A Las Vegas man accused of exploiting a child in Louisiana online and encouraging the child to take their own life has been arrested, extradited, and booked into jail in Lafayette Parish, according to the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said agents with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested 22-year-old Christian Jonathan Carnes of Las Vegas following an investigation involving an Acadiana child. Authorities said the child survived.
The case began after investigators received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which prompted further review of online activity involving the victim.
Arrest
According to the attorney general’s office, an arrest warrant for Carnes was issued on May 20. With assistance from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, investigators located Carnes in Nevada.
He was taken into custody and booked into the Clark County Detention Center. Officials said Carnes later waived extradition.
On June 11, he was transported to Lafayette Parish to face charges filed in Louisiana.
Charges
The attorney general’s office said Carnes faces multiple felony charges, including:
- Three counts of indecent behavior with juveniles
- Criminal assistance to suicide
- Two counts of computer-aided solicitation of a minor
- Extortion
Officials emphasized that the child involved in the case did not die.
Detention
After being extradited, Carnes was booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center. Authorities said no bond has been set at this time.
The attorney general’s office also confirmed that Carnes has an active federal arrest warrant connected to the same investigation.
Investigation
Investigators believe there may be additional victims across the United States. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review evidence and coordinate with federal and local agencies.
Officials encouraged anyone with information related to similar incidents to contact law enforcement, noting that online exploitation cases often involve multiple victims in different states.
FAQs
Who was arrested in this case?
Christian Jonathan Carnes, 22, of Las Vegas.
How did the investigation begin?
With a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Where is Carnes being held?
At the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center.
Did the child survive?
Yes, officials said the child did not die.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes, investigators say more victims may exist.
