New Market man charged in child exploitation case

A man from New Market, Tennessee, has been arrested following an investigation into a child sexual exploitation case, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department. The investigation began after deputies were dispatched to a residence on Fielden Store Road on March 27 due to reports of suspicious activity.

Upon arrival, deputies found evidence suggesting potential child sex crimes, prompting further inquiry into the situation. The investigation led to the arrest of 59-year-old Leslie A. Byrd, who faces serious charges.

Byrd has been charged with three counts of especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, three counts of unlawful photograph, one count of aggravated sexual battery, and one count of unlawful possession of a child-like sex doll.

He is currently being held at the Jefferson County Detention Center with a bond set at $500,000.

Authorities from the Criminal Investigation Division and the Internet Crimes Against Children task force collaborated to conduct this investigation, revealing the seriousness of the allegations against Byrd.