08/27/2026
Today, we are reminded why this work—and the collaboration behind it—matters so deeply. 💙
Childrenz Haven is incredibly proud of our team and our multidisciplinary partners who worked together throughout this case to support these two young women and ensure their voices were heard.
We recognize the tremendous courage it takes to disclose abuse, participate in an investigation, and stand before a courtroom to tell your story. We also recognize the families who walk alongside victims throughout that journey.
While a verdict cannot erase what happened, we hope today brings these young ladies and their families a sense of closure, validation, and continued healing.
To these young ladies: Your courage matters. Your voices matter. We believe you. 💙
Press Release
Jury Delivers 40 years TDCJ Sentence for Indecency with a Child Sexual Contact
The trial of Thomas Eugene Fuller began on August 24, 2026, in the 258th Judicial District Court with Judge Travis E. Kitchens Jr presiding. Fuller was charged with Indecency with a Child by Sexual Contact. The jury returned a guilty verdict and a 40 year TDCJ sentence. The District Attorney trial team included Assistant District Attorney Scott Ferguson, Victim Assistance Coordinator Megan Knighton and Sr Trial Associate Taylor Grimm.
During the trial, the victim testified regarding an incident that occurred while she was staying at the home of her adopted grandmother, where Fuller also resided. The victim described an inappropriate incident involving Fuller while she was in the home.
The victim testified that she did not immediately disclose the incident. She stated that Fuller made statements intended to discourage her from telling anyone. She later disclosed the incident to her mother, and the matter was subsequently reported to law enforcement.
Captain Craig Finegan of the Polk County Sheriff's Office testified regarding the investigation. The children were subsequently interviewed at Childrenz Haven. Following the forensic interviews, the case was presented to the investigative team and charges were filed. Fuller was subsequently interviewed by law enforcement and arrested.
The jury also heard testimony from forensic interviewer Kaycee Hendrix regarding the forensic interview process and the interview conducted with the victim. Hendrix testified that the interview was structured to use neutral, non-leading and non-suggestive questions and that the victim provided details about the incident.
The Polk County District Attorney's Office extends its appreciation to the victims for having the courage to testify and participate in the judicial process. Cases involving the sexual abuse of children can be extremely difficult, and delayed disclosure does not diminish the seriousness of the allegations or the courage it takes for a victim to come forward.
District Attorney Shelly Sitton stated:
“Children deserve to be safe, believed, and protected. When allegations of child sexual abuse are reported, our office is committed to thoroughly pursuing the truth and holding offenders accountable through the criminal justice system. We are grateful for the courage demonstrated by the victim in this case and for the work of the law enforcement officers, medical professionals and Childrenz Haven staff who assisted throughout the investigation.”
District Attorney Shelly Sitton extends her sincere appreciation to the jury for their service, attention, and commitment throughout this trial.
We are grateful to each member of the jury for their willingness to serve and for taking their responsibility seriously. Their service is an essential part of our justice system and our community.
The Polk County Criminal District Attorney’s Office sincerely thanks the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Childrenz Haven, and SANE Nurse Krysti Griffin for your professionalism, dedication, and assistance throughout this case.
Your hard work and commitment to supporting victims and seeking justice are greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continued partnership and outstanding service to our community.
The Polk County District Attorney's Office encourages anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or knows of a child who may be experiencing abuse to report it to law enforcement or the appropriate child protection authorities. Victims should know that they are not responsible for the abuse and that help is available.
