Bristol, Virginia, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Recent investigations in Bristol, Virginia, have led to the arrest of a 66-year-old man, Kent Bearden, on multiple sexual assault charges. Additionally, Tony Heath, a 28-year-old, was sentenced to nine years for raping two women he met online. Shawn Burke, also in trouble with the law, received a sentence of 10 to 25 years for sexually abusing a minor. These cases have drawn attention to the ongoing issues of sexual assault and abuse in local communities, prompting law enforcement to encourage more victims to come forward.
Bristol, Virginia – A 66-year-old man named Kent Bearden has been arrested and faces serious charges including multiple sexual assault incidents, three counts of assault and battery, and destruction of property. Bearden’s troubles began following an investigation that was initiated after an incident in December 2024. He was apprehended in Bristol, Tennessee, marking a significant development in a case that has deeply affected the local community.
In a separate case, Tony Heath, a 28-year-old man from Avonmouth in Bristol, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for raping two women he met online through social media platforms like Tinder and Snapchat. The victims, both in their late teens and early 20s, experienced severe emotional and psychological fallout from Heath’s actions. According to statements provided, the first victim was able to escape after being sexually assaulted, while the second victim was raped after agreeing to watch a film with him. Heath was convicted of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault at the Bristol Crown Court. Both women displayed remarkable bravery by coming forward, which aided the police investigation.
In another related case, Shawn Burke, a 37-year-old resident of Levittown, has been sentenced to serve between 10 to 25 years in prison due to serious charges involving sexual abuse and drug exposure of a 13-year-old girl. Burke faced charges that included involuntary deviate sexual assault and corruption of minors. Throughout the abusive period that spanned from 2019 to September 2024, he coerced one victim into silence through manipulation, providing her with drugs, while making inappropriate comments and engaging in forced sexual acts with another. The authorities revealed that the allegations against Burke were substantiated through search warrants and victim testimony, confirming the abusive incidents that took place at his home in the Dogwood section of Levittown.
These recent cases highlight the persistent issues surrounding sexual assault and abuse in communities across Virginia, as law enforcement agencies continue to encourage victims to come forward. The legal consequences faced by individuals like Bearden, Heath, and Burke illustrate the gravity of these offenses and the commitment of authorities to achieving justice for victims.
Supporting Information and Background
Sexual assault and abuse cases have placed a significant strain on communities, revealing underlying social issues that necessitate awareness and intervention. Local authorities are aiming to create safer environments for all residents, particularly vulnerable populations. The courage shown by victims in coming forward is often a catalyst for change, helping to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kent Bearden and what are the charges against him?
Kent Bearden is a 66-year-old man from Bristol, Virginia, who has been arrested on multiple charges including sexual assault, three counts of assault and battery, and destruction of property.
What was Tony Heath sentenced for?
Tony Heath, a 28-year-old man from Avonmouth, Bristol, was sentenced to nine years in prison for raping two women whom he met through Tinder and Snapchat.
What charges did Shawn Burke face and what was his sentence?
Shawn Burke, a 37-year-old resident of Levittown, was sentenced to 10-25 years in prison after being charged with involuntary deviate sexual assault and corruption of minors, involving the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl.
Summary of Key Features
| Individual | Charges/Sentences | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Kent Bearden | Multiple sexual assault charges, three counts of assault and battery, destruction of property | Bristol, Virginia |
| Tony Heath | Sentenced to nine years for raping two women | Avonmouth, Bristol |
| Shawn Burke | Involuntary deviate sexual assault, corruption of minors; sentenced to 10-25 years | Levittown |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Johnson City Man Sentenced to 41 Years for Child Rape and Incest
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Additional Resources
- WJHL: Man Arrested After Sexual Assault Case Reopened
- Wikipedia: Sexual Assault
- BBC News: Bristol Sexual Assault Case
- Google Search: Sexual Abuse Bristol
- WFSB: Man Pleads in Decade-Old Sexual Assault Case
- Google Scholar: Sexual Assault Court Cases
- Levittown Now: Man Sentenced for Sexual Assault
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sex Offender Law
- Local 3 News: Bristol Man Indicted for False Reports
- Google News: Bristol Sexual Assault Indictment
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
