Former Trimble County sheriff arrested for alleged sexual abuse while on duty

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A former Trimble County, Kentucky sheriff was arrested for alleged sexual abuse of a woman in the Trimble County Attorney's Office while on duty.

According to court records, former Trimble County Sheriff Charles Kelton, 53, turned himself into the Oldham County jail early Saturday morning, Nov. 1, after an arrest warrant was served.

On Feb. 21, 2025 while on duty and in his sheriff's uniform, Kelton admitted to grabbing a woman's hips and pulling her against him after she "physically and verbally" rejected him while in her office at the Trimble County Attorney's Office, his arrest warrant said.

Kelton is charged with first degree sexual abuse, which is a felony, and official misconduct. Kelton was released from jail Saturday on a $5000 surety bond, is not allowed contact with the alleged victim, and was placed on home incarceration.

His is due in Trimble County District Court on Thursday, Nov. 6.

Kelton retired as Trimble County Sheriff on July 31, 2025.

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