BVPD: Man arrested after sexual assault case reopened
Share and Follow


BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) — A man now faces serious charges following the reopening of a case by the Bristol, Virginia Police Department (BVPD). Originally launched last year, the investigation into felony sexual assault and other allegations has been reignited.

According to a BVPD statement, the case, first initiated in December 2024, was revisited after a separate domestic violence incident emerged, alongside a distinct inquiry into Kent Bearden conducted by Detective Chris Cappetta.

This renewed scrutiny resulted in the apprehension of 66-year-old Kent Bearden, a resident of Bristol, Virginia.

Authorities revealed that Bearden’s location was reported on Wednesday morning, leading officers to find him at a McDonald’s in Bristol, Tennessee. The Bristol, Tennessee Police Department (BTPD) promptly took him into custody.

In Tennessee, Bearden is currently facing charges as a fugitive from justice.

The Bristol, Virginia, commonwealth attorney’s office approved extradition on the outstanding warrants, the release said. Bearden was charged in Virginia with one count of felony sexual assault, three counts of assault and battery against a household and family member, and one count of misdemeanor destruction of property.

The release said this investigation is a “great example of teamwork” by the BTPD, BVPD, the BVPD Special Victims Unit, and the BVPD Domestic Violence Unit.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Join the ‘Miles for Mammograms’ 5K to Support Breast Cancer Screening in Telfair

SAVANNAH, Ga. – This past Saturday, the Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter of…

Exclusive AP Interview: Vice President Harris Champions Democratic Efforts to Protect Working Families Amidst Government Shutdown

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – As the government shutdown continues, former Vice President Kamala…

Community Divided: Local Organizers and Opponents Prepare for Controversial ‘No Kings’ Protest

SAVANNAH, Ga. — As the nation braces for the “No Kings” protests…

Trump Initiates Efforts to Reduce IVF Expenses through Insurance Guidance and Pharmaceutical Agreement

On Thursday, President Trump introduced two initiatives designed to broaden access to…

How ChatGPT’s Insights Led a Michigan Woman to a $100K Powerball Victory

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — In an unexpected twist of fate, a Michigan…

Greeneville Road Revamp: Major Pavement Resurfacing Set to Transform Three Key Routes Next Week

In Greeneville, Tennessee, preparations are underway for a series of pavement resurfacing…

Prepare for 2026 Medicare Cost Hikes: Expert Tips to Maximize Savings During Open Enrollment

(NerdWallet) – A recent survey conducted by NerdWallet reveals that nearly 64%…

Legally Blind Artist Breaks Barriers with Impressive Tattoo Skills

POLAND, Ohio (WKBN) — Despite being born legally blind, Nicole Morrone channels…