(READHIMER)-A disturbing investigation this week has led to the arrest of a north Natchitoches man on sexual misconduct, narcotics and animal cruelty charges according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.

The investigation began on Sunday evening November 7 at approximately 10:28pm, when the mother of a juvenile under the age of 14 contacted the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office from Orange Texas Police Department, Texas reporting allegations of sexual misconduct involving her daughter while visiting her father’s residence in north Natchitoches Parish.

A joint investigation then began between the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office and Orange Texas Police Department.

Orange Texas Police Department briefly interviewed the victim and her mother then accompanied them to a Beaumont hospital for an examination and evidence collection.

The investigation continued.

On Monday morning November 8, the mother and victim traveled to Natchitoches to meet with sheriff’s detectives at the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau.

Detectives interviewed the victim and arranged an independent forensic interview with the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center in Alexandria.

The findings and facts in those interviews are case sensitive and will not be released but can be summarized as “very disturbing” according to Sheriff Wright.

Detectives did learn the alleged sex abuse has occurred for over an eight year period.

Based on interviews and evidence collected, detectives obtained sufficient evidence and probable cause to obtain a search warrant signed by a Tenth Judicial District Court Judge to search the residence of Kenny James Len Choate located in the 100 block of Strange Road in Readhimer, La.

Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force Agents responded to assist.

During a search of the residence, detectives seized several firearms, suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and electronic devices.

Detectives also discovered two malnourished dogs tied on the exterior of the residence that were seized by the NPSO Animal Services Division.

Deputies arrested:
Kenny James Len Choate, 37, of the 100 block of Strange Road, Readhimer, La. was placed under arrest, transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with Molestation of a Juvenile, Aggravated Crime Against Nature, Possession of CDS Schedule II Methamphetamine-2nd or Subsequent Offense, Possession of Firearms by a Person Convicted of a Felony and Cruelty to Animals.

A Tenth Judicial District Court Judge has set bond over 1 million dollars.

Choate’s wife, Crystal Michelle Choate, 36, of the same address, in Readhimer was issued a citation for Cruelty to Animals and released pending a court appearance.

Sheriff Wright wishes to commend the mother of the victim, all deputies that were involved in the investigation along with the Orange Texas Police Department, and Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center for their assistance.

If you are the victim of a sex offense, don’t be afraid to talk to someone.

If you have any additional information contact the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division at 318-357-7830.

The criminal case file will be turned over to the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office for review.

Case Agent: Detective Sgt. Jared Kilpatrick
NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau

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