04/30/2026
💙This is why we bring awareness💙
As Child Abuse Awareness Month comes to a close, the Henderson County District Attorney’s Office is highlighting several major child abuse convictions secured during the first quarter of 2026. The cases reflect the office’s ongoing commitment to prosecuting crimes against children and seeking justice for victims and their families.
Among the most significant cases:
-- Michael Leonard Cunningham was sentenced to five life terms in prison for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, Sexual Assault of a Child, and Indecency with a Child. The sentence was handed down by 392nd District Court Judge R. Scott McKee. The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenny Palmer and Assistant District Attorney Jessica Bargann.
-- Derrick Montroll Henley was sentenced to three life terms in prison for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, and Indecency with a Child. The sentence was imposed by 3rd District Court Judge Mark Calhoon. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Bargann and Jeff Herrington.
-- Ashton Salsman was sentenced to two life terms in prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child by Judge McKee. The case was prosecuted by Palmer.
-- Randal Tidwell was sentenced to two life terms in prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child by Judge Calhoon. The case was prosecuted by Palmer and Assistant District Attorney Aaron Lilly.
-- Dwight Hugh Fitzpatrick was sentenced to two 40-year prison terms for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child by Judge McKee. The case was prosecuted by Palmer.
-- John Cox was sentenced to life in prison for first-degree Injury to a Child by Judge McKee. The case was prosecuted by Palmer.
“These cases represent some of the most serious crimes prosecuted in our courts,” District Attorney Jenny Palmer said. “Every sentence reflects the work of law enforcement, prosecutors, child advocacy professionals, and the justice system working together to protect children and hold offenders accountable.”
April is recognized nationally as Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about child abuse prevention, supporting survivors, and recognizing the agencies and professionals who work to protect children.
