Homeland security agent charged with child rape in Alabama, officials say
Kent Blacklidge, who officials say was ‘directly involved with child exploitation cases’, turned himself in last week
TL;DR
- Kent Blacklidge, an HSI special agent, has been charged with child rape, sodomy, and sexual abuse in Alabama.
- Blacklidge's role at HSI involved investigating child exploitation cases.
- The charges are based on a January report of child sexual abuse involving an underage girl.
- Blacklidge has been placed on administrative leave by HSI.
- Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall condemned the charges, calling them "disappointing and frankly disgusting."
- Blacklidge was released on bond with conditions including electronic monitoring and an order to not contact minors.
- The Alabama AG's office is handling the prosecution due to Blacklidge being a witness in other cases handled by the local district attorney.