The Lead Off
- An Indianapolis man who reportedly worked as a hospital chaplain and Department of Child Services contractor is facing felony child sex crime charges in Indiana and Illinois.
- Authorities say the investigation began after a tip from Illinois law enforcement linking him to alleged online solicitation of a minor.
- The suspect is being held in the Marion County Jail with additional charges pending in Illinois court.
INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) An Indianapolis man who reportedly worked as a hospital chaplain and contracted with child services agencies is facing felony child sex crime charges in both Indiana and Illinois, according to court records and law enforcement officials.
Jose Briseno, 60, is currently being held in the Marion County Jail on charges including child exploitation, possession of child sex abuse material, and internet child solicitation according to Fox 59.
He also faces a separate internet child solicitation charge in Tazewell County, Illinois, according to court filings.
Multi-state investigation began with out-of-state tip
According to investigators, Indianapolis police began their investigation on June 3 after receiving a tip from Illinois authorities.
The tip indicated that a man living in Indianapolis, previously connected to Illinois child welfare services, may have been involved in child sex crimes.
Authorities say the investigation led them to Briseno, who had previously worked as a contractor transporting children for visitation services through child welfare programs.
Allegations involve online communication with minor
Court documents allege Briseno used social media to contact a 15-year-old girl under a false identity.
Investigators say he used the username “tanman1966,” referencing his birth year, and allegedly posed as a younger individual named “Pablo.”
Authorities allege he convinced the victim to send explicit images and later threatened to distribute the material if she did not comply with further demands.
Court records further allege that Briseno sent explicit material during the communications.
Investigation linked to Indianapolis residence
Officials say investigators traced digital activity to a residence near 86th Street and Ditch Road in Indianapolis, later identifying an IP address connected to a home on Kings Cove Court.
Briseno was later brought in for questioning by investigators.
During interviews, court documents state he told police he worked as a hospital chaplain and had contracted work with the Indiana Department of Child Services.
Indiana Department of Child Services officials confirmed he was a contractor and not a direct employee of the agency.
Employment history under review
Court records indicate Briseno previously worked with multiple religious organizations in Illinois, including First Christian Church and West Union Christian Church.
Investigators also reviewed employment records indicating work in hospice care, including a position at a Terre Haute facility.
Law enforcement continues to examine his past professional roles as part of the broader investigation.
Arrest, charges, and court proceedings
Briseno was booked into the Marion County Adult Detention Center on June 9. Online records show he is being held on a $5,000 cash bond.
He was formally charged on June 12 with possession of child sex abuse material as a Level 6 felony in Indiana.
An initial hearing has already been held in Marion Superior Court, and a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for July 27.
Additional proceedings are expected in Illinois as that case moves forward.
Next steps
The case remains under investigation in both Indiana and Illinois. Prosecutors in each jurisdiction are expected to continue reviewing digital evidence and employment history as court proceedings advance.
