Alleged molester still sought

GARDNERVILLE - An accused molester and former police academy cadet is still on the lam after new allegations cropped up against him recently, officials said Friday.

A warrant was issued Monday for the arrest of James Ernest Hope, 40, on suspicion of felony lewdness with a child under 14. He was awaiting a January trial on similar charges in Carson City.

According to Douglas County police, Hope allegedly put his hand down the pants of a 10-year-old girl Sunday while her mother was in another room, then fled when confronted.

In June, a judge ordered Hope to trial on one count of sexual assault and four counts of lewdness with a minor under the age of 14.

In that case, three girls allegedly told their mother he assaulted them in 2001. Investigators said Hope subjected the children to fondling and sexual activity on more than one occasion, according to court documents.

Hope, who owned Hope's Painting & Drywall, was taken into custody May 15. He was also attending the Police Officers Standards and Training Academy at Western Nevada Community College and was slated to graduate the 30-week course in August.

A Carson City district court judge revoked Hope's $100,000 bail Monday.

Hope is described as 6-feet 2-inches tall, weighing 220 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair. He is believed to be driving a purple 1999 Eagle Talon with Nevada license plate 944PZF.

Anyone with information is asked to call Douglas County investigator Dan Coverely at 782-9909 or Secret Witness at 782-7463.

Contact F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.