DERIDDER, La. – Two men from DeRidder have been arrested in connection with what authorities describe as one of the most disturbing child abuse cases in recent memory.
According to the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office, Kenneth Leslie Reed Sr., 74, and Justin Allen Stephens, 31, were taken into custody on Thursday following an investigation into the reported abuse of two “very young” victims.
The investigation began on August 1, when deputies received a report of inappropriate touching involving a child. Sheriff Mark Herford said the child provided statements and evidence that ultimately led investigators to identify Reed and Stephens as the primary suspects.
“This is the most disturbing case I’ve been involved with in quite some time,” Sheriff Herford said in a statement.
Both men are facing charges of first-degree rape of a victim under the age of 13. Reed has been charged with three counts, while Stephens faces four counts.
The sheriff’s office is continuing its investigation and has asked anyone with additional information to contact the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office.
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