Man arrested in Barbourville after alleged explicit conversations with minor

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. – One man is facing charges after alleged explicit conversations with what he knew to be a minor, according to police.

According to a social media post by the Barbourville Police Department, 29-year-old Joshua Wakin was arrested on Thursday on a complaint warrant following a joint investigation by Barbourville police and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say Wakin allegedly had “inappropriate conversations” with what he knew to be an underage female, where “sexually explicit images were sent” in an undercover investigation.

Chief Adam Townsley with Barbourville police stated the agency encourages parents and guardians to “remain involved in their children’s online activities and to report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement.”

Wakin was arrested and lodged in the Bell County Detention Center, where he remains on a $250,000 cash bond.

According to jail records, Wakin is charged with procuring or promoting the use of a minor by electronic means.