Ohio man transported to Barren County to face sexual abuse charges involving minor
BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – The Barren County Sheriff’s Office says a man is facing multiple charges related to sexual abuse of a minor.
According to a release by the agency, on Friday, it returned 42-year-old Matthew David Campbell of Amelia, Ohio to Barren County amid an investigation into allegations of sexual activity involving a minor.
Authorities say the investigation started early last month after a concerned parent shared information regarding an adult male who had allegedly traveled to Barren County and engaged in illegal sexual activity involving a minor.
Deputies say they learned Campbell allegedly traveled to the county multiple times between May and July and “engaged in illegal sexual activity involving the juvenile.”
According to the agency, detectives discovered Campbell and the minor initially met online.
As a result of an extensive investigation, authorities say they obtained an arrest warrant for Campbell, who was taken into custody in Ohio on Sept. 4 by the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office.
Campbell is now in Barren County facing two counts of first-degree unlawful transaction with a minor, procuring or promoting the performance of a minor by use of electronic means, promoting a minor in a sexual performance, second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor and second-degree sodomy.
The agency stated,
“This case highlights the importance of parents and guardians monitoring their children’s electronic devices and online activity. Children and teenagers can be exposed to individuals who may attempt to establish inappropriate relationships with them through social media, messaging applications, online games, and other electronic platforms. Parents and guardians are encouraged to maintain open communication with their children, be aware of the applications and platforms they are using, and periodically review their online activity and electronic devices. Any suspicious, inappropriate, or concerning communication or activity should be taken seriously and reported to law enforcement. The Barren County Sheriff’s Office encourages parents and guardians to talk with their children about online safety, recognizing inappropriate behavior, and the importance of reporting anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe. In this case, the report made by a concerned mother allowed law enforcement to begin an investigation that ultimately led to the identification and arrest of the suspect. If you see something suspicious, say something. Reporting concerns promptly can help protect children and potentially prevent further victimization.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
