Woman arrested in teen sex-abuse case

CLEARFIELD — A Clearfield woman has been booked into the Davis County Jail after police say she had sex with a 14-year-old boy.

Tabitha Ash, 34, is being held for investigation of two counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor and one count of sexual abuse of a minor.

Ash befriended the alleged victim's family when she moved into their neighborhood, said Clearfield Assistant Police Chief Greg Krusi. She then began sending text messages to the teen that eventually took on a sexual tone, he said.

Investigators believe Ash and the teen had sex on two occasions. Krusi said the woman also fondled the boy at least once.

The alleged abuse came to light on Monday after the teen got upset and told a friend he'd been involved with Ash. The boy then told his mother, who contacted police, Krusi said.

No formal charges had been filed against Ash late Friday; however, Krusi said the case was reviewed by Davis County prosecutors prior to Ash's arrest.

— Geoff Liesik