Kentucky State Police Investigate Sex Abuse in Fleming County

Flemingsburg, Ky. (January, 29, 2026) – On November 7, 2023 Kentucky State Police (KSP) received a call from Fleming County Sheriff’s Department requesting assistance in reference to sexual abuse allegations. 

KSP responded to the residence and launched an investigation into the allegations. During interviews three juvenile victims made disclosures about being sexually abused.

On November 11, 2023 an arrest warrant was obtained for James Monroe Barnes, 47 of Flemingsburg Kentucky, charging him with Sexual Abuse 1st degree (victim under 12 years of age) 120 counts. Once the warrant of arrest was obtained Mr. Barnes fled the state. 

On January 14, 2026, KSP  referred to the United States Marshals Service (USMS) – Central Kentucky Fugitive Task Force (CKFTF) for assistance in apprehending Barnes, and USMS CKFTF initiated a fugitive investigation on that same day. Information was developed that Barnes could be living in Alabama. USMS CKFTF sent a collateral lead to USMS Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force (GCRFTF) – Tuscaloosa Office, and, on January 21, 2026, USMS GCRFTF was able to locate and arrest Barnes in Nauvoo, AL without incident Barnes was transported to Walker County Detention Center in Jasper, AL, where he is awaiting extradition to Kentucky.

KSP was assisted by Fleming County Sheriff’s Department and United States Marshals Service. This case remains under investigation by Trooper Tyler Smith.

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