North Austin News

The Austin Police Department (APD) has taken Keshawn French-Burton into custody, charging him with multiple offenses related to child sexual assault. French-Burton faces one count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, classified as a 1st Degree felony, and three counts of Sexual Assault of a Child, which are 2nd Degree felonies. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office has also charged him with an additional count of Sexual Assault of a Child.

The charges arise from several incidents involving at least three victims. Investigations reveal that French-Burton used various aliases and social media profiles to reach out to his victims, often misleading them about his age by claiming to be younger.

Authorities believe there may be more survivors who have not yet come forward. "Information gathered in our investigations suggests that French-Burton contacted other underage children via social media with the intent to engage in sexual activity," the APD stated.

In collaboration with Austin Public Health (APH), the APD is conducting contact tracing for any sexually transmitted infections linked to these cases. The department acknowledges the difficulty survivors may face in reporting such incidents but encourages those affected by French-Burton's actions to report if they choose. "We understand that survivors of sexual abuse may not wish to report to law enforcement. We respect and support you in that decision," reads part of their statement.

For those willing to come forward, reports can be made through the APD Child Abuse tip line or Crime Stoppers. Alternatively, individuals can seek assistance from the Austin Health Department or APD Victim Services counselors without involving law enforcement.