Accused child predator arrested here

Parents are being asked to be extra vigilant after an Amarillo man was arrested here and faces multiple counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.

Donley County Sheriff Butch Blackburn says parents need to pay attention what their kids are doing on smart phones and on social media.

“I want to wake up parents in Donley County,” he said. “This is as bad as murder… or maybe worse.”

Blackburn said Vincent Darnell Williams, age 47, was arrested Sunday afternoon following an investigation by the sheriff’s office.

A concerned mother brought a phone to authorities which contained text messages and other evidence showing that Williams had been grooming and performing sexual acts with a child who was 13 years old when the crimes began.

Blackburn filled out a probable cause affidavit and obtained an arrest warrant and then lured Williams back to Clarendon where he was arrested by the sheriff and Deputy John Lockhart.

Williams was charged with two counts of first degree felony Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and three second degree charges of Sexual Assault of a Child. At his arraignment Tuesday afternoon, Williams’ total bond for all counts was set at $175,000.

Blackburn said he is working with The Bridge – Children’s Advocacy Center to find possible resources to educate parents about the dangers facing today’s kids and about activities that kids are engaged in.

In the meantime, the sheriff says parents need to be aware the dangers facing children.

“This is proof there are predators who will come to Clarendon and seek out children,” Blackburn said. “I want to urge parents like they haven’t been urged before. Check your kids’ phones and social media every day and know what they are up to and who they are talking to.”