Jones County sheriff’s deputy fired, arrested for child sex exploitation, authorities say

Jones County deputy Kevin Harden, 42, of Gray was arrested Thursday after a GBI search of his home, according to a statement from the GBI Friday afternoon.

GBI agents found electronic devices that held child pornography material, according to the statement.

Harden was held the Jackson County jail after the arrest, the statement said.

“The sexual exploitation of children will not be tolerated at any level, particularly from those in law enforcement that are sworn to protect,” said GBI Special Agent in Charge Brian Johnston in the statement. “Jones County Sheriff R.N. “Butch” Reece and his department was instrumental in assisting in this investigation and making sure that Harden was held accountable for his actions.”

In a Facebook post Thursday afternoon, Reece wrote that Harden had been fired and then arrested.

“This morning I had the distinct duty to fulfill an oath I initially took over 42 years ago by firing and subsequently arresting one of my deputies that failed to fulfill his oath,” Reece wrote. “Personally I am disgusted by this behavior and wish to convey my prayers to any child or parent who have been victims of Sexual Exploitation.”

This story was originally published April 13, 2023 at 4:33 PM.