Man faces charges after investigation into long-term sexual abuse

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Court records filed this week outline allegations in a sexual abuse investigation involving incidents reported to have occurred over several years and in multiple jurisdictions.

According to a probable cause statement, investigators were contacted Aug. 4, 2025, by a detective from another agency regarding allegations of inappropriate sexual contact. The victim reported being touched inappropriately on multiple occasions over a period of about 10 years. The suspect was identified as, 40-year-old, Christopher Garbett.

Investigators said the victim took part in a forensic interview and described several alleged incidents that occurred while alone with Garbett at different residences, including locations in Cape Girardeau and elsewhere. The victim reported unwanted touching during these encounters and said the incidents happened more than once.

The victim also reported waking up on one occasion with an unexplained mark and said there was no known injury that would explain it.

Authorities said they attempted to speak with Garbett through his attorney but were not given permission to interview him.

The court filing states the information was submitted to establish probable cause for charges and potential warrants. Investigators noted concerns that the suspect could pose a risk to a crime victim, citing the allegations in this case and a separate, active investigation in Scott County involving similar claims.

Officials emphasized that the allegations outlined in the filing are part of an ongoing legal process. Garbett is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.