Rapides Parish Sheriff's deputies have arrested an Echo man and accused him of multiple counts of child molestation and abuse, as well as hate crimes and attempted murder.
Joshua Wayne Dubroc, 37, was booked with 22 counts Molestation of a Juvenile younger than 13; 22 counts aggravated crime against nature; one count attempted first-degree murder; 13 counts aggravated second-degree battery, two counts second degree battery, six counts cruelty to juveniles (aggravated assault) and 57 counts hate crimes.
The investigation began back in January, when deputies received a complaint of physical and criminal sexual abuse involving juveniles under the age of thirteen.
Victims and witnesses were interviewed at the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center, located in Alexandria. During the investigation, evidence was discovered that indicated the suspect, identified as Dubroc, was biased against some of the victims based upon ethnicity and race.
With the assistance of the Louisiana Department of Child & Family Services, deputies made sure the victims were safe by moving them, and preventing any contact from Dubroc.
After an investigation described by deputies as "intensive and meticulous," warrants were obtained for Dubroc.
He was arrested at his home today, and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on the warrants.
His bond has been set at $2.5 million.
Sheriff Mark Wood says he would like to commend the deputies, detectives and agencies involved for the diligence and many hours put into this difficult investigation.
“The safety of our children is paramount and we will be vigilant in our enforcement," he said.
