Nevada Man Extradited To Lafayette Parish After Alleged Online Exploitation Of Acadiana Child

A 22-year-old Nevada man is now behind bars in Lafayette Parish after investigators say he targeted and exploited an Acadiana child through online communications, leading to a multi-agency investigation that stretched across the country.

According to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill's office, Christian Jonathan Carnes of Las Vegas was arrested and extradited to Lafayette Parish following an investigation that began after authorities received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Multiple Felony Charges Filed

Carnes is facing a series of felony charges, including three counts of indecent behavior with juveniles, two counts of computer-aided solicitation of a minor, one count of extortion, and one count of criminal assistance to suicide.

Investigators say the criminal assistance to suicide charge stems from allegations that Carnes encouraged the child victim to commit suicide. Authorities said the act was not completed.

An arrest warrant related to the case was issued on May 20.

Investigation Spanned Multiple States

The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation ultimately tracked down Carnes with assistance from several federal and local agencies.

Officials say the investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

After being arrested in Nevada, Carnes was booked into the Clark County Detention Center before waiving extradition and agreeing to be transported to Louisiana to face the charges.

Suspect Held Without Bond

Carnes has since been booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center, where he remains in custody without bond.

Authorities also confirmed that Homeland Security Investigations has obtained a federal arrest warrant connected to the same investigation.

Get our free mobile app

Officials Warn Online Predators Will Be Prosecuted

Attorney General Liz Murrill said the case demonstrates Louisiana's commitment to protecting children and aggressively pursuing suspects regardless of where they live.

"This case should serve as a clear warning: if anyone intends to do harm to a child in the State of Louisiana, we will find you and extradite you here to face the Louisiana justice system," Murrill said in a statement.

Investigators believe Carnes may have victimized other children across the United States and continue to examine evidence gathered during the investigation.

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact law enforcement.

A Reminder For Parents

Law enforcement agencies continue to urge parents to discuss online safety with their children, remain aware of who they are communicating with, and report suspicious activity immediately.

The investigation remains ongoing.