Gainesville Man Charged with Rape and Incest

71-year-old Edward Britt arrested for abuse that began in 1993

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that 71-year-old Edward Britt was arrested on Thursday in connection with a sexual abuse investigation. Investigators obtained evidence that corroborated witness statements and determined the rape and abuse began in 1993 and continued for years. Britt has been charged with one count each of Rape (victim less than 14 years old), Forcible Sodomy, 2nd-Degree Statutory Sodomy, and Incest.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual abuse and the need for thorough investigations to bring perpetrators to justice, especially in cases involving vulnerable victims and long-term abuse.

The details

During the investigation, investigators obtained evidence that corroborated witness statements and determined the rape and abuse began in 1993 and continued for years. On Friday, the Ozark County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Britt with one count each: Rape (victim less than 14 years old), Forcible Sodomy, 2nd-Degree Statutory Sodomy, and Incest.

  • Britt was arrested on Thursday, February 10, 2026.
  • The abuse began in 1993 and continued for years.

The players

Edward Britt

A 71-year-old man from Gainesville, Missouri who has been charged with rape and incest.

Troop G Criminal Investigative Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol

The law enforcement unit that conducted the investigation into the sexual abuse allegations against Britt.

Ozark County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that assisted the Troop G Criminal Investigative Unit in the investigation.

Ozark County Prosecuting Attorney

The prosecutor's office that formally charged Britt with the crimes.

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What’s next

Britt is being held in the Douglas County Jail without bond, and the judge will determine if he will be granted bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual abuse and the need for thorough investigations to bring perpetrators to justice, especially in cases involving vulnerable victims and long-term abuse. It underscores the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies to effectively handle such sensitive and complex cases.