On July 1, 2025, the State of Indiana filed an Affidavit for Probable Cause in Decatur County Superior Court, charging Christian Rust with the following:
- Count 1: Theft, a Level 6 Felony
- Count 2: Official Misconduct, a Level 6 Felony
- Count 3: Official Misconduct, a Level 6 Felony
- Count 4: Official Misconduct, a Level 6 Felony
Superior Court Judge Matthew Bailey found probable cause and issued a warrant on the same day. On July 2, 2025, Christian Rust reported to the Decatur County Detention Center in response to the warrant. An initial hearing was held that day at 2:00 p.m.
Rust appeared via teleconference from the detention center, represented by his attorney Tyler Brant, who also appeared remotely. Special Prosecutor Richard Culver, Henry County Prosecutor, participated by teleconference as well.
Judge Bailey advised Rust of his rights, which Rust confirmed he understood. Upon hearing the charges, Christian’s attorney Mr. Brant entered a plea of not guilty on Rust’s behalf.
Given Rust’s lack of prior criminal history and that he did not yet have the results of a risk assessment, Judge Bailey stated he did not consider Rust a flight risk and ordered his release on his own recognizance. Both the State and defense counsel agreed with the decision.
Judge Bailey scheduled a Pre-Trial Conference for September 15, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., and set the Jury Trial for November 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.
The probable cause that was filed in the Decatur County Superior Court is below:
WTRE will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as they become available. We remind our readers that the charges are allegations, and all individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
