Three people face multiple charges in a child molesting investigation conducted by local, state, and federal authorities.

According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began in May 2025 after deputies received an anonymous tip alleging that 24-year-old Patrick Cox of Washington and 18-year-old Neveah Brown of Loogootee had molested a child.

Detectives say Cox later confessed to a number of crimes during interviews. Search warrants for cell phones belonging to both suspects uncovered images of suspected child pornography and evidence of additional victims and another suspect.

Further investigation led to the arrest of 28-year-old Marie Austin of Sullivan. Authorities say federal charges were filed after state investigators forwarded findings to the FBI and U.S. Marshals transported Cox and Austin to federal custody in October.

Cox faces more than a dozen state charges — including child molesting, rape, and child exploitation — along with multiple federal counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Brown and Austin also face state and federal charges connected to the case.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office says more arrests and charges could follow as the investigation continues with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the FBI.