Lee County couple arrested in sex crimes investigation
UPDATE: The Opelika Police Detectives recently began investigating allegations of sexual abuse that occurred over 15 years ago. The victims, now adults, recently came forward to report abuse that they experienced as children over a period of several years.
64-year-old Michael Earl Adams and his wife, 56-year-old Malissa Denise Jolley Adams, were arrested on charges related to this case.
Michael and Malissa Adams are being held at the Lee County Detention Center awaiting an Aniah’s Law Hearing.
This case remains under investigation by the Opelika Police Department. If you have any additional information, please contact the Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 745-8665. Tips can be submitted through our Opelika Police Mobile App. You may wish to remain anonymous.
FIRST REPORT: A Lee County couple is facing serious charges in a sex crimes investigation.
CNAW2News.com confirms Malissa Denise Jolley Adams and Michael Earl Adams were booked into the Lee County Jail on August 29, 2025, on felony charges.
Both were arrested during a SWAT-involved search warrant that was reportedly taking place on Lee Road 117 in the Beauregard community. CNAW2News.com has confirmed Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Opelika Police Department, and an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency helicopter was at the scene.
Malissa Adams is facing charges of two counts of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old and sodomy – first degree. Michael Adams is facing charges of rape – first degree, two counts of sodomy – first degree, two counts of sexual torture-abuse, and two counts of sex abuse of a child less than 12 years old. All charges, except for sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old, have no bond.
CNAW2News.com is working to gather additional details surrounding the search warrant and arrests soon.
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