Fox News Top Headlines for August 25
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.
A former Indiana sheriff pleaded guilty, as part of a deal, to more than two dozen charges stemming from allegations he spent millions of dollars in local funds on travel, gifts, cars and other personal expenses.
Former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel, 53, pleaded guilty Monday to 27 charges, including theft, official misconduct, tax evasion and money laundering, the Associated Press reported. He would serve 15 years in prison and pay more than $3 million in restitution under his plea deal.
Under the agreement, four counts of ghost employment alleging that Noel had his employees perform personal chores for him at his property would be dropped.
Special Judge Larry Medlock said Monday he was not against the plea agreement, but needed more time to hear from victims of Noel's alleged crimes before accepting the deal.
MULTIPLE PEOPLE ELECTROCUTED IN 'FREAK ACCIDENT' WHILE ENJOYING SWIM IN POOL: POLICE
Jamey Noel sits at a court hearing on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, at Clark County Circuit Court in Jeffersonville, Indiana. (AP)
"I want to hear from taxpayers that have been aggrieved by the actions of this individual," Medlock said.
Noel remains in the Scott County Jail on a $1.5 million bond.
He served two consecutive terms as Clark County's elected Republican sheriff before leaving office in 2022. Noel also previously served as chairman of the Clark County Republican Party.
Most of the charges Noel pleaded guilty to are in connection with his time as president and CEO of the Utica Township Volunteer Firefighters Association, which also does business as New Chapel Fire and EMS. The company landed several public contracts for fire and EMS service in Clark and Floyd counties under Noel. His employment was terminated by the association's board in January.
YOUNG INDIANA MOM OF 3 ALLEGEDLY KILLED BY EX-BOYFRIEND WHILE FILMING TIKTOK WITH FRIEND: REPORT
Noel remains in the Scott County Jail on a $1.5 million bond. (iStock)
Noel and his family allegedly spent millions of dollars on personal purchases, including travel, gifts, clothing and vehicles, according to the News and Tribune.
Medlock said in June that Noel had used the firefighter association's funds as a "personal piggy bank."
The Indiana State Police executed dozens of searches and uncovered payments for classic cars, college tuition and an aircraft.
Noel's wife, Misty Noel, and daughter, Kasey Noel, face separate charges of theft and tax evasion. Both women pleaded not guilty, and their jury trials are both scheduled for Oct. 28.
The Indiana State Police executed dozens of searches and uncovered payments for classic cars, college tuition and an aircraft. (iStock)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The plea agreement in Noel's case calls for him to pay more than $2.87 million in restitution to the Utica Township Volunteer Firefighters Association, more than $61,000 to the sheriff’s department, more than $173,000 to the Indiana Department of Revenue with his wife and more than $35,000 to the Indiana State Police for costs associated with the storage of evidence.
Noel would also be required to pay a fine, with the costs to be determined by the court.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
True Crime
The hottest stories ripped from the headlines, from crime to courts, legal and scandal.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
