Former Clark County sheriff Jamey Noel accused of corrupt business influence, theft, ghost employment and official misconduct

CLARK COUNTY — The Indiana State Police Special Investigation Division has arrested 52-year-old Jamey Noel, the former Clark County sheriff, and current Utica Volunteer Fire Fighters Association Chief on 15 felony charges following a nearly five-month long investigation.

Detectives began their extensive investigation on June 13 after receiving several criminal allegations of official misconduct from the current Clark County sheriff, who, along with his personnel have been cooperative throughout this investigation.

Ripley County Prosecutor Richard J. Hertel was assigned as the special prosecutor in the case on July 27th by Special Judge Larry Medlock and was recently presented the case for review.  As a result, Indiana State Police said the following criminal charges have been levied against Noel:

  • One (1) count of Corrupt Business Influence, Level 5 Felony
  • Two (2) counts of Theft, Level 5 Felony
  • Three (3) counts of Theft, Level 6 Felony
  • Four (4) counts of Ghost Employment, Level 6 Felony
  • Four (4) counts of Official Misconduct, Level 6 Felony
  • One (1) count of Obstruction of Justice, Level 6 Felony

Noel was taken into custody late Wednesday afternoon without incident and with his attorney present. He was booked into the Clark County Detention Center before being transferred to and incarcerated in the Scott County Detention Center without bond.

His initial appearance was early Thursday afternoon, in the Clark Circuit Court No. 1, and a cash bond of $75,000 was set.

This investigation is still ongoing and no further information will be released at this time, state police said.