The Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of a missing endangered female juvenile from Selmer, Tennessee, on April 12, 2026, according to a news release. Deputies Ethan Hester and N’shaun Cameron located the juvenile at a residence on County Road 3020 in Prentiss County.
After further investigation, the juvenile was safely returned to her mother, authorities said. During the response, deputies arrested Payton Heath Allen Bowen, 18, of Booneville, on charges of statutory rape and sexual battery.
Judge Craig Bishop set Bowen’s bond at $50,000, cash or professional bond only. The case will be presented to the next Prentiss County Grand Jury by Investigator Torie Jumper. Investigator Aaron Stolz assisted in the investigation.
Authorities indicated additional charges may be filed in Tennessee against Bowen in connection with the case.
