New evidence submitted in statutory rape case of former first responder

GIBSON COUNTY, Tenn. — A former West Tennessee first responder appeared in court Monday afternoon on a charge of statutory rape.

Matthew McKnight was a volunteer member of the Humboldt Area Rescue Squad until he was accused of raping an underage girl in October 2014.

McKnight’s attorney submitted new evidence to the state Monday afternoon in the Gibson County Courthouse.

“I was expecting this to be a disposition day to open some new evidence. I’ve given books of it to the state,” Attorney Michael Working said.

The district attorney’s office and the defense worked to decide on their next court date.

The next hearing is set for Dec. 21 at 9 a.m. in Brownsville because it is closer to McKnight’s attorney.

Both parties say they hope to reach an agreement at the next hearing. However, if no agreement is reached they then will send the case to trial.

If convicted, McKnight could serve up to two years in jail.