Legal in Alabama, a Felony in Tennessee: 62-Year-Old Charged After Marrying 16-Year-Old
PULASKI, Tenn. — A 62-year-old Tennessee man has been charged with aggravated statutory rape after authorities say he married a 16-year-old girl in Alabama and then returned to live with her in Tennessee, where the age of consent is 18 and no marital exemptions apply.
Michael Dewayne Holley of Pulaski was arrested December 11 following a months-long investigation sparked by tips from concerned citizens, according to local police. Authorities said Holley had been living with the girl and referred to her as his “bride.”
Police confirmed the pair legally married in Alabama, where individuals as young as 16 can marry with parental consent. However, investigators said the relationship became illegal once the couple returned to Tennessee, where state law strictly prohibits sexual contact with minors under 18 regardless of marital status.
Under Tennessee law, aggravated statutory rape applies when a minor between the ages of 13 and 17 is involved in sexual activity with someone at least 10 years older. In this case, authorities cited a 46-year age gap.
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Investigators executed a search warrant at Holley’s home on Kay Drive, where they said evidence of inappropriate contact with a minor was found. Holley was booked into the Giles County Jail and later released on a $250,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on December 23.
Detective Jordan Ramsey said Holley appeared confused during questioning and did not seem to understand why his actions were criminal in Tennessee despite the out-of-state marriage. Police said the girl’s parents approved the marriage but have not been charged. Ramsey noted the matter may be reviewed further by the district attorney.
The girl has since returned to live with her parents.
The case gained rapid attention online after a news clip circulated widely on social media, prompting thousands of reactions condemning the situation and raising broader questions about child marriage laws and protections for minors.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional charges are possible. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Pulaski police.
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