The investigation into Lockman began in March 2024 after the FBI arrested Matthew D. Constant, who had been serving as the superintendent of Owensboro Public Schools in Kentucky. Constant was accused of attempting to solicit sexual acts from children. In May, Constant was sentenced to 30 years in prison.
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While investigating Constant, authorities discovered WhatsApp conversations between Constant and Lockman in which the two men “discussed their shared sexual interest in children and exchanged illegal images of child sexual abuse.”
After seizing Lockman’s church-issued computer and cell phone, investigators found “multiple videos depicting minors under the age of 12, including material involving abusive conduct.”
“This sick individual placed himself in daily proximity to children and exploited his position as a minister to cultivate special relationships with vulnerable boys,” said Tom Wheeler, United States attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.
“This office will continue to pursue anyone who preys on children, no matter their title, position, or community standing,” Wheeler added. “Thanks to the swift work of our federal partners, he can no longer endanger the children he targeted and manipulated.”
Timothy J. O’Malley, a special agent for the FBI, said, “This sentence sends a clear message that anyone who exploits children—especially those who abuse positions of trust within their communities—will be held fully accountable.”
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“Protecting children from predators is one of the FBI’s highest priorities,” said O’Malley. “We will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify offenders, support victims, and ensure justice is served.”
This article has been updated to include a statement from Redemption Christian Church.
