A Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent in Alabama has been charged with multiple serious sex offenses involving an underage girl, authorities said. Kent Blacklidge, 43, surrendered to authorities in Baldwin County on September 5 after a grand jury returned an indictment in the case.
The charges include first- and second-degree rape, sodomy and sexual abuse. The investigation began after Spanish Fort police received a report of alleged child sexual abuse involving a minor on January 11.
HSI Agent Placed on Leave After Investigation Began
Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber said investigators conducted interviews and collected evidence during the investigation before the case was presented to a grand jury. Authorities have released few details about the allegations, citing the need to protect the alleged victim and the integrity of the ongoing case.
According to police, HSI placed Blacklidge on administrative leave when authorities began investigating the complaint.
Barber also praised the alleged victim for coming forward, describing the decision to report this type of alleged abuse as requiring significant courage and strength.
Alabama Attorney General Takes Over Prosecution
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said the allegations were particularly troubling because Blacklidge’s professional responsibilities included working on child exploitation investigations.
Authorities said Blacklidge had been involved in cases concerning child exploitation and had worked with local law enforcement and community members to raise awareness about crimes targeting children. He had also reportedly participated in training for public school teachers focused on identifying online predators.
Marshall said his office is handling the prosecution because Blacklidge is a witness in some cases being handled by the local district attorney’s office. That created a conflict requiring the local prosecution team to step aside.
Officials emphasized that the allegations against one officer should not be interpreted as representative of the wider law enforcement community.
Blacklidge Released on Bond With Restrictions
Blacklidge was released from the Baldwin County jail after posting bond reportedly exceeding $350,000. His release comes with strict conditions, including electronic monitoring and home confinement.
He has also been ordered to have no contact with the alleged victim or anyone under the age of 18.
The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees Homeland Security Investigations, has declined to comment while the case remains under investigation.
Blacklidge has not publicly responded to the allegations. The charges remain allegations, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.
