ST. CLAIRSVILLE, OH – A collaborative investigation between law enforcement agencies in Ohio and West Virginia has resulted in the arrest of a Moundsville man in connection with the rape of a child under thirteen years of age.
On Monday, July 21, 2025, Carson Cawthon, 19, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was arrested and booked into the Belmont County Jail on the aforementioned charge.
The investigation was initiated by the Martins Ferry Police Department. Upon discovering that some of the alleged criminal activity may have occurred outside city limits, their department promptly contacted the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office. The two agencies then commenced a joint investigation into the allegations.
On Friday, July 18, 2025, the investigation expanded to include the Moundsville Police Department in West Virginia. The assistance of the Moundsville Police was instrumental in obtaining and executing a search warrant at Mr. Cawthon’s residence.
This is an active and ongoing investigation, with the potential for additional charges to be filed. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere gratitude to the Martins Ferry Police Department and the Moundsville Police Department for their professionalism and vital cooperation in this case.
Anyone who may have information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office at (740) 695-7933 or the Martins Ferry Police Department at (740) 633-2121.
