Former Florida Deputy Accused of Targeting Coryell County Child

Authorities announced on December 20 that James Ford, a former deputy in Florida, was indicted on federal charges after investigators say he used a TikTok account to solicit explicit images from a 10 year old child in Coryell County. Investigators allege Ford asked the child for nude pictures and sent images of his genitals, and they used one of those images to link the social media account to him.

The case moved across jurisdictions as Texas investigators notified the Charlotte County Florida Sheriff’s Office, which initially arrested Ford. Federal agents then took custody and charged him with harmful communication with a minor, and federal prosecutors later added counts including coercion and transfer of obscene materials to minors. Court records show Ford is scheduled to appear in federal court and that a trial date was set for February 2026.

The indictment underscores how online platforms can create cross state investigations and bring federal jurisdiction into local crimes. For Coryell County residents the matter is a reminder that federal and state law enforcement routinely coordinate when alleged abuse crosses state lines or involves the use of the internet. The use of a social media image as digital evidence illustrates current investigative techniques and the ways local cases can rapidly expand into larger probes.

Local officials have not released detailed court filings and have cited the ongoing investigation in limiting public comment. The identity of the child has been protected consistent with federal and state law. Community leaders and law enforcement sources emphasize the need for vigilance among parents and caregivers about children’s online activity, and for prompt reporting when suspicious communications occur.

As the case proceeds toward trial in February, residents can expect continued involvement from multiple agencies. The indictment and upcoming federal proceedings will shape how local officials and families understand the risks posed by social media platforms and how they respond to suspected exploitation of minors.