US Marshals search for former Madison County councilman who faces trial on child molestation charges
The US Marshals Service says it is looking for a former Madison County councilman who failed to show up for his fall 2023 trial on child molestation charges. IPR’s Stephanie Wiechmann reports.
Steven Sumner was arrested in December 2020. At the time, the Republican was serving his second term on the Madison County Council, owned a local small business, and was listed as the pastor of Lighthouse Baptist Church.
He’s currently facing 18 charges, including rape, child seduction, sexual misconduct with a minor, and attempted sexual battery.
Sumner was expected to show up in a Madison County court in July 2023, but did not. At that time, a warrant was issued for his arrest. Now, the US Marshals have announced it is leading the search, offering a $25,000 reward for his capture.
The service says Sumner should be considered armed and dangerous, is a flight risk, and is at risk of suicide. It says he has access to a “support network” that could give him money, travel, and fake IDs.
The Indiana State Police investigation into Sumner found a girl younger than 16 that told officers Sumner gave her alcohol, performed sexual acts on her, and tried to get her to reciprocate. An investigation into Sumner’s digital devices also found more than 100 images of potential child pornography.
After his late 2020 arrest, Sumner initially refused to resign from the Madison County Council. State law allows those awaiting trials on felony charges to continue serving. It’s only convicted felons that are not eligible to serve for office.
In May 2021, Sumner resigned, saying a resignation letter that he was “currently unable to provide my constituents with the representation they deserve.” Minutes from Madison County Council meetings show Sumner has missed four consecutive council meetings.
Along with Sumner, the US Marshals are looking for what the agency calls a “female associate” named Sharon Bailey Wood Barker.
For tips on the whereabouts of Steven Sumner, the US Marshals have set up a tip line at 317-268-8484.
Stephanie Wiechmann is our Managing Editor and “All Things Considered” Host. Contact her at [email protected].
