A Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent who investigated child exploitation cases has been indicted on charges including rape, incest, and child sex abuse involving a juvenile female in Alabama.
A Baldwin County grand jury indicted Kent Blacklidge, 43, on charges of first-degree rape, second-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, second-degree sodomy, two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, two counts of second-degree sexual abuse, and incest, according to the Spanish Fort Police Department.
Investigators opened the case on January 11 after receiving a report alleging the sexual abuse of a juvenile. Blacklidge was placed on administrative leave shortly after the investigation began.
"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 said. "And I commend our victim for having that resolve."
The Alabama Attorney General's office is prosecuting the case. The Baldwin County District Attorney's Office recused itself because Blacklidge is a witness in other cases it handles.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall stated that the allegations are particularly disturbing given Blacklidge's role with HSI, which included investigating child exploitation and educating the public about crimes against children. "He was directly involved in child exploitation cases," Marshall said. "It's why it is so profoundly disappointing and frankly disgusting to stand here today and tell you that we've charged him with facts consistent with what his professional responsibility was."
Authorities reported there is one known juvenile victim and no indication of additional victims. Barber declined to provide further details due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Blacklidge surrendered to authorities on September 5 after investigators contacted his attorney. Marshall indicated that if Blacklidge posts bond, he will be subject to electronic monitoring, home confinement, and a prohibition on contacting the alleged victim or anyone under 18.
A spokesperson for Homeland Security Investigations declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.