By Staff Report
Dustin Collins was arrested by the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) on charges of sexual battery on a child and human trafficking following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving juveniles.
According to HCSO, the investigation began after multiple alleged victims came forward with statements accusing Collins of engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with them while they were juveniles. Investigators said the victims’ accounts corroborated one another.
The findings of the investigation were presented to the State Attorney’s Office. Based on the evidence gathered, as well as statements from the alleged victims and Collins, a judge signed arrest warrants charging Collins with sexual battery on a child and human trafficking.
HCSO said the human trafficking charge is based on allegations that Collins sent messages to juveniles offering money or other compensation in exchange for sexual acts.
Collins was arrested and transported to the Holmes County Jail.
Authorities said the investigation remains active and ongoing. Investigators believe there may be additional victims or individuals with information related to the case and encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.
AMBER PATINO 