Houston firefighter arrested on Austin County child grooming charge
HOUSTON - A Houston firefighter was arrested over the weekend on a charge of child grooming, officials confirm.
Houston firefighter suspended, charged with child grooming
What we know:
The Houston Fire Department confirmed that Jason Gaines was arrested Saturday at Station 90 on a charge out of Austin County.
Gaines has been with the department for more than 22 years.
HFD says he has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
Jason Gaines
The Bellville Police Department released additional details on Tuesday stating in January 2026 they received a call in regard to an adult male attempting to have inappropriate conversations through social media apps with juveniles.
Officials said while they were investigating the matter, more juveniles cvame foreward with information alleging Gaines was sending them sexually suggestive messages.
Authorities said after a thorough investigation, the case was presented to the Austin County District Attorney and Austin County Grand Jury, who charged Gaines with child grooming, which is a third-degree felony.
What we don't know:
Officials did not provide any information on how many juveniles have come forward.
The Source: The information in this article comes from the Houston Fire Department as well as the Bellville Police Department.