MIDDLESBORO, Ky. (WYMT) - Bell County Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Taylor hosted a public forum at the Middlesboro Community Center Tuesday night.
Taylor said Harvey Gollahan, a man charged for his role in the murder of Elena Hembree in 2023, accepted a plea deal that includes 20 years behind bars.
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Many in the community have argued the punishment is not enough for the heinous crime.
“This case has troubled me deeply. And to suggest it that we’ve done anything other than the best we could do is absolutely inaccurate,” Taylor said.
Community members were invited to ask questions directly to Taylor. Taylor also addressed various allegations, including rumors that baby Elena was sexually assaulted.
“There is no evidence that this child was sexually a