Former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel has pleaded guilty to 27 charges, including theft, official misconduct, tax evasion, and money laundering. The charges stem from allegations that Noel misappropriated millions of dollars in public funds for personal use, including travel, gifts, automobiles, and other expenses.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
On Monday, Noel, 53, admitted to the charges as part of a plea agreement that requires him to pay over $3 million in restitution and serve 15 years in prison. The plea deal also includes the dismissal of four counts of ghost employment, which accused Noel of using county employees to perform personal chores at his property.
Noel had initially been scheduled to face a jury trial on November 6. However, Special Judge Larry Medlock indicated that while he is not opposed to the plea agreement, he would reserve his final decision until after hearing from victims of Noel’s crimes.
“I want to hear from taxpayers that have been aggrieved by the actions of this individual,” Judge Medlock stated.
Charges and Allegations
Noel’s charges primarily relate to his tenure as president and CEO of the Utica Township Volunteer Firefighters Association, also known as New Chapel Fire/EMS. Under his leadership, the association secured multiple public contracts for fire and EMS services in Clark and Floyd counties. However, Noel and his family are accused of using the association’s funds for personal expenditures, including classic cars, college tuition, and even an aircraft.
The Indiana State Police conducted numerous searches that uncovered questionable payments and evidence of Noel treating the association’s funds as a “personal piggy bank,” as described by Judge Medlock in June.
Noel, who served two consecutive terms as Clark County’s Republican sheriff until 2022, is currently being held on a $1.5 million bond at the Scott County Jail. Attempts to reach his attorney for comment were not immediately successful.
Restitution and Legal Consequences
Under the plea agreement, Noel is required to pay substantial restitution, including over $2.87 million to the Utica Township Volunteer Firefighters Association. More than $61,000 to the Clark County Sheriff’s Department. Over $173,000 to the Indiana Department of Revenue, jointly with his wife, Misty Noel. More than $35,000 to the Indiana State Police to cover the costs associated with storing evidence.
In addition to restitution, Noel will be fined, with the amount to be determined by the court.
Family Involvement and Upcoming Trials
Noel’s wife, Misty Noel, and daughter, Kasey Noel, are also facing charges of theft and tax evasion in connection with the misuse of funds. Both have pleaded not guilty, and their jury trials are scheduled for October 28.
