Vigo County, IN – Deputies responded to a courthouse safety scare this week after a man allegedly appeared multiple times in military fatigues, body armor, and a helmet while using vulgar language toward officials, according to the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident began January 29 when deputies identified the individual as Jason Childress, 45, of Vigo County. Sheriff Derek Fell said Childress had been seen at the courthouse on consecutive days wearing tactical-style gear, which raised alarm among staff.
“While wearing clothing with vulgar language, body armor, or military fatigues are not in and of itself a crime, these factors — along with his behavior — caused concerns for courthouse safety,” Fell said in a statement. Deputies were dispatched to the area to locate the man.
Before deputies could make contact, Childress reportedly left the area in a vehicle. A traffic stop by West Terre Haute Police Department led to his detention for a traffic infraction. Following further investigation, he was arrested and booked into the Vigo County Jail.
Childress now faces charges of:
- Felony intimidation
- Possession of body armor (while committing a felony)
- Trespassing
Authorities say no one was injured during the incident.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
