A Graves County man arrested, charged with sexual abuse of a child

GRAVES COUNTY, Ky. (KFVS) – A Graves County man is in custody as the sheriff’s office investigates the sexual abuse of a child.

According to the Graves County Sheriff’s Office, they are under a criminal investigation for sexual abuse of a child. The suspect was identified as 39-year-old Alex N. Powell of the Water Valley area of Graves County, Kentucky.

On Thursday, November 14, arrest and search warrants were obtained and Powell’s home was searched. Powell was not present at the time of the search and fled from authorities.

On Saturday, November 16, detectives received a tip that Powell was hiding in a remote wooded area off Ky Hwy 2422 near Camp Beauregard Cemetery. Multiple deputies began a search of the area, including using a drone operated by Mayfield Fire and Rescue.

After being identified by the drone, Powell began running through the densely wooded area where he encountered deer hunters who called 911. A chase through fields, woods and a water-filled creek led to Powell’s capture.

Powell was arrested and transported to Jackson Purchase Medical Center for medical clearance after stating he had used Fentanyl. After the eviction, he was taken to a detention center outside the province.

Powell was charged with sexual abuse of a child under 16, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and other charges.