Trimble County, Kentucky, November 26, 2025
Charles Kelton, the former Trimble County Sheriff, has pleaded guilty to harassment after a sexual abuse charge was amended. He will serve a 45-day jail sentence, which may be suspended upon adherence to his plea agreement over the next two years. This case has raised concerns about accountability among law enforcement officials.
Louisville, Kentucky
Former Trimble County Sheriff Charles Kelton has pleaded guilty to harassment after a sexual abuse charge was amended. He received a 45-day jail sentence, which he will not serve if he complies with the terms of his plea agreement over the next two years.
Details of the Incident
In February 2025, while on duty and in uniform, Charles Kelton was accused of grabbing a woman’s hips and pulling her against him after she rejected his advances. This incident occurred in the Trimble County Attorney’s Office. Initially, Kelton faced a felony charge of first-degree sexual abuse and a misdemeanor charge of official misconduct. However, the sexual abuse charge was amended to harassment with physical contact, and the official misconduct charge was dismissed as part of the plea deal.
Plea Agreement and Sentencing
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Kelton was sentenced to 45 days in jail. He will not serve this time if he adheres to the conditions set forth for the next two years, which include refraining from any further legal violations and having no contact with the victim. If Kelton violates these terms, he may be required to serve the jail sentence.
Background Information
Charles Kelton, 53, retired as Trimble County Sheriff on July 31, 2025. The charges against him stemmed from an alleged incident that occurred while he was still in office. The case has drawn attention due to the nature of the allegations and the position held by the accused at the time of the incident.
Related Cases
This case is part of a broader pattern of legal issues involving former law enforcement officials. For instance, former Chisago County Sheriff Richard Leon Duncan pleaded guilty to harassment and misconduct of a public officer in 2020, resulting in probation and a suspended jail sentence. Similarly, former Sumter County Sheriff Tyrone Clark pleaded guilty to multiple charges in 2018, including unlawful employment of county inmates and promoting prison contraband, leading to a suspended jail sentence and probation.
Public Trust and Accountability
These cases highlight ongoing concerns about accountability and the abuse of power among law enforcement officials. The legal outcomes in these instances underscore the importance of holding public servants accountable for their actions to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Charles Kelton charged with?
Charles Kelton was initially charged with first-degree sexual abuse and official misconduct. The sexual abuse charge was amended to harassment with physical contact, and the official misconduct charge was dismissed as part of his plea agreement.
What was the outcome of the plea agreement?
Under the plea agreement, Kelton was sentenced to 45 days in jail. He will not serve this time if he complies with the terms of the agreement over the next two years, which include not violating any laws and having no contact with the victim.
When did Charles Kelton retire as Trimble County Sheriff?
Charles Kelton retired as Trimble County Sheriff on July 31, 2025.
What is the significance of this case?
This case is part of a broader pattern of legal issues involving former law enforcement officials, highlighting concerns about accountability and the abuse of power among public servants.
How does this case relate to other similar cases?
Similar cases, such as those involving former Chisago County Sheriff Richard Leon Duncan and former Sumter County Sheriff Tyrone Clark, underscore the importance of holding public servants accountable to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused Individual | Charles Kelton |
| Position at Time of Incident | Trimble County Sheriff |
| Charges | Harassment with physical contact (amended from first-degree sexual abuse); official misconduct (dismissed) |
| Plea Agreement Outcome | 45-day jail sentence, suspended upon compliance with terms over two years |
| Retirement Date | July 31, 2025 |
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