HSI agent who investigated child exploitation cases indicted on rape and child abuse charges

A Homeland Security Investigations agent who worked child exploitation cases faces rape, incest and sodomy charges involving a juvenile in Alabama.

HSI agent who investigated child exploitation cases indicted on rape and child abuse charges

TL;DR

  • Kent Blacklidge, 43, an HSI special agent, was indicted on charges including first-degree rape, second-degree rape, sodomy, sexual abuse, and incest.
  • The charges stem from an investigation opened on January 11, alleging the sexual abuse of a juvenile female in Alabama.
  • Blacklidge's job with HSI involved investigating child exploitation cases.
  • The Alabama Attorney General's office is prosecuting the case due to a conflict of interest with the Baldwin County District Attorney's Office.
  • Authorities confirmed one known juvenile victim and no indication of additional victims.
  • Blacklidge surrendered to authorities and will face electronic monitoring and home confinement if he posts bond.