Cleveland, Texas, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Christopher Franklin Durham, a 37-year-old resident of Cleveland, Texas, was arrested for continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14. The Cleveland Police Department began investigating in early August, leading to an arrest warrant approved by a municipal court judge. Following his apprehension in Walker County, he was extradited to the Cleveland Police Department Jail. Police Chief Broussard emphasized the community’s commitment to justice in such serious cases, while numerous agencies collaborated in this effort to support the victim.
Cleveland Man Arrested for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child Under 14
On October 7, 2025, Christopher Franklin Durham, a 37-year-old resident of Cleveland, Texas, was arrested in Walker County. He was taken into custody due to an outstanding warrant stemming from allegations of continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14, a crime classified as a first-degree felony.
The investigation into Durham began in early August 2025 when the Cleveland Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division started working alongside the forensic interview team from the Bridgehaven Child Advocacy Center. Through a thorough investigation, detectives were able to gather enough evidence to seek an arrest warrant. By the end of August 2025, Cleveland Municipal Court Judge Ralph Fuller approved the warrant, enabling law enforcement to proceed with the apprehension.
Detective Sgt. Cooke of the Cleveland Police Department emphasized that efforts were made to bring closure to the victim and her family throughout the investigation. Following his arrest in Walker County on October 7, Durham was subsequently extradited to the Cleveland Police Department Jail the next day, on October 8, 2025. Judge Fuller set Durham’s bond at $200,000.
The seriousness of the allegations has prompted Cleveland Police Chief Broussard to reaffirm the city’s commitment to addressing such behavior. The Chief highlighted the importance of seeking justice to the fullest extent of the law, indicating that the community would not tolerate such actions.
The Cleveland Police Department also expressed its gratitude to all agencies involved in the case. This collaborative effort included support from the Liberty County District Attorney’s Office, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, Huntsville Police Department, Walker County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bridgehaven Child Advocacy Center. Together, these organizations worked to ensure that justice is pursued for the victim while also supporting the investigation process.
Background Context
Continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14 is a serious offense that carries severe legal consequences. In Texas, it is designated as a first-degree felony, which can result in significant prison time if convicted. Child Advocacy Centers such as Bridgehaven serve as crucial resources for victims of such crimes, providing forensic interviews and support services aimed at assisting children and their families through the legal system.
Current Status
As of now, Durham is being held in custody with a bond set at $200,000. The case is expected to continue as the legal proceedings unfold, and authorities remain committed to ensuring justice for the victim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in connection with the allegations of sexual abuse?
Christopher Franklin Durham, a 37-year-old resident of Cleveland, Texas, was arrested.
What was the reason for Durham’s arrest?
He was arrested due to an outstanding warrant for continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, which is classified as a first-degree felony.
When did the investigation begin?
The investigation into Durham commenced in early August 2025.
What agency conducted the investigation?
The investigation was conducted by the Cleveland Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division in collaboration with the Bridgehaven Child Advocacy Center’s forensic interview team.
What is the current status of the case?
Durham was detained at the Walker County Jail on October 7, 2025, and was extradited to the Cleveland Police Department Jail on October 8, 2025. His bond was set at $200,000.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Christopher Franklin Durham |
| Age | 37 |
| Location of Arrest | Walker County, Texas |
| Date of Arrest | October 7, 2025 |
| Charges | Continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 (first-degree felony) |
| Bond Amount | $200,000 |
| Investigation Start Date | Early August 2025 |
| Key Agencies Involved | Cleveland Police Department, Bridgehaven Child Advocacy Center |
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Additional Resources
- Bluebonnet News
- KBTX
- Fox 26 Houston
- Julie Roys
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Sexual Abuse
- Google Search: Child Sexual Abuse
- Google Scholar: Child Sexual Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Abuse
- Google News: Texas Child Abuse
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