FISHERS, Ind. – A 31-year-old registered behavioral therapist, Alec Hegge of Pendleton, Indiana, was arrested Thursday on two charges of child molestation. The charges involve allegations of abuse against children, including an infant, according to the Hamilton County Metro Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.
Police say Hegge worked with autistic children at Changing Lives Behavior Analysis Inc., an Anderson-based therapy center. While it’s not yet confirmed if his patients were abused, authorities believe more victims may exist due to his role and access to vulnerable minors.
Hegge had recently marked two years of employment at the facility, which has since terminated him and is said to be cooperating fully with investigators.
In a statement, the ICAC Task Force said, “Hegge told investigators he never hurt a patient because there were too many safeguards in place.” However, police suspect additional charges may be forthcoming as they continue to examine his online accounts and digital activity.
Families who have worked with Hegge and suspect inappropriate behavior are urged to contact Detective Chris Borgmann of the Greenfield Police Department at 317-595-3467.
As of Thursday night, Hegge was being held without bond at the Madison County Jail in Anderson. Formal charges had not yet been filed, according to online court records.
Changing Lives Behavior Analysis Inc. did not immediately respond to media inquiries regarding the arrest.
