Battle Ground police arrested 41-year-old Christopher Lee Morrissey on Wednesday, accusing him of third-degree rape of a child in a case involving a 14-year-old victim. Detectives say the investigation, which began in 2022, is still very much alive, and they believe there may be other people with information that has not yet surfaced. Morrissey was booked into the Clark County Jail, according to investigators.
In a news release from the City of Battle Ground, police said the arrest grew out of that ongoing investigation involving a 14-year-old victim and confirmed that Morrissey was taken to the Clark County Jail after his arrest. The release notes that detectives are aware Morrissey has lived in southwest Washington for several years and stresses that the investigation has not wrapped up. It also underscores that an arrest does not equal a conviction and that Morrissey is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Police Say There May Be More Victims
Detectives believe Morrissey may have additional alleged victims in the southwest Washington area and are asking the public to step forward with any information that might help. As reported by KPTV, anyone with information is asked to contact Battle Ground Police Department Detective Sergeant Josh Phelps at (360) 342-5241 or [email protected]. Tips could help identify others with relevant information and move the case forward.
How Washington Law Classifies The Charge
Under Washington law, rape of a child in the third degree applies when the victim is at least 14 but under 16 and the alleged perpetrator is at least 48 months older, according to RCW 9A.44.079. The offense is a class C felony. The state’s sentencing statute sets maximum penalties at up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000 under RCW 9A.20.021. Those laws form the framework for what could happen next in court if prosecutors move forward with the case.
What Happens Next
According to the Battle Ground release, detectives are continuing to actively investigate and Morrissey remains in custody at the Clark County Jail pending further action. Any formal charges, arraignments, or court hearings will be scheduled through the county court system as the prosecutor reviews the investigative file. For jail information and inmate lookup, the county directs residents to Clark County Jail Services.
