Additional Charges Filed against East Texas Volunteer Preacher

By Staff Writer

LIVINGSTON, TEXAS – The investigation into allegations against Doyle Hodge II, a 40‑year‑old area church volunteer preacher previously arrested for Sexual Assault of a Child, has expanded with multiple new charges filed by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

According to investigators, Hodge is now additionally charged with Criminal Solicitation of a Minor (Sexual Assault of a Child) and Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. Detectives also confirmed that an additional warrant is being issued today for Indecency with a Child by Sexual Contact as part of the widening case.

Hodge’s total bond amount has now increased to $325,000 across all pending charges.

The Sheriff’s Office first arrested Hodge on May 29, 2026, after multiple adults and juveniles reported allegations of ongoing sexual abuse. Detectives initially identified up to five victims, and additional individuals have continued to come forward as the investigation progresses.

Authorities also confirmed that Hodge had volunteered at several local churches, prompting concerns that more victims may exist.

Anyone with information or who believes they may have been harmed is urged to contact CID Sergeant Kayla Hemperly at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 936‑327‑6810.

Sheriff Byron Lyons previously stated that this case is one of several recent arrests involving crimes against children in Polk County, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to protecting young victims and pursuing prosecution against offenders.

The Sheriff’s Office reports that the investigation is ongoing, and no further information is being released at this time.

Hodge remains in the Polk County Jail. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.