SULLIVAN CO.—A Kentucky man was arrested yesterday afternoon by the Indiana State Police (ISP) following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor in Sullivan County.
Vernon T. Brown, 30, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, was taken into custody without incident on a warrant issued by the Sullivan County Circuit Court.
The criminal investigation began on September 15, 2025, after the ISP Putnamville District received information from the Sullivan County Department of Child Services (DCS) regarding the allegations.
The subsequent investigation revealed that Brown had allegedly engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor under the age of 16 within Sullivan County.
Following a review of the evidence gathered, Sullivan County Prosecutor Ann Smith-Mischler requested an arrest warrant for Brown. The Sullivan County Circuit Court granted the warrant on November 21, 2025.
Brown faces a charge of Sexual Misconduct With a Minor, a Level 5 Felony. He is currently being held at the Sullivan County Jail without bond.
In Indiana, a Level 5 felony carries a potential sentence of 1 to 6 years in prison, along with a fine of up to $10,000. Conviction of this offense also typically requires the individual to register as a sex offender.
Indiana State Police Master Trooper Detective Angie Hahn of the Putnamville District conducted the investigation. Assisting agencies included the Sullivan County Department of Child Services and Susie’s Place, a child advocacy center.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
