A 40-year-old Onalaska man is behind bars after several adults and juveniles reported what investigators describe as ongoing sexual abuse in Polk County. Deputies say they have identified at least five victims so far, and more people have come forward as the investigation continues. The suspect, identified in booking records as Doyle Gene Hodge II, is being held on a $100,000 bond.
Investigation Timeline and Scope
According to Click2Houston, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office opened its investigation after deputies received multiple reports on May 27. In interviews over the following days, investigators say they identified at least five victims, and detectives are continuing to look for others who may have been harmed.
Arrest, Charges and Community Ties
KTRE reports that Hodge was taken into custody Friday and booked into the Polk County Jail on a sexual-assault-of-a-child warrant. The sheriff’s office told reporters that Hodge had volunteered at several local churches. Investigators are asking anyone with information, or anyone who believes they may have been a victim, to contact CID Sgt. Kayla Hemperly at 936-327-6810.
Legal Implications
Hodge faces a felony charge. If he is convicted, he would be subject to the penalties that apply to sex offenses against children, along with the state’s sex offender registration requirements. The Texas Department of Public Safety outlines registration rules and the consequences for failing to comply, which can include additional criminal charges.
How to Report
Anyone with tips or information about possible victims is urged to call the Polk County Sheriff’s Office nonemergency line or CID at 936-327-6810. If someone is in immediate danger, authorities say to call 911. Investigators also ask that potential witnesses preserve any messages, photos or other media that could be evidence and contact law enforcement directly rather than posting materials on social media.
