BRAZIL — A former Clay County 4-H leader is facing a felony charge after state police and local investigators accused him of stealing nearly $29,000 from a local youth organization account.
Travis Nuckols, of Brazil, has been formally charged with a Level 6 felony count of theft in connection with missing funds from the Clay County 4-H Horse and Pony Club.
According to court documents, investigators allege that Nuckols misappropriated more than $28,000 from the club’s bank account between September 2022 and December 2025 while serving as the group’s leader. The funds were reportedly siphoned out through a series of ATM withdrawals, debit card purchases, and checks.
The financial discrepancies came to light after Nuckols stepped down from his leadership role and a successor took over administration of the account.
During an interview with the Indiana State Police, Nuckols reportedly admitted to taking the money, explaining to investigators that the unauthorized withdrawals became easy over time and stating that alcohol was a factor during that period.
Full Repayment Made Prior to Charge
Purdue Extension, which oversees the local 4-H program, subsequently arranged a structured repayment plan with Nuckols. According to officials, Nuckols fully repaid the missing amount across six monthly installments, completing his final payment in July.
Despite the full financial restitution, the formal Level 6 felony theft charge was filed following the conclusion of the police investigation.
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.
