3 life sentences for man convicted of sexually abusing child

MARIANNA – A Sneads man was given three life sentences plus 30 years in prison Thursday for sexually battering and abusing a young girl on multiple occasions, State Attorney Larry Basford announced.

Buckie O’Neil Barnes, 32, was found guilty as charged Nov. 30 after Jackson County Chief Prosecutor Shalla Jefcoat presented witnesses and evidence proving that Barnes had committed the crimes against a girl under the age of 12. The six charges were: two counts of Sexual Battery on a Person Less Than 12 Years of Age, and one count each of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation, Lewd or Lascivious Battery, Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition and Child Abuse.

Buckie Barns

At Thursday’s sentencing, Circuit Judge James Goodman handed down life sentences to Barnes on the first three offenses, and a combined 35 years in prison for the last three offenses. The sentences will run concurrently.

RELATED NEWS: Man guilty as charged in double homicide

OTHER NEWS: Gov. Ron DeSantis appoints Prosecutor Devin Collier to Circuit Judgeship position

The victim revealed the abuse during the course of another case, and it was investigated by the Sneads Police Department and the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center.

For additional information, contact Mike Cazalas at mike.cazalas@sa14.fl.gov or 850-381-7454.