The Denton Police Department has apprehended a local church youth director following accusations of child pornography and indecency with a child. According to the City of Denton, 63-year-old Craig Stone was arrested on Tuesday after a series of interviews throughout September with several teenagers alleging inappropriate conduct.
Reports emerged when, on Aug. 28, a teenager accompanied by a parent, disclosed Stone's purportedly improper behavior to authorities. Additional victims soon came forward, one of whom claimed to detectives the existence of sexual images of children on Stone's computer. Subsequently touching an adolescent male inappropriately, Stone openly admitted during further questioning by detectives. He also confessed to having naked images of minors.
The investigative actions of Denton detectives included a warranted search of both the church on Willowwood Street and Stone's residence on Tuesday. Documentation and digital evidence were seized as part of the inquiry. After his admission, Stone was taken into custody and faces charges of Possession of Child Pornography and Indecency with a Child by Contact, with bail set at $20,000.
While Craig Stone remains behind bars at the City of Denton Jail, the Denton Police continue to invite any additional information related to the case or other potential incidents involving Stone. Detective Marqui Curtis can be reached at 940-349-7727 for such matters. The authorities, knowing the profound impact of sexual abuse, urge any affected individuals to seek support. The Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas, at 972-317-2818, offers empowerment through education and healing, while Denton County Friends of the Family has comprehensive services available, including a 24-hour crisis line at 940-382-7273.
