STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
A Cave City woman has been convicted in Hart County on two counts of first-degree criminal abuse of a child under 12 after a four-day jury trial.
A Hart County jury found 24-year-old Ashley Anderson guilty on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, on both counts.
The case began with reports of injuries to Anderson’s minor child in 2024, according to a press release from Kentucky State Police Post 3. The child had a broken arm and multiple contact burns, which led to a criminal investigation.
The case was investigated by Detective Allen Shirley, with assistance from Detectives Jordan Matthews, Gary Travis and Michael Waggener, all assigned to Post 3.
State police were also assisted by multiple local law enforcement officials from Hart County during the investigation. A Hart County Grand Jury returned an indictment in February 2025, moving the case toward trial.
Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Brooke Talley and First Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Jason Floyd prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth.
Elected Commonwealth’s Attorney Kyle Williamson said in a statement that his office is grateful for the “hard work and continued dedication” of Kentucky State Police in helping bring justice for an abused child.
Williamson added that prosecutors will continue working alongside law enforcement partners to make Hart County a safer place for all citizens.
After deliberating, jurors recommended a sentence of 10 years on each count, to run concurrently for a total of 10 years in prison.
Anderson is scheduled to appear before Hart County Circuit Court on Nov. 17, 2026, for final sentencing.
Key Facts
• A Hart County jury convicted Ashley Anderson, 24, of two counts of first-degree criminal abuse of a child under 12.
• The case stems from 2024 injuries to Anderson’s minor child, including a broken arm and multiple contact burns.
• Kentucky State Police Post 3 in Bowling Green led the investigation, assisted by Hart County law enforcement.
• The case was prosecuted by Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Brooke Talley and First Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Jason Floyd.
• Jurors recommended 10 years on each count, to run concurrently for a total of 10 years.
• Final sentencing in Hart County Circuit Court is scheduled for November 17, 2026.
