Gadsden Man Arrested in Connection with Child Abuse Investigation

GADSDEN — On March 25, 2026, the Gadsden Police Department’s Juvenile Investigations Division arrested Andres Matias in connection with an ongoing child abuse investigation. Matias is charged with two counts of First-Degree Rape and one count of First-Degree Sodomy. Authorities report that he was taken into custody without incident.

The investigation began after a report of suspected abuse, which prompted the activation of the Etowah County Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT). The coordinated response involved the Etowah County District Attorney’s Office, the James M. Barrie Center for Children, the Alabama Department of Human Resources, and local law enforcement agencies.

A forensic interview was conducted, and the case was assigned to Detective John Ramsey. As the investigation progressed, additional information identified multiple victims and led to Matias being named as the suspect. Police say detectives handled the case carefully and deliberately, following the facts, which ultimately resulted in the arrest.

Due to the involvement of multiple juvenile victims and to protect the integrity of the case, officials will not release further details at this time.

Authorities emphasized the importance of reporting suspected abuse. “These cases don’t always start with police. They start when someone finds the courage to tell someone they trust. In this case, that moment led to a system stepping in, people working together, and action being taken,” the department said.

Officials encourage anyone experiencing abuse or aware of someone who may be to speak up. Resources and assistance are available to those in need.