Tennessee Child Abuse Arrests

Tennessee couple arrested on child abuse and neglect charges following anonymous tip.

Story Highlights

Harry James Reed II and Alexis D. Austin were arrested after a 10-month search.
The couple faces aggravated child abuse and neglect charges involving a child under eight.
An anonymous tip submitted through a digital app led to their apprehension.
Authorities credit community cooperation for the arrests.

Harry James Reed II, 26, and Alexis D. Austin, 22, were arrested on October 8, 2025, at a residence in Gray, Tennessee. The arrests followed an anonymous tip submitted via the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Tip 411 app. The couple had been sought by law enforcement for approximately 10 months after being indicted in January 2025 on charges related to child abuse. Sheriff Keith Sexton acknowledged the anonymous tipster and community assistance in the successful apprehension of the suspects.

A Tennessee couple who were on the run for 10 months after being indicted on child abuse charges have been captured, thanks to an anonymous tip.

Harry James Reed II, 26, & Alexis D. Austin, 22, were arrested this week at a home in Gray, Tennessee. They were indicted in January… pic.twitter.com/tB7A7q5DIa

— True Crime Updates (@TrueCrimeUpdat) October 9, 2025

The grand jury indictment includes charges of aggravated child abuse, neglect of a child under eight, aggravated child endangerment, and child endangerment. These charges stem from an investigation initiated in January 2024. Specific details regarding the alleged abuse have not been released by law enforcement to protect the child’s privacy and maintain the integrity of the ongoing case.

The use of the Tip 411 app was instrumental in the arrests, demonstrating how digital platforms can facilitate community involvement in law enforcement efforts. Despite previous investigative attempts by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, traditional methods had not resulted in locating Reed and Austin.

Reed is currently held on a $75,000 bond, which includes additional warrants for failure to appear and probation violations. Austin is held on a $50,000 bond at the Washington County Detention Center. Both individuals are awaiting further legal proceedings.

Watch the report: WCSO: Johnson City pair wanted for child abuse, neglect in custody