Two accused of child solicitation in Jennings County operation

Two men were arrested over the weekend in Jennings County, accused of traveling to the community intending to have sexual relations with what they believed to be 13-year-old children.

According to Jennings County Sheriff’s Department, deputies along with North Vernon police officers made the arrests in a sting operation Saturday.

52-year-old James Warner of Columbus, was arrested when he arrived at a pre-determined meeting location to have sexual relations with what he believed to be a 13 year old girl. Warner was arrested on felony charges of child solicitation and dissemination of harmful material to a minor.

Later Saturday evening, 68-year-old Stephen Stonecipher was also arrested when he arrived at a location to have sexual relations with what he thought was a 13 year old boy. He is facing a felony charge of child solicitation.

Both were arrested without incident. Authorities say that the investigation is ongoing and more charges are possible.