A Shreveport man whose trial on sex charges was delayed a day this week as he sat in a DeSoto Parish jail on unrelated charges was found guilty late Tuesday, January 28, 2025, in Caddo District Court.

A three-man, three-woman jury in District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr.'s court found LaQuinton Eckles, 38, guilty as charged of Molestation of a Juvenile and Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile.

The Caddo District Attorney’s office called witnesses to prove that on Mother’s Day in 2022, Eckles molested the minor. One week prior to the crime, Eckles spent several hours with the now-15 year-old. On the night of the crime, the victim's mother consented for Eckles to visit with the child for two hours. He did not return the child as promised and kept her out past midnight.  The following day the girl reported the attack to her counselor, who notified the police.

The victim was interviewed at the Gingerbread House and that recorded interview was played for the jury.  At trial, Eckles denied ever being alone with the child.   The jury rejected that assertion, returning its guilty verdicts.  Following conviction, defense counsel moved for an appeal bond to allow Eckles to remain free pending sentencing.  Judge Hathaway denied that request, citing defendant’s arrest in DeSoto for unrelated criminal activity while on bond for the molestation charge.

Sentencing is set for February 18, 2025.  Eckles faces from 5 to 20 years in prison for molestation of a juvenile when the offender has custody or control over the victim, and up to seven years in prison for the indecent behavior with a juvenile conviction.

Bossier Sheriff Weekend Booking Photos January 24-26

Bossier Sheriff Weekend Booking Photos January 24-26

Caddo Correctional Booking Photos January 18th-24th

The following booking photos are those who were booked and kept at the Caddo Correctional Center this week. All those pictured are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Gallery Credit: Caddo Correctional Center

Caddo Correctional Center Booking Photos for Christmas Week

The following booking photos are those who were booked and kept at Caddo Correctional Center through Christmas week. All those pictured are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Gallery Credit: Caddo Correctional Center