SPRINGVILLE – A Springville man was arrested on child molestation charges after an investigation by Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department Detective Andrea Barnett.
After a lengthy and thorough investigation into allegations that 48-year-old Howard Morris III molested two juvenile family members.
The incidents reportedly occurred multiple times between 2010 and 2014 in Lawrence County. After completing the investigation, Detective Barnett submitted a probable cause affidavit requesting a warrant for Morris’ arrest. Judge Robert Cline of Superior Court II issued a warrant.
On Friday, February 23rd, officers attempted to locate Morris after receiving the arrest warrant. Around 3:20 p.m., Morris was observed operating a vehicle along SR 54. Detective Michael Williams and other officers conducted a traffic stop. Morris was taken into custody without incident. While arresting Morris, officers discovered he had a loaded hypodermic syringe and methamphetamine.
Morris was incarcerated in the Lawrence County Jail for the warrant as well as the new drug possession offenses. He is facing four counts of child molesting, Level 1 felonies, two counts of child molesting, Level 4 felonies, sexual misconduct with a minor, a Level 4 felony, possession of meth, a Level 6 felony, and possession of a hypodermic syringe, Level 6 felony. He is being held on two bonds totaling $207,500.
