Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO), working with the Hammond Police Department, arrested 42-year-old Willie Jackson III of Natalbany for multiple charges related to the rape of a child relative.
Jackson was taken into custody on July 29 and charged with one count of first-degree rape of a victim under 13, one count of first-degree rape and molestation of a juvenile, and two counts of aggravated crimes against nature.
The case came to light in November when Hammond Police contacted TPSO’s juvenile detective team regarding a report from a 12-year-old resident alleging multiple instances of sexual abuse by Jackson. The victim revealed that the abuse spanned five years and took place in Tangipahoa Parish as well as at least two other states.
Following an extensive investigation involving state, local, and community partners including the Children’s Advocacy Center, authorities issued a warrant for Jackson’s arrest.
Despite efforts to locate him nationwide, Jackson remained at large until Hammond Police received a tip that he might be at a residence within their jurisdiction.
On the morning of July 29, TPSO and Hammond Police executed an arrest operation, successfully apprehending Jackson. The investigation remains ongoing.
