SVU Investigation Leads to Arrest of New Orleans Man in Terrebonne Parish

February 24, 2026

Terrebonne Parish Sheriff Tim Soignet announced the arrest of a New Orleans man, in connection with an investigation conducted by Special Victim’s Unit (SVU) Detectives of the Sheriff’s Office.  Joseph Olivier Ellis, 28, was arrested on charges, in connection with the investigation.

In February 2026, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Victim’s Unit (SVU) began an investigation into allegations of a juvenile having inappropriate communications with what was believed to be a 28-year-old male.  SVU Detectives met with the victim and a family member, who confirmed details of the inappropriate communications, and provided Authorities with documentation of the communications. 

Further investigation revealed the identity of the suspect as Joseph Oliver Ellis, 28, of New Orleans, La.  The investigation also uncovered a large amount of digital evidence, clearly connecting Ellis to the allegations of child sexual abuse. Detectives compiled the evidence to obtain arrest warrants on Ellis for charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, in connection with the investigation.  The warrant information was provided to the US Marshall’s Task Force, who began the search for Ellis.

On the early morning hours of February 13th, SVU Detectives learned that Ellis was arrested by the US Marshall’s Task Force, in New Orleans, La.  The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office began the process for Ellis to be transferred to Terrebonne Parish to face charges, which was completed on February 19^th.  Ellis was jailed at the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex, but later bonded out on a $150, 000.00 bond, by local judges.

Sheriff Tim Soignet would like to remind the public that this is an ongoing investigation.  Sheriff Soignet said, “As we all know, these types of cases are extremely difficult for the victim, family, and all involved.  Our SVU Detectives do an unbelievable job of not only dealing with very complex and tragic circumstances, but also the victims of our community.  Today our parish is safer because of the work they do.”

ARRESTED PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY

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