LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- A Lafayette family is furious after a man accused of sex crimes against children was released from jail on a bond they feel was too low for the crimes he's accused of.

Tommy West, 43, was arrested in New Iberia on Sunday. Two days later, he was transferred to the Lafayette Parish jail, where he bonded out the same day for $35,000.

The crimes he's charged with are indecent behavior with juveniles and three counts of sexual battery.

"We need to do better with our justice system and not give these guys a chance to run off before they get prosecuted," said a family member of the alleged victims, who chose to remain anonymous for their safety.

The family who alerted authorities says West's charges stem from his alleged actions with two girls, both younger than 13.

"It's very hard because we're watching children going through this. And they have to live with it every day. That ruins children's lives. That's a major trauma," the family said.

The family captured a photo of West's arrest in New Iberia. They led their own manhunt to help authorities find him.

"We don't want him getting into a relationship with someone to get to someone else's child," they said. "We're trying to prevent this from happening again, and we're pretty sure there's other victims he's had in the past we're hoping are going to come forward."

As West awaits his next court appearance, the family of the alleged victims wants parents to stay alert.

"Be vigilant. Do background checks. Don't bring men you're dating home even when it gets more serious. You just have to be very careful. Be careful about who you trust because it could be the person next door. It could be your family member. It could be anyone," they told News 10.

The Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation.

Latest News