Putnam County – Indiana State Police initiated a criminal investigation in November 2019, after receiving information that a 14 year old female had been sexually abused.
The investigation revealed that a Justin M. Gardner, age 21 of Brazil, Indiana, allegedly had been engaging in sexual misconduct with a minor.
After reviewing the investigation, the Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office requested an arrest warrant for Gardner. Gardner was arrested yesterday afternoon in Clay County, by Senior Trooper Detective Jason Schoffstall. Gardner was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held in the Putnam County Jail without bond.
Arrested and Charges: Justin M. Gardner, 21, Brazil, IN
- Sexual Misconduct with a Minor, Level 4 Felony (3 counts)
- Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Class A Misdemeanor
Investigation was conducted by detectives of the Putnamville State Police Post.
Assisting Agency: Putnam County Department of Child Services.
Under the Law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.