471
2 counts of Attempted Human Trafficking
2 counts of Electronic Solicitation of a Child
2 counts of Sexual Extortion
ATHENS-The Limestone County Sheriff’s Office announces charges against a Tuscumbia man following an online operation conducted by investigators.
On September 19, 2024, Limestone County Sheriff’s investigators were working undercover online to identify and apprehend individuals targeting minors. During this operation, an individual using a fake account initiated contact with an investigator posing as a juvenile. Despite being informed of the juvenile’s age, the suspect solicited sex requested nude photographs and offered $1,000 for a sexual encounter.
Billy Joe McGaughy
The same individual later contacted another undercover officer and repeated these behaviors. During these interactions, the suspect sent photos of himself, proof of payment, and his phone number. He also issued threats of extortion, demanding nude photos from the juveniles.
Through thorough investigative work, Captain Caleb Durden and Investigator Jesse Gibson identified the offender as Billy Joe McGaughy, 43, of Tuscumbia, AL. On October 1, 2024, McGaughy started serving a two-year sentence in the Alabama Department of Corrections for unrelated charges in Colbert County. His earliest release date is September 29, 2026.
Upon his release, McGaughy will face six warrants in Limestone County:
2 counts of Attempted Human Trafficking2 counts of Electronic Solicitation of a Child2 counts of Sexual ExtortionNo bond has been set for these charges, and McGaughy will be served with the warrants upon his release from prison.
“The Limestone County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our children. These actions demonstrate the dangers that exist online, and we will continue to dedicate our resources to identify and prosecute individuals who prey on children. This investigation stresses the importance of parents and guardians being vigilant about their children’s online activities and open communication about internet safety.” ~ Sheriff Joshua McLaughlin
Media Release/Limestone County Sheriff’s Department
