Vidalia, La. (10/03/2023) – On October 3, 2023, the CPSO Cyber Crime Unit began an investigation into the sexual abuse of a juvenile, that occurred at a Vidalia residence.
It was learned that an adult subject had touched the child numerous times in a sexual manner, then proceeded to attempt sexual intercourse with them. Today, CPSO and the Vidalia Police Department executed a search warrant at the location and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
It was also discovered that the suspect was a non-compliant convicted sex offender, having been convicted in 2011 on federal sex offense charges. The matter remains under investigation.
ARRESTED:
Joe Taunton, 44
2069 Eleanor St.
Vidalia, LA
CHARGES:
Sexual Battery of a Juvenile, 2 Counts
Attempted Second Degree Rape
Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, 3 Counts
Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearms, 3 Counts
