A Williamson County jury on Wednesday found Garrett Andrew Bailey, 37, guilty of continuous sexual assault of a child, leading to a life sentence without parole.
Verdict and Consecutive Sentences
The judge in the case ordered Bailey’s life sentence to run consecutively with a prior sentence he received in Bexar County for child sex trafficking. The decision means Bailey will serve both sentences one after the other, extending the total time he will spend in prison.
Investigation Roots in 2023
The case began in June 2023 when a joint investigation by multiple jurisdictions uncovered evidence during a child pornography investigation. While executing warrants, officers seized two children and placed them into Child Protective Services custody.
Victim Testimony
During an interview with one of the children, who was under the age of 14 at the time, the child disclosed that Bailey and a woman had sexually assaulted him in May 2023. The assault took place at a hotel in Round Rock, Texas.
Abuse Over Time
Detectives discovered that Bailey had occupied a significant position of authority and trust over the victim. They also found that the abuse had continued on multiple occasions, beginning in 2022 and extending into 2023.
Additional Case Links
The Live Oak Police Department also linked Bailey to a separate case originating in Comal County. That case involved the exploitation of a 10-year-old girl, further illustrating the breadth of Bailey’s criminal conduct.
Legal Process
The Williamson County jury deliberated for several hours before reaching a unanimous verdict. The decision was announced in the courtroom, and the judge immediately issued the life sentence.
Sentencing Details
Bailey’s life sentence carries no possibility of parole. The judge’s order to make the sentence consecutive to the Bexar County sentence ensures that Bailey will not be released from either conviction.
Impact on the Victims
The child who testified about the assault has been receiving counseling through the county’s support services. CPS continues to monitor the child’s welfare to ensure his safety.
Community Reaction
Local officials expressed relief that the justice system had delivered a strong verdict. Statements from the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office emphasized the seriousness of the offenses.
District Attorney’s Statement
The DA’s office released a press statement outlining the timeline of the investigation and the evidence that led to the conviction. They highlighted the cooperation of multiple law enforcement agencies.
Role of CPS
Child Protective Services played a crucial role by taking custody of the children involved in the investigation. CPS provided ongoing support and monitored the children’s environments.
Jurisdictional Cooperation
The investigation involved coordination between county, state, and federal agencies. This multi-agency effort was instrumental in uncovering the extent of the abuse.
Bailey’s Prior Conviction
Bailey’s earlier conviction in Bexar County for child sex trafficking added weight to the sentencing decision. The consecutive nature of the sentences reflects the severity of his offenses.
Legal Precedent
The judge’s decision to impose consecutive sentences aligns with precedent in cases involving multiple serious offenses against children. It serves as a deterrent for similar conduct.
Judicial Commentary
The judge’s ruling emphasized the need to protect children from individuals who exploit positions of trust. The life sentence without parole underscores the gravity of the crimes.
Law Enforcement Recognition
Law enforcement officials praised the thoroughness of the investigation. Their efforts highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in child protection cases.
Key Takeaways
- Garrett Bailey convicted of continuous sexual assault of a child in Williamson County.
- Sentenced to life without parole, consecutive to a Bexar County trafficking sentence.
- Investigation traced back to a 2023 child pornography probe involving CPS custody.
The case demonstrates the rigorous pursuit of justice for child victims and the legal system’s capacity to impose severe penalties on offenders who abuse positions of authority.
