BG man wanted on rape, sodomy charges captured after 18 years in Florida

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – A Bowling Green fugitive that has evaded law enforcement for nearly 18 years has been captured in Florida on charges that include rape and sodomy.

According to Kentucky State Police public affairs officer trooper Katan Parker, 49-year-old Donnie A. Phelps of Bowling Green has been arrested in Pinellas County, Florida on charges of first-degree rape, victim under 12, first-degree sodomy, victim under 12, and bail jumping.

Previously, Phelps appeared on News 40’s Wanted Wednesday in December 2024 for the same charges.

Court documents state these charges originate out of Bowling Green, with a warrant of arrest on indictment on the rape and sodomy charges being ordered in 2010.

News 40 will provide additional details as they become available.