KNOX CO. – Knox County Coroner Karen Donovan, who was arrested following the discovery of meth at her residence, appeared in Knox Superior Court for a change of plea hearing.
On Tuesday, Donovan pleaded guilty to a Level 6 Felony of possession of meth in a negotiated plea deal. A charge of possession of a narcotic drug was dropped.
Knox Superior Court 2 Judge Brian Johnson sentenced Donovan to 18 months and suspended her sentence to supervised probation. Donovan was ordered to cover court costs and complete 80 hours of community service.
Prosecutor Dirk Carnahan stated that this agreement and sentence align with the standard for first-time meth possession offenders.
At the time of Donovan’s arrest, elected county officials and the local Republican Party initiated proceedings to remove her from office, alleging negligence in her duties and attendance. However, under state law, Donovan’s recent felony plea now disqualifies her from holding office.
Indiana State Police arrested Donovan, of Vincennes, on charges of official misconduct, possession of meth, and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.
Indiana State Police Detectives initiated an investigation in April of 2022 after receiving information about misconduct.
During a search of Donavon’s residence in Vincennes detectives located meth and fentanyl.
Donovan was arrested and taken to the Knox County Jail where she later posted bond and was released.
