Was arrested last summer

(NORTH VERNON, Ind.) – A 70-year-old man was found guilty of child molestation after a trial in Jennings County. 

Prosecutors say Paul Collett molested a juvenile female family member over the course of 6 years. 

Jennings County Prosecutor Brian Belding credited the victim for their courage during the trial. 

“Her bravery in coming forward and sharing her story with authorities from the Jennings County School Corporation, the Department of Child Services, the Children’s Advocacy Center, and investigators from the Jennings County Sheriff’s Office was instrumental in achieving justice,” Belding said.

“We hope her inspiring example will encourage other victims of sexual abuse to come forward and seek the support they deserve,” he added. 

The Jennings County Sheriff’s Department arrested Collett last summer and said this is an example of their commitment to protecting children. 

“This conviction is the result of an excellent investigation, coupled with open and effective collaboration with our partner agencies. Together, we have removed another child predator from our streets, making Jennings County a safer place for our children,” Chief Deputy Cody Low said. 

A sentencing hearing date has not been set.