Vidalia, LA (April 3, 2024) – The Cyber Crime Unit of the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) has concluded a months-long investigation resulting in the arrest of a Hot Springs man for cyber sex crimes involving a minor.
The investigation, which commenced in October 2023, centered on an adult individual engaging in explicit online conversations with a known minor via social media platforms.
The suspect, identified as Damien Cole Catlett, 26, of Hot Springs, AR, allegedly exchanged numerous sexually explicit images of himself with the minor while soliciting similar content in return.
Despite initial attempts to evade arrest, Catlett was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service in December.
However, he reportedly refused to sign extradition paperwork, prolonging the legal process. Last month, the extradition proceedings were initiated, paving the way for Catlett to be transported to Louisiana to face prosecution.
Catlett now faces charges of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor and Indecent Behavior with Juveniles. It’s essential to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The CPSO Cyber Crime Unit has been diligent in pursuing offenders who exploit minors online, and this arrest underscores their commitment to safeguarding vulnerable members of the community from digital predators.
