The North Vernon man is facing felony child molesting.
Austin Locke. Photo by Jennings County Sheriff's Office.
(North Vernon, Ind.) - On January 3, Detectives with the Jennings County Sheriff’s Office were notified by the Department of Child Services (DCS) of a report involving the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old female juvenile.
The report stemmed from the juvenile giving birth to a child.
During a thorough investigation, detectives obtained DNA samples from Austin Locke, 25, of North Vernon and the infant. The samples were submitted to the Indiana State Police Forensics Laboratory in Indianapolis for analysis. Results confirmed that Austin Locke is the biological father of the child.
Locke was subsequently arrested and transported to the Jennings County Jail. While in custody, he admitted to having sexual relations with the 13-year-old victim.
Austin Locke has been charged with Level 1 felony child molesting. He is being held in the Jennings County Jail with no bond.
The Jennings County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate this case. Due to the sensitive nature involving a minor victim, no additional details regarding the victim or specific circumstances will be released at this time to protect privacy in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
Gov. Mike Braun Takes Action to Protect Hoosier Kids Online
USDA Designates Local Indiana Counties as Natural Disaster Areas
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to increase patrols to target distracted driving and speeding
