Former House Candidate From Powell, Wyoming Facing Child Abuse And Sex Crimes Charges
In December 2025, David Kellett, a 56-year-old resident of Powell, Wyoming, and former candidate for the Wyoming House of Representatives, was charged with multiple counts of child abuse and sexual assault. These charges include one count of felony child abuse, one count of aggravated child abuse, and nine counts of second-degree sexual abuse of a minor. If convicted on all counts, Kellett faces a potential sentence of up to 215 years in prison and fines totaling $110,000.
Kellett’s political career includes two unsuccessful bids for the Wyoming House District 25 seat in 2010 and 2012. In both Republican primary elections, he was defeated by Dave Bonner and Dave Blevins, respectively. During his campaigns, Kellett was known for his advocacy of the Health Care Freedom Act, a resolution aimed at resisting federal healthcare mandates by adding a health care autonomy right to the Wyoming Constitution. (Powell Tribune) Although the resolution passed, it was later utilized to uphold abortion access in the state. (CNBC)
What Are the Specific Allegations Against Kellett?
According to court documents, the allegations against Kellett involve both physical and sexual abuse of at least one minor. The affidavit, signed by Powell Police Department Investigator Chris Wallace, details that a juvenile reported frequent sexual abuse, including being compelled to watch pornography and subjected to other grooming behaviors. The minor also described instances of physical abuse, such as being punched, having her hair pulled, and being pushed to the ground. Photographic evidence of a black eye was reportedly obtained during the investigation.
What Legal Actions Have Been Taken?
On December 23, 2025, Park County Deputy Attorney Ericka Smith filed an amended complaint in Powell Circuit Court, leading to the transfer of Kellett’s case to the felony-level Park County District Court. Circuit Court Judge Joey Darrah found probable cause for the prosecution to proceed and imposed a $200,000 cash-only bond. As of late December 2025, Kellett remained in custody at the Park County Detention Center.
How Does This Case Compare to Similar Incidents Involving Politicians?
Kellett’s case is not isolated; several politicians have faced similar allegations in recent years. For instance, in 2021, Aaron von Ehlinger, a former Idaho state representative, was convicted of raping a legislative intern and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Similarly, in 2021, Rick Roeber, a Missouri state representative, was expelled from the House following credible allegations of sexual and physical abuse of his children. These cases underscore a troubling pattern of abuse allegations involving individuals in positions of political power. (en.wikipedia.org)
What Are the Broader Implications of This Case?
The charges against David Kellett highlight the critical importance of holding public figures accountable for their actions, especially when they involve vulnerable individuals. Such cases can erode public trust in political institutions and emphasize the need for rigorous vetting processes for candidates seeking public office. They also serve as a stark reminder of the necessity for robust support systems for victims of abuse and the importance of timely reporting and investigation of such allegations.
As the legal proceedings against David Kellett continue, the community of Powell and the broader public will be closely monitoring the case’s developments, seeking justice for the alleged victims and accountability for those in positions of power.
