In Judge Nelson's courtroom, the case of Alton Fender is set to begin after it's postponement earlier this month. Fender is charged with incest, three counts of aggravated child molestation, three counts of aggravated sexual battery, four counts of sexual battery, six counts of child molestation and two counts of enticing a child for indecent purposes. All charges were filed after Fender allegedly molested his daughter from January 2004 through March 2011 when he is accused of inappropriately touching the child, who was under the age of 14. He also is accused of molesting a second minor and another woman.
Also in Judge Nelson's courtroom, a cruelty to children case regarding Lesa Wright is expected to be heard. According to the indictment, Wright allegedly deprived her 3-year-old child while she was intoxicated by an unknown substance and allowed the child to walk the motel halls of Courtesy Inn, looking for shelter and food at 3 a.m. in 15 degree weather.
Other cases expected to go before Judge Nelson's bench, as well as Judge D. Smith's, include various crimes such as driving under the influence, possession of drugs from marijuana to cocaine and methamphetamine, theft by taking, criminal damage to property and other charges.
Two defendants will present their cases in both courtrooms for different charges. Colton Shane and Alvin Young Tilley are charged with theft by taking in Judge Nelson's courtroom and are parties to a larger trial involving three other co-defendants in Judge D. Smith's courtroom, where they face charges of possession and sale of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana.
Trials are set to begin following jury selection at 9 a.m. at the Frank Moore Administration and Judicial Center in Cartersville.