Bowling Green, KY — A 41-year-old man from Topeka, Kansas was arrested Friday in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged sexual exploitation of a minor in Warren County, Kentucky, officials said. The arrest follows a joint operation conducted by the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI).
Investigation Triggered by Missing Juvenile Report
According to a news release from the Kentucky State Police, troopers with KSP Post 3 in Bowling Green received a call reporting that a juvenile had left their home with Justin R. Bevitt, 41, of Topeka. During follow-up interviews, authorities learned that Bevitt had allegedly met with the juvenile on multiple occasions in the past.
“Authorities spoke with the parents, and eventually found out that Justin R. Bevitt, 41, of Topeka, had allegedly met with the juvenile ‘several’ times in the past,” the KSP said in the release (source).
Charges Filed Against Suspect
Bevitt was arrested around 6:45 a.m. on Friday by Kansas authorities. He faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Procuring or promoting the use of a minor
- First-degree unlawful transaction with a minor
- Second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor
- Distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under the age of 18
After his arrest, Bevitt was lodged in the Shawnee County Department of Corrections in Kansas, where additional charges are reportedly pending.
Extradition to Kentucky Expected
Officials confirmed that Bevitt is expected to be extradited to Kentucky as the joint investigation continues. Both the KSP and KBI are actively pursuing further leads and evidence related to the case.
“The joint investigation remains ongoing,” authorities noted, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and the coordinated effort between the two states.
Authorities Urge Public Cooperation
Investigators are encouraging anyone with additional information related to Bevitt or potential other victims to contact the Kentucky State Police or the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Public assistance is considered vital in cases involving child exploitation to ensure the safety of potential victims and to support a thorough legal process.
- Tip lines and local authorities are available for confidential reporting.
- Authorities remind the public to avoid sharing unverified information on social media to protect the investigation and individuals involved.
This case underscores the ongoing concern over child exploitation crimes across state lines and highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to holding offenders accountable and safeguarding minors from sexual abuse and exploitation.
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