Indecent Liberties Charges Filed Against Former Horse Farrier: Police

GREAT FALLS, VA — An 81-year-old Fredericksburg man was arrested recently for taking indecent liberties while working at a horse farm in Great Falls more than 40 years ago, according to Fairfax County Police.

Investigators from FCPD's Child Abuse Unit arrested Edward Shelton after a victim told officers at the McLean District Station on June 7 that she had been sexually assaulted multiple times, according to police. The assaults occurred between 1980 and 1983 at a horse farm in Great Falls, according to the victim.

Detectives identified Shelton as a suspect in the case. He had worked during that period as a horse farrier at various farms in Northern Virginia and Stafford, the victim told police.

Police obtained arrest warrants for two counts of indecent liberties against Shelton, who turned himself in to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office. Shelton is being held without bond and will later be taken to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center.

Anyone who may have been a victim of Shelton or who has information in connection with this case, is asked to call FCPD's Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 4. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), and by web – Click HERE. Download the ‘P3 Tips’ App “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers.”

Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards. Leave contact information if you want a detective to follow up with you.

Specialists from FCPD's Victim Services Division have been assigned to this case to ensure victims are receiving appropriate resources and assistance.