The trial for Roderick Bennett, accused of gratification of lust with a minor under the age of 16, began Monday.

A jury of five women and seven men were chosen. Opening arguments were presented by Liem Walker for the state, and John Bullard as the defense attorney for Bennett.

Bennett was indicted by the August 2023 grand jury for an incident that allegedly occurred in May 2023.

Opening for the state, Walker said the victim was walking outside her home when Bennett asked her to get into his truck. She said he proceeded to fondle the victim, who immediately ran home and told her father, who called the police. The child was later interviewed by the Children’s Advocacy Center forensic examiner, who is expected to testify.

For the defense, Bullard stated the defendant had known the victim’s mother since high school. After a four-year stint in the military, Bennett eventually relocated to Warren County, moving next door to the victim’s family. Bullard stated that Bennett denies the victim got into his truck on the day in question and claims he only spoke to her from inside the truck. He said the evidence will show the victim is not credible.

The trial will resume at 9 a.m. Tuesday.