07/08/2026
Warning: The following release contains information regarding allegations of s*xual violence, human trafficking, and narcotics-related offenses that some readers may find disturbing.
The Bell County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the United States Marshals Service Central Kentucky Fugitive Task Force (CKFTF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Harlan County Sheriff’s Office, the Harlan Police Department, and the Evarts Police Department, has arrested 69-year-old Darrell Carnahan of Hale
Lane Loyall, Ky. following an extensive multi-agency investigation.
The investigation was led by Detective Hunter Luttrell of the Bell County Sheriff’s Office and Commonwealth Detective Justin Luttrell of the 26th Judicial Circuit.
Over the course of approximately eighteen months, investigators conducted numerous interviews, collected evidence, and reviewed electronic communications and other investigative materials.
According to the criminal investigation, detectives developed evidence indicating that Carnahan allegedly targeted vulnerable women and engaged in a pattern of criminal conduct involving narcotics, commercial s*xual exploitation, human trafficking, s*xual assault, unlawful restraint, and physical abuse. The investigation further alleges that some of the criminal activity extended beyond Bell County and involved victims from multiple jurisdictions.
The investigation includes allegations spanning several years and involved extensive cooperation between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Because this remains an active criminal prosecution, investigators will not be releasing additional details regarding the evidence or specific allegations at this time.
Based on the evidence developed during the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Carnahan with:
Human trafficking – commercial s*x activity,
R**e – 1st degree,
Assault – 1st degree,
Unlawful imprisonment – 1st degree,
Tampering with physical evidence,
Sexual abuse – 1st degree,
Sexual extortion,
Engaging in organized crime,
So**my – 1st degree, strangulation – 1st degree (domestic violence related)
Detectives believe additional victims or witnesses may exist. Anyone who believes they may have information relevant to this investigation, or who believes they may be a victim, is encouraged to contact the Bell County Sheriff’s Office, the Bell County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Harlan County Commonwealth Detective’s Office, or the Harlan County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
The charges are allegations only. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Also assisting on scene was the Commonwealth of Kentucky – Office of the Governor – Commission of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
