Bentonville, AR – A 43-year-old Arkansas man has been arrested after police say he raped a child for years, forced an at-home abortion by punching her in the stomach, and discarded the stillborn baby in the trash. Authorities believe there may be multiple child victims, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The Incident: Years of Abuse and a Forced Abortion
According to a heavily redacted police affidavit, Wade Lawrence Green, 43, began sexually abusing one of the victims when she was 10 or 11 years old. The abuse allegedly continued for several years, beginning in 2020 and lasting through spring 2023.
The child told investigators that Green routinely manipulated her, telling her she would “grow up and become his wife,” and that their relationship was not wrong because “they loved each other.”
Police say the abuse resulted in the girl becoming pregnant in 2023, prompting Green to attempt to abort the unborn child with violent and dangerous methods, including:
- Repeatedly punching her in the stomach
- Inserting a metal rod inside her
- Threatening and coercing her to keep the pregnancy secret
In March 2023, the girl went into labor and delivered the baby at Green’s residence. The child was stillborn, according to the victim’s statement.
The teen told officers she blacked out while giving birth and never saw the infant again, but believed Green placed the baby in a trash bag and disposed of the remains.
She told police she never received medical care, either during the miscarriage or after.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Police became aware of the abuse on November 9, when a child made a 911 call reporting a “bad man” hurting young girls. Bentonville police rushed to the home and interviewed the minors present.
During interviews with detectives and a child advocate, the primary victim described extensive sexual, physical, and psychological abuse, including threats that Green would release videos of him raping her if she told anyone.
Authorities also say Green presented himself as a former Marine and special forces member, allegedly using that fabricated identity to intimidate victims, claiming he could “kill someone and hide his guilt.”
Green was arrested and charged with:
- Two counts of rape
- Sexual assault in the second degree
- Sexual extortion
- Concealing birth
Court records confirm he is being held at the Benton County Jail on $500,000 bond.
Court Proceedings and Additional Victims
Police say the investigation is “very active” and involves multiple child victims, though full details have not been released due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Green is scheduled to appear in court on December 22. Prosecutors are expected to present extensive evidence outlining years of abuse, including threatened retaliation, forced pregnancy termination, and the disposal of an infant’s remains.
Due to the severity of the allegations, authorities say more charges could follow if additional evidence or victims come forward.
Statements and Reactions
The nature of the case has shaken the local community. Authorities described the allegations as “among the most disturbing” they have encountered in recent years.
Child advocates warn that the case highlights the dangers of isolated children, untreated trauma, and predators who groom victims over time. Police have urged the public to report any suspicions of abuse immediately, emphasizing that early intervention can save lives.
Background Context: Grooming and Threat-Based Control
Investigators say Green used classic grooming tactics, including manipulation, threats, emotional control, and isolation. According to the affidavit, the victim said Green repeatedly warned he would release sexual abuse videos if she told anyone.
Experts say these coercive tactics often prevent children from seeking help, resulting in long-term cycles of exploitation. Police believe the victim’s fear prevented her from reporting the abuse until she was no longer living in Green’s home.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Detectives are continuing interviews with children and adults who may have information about the case. The Bentonville Police Department has coordinated with child welfare advocates and forensic specialists to assess the full scope of harm.
Green remains in custody, and investigators expect further charges as the case progresses.
Conclusion
The allegations against Wade Lawrence Green paint a devastating picture of prolonged abuse, forced pregnancy termination, and manipulation of vulnerable children. As the case moves forward, authorities are focused on ensuring safety for all involved minors and achieving justice for the victims who endured years of trauma.
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