WAXAHACHIE – Last week an Ellis County jury has sent a clear message to those who prey on children: “You will be caught, and you will be held accountable.”
Following a grueling trial in the 504th District Court, Patrick Kevin Hefner was found guilty of two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. Just a day later, he was slapped with a 50-year prison sentence for each count.
Garrett Police Department posted the news on Facebook, praising the absolute bravery it takes for a young victim to come forward and face the justice system. The department also gave a massive shout-out to Chief Michael Carter, who took the initial report and stayed fiercely committed to the case from day one.
Carter meticulously documented the allegations, stood by the victim, and ultimately took the stand to testify before the jury.
Crimes against children are incredibly difficult to investigate, requiring intense patience and a refusal to back down during a long legal process.
Garrett Police extended their deepest thanks to the Ellis County District Attorney’s Office and the jurors who listened to the evidence and ensured justice was served.