BENTON COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA) – A sexual assault against a minor charge has been dismissed against a former Highfill mayor.

Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Nathan Smith confirmed that the sexual assault charge against 45-year-old Stacy Digby has been dismissed. Smith issued the following statement:

“The wishes of the victim are always important in deciding how to proceed in a criminal case. Over the course of multiple meetings between prosecutors and the victim, she repeatedly stated her desire not to participate in the prosecution of this case. The victim is now an adult and able to make her own decisions. Her decision not to cooperate made the continued prosecution of this case impossible. I respect the victim’s decision and wish her the best in her future.” 

Digby was arrested last year after Benton County Sheriff’s Office officials learned of a possible inappropriate relationship between Digby and a 17-year-old girl.

When taken in for questioning, the 17-year-old told police she did stay the night at Digby’s home, but only once when her sister, Digby’s kids and his girlfriend were there. 

The teen told police she had known Digby for six years, but she started to really hang out with him about four years ago. 

On January 10, police questioned her grandmother and younger sister.  The younger sister confirmed the 17-year-old and Digby met up several times in public and private. She also stated Digby and the 17-year-old started the relationship about four years ago. 

The younger sister also confirmed to police the 17-year-old kept in communication with Digby through text. The two would send each other numerous photos including pictures of genitalia. 

On January 24, detectives went to Digby’s parent’s house, where they believed he was hiding his computer. During the conversation, Digby’s mother said he was the worship leader at Highfill United Methodist Church and was pretty much the second person in charge besides the actual pastor.  After obtaining a warrant, detectives seized a 500GB external hard drive from Digby’s parent’s milk barn.

On January 29, investigators interviewed an ex-girlfriend of Digby’s about the case. 

The ex-girlfriend told police Digby confessed to having pictures of the 17 year old and to having sexual intercourse with her since she was 12 or 13 years old. 

Digby was arrested on March 28, 2018, on suspicion of Sexual Indecency with a Child and Sexual Assault in the First Degree.