News Release from Fort Payne Police Department – February 5, 2026
On February 3, 2026, warrants were issued for the arrest of Joseph Michael Holmes age 38 from Lafayette, AL for the charges of Traveling to Meet a Child for an Unlawful Sex Act, Rape 2nd, and Sodomy 2nd. With assistance from the Chambers County Sheriff Office, Holmes was arrested on February 3, 2026, and held until he was transferred to Fort Payna City Jail on February 4th.
During the investigation evidence was obtained that he had been communicating with a victim online and traveled to Fort Payne to meet the victim more than once. Once the identity of the suspect was determined, it was discovered he is a registered sex offender in Chambers County, AL for prior rape and sodomy crimes against children.
On February 5, 2026, Holmes went before the District Court of Dekalb County for his initial appearance. Holmes was given a bond of $250,000.00 and transported to the Dekalb County Detention Center.
I want to thank our officers and investigators for their quick and hard work in helping bring Holmes to justice. I want to thank our District Attorney’s Office for their work and dedication to help with the continued fight against crimes and exploitation of children. I would like to also thank the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office for their quick response in helping locate and arresting Holmes.
Chief David Davis
