Terre Haute man arrested on child molesting, exploitation charges

Steven E. Ray, 64, faces multiple counts in Hendricks County

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

The Terre Haute Police Department has arrested a 64-year-old man named Steven E. Ray on charges of child molesting and child exploitation. Ray is currently facing three counts of Level 1 child molesting and one count of child exploitation in Hendricks County, Indiana.

Why it matters

Crimes involving the exploitation and abuse of children are deeply disturbing and have a profound impact on victims, their families, and the broader community. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to identify and apprehend those accused of such heinous acts.

The details

According to the Terre Haute Police Department, the charges against Steven E. Ray stem from an investigation into allegations of child molesting and exploitation. Ray was taken into custody by THPD and is now facing the aforementioned charges in Hendricks County.

  • The arrest occurred on February 21, 2026.

The players

Steven E. Ray

A 64-year-old man arrested by the Terre Haute Police Department and charged with three counts of Level 1 child molesting and one count of child exploitation in Hendricks County, Indiana.

Terre Haute Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Steven E. Ray and is assisting with the investigation into the charges of child molesting and exploitation.

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The takeaway

This arrest underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement, community members, and child welfare organizations to protect the most vulnerable members of society and ensure that those accused of such crimes are held accountable.