Matt Bevin’s Arrest and Legal Issues

Matt Bevin, former governor of Kentucky, was arrested on Thursday for defying court orders related to a family court and child support dispute. Local media reported that Bevin, a Republican and former ally of President Donald Trump, was taken into custody by the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. He was later booked into Louisville Metro Corrections.

The arrest resulted from a bench warrant issued by Jefferson County Family Court Judge Angela Johnson. The warrant accused Bevin of civil contempt. Issued in June, it ordered him to serve 60 days in jail and pay a $500 fine. Attempts to reach Bevin’s lawyer for comment were made by Newsweek on Friday.

Arrest on a Movie Set

The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office received a tip through a 911 call and subsequently apprehended Bevin in Paris, Kentucky. He was found working as an extra on the set of the film ‘The Greatest Christmas Gift’.

Jessica Mohr, the owner of the property where filming took place, described how deputies identified Bevin. “The sheriff showed up looking for Bevin, and someone recognized him from a picture,” Mohr explained. “He was inside speaking to the lead actor when he was arrested.”

Complex Family Dispute

The ongoing legal battle involves Bevin’s ex-wife, Glenna Bevin, and their adopted son, Jonah. The court required both parents to submit financial documents, including tax returns and bank statements, to address child support and financial arrangements.

While Glenna complied, Judge Johnson ruled that Matt Bevin persistently failed to provide the necessary documentation.

Jonah Bevin, one of four children adopted from Ethiopia in 2012, alleged that his adoptive parents abandoned him at a Jamaican youth facility at age 17. He has since sought support to rebuild his life. Jonah expressed sadness over his father’s arrest, noting that adoption is meant to be permanent.

His attorneys emphasized that the arrest was not a victory for Jonah. They stated that Jonah sought only basic financial support and hope the arrest leads to accountability.

Judge’s Criticism

The legal dispute has been ongoing for months. Bevin was previously held in contempt in May for failing to appear in court, avoiding jail by paying a $250 fine.

In the past, he claimed a boulder accident in Maine prevented his court appearance. The judge instructed him to submit financial records by June 5. Bevin’s request for more time was denied, leading to his arrest.

Judge Johnson criticized Bevin for his lack of cooperation. “You have done nothing to show you’re acting in good faith,” she stated. “I will not reward this with a reduced sentence.” The focus now shifts to whether Bevin will supply the requested records and potentially secure release or remain jailed.

Trump and Bevin’s Political Ties

During Bevin’s term as governor, he was a prominent conservative aligned with Trump. The former president heavily supported Bevin’s 2019 reelection, granting him a “Complete and Total Endorsement” and held a rally in Lexington. Despite his efforts, Bevin lost to Democrat Andy Beshear by about 5,000 votes.

The Associated Press noted Bevin as a “close ally” of Trump. Newsweek reached out to the White House for comments on the recent developments.