An Indiana sheriff and his wife, who served as a jail matron, have been taken into custody following allegations of a substantial disability fraud scheme. The couple, Sheriff Richard Kelly and Ashley Kelly, were booked into Marion County Jail on Friday night after investigators uncovered that Ashley had received over $200,000 in disability checks from the Indiana State Police Pension Trust over six years, despite medical assessments deeming her fully capable of work.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
Court records reveal that Ashley Kelly, a former Indiana State Trooper, began receiving full disability benefits in 2015 after reporting a neck injury from slipping on ice while handling items in her patrol car. However, doctors later stated that her extremities were fully functional, and she was employable, able to lift 30 pounds, drive for 30 minutes without breaks, and sit, stand, or walk without limitations. From 2021 to 2026, she collected a total of $205,398.77 in payments, which authorities now claim were obtained under false pretences.
Social Media Evidence Contradicts Claims
Investigators found compelling evidence on Ashley Kelly's social media profiles that contradicted her disability assertions. Photos and videos showed her engaging in various physical activities, including picking up her children, riding horses, changing a tire, and parasailing. Additional footage of her exercising further undermined her claims of incapacity. A probable cause affidavit obtained by the Indiana Star stated, "Even if Ashley Kelly's original 2014 injury claim was legitimate, the evidence overwhelmingly shows that she continued to accept disability benefits while knowingly misrepresenting her physical condition."
Political Fallout and Calls for Resignation
The case has sparked significant political backlash in Clinton County. Jordan Brewer, President of the Clinton County Commissioners, emphasized in a statement, "These new charges make it clear that public trust has been broken. For the good of the sheriff's office and the people of Clinton County, Sheriff Kelly and Matron Kelly should resign immediately." Commissioner Kevin Myers added that the incident strained government resources and interfered with serving residents, stating, "This is not about politics. It is about accountability. The only path forward is for both Richard and Ashley Kelly to step down."
Legal Proceedings and Previous Issues
The couple was released on a $1,000 cash bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday. This is not their first legal entanglement; in 2022, they were ordered to pay $329,360.47 for improper use of jail commissary funds and audit costs, with a court appearance set for May on misconduct and conflict of interest accusations. Both have pleaded not guilty to those charges, with Richard previously dismissing them as "nothing more than a political farce."
Adding to the controversy, Ashley Kelly is currently campaigning to replace her husband as sheriff, with Richard described as "a vital partner" in her announcement. The investigation has also prompted scrutiny into their business dealings, where Ashley held a 51% ownership interest in a jail commissary management venture, with Richard owning 49%.
