POWELL COUNTY, Ky. — Authorities in Powell County are actively searching for a man accused of committing sexual offenses involving a minor. The Commonwealth Attorney’s Office confirmed the ongoing search in an update released earlier this week.

According to the Attorney’s Office, Daniel Townsend is currently wanted on an active indictment warrant issued out of Powell Circuit Court. Townsend faces two counts of Unlawful Transaction with a Minor, 1st Degree – Illegal Sex Act, Victim Under 18, both serious felony charges under Kentucky law.

The announcement was first made through a Facebook post on October 22, as part of the office’s regular “Wanted Wednesday” series highlighting individuals currently being sought by law enforcement. The post stated:

“Daniel Townsend is wanted for an active indictment warrant for two counts of Unlawful Transaction with a Minor, 1st – Illegal Sex Act, under 18 out of Powell Circuit Court. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Townsend, please contact Powell County Dispatch at 606-663-4116 or Kentucky State Police, Post 8. Trooper Austin Miller is the officer on this case.”

The Powell County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police Post 8 in Morehead are assisting in the search efforts. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the case or the age of the alleged victim at this time, citing the ongoing investigation and the sensitivity of the charges.

The offense of Unlawful Transaction with a Minor, 1st Degree, involves engaging in or facilitating illegal sexual acts with a person under 18 years of age. If convicted, Townsend could face significant prison time.

Law enforcement officials are asking anyone who may have information on Townsend’s location to come forward. He is considered wanted and should not be approached.

Tips can be directed to:

📞 Powell County Dispatch: (606) 663-4116

📞 Kentucky State Police Post 8 (Morehead): [KSP Post 8 contact line]

As of now, the search for Daniel Townsend remains ongoing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

This report was compiled using information provided by the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and other publicly available law enforcement releases.