Sex offender, others arrested in Paulden following CPS search warrant

Yavapai County Sheriff Detectives served a search warrant as part of a Children’s Protective Services (CPS) investigation involving a home in the 400 block of Rio Trail, Paulden, which resulted in the arrest of 3 suspects.

They are identified as 32-year-old Aaron Foster, 33-year-old Elizabeth Lawson, and 21-year-old Jacob Owens.

Working with CPS personnel, detectives became of aware of safety concerns and abuse allegations involving 4 children ages 13, 9, 7, and 5 who reside at the Rio Trail home. Foster, who is a level 2 registered sex offender, is a stepfather to the children and Lawson is their mother. Owens is a family friend who was at the home when the warrant was served. During a search of the home, detectives found several marijuana and methamphetamine pipes in a bedroom where all 4 children sleep with both parents. The home was in complete disarray with trash, debris and clothes strewn everywhere. Dog feces were found on the floor in the unused bedroom.

Foster admitted to deputies he has a meth addiction and has provided and smoked marijuana with his 13-year-old stepdaughter. During interviews with the 9 and 7-year-old children, they admitted smoking marijuana provided by Foster. Lawson told detectives she had provided alcohol to her 13-year-old daughter in the past and had full knowledge that Foster gave marijuana to her children. She was also aware of Foster’s meth addiction.

CPS arrived and took custody of all four children. The investigation into specific abuse allegations is ongoing and additional charges are possible. Detectives confirmed information that Foster was in possession of a 9mm handgun. The firearm was not located during the search warrant. Several rounds of ammunition and 2 knives belonging to Foster were seized. Because Foster is classified as a Prohibited Possessor due to a prior felony conviction, he will be charged for this violation in the course of prosecution.

Owens was found in possession of a marijuana pipe and marijuana.

The 3 suspects were booked at the Camp Verde Detention Center. Foster was charged with Involving a Minor in a Drug Offense with multiple counts, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia x2 counts, Misconduct Involving Weapons, and Failing to Comply with Sex Offender Registration requirements. He remains in-custody on a $50,000 bond. Lawson’s charges include Involving a Minor in a Drug Offense (under 15 YOA) and Child Abuse x2 counts. She remains in-custody on a $7500 bond. Owens was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia and has been released

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