Sheriff booked on multiple charges

On Monday afternoon, many media outlets began reporting that Jennings County Sheriff William Freeman had an arrest warrant served had been served on Freeman after he was charged with two counts of theft along with charges of obstruction of justice, official misconduct and perjury.

These charges stem from an investigation that started in November 2025 when another sheriff candidate in Jennings County reported that he had several campaign signs stolen from several areas.

A GPS tracker was installed on one of his signs and after the sign was stolen, the GPS tracker pinged location was on Freeman’s property. State Troopers found the sign along with other signs including once for a local judge candidate.

The case was presented to a grand jury who returned an indictment against Sheriff Freeman.

Freeman turned himself into the Ripley County jail where his case will eventually be heard by Superior Judge Jeff Sharp and prosecuted by special prosecutor Lynn Deddens, Dearborn County Prosecuting Attorney. Freeman was released on his own recognizance soon after turning himself in.

The Indiana Sheriff’s Association stated in a news release regarding Sheriff Freeman, “We are disappointed by Sheriff Freeman’s actions and respect the jury’s decision.”

“The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association remains committed to supporting sheriffs through training, professional development, and an emphasis on ethics, accountability, and public trust”

“Every day, sheriffs across Indiana serve their communities with integrity, and we will continue promoting the highest professional standards in the profession.”

Editor’s Note: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.