Trial Begins in Case of Former DFCS Counselor Accused of Molesting Girl

Jury selection and opening statements will be undertaken today in the trial of a former Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) counselor who stands accused of sexually assaulting a minor in his care.

According to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, the charges in the indictment against Earl Hopper claim that the defendant was originally assigned to the siblings of a 14-year-old girl. Hopper later volunteered to counsel the 14-year-old, as well.

The indictment claims that on Nov. 10, 2011, Hopper picked up the 14-year-old girl under the guise of transporting her to a DFCS counseling session. Instead, the indictment alleges that Hopper took the girl to his home, gave her alcohol, and sexually assaulted her before taking her home.

The victim told her mother what happened immediately upon returning home, and Hopper was arrested that same day. He has been charged with rape, child molestation, and enticing a child for indecent purposes.

Hopper is presumed innocent until proven guilty.