Alleged Sex Offender Arrested After Disturbing Incident in Nashville Public Garage

Nashville Sees Disturbing Incident in Public Garage

Nashville, TN — A quiet Saturday afternoon turned into a frightening experience for an 11-year-old girl and her siblings when an alleged sex offender reportedly grabbed the girl in a downtown parking garage. This unsettling event took place around 4 p.m. in the Public Square parking garage located on James Robertson Parkway.

The suspect, identified as Matthew Lee Harber, a 39-year-old man, reportedly approached the victim as she was walking up the stairwell with her siblings. According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, as Harber walked past the girl, he made an inappropriate advance by grabbing her buttocks before fleeing the scene.

Details Surrounding the Incident

Witnesses reported that the girl was understandably shaken after the encounter. She immediately alerted her siblings, who were with her at the time. The group made their way to safety, and it wasn’t long before the police were called to investigate.

Thanks to surveillance footage from the parking garage, authorities were able to identify Harber. The video clearly showcased his actions, providing critical evidence for the investigation. This evidence was crucial, as Harber’s history raised serious concerns about his behavior.

Arrest and Background of the Suspect

The following day, a Central Precinct Officer assigned to the nearby Entertainment District spotted Harber in the area of Ronald Reagan Way and Peabody Street. Without hesitation, the officer took him into custody.

Matthew Lee Harber is no stranger to the law. His criminal record lists a particularly troubling conviction—he was previously found guilty of especially aggravated attempted kidnapping and aggravated sexual assault after he grabbed a 12-year-old girl outside a convenience store in October 2012. Due to his past offenses, Harber was on a lifetime supervision list for sex offenders.

Upon his arrest, Harber was taken into custody on charges of aggravated sexual battery. He is currently being held in jail with a bond set at $75,000, according to police reports.

Public Reactions and Safety Concerns

The incident has raised alarms within the Nashville community, prompting discussions about the safety of public spaces and the need for increased vigilance. Parents in the area expressed their concern for their children’s safety, especially in locales where they expect to feel secure.

Local community leaders are calling for better measures to protect children and families using public facilities. Some residents voiced their frustrations regarding repeat offenders like Harber being allowed to roam free, risking the safety of others.

This incident has also prompted conversations about how communities can better support victims of such crimes, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to cope with the psychological impact of such experiences.

Next Steps for Authorities

As the investigation continues, law enforcement is encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward. Authorities have reassured the public that they are committed to addressing these issues swiftly and effectively.

Officers noted that increasing police presence in high-traffic areas, especially near parks and public garages, might be part of the solution to curb such incidents. Surveillance and monitoring in these spaces may also be enhanced to deter potential offenders and ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.

Conclusion

The alarming event in downtown Nashville serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing not only law enforcement but also communities aiming to protect their children. Ongoing discussions centered on community safety, offender monitoring, and victim support may prove essential in addressing these issues moving forward.

As Nashville continues to grapple with the implications of this incident, residents remain hopeful for a more secure environment for all, particularly for the youngest members of their community.