The audio recording you are about to hear is the third of five recordings from the Clinton County Sheriff’s Merit Board hearing on the evening of Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

The Merit Board met in public to hear charges brought by Sheriff Richard Kelly on Deputy Melissa Trump and to hear Deputy Trump’s defense.

Sheriff Kelly recommended Deputy Trump be terminated following allegations of underage drinking at her residence and dishonesty during the ensuing internal investigation.

Deputy Trump is alleged to have violated Merit Board Rules and Regulations and alleged to have violated policies contained within the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Policy Manual.

This third recording begins with:

(00:00) Third session begins

Prior to Mr. Donovan Denham taking the stand, the recording captures the moment Deputy Trump learns her son - Blake Trump had been arrested by the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office on an outstanding warrant from Marion County Indiana. Blake Trump was in attendance to testify on behalf of his mother if needed. Blake Trump was released as a witness prior to testifying and was subsequently arrested.

(01:18) Attorney Adam Brower, representing Deputy Trump, calls Mr. Donovan Denham, the boyfriend of Deputy Trump, as a witness.

(11:45) Attorney Tonya Bond, representing Sheriff Kelly, begins cross-examination.

(15:52) Attorney Brower re-direct of Mr. Denham.

Note: The audio has been edited to enhance the audio level. No statements were edited.

Each audio session ends when a break is called and the next audio session begins when called to order.

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