On October 7, 2024, the Harrison County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division (CID) received a call from Texas Child Protection Services regarding concerns about a juvenile victim being photographed inappropriately. Shortly after, the Terrell Police Department notified the CID of a "cyber tip" from the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Taskforce. The tip suggested potential exploitation involving a juvenile in Harrison County.
The CID/ICAC Taskforce promptly reviewed the cyber tip and identified 43-year-old Kevin Forrest Barnett of Hallsville as being in possession of multiple videos containing child pornography. Within approximately three hours of receiving the initial report, authorities executed a warrant for Barnett's arrest.
As the investigation progressed, a search warrant for Barnett's residence was executed, leading to the discovery of supporting evidence. Consequently, an arrest warrant for aggravated sexual assault of a child was obtained and swiftly carried out.
The Harrison County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the ICAC Taskforce and other law enforcement agencies, continues to investigate the case to ensure the protection of vulnerable individuals in the community.
"I am very pleased with the outcome in this case. Having one of our own investigators in the ICAC Taskforce has proven to be a great tool in exposing sexual predators that otherwise may have gone undetected. Our agencies work tirelessly to ensure that our community is safe for everyone, especially our youth," said Sheriff Fletcher.
Barnett's bond was set at $400,00.
