***Q-100 News***
Headlines

Wednesday, October 9th, 2024

Spring Mill State Park has announced the winners of their annual campsite decorating contest. Campers at Spring Mill State Park decked out the park's campgrounds near Mitchell this weekend for the park's annual campsite decorating contest. Contest winners include local residents, as well as campers from across Indiana.

Best in Campground 

1 st Place                       Teressa Meadows                   Bedford, IN
2 nd Place                      Amy Watson                           Bedford, IN                                               

Scariest Site  

1 st Place                       Travis Gratzer                         Mitchell, IN
2 nd Place                      Shelby Fortner                        Oolitic, IN          

Autumn Harvest

1 st Place                       Rachell Zollman                     Bedford, IN
2 nd Place                      Cindy Stinson                         Springville, IN     

Judges Choice

1 st Place                      Patricia Morgan                      Orleans, IN          

Most Creative Pumpkin                  

1 st Place                      Alli Fick                                  Springville, IN

Tuesday, October 8th, 2024

A Perry County man was arrested Saturday night after police received a 911 call about a possible intoxicated driver in Orange County. On Saturday night, Indiana State Police received information from Orange County Dispatch about a possible intoxicated driver on State Road 145. The suspected intoxicated driver was said to have small children in the vehicle. A short time later, the vehicle and driver were located at a gas station in French Lick. Police arrived at the scene and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 39 year old Cody Bauer of Tell City. Bauer showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for medical clearance, along with a chemical test. Bauer was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated With a Passenger Less Than 18 Years of Age, Neglect of a Dependent and Driving While Suspended with a Prior. The three small children were picked up by their mother at the scene. Assisting at the scene were the West Baden Police Department.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Department is seeking information about a fatal hit-and-run that occurred over the weekend in Fredericksburg. A 911 call around 7:45 a.m. Sunday reported a man lying off the roadway in the area of 3946 West U.S. 150, Fredericksburg. Detective with the Washington County Sheriff's Department arrived at 8:01 a.m. and found a man who had sustained blunt force trauma, appearing to have been struck by a vehicle. The Washington County Coroner’s Office declared the man dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as 49 year old Shawn Edward Crabtree of Fredericksburg. Police said there were parts from a vehicle and debris from the impact at the scene. A crime scene technician and a reconstructionist from the Indiana State Police examined and collected evidence at the scene. A time of death has not been established, but detectives said the incident occurred sometime after 9:30 p.m. Witnesses saw Crabtree hitchhiking on U.S. 150 in Harrison County around that time. Anyone with information is asked to call the Washington County Sheriff’s Department at 812-883-5999 and request to speak with Detective Brad Naugle. Callers may remain anonymous.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure for State Road 58 in Lawrence County. Beginning on or around Monday, October 14th, crews will begin a road closure on State Road 58 in Lawrence County near Bedford. This closure will occur between GM Drive and H Street. This road closure will allow for the removal of a railroad bridge that crosses State Road 58. This project is expected to last through the beginning of November, depending on the weather. The official detour for this project is State Road 37 to U.S. 50 to State Road 446. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure.

Monday, October 7th, 2024

A Cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led to the arrest of an Orange County man for child molestation and possession of child pornography. Detectives with the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children task force began an investigation in September after receiving a cyber tip. The cyber tip indicated that a specific account was possibly used to transmit child pornography images or video files. Investigators requested a search warrant based on information gathered during the investigation. As a result, on Friday, police executed a search warrant at a Walnut Street address in Paoli. As a result of the investigation and search, Troopers arrested 30 year old David Robertson of Paoli, also known as David Tuell for one count of Child Molestation, and three counts of Possession of Child Pornography. Robertson was arrested and transported to the Orange County Jail without incident.

A Lawrence County man was taken into custody after a traffic stop was initiated for erratic driving in Orange County. Early Saturday morning, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department stopped a vehicle for erratic driving near West Baden. A Trooper with the Indiana State Police responded to the area to assist. Police then spoke to the driver, who was identified as 52 year old Keith Henderson of Williams. Henderson showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Henderson was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail a on charge Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested after a Monday night traffic stop in French Lick. On Monday, around 10:05 p.m., A trooper with the Indiana State Police was patrolling the French Lick area on State Road 56 Near Monon Drive. The trooper spotted and stopped a Cadillac passenger car for an improper license plate display violation. Police then spoke to the driver of the car, who later identified himself as 18 year old Dean Cox of Paoli. During the interaction, the trooper recognized indicators of criminal activity and requested Cox exit the vehicle. While the trooper was doing a check for weapons, Cox became hostile and refused commands. A brief struggle ensued with Cox and he was placed into handcuffs. During a search of Cox, suspected methamphetamine was located. During the interaction with Cox, Cox showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Cox was then transported to the Orange County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Resisting Law Enforcement and Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department also assisted at the scene.

A Tuesday morning collision with a deer in Washington County sent a pregnant woman to hospital. On Tuesday morning, around 6:32 AM, Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff's Department were dispatched to State Rd 56 near the intersection of Possum Hollow Road in Livonia in reference to a single vehicle accident involving a deer. Upon arrival, Deputies observed a 2021 Toyota Corolla in the middle of the roadway on State Rd 56. The driver was identified as 26 year old Heather Meredith of Salem. According to the drivers statement and evidence at the scene, Meredith was west bound on State Rd 56 when a deer came out into her lane from the south side of the roadway. Meredith applied her brakes but was unable to stop and impacted the deer. Meredith stated that she was 32 weeks pregnant and she was transported to Baptist Health Floyd for complaints of pain. Also assisting at the scene were the Washington County EMS and Livonia Fire Department.

One man was sent to the hospital on Tuesday after a two vehicle collision on State Road 135 in Salem. On Tuesday morning, Deputies of the Washington County Sheriff's Department were dispatched to North State Road 135, at the intersection of Water Tower Road in Salem in reference to a motor vehicle crash involving two vehicles. Upon arrival, deputies observed a white 2019 Chevrolet truck and a black 2015 Chevrolet Malibu passenger car off the east side of North State Road 135. The driver of the pickup truck was identified as 55 year old Anthony Alexander of Salem. The driver of the passenger car was identified as 24 year old Tanner Bennett also of Salem. According to the statements of the driver's, and evidence at the scene, Alexander was traveling east on Water Tower Road and Bennett was traveling south on North State Road 135. When Alexander stopped at the stop sign, he then attempted to continue straight through the intersection onto Lewellen Road. Alexander stated that he did not observe the vehicle due to the fog. Bennett stated that he observed the vehicle approaching the stop sign and that the vehicle pulled out onto North State Road 135. Bennett then struck the pickup truck on the driver's side. Alexander refused treatment at the scene and Bennett was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Salem for complaint of ankle pain. The Salem Fire Department, Washington County Ambulance Service assisted at the scene.

Tuesday, October 1st, 2024

After four years of evading authorities, a Dubois County man was apprehended for violating the Sex and Violent Offender Registry. During the week of September 16th, the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office SVOR Coordinator received a tip regarding the whereabouts of 39 year old Nathan Rhodes of Dubois. The U.S. Marshal Service was contacted due to Rhodes’ location at the time. He was later taken into custody by the U.S. Marshal Service in Louisville, Kentucky. Further investigation revealed that Rhodes was also wanted out of Crawford County for a similar offense. His apprehension marks the end of a long pursuit and highlights the collaborative efforts between local law enforcement and federal authorities. Rhodes remains in custody at the Dubois County Jail where he is being held without bond.

The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office and local law enforcement officers had two traffic stops in the past week. On Wednesday September 25th, police conducted a traffic stop in Bedford that resulted in the seizure of multiple small baggies of suspected cocaine. 33 year old Luis Garcia of Bedford was arrested for possession of cocaine or narcotic drug as a result. Then on Saturday police conducted a traffic stop in the Springville are that resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and over 8 grams of cocaine. 26 year old Ethan New of Springville was arrested for possession of meth, unlawful possession of a syringe and possession of a controlled substance as a result of the stop. K9 Roko and officers with the Bedford police department assisted in both stops. These two stops come on the heels of multiple traffic stops, seizures of cocaine and other drugs, and arrests in Lawrence County just over a week earlier.

A man from Seymour has been charged for practicing dentistry without a license in Jackson County. Seymour police officers responded to a call about someone practicing dentistry without a license Saturday. A warrant was then issued at The Village Green mobile home park south of downtown Seymour. Police say they found several dental instruments and medications when they searched the mobile home. Fredy Felipe-Pascual was the man arrested and charged for practicing without a license.

Monday, September 30th, 2024

The Milltown Police Department is getting ready for its annual Boo-Fest in October and is seeking donations for a silent auction that will be held during the event. The auction’s proceeds will purchase Christmas gifts for children in the Milltown area who might not otherwise receive presents during the holiday season. The initiative aims to ensure that local children can experience the joy of Christmas, with all funds raised going directly toward fulfilling their holiday wish lists. Community members and businesses are encouraged to contribute items to the auction to help make the event successful. Those interested in donating items or seeking more information can contact the Milltown Police Department at 812-407-5364.

On Thursday, a Monroe County man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. 33 year old Tony Purcell of Bloomington pleaded guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony, on May 11th, 2023, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was originally sentenced to 910 days, with 10 days jail credit, and the remainder of his sentence suspended. He was ordered to serve 545 days on supervised probation in exchange for his guilty plea. However, after failing to comply with the terms and conditions of his probation, on Thursday, Judge Cline sentenced Purcell to 850 days in the Indiana Department of Correction and terminated his probation unsuccessfully.

On Wednesday, Indiana State police were contacted to assist the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office with a domestic dispute involving a firearm. Police went to a female’s residence and spoke to her about the incident. Preliminary investigation revealed the victim was in the Raglesville area when her boyfriend arrived and started an argument. They both got back into their respective vehicles and as she began to leave, 43 year old Jeremy Graber of Odon pulled his vehicle behind her, not allowing her to leave. They both exited their vehicles and began to struggle. Graber then sprayed her and her vehicle with spray paint. Graber then retrieved a handgun from his vehicle and shot a round into her vehicle where she was standing. When the female used the phone to call the police, Graber left the scene. At the location of the alleged incident, Officers located a spent shell casing and a can of spray paint. Officers observed paint on the female and her vehicle. A bullet was also located inside the engine compartment of the vehicle. A short time later, Officers with the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office located Graber in a wooded area near Crane. Graber was arrested without incident and was transported to the Daviess County jail on charges of Criminal Confinement with a vehicle, Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon, Pointing a Loaded Firearm, Obstruction of Justice, Domestic Battery and Criminal Mischief.

Wednesday, September 25th, 2024

A southern Indiana woman was killed, and two others received severe injuries in a two vehicle crash Monday afternoon in Washington County. The Washington County Sheriff’s Department and other emergency personnel responded to the crash shortly after 5:00 Monday afternoon. The crash was located on SR56 just east of Heritage Chapel Road near Salem and was blocking all lanes of the roadway. One driver was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash and the second driver along with his passenger were rushed to University Hospital in Louisville. As a result of the investigation, officers believe a red 2008 Toyota passenger car was traveling eastbound on SR56 just east of Heritage Chapel Road. The Toyota was driven by 27 year old Hannah Marie Davis of Scottsburg. As the Toyota continued eastbound, the vehicle crossed over the centerline and collided head on with a westbound, gray 2022 Jeep Gladiator. Davis was killed as a result of the collision. The two occupants of the Jeep were rushed by ambulance to University Hospital in Louisville with serious, but non-life threatening injuries. Both occupants were also from Scott County. The roadway remained closed for over three hours during the investigation. Officers from the Washington County Sheriff's Department, the Salem Fire Department, and the Washington County Coroner’s Office assisted at the scene.

A Bedford woman was arrested early Friday morning after a she was pulled over for a series of erratic driving. According to the probable cause affidavit, the incident began around 1:29 a.m. when police observed a blue Chevrolet Traverse traveling in the wrong lane of traffic on 6th Street in Bedford. Police observed the vehicle swerve to avoid hitting a parked car and continued driving in the oncoming lane for several blocks. Police then initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. Police immediately recognized the driver, identified as 32 year old Patrice Garrison of Bedford from a prior incident that occurred earlier in the evening. During the stop, police could smell the odor of alcohol on Garrison’s breath. Police also observed slurred speech and red, glassy eyes. Police then performed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests in which Garrison displayed significant impairment during the tests. A preliminary breath test indicated a blood alcohol content of 0.185. Garrison then consented to a chemical test at the Bedford Police Department that showed a blood alcohol level of 0.170. Garrison was taken to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of OWI with a prior, OWI endangerment with a previous conviction, and OWI with a blood alcohol content exceeding 0.15 percent.

The Dubois and Orange County Health Departments are reminding residents to stay vigilant in protecting themselves from West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. Four samples of mosquitoes have recently tested positive for West Nile Virus in Dubois County and two pools were positive in Orange County. The Dubois County Health Department encourages everyone in the county to protect themselves from mosquitoes by following these simple steps.

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothes and exposed skin
• Wear light colored clothing
• Avoid wet, highly vegetative areas where mosquitoes live
• Avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito biting times, dusk to dawn, when possible.

Steps to prevent mosquitoes from breeding are as follows.

• Eliminate areas of standing water on your property
• Repair failing septic systems.
• Remove any containers that will hold water.
• Clean your clogged gutters.
• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed. Tall vegetation is an excellent harborage area for mosquitoes.
• Keep swimming pools chlorinated and clean.
• The basic rule is; if water lasts more than 4 days mosquitoes can reproduce.

West Nile Virus can also infect our domestic animals like horses. The Virus is very serious and often fatal in horses. It is very important to contact your Veterinarian to get your horse immunized if you haven’t already.

Tuesday, September 24th, 2024

Early Monday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State police was patrolling the Dubois County area near Ferdinand when he received information that 22 year old Alejandro Angulo Ramos of Columbus Ohio was in the area. Ramos was wanted for homicide out of Ohio and was believed to be driving a beige 2004 Toyota Corolla on Interstate 64. The Indiana State Police and Dubois County Sheriff’s Office searched for the vehicle. Around 6:30 am, the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office located the suspected vehicle at a gas station in Ferdinand. Police arrived shortly after and approached the vehicle. As officers were standing by the vehicle, a male matching the description of Ramos exited an outside restroom. Officers made contact with the male and confirmed that the male was Ramos. Ramos was arrested without incident and transported to the Dubois County Jail where he will await extradition back to Ohio.

Thursday, September 19th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was taken into custody after a Saturday traffic stop. The incident started when police spotted a blue Harley Davidson motorcycle on Lincoln Avenue driven by 59 year old Walter Root of Bedford. According to Root’s driving records, he did not have a valid motorcycle endorsement or learner’s permit. Police then initiated a traffic stop as Root entered the Dairyland Gas Station in Bedford. As police approached Root, they could smell a strong odor of marijuana. Root initially denied possessing marijuana but later admitted to having a small quantity. When officers started their search of the motorcycle, Root became uncooperative and resisted officers. When police searched of the motorcycle, they found 12 grams of marijuana and a cigarette rolling device, a glass smoking device, two grams of methamphetamine and over 10 grams of cocaine. Root was taken to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of possession of cocaine over 10 grams, possession of meth, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest.

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested on drug charges after he was pulled over in Bedford. On Saturday, Police conducted a traffic stop along M Street in Bedford on a speeding Harley Davidson motorcycle. While speaking with the driver, 53 year old John Staggs of Bedford, Officers could smell the odor of marijuana. Staggs retrieved a baggie of marijuana from his pocket and gave it to police. A search of Staggs revealed he was in possession of 28 grams of methamphetamine, 2 grams of cocaine, 12 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Officers arrested Staggs on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine Over 28 Grams with Intent to Deal, Possession of Methamphetamine Over 28 Grams, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Bloomington man was arrested after police were called to a Friday night incident. Lawrence County Dispatch received a call reporting that 32 year old Charles Holtsclaw of Bloomington had driven over a fire hydrant at 55 Patton View in Bedford. Police then responded to the scene where a 2020 black Dodge Charger was blocking the roadway. According to police, Holtsclaw displayed signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, glossy eyes, and a strong odor of alcohol. Police gave Holtsclaw the opportunity to perform a standard field sobriety test and he declined. He was informed of the implications of refusing a chemical test. Holtsclaw was then arrested and transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital after a warrant was issued for a blood draw. According to police, during the transport to the hospital, Holtsclaw attempted to bribe the officer. Holtsclaw was later c leared by medical staff and taken to the Lawrence County Jail. Holtsclaw faces charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and bribery.

Tuesday, September 17th, 2024

A Reckless driving complaint led to police arresting a Missouri man in Orange County. On Friday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police responded to the Paoli area to assist the Paoli Police Department with searching for a reckless driver. A Short time later, Police located the vehicle on US 150 with the vehicle’s rear bumper dragging on the roadway. Troopers spoke to the driver, identified as 35 year old Zachary Heiniger of Saint Charles Missouri. According to police, Heiniger showed visible signs of impairment. While speaking with Heiniger, he admitted to allegedly running into a pole at a golf course in Jasper. Heiniger said that is why his bumper was falling off. Heiniger was transported to IU Health Hospital for a chemical test and medical clearance. Heiniger was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

A Harrison County man was injured after his grain truck overturned on Millers Sawmill Road in Washington County. On Wednesday, September 11th, around 12:20 pm, members of emergency services were dispatched to the area of Millers Sawmill Road for a motor vehicle accident involving a semi-tractor and trailer. Deputies arrived on the scene and found a semi-tractor and trailer on its side. Investigators determined the driver was traveling east on Millers Sawmill Road, when the semi-tractor and trailer full of soybeans, left the south side of the roadway and then overturned on the embankment. The driver was identified as 75 year old Kenny Simpson of Palmyra. Simpson was transported from the scene to St. Vincent Hospital in Salem, by members of the Washington County Ambulance Service. Simpson was then transferred to University of Louisville Hospital by air medical transport.

Monday, September 16th, 2024

The Indiana Department of Agriculture and Indiana State Police would like to remind Hoosier motorists of the upcoming increase in agriculture equipment for the harvest season. Motorists should adhere to the following safety tips:

• Farmers will pull over when they are able to let motorists pass. Be patient.

• Be alert. Farm equipment is wide, sometimes taking up most of the road.

• Be careful when passing. Do not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone” or within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevation structure or tunnel.

• Do not try to pass a slow-moving vehicle on the left without ensuring that the vehicle is not planning a left turn. It may appear that the driver is pulling over for you to pass when it is actually preparing to turn.

• Avoid tailgating, as some farm equipment might have to make sudden stops along the road.

• Allow plenty of time to get to a destination, be aware of alternate routes and avoid distractions.

On Sunday morning, around 11:45 a.m., Jasper Police received a report of an injured male with visible blood on his clothing and a head injury walking near the 15th Street entrance of the Riverwalk. While police searched for the individual, dispatch received a 911 call from a Riverwalk call box. The caller, was identified as the injured male. The victim reported that 26 year old Clara Whippo had struck him with a metal object causing him to suffer from a head injury. The man was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for medical treatment. Police immediately initiated a search for Whippo, who was in an agricultural field northeast of the 15th Street entrance to the Riverwalk. With the assistance of the department’s drone and K9 Gator, police successfully located Whippo. She was taken into custody without further incident. Whippo has been charged with attempted murder, battery with a deadly weapon, criminal recklessness, aggravated battery, neglect of an animal, and criminal trespass. She is currently being held at the Dubois County Jail. Also assisting at the scene were the Dubois County Sheriff’s Department, Memorial Hospital EMS, and Memorial Hospital in this incident.

The public is invited to attend a public information meeting to review maps and discuss plans for Section 2 of the Mid-States Corridor, the area currently being studied in Dubois County. The project team will provide updates and share a timeline for the study. The public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 26th, at Jasper Middle School at 3600 N. Portersville Rd., in Jasper. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with a presentation at 6 p.m. Activity is underway in the Dubois County area to determine a facility type, and access plan for the new highway. The Tier 2 Study will evaluate more site-specific impacts to determine the preferred location, and right-of-way needs for a 200-to-500-foot-wide facility within the 2,000-foot-wide study area. The Mid-States Corridor Project examines an improved highway connection in southern Indiana. It generally runs parallel to US 231 from Interstate 64, passing east of Huntingburg and the Jasper area, and extends north to connect to Interstate 69. Section 2 is the only section currently being studied. The limits are from I-64 to just north of Haysville. If unable to attend the meeting, members of the public are invited to attend office hours and speak with project team members, ask questions, and provide feedback at the project office located on the Jasper campus of Vincennes University at 850 College Ave., Jasper. Office hours are every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. Call the project office at 812-482-3116 with questions or to schedule an appointment. 

Thursday, September 12th, 2024

A Bedford man was killed after trying to escape a devastating fire that consumed his river cabin on Tuesday. Firefighters from Shawswick and Marion Township responded to the blaze at 4:12 p.m. in the area of East Palestine Lane in Bedford on Tuesday. Upon arrival, they found the cabin fully engulfed in flames, with smoke and fire extending to the deck that wrapped around the structure. The victim, 63 year old Rick Elkins of Bedford, an amputee, was discovered lying outside the cabin. Firefighters believe Elkins was attempting to flee when he fell down a flight of stairs. According to Firefighters, Elkins suffered severe burns and died at the scene. Fire personnel also found his wheelchair at the top of the stairs and Elkins was lying several feet from safety. The heat of the fire was so intense that it caused the cabin to collapse into the basement. The fire’s origin is still under investigation with officials suspecting it may have started in the kitchen.Tankers were brought in to supply water, and firefighters worked tirelessly to control the inferno. Firefighters remained on the scene until 8:00 p.m. The State Fire Marshal was brought in to help in the investigation. An autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death at a later date.

An anonymous tip submitted through the Dubois County Sheriff's Office mobile app resulted in the arrest of a Jasper man on multiple drug charges. On September 6th, Police received information that a male subject possessed methamphetamine, psychedelic mushrooms, marijuana and firearms inside his Jasper residence. On Tuesday, Detectives went to the residence to speak with the male subject, identified as Joshua Norman. Upon their arrival, Detectives knocked on the front door and noticed a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the residence. After no answer at the front door, detectives applied for a search warrant. A short time later, the search warrant was granted and executed. During a search of the residence, detectives located 4.3 grams of methamphetamine, 15.3 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, 52.5 grams of marijuana, miscellaneous items containing THC, multiple items of paraphernalia containing indicators of narcotics use, and several firearms. All items were seized and secured for evidence. Norman was transported to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance with Enhancing Circumstance, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Jasper man will be representing District 48 in the State Senate, following the resignation of former State Senator Mark Messmer. Daryl Schmitt was sworn in Tuesday, and will fill the Senate seat until at least November of 2026. District 48 includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike, and Spencer counties.

Tuesday, September 10th, 2024

A Single Vehicle Crash in Orange County Led to the arrest of a Knox County man. On Sunday morning, Troopers with the Indiana State Police responded to rural Orange County near French Lick to assist the Orange County Sheriff’s Office with a crashed vehicle. When police spoke to the driver, identified as 33 year old Brady Tucker of Vincennes. Tucker showed visible signs of impairment. Tucker was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli by ambulance for a chemical test and medical clearance. Tucker was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior, Criminal Confinement, Conversion and on warrants out of Martin County.

A routine traffic on Saturday led to the arrest of two people in Lawrence County. According to police, They were on patrol on Saturday when they observed a green 2002 Chevy Silverado traveling on State Road 54 West. After running the vehicle’s registration, police discovered the driver, identified as 29 year old Brent Covey of Bedford, did not have a valid driver’s license. Police also observed Covey failed to signal while changing lanes, prompting a traffic stop on State Road 37. During the stop, police noticed Covey’s erratic movements and slurred speech, suspecting him to be under the influence. 28 year old Kelly Perry of Bedford was also in the vehicle. A canine was called to the scene and indicated drugs were in the vehicle. During a search, officers discovered several items, including smoking devices and crystal methamphetamine. Covey consented to an oral fluid test using the department’s Sotoxa machine, which detected the presence of methamphetamine and cannabis in his system. Covey admitted to smoking methamphetamine the previous day. Perry later confessed that the items belonged to both of them. Both individuals were arrested. Covey was charged with operating while intoxicated under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Perry faces charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia.

A Jeffersonville man was arrested after a traffic stop occurred on Friday in Washington County. On Friday, around 1:15 a.m., Officers with the Salem Police Department observed a vehicle committing multiple infractions and initiated a traffic stop. After approaching the driver, Police detected the smell of marijuana and conducted a records check, which revealed the driver had a suspended license. A search of the vehicle was conducted and police found a bag containing methamphetamine, heroin, a hypodermic needle, and two bags of pills. Additionally, a loaded .45 caliber handgun was discovered and two digital scales were located. Police arrested the driver, identified as 36 year old Johnathon Bach of Jeffersonville and he was taken to The Washington County Jail on charges of Dealing in methamphetamine, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of cocaine/narcotic drug, Possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, Possession of a narcotic, Possession of a hypodermic needle, Driving while suspended prior and Operating a vehicle without financial responsibility with a prior conviction.

Monday, September 9th, 2024

The Jasper Police Department received a report of a reckless driver around 7:30 PM on Sunday. The report stated a vehicle was traveling at unsafe speeds, failing to maintain the path of travel, making unsafe passes, and endangering drivers from oncoming traffic. Police located the vehicle failing to stay in its lane. Police attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle with the vehicle failing to pull over multiple times. The vehicle eventually stopped and the driver who was identified as 49 year old Adix Guerrero of Jasper was detained. According to police, Guerrero displayed signs of impairment. An OWI investigation determined that Guerrero had a BAC of .112. Guerrero was taken to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle, Neglect of a Dependent, OWI With a Passenger Less Than 18 Years Of Age, OWI and OWI with Endangerment.

Friday, September 6th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested after a Wednesday night traffic stop in Bedford. On Wednesday, around 6:30pm, A Deputy with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Department conducted a traffic stop along SR 37 near 5th Street in Bedford. After detecting extreme nervousness and signs of criminal activity, canine, Roko was deployed, who gave a positive alert on the vehicle. A search of the vehicle resulted in police finding a glass smoking device with methamphetamine residue. A search of the driver, 39 year old Jared Elmore of Springville revealed he was in possession of methamphetamine. Elmore was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and Paraphernalia and taken to the Lawrence County Jail.

Two Washington County residents were arrested following an investigation into Drug dealing by the Indiana State Police. The investigation began in August when with Troopers received information of possible drug activity at a Smith Road address in rural eastern Washington County. As a result of information gained during the investigation, Troopers requested and received a search warrant for the address. On Wednesday, police executed the search warrant. During the search, officers located suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, currency, marijuana, and a firearm. As a result of the investigation and search, officers arrested the occupants, 61 year old Stephen Cole and 57 year old Tina Albertson both of Scottsburg. Cole and Albertson were transported to the Washington County Jail on charges of Dealing Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Serious Violent Felon, Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Wednesday, September 4th, 2024

A fatal accident claimed the life of a Dubois County man on Monday morning. On Monday morning around 3:46 AM, Dubois County Sheriff's Deputies responded to an accident on State Road 64, 300 feet west of Schnellville Road in Birdseye. During the investigation, it was determined that a 2010 Chevrolet Camaro was traveling westbound on State Road 64, when for an unknown reason, the vehicle veered off the north side of the roadway. The Camaro traveled 600 feet, rolling over, before coming to rest on its top, down an embankment. A male individual was transported by ambulance from the scene to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The accident is still under investigation and no names are being released at this time. Dubois County Deputies were assisted on scene by the Indiana State Police, Birdseye Fire Department, Memorial Hospital Emergency Medical Services and Sternberg's Wrecker Service.

Two Lawrence County men were arrested after police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle. On Tuesday morning around 2:00am, officers with the Lawrence County Sherriff's Department investigated a suspicious truck in a driveway in the 1700 block of Dutch Ridge Road in Heltonville after the property owner advised there should be no vehicles there. Officers detected indicators of criminal activity and discovered the male driver, identified as 32 year old John Rogers of Heltonville had a suspended license. The male passenger originally gave a false name, then later during the investigation, officers were able to identify him as 36 year old Michael Stone of Heltonville. Officers also discovered Stone had an active warrant through Monroe County. Rogers was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, a 9mm handgun, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and hypodermic syringes. Stone was found to be in possession of a hypodermic syringe as well. Officers arrested Rogers for Possession of Methamphetamine with a Firearm, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Syringe, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended with a Prior Conviction. Stone was arrested for the Monroe County warrant plus Identity Deception and Possession of Syringe. Both were taken to the Lawrence County Jail.

A Juvenile was arrested o n Labor Day after police were called due to an airsoft gun incident. On Monday, Bedford Police were called to the 1000 block of O Street around 6:38 p.m. for an incident involving four juvenile males and an airsoft pistol. When police arrived at the home, police found a young boy with visible injuries along with two red welts on his right arm and one on his left middle finger. The victim was shot at by two other boys whose names he didn’t know. The injured boy’s father filed a battery report and requested charges against the boys. Following a search, officers located the two boys in a yard in the 1000 block of M Street. During questioning, one of the suspects, retrieved the airsoft pistol from inside the residence and told police the victim had asked to be shot. The 10 year-old was taken into custody and taken to the Bedford Police Department. Police then released the boy into the custody of his father.

Monday, September 2nd, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested on drug charges after a Thursday traffic stop. On Thursday, around 8pm, A Deputy with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Department was on patrol Oak Lane, near the SR 37/US50 junction in Bedford. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the driver, identified as 29 years old Ryan Coats of Williams. Coats was found to be wanted on an active warrant. During the arrest, a Bedford police canine was deployed and gave a positive alert on the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a baggie which contained suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine. Police arrested Coats for the warrant as well as possession of a narcotic drug and possession of methamphetamine.

A Knox County woman was taken into custody after police noticed a suspicious vehicle while on patrol in Jasper. On Wednesday around 10:45 PM, Jasper Police observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the Grand Rental parking lot after business hours while on patrol. Police then made contact with the driver of the vehicle, who was identified as 29-year-old Elisa Ferrer of Vincennes. During the investigation, a strong odor of marijuana was detected in the vehicle. A K9 was brought in and the presence of narcotics was positively indicated. A search of the vehicle uncovered a pill bottle contained a powder-like substance that tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl. Multiple pill bottles with various prescription drugs, including Schedule II controlled substances not prescribed to the driver were also found. Ferrer was arrested and taken to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Legend Drug and Possession of Cocaine or Narcotic Drug.

A man was killed after a one vehicle accident occurred in Perry County. On Saturday morning around 04:50AM, deputies with the Perry County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the area of Addison Dam Road and North State Road 66 for a single vehicle accident. Preliminary investigation shows that a 2005 Ford F250, operated by 35 year old Travis Drake of Rome, was traveling southwest on State Road 66 when it struck a construction barricade, causing the truck to roll. Drake was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Perry County Sheriff's Office was assisted by Perry County EMS, Perry County Fire Rescue, and the Perry County Coroner's Office. This incident is still currently under investigation.

Thursday, August 29th, 2024

Two Orange County natives are the new owners of a French Lick hotel. Jonathan and Josh Smith are brothers who grew up in Orleans and graduated from Purdue University purchased Lane’s Motel in French Lick in November of 2023. Since taking over they’ve made several renovations of the property, revamped the website, added online reservations and renamed the business to The Valley Inn & Suites.  Guests can book directly with the motel’s website or through Expedia and Booking.com. The motel, which is within walking distance of several Springs Valley attractions, has 40 rooms. Room options include standard king/queen rooms and suites. The Smiths are the first ownership change in more than 30 years. Located on Ind. 56, the motel was built in the 1970s and additions were built over time, resulting in three buildings. Exterior work included repainting the building a blue/gray color and a new sign. All rooms received new flooring, drywall, paint, furnishings, bedding, fixtures and plumbing. In the future, guests will receive an entry code via phone, allowing them to go straight to their room without needing to check-in at the lobby. The Smiths said they were drawn to the French Lick area because of the many attractions that bring more than 1 million visitors to the area each year.

An Indiana Conservation Officer is being credited with saving a life after helping rescue a woman from a house fire. On Monday around 12:20 p.m., ICO Kendrick Fuhrman was on patrol when he responded to a call of a house fire in the 800 block of High Street in the town of Shoals. One of the first to arrive on scene, he was told by bystanders that people were still inside the home. Fuhrman entered the burning home and located a male and a female occupant. The female needed help getting out of the home, and Fuhrman and the male assisted her as all exited before flames engulfed the house. After ensuring the occupants were a safe distance from the house, Fuhrman helped the Shoals Volunteer Fire Department with trying to get the blaze under control.  Officer Fuhrman is a 2009 Graduate of Shoals High School in Martin County. He then pursued his Conservation Law Enforcement degree from Vincennes University, graduating in 2011. Officer Fuhrman began his career as an Indiana Conservation Officer in August 2012.Other agencies responding to the scene included Medic One, Martin County Sheriff's Department, Duke Energy, and Martin County Civil Defense Fire Department.

A Mitchell man was arrested on Sunday after he allegedly interfered with a police investigation. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday when members of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department and Mitchell Police arrived at an apartment in the 300 block of East Frank Street in Mitchell to serve an arrest warrant on 53 year old Tonya Hattabaugh of Bedford, who was wanted for a probation violation. When police asked about Hattabaught, 62 year old Warner Martin of Mitchell denied she was in the apartment. Despite initial denials from Martin, Hattabaugh was eventually found inside the apartment, which lead to the arrests of both Hattabaugh and Martin. Martin is facing a charge of interfering with a police investigation and assisting a criminal.

Tuesday, August 27th, 2024

An Orange County man was killed in a single vehicle crash on Saturday evening in Mitchell. On Saturday, around 5:30pm, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a single vehicle accident in the 1200 block of VFW Road in Mitchell. The investigation revealed that a 2002 Ford F-250, being operated by 39 year old Steven Tillett of Orleans had been northbound on VFW Road at what appeared to be a high rate of speed. The Ford crested a hill and left the roadway on the east side. The Ford re-entered the roadway, but due to a steering over correction, immediately began to skid across the roadway for over 100 feet, where it then left the road. The truck slid sideways for a short distance in a field before rolling over, passenger side first onto its top, then back upright. During the rollover, Tillett, was ejected from the truck. Tillett did not survive his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other occupants of the truck. The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by IU Health EMS and Bland’s Wrecker Service.

A traffic stop for Inoperable Taillights led to the arrest of a Crawford County woman on Saturday. On Saturday night, An Indiana State Police trooper was working on State Road 64 near Marengo. The trooper observed a vehicle pass her that did not have any working taillights. The trooper activated their emergency lights and stopped the vehicle. Police then spoke to the driver, who was identified as 36 year old Heather Preston of Marengo. Preston showed visible signs of impairment and during a search of the vehicle, police found suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and paraphernalia. Preston was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test and then taken to the Crawford County jail. Preston is facing charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated with a Minor Under 18 Years Old Inside the Vehicle, Neglect of a Dependent, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office & their K-9 assisted at the scene.

Monday, August 26th, 2024

On Saturday afternoon, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on State Road 161 near Holland. The Trooper observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on State Road 161. Police then activated their emergency lights and made a traffic stop. Police spoke to the driver, identified as 31 year old Darrell Russell of Indianapolis. Russell showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Russell was arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Minor Under 18 Years Old inside the vehicle and Driving While Suspended with a Prior. The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.

Detectives from the Indiana State Police arrested a former Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Probationary Deputy on charges related to an allegation of sexual battery. Detectives initiated an investigation involving 29 year old Jeffery Freeman of Greencastle after the they received a report from the Columbus Police Department during the late hours of August 21st st.  An initial report of sexual battery was made by a female victim from Bartholomew County. CPD forwarded information to Detectives and police then interviewed the victim on Thursday. Following an administrative review of the incident, Sheriff’s Office Command Staff learned of a second policy violation involving Freeman and another female subject. Police are investigating this incident as well. Freeman was arrested without incident and transported to the Monroe County Jail where he was booked. His custody was transferred to the Morgan County Jail, and his employment with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office was terminated. Freeman is facing charges of Sexual Battery, Strangulation, Official Misconduct and Obstruction of Justice.

Friday, August 23rd, 2024

The Orleans Fire Department has announced that it has been awarded a $5000 grant from the Orange County Community Foundation. The Fire Department plans to expand its vehicle extrication tools with the money. The department has chosen to purchase a battery-powered TNT R am  to complement its other  battery-powered tools. The TNT Ram is a high powered extrication devices that operates around 10,000 psi and acts as a portable hydraulic ram to separate wreckage. Having one of these pieces of equipment available will help the Orleans Fire Department to better keep the public safe and rescue those in need from danger.

Jeff Callahan, the former coach and athletic director at Bedford North Lawrence High School, received the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award , which is t he state’s highest honor . The award was given to him during the 2024 Bedford Chamber Dinner on August 15 th . Representative Chris May presented the award, which highlight Callahan’s remarkable community impact and unwavering commitment to student athletes. May commended Callahan as a “driving force” in the success of Lawrence County’s sports programs, emphasizing that Callahan’s name is synonymous with excellence. Callahan’s distinguished career in education spans over 30 years, with a strong emphasis on athletic programs at BNL and in his own home. Alongside his wife, Paige, he raised two accomplished collegiate athletes, Brandt and Whitt, while their daughter, Merritt, is currently pursuing a pharmacy degree at Butler University. Callahan holds degrees from Vanderbilt University and Indiana Wesleyan University, bringing 33 years of experience in teaching and administration to his career. H e has served as the Athletic Director at Bedford North Lawrence since 2003, retiring earlier this year. While in that position , BNL achieved 69 Sectional Championships, 18 Regional Championships, 3 Semi-State Championships, and 5 State Championships.

A Former Hospital Employee was Sentenced to over a year in Federal Prison for Embezzling Over $100,000 in medical funds. 62 year old Michele Rose of Jasper has been sentenced to a year and one day in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, after pleading guilty to five counts of wire fraud. Rose was also ordered to pay restitution. According to court documents, since 1991, Rose was employed as a Medical Staff Coordinator at a nonprofit health care organization headquartered in Jasper. In this role, Rose had various responsibilities, including overseeing the medical staff checking account and preparing a monthly financial report of that checking account. Between March 2011 and December 2020, Rose wrote fraudulent checks to herself out of the medical staff checking account, falsely rep orting that the money was intended to reimburse her for business expenditures. Rose then cashed the checks and used the money for personal living expenses. Rose got signatures on the fraudulent checks lying to people with signature authority, telling them they were for legitimate business expenses. Once the blank checks were signed, Rose completed the checks by writing them to herself. Over nearly a decade, Rose used over $150,000 from the medical staff fund. The United States Secret Service and Jasper Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard Young.

Wednesday, August 21st, 2024

Orleans Deputy Marshal Justin Riddle graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy on Friday, after completing 16 weeks of training.  Chief Deputy Marshal Roy McFarland and Town Marshal Jim Lindsey were in attendance for the graduation ceremonies that were held in Plainfield.

On Thursday, August 15 th, Governor Eric Holcomb presented Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company with the Governor’s Century Award, a prestigious recognition given to Hoosier businesses that have demonstrated resilience and dedication by operating continuously for at least 100 years. This award highlights the enduring commitment of Springs Valley to its community and its lasting impact. The Governor’s Century Award is part of Indiana’s recognition program celebrating the state’s long-standing businesses. This award was established to honor businesses that have thrived for 100 years or more, and reflects the stability, adaptability, and ongoing legacy of these organizations.

The Dubois County Sheriff's Department has been made aware of a scam circulating in the community. Scammers are posing as representatives from the Sheriff’s Office, claiming you have an outstanding warrant. They then demand payment in Bitcoin or threaten arrest. Police would like to remind the public that the Sheriff’s Office will NEVER request payment over the phone or ask for payment in crypto currency. If you receive such a call, Hang up immediately, Do NOT provide any personal or financial information and Report the incident to law enforcement.

Monday, August 19th, 2024

A Dubois County man was arrested after police were called about a suspected battery. Early Sunday morning, the Jasper Police Department were dispatched after they received a report of a person having been battered by a male suspect at Maple Grove Trailer Park. The caller also advised that the suspect had a pistol. When police arrived at the scene, they were able to locate the suspect in a trailer. The suspect who was later identified as 40 year old, Jose De Jesus Perez Martinez of Jasper, was detained by police. Upon investigation, officers located paraphernalia belonging to Martinez. Martinez then admitted to smoking Methamphetamine after testing .23 on a preliminary breath test. Martinez was taken to the Dubois County Jail and is facing charges of battery and possession of paraphernalia.

Thursday, August 15th, 2024

A Cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led to the arrest of a Salem man for possession of child pornography. Detectives with the Indiana State Police - Internet Crimes Against Children task force began an investigation in November of 2023 after receiving a cyber tip. The cyber tip report indicated that a specific account was possibly used to transmit child pornography images or video files. Investigators requested a search warrant based on information gathered during the investigation. As a result, on Wednesday, police executed a search warrant at a Pilgrim Way address in Salem. As a result of the investigation and search, Troopers arrested 52 year old Jim Dean Cozart for four counts of Possession of Child Pornography and transported him to the Washington County Jail without incident.

On Friday around 7:54 am, deputies in Washington County along with emergency services personnel responded to a three vehicle crash, on Eastern School Road, in front of the East Washington School Corporation. Investigators at the scene determined that 17 year old Garrett Drury of Borden was traveling north on Eastern School Road in a 1996 Ford F-150 when he drove into the back of a stopped vehicle on Eastern School Road in Pekin. Drury’s vehicle collided with a 2016 Ford Escape, which was being operated by 80 year old Rosemary Russell of Pekin. Russell’s vehicle was pushed into the back of a 2004 Ford Explore, which was also stopped on Eastern School Road and being operated by 37 year old Sheri Coy of Clarksville. Drury stated he was traveling northbound on Eastern School Road, when a passenger in his vehicle told him to look at something on the edge of the roadway. Drury said he quickly looked away and when he looked back at the roadway, the vehicle in front of him had abruptly stopped and he was not able to slow down fast enough to avoid a collision with the Russell vehicle. Russell was the only person injured in the accident and she was transported to Baptist Floyd Hospital by the Washington County Ambulance Service for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

A Saturday afternoon collision between two vehicles killed a Bedford man. According to police, 58 year old James Stigall was driving a silver Ford Focus. He turned left on John Williams Boulevard to turn north. At that time, 41 year old Jeremy Hall of Bedford was driving a black Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle westbound on John Williams Boulevard. Stigall told police another vehicle stopped in the opposing left turn lane, causing him difficulty seeing oncoming traffic. Stigall said he made the left turn believing it was safe and he never saw the motorcycle. The motorcycle collided with the passenger side of the Ford Focus. Hall who was not wearing a helmet, suffered severe injuries and was unresponsive. Hall was taken by ambulance to IU Health Bedford Hospital where he later died from his injuries. Stigall consented to a blood draw, and police later learned the motorcycle had been reported stolen in Bloomington in 2021. Hall’s driver’s license was later found to be suspended.

Tuesday, August 13th, 2024

A Kentucky man was arrested after police received a report of an erratic driver in Orange County. Late Saturday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was on patrol in the Orange County area near Paoli. The Trooper heard Orange County traffic radio that a vehicle was being followed by an off-duty police officer. The vehicle was driving erratically and police located the vehicle and made a traffic stop on US 150. Police then talked to the driver, who was identified as 43 year old Luis Ramirez of Fairdale Kentucky. Ramirez showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Ramirez was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction. Assisting at the scene were the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

A Single Vehicle Crash in Dubois County led to the arrest of a man for driving while impaired. Early Saturday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in the Dubois County area and responded to a single vehicle crash on Van Buren Street in Huntingburg. When police arrived, the driver of the vehicle, 35 year old Juan Aleman of Huntingburg, was being extricated from the vehicle. Once removed from the vehicle, Aleman showed visible signs of impairment while speaking with police. Aleman was transported by ambulance to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test and medical clearance. Aleman was arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle Without Ever Receiving a License and Operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

A lengthy investigation by the Indiana State Police, in conjunction with the Indiana State Board of Accounts resulted in the arrest of the former Oolitic Clerk-Treasurer for Official Misconduct. Former Oolitic Clerk-Treasurer, 37 year old Jessica Staggs of Bedford was taken into custody on Monday, after she surrendered herself to the Lawrence County Jail without incident. Staggs had served as the Ooltic Clerk-Treasurer between October 2014 and December 2020. The Indiana State Board of Accounts initiated its investigation in July of 2015 and determined that 99 utility payments were not fully deposited into the town account. Investigators discovered 157 checks did not reflect recorded payment amounts with a monetary discrepancy totaling over $79,000. The investigation compared deposited utility payments and payments posted on the same day and also revealed Staggs had claimed mileage reimbursements for trips to the bank to make the deposits. Indiana State Police Detectives conducted their investigation in conjunction with the SBA investigation and a warrant was then issued for Staggs' arrest. Staggs turned herself in at the Lawrence County Jail and is facing one count of Official Misconduct.

Monday, August 12th, 2024

A Saturday night vehicle pursuit led to the arrest of a Daviess County man in Martin County. On Saturday, around 8:15 p.m., Indiana State Police initiated a traffic stop on a 2019 Buick passenger car on US 50 near 2 nd Street in Loogootee for traveling 51-mph in a 35-mph zone. The driver of the Buick, later identified as 61 year old Steven Kiser of Odon, did not stop and led troopers on a vehicle pursuit with speeds up over 80-mph. The chase continued into Daviess County, where the Buick left the roadway and ran over a mailbox. The Buick turned around and drove back into Loogootee. The vehicle pulled into a church parking area and came to a stop where Kiser was taken into custody without incident. Kiser was taken to the Martin County Jail on charges of Resisting Law Enforcement with a Motor Vehicle, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash and Reckless Driving. Indiana State police were assisted by the Martin County Sheriff's Office and the Loogootee Police Department.

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested after an early morning traffic stop in French Lick. Early Wednesday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in the French Lick area when they observed a vehicle cross the center line multiple times. Police ran the plates and the vehicle registration came back expired. Police then made a traffic stop on the vehicle. Police approached the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 47 year old Kyle Eickleberger of Paoli. Eickleberger showed visible signs of impairment. Eickleberger was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Eickleberger was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Assisting at the scene were the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

A Mitchell man was arrested after police were called to a Lawrence County residence for a possible burglary. On Tuesday, around 6:48pm, police responded to a possible burglary in progress in the 3500 block of SR 37 in Mitchell. Upon arrival, officers located 35 year old Steven Bradley of Mitchell on the property carrying a pneumatic jackhammer. A door to one of the buildings was found to have been pried open and there were multiple items and tools that had been placed outside of the building as if to be carried away. After officers completed their investigation, Bradley was arrested for Burglary, Theft, and Trespassing. He was incarcerated at the Lawrence County Jail.

An anonymous tip submitted via the Dubois County Sheriff's Office mobile app resulted in the arrest of a Dubois resident on multiple felony charges. On Monday, police received an anonymous tip in reference to a Dubois resident manufacturing methamphetamine. Police went to the address of 40 year old Robert Rasche of Dubois to initiate a narcotics investigation. While speaking with Rasche detectives received permission from Rasche to enter his garage. While in the garage, detectives could smell a strong chemical odor and observed a glass smoking pipe containing burnt white residue just inside the doorway. A search warrant for the property was applied for, granted and executed. During a search of the property, detectives located 21.3g of methamphetamine, multiple firearms, one body armor tactical vest with plates, and multiple items of drug paraphernalia. Rasche was transported to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Domestic Batterer and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Orange County will hold its annual County Fair debrief on Tuesday, August 20th from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM at the Orange County Community Center, located at 1075 Sandy Hook Rd in Paoli. The event is open to the public and aims to gather feedback on programming, projects, and areas of improvement for future county fairs. Those in attendance are asked to put their thoughts in writing. Following the public session, a closed meeting will be held from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM for current 4-H Council, 4-H Inc Board, and Livestock Committee members. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided at both sessions. For more information, please contact the Orange County Purdue Extension office at 812-723-7107 or at  orangeces@purdue.edu.

No Injuries were reported on Tuesday after an airplane ran off the runway at the Salem airport. Around 8:48 am, on Tuesday the Washington County Sheriff’s Department Dispatch Center received a report of an air plane that traveled off the east end of the runway at the Salem Municipal AirPort and came to a rest in a soybean field. Police, fire and EMS personnel responded to the call. The pilot and two passengers were traveling to the Salem area from Pennsylvania. The pilot was attempting to land when the plane traveled off the east end of the runway and nobody was injured. Salem Police are working with the FAA to investigate the incident.

The Coalition Against the Mid-States Corridor is holding an informational meeting on Thursday, August 15th, in the Vincennes University Jasper CTIM Auditorium. Doors will open at 5:45 p.m. and the meeting will start at 6 p.m. The meeting will feature speakers and presentations from Jason McCoy of Martin County and Teresa Kendall of Dubois County. The program with presentations and questions-and-answers will end at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024

One man was killed and another injured after a Monday afternoon crash in Crawford County. On Monday afternoon, around 1:25 p.m., Indiana State Police and Crawford County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle crash on State Road 37 just north of Bethany Church Road near Eckerty. A Preliminary investigation indicated that 20 year old Camiren Etienne of Tell City was driving a 2003 Buick passenger car southbound on State Road 37 and 50 year old Brian Humphrey of French Lick was driving a 2003 Chevrolet SUV northbound on State Road 37. For an unknown reason, Humphrey crossed the center line of State Road 37 and hit Etienne head on. Etienne died on the scene from his injuries. Humphrey was transported by helicopter to the University of Louisville Hospital. This is an ongoing investigation. Also assisting at the scene were the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Crawford County Coroner, English Fire Department Crawford County EMS, and Air Evac.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after the Lawrence County Sheriff's Department responded to a one vehicle crash. On Sunday, around 11:15am, police responded to a report of a one-vehicle property damage crash in the 100 block of SR 158 in Williams. Upon arrival, police located a 38 year old Mitchell man identified as Robert Henderson, confused and disoriented in a vehicle not far from the reported crash. Henderson appeared to be impaired and police noticed Suboxone pills in plain view. The male was also found to be in possession of 5 grams of methamphetamine. A search warrant for a blood draw was obtained and executed. The male was also medically cleared at the hospital. Henderson was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Legend Drug, OWI, and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash.

Monday, August 5th, 2024

A Pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in Washington County on Thursday. On Thursday around 10:29 am, Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies along with members of emergency services responded to the area of 4475 E. Canton Road near Salem, as a pedestrian was reportedly struck by a vehicle. At the scene, investigators determined that 65 year old Anita Lee of Franklin, Kentucky was driving eastbound on Canton Road, in a white Cadillac XT6. Lee came to the top of a hill and struck 54 year old Russell Larson of Pekin. Larson was weed eating in the ditch along the south side of the roadway with his back to the roadway. Larson then stepped backwards into the roadway and was struck by Lee’s vehicle. The Washington County Ambulance Service transported Larson to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department will be hosting their quarterly drive-thru Drug Drop and Food Drive at the Washington County Sheriff's Department on Saturday August 17th from 9:00 am till noon. Citizens can simply drive through the parking lot and hand off expired or unwanted prescription medications and drive away, no questions asked. The medications are incinerated the same day, which is an approved method of disposal. Flushing medications down the toilet or sink drain is never recommended. They will also be collecting non-perishable food items that same day, which will be donated to the local food bank in Salem.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure for State Road 64 in Crawford County. Beginning on or around Wednesday, August 7, crews will begin a road closures on State Road 64 in Crawford County near Marengo. This closure will occur between the intersections of State Road 37 and State Road 66. This road closure will allow crews to perform a seal coat road maintenance project. Work is expected to take two weeks to complete, depending on the weather. The detour for this project is State Road 237 to I-64 to State Road 66. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure.

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

A Salem man was arrested on a warrant for impersonating a public servant following an investigation by the Indiana State Police. The investigation began in mid July when detectives learned that 62 year old William Salyer, of Salem, allegedly left two voicemails with an Arizona man in which he identified himself as a detective with the Indiana State police. In the voicemails, Salyer allegedly stated that he would contact the Arizona State Police for theft charges if a locket mailed to Arizona was not immediately returned. Police learned that a woman residing in Salem had an online relationship with the Arizona man and mailed him a locket containing small portion of her deceased son’s ashes. The locket was to be buried on a Native American reservation in Arizona. When the Arizona man returned the call and spoke with Salyer, he became suspicious Salyer was not a police officer and contacted the Indiana State Police. The investigation included interviews with all parties involved. At the conclusion of the investigation, all information was provided to the Washington County Prosecutor’s Office for review and possible charges. On Wednesday, an arrest warrant was issued for two counts of Impersonation of a Public Servant. On Thursday morning, Salyer was arrested on the warrant and transported to the Washington County Jail.

The Dubois County Sheriff's Office has announced the hiring of Noah Muller as a Jail Officer. Noah brings valuable experience to the role, having interned at the Dubois County Sheriff's Office during his final semester of high school. He is graduate of Forest Park Jr/Sr High School, Noah is looking to gain firsthand experience in law enforcement, with aspirations to become a police officer. Noah expressed his excitement for the position, stating that he is excited for the experience that being a jail officer can give him. In his free time, Noah enjoys deer hunting, playing disc golf, and watching and playing soccer.

A Dubois County man was arrested after police received a report of a stolen vehicle. Around 7:10 PM on Wednesday, Jasper Police were notified of a possible motor vehicle theft that had occurred. Police then launched an investigation into the incident. During the investigation, police found the allegedly stolen vehicle located at Memorial Hospital. Police also found suspect at the hospital, who was identified as 38 year old Brandon Casey of Jasper. Casey was arrested and taken to the Dubois County Jail and police returned the vehicle to the rightful owner. Casey is facing charges of Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Unauthorized Entry of a Vehicle, Criminal Conversion, Criminal Mischief, Reckless Driving and Operating Without Ever Receiving A License.

Thursday, August 1st, 2024

The Orleans Police Department has sworn in three new officers in a Wednesday afternoon ceremony. Those officers sworn in were Christopher Hubbard, Kelly Spivey, Gavin Bissonnette. Town Clerk Robert Henderson administered the Oath of Office. Officer Hubbard will be the Orleans Jr. Sr. High School’s SRO. Officer Hubbard came from the French Lick Police Department. Officer Spivey will be the Orleans Elementary School’s SRO. SRO Spivey brings years of experience and past SRO experience from the Beech Grove Police Department. Officer Bissonnette has showed a great work ethic and has gained a lot of knowledge working the road the past couple of months for Orleans. Officer Bissonnette is scheduled to start the academy in late August.

Governor Eric Holcomb is directing flags to be flown at half-staff in Lawrence County in honor and remembrance of Former State Representative Ralph Anderson. Rep. Anderson served in office from 1972-1974.  Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset in Lawrence County on Friday, August 2. Gov. Holcomb is asking businesses and residents in Lawrence County to lower their flags as well.

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

As students head back to the classroom, the Paoli Police Department along with several other Departments will be stepping up patrols and is reminding motorists to be on the lookout for school buses in the community. Although school buses are one of the safest modes of transportation, injuries and fatalities do occur outside of, or near the buses. Most often, these tragedies occur because a motorist has failed to slow down and obey the bus’s stop sign, or to follow local traffic laws. Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop when the overhead lights on a school bus are flashing yellow. Once the lights turn red and the stop arm extends, drivers are required by law to stop on all roads with only one exception. On highways divided by a physical barrier, such as a concrete wall or grassy median, only vehicles traveling in the same direction as the school bus are required to stop in these circumstances. In April, thousands of bus drivers who participated in a one-day observational survey counted over 1,500 stop-arm violations in Indiana. The school bus loading and unloading area is called the “Danger Zone.” Specifically, this is any side of the bus where the bus driver can’t see the child and, therefore, the child is in the most danger. These areas include: 10 feet in front of the bus, where the driver may be sitting too high to see a child, 10 feet on either side of the bus, where a child may be in the driver’s blind spots and Behind the school bus.

A Bedford man was arrested following a lengthy investigation into the distribution and possession of child pornography. The Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Task Force served a residential search warrant at the male subject’s residence on Tuesday. Police initiated an investigation and identified the suspect as 43 year old Joshua Shane Carter of Bedford. Police received two cybertip reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.  During the investigation, Homeland Security Investigations of North Carolina made contact and advised their agency had initiated an investigation into Carter after he had shared child pornography on Discord. Police served the search warrant at Carter’s residence Tuesday morning. Carter was arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail. He is facing Three counts of Distribution of Child Pornography under 12 years of age and Seven counts of Possession of Child Pornography. Additional charges from North Carolina are pending.

A Lawrence County man was arrested on drug charges on Thursday after police stopped him for an expired license plate. Police were on patrol when they noticed a silver Chevrolet Trailblazer with the expired plate traveling north on State Road 37. Police found that the plate had expired on December 7th of 2023. The driver, who was identified as 53 year old Travis Wells of Bedford was pulled over. While police were speaking with Wells, they noticed knives and an electronic pen mainly used to smoke THC wax. Police conducted a search of the vehicle and found a THC pen, a plastic container that contained 2.2 grams of crystal meth, including the packaging, and numerous knives. Wells was arrested on charges of possession of meth and marijuana.

Tuesday, July 30th, 2024

The body of a Bedford man was pulled from the East Fork of White River on Saturday in Lawrence County. According to the Department of Natural Resource, around 8:12 p.m. on Saturday, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department requested Indiana Conservation Officers to assist with the recovery of a body located near the 3900 block of Boat Club Road. The body was recovered and identified as 64 year old Brian Endris of Bedford. Initial investigation has revealed no signs of foul play. The Lawrence County Coroner’s Office is ruling this as an accidental drowning. The incident is under investigation, and no additional information is available.

A suspected arsonist was arrested after a fire incident occured in Lawrence County. Bedford Police were called to the 1000 block of T Street around 11:51 p.m. on Friday when 45 year old Christopher Brown of Bedford reported people in the home. Brown later told police it wasn’t people in the loft but a squirrel. A short time later around 12:18 a.m. Brown reported his house was on fire. When emergency personnel arrived, they found flames and smoke emitting from the home. When asked what happened, Brown told police when he thought he heard people and lit a candle. He then admitted to putting the candle near some clothing and police detained Brown. Later on, Brown changed his story and said he had fallen asleep in the living room and woke to find the power off. He lit a candle next to some clothing, which started the fire. Brown was then arrested on a charge of arson.

Monday, July 29th, 2024

A Lawrence County Sheriff’s deputy was killed after he crashed his motorcycle on Saturday in Greene County. According to Greene County Sheriff’s Department, the driver, 25 year old Brenten Trueblood was traveling east on State Road 445 toward I-69 when he left the roadway for an unknown reason. He then came to a stop off the southwest portion of the road near the southbound ramp. Trueblood was taken to IU Health Bloomington Hospital where he died from his injuries. The Greene County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police Reconstructionists are still investigating the accident. Agencies assisting at the scene were the Indiana State Police, Greene County Ambulance Service, Eastern Greene Fire Territory, and Monroe Fire Protection District.

A juvenile male from Kentucky was arrested after a dispute between two groups of juveniles resulted in shots fired in Perry County. Around 8 p.m., the Perry County Sheriff’s Office responded to Rainbow Lake in Derby for the report of shots fired. During the investigation, it was discovered that two individuals had suffered suspected injuries from gunshots fired. A third individual suffered minor injuries from broken glass. Shortly after, the Perry County Sheriff's Office located two vehicles that were involved in the shooting leaving the area. A male juvenile was arrested and transported to the Perry County Jail and then to a juvenile facility. The Indiana State Police were contacted for the investigation into the shooting. Two juveniles were transported to area hospitals for their injuries. This case is still under investigation. No names in this investigation are being released because most of the individuals involved are juveniles. The Juvenile arrested is facing charges of Attempted Murder, Aggravated Battery, Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Criminal Recklessness, Pointing a Firearm, Dealing Marijuana and Possession of Marijuana.

A Dubois County man was arrested after police received a report of a physical fight at a Jasper residence. Early Sunday morning, the Jasper Police Department received a report of an ongoing physical fight that occurred at a residence at 1441 Jackson Street. When police arrived on the scene, they took two male subjects into custody. One of those males was identified as 45 year old Robert Mckinney of Jasper. During the investigation of the incident, Police found Mckinney had made threats and attempted to grab the other male. The male subject then defended himself, while asking someone to call 911. Mckinney was booked into the Dubois County Jail and is facing charges of battery, disorderly conduct, intimidation, and public intoxication.

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

The Celestine Volunteer Fire Department announced on Sunday night that they were recently awarded a $30,000 grant from the Dubois County Community Foundation in conjunction with the Celestine Community Endowment. The money will go towards replacing old apparatus that is currently in use with new and more favorable apparatuses that have new features and functions that better enable the CVFD to fight fires. This is the 3rd time since March that the CVFD has received money to improve their equipment as back in March a contract was signed and specs were approved for a new fire engine that is coming in 2025. In April the Department was awarded a twenty thousand dollar grant from TC Energy to enable the department to outfit its new engine through TC Energy’s “Build Strong” program.

Last week, the Indiana Sheriffs Association held their summer conference in French Lick, where Dubois County Sheriff Tom Kleinhelter was named President of the ISA for 2025. The purpose of the Indiana Sheriffs Conference was to provide an opportunity for sheriffs and their staff from across the state to engage in professional development, training, and networking. The conference offered educational sessions, workshops, and discussions on the latest trends, challenges, and best practices in the field of law enforcement. The conference also served as an opportunity for collaboration among law enforcement agencies, promoting the exchange of ideas, and supporting the continuous improvement of county sheriff services in Indiana. As President of the Indiana Sheriffs Association, Sheriff Kleinhelter will oversee the implementation of the Association’s initiatives, including educational programs, training, legislative advocacy, and efforts to improve the administration and delivery of sheriff services. His leadership will ensure that the Association continues to promote professionalism within the criminal justice system, effectively raise necessary funds, and engage in long-range planning to enhance law enforcement practices throughout our state.

A Bloomington man was arrested after police found he was driving with drugs in his system. According to Police, on March 21st, around 4:37 p.m., the Bedford Police dispatch received a call about a blue tow truck driving erratically, crossing the center line, and unable to stay in its lane. Police were also informed the driver of this tow truck was wanted on a warrant. Police then conducted a traffic stop in a parking lot at 615 X Street in Bedford. During the stop, police identified the driver as 27 year old Curtis McCullough of Bloomington. Police conducted several field sobriety tests and McCullough passed the tests. Police then learned the vehicles registration was expired. Police later found during a drug test that he tested positive for ecstasy, amphetamines and several controlled substances. He then consented to a blood draw and was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital. The blood test results revealed that McCullough had fentanyl, nor fentanyl, amphetamines, and meth in his blood. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for McCullough’s arrest on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI with a controlled substance in his body.

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

The Orange County Highway Department will be closing Sandyhook Rd from the town of Paoli limits to Saddle Club Rd (Co Rd 140 N) starting Monday and lasting for up to 2 weeks. They will be working on a much needed slide correction just north of Paoli, They appreciate the public's patience during this improvement. This work is being done in preparation of new pavement on this road through the Community Crossing Matching Grant fund Orange County was awarded earlier this year.

Friday, July 19th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested on a warrant from a crash from August of 2023. According to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, on August 19th, around 9:09 a.m., officers responded to a cash on Mill Creek Road in Mitchell involving a pickup truck and horse and buggy. When police arrived, they found the driver, they found the driver of the truck, identified as 40 year old Jonathan Herald of Mitchell, appeared intoxicated. No one was injured in the crash. Police conducted several field sobriety tests that Herald failed. Herald was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw. Those tests revealed he had several controlled substances in his system. Herald had no valid prescription for any of the drugs found in his system. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for his arrest on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated on a controlled substance, OWI, and OWI with endangerment.

Wednesday, July 17th, 2024

On Sunday, officers of the Paoli Police Department conducted a routine patrol that led to the arrest of a woman identified as Angela Wininger. Officers utilized K9 Kilo during the stop. Kilo indicated the presence of narcotics at the rear passenger door of the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a plastic baggie with a crystal-like substance presumed to be methamphetamine. The substance was field-tested and confirmed to be methamphetamine, weighing 4 grams. Wininger is facing charges of possession of methamphetamine and paraphernalia.

A Lawrence County man and his mother were taken into custody after he was accused of kicking down a Bloomington man’s door and assaulting him. Bloomington Police responded to an apartment complex on Friday around 9:20 a.m. after a they received a report of an assault. When police arrived, they found the male victim with a swollen and bruised face and blood around the apartment. The victim told officers that 56 year old Jamie Jo Staten of Farmersburg had been staying at his apartment. She left the residence, but returned around midnight with her son. According to the victim, the son, 38 year old Phillip Magness Jr. of Bedford kicked down the door and struck him in the face with a tire iron. During the Investigation, Police reviewed security camera footage, which showed Staten and Magness walking up to the apartment’s front door with Staten carrying a tire iron. According to Police, Magness kicked the door multiple times before the pair entered the apartment. Magness was seen leaving shortly afterward, with Staten staying until officers arrived. Both Magness and Staten were arrested on charges of burglary with a deadly weapon, battery with a deadly weapon, and criminal mischief.

A Bedford man was arrested after police received information that he was dealing drugs from his home. Police set up surveillance on the home located in the 700 block of Glendale Way in Bedford.Police then noticed a white Chevrolet van driven by 39 year old Doug Harlan of Bedford exit the van and entered the house. Harlan then exited the house and police started to follow him. Police observed several traffic violations and conducted a traffic stop on Trogdon Lane just east of State Road 37. Canine Dusty arrived on the scene and conducted an exterior search of the vehicle. Dusty alerted officers to drugs in the vehicle. During the search, Police found a digital scale containing residue and 9.5 grams of crystal meth. Harlan is facing a charge of possession of meth between five and ten grams.

Monday, July 15th, 2024

A couple was arrested at an Orange County gas station after police were called for a Domestic Dispute on Thursday. Early Thursday morning, The Orange County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a report of a domestic dispute at an Orleans gas station. Officers were notified that the couple left in a vehicle driven by a female. Officers located the vehicle and identified the driver as 46 year old Kellie Allen of Bedford. The passenger, was identified as 49 year old Brian Todd of Bedford. When police spoke to both occupants, they noticed Allen showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. During the investigation, it was determined that Todd had also battered Allen and was in violation of a protection order. Both Allen and Todd were arrested and transported to the Orange County Jail. Allen is facing charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct. Todd was arrested on charges of Domestic Battery, Invasion of Privacy, Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct. Also Assisting at the scene were the Orange County Sheriff’s Office & Orleans Police Department.

The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office’s swore in their newest Deputy over the weekend. The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office has announce the swearing in of Zach Weisheit as their newest deputy. A 2018 graduate of Jasper High School, Zach was an active member of the football team, wrestling team, and Boy Scouts. Zach joined the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office as a Jail Officer in 2021. Zach is also a dedicated member of the Ireland Fire Department. Deputy Weisheit will begin his training at the Southwest Indiana Law Enforcement Academy on July 22.

Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline Sentences a man To over 2000 Days at The Indiana Department of Corrections for Violating Probation. On April 27, 2017, Rick Laws was sentenced to 15 Years with 6 Years suspended to the Indiana Department of Corrections for the crime of possession of methamphetamine as a level 3 felony. Laws was released from prison and began his probation term on August 3rd, 2023. While serving his term of supervised probation, Laws was arrested on February 14th, in Bartholomew County for the Offense of Intimidation with a deadly weapon which is a Level 5 Felony. Laws plead guilty to a Lesser charge. In addition to the new criminal charge, Laws admitted that he had consumed alcohol and used methamphetamine, marijuana and a controlled substance. Judge Cline revoked Laws suspended sentence and sentenced him to serve 2150 days at the Indiana Department of Corrections.

Thursday, July 11th, 2024

Orleans free summer concert series continues this coming Saturday with a performance by the Kicking Up Dust Band in historic Congress Square in downtown Orleans. The concert will get underway at 7 p.m. on “Bicentennial Stage,” located in the southwest corner of the square. Kicking-up-Dust is a newly formed Country Rock Mix founded this past winter. The Band consists of five seasoned musicians that have been playing music their entire lives and all five members have been engaged in numerous musical endeavors. The group were part of the entertainment for this year’s Dogwood Festival. Those attending are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets as seating in the park is limited. Band Members include: Brian Seitz of Jasper. Tom Babbitt of French Lick. Gary Brown of Salem. Tim Kennedy of Salem and David Williamson of New Albany.

The Indiana State Police are investigating a crash that claimed the life of a Daviess County man Wednesday afternoon. Around 2:30 Wednesday afternoon, police and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two vehicle crash on I-64 eastbound, 5 miles west of the Corydon exit. Once on the scene, officers discovered the driver of a black 2023 Tesla T3 collided with the rear of a semi-tractor and trailer. The driver of the Tesla, 50 year old Suresh Kumar Lohano of Washington was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the semi was not injured. After the preliminary investigation, officers believe a 2011 Kenworth semi-truck and trailer was eastbound on I-64 when it experienced a mechanical issue causing the vehicle to lose power. The driver could not steer the semi into the right lane or shoulder due to traffic in the right lane, and the truck quickly slowed and stopped in the left lane of the interstate. A short time later, the black Tesla T3 approached from the west but failed to merge into the right lane before colliding with the rear of the semi-trailer. The I-64 eastbound lanes remained partially closed until 6:15 pm. This crash is still under investigation.

Detectives and crime scene investigators are conducting a murder investigation after officers responded to a residence in Floyd County. Around 7:30 Tuesday evening, Jeffersonville Police responded to the Meijer parking lot off Allison Lane in Jeffersonville in reference to a possible suicidal female. After locating and speaking with the female, officers determined a welfare check should be conducted at a residence on East 11th Street in New Albany. New Albany police conducted the welfare check. When officers arrived, they located the homeowner, 68 year old Gary Reid deceased on the floor of his home from an apparent head injury. The female, 26 year old Tirzah Catherine Linson of Clarksville, was transported to Norton Clark Hospital in Clarksville for evaluation, and ISP detectives were called to investigate. As a result of the information gathered in the initial investigation, detectives arrested Linson for murder. Linson was transported from Norton Clark Hospital to the Floyd County Jail without further incident. This investigation is ongoing. An autopsy is scheduled for later this week.

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024

A Southern Indiana lake was recently stocked with over 50,000 new fish. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources East Fork State Fish Hatchery recently completed their annual striped bass and hybrid striped bass stockings. Officials say more than 78,000 striped bass fingerlings and 146,000 hybrid striped bass fingerlings were added to 12 lakes around the state. The stocked fish averaged one to two inches in length. Patoka Lake in Dubois County was among the 12 locations where fish were added. According to the DNR, the lake received 10,000 striped bass and 44,000 hybrids.

Monday, July 8th, 2024

Failure to Use Headlights led to the arrest of an Orange County man on Friday night. Late Friday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in Paoli when they observed a vehicle without headlights or taillights. The Trooper pulled the vehicle over and spoke to the driver of the vehicle. He was identified as 33 year old Adam Antkowiak of French Lick and he showed visible signs of impairment. Antkowiak was transported to the IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. During a search of the vehicle, suspected marijuana and paraphernalia were located. Antkowiak was arrested and transported to the Orange County Jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated With a Passenger Less than 18 in Vehicle, Neglect of a Dependent, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia. Also assisting at the scene were the Paoli Police Department.

A traffic stop in Crawford County on Wednesday night led to the arrest of wanted man. Late Wednesday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on State Road 64 near Eckerty. Police observed a vehicle swerving and crossing the center line multiple times. The Trooper ran a BMV check on the vehicle and the registered owner, identified as 50 year old Andrew Burnett of Georgetown. Police found that he was wanted out of Harrison County. Police stopped the vehicle and spoke to the driver, 46 year old Angie Braunecker of English. Police searched the vehicle and located Marijuana and Paraphernalia. Burnett and Braunecker were arrested and transported to the Crawford County Jail. Burnett faces charges of Stalking, Possession of Marijuana with a Prior, Possession of Paraphernalia and a warrant out of Harrison County. Braunecker was charged with Assisting a Criminal and Possession of Marijuana with a Prior. Also assisting at the scene were the Crawford County Sherriff's Office.

A tip led to the arrest of a man wanted on multiple out of state warrants in Perry County. On Saturday, Police received a tip in reference to the location of a wanted suspect, identified as Donald Cronin. Police set up a perimeter at Cronin's home. The situation would later turn into a standoff between police and Cronin. Police then received assistance from the Indiana State Police SWAT. Police attempted multiple tactics and negotiations while trying to get Cronin to exit the residence. An armored vehicle was then used to gain entry into the residence and take Cronin into custody. He was transported to the Perry County Jail on charges of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia and Multiple out of State Warrants. Assisting at the scene were the Tell City Police Department, Central Dispatch, Indiana State Police, Perry County EMS, and the United States Forest Service.

Monday, July 1st

Sand Hill rd will be closed between the intersection of Co Rd 825 W and 250 N to the top of Sand Hill starting at 10 am today and reopen at 4:00 pm today. It will also be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday in the same location starting at 7:30 am- 4 pm both days and reopening at 4 pm. County highway crews are making improvements in preparation of the new paving that will take place this Fall.

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating after recovering the body of a man from Patoka Lake yesterday evening. Around 6 p.m., Orange County Dispatch was notified that a male had disappeared under the surface of the water near the Painter Creek boat ramp. Department of Natural Resource divers recovered the body at 8:13 p.m. using sonar. The swimmer's identity is being withheld pending family notification. Other assisting agencies included the Orange County Sheriff's Department, Orange County Rural Fire District 1, U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement, IU Health Paoli, and Indiana State Police. Indiana Conservation Officers remind the public to always wear your life jacket when on or around the water.

The Springs Valley Education Foundation is excited to announce the 2024 Springs Valley Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which is set to take place on Friday, July 12th, at the French Lick American Legion banquet hall. This year's honorees are former coach and educator Jim Jones along with basketball SV sports archivist and historian Roy "Junior" Flick. The free event will begin at 6 p.m. with a meet and greet, followed by the induction ceremony at 7 p.m.  Dave Dedrick will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Jim Jones embarked on his professional career in 1959 at Springs Valley High School after graduating from Oolitic High School and Indiana University. Throughout his illustrious career, he also coached at Princeton and Terre Haute North, achieving an impressive 700 wins and earning a place in the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. During his tenure at Springs Valley, Jones secured five sectional titles and one regional title. Notably, he coached former NBA coach and sports analyst Jerry Reynolds and NBA legend Larry Bird. Jones returned to Springs Valley in 2012 to lead the Hawks for two more seasons, culminating in his 700th win and solidifying his legacy as the 10th winningest coach in Indiana basketball history.

Since the consolidation of French Lick and West Baden schools in 1957, Junior Flick has documented every Springs Valley boys' basketball game, and since the 1980s, the varsity girls' games as well. His unwavering dedication over seven decades has preserved the rich history of Springs Valley basketball through extensive scrapbooks and flyers, all without the aid of a computer. Flick's legacy is one of unparalleled commitment, ensuring that the memories and achievements of countless players and teams are forever remembered. n high school Junior made the number 33 popular before Larry Bird did 20 years later. Also his high school coach was Marvin Wood of the famed Milan 'Hoosiers' team.

The Springs Valley Education Foundation Hall of Fame aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions of time, ideas, expertise, or finances to the advancement of academics, arts, or athletics at Springs Valley Community Schools.

Friday, June 28th, 2024

A Hamilton County man was pulled over after police him over for speeding in Orange County. On Wednesday evening, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on State Road 145 near French Lick. Police observed a vehicle speeding above the posted speed limit and also observed the vehicle cross the center line multiple times. Police stopped the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 19 year old Richard Dickerson of Fishers. Dickerson showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to the IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Dickerson was then arrested and transported to the Orange County Jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction and Minor Consumption of Alcohol.

Washington County authorities responded to a Salem hospital after staff reported a domestic violence issue. On Sunday around 3:54 PM, the Washington County Sheriff's Department was alerted to a serious domestic violence incident. A female victim arrived at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Salem, reporting she had been stabbed by her husband at their residence. Law enforcement was immediately notified, and officers from the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and Salem Police Department arrived at the hospital moments later. The victim was treated for a stab wound to the neck, which medical staff confirmed appeared to be inflicted by a knife. The victim recounted the events, stating she had been asleep when her husband forcefully entered their home, threatened her life, and stabbed her with a pocketknife. The suspect, identified as Stephen Marlman, was taken into custody and transported to the Washington County Jail on a charge of one count of Attempted Murder. The investigation is still ongoing.

A Mitchell man was arrested after a traffic stop by police on Wednesday in Dubois County. Police made a traffic stop at the intersection of US 231 and Indian Street at 12:30 a.m. in Jasper on Wednesday. According to Police, 31 year old David Porter of Mitchell violated the terms of his driving conditions. Canine Gater was called to the scene and alerted police to drugs in Porter’s vehicle. During a search, police found meth and other illegal substances. Porter was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a legend drug, and violation of the terms of his driving conditions and transported to the Dubois County Jail.

Wednesday, June 26th, 2024

An Orange County man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court I Judge John M. Plummer III after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. 55 year old Andy Evans of Orleans pled guilty to Causing Death When Operating a Motor Vehicle with an ACE of .15 or More, a Level 4 felony, on July 17th, 2017, as part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. Evans was sentenced to 12 years in the Indiana Department of Correction with 4 years suspended to supervised probation. After violating his terms and conditions of probation, on May 8th, Judge Pummer revoked Evans’ suspended sentence and sentenced Evans to 354 days in the Indiana Department of Correction with credit for 56 actual days in jail. Evans was involved in the fatal accident on June 26th, 2016 around 8:45 p.m. on in the 2600 block Spice Valley Road in Mitchell. Police received a report of a gray 2001 GMC Sierra, driven by Evans, that had hit a tree head-on. Police say the truck was traveling west on Spice Valley Road before it ran off the road for an unknown reason striking several small trees and bushes before hitting another tree head-on. A passenger in the car, 53 year old Donald Parsons died from head injuries and Evans suffered a head injury and airlifted to a hospital by an Air Evac unit.

On Thursday, June 20th the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office released a public safety statement saying, A domestic situation just outside of Holland, in Dubois County, resulted in a male subject, identified as 63 year old David Williamson Jr., allegedly shooting a female victim. The victim is currently in stable condition. On Friday, a concerned citizen believed they saw the truck in the Sugar Ridge Wildlife area in Pike County. Dubois County Sheriff’s Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and the Indiana State Police met at the Sugar Ridge Wildlife Property. Area law enforcement attempted to locate the suspect. A short time later, officers with  Indiana State Police located the suspect’s vehicle and Williamson was discovered deceased inside his vehicle. On Monday, an autopsy was conducted at Lamb-Basham Funeral Home in Oakland City. Dr. James Jacobi ruled the death a suicide.

A Bedford teen was arrested after police found alcoholic beverages in his possession on Monday during a search. Police responded to a request to help juvenile probation officers during a home visit in the 1000 block of 15th Street in Bedford. According to Police, police found alcoholic beverages in the 14 year old male’s room behind an end table in the corner of the bedroom. The juvenile was detained and transported to Dickinson Juvenile Detention Center on a charge of minor in possession of alcohol. The teen was on probation due to a prior offense.

Tuesday, June 25th, 2024

During its June dinner meeting Thursday night, the Orleans Kiwanis Club members hosted and celebrated their recent 2024 Orleans Jr.-Sr. High School Scholarship and Outstanding Athletes, along with their family members and coaches. The outstanding athletes named were Xavier Alston and Tess Price. The scholarship winner was Brooklyn Plocher. The coaches honored were Tom Bradley, Jacob Smith and John Smith. The local Kiwanis Club has been serving the youth of the Orleans Community since 1923.

On Monday, Indiana State Police Detectives from the Bloomington Post arrested a Bedford man on charges related to child molestation. Detectives had identified the suspect as 46 year old Todd Dasenbrock of Bedford and an arrest warrant was served at his residence. He was located and arrested at the residence without incident. Dasenbrock was transported to the Lawrence County Jail where his custody was transferred. On December 15th, 2023, Detectives from the Indiana State Police were notified by the Department of Child Services regarding an allegation of child molestation involving a female child victim, who at the time was 12 years old. Detectives initiated an investigation, and during that investigation identified Dasenbrock as the suspect. Detectives also learned that Dasenbrock allegedly sexually molested the female child victim during a 2-3 year time period. Detectives forwarded all case information to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office and an arrest warrant was issued. Dasenbrock is facing 5 felony charges of Child Molestation.

Indiana Department of Transportation contractor E&B Paving, Inc. is scheduled to begin paving and milling work on State Road 60 west of Salem beginning on or after Saturday, June 29, in Washington County. Work will take place between Smedley Road located approximately two miles east of Campbellsburg and Dog Trot Road located approximately three miles west of Salem. Work is expected to take up to four days, weather permitting. Flagging operations will be utilized while work is in progress. This work is part of a $2.1 million contract awarded to E&B Paving in January 2023. INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, use extra caution and avoid distractions when traveling in and near work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

Monday, June 24th, 2024

A Crawford County woman was arrested on Friday after police received a report of a reckless driver in Orange County. On Friday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was on patrol in the West Baden area. Orange County Dispatch advised officers of a vehicle all over the roadway on State Road 145. Police located the vehicle and made a traffic stop. When police spoke to the driver, who was identified as 39 year old Loretta Hobson of Marengo, they noticed she showed visible signs of impairment. Hobson was transported to IU Health Hospital for a Chemical Test. Hobson was then transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting at the scene were the Orange County Sheriff’s Office & the West Baden Police Department.

A Daviess County man was taken into custody on Saturday night after he was pulled over for speeding in Martin County. On Saturday evening, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was on Patrol in the Loogootee area. Police observed a vehicle speeding above the posted speed limit and made a traffic stop. Police then spoke to the driver, who was identified as 24 year old Dalton English of Washington. English showed visible signs of impairment. English was then taken to the Martin County jail for a chemical test. English was arrested on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

Detectives and crime scene investigators with the Indiana State Police are investigating a shooting that left two dead and one with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Around 6:00 Friday evening, Police responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at a residence on the 3000 block of Mosquito Creek Road in southern Harrison County near the town of Laconia. When responding officers and emergency medical personnel arrived, they encountered 56 year old Marion Young, who had been shot in the arm. Young had run to a nearby residence to report the incident. Young was then transported to University Hospital in Louisville for non-life-threatening injuries. Harrison County officers then attempted to make contact with any individuals located in the residence. Police then discovered a deceased man and woman lying outside the back door of the home. Investigators identified the deceased as 84 year old Donald Weaver and 82 year old Virginia Scofield, the mother of Marion Young. ISP Detectives and crime scene technicians responded to the residence to investigate the incident. Although the investigation is ongoing, Investigators believe Weaver and Marion Young had a verbal argument earlier in the evening. Young stepped outside the residence when Donald Weaver exited the house with a handgun and shot at Young, striking him in the arm. After Young ran to a neighbor’s house to call 911, the investigation revealed more gunshots could be heard coming from the house. Investigators believe that is when Weaver shot and killed Scofield, who stepped outside after the initial shots were fired. Weaver then turned the gun on himself. Harrison County Officers and the Harrison County Coroner’s Office assisted in the investigation.

Wednesday, June 19th, 2024

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces lane closures for State Road 550 in Martin County. Beginning on or around Wednesday, June 26, crews will begin alternating lane closures for State Road 550 near Loogootee. These lane closures will occur between U.S. 50 and U.S. 150. These lane closures will allow for pavement patching on the roadway. Work will occur between 7:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Work is expected to last through July. Traffic will be controlled by a flagger. INDOT urges drivers to slow down and stay alert near crews.

On Sunday police were notified of suspicious activity at a local store in Perry County. Tell City Police responded to the call and learned that the subjects involved had departed before his arrival. Officers reviewed the store’s camera surveillance system and concluded that the subjects made purchases of items that are commonly used for the manufacturing of methamphetamine. The investigation further led police to associate the vehicle to a residence located at 14512 Old State Road 37. Police developed probable cause to obtain a search warrant for the residence. During the execution of the search warrant, officers located multiple items of contraband, firearms, and items suspected to be directly associated with the manufacturing of methamphetamine. Arrested at the residence were 53 year old Paul James and 40 year old Amanda Brown. As police were taking James into custody, he physically resisted. James and Brown were lodged in the Perry County jail on charges of Manufacturing of Methamphetamine while in possession of a firearm, Possession of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Drug Precursors with Intent to Manufacture and while in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe. In addition, James was charged with battery on law enforcement.

Tuesday, June 18th, 2024

An Orange County woman was arrested after police received a report of a Disorderly Person Complaint in West Baden. On Saturday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police and other officers responded to the American Legion in West Baden for a disorderly subject refusing to leave. Witnesses told officers that, 51 year old Nina Suchanek of West Baden had been kicked out of the American Legion earlier due to her being disorderly. Witnesses also said Suchanek came back and started to be disorderly again. Officers spoke to Suchanek and she showed visible signs of impairment. Witnesses and surveillance showed Suchanek driving to the scene. Suchanek was then transported to IU Health Hospital for medical clearance and a Chemical Test. Suchanek was then transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting at the scene were the West Baden & French Lick Police Departments.

The driver who died of an injury related to a car crash from Thursday has been identified. The driver has been identified as 45 year old April Thacker of Jasper. She is a single mother of three children. The incident happened on Thursday around 6:30 p.m. when she was northbound on U.S. 231. She then crossed the center line and struck an oncoming vehicle. Thacker was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle was taken to Memorial Hospital before being transferred to an Evansville hospital by helicopter due to the extent of their injuries. U.S. 231 was closed between County Roads 1000 South and 1100 South for around three hours as the incident was being investigated and the scene cleared. Police are still investigating the crash.

A Lawrence County man was seriously injured after he was involved in a motorcycle accident on Friday in Bedford. Bedford Police were called to a report of a two vehicle accident on Friday at the intersection of John Williams Boulevard and X Street around 5:13 p.m. According to Police, 81 year old  Vernon Gould of Bedford was driving a white Toyota Sienna. He was turning left from John Williams Boulevard onto X Street. At that time, 24 year old Jaden Hawkins of Bedford was traveling west on John Williams Boulevard on his black Harley Davidson Iron 883. Gould failed to yield the right of way when turning in front of Hawkins’ m otorcycle. Hawkins was then thrown from the motorcycle and suffered several injuries, including a broken neck, broken left arm, broken left and right femur, broken left tibia, a punctured lung, and lacerations to his eye and chin. Hawkins was transported by ambulance to IU Health Bedford Hospital and then flown by air ambulance to Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville for treatment. Gould was uninjured and due to the type of accident, submitted to a blood draw. Those results are pending.

Monday, June 17th, 2024

Two people were injured after a motorcycle crash occurred on Thursday in Washington County. On Thursday around 9:49 pm, deputies of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to Saltillo Road, near the intersection of Tarr Road near Campbellsburg. Police were called to the scene in reference to a motorcycle crash with injury. At the scene, investigators observed a 2013 Harley Davidson Road Glide off the west side of Saltillo Road, which had sustained heavy damage. The driver of the motorcycle was identified as 36 year old Darren Scott of Paoli. The passenger was identified as 21 year old Alexis Hendricks of Elnora. Witness statements and evidence at the scene indicated Scott had been traveling southbound on Saltillo Road, when he was met by an oncoming, northbound vehicle, which was left of center. The motorcycle traveled off the right-hand side of the roadway, ejecting both Scott and Hendricks. Scott and Hendricks were both flown to University of Louisville Hospital for serious injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening. Scott and Hendricks were not wearing helmets at the time of the crash. Assisting at the scene were the Washington County Ambulance Service, members of the Campbellsburg Volunteer Fire Department, Air Methods and Air Evac. The crash remains under investigation at this time.

A Dubois County man was arrested after he refused commands while police were assisting with a disabled vehicle in Crawford County. On Wednesday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police and Crawford County Sheriff’s Deputies were directing traffic on State Road 64 for a disabled camper in the roadway. While directing traffic, a vehicle driven by 30 year old Cory Cottingham of Huntingburg, disregarded officer commands to stop. Officers were able to stop Cottingham before colliding with oncoming traffic. Officers had Cottingham step out of the vehicle and he showed visible signs of being impaired. While officers attempted to arrest Cottingham, he resisted and officers had to forcefully place Cottingham into handcuffs. Cottingham refused any orders and was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for medical clearance. Cottingham was then transported to the Crawford County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction, Obstruction and Resisting Law Enforcement.

Friday, June 7th, 2024

An Intoxicated Dubois County man was arrested after threatening officers with a deadly weapon. On Wednesday, the Jasper Police Department responded to a report at West Dewitt School Road in Jasper. The call regarded a male, who was identified as 70 year old Tommy Allen of Birdseye who was intoxicated. Allen was aggressive towards EMS personnel on the scene and also threatened officers while holding a wooden cane. When officers attempted to take him into custody, Allen resisted and was eventually subdued. Police arrested Allen and transported to Memorial Hospital for medical clearance. After his release from the hospital, he was taken to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Intimidation with a Deadly Weapon, Resisting Law Enforcement with a Deadly Weapon, and Public Intoxication.

Two Lawrence County residence were arrested after police were called to a home where they found drugs. On Wednesday around 8:40pm, officers with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office received information that 54 year old Kenneth Cole of Bedford was staying at a residence on Davis Drive. Cole was known to be wanted on two felony warrants through Monroe County. Officers responded to the residence and observed Cole. As he was being taken into custody, officers could smell the odor of marijuana and also observed signs of illegal drug use in plain view. In addition, officers detained 49 year old Angela Root of Bedford. A search warrant was requested and ultimately issued and during the search of the residence, officers located 11 grams of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana cigarettes, drug paraphernalia, and digital scales. Cole was arrested on his Monroe County warrants. Both Cole and Root were also arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine Between 10 and 28 Grams, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. They were both taken to the Lawrence County Jail.

A Bedford man was arrested on drug charges after police were called to a Tuesday crash. Bedford Police responded to an accident at 17th and G Streets on Tuesday, around 5:29 p.m. between a black Ford Fusion and a black Camaro. When police arrived, first responders were on the scene administering first aid to the driver of the Ford Fusion. 47 year old Brandon Super of Bedford was driving the black Camaro. According to police, they detected the odor of marijuana coming from Super and he had poor dexterity and his eyes were bloodshot. Super failed several field sobriety tests. Police searched Supers vehicle where they found a digital scale, a metal smoking device, a glass smoking device with marijuana residue, two THC vapes, a foil package that contained a syringe, a glass container that had THC wax, a marijuana cigarette, and a foil pouch with THC wax. A search of Super’s pockets revealed a THC vape, a baggie of crystal meth, a baggy of 10 pills, a dollar bill bundle containing meth residue, a baggie containing marijuana, a black tube containing marijuana cigarettes, and a smoking device with residue. Police asked Super to submit to a chemical test and he tested positive for opiates, meth, cannabis and amphetamine. Super was detained and transported to IU Health Hospital to be medically cleared. Once cleared, Super was transported to jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated on a controlled substance, possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of a narcotic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia.

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

On May 31st, around 6:05 PM, Officers with the Seymour Police Department responded to the 1200 block of E. Sycamore Rd. in reference to a male individual who grabbed a child and possibly attempted to remove her from the area. When officers arrived at the scene, the mother of the victim said that a male suspect came around the corner and attempted to get her daughter to come to him. When the mother said no, the suspect then grabbed the girl. The mother was able to pull her daughter away from the suspect. The suspect then grabbed the girl’s sunglasses and fled the area on foot. A suspect was developed based on the description given. On Tuesday, investigators with the Seymour Police Department located the suspect and conducted an interview. As a result of the investigation, 28 year old Raul Ortega of Seymour, was arrested for Attempted Kidnapping, Robbery, Theft and Battery.

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

A Lawrence County woman was arrested on Friday after police received a tip of drug activity at a Mitchell home. Around 1:20 a.m. on Friday, Mitchell Police received a tip about possible drug activity in an apartment on West Main Street. When police responded to the apartment, they could smell the odor of marijuana. Police then knocked on the door and 51 year old Stephanie Bickel answered. She denied police entry into the apartment. Bickel then attempted to retreat back into her apartment and police took her into custody. A search warrant was then applied for and granted. During a search of the apartment, police found a glass smoking pipe with meth residue, a small bag of crystal meth, and a bag of marijuana, a partially smoked marijuana cigarette and two glass smoking pipes, one with marijuana and the other with meth residue inside. Bickel was arrested on charges of possession of meth, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

A Bedford man was arrested on a warrant after a two vehicle car crash from February of this year. Police received a report of a two vehicle accident on February 11th around 6:46 p.m. in the 2000 block of South I Street in Bedford. According to police, when they arrived, a member of Shawswick Fire Department said 33 year old Michael Ritchison of Bedford had admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the collision. Ritchison was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for treatment of his injuries and also a blood draw in which he consented to. On April 9th, police received the toxicology report and it confirmed Ritchison’s blood-alcohol level was .067. He also had controlled substances and methamphetamine in his system. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Ritchison was arrested on Thursday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, OWI endangerment, and OWI controlled substance.

Tuesday, June 4th, 2024

Indiana State Police detectives arrested a Fredericksburg man Monday morning following a physical altercation and shooting in rural Washington County. Around 4:30 Monday morning, Officers from the Salem Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff's Department responded to a 911 call reporting a person suffering from a gunshot wound. The person was stopped on State Road 56 near East Wallace Lane just east of Salem. When officers arrived, they found 51 year old Jed Elliott behind the wheel of a pickup truck and suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the arm. A female friend accompanied Elliott in the truck. EMS quickly transported Elliott to University Hospital in Louisville for non-life-threatening injuries and ISP detectives and Crime Scene Investigators were called to assume the investigation. Detectives responded and during the investigation, learned that Elliott pulled behind a shed at his residence in the early morning hours. Tyler Dylan Gay of Fredericksburg was also at that residence. Investigators believe Gay then walked from the residence armed with a handgun and confronted Elliott. The two men were then involved in a physical altercation, during which Gay fired the pistol, striking Elliott in the arm. After being shot, Elliott and his friend fled the scene before stopping on the side of State Road 56 and calling 911. As a result of the investigation, Gay was arrested for Aggravated Battery. Officers transported Gay to the Washington County Jail without incident. This case is still under investigation.

The Orleans Town Council met briefly in a special session at Town Hall on Friday. During the meeting, Town Clerk Robert Henderson officially declared Jim Lindsey the new Orleans Town Marshal. Lindsey, who officially began his duties on June 1st, replaces Richard Dixon, who retired at the end of May after serving as Marshal for the last nine years. In related matters, the council also approved Lindsey’s recommendation for Roy McFarland to serve as Chief Deputy Marshal under Lindsey. Chris Hubbard was hired as a new SRO/Dep. Marshal replacing Dustin Wang, who recently resigned from the position with the West Baden police department.

Monday, June 3rd, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested after police pulled him over for driving left of center. On Friday afternoon, A trooper with the Indiana State Police observed a vehicle drive left of center. Police also found that the vehicle's registered owner was suspended. The Trooper stopped the vehicle and confirmed the driver was the registered owner. The driver was identified as 53 year old Christopher Banet of Paoli and according to police, showed visible signs of impairment. Banet was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Banet was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior Conviction.

A Kentucky man was arrested after police observed him commit multiple traffic violations in Perry County. Early Friday morning, Tell City Police stopped a vehicle for speeding, driving left of center, and failing to stop at a stop sign on State Road 66 in Tell City. An Indiana State Police Trooper then arrived to assist with the driver, who was identified as 30 year old Steven Dunn of Hawesville, KY. When police spoke to Dunn, they noticed that he showed visible signs of impairment. Dunn was transported to Perry Memorial Hospital for a chemical test and medical clearance. Dunn was arrested and transported to the Perry County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

Friday, May 31st, 2024

An ongoing drug investigation led to the arrest of a Jasper man on multiple felony drug charges. Narcotics Detectives located methamphetamine, marijuana, schedule IV controlled substances, a hypodermic syringe, and multiple items of paraphernalia. During the early morning hours on Wednesday, an ongoing narcotics investigation into a separate case led to the application and execution of a search warrant for the residence of 43 year old Lucas Hildenbrand in Jasper. During the execution of the search warrant, narcotics detectives located 41.0 grams of methamphetamine, over 113 grams of marijuana, over 17 grams of a Schedule IV Controlled Substance, 1 hypodermic syringe and several items of drug paraphernalia. All items were seized and secured for evidence. Hildenbrand was taken into custody and transported to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, 2 counts of Dealing in a Schedule IV Controlled Substance, Dealing in Marijuana, Unlawful Possession of a Syringe, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Unlawful Possession or Use of a Legend Drug, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia.

Two teenagers were arrested after police received a report of two teens breaking into vehicles. On Wednesday, around 2:59 a.m., Bedford Police responded to the 1000 block of O Street after they received a report of two male juveniles breaking into vehicles in an apartment complex parking lot. According to the caller, the males were going through a maroon Dodge Ram truck when she confronted them and the males then took off on foot. Police found the males running north on N Street toward 16th Street. The 17 year old teen had a vape, $17, a cell phone and smelled of alcohol. The 16 year old male was located and also smelled of alcohol. Both males were transported to the Bedford Police Department. According to police, one of the teens admitted to stealing chewing gum from a vehicle and admitted both had been drinking. The other boy denied doing anything wrong. Both teens are facing charges of unauthorized entry to a vehicle, theft, and illegal consumption. One is facing resisting arrest by fleeing.

Thursday, May 30th, 2024

The National Weather Service confirmed that an EF-2 tornado touched down in southern Knox County on Sunday night. The tornado, with peak wind speeds around 112 mph, was about 50 yards wide and traveled approximately 12 miles from Decker to two miles east of Monroe City. It damaged trees, a barn, and moved a school bus several yards. Later, it damaged a garage near Monroe City before lifting near the White River on the Knox-Daviess County line. This is the third confirmed tornado in the Wabash Valley from Sunday's storms. Another EF-2 tornado impacted western Clay County, Ill., and an EF-1 tornado touched down in Lawrence County, Ill. The storm damage in Daviess and Martin counties, from near Montgomery to West Boggs Lake, was determined to be caused by straight-line winds. The NWS said trees were knocked down from east of Washington and north of Montgomery to Cannelburg to northeast of West Boggs Lake. Hundreds of trees were downed around the lake. Wind gusts from the storm were estimated to be in the 60-80 mph range.

A Bloomington man was arrested after his vehicle was pulled over for an inoperable headlight in Bedford. On Friday, Police were on patrol at 19th Street and Washington Avenue in Bedford when he noticed a black Toyota SUV traveling south. Police noticed the vehicle had one headlight working. The vehicle was pulled over near the intersection of 22nd Street and Washington Avenue. Police made contact with the driver, 40 year old Justin Dunn of Bloomington and a female passenger. Police issued Dunn a citation for the non working headlight and then requested permission to search the SUV in which Dunn denied the request. A canine was called to the scene and alerted on the driver’s side of the vehicle. In the vehicle, police found two plastic baggies containing crystal meth. Also found was a .380 ACP Smith & Wesson handgun loaded with a ten-round magazine. Police then learned the handgun had been stolen in Johnson County. Dunn was arrested on charges of possession of a stolen firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm. The female passenger was released.

Tuesday, May 28th, 2024

A North Carolina man was arrested after police spotted him driving over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 64 in Spencer County. On Saturday afternoon, a member of the Indiana State Police observed a motorcycle speeding on I-64. Radar confirmed the vehicle was going 133 mph and Troopers attempted to stop the motorcycle. As Troopers began the chase, the motorcycle exited onto US 231. Troopers stopped pursuing the motorcycle on US 231 near State Road 68. A Spencer County Sheriff Deputy observed the motorcycle turn into Lincoln State Park. Trooper Trey Lytton located the motorcycle and spoke to the driver, identified as 20 year old Jayden Little of Statesville North Carolina. Little was arrested and transported to the Spencer County jail on charges of Resisting Law Enforcement with a vehicle and Reckless Driving.

On Thursday around 7:37 PM, patrol officers with the Seymour Police Department responded to the 2000 block of E. Tipton St. in reference to a vehicle crash. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered that a driver had left the roadway while traveling West on E. Tipton St. and struck two parked vehicles. When officers checked on the male driver, they found he was unresponsive. Officers began life saving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived on scene. The driver was then taken to Schneck Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 54 year old William Miller of Norman. The cause of death is pending an autopsy and toxicology. The Seymour Police Department were assisted by the Seymour Fire Department and Jackson County EMS.

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024

The Town of Orleans Utilities are happy to report that Orleans had excellent drinking water again in 2023. Rigorous testing revealed that the drinking water again surpasses all federal, state and local regulations. Copies of the 2023 Water Quality Report are now available upon request from the Orleans Town Offices located at 161 E. Price Ave., or by simply visiting the town’s website at town.orleans.in.us. Water customers are encourage to review their water quality report and contact the Orleans Water Department at 865-2539 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Monday thru Friday with any comments or questions regarding the report.

A Wednesday night crash sent two people to the hospital in Washington County. On Wednesday around 5:39 pm, emergency services personnel responded to the area of 7636 N. State Road 135 in Salem, in reference to a single motor vehicle roll-over crash with injuries and entrapment. Once on the scene, Deputies determined that 57 year old Timothy Reynolds of Seymour, was traveling north on N. State Road 135. Reynolds was driving a 2002 GMC Sierra pickup truck, when he drove off the east edge of the roadway. Reynolds over corrected his vehicle, causing his vehicle to go into a skid and travel off the west side of the roadway, down an embankment and roll over onto the passenger side before coming to a rest. Two passengers in the pickup truck had to be extricated by members of Monroe and Jefferson Township Volunteer Fire Departments. Reynolds refused treatment at the scene. Passenger 77 year old Roxie Reynolds was transported by Washington County Ambulance Service to University of Louisville Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Passenger 82 year old George Reynolds was transported to St. Vincent Hospital by the Washington County Ambulance Service for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. State Road 135 N. was closed for a brief period of time.

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024

A Dubois County woman was arrested after police found drugs in her vehicle while she was picking up her kids at an Elementary school. On Monday afternoon, while Jasper Elementary School was releasing children to the school pickup line. A school staff member in the pickup line noticed the odor of marijuana coming from a vehicle. School staff notified an officer, who was in the pickup line picking up his children. Police located the vehicle and made contact with the adult occupants. Both occupants of the vehicle were detained, including the driver, identified as 41 year old Sylvia Hadi of Jasper. During a search of the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, controlled substances, and paraphernalia were located. The vehicle was also in deplorable condition with extreme filth, beer cans, and some diapers with feces lying around. Hadi was arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Neglect of a Dependent, 2 counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. Indiana Department of Child Services arrived and made arrangements for the 5 children that were inside the vehicle.

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

Three Orleans Seniors were recognized for their outstanding achievements from the Kiwanis club last Friday morning. Since 1923 the Kiwanis Club of Orleans has been proudly serving the youth of the Orleans Community. They presented the 2024 Kiwanis Scholarship award to Brooklyn Plocher. Tessa Price and Xavier Alston were the receipts of the 2024 Kiwanis Club of Orleans Outstanding Senior Athletes Award. All three OHS graduates were presented with their awards during the Annual Seniors Awards Ceremonies held last Friday morning.

A Bedford teen was taken into custody after he allegedly stole a cell phone and stole money from her Cashapp. Bedford Police received the report after a woman came to the Bedford Police Department around 2:00 p.m. on Friday to report her old cell phone had been stolen and someone used her Cash App to send $50 to another person. The female told police she was out of town when she received a notification on her new cell phone someone had used her CashApp. When she returned home, she found that her old cell phone was missing. On Saturday, she received notifications of pictures and videos on her new cell phone with a 16 year old male teen of whom she was related to. In the photos and videos, the teen was seen with a large amount of money, various firearms, smoking an electronic vape pen and a baggie of what police believed was marijuana. The female then filed criminal charges against the teen. On Sunday, the woman reported the teen was at her home in the 800 block of Lincoln Avenue. When police arrived, they found teen and the stolen phone. The teen was arrested on theft and fraud charges.

Monday, May 20th, 2024

On Saturday, around 10:35am, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a shooting incident in the 500 block of Sunny Acres Lane near Bedford. Police arrived to find that two males had suffered gunshot wounds. The two victims were transported to IU Health in Bedford. 44 year old Johnnie Grubb IV of Bedford was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The second victim, a 49 year old male from Mitchell was flown to a Louisville Hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. Deputies quickly gathered information that revealed at least two males had fled from the scene in a vehicle. Detectives were able to determine there was one male, identified as 36 year old Timothy Helton of Bloomington, was responsible for the shooting. The second male with Helton was identified as 29 year old Christopher Cecil of Bloomington. Police tracked Helton to a residence on in Monroe County where they observed him leave in a different vehicle. Police conducted a traffic stop and took Helton into custody without incident. Investigators determined that Helton and Cecil arrived at the Sunny Acres Lane address shortly before the shooting occurred. A disagreement occurred and Helton allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot multiple rounds, striking Grubb and the second victim. Helton and Cecil then immediately fled the scene. Probable cause was established for the arrest of Helton for Murder and Attempted Murder. In addition, Cecil was located and arrested on an outstanding felony probation warrant out of Monroe County as well as a new offense of Possession of Methamphetamine in Greene County.

Friday, May 17th, 2024

Police were called to a fire that involved a tractor trailer on Wednesday in Washington County. On Wednesday around 11:44 am, emergency personnel responded to the area of State Road 60 East and Blue River bridge near Salem in reference to a tractor trailer fire. The driver was identified as Robert Atherton of Martinsville. Atherton advised the deputies that the rear trailer tires and the rear of the trailer became engulfed in flames. Atherton said he pulled over and unhooked the Kenworth tractor from the trailer, which was full of sawdust and also on fire. Members of the Salem City Fire Department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. Both lanes of State Road 60 were closed for nearly five hours.

A Dubois County man was arrested after police were called to a home for a domestic incident. Around 8:15 PM on Thursday, Police were dispatched to 664 Church Street in Jasper after receiving a report of domestic violence. Upon arriving on scene, officers made contact with the female victim and began an investigation into the incident. Police were able to establish that the male, who was identified as 38 year old Christopher Mullins of Jasper, had battered his wife in their driveway. Mullins was arrested and taken to the Dubois County Jail on a Charge of Domestic Battery.

Thursday, May 16th, 2024

There is less than a week before Hoosier Hills Credit Union members have an opportunity to vote on a merger. Hoosier Hills Credit Union and Centra Credit Union are considering a possible merger. Hoosier Hills and Centra Credit Union will decide whether the merger will happen in two separate voting processes. Hoosier Hills Credit Union primary account holders are encouraged to vote in person. The special meeting will be at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22nd, and you can cast your vote in person at the Bedford Annex Lobby, which is located next to the Bedford Service Center at 630 Lincoln Avenue in Bedford. If passed, the merger would occur on July 1st, followed by an 18-to 24-month integration period.

On Tuesday, Indiana State Police detectives arrested a Hardinsburg man on for Child Molestation and other related charges following a four-day investigation. The investigation began on May 10th when an employee from a Harrison County school contacted the Indiana Department of Child Services to report possible sexual child abuse to one of their students. A DCS Family Case Manager contacted Detectives from the Indiana State Police, who worked alongside DCS personnel. The investigation included a sexual assault forensic examination at a local hospital and a forensic interview conducted at a local child advocacy center. Detectives also obtained a search warrant for a Hardinsburg residence as part of the investigation. ISP detectives and crime scene investigators served the warrant on Tuesday. As a result of the investigation and search, Detectives believed illegal sexual contact occurred between the child and 31 year old Michael Allen Richardson of Hardinsburg. Police arrested Richardson at his residence following the search and transported him to the Washington County Jail without incident. Richardson is facing two counts of Child Molesting, Incest and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

A Jackson County man was injured after his vehicle ran off the roadway in Washington County. On Tuesday morning, around 9:41 am, Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department responded to North State Road 135, near the intersection of Spurgeon Road just north of Salem for a single motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival, Deputies observed a white 2006 Dodge Ram truck, off the west side of North State Road 135, resting against a utility pole. The driver was identified as 76 year old Jimmy Dobbs of Vallonia. The driver’s statement and evidence at the scene indicated Dobbs was northbound when he drove through a pool of rainwater, causing the vehicle to travel into the opposite lane of travel, off the west side of the roadway, down an embankment and roll over before coming to a stop. Dobbs was transported to University of Louisville Hospital for complaint of shoulder pain and minor bleeding. Also assisting at the scene were members of the Salem Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service.

Tuesday, May 14th, 2024

A man was injured after his lawnmower was involved in a crash in Washington County. Around 6:38pm on Friday, Washington County Deputies and emergency response personnel were dispatched to the area near 4630 Mount Zion Church Road in Pekin in reference to a motor vehicle accident involving a riding lawnmower. 19 year old Carol Sullivan of Pekin was traveling north on Mount Zion Church Road in a 2013 Ford Fusion. Sullivan came to a hillcrest when 67 year old Terry Wells also of Pekin was on his lawnmower in the roadway turning around. The drivers' statements and evidence at the scene indicated Sullivan attempted to stop but was unable to in time to avoid the collision. Wells was transported by the Washington County Ambulance Service to University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Assisting at the scene were the Washington County Ambulance Service and Pierce-Pole Volunteer Fire Department and Franklin Volunteer Fire Department.

A Washington County woman was injured after a two vehicle collision occurred on Thursday. Around 5:58pm on Thursday, Washington County Deputies and emergency response personnel were dispatched to the area of 6126 E Hurst Road in Pekin in reference to a motor vehicle accident with injuries. 60 year old Betty Rogers of Pekin was traveling west on Hurst Road in a 1999 Buick Century. 19 year old Kiera Arvin of Borden was traveling east on Hurst Road in a 2011 Ford Fusion when the vehicles collided head on. The drivers' statements and evidence at the scene indicated Rogers was traveling left of center. Rogers was transported to University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Arvin declined medical treatment on scene. All parties were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident. Washington County Ambulance Service, AirMethods, Pierce-Polk Volunteer Fire Department and Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department assisted at the scene.

A Bedford man was arrested Saturday night after police initiated a traffic stop in Lawrence County. Police pulled over a vehicle 16th and S Streets on Saturday night in Bedford. According to police, the driver, who was identified as 49 year old Warner Beauregard of Bedford, smelled of alcohol, his eyes were red and glassy, and his speech was slurred. Police also noted that Beauregard was staggering when asked to exit the vehicle. Police conducted several field sobriety tests on Beauregard and he failed those tests. During a preliminary breath test, his blood-alcohol level was 0.155. During the stop, Beauregard allegedly admitted to drinking alcohol and said he was not okay to drive. An open container of alcohol was also found in his vehicle. Beauregard was arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI with a prior conviction and transported to the Lawrence County Jail. Police then learned Beauregard was convicted on two prior convictions for operating a vehicle while intoxicated in Morgan County.

Monday, May 13th, 2024

A Dubois County man was arrested after police conducted a traffic stop for a defective headlight. Early Sunday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police observed a vehicle with a burnt out headlight on State Road 231 in Jasper. Police pulled the vehicle over and made contact with the driver, who was identified as 23 year old Dallas Lueken of Jasper. Lueken showed visible signs of impairment and he was taken to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Lueken was then arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. The Jasper Police Department also assisted at the scene.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure for State Road 56 near French Lick. Beginning on or around Monday, May 20, crews will begin daily road closures on State Road 56 near French Lick in Dubois and Orange counties. These daily closures will occur between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays. Closures will allow for a chip seal and fog seal project. Work is expected to take two weeks to complete, depending on the weather. The official detour for this closure is State Road 545 to State Road 164 to State Road 145. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure.

Friday, May 10th, 2024

Indiana State Police are investigating recent ATM thefts in the area. On Wednesday, around 3:02 am the Spencer County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call about an ATM that was stolen from the Dale area. Preliminary investigation revealed a 2001 Ford F-350 was stolen from Dubois County and used in the crime. The suspects hooked heavy tow chains to the ATM and pulled it off the pedestal. The suspects broke into the ATM and emptied the cash. The suspects then fled in a dark-colored SUV. Detectives said this ATM theft was the same method used in the ATM theft in Saint Meinrad in September 2023. This case is still under investigation. Anyone with information, are asked to contact the Indiana State Police Jasper Post at 812-482-1441. 

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police gained information he was dealing drugs. The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office had received information that 54 year old Teddy Eggers of Bedford was involved in dealing large quantities of methamphetamine. Officers launched an investigation into the allegations. The investigation resulted in the arrest of Eggers on Wednesday evening. Through the investigation, police obtained information that led to them seeking a search warrant. A search warrant was issued on Eggers's residence in the 1400 block of 22nd Street. On Wednesday, around 11:30pm, Police executed the search warrant. During the search of the residence, officers located approximately 27 grams of methamphetamine, mushrooms, THC wax, digital scales, baggies, smoking devices, and items associated with the dealing of drugs. Eggers was arrested and booked into the Lawrence County Jail on charges of Dealing Methamphetamine Over 10 Grams, Possession of Methamphetamine Between 10 and 28 Grams, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Possession of Hypodermic Syringes, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police received a 911 call about an erratic driver in Bedford. Bedford Police Dispatch received a 911 call reporting an erratic driver in a dark blue pickup traveling north on State Road 37 near the intersection of 16th Street in Bedford. Police found the pickup in the Long John Silver’s parking lot. The truck was found to not have a license plate. Police then initiated a traffic stop in the McDonalds parking lot. According to police, the driver, identified as 27 year old Dylan Sipes of Bedford appeared to be lethargic, had slow speech and poor manual dexterity. Police conducted field sobriety tests on Sipes and he failed those tests. Police then conduced an onsite test for drugs in which he tested positive for meth and amphetamine. Police then detained Sipes and he was taken to the Bedford Police Department. At the police station, Sipes allegedly admitted he had smoked meth the night before. A warrant for a blood draw was requested and granted. Sipes was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital and then taken to jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, OWI under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of meth, unlawful possession of a syringe, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was issued a citation for OWI refusal.

Thursday, May 9th, 2024

The Town of Shoals will have their Town-Wide Clean-Up Days on May 10th – 12th. Any old or unwanted items can be placed inside the dumpster. Residents are asked not to place items on the ground around the dumpster. Once the dumpster is full, unwanted items should not be dropped off. Tires, construction waste, paint, batteries, any other chemical, and hazardous or harmful material should not be disposed of in the dumpster.

Indiana Department of Transportation maintenance crews have updated a plan to begin chip seal operations on U.S. 150 in Harrison and Washington Counties on or after Monday May 13. Chip seal operations were previously scheduled for Wednesday, May 8. Crews will be active between State Road 66 and State Road 135 near Fredericksburg and Palmyra. Motorists should expect lane closures and flagging while work is in progress. Chip seal work typically lasts three to four days per location depending upon weather. INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, avoid distractions, and consider worker safety when traveling through active work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

A Crawford County man was arrested after he was pulled over for speeding Tuesday night in Dubois County. Late Tuesday night, A trooper with the Indiana State Police observed a vehicle speeding on State Road 164 near Celestine. Police stopped the vehicle and made contact with the driver, identified as 32 year old Spenser Karl of Taswell. Karl showed visible signs of impairment and was taken to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Karl was arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Assisting at the scene were the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office.

Wednesday, May 8th 2024

Two men returning from a fishing trip were arrested on Saturday after police pulled them over for an equipment violation. Police were patrolling State Road 37 near US 50 West in Mitchell around 1:55 a.m. when they spotted a van with a faulty license plate light and no license plate. Police also noticed the vehicle drift over the fog line. Police then initiated a traffic stop. The driver identified as 58 year old William Lamb of Seymour said he and his passenger, 28 year old Cody Tapp were returning from a fishing trip at Patoka Lake. According to police, both men appeared to be nervous and they could smell alcohol on Lamb’s breath. Lamb refused to participate in field sobriety tests. Police requested a warrant for a blood draw and Lamb was taken to IU Health Bedford Hospital. During a search of the vehicle, police found a metal grinder with marijuana inside and a baggy of marijuana. A tray containing marijuana was also found in the vehicle. A total of 28 grams of marijuana was found inside the vehicle. Lamb was arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Tapp is facing charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Tuesday, May 7th, 2024

An Oolitic woman was arrested on Friday after she almost struck a utility police. Bedford Police were following behind a car approaching the intersection of 12th Street. The driver abruptly crossed the double yellow line and jerked back into the lane of travel. The driver then swerved again, nearly hitting a utility pole on 12th Street between L and M Street. Police then stopped the vehicle around 2:11 a.m. at M Street and Fairgrounds Lane. According to police, the driver, 46 year old Kaci Hanks of Oolitic smelled of alcohol, had glassy eyes, and poor manual dexterity. Hanks failed several field sobriety tests and nearly fell over after completing the test. A preliminary breath test was administered and a blood alcohol level of 0.232 percent. She was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw and once medically cleared, she was transported to jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI endangerment.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police found over 40 grams of crystal meth at a home in Bedford. On Wednesday, police stopped a vehicle and learned that the female driver had recently purchased meth from 48 year old Robbie Leatherman of Bedford. With that information, Bedford Police applied for and were granted a search warrant at an apartment in the 1000 block of 16th Street. Officers conducted a search and found crystal meth in a bedroom that belonged to Leatherman. Police obtained a second search warrant for another apartment in the area and found a black crystal meth and marijuana in plain view. Officers seized seven baggies containing crystal meth that totaled 41 grams. Police also found another baggie of crystal meth, containing four grams of meth, a metal grinder with marijuana residue, a baggie of marijuana, a partially burnt marijuana cigarette, a baggy of marijuana, Fentanyl, smoking devices. In the first apartment police found a baggy of meth, two tin containers with crystal meth, a pill bottle containing meth residue, a metal tin containing two marijuana cigarettes and a container with meth residue inside. Leatherman was arrested on charges of dealing and possession of meth over 28 grams.

Monday, May 6th, 2024

Indiana Department of Transportation maintenance crews plan to begin chip seal operations on U.S. 150 in Harrison and Washington Counties on or after Wednesday, May 8. Crews will be active between State Road 66 and State Road 135 near Fredericksburg and Palmyra. Motorists should expect lane closures and flagging while work is in progress. Chip seal work typically lasts three to four days per location depending upon weather. During operations, existing pavement is coated with liquid asphalt, which seals cracks and provides waterproof protection. This extends the service life of the roadway and lowers maintenance costs. Once the seal coat is complete, loose aggregate is applied and swept from the road. After a curing period, crews will return to fog seal the new driving surface and apply pavement markings. INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, avoid distractions, and consider worker safety when traveling through active work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024

A Bedford teen was arrested after she got into a fight with her sister and mother. Police were called to a home in the 2000 block of F Street on Monday. Police arrived at the residence around 6:21 p.m., where the teen’s mother reported her 14 year-old daughter had been hitting her and her 6 year old sister. The mother also told police that the teen left the house, violating her home detention. According to the mother, the teen and her sister had gotten into a verbal altercation that turned physical with the teen grabbing the younger daughter and causing her to sufferer a scratch on her wrist. The fighting continued with the teen grabbing her mother by the neck. She then threw a hard plastic toy at her mom, striking her in the left eyebrow. The teen then fled the house. The teen was then arrested and transported her to the Bedford Police Department where Juvenile probation was contacted. The teen is facing two counts of domestic battery and escape from unlawful detention.

Wednesday, May 1st, 2024

The Orange County Economic Development has announced applications are currently being accepted for the Coding/IT Academy. This will be a 10-week program to help Hoosiers learn in-demand tech skills, enabling them to receive higher-paying and prevailing-wage job opportunities. The 2024 Summer Session prepares participants to pass the AWS Cloud Practitioner Exam. Code/IT is a partnership between The Mill in Monroe County, Regional Opportunity Initiatives, and Ivy Tech Bloomington. The classes will be held at the Orange County Economic Development Partnership office, which is located at 505 South Maple Street in French Lick. The instruction of classes will be live-streamed from Ivy Tech professors in Bloomington, Indiana. This course is being offered at no cost and Code/IT Academy will cover the cost of the certification exam. The coursework and training cover: Amazon Web Services Cloud Practitioner, web development, IT administration, and more. Registration ends May 31st, 2024. To register please visit the codeitacademy.org website. For more information please visit the Orange County Economic Development Partnership website.

A lengthy drug dealing investigation by the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office concluded with the arrest of a Lawrence County man. The Sheriff’s Office received information in February that 47 year old Jeremiah Bridges of Bedford was involved in dealing large quantities of methamphetamine and other drugs in, and around, Lawrence County. Police then launched an investigation and over the course of the next two months, officers established probable cause into the dealing allegations. On Friday evening, around 9:00pm, Police observed Bridges operating a vehicle on Gunsmith School Road, near Eastern Heights Addition. A traffic stop was conducted and the during the course of the traffic stop, officers detected the odor of marijuana and completed a search of Bridges’ vehicle. They located mushrooms, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. A female passenger, 34 year old Brittany Mott of Freetown, was also taken into custody. At the Lawrence County Jail, Mott was found to possess a small amount of marijuana and two THC vape smoking devices that she allegedly was attempting to smuggle into the jail. Police applied for a search warrant for Bridges’ residence in the 100 block of Eastern Heights Drive. During execution of the search warrant, officers located additional drugs and items associated with the dealing of drugs. Bridges and Mott were arrested on several drug charges.

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024

On Saturday night, officers with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a deceased male in a rural area of Winegar Road, near the Lawrence/Orange County line. The location was just inside of Orange County. The Indiana State Police and Orange County Sheriff’s Office were contacted. Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased male, Timothy Tolbert of Mitchell, was fishing with a female from Lawrence County. The couple were approached by an acquaintance, 46 year old Homer Smith of Mitchell. An altercation between Tolbert and Smith occurred, with Smith striking Tolbert in the head with his fist multiple times. Smith fled the scene after the altercation. Tolbert succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Orange County Coroner. Smith was located at his mother's residence by the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office. During the investigation, Detectives determined enough probable cause existed to arrest Smith for Murder. Smith was transported to the Orange County jail where he is being held without bond. An autopsy will be scheduled at a later date and the case is still under investigation.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure and lane restrictions for Dubois County. Beginning on or around Saturday, May 4, crews will close U.S. 231 between State Road 64 and 10 th  street in Huntingburg. This closure will allow for new drainage structure installation. Work is expected to take a day to complete, depending on the weather. The official detour for this closure is State Road 64 to State Road 162. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure. Following this closure, crews will begin lane restrictions on U.S. 231 in the same location. One lane of traffic will be closed to traffic between S.R. 64 and 10 th  street during working hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. These alternating lane closures will allow for road and drainage improvements in the area. This phase of the project is expected to last through the end of June.

Monday, April 29th, 2024

Some 80 entries participated in last Saturday’s 54 th Annual Orleans Dogwood Festival Parade.  Although windy, the weather was warm and dry in “Indiana’s Dogwood Capital”.  A very large crowd of spectators were on hand all and along historic Maple Street, perhaps one of the largest crowds in a number of years.  Parade results include:

Chairman’s Choice

Caterpillar Corner Child Care

Float Winner

Kirk Vet Service

Classic Car

Artie Grimaldo

1953 Chevy 2-door Sedan

Walking Unit

Orleans Jr-Sr High School Band

Misc Category Winner

Shon Belcher

1964 Ford Galaxy

Farm Winner

Chuck Myers

1939 John Deere Tractor

Horse Category

Danny Phillips

Late Wednesday night, the Spencer County Sheriff’s Office received a call for a wrong-way driver on Interstate 64. Multiple officers responded to the area to search for the vehicle. Police located the vehicle near the 71 mile marker traveling west in the eastbound lanes. Police initiated a traffic stop on the driver, identified as 33 year old Lauren Jones of Corydon. She was taken into custody by police. Jones became uncooperative and combative during the arrest. Jones bit an officer, requiring them to seek medical attention. Jones was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for medical clearance and then to the Dubois County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior, Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle, Battery on a Police Officer, Obstruction of Justice, Resisting Law Enforcement, Criminal Mischief, Disorderly Conduct, Reckless Driving and Obstructing Traffic.

Thursday, April 25th, 2024

Lawrence Superior Court I Judge John M. Plummer III sentenced a Bedford mom on Tuesday, after a Jury found her Guilty on February 2nd of Neglect of a Dependent Causing Death. 33-year-old Cheyenne Hill of Bedford received a sentence of Thirty Years executed in the Indiana DOC. It took a jury two hours of deliberation to be found guilty of child neglect causing death, a Level 1 felony. Hill was found responsible for the death of her 20 month old daughter, Elli. Hill was taken into custody back in September of 2023 after she was located in Michigan. She was then transported back to Lawrence County to face charges. On November 23rd, 2022, around 12:16 p.m., police were requested to IU Health Bedford Hospital by a Department of Child Services caseworker, who reported that Elli had been flown by a medical helicopter to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis. The baby had suffered a brain bleed, a broken collar bone, and had head and facial bruising. She also had a swollen and deformed head with bruising to her forehead and both sides of her face. She was pronounced dead three days later after showing no brain activity. A post-mortem examination concluded the manner of death was a homicide and that the injuries would have occurred after November 21, 2022.The cause of death was found blunt force trauma to the head.

Two juveniles were arrested after police were called to a Bedford playground. On Friday, around 7:35 p.m., Bedford Police were requested to the playground area of Thornton Park after they received a report of two intoxicated juveniles climbing on the playground equipment. When police arrived at the playground they located the two females walking near the tennis courts. Officers could smell the alcohol on the teens. Police also found them unsteady on their feet and had red blood-shot eyes. Both denied they had been drinking and they submitted to a breath test. One had a blood-alcohol content of 0.069 percent, the other 0.108 percent. Both were detained and transported to the Bedford Police Department on a charge of illegal consumption. Lawrence County Juvenile Probation was contacted, and the teens were released to their parents with a promise to appear in court on May 24 at 9:00 a.m.

On Tuesday, Detectives from the Indiana State Police began investigating the death of an inmate that was being held in the Jackson County Jail in Brownstown. The initial investigation by Detectives indicated that around 5:15 pm Tuesday, jail staff responded to a holding cell to check on the inmate who has been identified as 35 year old Antonio Fox of Jackson, Mississippi.  While the jail staff was speaking with him, Fox collapsed inside the cell.  Jail personnel began administering life saving measures to Fox, who was the only occupant of the cell.  Jackson County EMS was called and arrived on scene to provide further medical care. Fox was transported to Schneck Medical Center in Seymour where he was pronounced dead.  The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department requested Indiana State Detectives respond to investigate the death of the inmate. The investigation remains ongoing.  An autopsy is scheduled to be performed in Hamilton County, Ohio. Indiana State Police Detectives have been assisted in the investigation by the Jackson County Coroner’s Office.

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

A Complaint of an Intoxicated Driver Led to the arrest of an Orange County man for driving under the influence. On Saturday night, Police received information of an intoxicated driver in Orange County. A trooper with the Indiana State Police located the vehicle on State Road 56 in French Lick and officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 62 year old Albert Saunders of West Baden. Saunders showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Saunders was then arrested and transported to the Orange County jail. There were two juvenile passengers and an adult in the vehicle who were transported to their residence in French Lick. Saunders is facing a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Passenger under 18. The West Baden Police Department also assisted at the scene.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after he failed to stop at a red light in Orange County on Sunday night. Late Sunday night, An Indiana State Trooper observed a vehicle fail to stop at a red traffic light at the intersection of State Road 56 and State Road 145. Police stopped the vehicle and made contact with the driver, who was identified as 40 year old Joshua Troutman of Mitchell. Troutman showed visible signs of impairment and he refused a chemical test. Troutman was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting were the West Baden Police Department.

A theft case led to the arrest of a Crawford County man on Thursday. On Thursday, Deputies with the Crawford County Sheriff's Department were working a theft case that occurred in Marengo. During the investigation, police learned where the stolen property was located and with the help of Indiana Conversation Officers, retrieved the stolen property. While returning the stolen property police noticed 55 year old Vernon Carrol of Milltown pull up next to him. Police knew Vernon had an arrest warrant out of Washington County. Police noticed a digital scale in Vernon's truck in plain view. K9 Remi was deployed to perform a free air sniff. K9 Remi indicated to the odor of narcotics being in the vehicle. After a search was conducted, they located what is suspected of being marijuana and 13.9 grams of methamphetamine. Vernon was then transported to the Crawford County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Maintaining a Common Nusiance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia and the Warrant out of Washington County.

Friday, April 19th, 2024

Two teens were injured after a Wednesday rollover crash in Washington County. On Wednesday, around 4:39 p.m., members of emergency services responded to a single vehicle rollover accident, near 1305 N. Purkhiser Road in Campbellsburg. Evidence at the scene and statements obtained by investigating officers revealed 18 year old Makinsey Green of Salem was driving northbound on Purkhiser Road, in a Cadillac Escalade. 19 year old Skylar Bullock also of Salem was a passenger in Green’s vehicle. Green said she over corrected her vehicle on the gravel road and lost control of her vehicle. Green said her vehicle slid sideways off the roadway and rolled over. Green and Bullock were transported by EMS to Saint Vincent Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Assisting at the scene were members of the Washington County Ambulance Service, Campbellsburg Volunteer Fire Department and Salem Fire Department.

Two Kentucky residents were arrested on Tuesday after police located a stolen vehicle in Jasper. Around 12:41 PM on Tuesday, Jasper Police were notified of a wanted subject near US 231 and State Road 162. The subject, who was identified as 22 year old Nathanel Winningham from Russellville, KY was located at the Blimpies by Rural King in a stolen Dodge Ram truck. As officers approached the vehicle, Winningham and his passenger, 28 year old Sarah Wring from Madisonville, KY fled on foot. Both subjects were later apprehended and transported to the Dubois County Jail. Winningham is facing charges of Motor Vehicle Theft, Possession of Meth, Possession of Paraphernalia and Resisting Law Enforcement. Wring is charged with Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Meth and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Thursday, April 18th, 2024

The Paoli Police Department received an anonymous tip regarding suspicious activity regarding theft from cars in the community. Paoli Police Department obtained and executed a search warrant for a room located at the MidWest Inn. During the execution of the warrant, officers recovered a firearm that had been reported stolen from a vehicle on Cook Street in Paoli. Additionally, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia was discovered within the room. Further investigation revealed multiple items linked to ongoing vehicle theft investigations being conducted by the West Baden Police Department. These items were promptly turned over to their department for further analysis. As a result of this operation, 20 year old Levi Sons and 22 year old Ryan Sons, were taken into custody. Charges against them include unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen firearm, theft, possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, and maintaining a common nuisance.

On Wednesday, Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter presented Trooper Noah Ewing with the Jasper District Top OWI Award for his efforts in keeping Indiana roadways safe by apprehending 38 impaired drivers in 2023. Trooper Ewing is a Pennsylvania native, and eight-year veteran of the Indiana State Police. Trooper Ewing graduated from the 75th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy in November of 2015. After graduating from the Recruit Academy, Ewing was assigned to the Jasper Post where he has primarily patrolled Orange County. Ewing recently served on the Jasper District All Crimes Policing Team, primarily focusing on drug interdiction and impaired driving detection. Trooper Ewing has an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from the Community College of Beaver County in Pennsylvania and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology / Biblical Studies from Colorado Christian University. Trooper Ewing is a Drug Recognition Expert, Firearms Instructor, Standardized Field Sobriety Test Instructor, and Hostage Negotiator. Trooper Ewing lives and primarily patrols Orange County.

Two people were injured in a one vehicle crash on Wednesday in Washington County. Around 7:08pm on Wednesday, Washington County Deputies and emergency response personnel were dispatched to the area of 3587 S Wilson Road near Campbellsburg in reference to a single motor vehicle accident with injuries and entrapment. 49 year old Charles Hobson of Hardinsburg and his juvenile passenger were traveling south on Wilson Road in a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Hobson's vehicle ran off the east side of the roadway and struck a tree. Hobson was entrapped in his vehicle. Livonia Volunteer Fire Department along with the Washington County Ambulance Service removed Hobson from the vehicle. Hobson's juvenile passenger received minor injuries. Hobson and his juvenile passenger were both transported to Saint Vincent Hospital in Salem for injuries not believed to be life threatening.

Wednesday, April 17th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police were alerted to possible drug activity at a home. On Monday, around 10 p.m., Lawrence County deputies responded to a complaint of drug activity at an apartment in the 4000 block of Old SR 37. The occupants of the apartment were found to be uncooperative, but police observed probable cause of drug use and applied for a search warrant of the apartment. A search warrant was signed and issued for the residence. During the execution of the search warrant, officers located burnt marijuana cigarettes, methamphetamine residue, and drug paraphernalia. In addition, 32 year old Robert Curren of Bedford was found to be in possession of a bag of a brown powder substance that field tested positive for heroin, as well as a bag that contained a substance believed to be LSD. Police arrested Curren for multiple possession offenses including Possession of a Narcotic Drug and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

A Bedford man is facing several charges after police received a report of a suspicious male attempting to enter a storage unit. Police were called to Storage Express in the 900 block of O Street in Bedford because a male was captured on surveillance video attempting to enter the units on Friday around 5:52 a.m. When police arrived, they searched the area for the male. Footprints were found in the soil in front of the storage units. Police saw the door of one of the storage units open. Inside the unit, police found 41 year old Travis Sanders of Bedford. Sanders was detained and in his pocket police found a pair of side-cut pliers. They also found a cut lock and clasp belonging to one of the storage units. Police found that Sanders had broken into two storage units. Police also found that Sanders had two small metal containers, one contained a baggie with a crystal-like substance that was identified as crystal meth. Sanders was arrested on charges of possession of meth, burglary, criminal mischief.

Tuesday, April 16th, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police found him passed out in the driver seat of his vehicle. Police were on patrol on Great Escape Drive in Bedford when they noticed a blue Ford pickup truck and a male asleep in the driver’s seat. Police approached the vehicle in an attempt to wake up the driver. Police found that the driver, identified as 60 year old Michael Cain of Mitchell was lethargic and had slurred speech. Police also found a blue container in his hand that contained 15 grams of crystal meth. When Cain was asked to step out of the vehicle, police found two more containers. One contained 5 grams of crystal meth, and the other had two rolled up dollar bills that contained crystal meth. Police also found a glass smoking device in the vehicle. Cain was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a medical evaluation. Once cleared, he was arrested on charges of possession meth greater than 10 grams, public intoxication, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Friday, April 12th, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested on Wednesday after police were called to a French Lick residence. The Orange County Sheriff Department had received numerous tips regarding possible drug activity in the 1100 block of County Road 810 West in French Lick. Through various investigative techniques, Orange County Deputies were able to obtain a search warrant for the home. In the early Wednesday morning, Deputies served the search warrant with the assistance of French Lick Police Department and Paoli Police Department K-9. One male, identified as Kelly Johnson of French Lick was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia.

A Perry County man was arrested on Monday after police received a report he was trying to steal a concrete mixer. On Monday, Tell City Police were notified of an apparent theft in progress at Mulzers Concrete Supply in Tell City. An employee observed a man taking unauthorized control of a concrete mixer truck and attempting to drive the truck over the flood levee. The truck became stranded, during which time the suspect fled the area on foot. Responding officers located a male subject in the area and after an investigation. During the investigation, they established probable cause to arrest 24 year old Cambron Brady of Tell City. Brady was taken to the Perry County Jail on charges of Auto Theft, Unauthorized Entry of a Motor Vehicle and Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. No injuries were reported during the incident and the property damage was determined to be minimal. The Tell City Police Department was assisted by the Perry County Sheriff’s Office.

A Gibson County man was arrested after he was pulled over in Jasper. Around 2:21 AM Friday morning, Jasper Police initiated a traffic stop at 6th and Bartley Streets on a GMC Terrian driven by 43 year old Daniel Romain of Haubstadt. During the investigation, Romain became combative and refused several lawful commands from police. A search of Romain and his vehicle found him to be in possession of a plastic container that contained gummies. Romain was arrested and booked into the Dubois County Jail on charges of Resisting Law Enforcement, Possession of Marijuana.

Wednesday, April 10th, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested on Saturday night after he was pulled over for speeding near French Lick. On Saturday night, A trooper with the Indiana State Police stopped a vehicle on State Road 145 near French Lick for speeding. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 61 year old Danny Harris of French Lick. Harris showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Harris was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Possession of Marijuana. The West Baden Police Department also assisted at the scene.

A Bedford man was arrested on theft charges after he was accused of stealing over $500 of items from the Walmart in Bedford. According to a probable cause affidavit, Police investigated the accusations by reviewing receipts, documents, photos, and security footage of the thefts. According to Police, 35 year old Jarrod Feathers of Bedford committed the thefts on November 18th, November 26th, and December 15th, 2023. He is accused of switching higher cost items with lower-priced price tags. During the investigation, police found Feathers entering the store, purchasing a few items at their regular price, and then skipping scanning items or using a lower-priced item for others. During the three visits, Feathers is accused of stealing over $500 worth of merchandise. Police then contacted Feathers about the allegations and evidence in the case in which he admitted to the thefts. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office and a warrant was issued for Feathers’ arrest. Feathers was then arrested on Sunday on 3 counts of theft.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police were called to a residence due to a man wanted on a warrant. Lawrence County Police Department and Mitchell Police Department officers responded to the 900 block of Newby Street on Sunday around 6:10 p.m. after they learned 28 year old Dustin Grubb of Mitchell was at the location. Grubb was wanted on a warrant for domestic battery, criminal confinement, and interfering with a police investigation. When officers arrived at the mobile home, Police knocked on the door. While knocking on the door, officers heard a noise coming from under the trailer. They found Grubb under the mobile home and ordered him to come out. Grubb exited on the south side of the trailer and took off headed east. Police deployed their tasers but were unsuccessful. Police eventually caught up to Grubb and took him to the ground. While searching Grubb, police found 0.23 grams of crystal meth in a baggy and two used syringes that tested positive for the drug. Grubb is now facing new charges of possession of meth, unlawful possession of a syringe, and resisting arrest.

Tuesday, April 9th, 2024

No injuries were reported after police were called to a two vehicle crash in Washington County. On Friday, around 3:31 pm, Washington County Deputies and emergency response personnel were dispatched to the intersection of N. State Road 135 and Water Tower Road in Salem in reference to a motor vehicle accident. 16 year old Jacob Wolfe of Salem and a juvenile passenger were traveling east on Water Tower Road in a 1998 Ford Mustang. At the same time 18 year old Danielle Potts, also of Salem was traveling south on N. State Road 135, in a 2007 Dodge Nitro. The drivers’ statements and evidence at the scene indicated Wolfe failed to yield at the stop sign and at the intersection. His vehicle then struck Potts’ vehicle on the front passenger side. Potts’ vehicle continued off the west side of the roadway and struck a concrete culvert before coming to a stop. Wolfe, his passenger and Potts declined medical treatment at the scene and all parties were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident. Also assisting at the scene were the Washington County Ambulance Service and members of the Salem Fire Department.

Monday afternoon, around 3:45 pm, a single vehicle motorcycle crash in rural Jackson County claimed the life of a Seymour man. The initial investigation indicated that a silver 2004 chopper motorcycle being driven by 40 year old Timothy Kerkhof of Seymour was traveling southbound on County Road 700 East, approaching County Road 725 North just north of Seymour.  The evidence indicates that Kerkhof lost control of the motorcycle while attempting to navigate a sharp curve while turning onto County Road 725 North. Kerkhof was ejected from the motorcycle during the crash.  He sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was soon pronounced deceased by the Jackson County Coroner’s Office. An Indiana State Police Crash Reconstructionist was called to assist with the crash investigation.  The investigation is ongoing. The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Seymour Police Department, Jackson County EMS, Redding Township Fire Department, Jackson County Coroner’s Office, and 31 Wrecker Service.

Thursday, April 4th, 2024

A Cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led to the arrest of an Orange County man for possession of child pornography.  Detectives with the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children task force began an investigation in July of 2023 after receiving a cyber tip. The cyber tip report indicated that a specific account was possibly used to transmit child pornography images or video files.  Investigators requested a search warrant based on information gathered during the investigation. As a result, on January 4th members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force executed a search warrant at an address in western Orange County. On Monday, police arrested 36 year old Brandon Lee Alexander of French Lick following the investigation and transported him to the Orange County Jail without incident.   As a result of the investigation , Alexander is facing five counts of Possession of Child Pornography. Each count is a level 5 Felony.

An Orange County man was arrested after three police agencies were called to an Orange County home. On Tuesday around noon, Officers with the Paoli Police Department, Indiana State Police, and Orange County Sheriff's Department attempted to serve an arrest warrant in the area of Youngs Creek near Paoli. Upon arrival at the house, the suspect, Troy Blythe, was taken into custody in the residence. Officers could immediately smell the strong odor of marijuana and noticed several items of narcotics and paraphernalia in plain view inside of the home. Officers then obtained a search warrant for the premises and a search was conducted. The search yielded a large quantity of drugs, guns, and money. Officers located 296 grams of methamphetamine, a large quantity of marijuana, various pills, paraphernalia, multiple guns, and close to $2,500 in cash. Blythe is facing charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine, Possession of Meth, Maintaining a common nuisance, Dealing Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Crawford County man was arrested after he was pulled over for failing to signal. On Sunday, Police were patrolling in the area of Eckerty Doolittle Rd near Governors Trace in Crawford County. Police then observed a vehicle fail to signal their turn and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. While gathering the driver’s information police learned the plate on the vehicle belonged to another vehicle. While investigating the false plate, police asked for consent to search the vehicle. The driver, who was identified as 67 year old Ricky Gray of Eckerty consented to the search. During the search, police located 8.8 grams of a crystal-like substance which field tested positive for methamphetamine. Also, located was suspected marijuana and paraphernalia. The driver was then transported to the Crawford County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024

Firefighters were called to a home on the Martin and Orange County Line  after receiving a report of a house fire. On Monday around 2:57p.m., the Springs Valley Fire Department was dispatched to 11988 W Co Rd 75 N in French Lick due to a report of a fully involved structure fire. Springs Valley Fire Department Pumper 33 and Chief 33 arrived on scene to find no flames or smoke showing from a single wide mobile home. Firefighters spoke to the home owner, who said something was on fire inside of the residence. The homeowner stated he evacuated the structure, closed the door and secured the power to the home. Firefighters made entry into the residence and found a low heavy smoke layer. Personnel worked their way into the kitchen and found a small active fire overhead. The interior suppression team made a quick attack on the active fire and pulled ceiling material around the fire area looking for any fire spread. Once the fire was under control, ventilation efforts took place to vent the home of smoke and heat. The fire was contained to the kitchen area. The whole home did sustain smoke damage. Assisting at the scene were the Orange County Rural District 1 Fire Department, Lost River Fire Department, Martin County Sheriff’s Department and the Martin County EMS.

The Assistance of a motorist in Orange County led to the arrest of an Indianapolis man. On Friday Morning, Troopers with the Indiana State Police were working in the West Baden area. Troopers were called to Fast Eddies’s Gas Station to assist West Baden Police with a motorist who had a flat tire. Troopers then made contact with the male who was changing the tire. The man was identified as 41 year old Justin Krowel of Indianapolis. Krowel showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Krowel was then arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Possession of Marijuana. The West Baden Police Department also assisted at the scene.

An investigation into a crash in Crawford County on Friday led to police locating a stolen vehicle. On Friday Afternoon, A Trooper responded to a single vehicle crash on I-64 near English. Upon arrival, police spoke to the driver, who was identified as 34 year old Kasi Ballew of Sellersburg. According to police, Ballew showed visible signs of impairment. During the investigation, Troopers found out the vehicle was stolen out of New Albany. Ballew was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance and a chemical test. While at the hospital, Ballew refused to comply with officer commands. Ballew was arrested and transported to the Crawford County jail on charges of Vehicle Theft, Obstruction of Justice, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving.

Monday, April 1st, 2024

A Crawford County man taken into custody after a murder investigation was conducted on Saturday. On Saturday Afternoon, officers with the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Milltown area for a possible murder. When Officers arrived, they located a deceased female identified as Nancy Herman. Indiana State Police were then contacted to assist in the investigation. Police then identified a suspect in the murder as 44 year old Clinton Herman of Milltown. After a probable cause affidavit was completed by the Indiana State Police, a warrant was issued for Clinton Herman’s arrest out of Crawford County. After several hours of searching for him, officers finally located him at a residence in Harrison County and he was taken into custody without incident. Clinton Herman is facing charges of Murder and Child Molesting. An autopsy for Nancy Herman has been scheduled and the case is still under investigation. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, Milltown Police Department, Crawford County EMS and Crawford County Prosecutor's Office also assisted at the scene.

Friday, March 29th, 2024

A local organization was recently honored with an award for excellence. The Lions Club Excellence Award for 2022-23 has been presented to the French Lick-West Baden Lions Club. District Governor Glen Georges of Oakland City presented the award to club president Bill Willis during the District 25-E Convention held on March 23rd in Montgomery. Only two clubs won the coveted award in the district of 50 Lions Clubs. The award is the third time for the Springs Valley area Lions and includes maintaining or increasing membership, as well as participation in a number of community, state and international projects. The club recorded completion of the projects on monthly reports by Club Secretary Frances Drabing, who recently received the Lions Clubs International Club Secretary Award. For information on meetings, membership or fish fries, call 936-9450.

A Perry County man was arrested on Monday after he was pulled over for failing to dim his lights. On Monday night, Troopers with the Indiana State Police were working in the area of State Road 37 near Tell City. Troopers observed a vehicle opposite their direction fail to dim the vehicle’s bright lights. Troopers turned around and stopped the vehicle. Troopers then made contact with the driver, who was identified as 22 year old Malik Brown of Tell City. According to police, Brown showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to Perry County Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Brown was arrested and transported to the Perry County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Possession of Marijuana. The Perry County Sheriff’s Office also assisted at the scene.

A Salem man is facing multiple charges in two southern Indiana Counties after an SRO contacted police about an inapproiate relationship. The investigation began in February of this year when a Washington County school system resource officer contacted Detectives with the Indiana State Police. The Officer advised that a child in the school had possibly been molested by an adult male. Detectives immediately began an investigation, which included a sexual assault forensic examination at a local hospital. The investigation also included a forensic interview conducted at a local child advocacy center in conjunction with a caseworker with the Indiana Department of Child Services. As a result of the investigation, Detectives believed illegal contact occurred between the child and the adult male, 32 year old James Crawford Jr. of Salem in both Washington and Clark Counties over a period spanning several months.  After the initial investigation, Detectives took Crawford into custody on Tuesday and he was taken to the Washington County Jail. He is facing charges in Washington County of  Tattooing a Minor and two counts of Child Molesting. In Clark County he is facing charges of Child Seduction, Sexual Misconduct with a Minor and Child Solicitation.

Wednesday, March 27th, 2024

A Kentucky man was taken into custody on Sunday night after police were called to a crash in Orange County. On Sunday night, Indiana state troopers responded to a single vehicle crash in French Lick. West Baden Police were at the scene and identified the driver as 57 year old Thomas Schade of Versailles, Kentucky. According to police, Schade showed visible signs of impairment. He was transported to IU Health Hospital for medical clearance and a chemical test. Schade was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a Misdemeanor charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

A Washington County woman was arrested after she was pulled over in Orange County for speeding. On Saturday Afternoon, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in the Orange County area near West Baden. Police observed a vehicle speeding and stopped the vehicle. Police then made contact with the driver, who was identified as 49 year old Tamara Gibson of Salem who showed visible signs of impairment. Gibson was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a Misdemeanor charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.

The Paoli Police Department along with several other agencies will be on the lookout for distracted drivers this April. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is launching a national high-visibility enforcement effort this April to deter distracted driving. Distractions behind the wheel can have devastating consequences and police urge all motorists to focus on the road and avoid any activity that takes their attention away from driving safely. Law enforcement officers nationwide will work together to enforce texting and distracted driving laws and remind people to put away distractions while on the road. This effort comes during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Police want to remind people that using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal and puts themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will be stopping anyone who is caught texting and driving. Violating Indiana’s distracted-driving laws can be costly. Violators of Indiana’s hands-free law could face a Class C infraction with fines of up to $500 and have points added to their license. Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal.

Monday, March 25th, 2024

A Friday morning accident in Washington county sent two people to the hospital. On Friday morning, Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to U.S. 150, near the intersection of North Road in reference to a single motor vehicle crash with entrapment. Upon arrival, Deputies observed a 1993 Jeep Cherokee off the south side of U.S. 150. The jeep was resting on its top. The driver was identified as 35 year old Christian Rowls of Hardinsburg. The front seat passenger was identified as 41 year old Debra Poteet of Pekin. The driver’s statement and evidence at the scene indicated Rowls was west bound when he ran off the north side of the roadway, over corrected and ran off the south side of the roadway. The occupants were extricated at the scene Rowls was transported to Baptist Health Floyd for complaint of pain. Poteet was transported to the same hospital for a possible broken arm. Members of the Posey Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service assisted at the scene.

A Seymour man was arrested for practicing dentistry without a license in Jackson County. On March 19th, patrol officers with the Seymour Police Department received a complaint about an individual operating a dentist office without a license. After the initial complaint, investigators conducted follow up investigation and interviews. On Wednesday, patrol officers and investigators with the police department along with an investigator with the Jackson County Sheriff Department executed a Jackson Superior Court 1 Search Warrant at a residence on Gaiser Drive in Seymour. During the execution of the search warrant, investigators located evidence showing that dental work was being performed at the location. Some of the evidence included dental instruments, medications, ledgers, other such items and an undisclosed amount of United States Currency. As a result of the investigation and the executed search warrant, investigators arrested Freddie Phillipe Pascual, AKA Freddie Chapin for practicing dentistry without an Indiana state license and criminal recklessness. Pascual was taken to the Jackson County Jail and additional charges are possible. The Seymour Police Department was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff Department, Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Office of the Indiana Attorney General.

Thursday, March 21st, 2024

Per the Orange County Sheriff's Department, County Road 500 North will be closed at the intersection of State Road 37 North due to a water main break. This closure can be expected to last for the foreseeable future in order to repair the water main, as well as the roadway conditions. Please use an alternate route if traveling CR 500 N.

An early morning traffic stop led to the arrest of a Lawrence County man on drug charges on Wednesday. Mitchell Police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the early hours on Wednesday. During the stop, police found in plain view items indicating drug use. The roadside investigation revealed the presence of syringes, Methamphetamine, fentanyl, hashish wax, and related paraphernalia. The driver, who was identified as 28 year old Shawn David Rogers of Mitchell was detained and transported to jail on preliminary charges of possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a syringe. The Lawrence County Sherriff's Department also assisted at the scene.

A Dubois County man was arrested on child porn charges after an investigation early Wednesday. Jasper Police Department’s Indiana Crimes Against Children's Task Force responded to 2444 South Kings Ridge Road in Birdseye following a National Center Missing Exploited Children cyber tip indicating possible child pornography uploading. A search warrant was executed, leading to the arrest of 22 year old Charles Jacob Allen Dewitt of Birdseye. Dewitt was taken into custody on a charge of possession of child pornography. The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Child Services also assisted in the investigation.

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Two people were arrested on Sunday after police responded to an accident in which a vehicle left the scene in Bedford. On Sunday, around 12:35 a.m., Police responded to a report of an accident in the area of 9th and I Streets in Bedford. The caller reported that the driver of a white Traverse SUV involved in the crash fled the scene and appeared to be intoxicated. Police spotted the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. The driver was identified as 50 year old Brandi Kern of Orleans and her passenger was identified as   46-year-old Brian Lake of Bedford, during the stop, police could smell the odor of alcohol. The driver of the other vehicle, told police his vehicle was sideswiped by a white SUV. He said a male got out and tried to get him not to report the accident. The male then got back into the driver’s seat and left the female passenger there, who then walked from the scene. Kern failed several field sobriety tests and was then transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw. Police were granted a search warrant was granted for a blood draw after Lake refused a chemical test. Lake was then transported to IU Health Hospital for a blood test. A search of the vehicle resulted in police finding a bag of several controlled substance pills and two open bottles of alcohol. Both Kern and Lake were transported to the Lawrence County Jail. Kern had a blood-alcohol content of 0.149 percent, and Lake had a blood-alcohol level of 0.163 percent. Kern is facing charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, OWI endangerment, and possession of a controlled substance. Lake is facing charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, OWI endangerment, OWI with a prior conviction, and leaving the scene of an accident.

A Dubois County man was arrested on Monday after police were alerted of a driver asleep at the wheel on US 231. On Monday Afternoon, Troopers with the Indiana State Police were working in the Dubois County area. The Jasper City Police Dispatch were advised of a driver slumped over the wheel on US 231 in Jasper. Troopers were able to locate the vehicle on US 231. Troopers woke up the driver of the vehicle, who was identified as 31 year old Matthew Hasenour of Jasper and spoke with him. Police said that Hasenour showed visible signs of impairment and he was checked at the scene by EMS. Hasenour was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test and medical clearance. Hasenour was then arrested and transported to the Dubois City jail on a charge Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting at the scene was the Dubois County EMS.

Sergeant Johnathan Wells recently became Martin County’s First Drug Recognition Expert. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office would like to congratulate Sergeant Johnathan Wells on his successful completion of the Drug Recognition Expert training. Sergeant Wells successfully completed over 120 intensive hours of training and became a Drug Recognition Expert. The class was three weeks long and was funded by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. The first two weeks of training were held at the Fishers Police Department. The last week of training was held in Jacksonville, Florida and consisted of evaluations and field studies. Drug Recognition Expert is advanced training for highly motivated law enforcement officers who are active in driving under the influence enforcement. DRE’s are trained to be proficient at identifying drugs and drug categories, as well as detecting signs that impaired drivers display when under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Indiana has around 220 DREs and Sergeant Wells is the Martin County Sheriff’s Office first DRE.

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Police arrested an Orange County woman after a traffic stop determined she was intoxicated with a child in the vehicle. On Friday Afternoon, police pulled over a vehicle for distracted driving in West Baden. When police spoke to the driver, identified as 29 year old Samantha Barnes of French Lick. Barnes showed visible signs of impairment. Barnes also had a 3 year old child in the vehicle, who was turned over to a family member. Barnes was transported to IU Health Hospital for a chemical test and medical clearance. Barnes was then arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with Passenger Less than 18 Years of Age. The Indiana State Police assisted the West Baden Police in the incident.

An Orange County man was arrested after a search warrant was executed on Sunday. On Sunday, The Paoli Police Department, in collaboration with the Orange County Sheriff's Department and the Indiana State Police, executed a search warrant at the residence of 55 year old Clarence Yopp of Paoli. The warrant aimed to uncover evidence related to methamphetamine dealing. During the operation, police uncovered several items indicative of methamphetamine distribution, along with the substance itself. Yopp is now facing charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, possession of syringe, possession of marijuana, and dealing in methamphetamine.

Police arrested three members of the same household on Friday after serving a warrant on their Washington County residence. Troopers with the Indiana State Police began an investigation after receiving information of possible drug activity at an Oak Street residence in Salem. A search warrant was granted, which troopers served on Friday. During the search, troopers located suspected methamphetamine, multiple needles, and various articles of drug paraphernalia. As a result of the search and investigation, troopers arrested 31 year old William Rose on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Hypodermic needles, Maintaining a Common Nuisance and Possession of Paraphernalia and Marijuana. 53 year old Terena Wheat, 53 on Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Hypodermic Needles and Possession of Paraphernalia. 71 year old Brenda Warren on Possession of Methamphetamine, Maintaining a Common Nuisance and Possession of Paraphernalia. All three were arrested without further incident and incarcerated at the Washington County Jail.

Monday, March 18th, 2024

A Davies County man was arrested on Friday after police received a report of a reckless driver in Jasper. On Friday Morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was on patrol in the Dubois County area. Jasper City Dispatch advised of a reckless driver on US 231 and Police located the vehicle. Police observed the vehicle drive left of center and they conducted a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 34 year old Joshua Taylor of Cannelburg. Taylor showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Taylor was then arrested and transported to the Dubois City jail on charges Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Paraphernalia. The Jasper Police Department also assisted at the scene.

A Salem man was arrested following an investigation into alleged child molestation. A Washington County school resource officer contacted members of the Indiana State Police in December of 2023 and advised that he received information about a possible child molestation involving a student at his school and detectives immediately began an investigation. Police worked alongside caseworkers with the Indiana Department of Child Services, who later coordinated a forensic interview of the child. Further in-person and phone interviews with subjects related to the investigation were also conducted. Based on information gathered during the investigation, police requested an arrest warrant through the Washington County Prosecutor's Office for 19 year old Darrin Mitchell of Salem. Mitchell is facing charges of rape and child molestation. The Washington County Circuit Court issued the warrant last week and officers with the Salem Police Department arrested Mitchell on Tuesday without incident. He was then transported to the Washington County Jail.

On Thursday, police conducted a drug investigation that resulted in the arrest of four Lawrence County residents. Police initiated a traffic stop in Lawrence County after observing a traffic violation. Officers searched the vehicle and during that search located 17 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of Psilocybin, 11 grams of marijuana, and 20 controlled substance pills. 38 year old Kevin Donnelly Jr. and 42 year old Maria Carter, both of Springville were arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana, 2 counts of Dealing Cocaine, and 2 counts of Dealing a Schedule I Controlled Substance. Officers continued their investigation and served a search warrant at a residence located at East Blue Sky North in Greene County. During the search of the residence, officers located 333 grams of methamphetamine, 179 grams of Psilocybin, 163 grams of marijuana, 3 marijuana plants, 2 firearms, digital scales, and paraphernalia. 49 year old Jason Hill and 35 year old Holly Stoll, both of Springville arrived at the residence after officers made entry. Both were arrested and transported to the Greene County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Cultivating Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. Additional charges related to methamphetamine and controlled substances involving Donnelly Jr. and Carter are expected to be filed in Greene County.

Thursday, March 14th, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested on Monday after he was pulled over for driving left of center in Paoli. On Monday Afternoon, A Trooper of the Indiana State Police was working in the Paoli area. Police observed a moped drive left of center and conducted a traffic stop. When police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 39 year old Coleman Maple of Paoli. Maple showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to IU Health Paoli for a chemical test. Maple was then arrested and transported to the Orange County jail. During a search of Maple, suspected methamphetamine, and syringes were located. Maple is charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Syringe and Operating a Vehicle while intoxicated.

A tip given to officers of a male subject dealing and manufacturing methamphetamine resulted in the arrest of a Jasper man on multiple felony charges. Upon receiving a tip in reference to a Jasper resident dealing and manufacturing methamphetamine, police went to the address of 38 year old Stephen Clapp of Jasper to initiate an investigation. While speaking with Clapp, detectives could smell a strong chemical odor coming from inside the residence. Clapp told detectives that marijuana plants were inside the residence. After receiving this information, a search warrant of the residence was applied for and granted. Prior to executing the search warrant of the residence, detectives conducted a search of Clapp’s person and located suspected methamphetamine. During the execution of the search warrant, detectives located 2.8 grams of methamphetamine, 1 gram of cocaine, multiple firearms, pills, several meth lab precursors, 3 marijuana plants and multiple items of paraphernalia. Clapp was transported to the Dubois County Jail on charges of Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Dealing in Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine With A Firearm, Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon and several other drug charges.

A Perry County pastor was arrested following an investigation from February of this year. In February, Police began an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a Tell City man. During the course of the investigation, Detectives established probable cause to obtain an arrest warrant for 48 year old Errol Wright of Tell City. On Wednesday, officers with the Tell City Police Department executed a search warrant at Wright’s residence, where he was arrested without incident. Mr. Wright was lodged in the Perry County Jail on 4 counts of Sexual Misconduct with a Minor, Child Seduction and Child Solicitation. Also assisting in the investigation were Perry County Sheriff’s Office and Indiana State Police.

Wednesday, March 13th, 2024

The Town of Paoli has announced its “Spring Clean-Up” which has been set for the week of April 15-19. This will be held during normal working hours from 7 AM to 3:30 PM. Residents must live inside the Paoli City Limits and pay a town utility bill. Residents outside the city limits will not be included. The town will conduct a curb-side pickup on each resident’s normal trash pick up date. All items will be picked up except for Tires, Paint or other Hazardous Chemicals or Materials.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces alternating lane closures for State Road 37 near Eckerty. Beginning on or around Monday, March 18, crews will close the northbound lane of traffic and shoulder on State Road 37 near Eckerty will be closed. This closure will allow for a bridge deck overlay. This maintenance project will help to extend the life of the bridge. Once completed, the northbound lane will reopen, and crews will close the southbound lane of traffic. This lane closure is expected to last through the beginning of May, depending on the weather. Temporary traffic signals will be used to control traffic.

An Ohio man was arrested on Tuesday after a traffic stop occurred in Jasper. Around 2:20 AM on Tuesday, Jasper Police were on patrol when they pulled over a 2014 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck in the Dave Buehler Plaza. When Officers made contact with the driver, They identified the person as 42 year old Lance Roberson of Dover, Ohio. During a quick investigation, police determined he was driving under the influence. Roberson refused to submit to a chemical test and a search warrant was obtained for his blood. His BAC was revealed to be .204, almost three times the Indiana legal limit of .08. Roberson arrested and taken to the Dubois County Jail on a charge of OWI with .15 or higher.

Tuesday, March 12th, 2024

A Clark County man was arrested over the weekend after police pulled him over for speeding in Orange County. Late Saturday Night, Troopers with the Indiana State Police were patrolling on State Road 145 in French Lick when they observed a vehicle speeding. Police initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 40 year old Joshua Lucas of New Albany. Lucas showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Paoli for a chemical test. Lucas was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Driving While Suspended with a Prior, Possession of Marijuana and Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated.

A Kentucky man was arrested after a traffic stop for speeding in Crawford County. On Sunday Morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on Interstate 64 near English. Police stopped a vehicle for speeding and made contact with the driver, who was identified as 38 year old Tariq Rice of Louisville Kentucky. Police detected signs of illegal drug activity while speaking to Rice. After a probable cause search, troopers located suspected cocaine, marijuana, and a firearm. Rice was arrested and transported to the Crawford County jail on charges of Possession of Cocaine, Possession of a Firearm by a Dangerous Person and Possession of Marijuana.

Monday, March 11th, 2024

A murder suspect is out of the hospital after self inflicted gunshot wounds he received during a standoff in Orange County. 38 year old Casey Brown of Fort Ritner, who is facing a murder charge was released from the University of Louisville Hospital on Friday. He was taken to the hospital after he shot himself during a stand-off with officers at the Hucks in Paoli on February 25th. After he was released, he was booked into the Lawrence County Jail. The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m., when police located a black Jeep as it pulled into a gas station on Main Street in Paoli. Officers conducted a traffic stop and ordered the two occupants out of the vehicle. The driver, Bradley Harper surrendered and was taken into custody without incident. Brown refused to exit and an hours long standoff ensued. Police attempted to negotiate and deployed non lethal tactics such as pepper balls and gas canisters into the vehicle. However, Brown, who was displaying a firearm refused to surrender and used the handgun on himself and suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Officers immediately removed Brown from the vehicle and administered life-saving measures. EMS then transported Brown to IU Health in Paoli where he was then flown to the University of Louisville Hospital. The shooting victim was identified as 21 year old Kobe Stancombe of Bedford. The preliminary investigation showed that Brown, Harper, Stancombe, and a female knew each other and were all together in the Jeep when the shooting occurred. In addition, it is believed that multiple shots were fired at the female as she fled from the Jeep.

Friday, March 8th, 2024

Two Clark County men were arrested on several drug charges after they were pulled over in Crawford County. On Wednesday, Police were patrolling the area of S State Rd 66 near Goodman Ridge in Marengo when a vehicle passed them at a high rate of speed. A traffic stop was then conducted on the vehicle. The driver provided an expired license which was later found to be suspended. Officers asked the passenger for his name and he gave police a name and date of birth that was not true. While trying to learn the passenger’s identity, K9 Maui performed a free air sniff and he indicated the odor of narcotics in the vehicle. After a search was conducted, police located Methamphetamine, controlled substances and Marijuana. While they searched, police identified the passenger as 25 year old William Powell of New Albany, who was wanted on a warrant out of Harrison County. The driver, 26 year old Cody Reas of Sellersburg and Powell were both transported to the Crawford County Jail on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Legend Drug, Possession of Controlled Substance, Maintaining a common Nuisance, Driving While Suspended Prior and Possession of Marijuana. Powell faces an additional charge of False Identity Statement and the warrant out of Harrison County.

Two Lawrence County residence were arrested on Tuesday after a traffic stop for an expired license plate. On Tuesday, around 5:30pm, Police conducted a traffic stop in Bedford after observing a vehicle operating with an expired license plate. One of the occupants identified himself by a false name and date of birth, but officers were quickly able to determine his identity and discover he was wanted on an active OWI warrant through Lawrence County. As deputies took the male, identified as 22 year old Shane Kern of Bedford into custody, they located methamphetamine and hypodermic syringes on his person. A search of the vehicle revealed methamphetamine. The driver, 30 year old Jacy Taylor of Springville was also arrested. Upon arrival at the jail, Taylor was found to also be in possession of a glass pipe with methamphetamine residue and two syringes with methamphetamine loaded inside. Kern was arrested on the warrant plus the additional offenses of providing a false identity statement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of hypodermic syringes. Taylor was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of hypodermic syringes.

A Scott County man was arrested after he crashed his car on U.S. 31 in Clark County. Around 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, Troopers with the Indiana State Police responded to the report of a single vehicle roll over crash on U.S. 31 near Brownstown Road in Henryville.  Responding officers were also alerted that the driver was removing articles from the car and placing them in a wooded area near the crash.  Once on the scene, officers identified 35 year old Nathan Baldwin of Scottsburg as the driver.  As a result of the investigation, officers believe Baldwin attempted to avoid a deer on the wet roadway and lost control of his Camaro.  The vehicle left the roadway and overturned in a ditch on the west side of the road.  While continuing the investigation, officers located a backpack lying in the woods that contained suspected cocaine and methamphetamine along with drug paraphernalia. Following the investigation, ambulance personnel medically cleared Baldwin at the scene.  Baldwin was then arrested and transported to the Clark County Jail on charges of Unlawful Possession of Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Dealing in Cocaine or a Narcotic Drug, Dealing in Methamphetamine, Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Legend Drug Injection Devices and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Wednesday, March 6th, 2024

A man succumbed to his injuries after a car fire was reported in Orange County. On Saturday around 11:24am, the Springs Valley Fire Department was dispatched to the 1000 block of North Short Street in West Baden for a report of a passenger vehicle on fire and a male that had sustained burns. Responding fire personnel arrived within minutes to find fire coming from the engine compartment area of a small passenger vehicle and a male laying on the ground. Fire personnel rendered care to the male as other personnel began to extinguish the fire as the vehicle was within close proximity of a residential structure. The fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished. The male patient was transported to IU Paoli Hospital then later transferred to UofL Hospital in Louisville, KY. The male patient succumbed to injuries sustained and passed away on Sunday. The cause of the fire is under investigation and the Indiana State Fire Marshall was called to investigate. The Springs Valley Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the French Lick Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department and IU Lifeline EMS.

On Sunday around 4:22pm, the Springs Valley Fire Department was dispatched to the 200 block of Horton Avenue in Paoli to aid the Paoli Fire Department for a report of structure fire. Springs Valley firefighters arrived on the scene and the engine crew assisted Paoli Fire personnel with fire suppression operations. The fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished. It was determined there were no occupants in the structure. Assisting at the scene were the Springs Valley Fire Department, Paoli Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department and IU Lifeline EMS.

A Lawrence County man was arrested on Saturday after he was accused of trying to run over a man in the parking lot of Buffalo Wings & Rings in Bedford. Officers responded to the restaurant around 6:28 p.m. after a caller reported the driver of a gray Jeep Wangler had attempted to run a male over in the parking lot. The driver of the Jeep left the parking lot and was headed west on John Williams Boulevard. The caller was able to obtain the license plate of the Jeep and police found it was registered to 36 year old Nathan Rottet of Heltonville. The victim told police he was sitting on his moped when he noticed Rottet’s vehicle accelerate at him. He hit the moped head on knocking it into a concrete wall. The victim was pinned between the moped and the concrete wall. The victim suffered injuries to his left arm and leg and had multiple abrasions to elbow and had bruising, redness, and swelling to his left arm. An ambulance responded to the scene and the victim was taken to the hospital for treatment. Police went to 1675 Dutch Ridge Road in an attempt to locate Rottet. Rottet did not respond to the police knocking on his door, therefore Officers applied for a search warrant, which was granted. SWAT arrived on the scene and were able to help execute the warrant. Around 9:24 p.m., officers again knocked with no answer. Officers forced entry into the residence and quickly arrested Rottet. Rottet is facing charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and leaving the scene of an injury accident.

Tuesday, March 5th, 2024

A Sunday morning crash in Orange County led to the arrest of an Impaired driver. On Sunday Morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was on patrol on State Road 37 in Paoli. Police were stationary in a driveway when a vehicle driven by 24 year old Jaden Hawkins of Mitchell, ran off the road in front of the officer. The vehicle struck a culvert and some mailboxes before stopping back on State Road 37. Police made contact with Hawkins who showed visible signs of impairment. Hawkins was transported to IU Health Paoli for a chemical test and medical clearance. Hawkins was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. The Paoli Police Department also assisted at the scene.

A yearlong drug investigation by police led to the arrest of a Jackson County woman on Monday. While using a variety of investigative techniques, Detectives learned 57 year old Rhonda Jones of Sparksville was dealing methamphetamine to Lawrence and Jackson County citizens. Detectives served search warrants and conducted controlled buys which ultimately led to a search warrant being served at Jones’ residence. Police served the search warrant at the Sparksville residence and located more than three pounds of methamphetamine. Detectives and Troopers also found and seized more than $50,000 in US currency, two handguns, and a half pound of marijuana. Jones was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Neglect of a Dependent, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Dealing Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Monday, March 4th, 2024

A defective headlight led to the arrest of an Orange County woman after a traffic stop located suspected drugs. Early Saturday Morning, An Indiana State Trooper stopped a vehicle on US-150 in Paoli with a defective headlight. During the stop, police detected signs of illegal drug activity while talking to the driver, 47 year old Amy Buchanan of Paoli. After a probable cause search, troopers located five grams of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, legend drugs, controlled substances, paraphernalia, digital scales, and baggies. Buchanan was also cited for operating a vehicle with an open container. Buchanan was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on charges of Dealing Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Legend Drug, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Postal Service Driver was arrested on Friday after police received word he was wanted on several warrants. On Friday, Troopers from the Indiana State Police conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Freightliner, contracted to the US Postal Service in Crawford County. The driver was identified as 63 year old Kelly Koehler. Koehler was wanted out of Clark County on 9 counts of Voyeurism. He was taken into custody by Indiana State Troopers and booked into the Crawford County Jail. The United States Postal Service National Law Enforcement Communications Center was notified and all mail he was carrying has been delivered.

A Missouri man was arrested after a traffic stop for speeding in Spencer County. On Friday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police stopped a vehicle for speeding on Interstate 64 near Dale. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 33 year old Kenya Hill of Saint Louis Missouri. Hill showed visible signs of impairment and was taken into custody. Hill was transported to the Spencer County jail on charges of Operating a vehicle while intoxicated and Possession of Marijuana.

Thursday, Febrary 29th, 2024

A Bedford Middle School teacher and coach was arrested on Monday after police conducted a traffic stop in Bedford. According to police, on Monday, around 10:45 p.m. while on patrol, they noticed a red SUV traveling east on 5th Street. The driver turned onto I Street, which is a one-way street, and almost collided head-on with a police car. Police then initiated a traffic stop in the parking lot of a local business on I Street. The driver was identified as 59 year old Edward Cobb of Bedford. According to Cobb, he didn’t know he was on a one way street and he also said he was lost. According to police, Cobb smelled of alcohol and was unsteady on his feet. Cobb failed several field sobriety tests and had a blood-alcohol content of .204. He was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw, and those results are pending. He was then transported to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI with endangerment.. Cobb’s vehicle was then towed by Jackson Wrecker Service.

On Wednesday, a Bedford man was sentenced to the Lawrence County Jail by Lawrence Superior Court I Judge John M. Plummer III after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. On July 20th, 2023, 43 year old James Kline III of Bedford pled guilty to Domestic Battery, a Class A misdemeanor and Operating a Vehicle with an Alcohol Concentration of .15 or more, a Class A misdemeanor, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was sentenced to a year in the Lawrence County Jail, with 247 days suspended and placed on supervised probation. However, while on probation, Kline violated his probation by failing to comply with the terms. As a result, Judge Plummer III revoked Hinton’s suspended sentence and sentenced him to 247 days with credit time in the Lawrence County Jail.

Wednesday, February 28th, 2024

One is dead and another seriously injured after a fire ravaged a Lawrence County home on Monday night. Firefighters received a report of a fire around 11:11 p.m. after a possible explosion was reported at 1911 12th Street in Bedford. Firefighters from all three stations responded with Firefighters from Bedford Fire Station 2 arriving at the scene first. When they arrived at the scene they found heavy fire in the living room area. The fire brought under control quickly. While at the house, firefighters found one person seriously injured and they were taken by ambulance to IU Bedford Hospital. A second person was found at the scene and they were pronounced dead. The State Fire Marshal was requested to investigate.

A Lawrence County man was arrested early Friday he ran a police officer off the road. An officer were patrolling around 12:10 a.m. on Friday on Buddha Bypass Road in Mitchell when he was run off the roadway by the driver of a 2006 Mini Cooper. The driver turned west on Pumphouse Road, where additional officers initiated a traffic stop. The driver, who was identified as 22 year old Landon Bohnenkamp of Mitchell. During the stop, police noticed Bohnenkamp was intoxicated and also located empty alcohol containers on the floorboard. Bohnenkamp failed several field sobriety tests and had a blood alcohol content of .179 on a portable breath test. He was detained on charges of operating a vehicle with a prior conviction and OWI endangerment. His vehicle was towed by Stone City Wrecker Service.

A Palmyra man was arrested on several charges after a family was robbed at a Harrison County park. On February 2nd, an individual residing in a camper parked at Buffalo Trace Park near Palmyra reported he had been robbed and intimidated by a man who had entered his camper while he and his children were asleep. When troopers arrived, they learned a man allegedly began banging on the camper door around 2 a.m. and had entered the camper while the family were sleeping. The troopers also learned the man allegedly stepped outside the camper and began yelling for the victim to step outside. The man also reportedly threatened to harm the victim and then stole items from the campsite before leaving. Detectives then began an investigation, which included interviews and a variety of investigative techniques. Detectives requested an arrest warrant for 41 year old Ryan Hawkins of Palmyra. On Monday, Troopers arrested Hawkins on the warrant without incident and transported him to the Harrison County Jail. Hawkins is facing charges of Robbery, Criminal Confinement, Theft, Intimidation and Criminal Trespass.

Tuesday, February 27th, 2024

A Crawford County man was arrested after police pulled him over for Speeding on State Road 64 on Friday. On Friday Afternoon, Troopers from the Indiana State Police stopped a vehicle for speeding on State Road 64 near Eckerty. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 69 year old David Cox of English. According to police, Cox showed visible signs of impairment. Cox was taken into custody and transported to the Crawford County jail on a misdemeanor charges Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated.

A Monroe County man was arrested after he wrote a fake check to by a sports car from a Kentucky dealership. According to court documents, on Wednesday 21 year old Connor Litka of Bloomington went into the St. Matthews Porsche Dealership on Bowling Boulevard in Louisville, KY. He attempted to purchase a new Porsche and wrote a $78 million check. Dealership employees became suspicious and refused to sell him the car. That is when Litka allegedly walked around to the back entrance of the dealership looking for car keys. Litka refused to leave the dealership until he was sold him the car. Employees were afraid he might do something reckless and called the police. Litka was arrested on count of criminal trespass and disorderly conduct. Police found that Litka had tried a similar scam at the local Land Rover dealership the previous day. There he allegedly presented a check for $12 million to buy a new Land Rover.

Monday, Febrary 26th, 2024

Police arrested a possible drunk driver on Friday in Paoli. Policeobserved a vehicle on US 150 West in Paoli for swerving and driving left of center at speeds of 55 mph in a 45 mph zone. Police initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle as it passed the Ritz hotel in Paoli. The vehicle failed to stop and accelerated up to speeds of 80 mph. The vehicle continued past the Paoli square and continued onto the SR 56/SR150 Y onto a dead end private driveway. The driver then turned off the driveway and through the front yard of the residence crashing into a pool in the ground. The two occupants of the vehicle were taken into custody a short time later. A search of the vehicle located Heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other paraphernalia. The driver, who was identified as Henry Tullos of Louisville Kentucky found to have warrants in the states of Kentucky, Tennessee and Florida. He faces additional charges of Possession of a syringe, Possession of paraphernalia, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of a narcotic drug, dealing in a narcotic drug, OWI and Resisting law enforcement.

A Lawrence County man was arrested after police investigated a child molesting case. Lawrence County Sheriff's Detectives conducted an investigation into allegations that 48 year old Howard Morris III of Springville molested two juvenile family members. The incidents reportedly occurred multiple times between 2010 and 2014 in Lawrence County. After completing the investigation, detectives submitted a probable cause affidavit requesting a warrant on Morris and the warrant was issued. On Friday, after receiving the arrest warrant, officers attempted to locate Morris. Around 3:20pm, Morris was observed operating a vehicle along SR 54. A traffic stop was conducted by police and Morris was taken into custody without incident. While arresting Morris, officers discovered he was in possession of a loaded hypodermic syringe and methamphetamine. Morris was incarcerated in the Lawrence County Jail on six counts of child molesting, Sexual Misconduct with a Minor, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe.

A man was shot by police in Charlestown over the weekend. Officers were called to the Nine Penny Branch Nature Preserve on a welfare check around 5-o-clock in the afternoon Saturday. They arrived to find a 48-year-old man who was making suicidal threats while walking along a trail at the preserve with a gun. Indiana State Police say one of the Charlestown officers who responded ended up firing their gun and hitting the man. He is now recovering at a hospital in Louisville and the officer is on administrative leave.

Wednesday, February 21st, 2024

A woman was arrested after a traffic stop occurred on Monday in Orange County. On Monday Officers with the Paoli Police Department conducted a traffic stop on US Highway 150 East. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Karla Backus. During a search, police found methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. She was arrested and taken to the Orange County Jail on charges of possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A Monroe County man was arrested after police were called to the scene of an accident that killed a woman. Around 6:40 a.m. on Tuesday, Monroe County Central Dispatch received a call of a person wearing dark clothing walking southbound in the northbound lane of South State Road 37 near Dillman Road in Bloomington. Several callers reported the individual had been hit, but had not witnessed the accident. Deputies and EMT personnel were dispatched to the area and arrived to find a dead female lying in the roadway. An investigation was conducted that led detectives to 38 year old Dustin Eason of Bloomington. Eason was taken to IU Health Bloomington Hospital for a blood draw then booked into the Monroe County Jail on the charges of Leaving the Scene of an Accident resulting in death.

Last week, members of the Indiana State Police learned of possible drug activity occurring at a Robin Lane address in Jeffersonville. The team then initiated a criminal investigation, and thru a variety of investigative techniques, probable cause was developed, and a search warrant was granted for the residence. On the Friday, Troopers executed the search warrant. During the search, 12.5 grams of methamphetamine, legend drugs, hypodermic syringes, and numerous items of paraphernalia were located. As a result of the investigation, 37 year old James Robert Paul Cecil, was arrested for Dealing in Methamphetamine Over 10 grams, Possession of Methamphetamine Over 10 Grams, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Unlawful Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe Unlawful Possession of a Legend Drug and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024

An anonymous tip to police led to two subjects being arrested in Orange County for drug charges. On Sunday, Officers with the Paoli police department received a call stating that Malachi Terry and Victoria Sturgeon were traveling back from Michigan with a large amount of marijuana. Officers were able to get a description of the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle on State Road 37 North near Hankins Towing in Paoli for speeding. The occupants of the vehicle consented to a search of the vehicle and the marijuana products were located as suspected. Both Terry and Strugeon were arrested on charges of trafficking and dealing in marijuana.

A Crawford County man was arrested after police were notified of an infant with severe, life-threatening brain injuries. On Monday, February 12 th, 2024, Detectives with the Indiana State Police were contacted by the Crawford County Department of Child Services about an investigation into 26 year old Cameron Watts of English for battering an infant. The infant required immediate medical attention at the Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, for severe, life-threatening brain injuries. Throughout the investigation, information and evidence was obtained to support charges being filed by the Crawford County Prosecutor’s Office. On Friday, an arrest warrant was issued for Watts. On Monday, Watts was arrested at the Crawford County Department of Child Services without incident and transported to the Crawford County Jail. Watts is facing charges of Domestic Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to a Person Less than 14 Years Old and Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Assisting Agencies included the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Crawford County Department of Child Services, Crawford County EMS, and English Fire Department.

On Monday, Indiana State Police Superintendent Douglas Carter promoted Trooper Casey Boeckman from the Evansville District to serve as Detective at the Jasper District. Trooper Casey Boeckman, a Dubois County native, and seven-year veteran, graduated from the 76 th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy on October 20 th, 2016. Upon graduating from the recruit academy Trooper Boeckman was assigned to the Evansville Post where he has served for seven years. While at Evansville, Trooper Boeckman primarily patrolled Pike County. In 2019, Trooper Boeckman received the top DUI award for Evansville District. Trooper Boeckman has experience with the Riot Team, Field Training Officer and as a Hostage Negotiator. Trooper Boeckman resides in Jasper with his wife, Erika, and two children.  

Friday, February 16th, 2023

Bedford Fire Department firefighters responded to a fire report at St. Vincent Thrift Store on fire at 12:31 a.m. on Wednesday. Firefighters from all three fire stations responded and arrived within three minutes of the call and were on scene until 4:21 am. The store’s surveillance video captured a group of males before the fire was reported. A investigator with the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted and it is unclear at this time when the store will reopen. Anyone with information is asked to call the Bedford Police Department at 812-275-3311.

No students involved in a school bus vs passenger vehicle accident at the State Road 37 and Hancock Avenue intersection but two people were injured in the crash. The accident occurred at around 309PM Wednesday afternoon, and a AirEvac air ambulance transported the driver of the passenger of the vehicle to U of L Hospital. The driver of the Mitchell Community School bus taken by IU Lifeline ground ambulance to IU Health Hospital Bedford and was airlifted to U of L Hospital Louisville, for further treatment. State Road 37 was closed at around 309PM, Wednesday, causing traffic delays for several minutes. The Mitchell Police Department investigated the accident. No other details were available.

Lawrence County Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline has sentenced a Norman man back to prison after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. 31 year old Chris Hawkins, of Norman, plead guilty to operating a vehicle with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 percent or more, a Level 6 Felony, and to being a Habitual Vehicular Substance Offender on August 3, 2022, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement. Hawkins was sentenced to 1275 days, with ten days served in the Lawrence County Jail and 365 days served on home detention, the remainder of his sentence suspended. He was ordered to serve 180 days on supervised probation in exchange for his guilty plea. After failing to comply with the terms and conditions of his probation on February 13, 2024, Judge Cline sentenced Hawkins to serve 890 days in the Indiana Department of Correction.

Monday, February 12th, 2024

Two men were arrested after police executed a search warrant at an Orange County home. The Paoli Police Department, in collaboration with the Orange County Sheriff's Department, executed the search warrant on Thursday on North Greenbriar Drive in Paoli. The search led to the discovery of a significant amount of incriminating evidence, including narcotics, firearms, and paraphernalia. Both 48 year old Joel Sherwood and 49 year old Donald Smith were arrested and booked on multiple charges, including dealing in methamphetamine with a firearm, possession of methamphetamine with a firearm, and possession of paraphernalia.

A Crawford County man was arrested after he was involved in a crash in Orange County on Saturday. Troopers with the Indiana State police responded to a single vehicle crash near Paoli on Saturday night. The driver, who was identified as 40 year old Jimmy Leonard of English showed visible signs of impairment. Leonard was transported to IU Health Hospital for medical clearance and testing. Leonard was then transported to the Orange County jail on charges of OWI with a Prior and a Warrant out of Kentucky.

A Lawrence County woman was arrested on Friday after a traffic stop yielded over 100 grams of meth. In January, the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office received information that 31 year old Tanarra Fargo of Oolitic was involved in trafficking and dealing large amounts of methamphetamine in Lawrence County. Police launched an investigation into Fargo's activities by utilizing a variety of investigative techniques. On Thursday night, investigators had information that Fargo was traveling to Indianapolis to buy a large amount of methamphetamine to bring back and sell in Lawrence County. On Friday, around 12:45am, Fargo was observed operating her 2011 Hyundai southbound on Old 37 near Judah. Police conducted a traffic stop and during the stop, canine Dusty gave a positive alert on the vehicle. Fargo was found to be in possession of 116 grams of methamphetamine. She was arrested on charges of Dealing Methamphetamine Over 10 Grams and Possession of Methamphetamine Over 28 Grams.

Friday, February 9th, 2024

The Paoli Police Department is urging the community to be on the lookout for a string of counterfeit money that has been used around town. Police have received several reports of counterfeit money being used. The money is mostly 50’s and 20’s. These bills look and mark like real money but have color fading on the back, printing errors, and feel like paper. They also have repeat serial numbers. If you need to file a report or have any information on the matter, please contact the Paoli Police Department at 812-723-2836.

The Orange County Prosecutors Office is alerting the public to a recent scam involving fraudulent text messages that are allegedly from the United States Postal Service. The USPS has issued a warning, and local law enforcement is joining efforts to ensure the community is informed and vigilant.

• Beware of any text messages claiming to be from USPS requesting personal information. The USPS does not use text messages to obtain such details.

• Be wary of unsolicited messages that allege issues with a package delivery. Scammers often use such tactics to deceive individuals.

• If you receive a message that seems suspicious, take the time to independently verify its authenticity by contacting USPS directly through official channels.

• USPS tracking updates will be from a 5-digit number. Be cautious if you receive tracking messages from unfamiliar or suspicious sources.

To report a suspected scam related to USPS, please send an email to spam@uspis.gov or forward suspicious messages to 7726.

The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office were looking for 37 year old Joshua Flynn of Hobbieville in regards to the string of burglaries in the Springville area. Police had established probable cause for the arrest of Flynn for four burglaries in Lawrence County. On Wednesday morning, Police received a call from a homeowner in the 3400 block of Springville-Judah Road about an unwanted male on the property. Flynn was believed to be the male, however, he was gone when officers arrived. Officers did locate a stolen truck and stolen Stihl equipment. Police searched the area and received a tip from other homeowners who reported the same male along Washboard Road and North Pike Road. Police located Flynn, who failed to comply with verbal commands and fled on foot. Officers apprehended Flynn after a short foot pursuit. Flynn resisted and struggled with officers but was taken into custody. During a search of Flynn, one officer was stuck by a hypodermic syringe and received medical treatment. Flynn was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Flynn was transported to IU Health Bedford for treatment of minor injuries. Once cleared at the hospital, Flynn was incarcerated in the Lawrence County Jail for multiple offenses, including burglary, theft, and resisting law enforcement. Other charges, including additional burglaries and thefts, are expected to be filed as well.

Wednesday, February 7th, 2024

Two people were arrested after they were caught on a surveillance camera trying to rob a house in Lawrence County. On Tuesday around 4:53am, the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call of a burglary in progress in the 7000 block of River Road in Tunnelton. The homeowner, who was not at the residence, was notified by his camera surveillance system of activity at his home. The owner reported there appeared to be a gray, Chevrolet HHR in his driveway and there were three individuals inside the residence. As officers traveled to the residence, the homeowner notified them the HHR had left the residence. A short time later, police spotted the HHR. The driver of the HHR fled eastbound on River Road, almost striking an oncoming police car. A vehicle pursuit ensued, ending a short time later on River Road after the HHR crashed. One police car was damaged in the pursuit. The three occupants of the HHR attempted to flee, but Officers apprehended one male, later identified as 39 year old Richard Pemberton of Mitchell, and one female, later identified as 23 year old Alyssa Smith of Campbellsburg. The male driver was able to elude capture. Officers discovered the HHR had previously been reported as stolen out of Orange County. They also located methamphetamine, marijuana, legend drugs, hypodermic syringes, and a loaded firearm. Both Pemberton and Smith were arrested for burglary as well as multiple drug offenses.

On Tuesday, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force served a search warrant and arrested a Bedford man in connection with the possession and distribution of child pornography. Detectives initiated an investigation into the possession and distribution of child pornography after receiving a cybertip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The social media app KIK had reported that an account holder was sharing child pornography. During their investigation, detectives identified the suspect as 38 year old John Fishel of Bedford. A search warrant was served at a residence on Guthrie Bend, and Fishel was arrested on 2 counts of Distribution of Child Pornography Under 12 years of age, 2 counts of Distribution of Child Pornography, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

One person was killed and another injured after a two vehicle crash occurred on Tuesday in Monroe County. Around 8:06 a.m., on Tuesday, Troopers from the Indiana State Police and officers from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of South Garrison Chapel Road and West Gardner Road in Monroe County. Upon arrival at the scene, police found a white 1995 Ford F150 pickup truck and a red and black 1996 GMC Sonoma pickup truck with extensive damage. The Sonoma was off the roadway facing westbound while the F150 remained in the roadway facing eastbound. According to the investigation, the GMC Sonoma traveled eastbound on West Gardner Road and entered the T-intersection when the southbound white Ford F150 on South Garrison Chapel Road struck it. The driver of the Sonoma was identified as 66 year old John Skirvin of Bloomington, while the driver of the Ford F150 was identified as 38 year old Joshua Scroggins also of Bloomington. Upon arrival, the Monroe County Coroner’s Office pronounced Skirvin dead at the scene.  Scroggins was transported to IU Health Bloomington Hospital for treatment and a blood draw. The crash remains under investigation.

Tuesday, February 6th, 2024

A Perry County woman was arrested after police responded to a report that a man was shot. On Saturday night, officers with the Perry County Sheriff’s Office and Tell City Police Department responded to a 911 call of a female stating her boyfriend had just been shot. Officers arrived on the scene and located a male, identified as Aaron Waninger, who was unresponsive. Officers attempted life-saving measures but were unsuccessful. Indiana State Police were contacted to aid in the investigation. When detectives arrived, they spoke to 51 year old Tonya Coomer of Tell City. During further investigation, detectives determined Coomer had shot Waninger. Coomer was arrested and transported to the Perry County jail on felony charges of Murder and Criminal Recklessness with a Firearm. This case is still under investigation.

On Thursday, A Mitchell man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. On June 2nd, 2023, 33 year old Brandon Edwards of Mitchell pleaded guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony. He was sentenced to 910 days in the Indiana Department of Correction, with most of that time suspended. He was placed on probation for 546 days. However, while on probation, Edwards was charged with a new criminal offense. He pleaded guilty to Theft, on January 1st, in a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was sentenced to 180 days in the Lawrence County Jail, with that time suspended, and one year of supervised probation, which violated the terms and conditions of his probation. Edwards also admitted to other violations of the terms and conditions of his probation. As a result, Judge Cline revoked Edwards’ suspended sentence; sentencing him to 850 days in the IDOC, and terminated the probation as unsuccessful. The two sentences are to run consecutively.

On Monday morning, officers responded to the Seymour Middle School for a traffic accident involving a 14 year old student who was struck while walking in a cross walk. The student was later treated for injuries sustained to her upper extremities. The driver involved initially fled the scene, but later called the school to check on the student. Officers soon placed 55 year old Brian Carpenter of Seymour under arrest and took him to the Jackson County Jail. He is facing a charge of Leaving the Scene of an Injury Accident Resulting in Moderate Bodily Injury. Police urge motorists to be extra vigilant in school zones and around school buses.

Thursday, February 1st, 2024

A single vehicle crash on Monday night led to the arrest of an Orange County man for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. On Monday night, officers responded to the Paoli area in response to a property damage accident. Troopers with the Indiana State Police arrived on the scene along with the Paoli Police Department. After being checked by EMS, troopers spoke to the driver, identified as 48 year old Jeremy McCracken of Paoli. While speaking to McCracken, troopers observed signs of impairment. An OWI investigation was started that led to the arrest of McCracken. During a search, suspected marijuana and paraphernalia were located. McCracken was transported to IU Health Hospital for medical clearance. McCracken was then transported to the Orange County jail on charges of OWI, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. Assisting at the scene were the Paoli Police Department and the Orange County EMS.

A Perry County man was critically injured after a single vehicle crash in Spencer County Monday night. On Monday night, around 9:22 pm, Spencer County Deputies, EMS, and First Responders responded to a single-vehicle accident on SR 70, near New Hope Baptist Church near Grandview. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle, heading westbound, veered off the north side of the roadway, colliding with two trees before coming to a rest on the north side of the roadway within a ditch. Speed is believed to be a factor. The driver, identified as 19 year old Darius Watkins of Cannelton, was extricated from the vehicle and transported to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital where he remains in critical condition. The Spencer County Sheriff's Office are currently investigating this accident.

Monday, January 29th, 024

A Monroe County woman was arrested after police determined she was responsible for the death of an inmate at the Orange County Jail. On January 23 rd, after an Indiana State Police investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for 31 year old Sarah Shipman of Bloomington through the Orange County Circuit Court. On Wednesday, Shipman turned herself into the Orange County Jail. Shipman is facing charges of Dealing in a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death, Dealing a Schedule 1 in a Penal of Juvenile Facility, Trafficking with an Inmate and OWI with a Prior. The incident occurred on December 30th after Indiana State Police responded to the Orange County Jail to investigate the death of an inmate. The preliminary investigation revealed that around 5:00 a.m. Saturday, jail officers with the Orange County Sheriff's Office located a female inmate, identified as 54 year old Jeanne Ross of Mooresville unresponsive. Emergency personnel were unable to revive Ross.  She was pronounced dead at the scene by the Orange County Coroner's Office. The Orange County Sheriff's Office requested the Indiana State Police investigate the death. The Orange County Coroner's Office assisted the Indiana State Police in this investigation.   Ross was transported from the Hendricks County Jail to the Orange County Jail on a warrant for failure to appear. 

Investigators with the Indiana State Police in Sellersburg are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred around Midnight on Sunday in Salem. Just after 12:00 a.m., Salem Police, along with ISP Troopers, responded to a 911 call advising a person had been shot inside a house on the 500 block of North College Avenue in Salem.  When officers entered the residence, they discovered an adult male who had been shot, lying on the floor.  Paramedics with the Washington County Ambulance Service responded; however, the male subject was pronounced dead at the scene.  Another adult male, identified as 24 year old Blake Howard Henry of Salem, and two adult females were also present at the time of the shooting.  All three were questioned by police. As a result of the investigation, ISP detectives believe the shooting was the result of a domestic incident.  Henry was arrested for Murder and incarcerated at the Washington County Jail. The deceased male has been identified as 29 year old Jacob Richard Mitchell of Salem. This is an ongoing investigation.

A Kentucky man was arrested after a traffic stop occurred in Perry County by police for driving left of center. On Thursday night, the Perry County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for driving left of center. Troopers with the Indiana State Police stopped to assist with the stop. While speaking to the driver, identified as 32 year old Charlee Cagle of Hardinsburg Kentucky, troopers observed signs that Cagle may be impaired. An OWI investigation was started that led to the arrest of Cagle. During a search, suspected methamphetamine was located. Cagle was then transported to the Perry County jail on charges of OWI, Possession of Methamphetamine and a Felony Warrant out of Perry County.

Friday, January 26th, 2024

No injuries were reported after a minor two vehicle collision occurred in the parking lot of an Orange County gas station. On Sunday, an Officer with the French Lick Police Department was dispatched to the Hucks Gas Station in French Lick in reference to an accident. When police arrived at the scene, they found two women standing in front of the Huck's building by their vehicles. While at the scene, police identified the two involved as 68 year Suzanne Broughton of Marengo who was driving a Gray 2021 Buick Envision. The other driver, 65 year old Susan Nichols of South Bend was driving a Gray 2009 Toyota Corolla. According to the investigation, Broughton told police she was backing out and sideswiped the vehicle beside her. The vehicle beside her was Nichols Toyota in Suzan was in at the time. Neither Broughton or Nichols were injured in the collision. The Buick sustained minor damage to the left front bumper and the Corolla had minor damage to its left side. Both vehicles were able to be driven from the scene.

A Lawrence County man and woman were arrested after police conducted a search of a home suspected of housing a wanted man. On Thursday, around 12:30am, Police went to a residence in the 200 block of Lucas Street in Heltonville in an attempt to locate 42 year old James Wright of Heltonville. Wright was wanted on a felony failure to appear warrant in Lawrence County. Officers had received a tip that Wright was at that residence, staying with his sister, 48 year old Kaly George of Heltonville. George had been uncooperative in the past when officers went to the residence looking for Wright, therefore, a search warrant was applied for and obtained for the residence. While searching the residence, officers located a hidden trap door in the floor that opened into the crawl space of the home, where officers located Wright attempting to hide. He was taken into custody without further incident. Police discovered that George had hidden Wright on multiple occasions from the police. She also allegedly lied about Wright being present and she continued to be uncooperative and deceitful in an attempt to conceal Wright. Officers arrested George for Assisting a Criminal by harboring a wanted felon. Both Wright and George were incarcerated at the Lawrence County Jail.

On January 11, 2024, A Bedford man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. On June 1st, 49 year old Michael Nikirk of Bedford pleaded guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. The plea agreement offered Nikirk a total of 910 days in prison, with 904 suspended, and 546 days of supervised probation. However, while on probation, Nikirk was charged with Possession of a Device or Substance Used to Interfere with a Drug or Alcohol Screening Test. He pleaded guilty to that charge on January 11th in a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was sentenced to 60 days in the Lawrence County Jail and admitted to violating his probation. As a result of his guilty plea, Judge Cline revoked Nikirk’s suspended sentence and sentenced him to 900 days in the IDOC, and terminated the probation as unsuccessful. The two sentences are to run consecutively.

Thursday, January 25th, 2024

A Hillham man was found dead after a Monday night explosion occurred in Orange County. On Monday around 6:15pm, The Springs Valley Fire Department and Orange County Rural District 1 Fire Department responded to a report of a loud explosion and fire in the woods near the Texas Eastern Gas Company . Police arrived at the site and reported the incident occurred at the 2200 block of N. Hillham Road in Hillham. F ire units arrived on the scene and found a very large debris field along with debris piles on fire. After an initial search, no persons were found. Homes within a half mile of the explosion stated their homes sustained damage. The explosion could be heard over 10 miles away. Fire personnel on the scene spent around three hours extinguishing fires throughout the incident scene. Search and rescue efforts were halted Monday night due low light visibility. Rescue efforts restarted Tuesday morning and the Department of Homeland Security confirmed a body was found and removed from the scene. The person found killed in the explosion was identified as David Baker. The cause of the incident was reported as a propane tank exploded. It is unknown what caused it to explode and is still under investigation. The entire home was leveled and all nearby roads were shut down for an extended amount of time. The Indiana State Fire Marshall’s Office is investigation the incident.

A two vehicle crash sent two people to the hospital in Washington County on Monday. On Monday around 3:16 pm, members of emergency services responded to the area of 5498 E. State Road 56 in Salem due to a two vehicle crash. At the scene, deputies determined that 45 year old John Cornett of Austin was traveling west on State Road 56. Cornett was driving a 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse and crossed into the eastbound lane of travel and struck a 2013 Peterbilt truck driven by 31 year old Cameron McKinley of Salem. Cornett was transported to University of Louisville Hospital by the Washington County Ambulance Service for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. McKinley was transported by personal vehicle to Saint Vincent Hospital, in Salem, where he was treated and released. The crash remains under investigation.

At least one person was injured after a three vehicle collision occurred on Tuesday in Washington County. On Tuesday around 4:53 pm, emergency services were dispatched to the area of 11000 S. State Road 135 in reference to a three vehicle crash. Evidence at the scene and witness statements indicate that 21 year old Landon Temple of Pekin was driving a 2015 Ford F-350 northbound on S. State Road 135. He was pulling a double axel utility trailer. 25 year old Brandon Brossman of Sullivan was also traveling northbound behind Temple. Brossman was driving a 2016 Volvo semi-tractor and trailer, while 45 year old Brian Cooper of Salem was traveling southbound on S. State Road 135 in a 2017 Subaru Forester. Cooper drove left of center and into the northbound lane, where his vehicle struck the driver’s side of the utility trailer. Cooper’s vehicle then spun out of control and struck the front driver’s side of Brossman’s semi before Cooper’s vehicle traveled off the west side of the roadway and rolled over several times. Cooper was transported to the Baptist East Floyd County Hospital for treatment of his injuries by the Washington County Ambulance Service. The crash remains under investigation at this time.

Thursday, January 18th, 2024

An Orange County man was arrested after police pulled him over for driving left of center in Orleans. On Saturday Night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police stopped a vehicle on State Road 37 for going left of center. Troopers spoke to the driver, who was identified as 36 year old Bradley Parks of Orleans. Parks displayed signs of being impaired and an OWI investigation was started that led to the arrest. Parks had a prior conviction for operating while impaired in 2022 making this a felony. Parks was then transported to the Orange County jail on the felony count of OWI with a Prior. The Orleans Police Department also assisted at the scene.

Authorities are actively seeking Tyrone Lynn Goodman, a 23-year-old male, with a warrant issued by Martin Circuit Court. Goodman, standing at approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 250 pounds, has black hair and brown eyes. Last spotted near 604 N. JFK Avenue in Loogootee, Indiana on December 14, 2023. Goodman was convicted of sexual misconduct with a minor on June 28, 2022, in Dubois County, Indiana. Goodman is a registered sex offender in Martin County, but has not complied with Indiana code as required by a sex offender. Goodman is currently not in compliance with Indiana law and currently has an active arrest warrant out of Martin Circuit Court for failure to register as a sex offender, a level 6 felony. If you know where Goodman may be located, please contact the Martin County Sheriff's Office at 247-3726. Callers may remain anonymous.

A Crawford County woman was arrested on a warrant after a domestic incident from late December of 2023. According to a probable cause affidavit, on December 22nd, Mitchell Police responded to a report of a domestic fight in the 100 block of Dale Street at 10:43 p.m. in Mitchell. According to the caller, 28 year old Sumer Edmonson had punched a male in the face and left the home on foot. The male victim told police he was struck three times by Edmonson. He told police he was pulling into his driveway when Edmonson came out of an apartment and began knocking on his vehicle windows. He attempted to leave, but Edmonson refused to move. Edmondson then opened the car door and punched the male in the face. The male signed a domestic battery affidavit but refused medical attention. Police found Edmonson in the 200 block of Woodville Road where she admitted to having an altercation with the male but said he attacked her first. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for Edmonson’s arrest. Edmonson was arrested on Sunday on charges of domestic battery and criminal mischief.

Monday, January 15th, 2024

A Fire over the weekend in French Lick destroyed a home and injured a member of the fire crew. Firefighters from the Springs Valley Fire Territory and Orange County Rural District 1 Fire Departments received a report of a fire around 5:30 A.M. Sunday morning. When Firefighters arrived at the home in the 8400 block of South Walnut Street they found the home engulfed in flames. While fighting the fire, a firefighter was injured and Orange County EMS were dispatched to the scene. The Paoli Volunteer Fire Department was later dispatched to assist with battling the blaze around 6:30 A.M. Temperatures at the scene of the fire were around 6 degrees which made the job more difficult for Firefighters. This now makes the second residential fire in Orange County over the weekend with a structure fire spreading to a vehicle due to high winds early Saturday morning in Paoli.

The Paoli Police Department have been awarded with a grant of $7,100 from the Hoosier Uplands Economic Development Corp. This funding will be utilized for the purchase of rifle body armor and stop sticks, enhancing the safety measures for the officers. Rifle body armor offers enhanced protection for officers in high-risk situations. Unlike regular body armor, rifle-resistant vests are specifically designed to withstand higher-velocity rounds, providing an added layer of defense against advanced threats. This investment ensures officers are equipped with the latest and most effective protective gear. Stop sticks are a crucial tool for law enforcement, designed to safely and efficiently stop fleeing vehicles during pursuits. By puncturing the tires of a targeted vehicle, stop sticks help bring pursuits to a controlled stop, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of both officers and the public. This strategic use of technology enhances the ability to manage and de-escalate potentially dangerous situations on the road. Hoosier Uplands is a non-profit organization committed to fostering economic development and improving the quality of life in Southern Indiana. Their dedication to supporting local law enforcement aligns with the shared goal of creating safer communities.

After a three-month investigation consisting of the Indiana State Police, Spencer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Perry County Sheriff’s Office, arrest warrants were issued for two people suspected of dealing methamphetamine. On Wednesday, police located 36 year old Austin Adkisson of Chisney on SR 66, near Rockport, and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle he was a passenger in.  Adkisson was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Spencer County Jail.  Officers then located 32 year old Justine Hayden at her residence in Chrisney and she was taken into custody.  While at the residence, officers developed probable cause of drug activity in the residence.  A search warrant was obtained through the Spencer County Circuit Court.  During the execution of the search warrant, 103 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, digital scales, paraphernalia, and a controlled substance were located.  Hayden was transported to the Spencer County Jail. Both Adkisson and Hayden are facing charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine over 10 grams, Possession of Methamphetamine over 28 grams, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia and on a warrant for Dealing in Methamphetamine over 10 Grams.

Friday, January 12th, 2024

A Kentucky man was arrested after a traffic stop determined he was driving while intoxicated in Crawford County. On Wednesday Night, Troopers with the Indiana State Police observed a vehicle fail to signal a lane change and cross the center line on State Road 66 in Crawford County. The Trooper spoke to the driver, who was identified as 42 year old Dustin Amos of Louisville Ky. Amos displayed signs of being impaired and an OWI investigation was started. The investigation led to the arrest of Amos and he was then transported to the Crawford County jail where he is being held on bond. The passenger, Stephanie Masterson, was cited and released for possession of marijuana. Amos is facing a charge of OWI. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Marengo Police, and Crawford County EMS also assisted at the scene.

Indiana State Police arrested a heating and air contractor for theft following an investigation that began in December. Detectives began an investigation in December after a Pekin, homeowner reported she paid 49 year old John Aaron McKinley of Floyds Knobs over $10,000 to repair her heating and air-conditioning system. McKinley is the owner of McKinley Heating and Air. During the investigation, Detectives learned the homeowner was allegedly advised her entire HVAC system needed to be replaced. They also learned McKinley removed the old system after requesting and receiving over $10,000 in payment; however, McKinley never returned to complete any work. Detectives also learned the homeowners were temporarily heating their house with a wood stove and expected the repairs to be made before cold temperatures set in. Detectives then forwarded all information gathered during the investigation to the Washington County Prosecutor's office for review and possible charges. On Wednesday, the Washington County Circuit Court issued an arrest warrant for McKinley. He was charged with Theft, a level 6 felony. Troopers located and arrested John McKinley and transported him to the Washington County Jail without incident.

Detectives with the Indiana State Police are investigating after responding to a fatal structure fire Wednesday evening. Around 8:30 pm Wednesday, the Austin Fire Department responded to a 911 call reporting a structure fire on the 1000 block of West Harrod Road just northeast of Austin. After extinguishing the fire, firefighters discovered a deceased male inside the building and contacted the Scott County Sheriff's Department. The sheriff's department then requested ISP detectives and crime scene investigators respond to investigate. The victim in the fire has been identified as 61 year old Robert David Bowling Jr. of Austin. Detectives and CSI were on the scene until 1:30 am Thursday. After a preliminary investigation, detectives do not believe foul play was involved and are handling the case as a death investigation. This case is still under investigation; however, no foul play is suspected. The State Fire Marshall Office is also assisting as investigators attempt to verify the exact cause of the fire.

Thursday, January 11th, 2024

A Daviess County man was arrested in Dubois County after a traffic stop for driving recklessly in the Rain. On Tuesday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on State Road 162 in Dubois County. Police clocked the vehicle with radar going 86mph in a 55mph zone while it was raining. The vehicle also made passes around multiple vehicles. Police stopped the vehicle and arrested the driver, who was identified as 28 year old Jean Gedeus of Washington for reckless driving. Gedeus was then transported to the Dubois County jail on a charge of OWI.

A Mitchell man was arrested after police stopped a vehicle on Mitchell Road in Bedford. According to a probable cause affidavit, on Monday a trooper from the Indiana State police were on routine patrol when they spotted a pickup truck traveling south on Mitchell Road that did not have a working license plate light. Police stopped the female driver of the Chevrolet S-10 and her passenger 39 year old John Beyers of Mitchell. Canine Dusty was called to the scene and alerted police to drugs in the pickup truck. Police conducted a search and found meth, several prescription bottles with Beyers’ name on them, a digital scale with meth residue, and a package of syringes. Beyers was detained on felony charges of dealing and possession of meth, unlawful possession of a syringe.

On Tuesday, a Bedford man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court I Judge John M. Plummer III after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. On November 4th, 2020,49 year old Paul Diehl of Bedford pled guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 4 felony, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was sentenced to 6 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with the recommendation that upon successful completion of Recovery While Incarceration, he may file for a sentence modification. Diehl filed for the modification and Judge Plummer III modified Diehl out of prison early and suspended 825 days to supervised probation. However, while on probation, Diehl violated his probation by being charged with a new criminal offense and failing to comply with probation. As a result, Judge Plummer III revoked Diehl’s suspended sentence and sentenced him to 825 days at IDOC.

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

A Mobile home fire in Paoli left a woman homeless and also killed several pets. Firefighters from Paoli, Springs Valley Fire Territory and Orange County Rural District 2 fire departments received a report of a fire around 8:00 a.m. in the area of 293 Wilbur Street in Paoli. The Orange County EMS were also called to the scene and placed on standby. The mobile home was owned by Amanda Marshal. Marshal had rented the home for more than 20 years. She had no insurance was left homeless after the fire. Firefighters are unsure as to the exact cause of the fire as the fire was found to come from the ceiling. No people were injured in the blaze, however two dogs and 3 or 4 cats were found to have perished in the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting Marshal at this time. The Indiana State Fire Marshal office have been contacted to determine the cause and origin of the fire.

Crawford County Community School has been granted over 6 million dollars to build a safe room. FEMA awarded $6,000,309 to Crawford County Community Schools to build a multipurpose safe room. The grant was awarded from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and will go towards both the Crawford County High School and Middle School. According to Executive Director of IDHS Joel Thacker, this project will serve as a critical element of mitigating disaster and potential injuries to residents in Crawford County. The Safe rooms are a wonderful enhancement and will serve residents well for many years to come. According to the plan, it includes creating a 7,000-square-foot safe room with enough space for 906 people. The room will serve as a gym whenever it is not in use. The project is estimated to cost around $8 million in total and the remaining $2 million is set to come from Crawford County.

On Saturday around 2pm, police conducted a traffic stop along Sandpit Road. Police identified the driver as 52 year old Terry Srygler of Bedford and the passenger as 42 year old Beau Hash of Bloomfield. Police detected indicators of criminal activity. Bedford Police canine Zazu was deployed , Zazu gave a positive alert on the vehicle. A search revealed over 3 ounces of marijuana in the vehicle. Srygler was also found to be in possession of over 7 grams of methamphetamine and over $2,200 in US currency. Hash was in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine and controlled substance pills. Both were arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail. A search warrant was granted for Srygler’s residence in the 100 block of Greenhill Addition Road in Bedford. As police were arriving at the home, police observed 48 year old Kristie Srygler of Bedford leaving the house with an expired license plate. Police conducted a stop on her as other officers served the search warrant. Officers located another 9 grams of methamphetamine, multiple digital scales, 36 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, another two plus ounces of marijuana, hypodermic syringes, 3 handguns, a rifle, and other items associated with the dealing of controlled substances. Kristie Srygler was taken into custody after police found her in possession of a handgun. Terry and Kristi Srygler and Hash were all arrested on multiple drug charges and incarcerated at the Lawrence County Jail.

Monday, January 8th, 2024

The Orleans Town Council met Wednesday January 3rd for its first Work/Study Session of 2024.  The meeting also served as the Council's Annual Reorganizational meeting for the new year. John F. Noblitt was re-elected to once again serve as Council President for 2024. Council members agreed to keep the Council meeting dates and times the same for the new year.  The regular town council meeting will remain the third Thursday of each month with a new start time of 5 p.m.. All current town department heads were retained for 2024 in their current capacity.  A contract for legal services was approved once again for John-Paul Isom to serve as Town Attorney.  Randy Clark was tapped to serve as the town's representative on the Indiana 15 Regional Planning Commission. John Noblitt will continue to serve on the Orange County Solid Waste Board as will Clark as the town's representative on the Orange County Economic Development Partnership.

A Lawrence County woman was arrested on Thursday after police went to a Springville residence to serve a warrant. On Thursday, around 11:00pm, Police went to a residence in the 40 block of Kenwood Addition Road in Springville in an attempt to serve an arrest warrant on 53 year old Rosalia Sons of Springville. Sons was wanted on a warrant for Domestic Battery Causing Injury and Strangulation. The warrant stemmed from an investigation that police conducted on December 12th. During the investigation, officers learned that a female had allegedly been battered by Sons. The female victim suffered two swollen and black eyes, along with several other injuries to her face. Sons had left the residence before officers arrived, and she could not be located. The victim was transported to a safe location and officers filed for an arrest warrant on Sons. When deputies arrived at the house, they made contact with Sons. While there, they also detected the odor of marijuana coming from the residence. Police obtained consent from Sons to search the residence and police located drug paraphernalia associated with the use of methamphetamine. At that time, Sons withdrew her consent to search and police applied for a search warrant, which was granted. During the search, officers located marijuana, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. Sons was arrested on the felony warrant, plus the additional offenses of possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and paraphernalia.

On Thursday, a Bedford man was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline after failing to comply with the terms of his probation. 50 year old Calvin Haddock, III of Bedford pleaded guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony, on January 26th of 2023, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was originally sentenced to 910 days, with time served, and the remainder of his sentence suspended. He was ordered to serve 545 days on supervised probation in exchange for his guilty plea. However, after failing to comply with the terms and conditions of his probation, on Thursday, Cline sentenced Haddock III, to 850 days in the Indiana Department of Correction.

Friday, January 5th, 2024

On Wednesday, troopers with the Indiana State Police served a warrant on a Dubois County woman who was connected an attempted murder from December 2022. After an investigation, Detectives found probable cause to file charges on 33 year old Alicia Kellems of Huntingburg. Kellems was arrested for her participation in the attempted murder incident and she was transported to the Perry County jail. Kellems is facing two counts of Aggravated Battery When the Assault Poses a Substantial Risk of Death, two counts of Aggravated Battery When the Assault Causes Serious Permanent Disfigurement, two counts of Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon. The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred in December of 2022 when police began an investigation after a victim was lured to an undisclosed location and battered repeatedly with baseball bats. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries that required medical attention. During the investigation, arrest warrants were issued for 3 other people involved who were identified as Jacob Burch, Dakota Hedinger & Elizabeth Potts. Those three suspects were arrested on charges of Attempted Murder, Conspiring to Commit Murder, two counts of Aggravated Battery, two counts of Aggravated Battery with Serious Permanent Disfigurement, two counts of Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon.

An investigation on Tuesday between multiple agencies led to the arrest of a Dubois County man on several drug charges. The investigation began when law enforcement received information that 41 year old Jeremiah Tredway of Huntingburg, was dealing illegal narcotics. Upon further investigation into the information received, law enforcement applied for and were granted a search warrant for Tredway’s residence on Wednesday. Upon execution of the search warrant, officers seized multiple items from Tredway’s residence. These items included 33 syringes, 1 including suspected liquid heroin, 3 plastic baggies containing suspected heroin and fentanyl weighing 3.9 grams, 6 plastic baggies containing suspected methamphetamine weighing 14.8 grams and multiple items of drug paraphernalia. Tredway was then taken into custody and transported to the Dubois County Jail. Tredway is charged with Dealing in Methamphetamine, Dealing in a Narcotic Drug, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Narcotic Drug, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Unlawful Possession of a Syringe, Possession of Paraphernalia and Possession of a Drug Screen Altering Device.

On Wednesday, a Bedford woman was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Corrections by Lawrence Superior Court I Judge John Plummer III after failing to comply with the terms of her probation. On September 14th, 2021, 27 year old Brooklyn Fisher pled guilty to Escape, a Level 5 felony, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. She was sentenced to 6 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with 4 years and 346 days suspended and placed on 2 years of supervised probation. However, while on probation, Fisher violated her probation by failing to comply with the terms of her probation. As a result, Judge Plummer revoked Fisher’s suspended sentence, sentenced her to 4 years and 346 days in the IDOC.

Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024

On Sunday night, Troopers with the Indiana State Police along with officers from the French Lick and West Baden Police Departments responded to a suspicious vehicle on Chalet Drive in French Lick. The driver of the vehicle was alleged to be shining lights in houses. Upon arriving, officers located a vehicle driven by a woman who was identified as 43 year old Marla Kent of Dubois. Officers spoke to Kent about why she was there, and Kent told them she thought she struck something in the roadway. While officers were speaking to Kent, she showed signs of being impaired. Kent became belligerent with officers and refused commands. Kent fought with the officers and even bit an officer on the leg. Officers were able to restrain Kent and she still continued to scream obscenities at officers. Kent refused any field or chemical tests and was then transported to the IU Health Hospital for medical clearance. Kent was then transported to the Orange County jail on charges OWI with a Prior Conviction, Resisting Law Enforcement W/Injury and Battery on Law Enforcement.

An Orange County woman was arrested after police responded to a New Year’s Eve crash in Bedford. Bedford Police responded to a property damage accident around 1:32 p.m.at John Williams Boulevard and R Street on Sunday. According to police, 25 year old Alyssia Fields of Paoli was driving a 2019 Ford Fiesta. Fields told police she was traveling north on R Street and was attempting to turn west on John Williams Boulevard. She said she didn’t see the other vehicle who was identified as Michaella Scherschel. Scherschel told police she was traveling east on John Williams Boulevard in a 2005 Toyota Corolla when the Ford pulled out in front of her and could not avoid the collision. Fields admitted the crash was her fault. Fields and Scherschel both refused medical treatment. During the investigation, Police could smell the odor of marijuana coming from her vehicle. Police asked Fields if she was under the influence, and she allegedly admitted to smoking a joint at a friend’s house. A search of Field’s vehicle resulted in police finding a grinder containing marijuana, multiple smoking devices containing marijuana and a container of marijuana. She was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw. Fields was then arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, endangerment, operating a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

On Sunday, around 8:50 a.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Department requested the assistance of Indiana State Police Detectives and Crime Scene Investigators after they received a 911 call that a woman had been shot. According to the caller, the incident occurred at the victim’s home, located in the 6000 block of Mt. Carmel Road in Fredericksburg. When police arrived on the scene, they found 32 year old Heather Lawson dead from an apparent gunshot wound. A medical examiner, conducted an autopsy in Washington County on Tuesday and officially listed the cause of death as a gunshot. Detectives believe the shooting was the result of an accidental discharge. The case remains open, and detectives are continuing the investigation. The Washington County Sheriff’s Department, the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the investigation.

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