LEXINGTON, Ky. – United States Attorney Jason Parman joins Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, in recognizing the exceptional work and dedication of HSI Task Force Officer (TFO) Anthony Gatson of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.
Today, TFO Gatson was awarded the 2025 Task Force Officer of the Year by Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, for his exceptional work and significant achievements in combating child exploitation through investigations and prosecutions in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
TFO Gatson’s investigations in child sexual exploitation contributed to more than 20 federal prosecutions in 2025 alone and resulted in multiple sentences exceeding 25 years. That work has continued. For example, in July 2026, Pamela Sargent was sentenced to 45 years in prison after TFO Gatson’s investigation uncovered that Sargent produced child pornography with two toddler victims and then distributed the videos to others.
“We are profoundly grateful to TFO Gatson for his steadfast commitment to protecting children and holding those who exploit them accountable. His investigative work has helped uncover horrific crimes, identify dangerous offenders and ensure they face significant federal prison sentences,” said Jason Parman, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “These cases are difficult, but TFO Gatson never loses sight of what is at stake – protection of children. Thanks to the collaboration between the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and HSI, our children live in a safer community.”
Beyond his TFO of the Year award, TFO Gatson is a highly respected and well-known member of Kentucky’s law enforcement community. With more than 30 years of distinguished service with the Kentucky State Police and now the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, he brings extensive experience and expertise in investigations, interviews, and interrogation. His decades of service and unwavering commitment have made him a trusted partner to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors across Kentucky.
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Source: U.S. Attorney’s Office — Eastern District of Kentucky — U.S. Department of Justice press release.