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60-year-old Knox man arrested on charges of rape, sexual misconduct with a minor

Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 7:54 AM

By Staff report

A 60-year-old Knox man was arrested on Monday and is now facing multiple felony charges that include rape and sexual misconduct. 

According to the Starke County Sheriff's Office, Richard Gast, 60, of Knox, was arrested on Monday, October 19, on outstanding warrants.

Prior to the arrest, Starke County Sheriff’s Detectives assigned to the Starke County Major Crimes Unit were assigned a case involving the allegations of sexual abuse of a minor. Investigators worked with the Indiana Department of Child Services throughout the investigation.

At the completion of the investigation, a report was forwarded to the Starke County Prosecutors Office, where after review formal charges were filed.

Prosecutors formally charged Gast with two counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, one being a Level 4 Felony and the other a Level 5 Felony; and two counts of rape when victim has verbally or otherwise refused, both Level 3 Felonies. 

Gast is currently being held at the Starke County Justice Center on a $250,000 cash bond.

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