A 54-year-old Richmond man is behind bars after detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging him with multiple sex offenses involving a minor, according to Richmond Police. Officers say William L. “Billy” Johnson was taken into custody in the 300 block of North 21st Street and is being held pending further court proceedings. Authorities say the alleged charges include child molesting and other sexual misconduct counts.
Police Release and Investigation
According to a press release from the Richmond Police Department, detectives in the department’s Investigative Services Division arrested Johnson after what they describe as an extensive probe led by detectives Paul Hutchison and Tom LeGear. The release lists charges including two counts of Level 1 felony child molesting, Level 2 felony sexual misconduct with a minor (fondling), and multiple Level 4 felony counts of incest and sexual misconduct.
The department notes that the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office assisted in securing the arrest warrant. In the release, Chief Kyle Weatherly is quoted as saying the case “reflects the relentless work of investigators and their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of the community.”
Charges and Legal Context
Police say Johnson, 54, faces several felony counts and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. Under Indiana law, a Level 1 felony generally carries a statutory sentencing range of roughly 20 to 40 years in prison, with advisory terms set by statute, while Level 2 and Level 4 felonies carry lower sentencing bands, according to Justia. Any applicable enhancements and advisory terms would be applied later in the process as prosecutors review the evidence.
What’s Next
According to authorities, Johnson remains in custody pending formal filings and court appearances handled by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. The case is expected to move to arraignment and preliminary hearings as prosecutors review the investigation and determine final charges. Officials have not released further details about any alleged victims or set a public court date.
