Jeffrey D. Ellis, 33, of the Plainfield area, has been charged with two counts of rape, a felony of the first degree, in connection with an ongoing child abuse investigation. 

Coshocton, Ohio - Authorities say a man from the Plainfield area has been charged with two counts of rape in connection with an ongoing child abuse investigation. 

On August 18, the Coshocton County Sheriff’s office was notified of an alleged child abuse incident and began an investigation. Detectives and Children's Services personnel were called in to assist with the investigation and ensure the safety of any potential victims.

On August 21, Detectives from the Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant of a residence in the 100 block of Commercial Avenue in Plainfield. On the same day, 33-year-old Jeffrey Ellis was taken into custody and formally charged with two counts of rape, a felony of the first degree.

Lt. Dean Hettinger says the charges are related to the child abuse investigation and involve two victims.

Ellis is being held at the Coshocton County Jail on a $750,000 bond. A preliminary hearing has been set for August 29 at 1 p.m. in Coshocton Municipal Court. 

Lt. Hettinger says the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information that may be helpful to investigators is urged to contact Detective Nancy Wilt at the Coshocton County Sheriff's Department by calling 740-622-2411.