A 34-year-old Clinton woman is facing felony charges following an investigation into alleged sexually explicit communications with a 16-year-old.
According to a probable cause statement filed Wednesday, October 1, in Henry County Circuit Court, Karissa Campbell is accused of communicating with the minor through Snapchat and participating in a sexually explicit video call on or about September 23. The alleged activity occurred in Clinton. Probable Cause Statement
Campbell has been charged with Grooming or Enticement of a Minor by a Person More Than Four Years Older Than the Minor and Sexual Trafficking of a Child – Second Degree.
According to the probable cause statement, Clinton Police Officer Nathanial Cothern began investigating after the minor’s parent reported discovering that the teenager had allegedly been sending nude images back and forth with Campbell. The parent also reported finding multiple still photos from a video chat in which the minor was clothed while Campbell allegedly appeared nude.
The officer wrote that Campbell admitted during an interview that she believed the teenager was a minor. According to the statement, Campbell said the teen had previously approached and kissed her at their workplace. She allegedly told investigators that several days later the teen contacted her through Snapchat and that the conversation became sexual.
The probable cause statement alleges Campbell admitted she then undressed and touched herself during a video chat with the teenager. Investigators also reported reviewing Snapchat messages between Campbell and the teen, including messages that allegedly discussed meeting and keeping the encounter secret.
According to the court document, the parents expressed concern that Campbell could continue attempting to entice their child if released. The officer recommended that Campbell be held without bond.
The allegations contained in the probable cause statement are accusations and have not been proven in court. Campbell is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
