A Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent, Kent Blacklidge, has been indicted on several charges, including rape and child sex abuse, in relation to a juvenile girl in Alabama, as announced by authorities.
The charges include first-degree rape, second-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, second-degree sodomy, and both first and second-degree sexual abuse, as well as incest. These charges were handed by a Baldwin County grand jury, according to the Spanish Fort Police Department.
The investigation began on January 11 following a report of alleged sexual abuse of a young girl. Blacklidge, 43, was placed on administrative leave as soon as the investigation commenced. According to Spanish Fort Police, the case required significant bravery from the victim to come forward.
It takes an unbelievable amount of courage and strength for a victim of these types of crimes to come forward,Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber commented.
Due to Blacklidge’s involvement as a witness in other cases handled by the Baldwin County District Attorney’s Office, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office is taking over the prosecution. Marshall expressed deep concern, given Blacklidge’s former responsibilities of investigating child exploitation cases and public education on child-related crimes.
Authorities have identified one juvenile victim and have no evidence suggesting additional victims at this time. More case details are withheld due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. Blacklidge surrendered to authorities on September 5 after being contacted through his attorney. Should he post bond, conditions include electronic monitoring and home confinement, and he is forbidden from contacting the alleged victim or any minors under 18.
The investigation remains active, and an HSI spokesperson has refrained from commenting. Brittany Miller, a Fox News Digital writer, provided this report.