Paul Thames Arrested in Waco After Assaulting 3-Year-Old at Barron Branch Apartments

Paul Thames, 29, was arrested and charged with injury to a child following a violent assault on a 3-year-old boy at the Barron Branch Apartments in Waco, authorities confirmed. Thames was taken into custody and booked into the McLennan County Jail, while the child has been released from the hospital after receiving medical care.

The Waco Police Department became aware of the incident after a video circulated on social media showing the assault. Police say the video depicted a “horrendous assault” by an adult male and prompted immediate action.

Officers responded Friday, January 16, 2026, at 5:27 p.m., to the 2400 block of Corporation Parkway after a witness reported the incident. Police obtained video doorbell footage showing the suspect physically attacking the child.

Detectives from Waco PD’s Crimes Against Children Unit are handling the ongoing investigation. Authorities confirmed that the suspect and the victim are known to each other, but details regarding the relationship have not been disclosed.

The Waco Police Department thanked the public for promptly reporting the incident and emphasized its commitment to a thorough investigation. Officials said updates will be provided as the investigation continues.