Knox County Grand Jury Indicts Corbin Man on Felony Rape and Sexual Abuse Charges

A Knox County grand jury has indicted 44-year-old Preston Messer for first-degree rape and sexual abuse of a minor. Read about the charges and investigation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 12, 2026, 7:22 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from LEX 18

Grand Jury Returns True Bill on Cold Case Allegations

Legal proceedings against a Corbin resident have intensified following a Knox County grand jury's decision to return a true bill on February 27. The indictment stems from a series of recently reported incidents that allegedly took place in 2020. The Knox County Sheriff’s Department initiated an investigation into the claims, which culminated in the formal charges and the subsequent service of an indictment warrant on March 4.

Severity of Charges and Felony Status

The charges brought against Preston Messer are among the most serious in the Kentucky penal code. According to law enforcement records, Messer faces one count of first-degree rape and one count of first-degree sexual abuse of a minor under the age of 12. Additionally, the grand jury included a charge of persistent felony offender, a designation that can significantly enhance potential sentencing if a conviction is reached, based on the defendant's prior criminal history.

Detention and Bond Conditions

Following the service of the warrant, Messer was transported to the Knox County Detention Center. Judicial officials have set a $50,000 cash bond for his release. As of the current reporting period, Messer remains in custody. The high bond amount reflects the severity of the allegations and the protected status of the victim involved in the case.