A North Platte man is facing a felony sexual assault charge after he allegedly fondled a teenage girl.

On November 22nd, North Platte Police responded to the 300 block of West 4th Street on the report of a sexual assault.

The officer was told that 41-year-old Thomas Barnes had fondled the breasts of a female under the age of 15.

An interview with the victim was conducted at the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center.

The victim indicated that her parents are friends with Barnes and she had visited his house in the 2300 block of East Philip with them.

At one point, the victim said she went into a bedroom and laid down.  She said she awoke to find Barnes laying beside her and fondling her breasts.

Officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Barnes and made contact with him on Thursday, December 5th.

Barnes was placed under arrest and charged with 3rd degree sexual assault of a child.

NPPD Investigator, John Deal, says 3rd degree sexual assault of a child occurs when a subject over the age of 18 has sexual contact with someone 14 years of age or younger.