Prosecutor: Mental-Health Worker in Sex Case Made 'Strong Admissions'

Raleigh, N.C. — A mental-health center employee accused of a sex crime against a mentally incapacitated patient "made some strong admissions to Raleigh police during the investigation."

That statement came from Wake County Assistant District Attorney Doug Faucette during a hearing Wednesday in which a judge reduced Edward Kenneth Smith's bond from $500,000 to $200,000.

Police charged Smith, 38, of 5041-G Wallingford Drive, with one count of second-degree forcible sex offense on Tuesday in the alleged offense that happened at the Tammy Lynn Center for Developmental Disabilities, where he was employed.

The judge told Smith he is to have no contact with the alleged victim, and he is required to stay away from the Tammy Lynn property.

Smith was also appointed a public defender, and his next court appearance was scheduled for Jan. 30.

Smith's role at the Tammy Lynn center was unclear.

The center would not comment or provide additional information beyond a prepared statement it released Wednesday morning. In that, President and CEO Mary Freeman said the center is cooperating with the investigation.

"The health and safety of each person who receives services here at the center is our primary focus," she said. "To that end, the person in question is no longer employed here."

Freeman said all prospective employees undergo criminal background and reference checks.