Barton back in Acadia; held without bond

A former Crowley resident and convicted Tier 3 sex offender waived extradition and was returned to Acadia Parish Monday afternoon.
Sheriff Wayne Melancon said deputies drove to Chambers County, Texas, on Monday and transported Lance Barton, 57, back to Acadia Parish for charges of molestation of a juvenile that were filed against him earlier this month.
Barton had been missing since he failed to appear for a court hearing in Acadia.
He was apprehended the next day in Chambers County with the help of U.S. Marshal’s Office.
Chief Deputy Keith Latiola said during a press conference late last week that Barton probably fled because he found out investigators were working a case against him.
Strangely enough, Latiola said Barton did register as a sex offender once he arrived in Texas, helping the U.S. Marshals locate him fairly quickly.
“Tier 3” categorizes those who are the most dangerous or repetitive sex offenders. Anyone convicted as a Tier 2 offender who re-offends is generally categorized in this third tier.
These convictions are also punishable by one or more years in prison.
Offenses considered to be Tier 3 include:
• non-parental kidnapping of a minor;
• a sexual act with another by force or threat,;
• a sexual act with another who has been rendered unconscious or involuntarily drugged, or who is otherwise incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct or declining to participate; or
• sexual contact with a minor 12 years of age or younger, including offenses that cover sexual touching of or contact with the intimate parts of the body, either directly or through the clothing.
District Judge Kristian Earles is ordering Barton to be held without bond.