On October 7, 2025, The Houston County Sheriff’s Office was notified that a juvenile had been sexually assaulted near the 100 Block of Market Street in the Wicksburg Community. Investigators quickly began gathering information and documenting facts of the case.
The victim was interviewed at our local Child Advocacy Center. As a result of our investigation, Thomas Ratcliffe (62) of Daleville, Alabama was identified as an offender. The investigation also concluded that the victim had been previously sexually assaulted by Ricky Paschal (66) of Wicksburg.
On October 8, 2025, The Houston County Sheriff’s Office and SWAT Personnel executed two Search Warrants in the 100 Block of Market Street. Various evidence was collected at each location.
In addition, Ratcliffe and Paschal were both located and taken into custody. As a result, Investigators arrested Thomas Ratcliffe and charged him with one count of Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12. His bond was set at $30,000. Furthermore, Ricky Paschal was arrested and charged with three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12. His bonds totaled $90,000. Both offenders remain in the Houston County Jail.
