POLK COUNTY, Texas — A Polk County jury has convicted Thomas Eugene Fuller of felony child sexual abuse and sentenced him to 40 years in state prison following a trial in the 258th Judicial District Court, District Attorney Shelly Sitton announced.
The trial began on August 24, 2026, with Judge Travis E. Kitchens Jr. presiding. Jurors returned a guilty verdict against Fuller for Indecency with a Child by Sexual Contact before assessing a 40-year term in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ).
Abuse Incident and Delayed Disclosure
According to trial testimony, the abuse occurred while the young victim was staying at the home of her adopted grandmother, where Fuller was also residing. The victim testified regarding an inappropriate sexual incident involving Fuller inside the home.
The victim explained to the jury that she did not immediately disclose the abuse because Fuller made statements specifically intended to discourage and intimidate her from telling anyone. She eventually disclosed the assault to her mother, who reported the matter to law enforcement.
Forensic Evidence and Investigation
Captain Craig Finegan of the Polk County Sheriff's Office conducted the investigation following the outcry. Law enforcement referred the case to Childrenz Haven, where a specialized forensic interview was conducted.
During the trial, forensic interviewer Kaycee Hendrix testified about the standardized interview process, noting that neutral, non-leading questions were utilized and that the child provided clear details of the incident. Investigators subsequently interviewed Fuller before placing him under arrest.
Prosecution and District Attorney Statement
The prosecution team was led by Assistant District Attorney Scott Ferguson, supported by Victim Assistance Coordinator Megan Knighton and Senior Trial Associate Taylor Grimm. SANE Nurse Krysti Griffin also assisted with the medical aspects of the case.
District Attorney Shelly Sitton commended the victim’s bravery in testifying, noting that delayed disclosure is common in child abuse cases and does not lessen the seriousness of the crime.
"Children deserve to be safe, believed, and protected," DA Sitton said. "When allegations of child sexual abuse are reported, our office is committed to thoroughly pursuing the truth and holding offenders accountable through the criminal justice system. We are grateful for the courage demonstrated by the victim in this case and for the work of the law enforcement officers, medical professionals, and Childrenz Haven staff."
Authorities encourage anyone with knowledge of child abuse to report it to local law enforcement or child protective services.
