Early Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault of Child

Joshua Clark Radle, 36, confessed to assaulting 12-year-old during sleepover

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:19pm

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The Early Police Department announced the arrest of 36-year-old Joshua Clark Radle for the aggravated sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl during a sleepover at a residence in Early, Texas. Radle also faces allegations of sexual contact with three other 13-year-old girls, though he only confessed to the incident with the 12-year-old victim. Radle is currently in the Brown County Jail on a $150,000 bond as the investigation continues.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious and disturbing nature of child sexual abuse, which can have long-lasting trauma for victims. It also raises concerns about the safety of children during sleepovers and the need for increased vigilance and protective measures in such settings.

The details

According to the police press release, the Early Police Department was notified on March 3, 2026 of the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl and sexual contact with three other 13-year-old females during a sleepover at a residence in Early. Radle, who is a relative of one of the victims, confessed to the assault of the 12-year-old after being interviewed by Detective Means. Radle turned himself in to the police on March 6th and was charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.

  • On March 3, 2026, the Early Police Department was notified of the incidents.
  • On March 5, 2026, a forensic interview was conducted with the 12-year-old victim.
  • On March 6, 2026, Radle turned himself in to the Early Police Department.

The players

Joshua Clark Radle

A 36-year-old male from Early, Texas who was charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.

Early Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the case and made the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“The investigation is continuing into the other sexual contact allegations with other victims.”

— Early Police Department

What’s next

The judge will decide on Radle's bail at a hearing on March 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for increased vigilance and protective measures to safeguard children, especially during sleepovers and other social gatherings where they may be vulnerable to predatory behavior.