The coordinated efforts of the Memphis Safe Task Force have led to the arrest of Derrick Cole, 46, for a string of serious felonies involving the sexual abuse of a minor and transmission of HIV, as confirmed by the U.S. Marshals. According to Action News 5, members of the task force executed the operation in the 2700 block of Browning Avenue on Thursday morning, bringing Cole into custody on charges stemming from an indictment returned in August 2024.
While facing allegations of criminal exposure to HIV, sexual battery by an authority figure, statutory rape by an authority figure, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and incest, Cole's arrest emphasizes the Memphis Safe Task Force's resolve in tackling violent crime, removing offenders from the streets to bolster community safety, their commitment is unwavering to their purpose even amidst challenges and complications, characterized by a determination that's reflective of every involved agency's joint mission to protect Memphis, a commitment that was clear in a statement obtained by WREG, which reinforced the task force's clear message: "those who commit acts of violence will be found, and justice will be served."
Currently held on a $500,000 bond, Cole's arrest unveils a saga of elusive criminality—as detailed by FOX13 Memphis, court records indicate that he had been a fugitive for over a year following the grand jury indictment. The indictment encapsulated the grave nature of the offenses, meshing public health concerns with profound breaches of trust and legality, as the accusations levied against him portray a pattern of abuse with multifaceted legal and ethical repercussions.
The Memphis community watches as the Safe Task Force's collaboration yields tangible results in the face of egregious crimes, their dedication signified by the operation's success and by the resolute tone echoed in law enforcement declarations, assuring Memphis that efforts to secure the safety and integrity of the community are ever persisting, are tireless and tailored to confront such violations head-on—and with Derrick Cole's detainment, that message has been delivered with actions that speak as loudly as their avowed declarations.
