ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — Rowan County deputies are looking for a man who is wanted on multiple charges for sex crimes against children, investigators said.
Deputies are asking for the public's help locating 46-year-old Ashish Dayaram Mahale. Detectives have multiple warrants against him on charges of first-degree forcible rape, first-degree forcible sex offense, incest with a child, crimes against nature and indecent liberties with a child.
Investigators said the warrants are related to a reported child sex assault on Sept. 9. Mahale's wife, 34-year-old Emily Sarah Mahale, was arrested on Thursday in connection with the case for allegedly contributing to the abuse or neglect of a child. She was also charged with child abuse. Emily Mahale was arrested Thursday during a search at the couple's home on Woodleaf Road, officials said. She was released from jail after posting bond.
Ashish Mahale is described as approximately 5-foot-9 with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call 911 immediately. Witnesses may also call the Rowan County Sheriff's Office at 704-216-8682.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
