DFW News App

GLADEWATER, Texas (KETK) — A Gladewater police officer has been arrested on an indecency with a child charge in a case authorities say is linked to a former Houston County Deputy who was also arrested for child sex crimes.

Gladewater Police confirmed that Officer Kenan Robert Laza was arrested at his residence in Longview and was immediately terminated from his position.

The Houston County Sheriff’s Office later connected this case to another investigation in their jurisdiction involving former Houston County officer Skyler Laza, who was arrested on Wednesday on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child.

“It is sickening to me that someone who sought a position meant to protect and serve our community—especially our most vulnerable, our children—would instead be accused of committing such abuse,” Houston County Sheriff Zak Benge said.

Gladewater Police Chief Kyle Ready said that around 5 p.m. Thursday, the Dallas Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Division contacted him regarding an investigation tied to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Officer Kenan Laza.

“These actions represent a grave breach of public trust and a disgrace to the law enforcement profession,” Ready said. “The citizens of Gladewater can rest assured that this department will not tolerate such conduct under any circumstances.”

Ready reaffirmed his commitment to upholding honor, transparency and accountability, stressing that “the actions of one individual will never define the men and women who wear this badge with pride and purpose.”

Ready stated that the Gladewater Police Department is working in full cooperation with the Dallas Police Department and all other agencies involved. He emphasized the department’s commitment to assisting in every possible way to ensure a thorough investigation and that justice is pursued to the fullest extent of the law.

You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite needed—watch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming.