New Albany man faces multiple felony charges in child exploitation case

A New Albany man has been charged in Clark County with multiple felony offenses following an extensive investigation into allegations involving a juvenile victim.

Jonathan Lee Rodewig Jr., 23, faces a range of charges including six counts of rape (Level 3 Felony), promotion of child sexual trafficking (Level 3 Felony), child exploitation (Level 4 Felony), possession of child sexual abuse material (Level 5 and Level 6 Felonies), contributing to the delinquency of a minor (Class A Misdemeanor), possession of marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor), and false informing (Class B Misdemeanor).

The investigation began in late August 2025 after Charlestown police responded to a report of a missing juvenile. The youth was later located arriving at the Charlestown Police Department in a vehicle driven by Rodewig. Officers detected the odor of marijuana and recovered evidence from the vehicle. Rodewig was initially taken into custody on charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor and possession of marijuana.

Further investigation and multiple search warrants led detectives to uncover evidence of sexually explicit communications and videos involving the juvenile victim. Based on the findings, Detective Sergeant Trey A. Crace submitted a probably cause affidavit to the Clark County Prosecutor's Office, leading to the additional felony charges.

An arrest warrant was issued for Rodewig, who is currently in custody in another jurisdiction on unrelated but similar charges.

In compliance with Indiana law and to protect the privacy of the victim, authorities said no identifying information regarding the juvenile will be released. Law enforcement will not provide further details until judicial proceedings are complete.

“Protecting the most vulnerable members of our community is at the core of our mission,” said Detective Sergeant Crace. “This case demonstrates the ongoing dangers posed by online exploitation and the importance of swift reporting and cooperation between families, law enforcement, and our partner agencies.”

Charlestown police believe Rodewig may have victimized others who have not yet come forward. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim is urged to contact local law enforcement immediately.

The department also reminds parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding their children's online activity and to report any suspected exploitation as soon as possible.