Former Walker County Reserve Deputy Arrested

Multiple child sexual abuse charges have been filed against a former Walker County Reserve Deputy. The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) arrested James Earl Keller this past week. The 50-year-old is charged with multiple incidents of child sexual abuse. He is being held without bond pursuant to Aniah’s Law because first-degree sodomy is a qualifying factor.

Adding to the application of Aniah's Law by the court was the fact that Keller was working at a fair and would have been a danger to other children if allowed to be free on bond. The judge also believed Keller to be a flight risk.

After an SBI investigation, the Keller was taken into custody and charged with first-degree sodomy and second-degree sexual abuse with an underage child, according to court documents filed in Walker County District Court. The child is reported to be under 16 years of age but older than 12.

According to the complaint filed in Walker County District Court, Keller engaged in sodomy with a minor female child who was incapacitated due to intoxication.

Keller allegedly, "Enticed the girl to enter his garage with lascivious intent, proposing acts of sexual intercourse or sodomy, and facilitating travel for child sex."

The complaint further asserts that Keller arranged for the transport of the minor to a fairground, where he got the child intoxicated, fondled her, and later claimed she performed other sexual acts.

Keller is also accused of multiple counts of second-degree sexual abuse.

Keller appeared in Walker County District Court yesterday (April 25) before District Judge Henry Allred. He presented no evidence, nor did he call any witnesses according to court records.

This is breaking story that Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa will update when additional information becomes available.