Multi-Agency Investigation Leads To Arrest In Child Exploitation Case Linked To Hendricks County

 A coordinated investigation involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies has resulted in the arrest of a 64-year-old man accused in a serious child exploitation case connected to Hendricks County.

Authorities say the investigation began on February 13, 2026, after investigators received information that child sexual abuse material had allegedly been produced. Officials also learned the child depicted in the material was believed to be living with the suspect in Vigo County, prompting an urgent response.

Detectives from the Terre Haute Police Department, working alongside the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI, moved quickly to obtain a search warrant. That warrant was executed later the same day at the suspect’s residence with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies from across the region.

Following the search, Steven E. Ray, 64, was taken into custody. Prosecutors in Hendricks County have filed multiple felony charges against him, including three counts of Level 1 Child Molesting, one count of Level 4 Child Molesting, and six counts of Level 4 Child Exploitation.

Officials say the investigation involved a large collaborative effort between agencies from several counties, as well as federal partners, all working to ensure the safety of the child involved and to gather evidence in the case.

Law enforcement leaders emphasized that protecting children and pursuing offenders who exploit minors remains a top priority, and they credited the multi-agency cooperation for the swift action in this case.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional updates may be released as the case proceeds through the court system.