Joshua Eric Barbarossa, 46, of Burns Harbor, has been charged in Porter County following an investigation into allegations of child molestation and sexual abuse spanning several years.
According to court documents, investigators with the Burns Harbor Police Department conducted an investigation into allegations involving incidents alleged to have occurred between approximately 2014 and 2020 in Burns Harbor and Valparaiso.
The probable cause affidavit states the alleged victim reported the abuse began between the ages of 5 and 7 and continued until approximately age 15. Court documents state the alleged victim reported repeated inappropriate touching and sexual conduct occurring over multiple years while living in Porter County.
According to investigators, detectives later conducted follow-up interviews and reviewed additional forensic interview materials during the investigation.
Charges filed May 12, 2026:
- Attempted Rape — Level 3 Felony
- Rape — Level 3 Felony
- Child Molesting Fondling Or Touching With Child Under 14 — Level 4 Felony
- Child Molesting — Class C Felony
- Sexual Misconduct With A Minor — Level 5 Felony
