Dekalb County deputy arrested for inappropriate sexual conduct with minors

Joshua Dane Wells / Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office

FORT PAYNE, Alabama (WDEF) – A Fort Payne man was arrested and charged with inappropriate sexual conduct with a minor.

The Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office received a tip from a concerned parent regarding part-time Sheriff Joshua Dane Wells.

Wells was a part-time deputy in the sheriff’s office and attended the Alabama Law Enforcement Police Academy to eventually become a police officer.

The sheriff’s office immediately began an investigation and, after several interviews, concluded that Wells had violated sheriff’s office policies, and he was fired.

A warrant was issued for Wells’ arrest and he was arrested on July 17, 2024.

Wells is currently incarcerated in the Cherokee County Jail.

“This past week has been a rough week for our office and our community. This event is a stain on our office and also on the entire police force. Police officers are expected to hold themselves to the highest standards and when they are accused of mischief it is not taken lightly. This behavior cannot and will not be tolerated! The last investigation we want to conduct is an investigation into one of our own, but right is right and wrong is wrong no matter who you are! The investigation is ongoing and there may be more charges pending. Please pray for everyone involved in this case and for our office as we continue to be here for you! God bless you!” said Dekalb County Sheriff Nick Weldon.