Vigo Co. Sheriff’s Office searching for man accused of knowingly spreading HIV

VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) – The Vigo County Sheriff’s Office said they are actively searching for a local man accused of knowingly spreading HIV for more than a decade.

In August, a judge ordered the release of 32-year-old Isiah Benford of Terre Haute and delayed his trial until February because some documents and witnesses were not shared with the defense sooner.

Benford awaits trial on 27 criminal counts including aggravated battery and failure to warn his partners of his HIV-positive status.

Vigo Superior Court Judge Michael Lewis said he’s not happy with prosecutors for limiting the defense’s ability to prepare its case.

A warrant has been issued for his arrest on two counts of intimidation. Officials believe Benford could be out of town or even out of state.

If you see him you’re asked to immediately call Crime Stoppers at (812) 238-STOP.