Area Church Volunteer Arrested After Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse
By Staff Writer
LIVINGSTON, TEXAS – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Doyle Hodge II, 40, after multiple adults and juveniles reported allegations of ongoing sexual abuse. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the first reports came in on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, prompting an immediate investigation by the Criminal Investigations Division.
Detectives say they have already identified up to five victims, and additional individuals continue to come forward as the investigation expands. Due to the seriousness of the allegations and the need to protect the children involved, investigators quickly sought and obtained an arrest warrant.
On Friday, May 29, 2026, deputies arrested Hodge on an active warrant for Sexual Assault of a Child. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Hodge had served as a volunteer at several local churches, and investigators believe 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 said this case is one of several recent arrests involving crimes against children in Polk County. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting young victims, supporting families, and pursuing prosecution against offenders. Lyons added that the Sheriff’s Office will continue working with any agency dedicated to safeguarding children and ensuring accountability.
Hodge was booked into the Polk County Jail on the allegations, where he remains held on a $100,000 bond. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
