate, but I will say it was nice to see everyone come together, even for just a moment.”

A Philpot resident, Ann Meier, says she feels a sense of relief knowing the case has closed, but at what cost.

“It’s also very sad for her family who tried everything they could find answers,” Meier said. “They are victims too.”

At the end of the day, Evans hopes every one that played a role at attempting to locate this alleged assailant will be able to move forward — including Edge.

“I do hope she gets the help she needs as far as mental health resources go and things of that nature,” Evans said.

The residents say they are saddened by the investigation’s conclusion but are thankful they can rest easy tonight knowing there is not an active danger to the community.