A convicted sex offender has been arrested in Harris County, authorities say.

The Harris County Criminal Investigations and Patrol Division arrested Joseph Howard Ortkiese, of Waverly Hall, on felony harges, including one count of childs molestation and one count of sexual battery against a child under 16.

Ortiese was booked at the county jail with no bond until his first court appearance.

“I am proud of the work my CID and Patrol staff has accomplished on this case. We have taken another convicted sex offender of the street,”Harris County Sheriff Mike Jolley said. “Harris County children are a little safer tonight due to your Harris County Sheriff’s Office”

This investigation remains active. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 706-628-9400, or submit a tip through our website (https://www.harriscountysheriff.org).