LONDON, KY - Laurel County Sheriff John Root is reporting that: Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Brent France along with CSO Brian France arrested Joseph M. Johnson age 19 of London on Saturday night March 20, 2021 at approximately 8:04 PM.
The arrest occurred on Hal Rogers Parkway approximately 2 miles east of London following a traffic stop conducted on a black Kia Rio stopped 23 mph over the speed limit.
During the traffic stop it was learned that the driver was driving on a DUI suspended license.
In addition, it was learned there was an outstanding Laurel County warrant of arrest.
Joseph Johnson was charged with:
- Speeding 23 mph over the speed limit
- Driving on DUI suspended license – first offense
- Failure to wear seatbelts
- Numerous other violations
In addition, this individual was charged on a Laurel District Court warrant of arrest obtained by Laurel Sheriff's Sgt. Gary Mehler regarding an investigation he conducted charging:
- Rape – first-degree
- Custodial interference – felony
- Endangering the welfare of a minor
These charges were the result of Sgt. Mehler's investigation into an alleged sexual assault which occurred on the night of April 11, 2020 involving a 15-year-old female juvenile who was taken from her residence without the guardian's approval.
Following the alleged sexual assault, this individual left the 15-year-old female in 30° temperatures late at night in the middle of the woods alone off a trail off White Oak Road.
Joseph M. Johnson was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Photo of accused attached is courtesy of the Laurel County Correctional Center.
