A Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent, Kent Blacklidge, age 43, faces serious accusations related to child sex abuse in Alabama. A Baldwin County grand jury has indicted him on several charges, including first-degree and second-degree rape, first-degree and second-degree sodomy, sexual abuse, and incest, as confirmed by the Spanish Fort Police Department.

The investigation initiated on January 11, following a report of sexual abuse involving a juvenile girl. Authorities placed Blacklidge on administrative leave shortly after the investigation commenced. He turned himself in to authorities on September 5, following contact with his attorney.

Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward, highlighting the strength required to report such crimes. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced his office would prosecute the case due to the Baldwin County District Attorney’s Office recusing itself, as Blacklidge was a witness in other ongoing cases they handle.

Attorney General Marshall expressed his concerns about the allegations, especially given Blacklidge’s role in investigating child exploitation and educating the public on crimes against children. “It’s profoundly disappointing to be in the position of charging him with crimes consistent with what he should have been preventing,” Marshall remarked.

Authorities have identified one known juvenile victim, with no indications of additional victims. Barber refrained from providing further details due to the case’s ongoing nature. Should Blacklidge post bond, he will face electronic monitoring, home confinement, and will be prohibited from contacting the victim or anyone under the age of 18.

An HSI spokesperson has declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Reporter Brittany Miller from Fox News Digital provided the breaking news coverage.