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Wednesday, March 26th, 2025

An Orleans High School Student's artwork has officially been selected as the Dogwood Festival Logo for this year. Brooke Walters has created the official Orleans Dogwood Logo for 2025.  Brooke is a senior at Orleans High School in the Advanced Art Class taught by Dr. Leah Morgan where she is doing independent study. Brooke’s interests include art, reading, and fast cars.  In art she prefers watercolor painting. Brooke has taken numerous dual-credit classes in high school and is one of the top ten seniors academically.  After graduation she plans to attend Vincennes University and possibly study Automotive Engineering.  With automotive engineering, she would like to customize fast car engines and create custom paint and wrap jobs like we see on NASCAR and elsewhere.  Brooke’s artwork will adorn the front cover of this year’s Dogwood Festival tabloid, published by the Orleans Progress Examiner in conjunction with the Orleans Chamber of Commerce.

A Mitchell woman was taken into custody after police observed a vehicle driving erratically in Bedford. On Monday morning, Police were patrolling eastbound on 5th Street in Bedford when they witnessed a white Dodge Durango, driven by 32 year old Erin King of Mitchell leave the roadway. Police then initiated a traffic stop on the Durango. King pulled over into a parking lot in the 500 block of Lincoln Avenue. Upon approaching the vehicle, police saw King holding a cardboard box containing two clear zip-lock bags of a green leafy substance which field tested positive for marijuana. The officer also detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from her breath and the vehicle. A portable breath test was administered and it revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.209 percent. A search of the vehicle revealed two alcoholic beverages, one of which was open. King was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for a blood draw and then to the Lawrence County Jail. She is facing charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction, OWI endangerment, possession of marijuana.

Tuesday, March 25th, 2025

On Monday night school administrators were made aware of a potential threat of violence at Orleans Elementary School. Officers from the Orleans Police Department were contacted by an Orleans Community school Corporation official around 7:30 P,M. on Monday with information involving a possible threat to the Orleans Elementary School. This information was relayed to a few parents from their kids who in turn conveyed this information to the school principal. The principal then put policies into motion and contacted local law enforcement immediately. Law enforcement responded to the scene and conducted an investigation. During the investigation police determined there was no threat to the school. The Orleans Police Department would like to thank the brave kids who made their parents aware of the situation and also thank those parents for taking the threat serious and making appropriate calls. In an abundance of caution Orleans Community Schools had an enhanced police presence at the school Tuesday morning.

On Sunday night, while deputies with the Crawford County Sheriff's Department were on patrol, they observed a vehicle on I-64 traveling at a high rate of speed. The vehicle also failed to signal their lane change. Police then conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. Deputies then made contact with the driver who was identified as 27 year old Grace Stutzman of Milltown. During the stop, police observed possible drug activity in the vehicle. K9 Remi was deployed and alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle and a search was conducted. During the search, illegal substances were located. Stutzman was arrested and is facing the following charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Cocaine, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

A Bedford man was arrested Sunday morning on multiple drug-related charges after a traffic stop occurred in Bedford. Police conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Ford F-150 around 2:34 a.m. Sunday morning on Boyd Lane near the intersection of Limestone Run due to an inoperable plate light. Police then made contact with the driver who was identified as 33 year old Chase Curtis of Bedford who appeared unusually nervous during the stop. Police suspected possible criminal activity and requested a K9 to the scene to conduct a free air sniff. The K9 alerted on the driver’s side door, prompting a probable cause search of the vehicle. During the search, police found two capped syringes, a metal spoon, and a cut plastic straw with a white crystal-like substance and a silver metal cylinder that contained a clear, crystal-like substance which field tested positive for methamphetamine. The methamphetamine was later weighed and measured around 0.3 grams. Curtis was then arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful possession of a syringe.

Thursday, March 20th, 2025

A one vehicle crash near the Orange and Dubois County line sent one person to the hospital. On Tuesday around 12:41Pm, the Springs Valley Fire and Orange Co Rural District 1 Fire Departments were dispatched to a single vehicle motor vehicle accident on State Road 56 West between Texas Eastern and the Orange/Dubois County line. Orange Co Dispatch advised occupants were unable to exit the vehicle. Fire units arrived on the scene to find a single vehicle motor vehicle accident with two passengers. The vehicle was traveling east bound when it left the roadway glancing several small trees and coming to a stop in between trees on the creek embankment. Fire personnel used extrication tools to manipulate the driver’s door so the occupants could be removed. The driver sustained no injuries and refused medical evaluation and treatment. The passenger was transported to Jasper Memorial for non-life-threatening injuries. Agencies assisting at the scene were the IU Lifeline EMS, French Lick Police Department, West Baden Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana DNR Conservation Officer and Hopper’s Towing.

No injuries were reported after firefighters were called to a late night Tuesday house fire in Orange County. On Tuesday around 12:23 A.M., the Springs Valley Fire and Orange Co Rural District 1 Fire Departments were dispatched to the 700 block of Jefferson St in French Lick for a report of residential structure fire. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke and fire starting to show on a single-story residential home. Units immediately deployed hand lines and initiated an offensive fire attack making entry into the home. After the initial attack, the structure became heavily involved. A decision to evacuate fire personnel from the home and switch to a defensive fire attack was made. Once fire conditions were brought back under control, interior operations were resumed. All fire units were cleared from the scene with all fire ground operations completed at 05:17am. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. Assisting at the scene were the IU Lifeline EMS, French Lick Police Department, West Baden Police Department. Indiana State Police and Duke Energy.

Wednesday, March 19th, 2025

Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company has named Dianna Land, SEVP & Chief Operating Officer. Joining Springs Valley in 2003, Dianna has held positions in operations, information technology, human resources, and marketing. Dianna is a 1995 graduate of Springs Valley High School and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources Management from Harrison College and a Masters in Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University. Dianna holds a Senior Human Resources Certification from the HR Certification Institute and a SHRM-SCP Certification from the Society for Human Resources Management. She is a graduate from the Human Resources Management Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin, a graduate from American Bankers School of Marketing, and attended Stonier Graduate School of Banking and received a Wharton Leadership Certificate. Dianna completed the Information Technology School in 2024 at the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin. Dianna and husband Chris, have three children and six grandchildren. Her hobbies include traveling, hunting, fishing, boating, camping, motorcycling, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Troopers arrested a Bedford man on multiple charges late Monday night after a traffic stop in Salem. Late Monday evening, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police stopped a blue Ford Focus in Salem for a potential protection order violation. After stopping the car, officers observed alleged drugs in plain view while speaking with the occupants. During the stop, the rear-seat passenger, who was eventually identified as 30 year old Dakota Stinson of Bedford. Stinson refused to identify himself and gave a false name when first questioned. As the investigation continued, officers stated they observed Stinson attempt to destroy evidence and later learned Stinson was wanted on a warrant out of Lawrence County. During the investigation, officers also located a stolen handgun on Stinson. Stinson was taken into custody without further incident and taken the Washington County Jail on charges of Dealing Methamphetamine, Dealing a Narcotic Drug, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Narcotic Drug, Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Theft of a Firearm, Obstruction of Justice, False informing and the Warrant out of Lawrence County for Possession of Methamphetamine.

A Lawrence County woman was arrested over the weekend after police were called to a domestic dispute at a Mitchell home. According to a police affidavit, On Saturday police responded to a report of a domestic altercation in the 100 block of East Deckard Drive in Mitchell. When officers arrived, they spoke with a male who claimed that 24 year old Aradia Setlak of Mitchell had attacked him. The man said he was attacked after attempting to take an item she had that he suspected contained drugs. The male suffered scratch marks on his arm and behind his ear. The victim told police that Setlak fled the scene and went to a nearby residence. Setlak later returned to the home where police questioned her. Setlak admitted the item belonged to her and confirmed that it contained methamphetamine and her prescribed medication. She then allegedly admitted to attacking the male. The male refused to provide a voluntary statement or sign a domestic battery probable cause affidavit. During the investigation, police found a small clear baggie containing a small amount methamphetamine. Setlak was charged with possession of meth and domestic battery and was remanded to the Lawrence County Jail.

Tuesday, March 18th, 2025

Indiana State Police Superintendent Anthony Scott announced that Sergeant Brock Werne has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. In his new role, Lieutenant Werne will serve as the Jasper District Commander. Lieutenant Werne has been a dedicated member of the Jasper Post for the last 17 years. His promotion follows a selection process that included a comprehensive written exam, an oral interview, and an extensive evaluation of his overall job performance. Lieutenant Werne is a Jasper native and a graduate of Jasper High School in 2002. Lieutenant Werne earned an associate degree in Conservation Law from Vincennes University before attending Indiana State University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology. Lieutenant Werne graduated from the Indiana State Police Recruit Academy as a member of the 67th Academy in 2007. He was assigned to the Jasper District, where he patrolled Crawford and Dubois Counties. In 2017, Lieutenant Werne was promoted to Detective, specializing in homicide, cybercrime, and missing person investigations. In 2020, he was promoted to Investigative Squad Leader for the Jasper Post, overseeing detectives and managing criminal cases across seven counties. He and his wife reside in Dubois County with their children.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure for State Road 164 in Dubois County. Beginning on or around Monday, March 24, crews will close State Road 164 in Celestine. This closure will occur at the intersection of Celestine Road. This road closure will allow for a pipe replacement project to be completed. This closure is expected to last through the beginning of April, depending on the weather. The detour for this project is State Road 162 to State Road 64 to State Road 145. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure.

Monday, March 17th, 2025

A Tornado was confirmed by the NWS Louisville, that began in the Russellville area of West Baden, and traveled from their to Orangeville and Orleans area, a total of 11 miles. The tornado confirmed as an EF1, with top speed of of 110 MPF. The width of the tornado was 50 yards at its widest. The tornado was not on the ground for the entire 11 miles, but came up and down, and damaged properties where it did come down.

Weekend storms that rolled through our area, did quite a bit of damage. Oakland City in Gibson County was hit by an EF2 tornado, that did serious damage to the city. The storm moved on into Dubois and Martin counties, where the Lark Ranch in Loogootee, was destroyed by either a tornado or straight line winds. Damage also in West Baden from a confirmed EF1 tornado, near the West Baden Park, pine/cedar trees, were snapped like twigs and did damage to cars and buildings in the area. Two trees, were downed and closed US 150/56, for a number of hours, just outside Prospect. In Paoli, the roof from the Mineral Springs Hotel, was torn off and landed on the Windhorst Appliance Repair building, also Paoli Peaks, sustained damage, with siding stripped from the building. Officials with the National Weather services, have confirmed, that a EF1 with 95 MPH winds, touched down near Orleans Saturday. In Orleans, the Christian Church Unity Hall sustaining roof damage and the Flag Pole in the Town Park bent.

Orleans defeated Christian Academy Saturday 56-47, to win the schools, 2nd ever Boys Basketball Regional. Their first since 2003. Orleans will play at the Class Southern Boys Semi State at seymour this Saturday. Orleans will play in the 1st game of the morning, at 10 AMN, Orleans vs Hauser. Coverage will begin at 940AM with tip at 10AM here on Q100. The second game will be Clay City vs Liberty Christian, and the winners of both games will advance to the Championship at 7PM Saturday

Friday, March 14th, 2025

Martin County has issued a Burn ban effective immediately, the following activities are prohibited in Martin County:
1) Campfires and other recreational fires, unless enclosed in a fire ring with dimensions of 23 inches in diameter by 6 inches high or larger:
2) Open burn of any kind using conventional fuel such as wood, or other combustible matter, with the exception of grills fueled by charcoal or propane,
3) The burning of debris, such as timber of vegetation, including such debris that results from building construction activities and/or windstorm debris; and
4) The use of burn barrels for any open burning at residential structures.
Charcoal from permitted grills shall not be removed from the grills until the charcoal has been thoroughly extinguished. Limit personal use of fireworks to those that do not leave the ground, refrain from using aerial firework devices.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a road closure for U.S. 50 in Martin County. Beginning on or around Monday, March 24, crews will close U.S. 50 near Huron. This closure will occur between Deep Cut Lake Road and Short Road. This road closure will allow for the replacement of two box structures under the roadway. Work is expected to last through the end of April, depending on the weather. The detour for this project is U.S. 150 to State Road 37 to State Road 60. Local traffic will have access up to the point of closure.

A traffic top Led to the Arrest of a Dubois County man on Multiple Felony Warrants. On Wednesday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police stopped a vehicle on State Road 57 near National Highway for a traffic infraction. The trooper made contact with the driver, identified as 26 year old William Gomez Fajardo of Jasper. While running a BMV check, Fajardo's return showed he was wanted out of Dubois and Knox Counties on multiple warrants. During a search of the vehicle, suspected marijuana and paraphernalia were located inside. Fajardo was transported to the Daviess County jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with a Prior Conviction, the Dubois County Warrants of Dealing Cocaine, Dealing a Narcotic Drug, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of a Narcotic Drug, 3 Counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, 2 Counts of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Operating a Vehicle Without Ever Receiving a License and the Knox County Warrants of Possession of a Legend Drug and Possession of a Controlled Substance. The Washington City Police Department also assisted at the scene.

Thursday, March 13th, 2025

On Wednesday around 4:30 P.M., The Orleans Fire Department was dispatched to aid with Orange County Rural District 2 Fire Department for a reported field fire in the 700 block of County Road 775 West. As units were responding, firefighters were informed that the fire had jumped the road and was spreading rapidly also putting a couple of structures in danger. Fire units were met with heavy, dry vegetation which took off faster than they could move. The fire made its way into an old quarry where firefighters had to force entry to contain and extinguish the fire. No injuries were reported and no structures were damaged from the incident. Units cleared the scene around 7pm. While on scene a medical emergency came in for the Orleans Fire Department and a couple of units were diverted to it to assist with that. Assisting at the scene were the Livonia Fire Department, Marion Township Fire Department. Hoosier National Forestry Fire, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Orange County 911 Dispatch Center and IU Health Lifeline EMS.

Wednesday, March 12th, 2025

Attorney General Todd Rokita has alleged that a travel company based in Jasper engaged in illegal deceptive practices, including identity theft and fraudulent timeshare transactions. GoGo Travel Consulting LLC is accused of falsely representing itself by using the identity of an Indiana-licensed real estate broker without his knowledge or consent, as part of a scheme to hoodwink consumers into believing they were engaging with a legitimate travel consulting service attempting to broker timeshare rental or purchase agreements. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to timeshare scams, which often involve high-pressure sales tactics that include bogus claims of having ready buyers for timeshare properties. Victims are typically asked to pay upfront fees for supposed taxes or closing costs, only to find that the promised transactions never occur. Attorney General Rokita filed the lawsuit through his Homeowner Protection Unit, which is part of the office’s Consumer Protection Division. HPU’s investigation revealed that the phone number utilized by GoGo Travel, which was spoofed to appear as a number originating from southern Indiana, was ultimately linked to two Mexican nationals living in Puerto Vallarta who are alleged to be conspirators in the fraudulent scheme. Hoosiers are encouraged to contact the Office of the Attorney General about any suspected scams or scam attempts. Consumers may file a complaint by visiting  indianaconsumer.com or calling 1-800-382-5516.

Shoals has secured a $26,500 grant from Regional Opportunity Initiatives to establish public internet hotspots, addressing the digital divide for underserved residents. The town will contribute $5,500 and will partner with the Hoosier Community Network from Indiana University to implement the project. The initiative is led by Shoals Town Council President Cary Albright and Dr. Keith Dayton and aims to provide Internet access to students and seniors facing financial barriers. With the initial installation at Bo-Mac’s, IU graduate students are mapping the town to determine optimal hotspot locations. Future installations will ensure coverage across Shoals. The collaboration with IU made the project affordable and Albright expressed gratitude to ROI for their support.

A Bedford woman was arrested Thursday afternoon officers responded to a two vehicle collision at the John Williams Boulevard and Beech Street intersection in Bedford. The crash occurred on Thursday around 3:27 p.m. when police received multiple 911 calls reporting an overturned vehicle. When police arrived at the scene, they spoke to the occupant of the overturned vehicle, identified as Brian Sawyers. Officers then contacted the driver of the other vehicle, a blue 2010 Chrysler Town and Country. The driver was identified as 32 year old Sonya Marie Brand of Bedford. According to Brand, she was attempting to turn west onto John Williams Boulevard from Beech Street when Sawyers’ vehicle, traveling east, collided with her. Brand also stated she did not see Sawyers’ vehicle coming and admitted to never having a valid Indiana driver’s license. Sawyers told police that Brand pulled out in front of him, causing the collision. Brand’s two children were present in her vehicle during the crash. During the investigation, police detected the odor of alcohol on Brand and observed that her eyes were red and bloodshot. Brand consented to a certified chemical test and was transported to the Bedford Police Department where she registered a BAC of 0.128. Brand was arrested on two counts of neglect of a dependent, OWI endangerment, and OWI.

Tuesday, March 11th, 2025

A Seymour man was arrested during a traffic stop after police received a complaint of a Hit and Run accident in French Lick. On Saturday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in the Orange County area when then Orange County Dispatch advised of a possible hit and run at the French Lick Resort Parking Garage. West Baden Police were able to locate the vehicle driving south on State Road 145 at a high rate of speed. Police stopped the vehicle just south of French Lick. Officers made contact with the driver, who was identified as 30 year old Caylie Guinn of Seymour. Guinn showed visible signs of impairment and was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a Chemical test. Guinn was then 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, West Baden Police Department & French Lick Police Department.

A crash on Sunday at the intersection of State Road 37 and Dixie Highway in Bedford resulted in the death of one person and injured two others. The crash occurred around 4:46 p.m on Sunday. According to a police report, 25 year old Joshua Clevenger of Mitchell, who was driving a silver 2006 Chevrolet Equinox southbound on State Road 37, was attempting to turn onto Dixie Highway. He began to pull across the northbound lanes of SR 37 and entered the roadway in front of a silver 2010 Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by 48 year old Richard Voyles of Salem, traveling northbound on SR 37. Voyles’ vehicle struck Clevenger on the passenger side. Clevenger’s vehicle then struck a white 2004 Ford Taurus driven by 28 year old Kanisha Sons of Bedford who was behind Voyles. A passenger in Clevenger’s vehicle, 24 Jacqueline Bartlett of Bedford, was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated by the Bedford Fire Department. She was taken to IU Health in Bedford but later died from her injuries. All three drivers sustained minor injuries and the three drivers agreed to blood draws with the results pending.  The investigation is still ongoing with Clevenger’s failure to yield the right of way was determined as the primary cause of the crash.

Monday, March 10th, 2025

The Orange, Martin, and Daviess County Soil & Water Conservation Districts have announced a new program in 2025 targeting invasive landscaping plants. This program is made possible by a $7,850 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, and offers area residents assistance removing and replacing invasive landscaping on their properties. Several invasives threaten natural areas in Indiana, and most of our woody invasive plants were originally introduced for use in landscaping. Unfortunately, seeds from these ornamental plantings are easily spread by wildlife like birds to natural areas, where they outcompete native vegetation and degrade wildlife habitat. For this program, the SWCDs are looking for landowners or residents in Orange, Martin, or Daviess Counties, with invasive shrubs/bushes in their landscaping. Participants that remove these plants will receive FREE native shrubs replacements, available to pickup this fall. Three different native shrubs will be available to choose from, one plant per invasive shrub removed, up to a maximum of 3 plants per household. Choose between Ninebark, Black Chokeberry and Coralberry. This program also looks to help landowners learn to identify and control invasive plants on their property. The SWCD’s Invasive Specialist Emily Finch is available for free technical advice, including free site visits anywhere in the three counties. In addition to technical help, those that receive a site visit are also eligible for a free invasive control kit. These kits include hand tools and optional herbicide to control woody invasive plants, and are available while supplies last. To sign up for the Trade-Up program in Orange, Martin, or Daviess Counties, or for more information on invasive species ID and control, contact Emily Finch at Emily.Finch@in.nacdnet.net, or call/text 812-329-0048.

Friday, March 7th, 2025

A driver was injured after a collision involving multiple horses in Huntingburg early Thursday morning. Police responded to a collision on West 6th Street near the 400 W intersection in Huntingburg around 3:43 a.m. on Thursday. When police arrived, they found one small horse dead at the scene and a larger horse with severe injuries which later required it to be euthanized. The vehicle involved was a green pickup truck. The driver sustained minor injuries, including pain in his hands, shoulders, and face, as well as cuts from the broken windshield. The driver declined emergency medical services. The horses’ owner was notified of the situation. Sternbergs towed the damaged pickup truck, and the Indiana Department of Transportation removed the deceased animals. Huntingburg Fire Department cleared debris from the roadway. Police closed down the road following the crash. Police then searched for additional horses after another motorist reported seeing a herd of horses running loose. Five horses were eventually located near the intersection of West 6th Street and 400 W after the incident concluded.

Indiana Department of Transportation contractor E&B Paving, Inc. plans to close South Wyandotte Cave Road over I-64 in Crawford County on or after Monday, March 10, to complete two bridge replacement projects in Crawford County. The closure will take place just south of East Shafer Ridge Road over eastbound and westbound I-64 and is expected to be complete in early December, weather permitting. Shoulder closures will periodically be used on eastbound and westbound I-64 while bridge work is in progress. Signage will be placed in the area prior to the start of construction. During the closure, motorists should use the official detour which uses S.R. 66 and S.R. 62. This work is part of a $5.2 million contract awarded to E&B in December 2024.  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.

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

To focus attention on the approaching tornado and severe weather season, Orleans Town Officials and emergency personnel are once again participating in the upcoming  “Indiana Severe Weather  Preparedness Week,” March 9-15 including a special Statewide Test of the town’s emergency sirens planned for Tuesday,  March 11th. The test is scheduled that morning for  10:15 a.m. In the event of severe or inclement weather, the test will be rescheduled. Severe weather information is relayed from the National Weather Service directly to the Orange County Sheriff’s office, which then activates the town’s tornado warning system.  The sirens indicate a tornado, or immediate severe weather is possible in the Orleans area. During stormy weather, residents are urged to remain alert and stay tune to their local television, radio stations and weather radios for the most up to date weather information and be prepared to move quickly to a designated “safe area,” should conditions develop, and the emergency sirens are activated.

Nineteen student caddies from Indiana have been awarded the Western Golf Association’s Chick Evans Scholarship following interviews held at Orchard Ridge Country Club in Fort Wayne. The Scholarship is a full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies valued at more than $125,000 over four years. Two area caddies at the French Lick Resort were among the awardees. Jasper High School senior and caddie, Addison Dart, along with Ellie Horton of Bedford were selected. Addison and Horton earned the scholarship by meeting the scholarship’s four selection criteria of a strong caddie record, excellent academics, demonstrated financial need, and outstanding character. The nineteen caddies will begin college in the fall of 2025 as Evans Scholars, with awarded universities to be finalized this spring. Most are expected to attend Indiana University in Bloomington or Purdue University in West Lafayette. The Western Golf Association is headquartered in Glenview Illinois and oversees the Evans Scholars Program. Recently recognized as the Scholarship Provider of the Year by the National Scholarship Providers Association, the Evans Scholars Foundation is one of golf’s favorite charities and the nation’s largest scholarship program for caddies.

Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company has announced the retirement of Ken Schnaus, Vice President & Business Banker, effective Friday, April 4, 2025. Ken began his career as a banker after graduating from ITT Business College in 1970. He has spent his full career as a banker in the Dubois County area and started his career with Springs Valley in January 2012. Ken is a current member of the Board of Directors for both the Dubois County Airport Authority and Ireland Utilities Inc. Additionally, Ken serves as a member of the Revolving Loan Fund Committees for Dubois Strong and the City of Huntingburg. Previously, Ken dedicated ten years to the Orange County Economic Development Partnership’s Board of Directors and served four terms on the Greater Jasper Consolidated School Corporation Board of Directors. Ken is an active member of the Jasper Lions Club and is also involved with Saint Mary of the Annunciation Church in Ireland,. Ken resides in Jasper, Indiana with his wife Marilyn. They have three children and five grandchildren. In honor of Ken’s dedicated service, Springs Valley will host an Open House at the Jasper Main Street Banking Center on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 1 to 3 pm Eastern Time to celebrate Ken’s accomplishments and to wish him well as he enters a new phase in his life.

Monday, March, 3rd, 2025

The Dubois County Sheriff's Office received a complaint of a scam where a resident fell prey to the scam and lost a considerable amount of money. When the subject logged onto the computer, the computer started flashing and a telephone number to fix the problem popped up on the screen. The subject called the number and was told their checking account was hacked and to withdraw all the money from checking account and put it into a bitcoin machine. The subject was told the money would be returned to the checking account the next day. The subject withdrew money and put it into two bitcoin machines. The subject remained on the telephone with the caller and provided the scammer with the serial number and code to the bitcoins which the subject just purchased. The scammer with the code accessed and took the bitcoins purchased. The Dubois County Sheriff's Office wants to remind everyone to never give out personal or banking account information. The best thing to do is hang up, and/or speak with family member or law enforcement before taking any action!

Thursday, February, 27th, 2025

The French Lick Resort is adding more golf opportunities with a planned nine hole golf course, event pavilion and five or six cottages to accommodate groups. The CEO of the French Lick Resort Chuck Franz said Ridgecreek Golf Course and Ridgeview Cottages will be built on high elevation near where the Resort is building homes in the Klondike subdivision. The project is planned to take two-years and will include refurbishing the Valley Links which will follow the construction of Ridgecreek. Work on the new four bedroom cottages will begin as soon as the six Klondike homes are done.  Golf rounds have been increasing at the resort with 46,000 rounds of golf being played in 2024 which is the most ever.  Not only are more golfers coming to French Lick, they are coming from farther away. With high profile events like last year's Korn Ferry Tour Championship, which was televised, and the Good Good Golf Midwest Open brought a huge crowd of fans and national exposure to the Resort. The Resort’s courses are routinely ranked among the nation’s best as Golfweek ranked the French Lick Resort’s Pete Dye Course No. 4 and the Donald Ross Course No. 9 in its listing of the 50 best casino courses in 2023. Also opening soon is the new Sand Creek Course which is a short course that can be played in less than two hours. The Sand Creek Course, a 9-hole course, will open May 1st and is located near the Event Center and pickleball courts. Eventually, the Sand Creek Course will have lights for night time play.

A Dubois County man was arrested Monday night after were called to a report of a reckless driver. On Monday around 4:41 p.m., police were called to 3rd Avenue in Jasper after a caller reported a blue Dodge Ram pickup was swerving on the roadway. Police located the vehicle near 9th and Newton Streets and observed several traffic infractions. A traffic stop was initiated near 13th and Newton Streets. Police identified the driver as 45 year old Wesley Laake of Ferdinand. Laake displayed signs of alcohol impairment and following field sobriety tests, was taken to Deaconess Memorial Hospital for a blood draw. The Blood draw revealed a blood alcohol content of .254 which is more than three times the legal limit. Laake was arrested and taken to the Dubois County Jail. He is facing charges of Operating a vehicle While Intoxicated, OWI with Endangerment and OWI with a BAC over .15.

On Tuesday, Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline sentenced a Bedford man to 24 years to be executed in the Indiana Department of Correction. 43 year old Joshua Carter of Bedford pled guilty to 5 counts of Child Exploitation and 5 counts of Possession of Child Pornography. The Defendant pled guilty but mentally ill with the sentence left open to the court. According to Indiana Code, whenever a defendant is found guilty but mentally ill at the time of the crime or enters a plea to that effect that is accepted by the Court, the court shall sentence the defendant in the same manner as a defendant found guilty of the offense. Judge Cline, after hearing arguments of the State of Indiana and Defense ordered Carter to the Indiana Department of Correction for 24 years all executed.

Tuesday, February, 25th 2025

On Friday evening, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on State Road 162 in Jasper when he observed a pickup truck cross the center line and fog line multiple times. The Trooper stopped the vehicle and made contact with the driver, who was identified as 55 year old Oscar Armando Flores Martinez. Martinez showed visible signs of impairment. Martinez was transported to the Jasper Police Department and then to the Dubois County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting at the scene were the Jasper Police Department.

On Saturday around 3:00 am, Shelly Moore contacted the Daviess County Sheriff's Office to report her son, 17 year old John Moore, who goes by JD, had not returned home. Around 7:24 am, JD’s father called the Sheriff’s Office reporting he located a vehicle in the water upside down on CR 1100 E, north of CR 800 N near Loogootee. Deputies and first responders arrived on scene and located a vehicle down a deep ditch, on its top, partially submerged in a stream of water. JD was located in the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Initial investigation shows JD was driving a 2000 Mercury, traveling north bound on CR 1100 E, north of CR 800 N. For an unknown reason, the vehicle went off the west side of the roadway, struck a fence line and a guardrail, continued down into a deep embankment and flipped over onto its top becoming partially submerged in a stream. The Daviess County Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by the Odon Volunteer Fire Department, the Madison Volunteer Fire Department, the Plainville Volunteer Fire Department, the Daviess County Coroner’s Office, Indiana Conservation Officer’s, the Daviess County Ambulance Service, Wagler’s Wrecker service and Briggeman’s Wrecker service.

An Indianapolis man was arrested on Saturday after a traffic stop occurred in Mitchell. Mitchell Police initiated a traffic stop on State Highway 37 after observing a vehicle driven by 22 year old Alberto Ortiz of Indianapolis traveling at 75 mph in a 55 mph zone. During the stop, police could smell the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Police searched the vehicle and found a “blunt,” a bong, a device used with THC wax, a jar of THC wax, a blowtorch, and a half-empty bottle of vodka. Police then conducted a portable breath test on Ortiz which showed a blood alcohol content of 0.158. Ortiz was taken to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle with an alcohol concentration above 0.15 and operating while intoxicated while endangering a person.

Friday, February, 21st 2025

A Bedford man was arrested on Tuesday after being found unconscious in his vehicle. Around 9:00 a.m., police were called to a report of a man who was passed out in a car and partially blocking the roadway at 1445 Washboard Road in Bedford. When police arrived on the scene, they found 28 year old Dylan Sipes of Bedford in the driver’s seat. Police instructed Sipes to exit the vehicle and he appeared disoriented with slurred speech, poor balance, and constricted pupils. During the investigation, police found a used syringe in the vehicle’s center console, which contained a substance that later tested positive for methamphetamine, a baggy containing a white crystal-like substance and a metal spoon with residue both testing positive for methamphetamine. Sipes was arrested and faces charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a hypodermic syringe, and operating a vehicle with a controlled substance in his body.

Thursday, February, 20th, 2025

A two vehicle crash in Washington County on Tuesday morning left one man injured. On Tuesday, around 7:15 am, members of emergency services were dispatched to the area of 4357 Becks Mill Road near Salem in reference to a motor vehicle crash involving a 1999 Toyota Tacoma and a 2018 Polaris UTV. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the roadway was blocked as both vehicles were still sitting on the roadway. Driver statements and evidence at the scene indicate 19 year old Asher Elrod of Vallonia was traveling southbound on Becks Mill Road while 60 year old Brian Gream of Campbellsburg was traveling northbound on Becks Mill Road. Elrod’s truck slid left off center on the snow covered roadway and collided with the left front corner of Gream’s UTV. Gream had to be extricated from the UTV by members of the Salem Fire Department. Gream was then transported to University of Louisville Hospital by the Washington County Ambulance Service for treatment of his injuries. Elrod was not injured. Assisting at the scene were members of the Salem Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service. The investigation is still ongoing.

On Tuesday, around 8:19 am, members of emergency services responded to the area of 5380 North White River Road near Campbellsburg in reference to a single motor vehicle accident. Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered a maroon 1999 Ford Ranger off the west side of the roadway, on its side. The driver was identified as 18 year old Jackson Layo of Campbellsburg. Layo was temporarily trapped inside of his vehicle until a passerby helped Layo exit the vehicle through the windshield. Layo was not injured. Layo told police he was traveling northbound on White River Road, when he lost control of his vehicle due to road conditions. Layo said his vehicle slid off the west side of the roadway and rolled onto its side before coming to a rest, against a tree. Assisting at the scene were members of the Campbellsburg Volunteer Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service.

On Monday, around 4:32 pm, members of emergency services responded to a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of State Road 60 East and Aurora Drive in Salem. Upon arrival, police found a white 2019 Ford Transit sitting stationary in the eastbound lane of State Road 60. The left front corner of the Ford Transit was pinned against the right rear side of a white 2015 Ford F-650 rollback tow-truck. The driver of the Ford Transit was trapped inside of the vehicle and unable to free the lower half of his body. The driver of the Ford Transit was identified as 48 year old Jared Roman of Sellersburg. The driver of the Ford F-650 was identified as 48 year old Jermaine Franklin of Jeffersonville. Driver statements and evidence at the scene indicate that Roman was traveling eastbound on State Road 60 and Franklin was stopped in the eastbound lane of State Road 60 waiting to turn left onto Aurora Drive. Evidence indicates that Roman failed to slow down and collided with the right rear of the Ford F-650 tow truck. Roman was extricated from the vehicle by members of the Salem Fire Department and was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital by Air Methods for non life-threatening injuries. Franklin refused medical treatment at the scene. Assisting at the scene were the Salem Police Department, Salem Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service.

Tuesday, Febrary 18th, 2025

The Orleans Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors met for their annual meeting and reorganization for the coming year last week at the town hall. Reelected to the board for another term were Greta Lewellyn, Michelle Hardman, Thomas Lamb and Janelle Springer. Emily Brown was welcomed as new board member for 2025.  Other board members include Randy Clark, Curtis Ralston, Pat Hall, Jimmy Ellis, Bonnie Bolinger, Angie Clark, and Neil Blanton. Lamb will continue as the Board Chair for another year.  Clark was tapped to serve as Vice-Chair. Bolinger was elected as Secretary, replacing Vicki Gross who recently resigned from the position.  Springer was reelected as Treasurer. Robert Henderson will continue as Executive Director through the end of 2025. Henderson also updated the board on a number of activities and upcoming events including the 55 th Annual Orleans Dogwood Festival set April 19-26 with the the me of Dogwoods Thrive in 2025. The Chamber board meets again on April 10 th.

The Daviess County Sheriff's Office investigated a shooting that occurred in the early Friday morning. Around 2:05 am, Daviess County Central Dispatch received a call from Martin County requesting assistance for a male subject with a gunshot would at the address of 15075 N US Highway 231. Deputies and EMS arrived and located a male subject with multiple gunshot wounds. The male subject was transported to the Daviess Community Hospital and then transferred to another medical facility with his condition being stable. The suspect was identified as 35 year old Alexander Carlquist. On Saturday, around noon Troopers with the Indiana State Police and Perry County Sheriff's office responded to the Sulphur area and boxed the suspect in. Paoli Police Department were contacted to assist with a Drone and deployed the UAV in the area. After an extensive search, Carlquist was located by UAV. Thanks to their new 800 mhz radios, Paoli Police were able to communicate with the state units directly and guided the ground units to the suspects location. Carlquist was then taken into custody without incident.

A man was arrested on Thursday after police were called to a Jasper hospital for an OWI investigation. Jasper Police responded to Deaconess-Memorial Hospital to assist Deaconess Police with an ongoing criminal case involving 34 year old Kyle Schepers. During the investigation, Schepers was determined to be intoxicated and a habitual traffic violator. He was also found to be unlawfully in possession of a firearm. When police attempted to make contact with Schepers, they found he left the hospital in a 2003 Dodge Ram. He was later located at a McDonald’s on Jasper's south side. When Police approached Schepers, he allegedly made a violent threat toward police before he was taken into custody. A certified chemical test showed a blood alcohol content of .171. Schepers was booked into the Dubois County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle while a habitual traffic violator, intimidation, operating while intoxicated with a BAC over .15, OWI with endangerment, and OWI.

Monday, Febrary 17th, 2025

Early Sunday morning, fire crews from the Milltown Fire Department were dispatched to a working structure fire in the 200 Block of Poplar Street in Milltown. Upon arrival, units from both the Milltown Volunteer Fire Department and the Milltown Police Department discovered that the rear of the structure was fully engulfed in flames. The crews immediately set to work, employing their skills and equipment to bring the fire under control. Due to their swift actions, the fire was extinguished effectively, preventing further damage to the surrounding area. Fortunately, there were no occupants in the structure at the time of the incident, and no injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Authorities are diligently working to determine the origin and any potential contributing factors.

Late Wednesday, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police gained information that 53 year old Edna Murphy of Pekin was wanted for a probation violation related to possession of methamphetamine. The Trooper also learned Murphy was staying at an address off SR 60 just south of Pekin. When officers arrived, they located Murphy but also observed indicators that led them to apply for a search warrant for the premises. As a result of the search, the investigation continued into the early morning hours of Thursday, and troopers located over 20 grams of suspected methamphetamine and ultimately arrested five individuals located at the address. Murphy was arrested on the Initial warrant, Dealing Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. Four other individuals identified as 53 year old Michael Roach, 52 year old Christopher Thomas, 44 year old Kawlija Starrett and 49 Nicole Starrett all of Pekin have all been charged with various drug related charges.

Perry County authorities are investigating a fatal accident on State Road 37 involving a two-vehicle crash near Alamo Road. The incident occurred when a GMC pickup truck crossed the center line and collided with a semi tractor and trailer. The driver of the pickup truck, Michael Knasel, was pronounced dead at the scene. State Police are looking into it.

Thursday, February 13th, 2025

On January 15th, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office investigated possible neglect of horses believed to belong to Rochelle Peterson of Shoals. Police and a Veterinarian conducted a welfare check on a total of 8 horses at Peterson’s residence. Deputies inspected the pasture the horses were limited to and found that they did not have sufficient access to food and water. One horse was non weight bearing and had to be put down due to an injury. The horses were also observed eating manure multiple times during the investigation. An assessment of each horse was concluded and it found that all 8 horses were in poor condition, at immediate risk, and needed immediate intervention to protect the safety and well-being of the horses. During the investigation, it was found that Dakota Rice and Mykaela Rice owned a portion of the horses and were also responsible for the feeding, watering, and taking care of the horses. The horses were then given to police who transported them to a place for rehabilitation. The investigation was completed and arrest warrants were granted for Peterson and Dakota and Mykaela Rice. On February 6th, police arrested all three parties on the Martin County warrants and they were transported to the Martin County Jail without incident and all were charged with Cruelty to an animal. The horses were transported to Sugars Ridge Ranch in Martin County to be carefully monitored and rehabilitated.

On Monday night, A Trooper with the Indian State Police were on patrol on State Road 64 Near Eckerty when they observed a pickup truck pull out in front of them. While following the vehicle, The Trooper observed the vehicle with inoperable tail lamps and the vehicle failed to use turn signals. Police pulled over the vehicle and made contact with the driver, who was identified as 57 year old William Smith of English. The passenger was identified as 62 year old Thomas Smith of English. While speaking to the Smiths, officers became suspicious of criminal activity. During a search of the vehicle, suspected paraphernalia was located. William Smith showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. William Smith was arrested and transported to the Crawford County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Possession of Paraphernalia. Thomas Smith was cited for Possession of Paraphernalia and released. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office also assisted at the scene.

On Monday, police attempted to serve arrest warrants on 55 year old Franklin Banks of Mitchell in the 2200 block of Felknor Road. Banks was wanted in Lawrence County for failing to register as a sex offender and in Martin County for offenses related to being a serious violent felon in possession of a firearm, theft, and other offenses. Upon arrival, officers first made contact with 52 year old Lewis George of Mitchell. George was found to be wanted on an active warrant out of Arizona and he was arrested. Officers were told that Banks stayed in the basement of the residence and that he was in possession of a firearm. A search warrant was obtained for the residence to attempt to locate Banks. After multiple hours of attempting to get Banks to exit, officers entered the residence and found him hiding. A loaded handgun was located next to Banks and a search of thee residence by police found marijuana, paraphernalia, methamphetamine, and other items associated with the dealing of drugs. As a result of the investigation, 60 year old Tammy Still of Mitchell was also arrested. Banks faces additional charges of Possession of Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Dealing Methamphetamine Over 10 Grams, Possession of Methamphetamine Over 28 Grams, Possession of Marijuana with a Prior, Possession of Paraphernalia. Tammy Still is charged with Dealing Methamphetamine Over 10 Grams, Possession of Methamphetamine Over 28 Grams and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Tuesday, February 11th, 2025

An Orange County woman was arrested after police received a 911 Call about a possible intoxicated driver. On Friday night, A Trooper with Indiana State Police was working the French Lick area when Orange County Dispatch advised of a possible intoxicated driver on State Road 145. The caller said a white GMC SUV was driving across the center line and into the path of other vehicles. The Trooper located the vehicle and followed it to McDonalds restaurant in West Baden. Police then approached the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 55 year old Dawn Turner of French Lick. While speaking to Turner, officers observed that Turner had also crashed into a pole. Turner showed visible signs of impairment and she was taken to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test and medical clearance. Turner was arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Prior. The West Baden Police Department also assisted at the scene.

Regional Opportunity Inc. will hold its Annual Report to the Region event on Tuesday, February 18th, at the French Lick Resort Conference Center. This event is free and is open to employers, educators, community leaders, economic development organizations, workforce development professionals, nonprofits, and anyone interested in the Indiana Uplands. The day will feature various sessions on the region’s progress and future development. Registration and check-in begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by ROI’s Annual Report to the Region presentation at 9:00 a.m. The morning will also include sessions on talent development, creative capital financing, rural community initiatives, the evolution of life sciences, and early childhood education. Lunch will be served at 11:45 a.m., followed by a keynote address from Dr. Angela Lewis, Technical Director at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. ROI will also present the 2025 Indiana Uplands Regional Innovation Awards, recognizing achievements in education, workforce, economic development, and quality of place. Afternoon working sessions will run from 1:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., covering topics like arts and culture, regional development initiatives, and the ROI STEM Fellowship. The event concludes at 3:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to register for this event to learn more about the progress and future of the Indiana Uplands.

A Dubois County man was arrested Monday morning after a traffic stop in Huntingburg. Early Monday morning, Indiana State Troopers were working on State Road 64 in the Huntingburg area when they observed a pickup truck pull out in front of them. While following the truck, they observed the vehicle driving left of center multiple times. Troopers stopped the vehicle as it pulled into a gas station. Police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 39 year old Wilfredo Serrano of Jasper. Serrano showed visible signs of impairment and he was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital for a chemical test. Serrano was arrested and transported to the Dubois County jail on charges of Possession of a Legend Drug and Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office also assisted at the scene.

Monday, February 10th, 2025

A Martin County man was arrested after a Thursday night traffic stop in Orange County . On Thursday night, a Trooper with the Indiana State police was on patrol on State Road 56 in West Baden when they observed a vehicle with an expired license plate. The Trooper made a traffic stop on the vehicle and spoke to the driver. The driver, who was identified as 23 year old Caden Millspaugh of Shoals showed visible signs of impairment. Millspaugh was transported to IU Health Hospital in Paoli for a chemical test. Millspaugh was then arrested and transported to the Orange County jail on a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated. Also assisting at the scene were the West Baden Police Department.

Two local Conservation Officers were named as the 2024 officer of the year of their districts. Indiana Conservation Officer Claire Jenkins, who serves Scott County, has been selected as the 2024 District 8 Officer of the Year. Jenkins has served as a conservation officer for two years.  In addition to her duties as a field officer, Jenkins serves as a public information officer for the Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement and is slated to attend the division’s upcoming scuba diver school. District 8 includes Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Lawrence, Orange, Perry, Jackson, Scott, and Washington counties.  Indiana Conservation Officer Joseph Haywood, who serves Dubois County, has been selected as the 2024 District 7 Officer of the Year. Haywood has served as a conservation officer for 21 years. He served in Knox County before transferring to Dubois County. In addition to his regular duties as a field officer, Haywood serves in the honor guard, as a public information officer, remotely operated vehicle search operator, National Archery in the Schools Program instructor, and field training officer, all for the Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement. District 7 includes Daviess, Dubois, Gibson, Knox, Martin, Pike, Posey, Spencer, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties. The district award puts both Jenkins and Haywood in the running for the Pitzer Award, which is presented to the top overall conservation officer in the state and is selected from the 10 district winners.

Friday, February 7th, 2025

Detectives with the Indiana State Police arrested a Washington County man on multiple charges Thursday morning after allegedly pistol whipped another man. The investigation began in September of 2024 when Detectives from the Indiana State Police received information that 39 year old Gerald Hamilton of Campbellsburg allegedly injured a man by striking him in the head with a handgun while the man was standing by his car outside Hamilton’s’ residence. It was also reported that Hamilton then pointed the firearm at the man’s girlfriend as she witnessed the altercation. The investigation included interviews with everyone involved in the alleged altercation as well as a subpoena for one of Hamilton’s social media accounts where he allegedly made statements connected with the incident. At the conclusion of the investigation, all information was presented to the Washington County Prosecutor for possible charges and an arrest warrant was issued for Hamilton for one count of Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon, one count of Intimidation and one count of Pointing a Firearm. Officers arrested Hamilton at his residence Thursday morning without incident and transported him to the Washington County Jail.

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

The Paoli Police Department released its 2024 End of Year Report. The report detailed accomplishments, community outreach initiatives, and ongoing efforts to enhance public safety. Chief Randall Sanders highlighted the department’s dedication to protecting and serving Paoli residents while fostering trust and engagement within the community. Training was still a priority, with officers completing over 24 hours of annual instruction, including specialized courses on drug interdiction, investigative techniques, and mental health response. The department also secured grants totaling more than $12,000, bolstering its K9 program and operational capabilities. Community outreach had a vital role as officers participated in events such as the First Chance Center Angel Tree, Clothe-A-Child, and local school activities. The report emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and collaboration with the town council and residents. As the department looks toward 2025, efforts will focus on further enhancing safety measures and building stronger community ties.

A Bedford man faces charges related to child molestation following a rapidly evolving investigation conducted by the Indiana State Police. Police responded to a request to observe a child victim interview to be conducted at Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Center on Monday. During the investigation, detectives identified the suspect as 45 year old David Ericksen of Bedford. The investigation led to the seizure of electronic devices as evidence to be examined by the Indiana State Police’s Digital Forensics Unit. Police applied for and were granted search warrants for the electronic devices, Ericksen’s vehicle and residence. The search warrants were executed in the early morning hours of Tuesday. Ericksen was arrested without incident on Tuesday and transported to the Lawrence County Jail where he faces charges of Child Molest, Sexual Battery and neglect of a Dependent.

A two vehicle accident at the intersection of State Roads 162 and 64 reduced traffic to one lane Wednesday morning. A farm truck that was traveling west on State Road 64 attempted to turn south onto State Road 162. A red passenger car traveling east for an unknown reason collided with the truck’s rear axle. No injuries were reported and the farm truck sustained minor damage.

Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

Green Acres restaurant/golf course made a generous donation to the Andry family last week. Green Acres donated a total of $19,578 to Deputy Zac Andry and his family. These funds were generated through multiple benefit dinners held at their restaurant. The Orange County Sheriff department would like to thank Green Acres for their generosity.

Tuesday, February 4th, 2025

Two Marengo residents were arrested after police received a domestic disturbance complaint. On Saturday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working in the Crawford County area. The Trooper and Crawford County Sheriff’s Deputies responded outside a group of apartments in Marengo for a Domestic Disturbance. When officers arrived, they spoke with 44 year old Brandy McCutcheon and 43 year old Robert Satterfield both of Marengo. While speaking to the individuals, officers observed signs of intoxication, and where a possible altercation had occurred. Both individuals were loud and did not follow instructions. While attempting to place McCutcheon into handcuffs, she resisted and had to be forcefully restrained. When McCutcheon was placed in a Crawford County Deputies car, McCutcheon continued to scream and kick the inside of the car. McCutcheon and Satterfield were both arrested and transported to the Crawford County jail. McCutcheon faces charges of Intimidation, Domestic Battery, Resisting Law Enforcement, Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication. Satterfield faces charges of Intimidation, Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication.

A Lawrence County woman was arrested early Saturday morning after police observed her driving erratically in Bedford. Around 1:00 a.m., Bedford Police observed 33 year old Lindsey Hughes of Bedford driving a black 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee erratically on 5th Street. She was seen crossing the center line multiple times and police initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of Heltonville Road and Fellowship Drive. During the stop, police detected the odor of alcohol and Hughes admitted to consuming alcohol. Police asked her to perform a Standardized Field Sobriety Test, which she reportedly failed. A preliminary breath test registered a blood-alcohol of 0.105, well above the legal limit of 0.08. Hughes consented to a certified chemical blood test at IU Health Bedford Hospital. Following the blood draw, Hughes was arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI with Endangerment.

A Heltonville woman was arrested early Sunday morning after she entered someone else's apartment and woke up the woman and her son. Around 2:45 a.m., Mitchell police were dispatched to the Persimmon Park Apartments for a report of an unwanted person. The caller told police that 48 year old Dara Hagemier of Heltonville had entered her apartment without permission and had woken her and her son. The caller confirmed that she did not know Hagemier and that she had entered her apartment uninvited. Police attempted to administer a portable breath test due to Hagemier having slurred speech and their prior interaction with her at a bar earlier in the day where they suspected she was on meth. Deputies from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department assisted, and a Portable Breath Test was later administered that showed no alcohol. Deputies later asked Hagemier if she had taken drugs and she allegedly told police she had taken meth. Hagemier was arrested for residential entry and transported to the Lawrence County Jail.

Friday, January 31st, 2025

Orange County Deputy Zac Andry is improving after being shot multiple times during a traffic stop on January 3rd. Andry was removed from a ventilator and taken out of sedation last week. The deputy is now beginning occupational, physical and speech therapy. An account has been set up at Springs Valley Bank and Trust in French Lick to help Andry and his family cover medical expenses. Austin Schepers was the man who shot Andry and he was tracked down and eventually killed by police officers in Louisville. 37 year old James Adams was also arrested for his role in the shooting.

On Wednesday, around 4:39 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 call regarding a man, 79 year old Jasper Combs of Crothersville, who had fallen through the ice on Elk Creek Lake in Salem and was still in the water. First Responders arrived on the scene and were informed that a second man, 66 year old Bernard Ray Broadus of Georgetown had also fallen through the ice while attempting to rescue Combs. Broadus was able to pull himself out of the water and walk back to his vehicle. He was evaluated by members of the Washington County Ambulance Service and then transported to the University of Louisville Hospital by Air Methods medical transport. Members of the fire department, along with police made their way on foot around the lake to reach Combs. Gibson Township First Responders were able to approach him and throw a rope. Combs was pulled out of the ice and he was assisted him to shore. Members of the Gibson Township Fire Department, Salem Fire Department, Scottsburg Fire Department, and Austin Fire Department carried Combs around the lake back to the boat ramp. He was evaluated by the Washington County Ambulance Service and transported to the University of Louisville Hospital by Air Methods medical transport.

A 13-year-old Bedford male is facing juvenile delinquency charges following a domestic altercation at a residence on 26th Street on Wednesday. According to a probable cause affidavit, police were called on Wednesday to a disturbance involving a male juvenile who allegedly assaulted his stepmother. The incident began when the teen’s grandmother called his stepmother to pick him up due to behavioral issues. The child was not listening and was being verbally abusive. The report said that the situation escalated after the stepmother attempted to discipline the Juvenile and the he allegedly responded by striking her and briefly choking her. The juvenile was detained and taken to the Bedford Police Department where he was released to his father’s custody with a promise to appear at a February 5th hearing. The teen faces juvenile delinquency charges related to domestic battery and strangulation. No serious injuries were reported in the incident.

Thursday, January 30th, 2025

Two men were hospitalized after they fell into an iced over lake in southern Indiana on Wednesday. First responders were called to Elk Creek Lake in Salem on Wednesday afternoon on a report that a man fell in while ice fishing. Three other men who were also on the lake ice fishing tried to help rescue the man. One of the those men attempting to help also fell into the lake. A volunteer firefighter was able to walk around the lake in rugged terrain and throw a rope to the first man that fell into the lake. The other man that fell in was also rescued by first responders.  Both men were flown to UofL Hospital in Louisville and their conditions are unknown at this time.

A Shoals man was arrested on Friday after he was pulled over for a traffic violation in Bedford. According to a police affidavit, the incident occurred around 11:50 p.m. when an officer observed a gray 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage failing to signal a right-hand turn at Norton Avenue and John Williams Boulevard and weaving within its lane. During the stop, police made contact with the driver, who was identified as 54 year old Jerry Luna of Shoals. Whille talking with Luna, police noticed the strong odor of alcohol from the vehicle. Luna’s speech was slurred, and his eyes appeared glossy and bloodshot. Police asked Luna to perform standardized field sobriety tests which Luna showed physical and mental signs of impairment. A preliminary breath test showed Luna had a blood-alcohol level of 0.134 percent. Luna was arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, OWI endangerment, and operating a vehicle with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08.

Wednesday, January 29th, 2025

On Friday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on State Road 66 in Marengo when they observed a vehicle with a broken taillight and missing bumper. The Trooper made a traffic stop on the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 32 year old Rusty McCurry of Marengo. According to police, McCurry showed visible signs of impairment. Since there was an adult passenger and minor children in the vehicle, Police called for other officers to assist and McCurry was transported to the Crawford County jail for a chemical test. McCurry was arrested and is facing a charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Passenger Less Than 18 Years Old. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Department also assisted at the scene.

On Saturday, Jasper Police were called to a report of a hit and run incident near 15th and Newton Streets. Police were notified that the suspected vehicle was a 2011 gray Chevy Impala. The vehicle was later located on Wilhelm Strasse and police made contact with the driver. The driver was identified as 44 year old Tony Grannan of Jasper and while talking with Grannan, police observed signs of intoxication and noted that he was in an indecent state. Despite a warrant for a blood test, Grannan allegedly refused all tests. Police then arrested him and took him to the Dubois County Jail on charges of obstruction of Justice, Operating While Intoxicated with Endangerment, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Public Intoxication, Operating While Intoxicated and Public Nudity.

A Bedford couple is facing multiple charges following an investigation into injuries sustained by a nine-year-old and alleged medical neglect of a fourteen year old. The investigation began on August 7th, 2024, when 32 year old Candaclynn Jenkins-Johnson’s 9 year old daughter was brought to IU Health Bedford Emergency Room with a severely bruised and broken arm. Jenkins-Johnson initially claimed the injury occurred at a hotel pool in Ohio on August 3rd. The investigation found that the family had actually checked into the Ohio hotel on August 1, with the child’s arm already injured before the trip began. During a forensic interview at Susie’s Place in Bloomington, the nine year old said that her injuries occurred at home before the vacation. The child’s 17 year old step brother also provided testimony that supported this timeline, stating he noticed the child’s arm in a sling when he was picked up for the vacation. The second neglect charge stems from allegations regarding Jenkins-Johnson’s 14 year old daughter who has cerebral palsy. Medical records indicate that Jenkins-Johnson failed to properly administer prescribed medication that manag ed her daughter’s condition. The case was filed with the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office for formal review, and warrants were issued for the arrest of Candancelynn and 42 year old Eric Johnson. They were arrested on Monday and charged with two felony counts of neglect of a dependent and battery on a child under the age of 14.

Tuesday, January 28th, 2025

A residential fire has led to the death of a Perry County man on Sunday. On Sunday around 6:40 p.m. Central Dispatch received a 911 call reporting smoke at a residence near Gatchel in Perry County. Anderson Township Fire Department, EMS, and law enforcement were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival at 13501 Old State Road 37, first responders found the resident, 59 year old Larry Cronin, inside the structure. He was found unresponsive, and CPR was immediately initiated. Perry County Emergency Medical Services transported him to Perry County Memorial Hospital where he later was pronounced dead. This matter remains under investigation.

Monday, January 27th, 2025

The Orange County Tourism Commission met for their first meeting of 2025 Thursday morning in Paoli.  The session also served as the group’s annual reorganization for the new year.  Robert F. Henderson was tapped to continue to serve as President of the Commission with Steve Stewart as Vice President.  Kara Schmidt was reelected as treasurer and Jeff S. Cunningham will continue to serve as Secretary. Meeting dates for 2025 were set and are as follows: March 27 th, May 15 th, July 17 th, September 18 th and November 20 th. All meetings start at 10 am and are held at the Orange County Complex in Paoli unless otherwise advertised. In other business, the new Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)  Executive Director Joe Lannan was present to introduce himself to Commission members and briefly share his vision for Visit French Lick/West Baden.  A native of Martin County, Lannan joined the Orange County CVB staff in December. Commission members learned that the Orange County Commissioners had appointed Brandy Terrell to the group replacing Mark Jones whose term had expired at the end of 2024.  Other members of the commission include Janelle Springer and Steve Hopper.

Amanda Seng, Compliance Analyst at the Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company, recently completed the BSA/AML Institute, a professional certification program, sponsored by the Community Banker University and was named the Bank’s BSA Officer. To earn this certification, Amanda attended the recent ICBA BSA/AML Institute and successfully completed the certification examinations covering the fundamental concepts of BSA/AML regulations and their applications. Amanda began her banking career with Springs Valley in 2021 as a Commercial Loan Processor. During this time, she has also served as an Adjunct Professor of Economics at Vincennes University Jasper Campus. She is a 2014 graduate of Northeast Dubois High School. Amanda continued her education at Western Kentucky University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in 2018. She then received her Master of Business Administration in 2019 from Western Kentucky University. She currently resides in Dubois.

On Tuesday around 3:36 pm, members of emergency services responded to the intersection of Farabee Road and State Road 60 East near Salem for a two vehicle accident. Police arrived on the scene and found a black 2014 Ram 1500 along the shoulder of the northbound lane and a gray 2014 Buick Enclave along the shoulder of the southbound lane. Both vehicles had substantial damage. 64 year old George Smith of Salem was identified as the driver of the Ram 1500, while 26 year old Essokila Leoude of Louisville, Kentucky was identified as the driver of the Buick Enclave. Evidence at the scene and driver statements indicate Smith was traveling north on State Road 60 East. As Smith approached Farabee Road, Leoude pulled out of Farabee Road and turned south onto State Road 60 East. Smith’s Ram struck the rear driver’s side of the Buick causing it to spin off the shoulder of the southbound lane and come to a rest. The Ram continued traveling north after the collision until coming to a stop on the shoulder of the northbound lane. Both drivers refused medical treatment at the scene. Members of the Pierce/Polk Volunteer Fire Department and the Washington County Ambulance Service also assisted in the incident.

Thursday, January 23rd, 2025

A Bedford woman is facing multiple felony charges following a domestic disturbance that occurred at her Bedford home. Police responded to a call at 95 Liberty Bell Street in Bedford after a male reported that his wife was threatening him with a knife. The incident allegedly began during an argument about the male’s trip to Tennessee. The situation escalated and led to a confrontation that moved to the driveway where a 2018 Jeep Compass was parked. Police found that RING camera footage had captured portions of the incident. The footage allegedly showed the suspect, identified as 52 year old Kelly Bridges of Bedford wielding a butcher knife and demanding a phone while confronting the victim near the vehicle. The recording also showed damage being inflicted on the vehicle. During the altercation, Bridges sustained injuries to her hand and was located by Police on the East Oolitic Bridge. She was taken to IU Health Bloomington Hospital for treatment, the victim was uninjured. Police documented evidence at the scene, which included damage to the Jeep and blood droplets from both inside and outside the residence. The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. She was arrested on Saturday at 11:20 p.m. on charges of criminal confinement while armed with a deadly weapon and Intimidation with a deadly weapon.

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

On Sunday around 3:22 pm, members of emergency services responded to a motor vehicle accident on State Road 56 West, near Mt. Tabor Road. Police arrived on the scene and found a silver 2016 Chrysler Town and Country minivan on its side, off the south side of the roadway and a red 2021 Ram 1500 off the north side of the roadway. 44 year old Daniel Shelter of Salem was identified as the driver of the pickup truck, while 67 year old Kathryn Henderson of Paoli was identified as the driver of the minivan. Shelter also had a four year old passenger in the back seat of his vehicle. Evidence at the scene and driver statements indicated Henderson was traveling west, when she encountered a large portion of the roadway covered in ice. Henderson’s vehicle went into a skid causing her to cross the centerline and collide with Shelter’s vehicle, who was traveling eastbound. Henderson’s vehicle traveled off the south side of the roadway and overturned in the ditch, while Shelter’s vehicle traveled across the westbound lane and came to a rest, off the north side of the roadway. The Washington County Ambulance Service evaluated all parties involved in the accident and everyone refused further medical treatment. Police were assisted by members of the Salem Fire Department.

A Mitchell man was arrested over the weekend after a suspicious incident at a Mitchell gas station. Around 10:32 a.m. on Saturday, Mitchell Police responded to a report of a suspicious person at the Marathon Gas Station on State Road 37. A witness told police they observed 62 year old John Hall of Mitchell drinking in his vehicle, prompting the call. Upon arrival, police made contact with Hall, who initially denied consuming alcohol. Police then asked him to show what he was drinking and Hall allegedly admitted to drinking beer and produced an open beer can. Hall consented to a preliminary breath test which determined his blood alcohol content which was unable to be read. Police then requested a blood draw kit from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department. Police then conducted field sobriety tests on Hall, which revealed further signs of intoxication. Based on these results, Hall was placed under arrest for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Hall agreed to submit to a blood draw, which was conducted at IU Health in Bedford. The blood test results are still pending. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are awaiting the results of Hall’s blood test to determine the final charges.

Saturday, January 18th, 2025

A second person has been arrested after investigators believe he was involved in assisting the suspect wanted in the shooting of an Orange County Deputy Sheriff on January 3rd. On January 3 rd, just before 1:00 AM, Orange County Deputy Sheriff Zac Andry stopped to check on a disabled vehicle in the roadway at US Highway 150 and State Road 56.  During the interaction with the driver, Austin Schepers, Schepers shot Deputy Andry multiple times and fled the scene.  Hours later, Schepers fled to a residence in the 1800 block of Market Street in New Albany. Through their investigation, Police believe 37 year old James Adams of Commiskey had arrived at the apartment on Market Street on at the request of Schepers.  Investigators believe that Adams knew of the situation that Schepers was in, and that he was instrumental in helping Schepers get to Louisville where Schepers was found on January 4 th. Adams was already incarcerated in the Scott County Jail on unrelated charges.  The warrant for his arrest through Floyd County was served on Adams at the Scott County Jail. Adams faces charges of Assisting a Criminal and False Informing.

On Wednesday around 4pm, the Orleans Fire Department were dispatched to the intersection of East Liberty Road and Franklin Street for a reported car fire. First arriving units reported a working car fire along with a 2 car motor vehicle accident with possible injuries at the exact same location. Engine 18 arrived and split crews to cover both incidents. One driver drove themselves to the hospital to be checked out. No injuries were reported during the fire. Assisting at the scene were the Orleans Police Department and Orange County 911 Dispatch Center.

Green Acres Golf Course in Paoli is hosting a Zac Andry Family Fundraiser Dinner on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The event begins at 3:30 p.m. and on the menu will include pork loin, creek baked potatoes, baked beans, and slaw. The dinner costs $20 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the Andry family. Community members are encouraged to call ahead and reserve their spot by contacting 812-723-2110 or 812-653-9835. Green Acres Golf Course is located at 1345 W. Leonard Circle, Paoli, IN. This event offers an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a local family in need.

Friday, January 17th, 2025

62 year old David Searcy has been sentenced to 60 years in the Indiana Department of Correction following his conviction on 10 counts of possession of child pornography. Each count carries a six-year sentence, which the Court ordered to be served consecutively. The sentencing comes after a jury returned 10 guilty verdicts in November 2024 following a trial in Orange County. Evidence presented during the trial showed that Searcy knowingly accessed and possessed illegal materials depicting sexual conduct involving minors, including images dating back as far as 2014. These crimes are serious violations of Indiana laws designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse.

Firefighters to a car fire on Tuesday around lunchtime in Jasper. According to Firefighters, they were called to a fire around 12:57 p.m. on Tuesday when they were called to the Germantown Shopping Complex. When firefighters arrived, they found a van completely engulfed in flames. Fire personnel quickly put out the fire, which was isolated to the van. Damages to the vehicle were too extensive and firefighters were not sure what exactly caused the fire, but suspected it was fuel-related. The department responded with 28 firefighters and three trucks. One truck was on the scene for around 25 minutes. No injuries were reported, and the van was a total loss.

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

A Mitchell man faces multiple charges following a shooting incident at a Bedford motel Sunday night. Police responded to a report of shots fired near the Mark III Motel at 1709 M Street in Bedford around 10:02 p.m on Sunday. According to witnesses, they saw a man in dark clothing firing shots in the alley west of the motel. Police later recovered two 9mm shell casings in the alley. Surveillance footage showed a man matching the description from the witness entering Room 104 shortly after the incident. Police then obtain ed a search warrant for the room and took the occupant into custody around midnight, who was identified as 42 year old Stefan Wisnewski of Mitchell. During a search of the room, police found a Taurus G3c handgun with ammunition matching the casings found in the alley. Police also found a child that was present in the room which led to involvement from the Lawrence County Department of Child Services. Wisnewski faces multiple charges including Criminal recklessness with a firearm, Unlawful carrying of a handgun, Neglect of a dependent and Possession of a firearm by a domestic batterer. Police records also indicate Wisnewski has prior convictions in Illinois for domestic battery and burglary.

Wednesday, January 15th, 2025

A Martin County man with extensive experience in community development and nonprofits has become the new executive director of Visit French Lick West Baden. Joseph Lannan has been appointed as the new executive director of Visit French Lick West Baden, Orange County’s convention and the visitors bureau. Lannan joined the organization in December and will take leadership of tourism efforts in a county where the industry generates an estimated $59.5 million dollars. The French Lick Resort, the county’s primary attraction, draws one million visitors annually and employs around 1,000 people. Orange County’s tourism assets include the historic French Lick Resort with its two hotels and casino, Paoli Peaks ski area, Patoka Lake, French Lick Scenic Railway, and various wineries and attractions within the Hoosier National Forest. Lannan reports that local tourism venues are experiencing consistent growth, with events drawing larger yearly crowds. The CVB, funded by the county innkeeper’s tax, operates under the Tourism Commission. The organization provides visitor information from its office on State Road 56 and runs The Brick Exchange gift shop.

A Bedford man faces multiple charges following a Sunday night crash that sent two teenagers to the hospital. Police were called to Old State Road 37 near Crest Motel Road in Bedford. At the scene police found two teens in a black Ford Mustang that were seriously injured. The driver, 18 year old Hunter Chambers suffered a compound fracture to his ankle and multiple injuries. His passenger, 18 year old Dylan Hall sustained a head injury resulting in memory loss of the incident, along with facial lacerations and ankle injuries. According to police reports, officers detected signs of intoxication when speaking with the driver of the other vehicle identified as 53 year old James Page of Bedford. A certified breath test later showed Page had a blood alcohol content of 0.138% and Page allegedly admitted to drinking alcohol earlier that day. Page was arrested on charges of operating while intoxicated causing injury and operating with a blood alcohol content over 0.08%. He was taken to IU Health for medical clearance before being transported to the Lawrence County Jail.

State Sen. Eric Koch, a Republican out of Bedford is authoring a Senate Republican agenda bill to protect Indiana's water resources. It was unveiled during a  press conference last week led by the Indiana Senate Republican Caucus leadership reviewing their caucus's priorities for the 2025 legislative session. Senate Bill 4 would require a permit for basin-to-basin water transfers and other large, long-distance water pipeline projects.  Entities applying for a basin-to-basin permit with the  Indiana Department of Natural Resources would need to provide hydrologic and environmental impact assessments of the source area, and alternate water sources that could be used in place of the proposed source. For long-haul water pipelines, even if the water is staying within the same geological basin, a permit would be required from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.  Senator Koch serves as chairman of the  Senate Committee on Utilities, ranking member of the Senate Committees on  Judiciary and  Commerce and Technology, and member of the  Senate Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law. As the 2025 session gets underway, Koch encourages residents of Senate District 44 to contact him with any questions or comments they may have. Koch can be reached by filling out a " Contact Me " form online at  www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Koch or by phone at 800-382-9467. 

Sunday, January 12th, 2025

A New Albany woman is in jail after investigators believe she participated in assisting the suspect wanted in the shooting of an Orange County Deputy Sheriff last Friday. On January 3rd, just before 1:00 AM, Orange County Deputy Sheriff Zac Andry stopped to check on a disabled vehicle in the roadway at US Highway 150 and State Road 56. During the interaction with the driver, Austin Schepers, Schepers shot Deputy Andry multiple times and fled the scene. Hours later, Schepers fled to a residence in the 1800 block of Market Street in New Albany. Through their investigation, police believed 35 year old Victoria Howard of New Albany knew that Schepers had allegedly shot a police officer and that he was wanted by law enforcement. Howard allegedly used the ride-sharing app Lyft to provide Schepers a ride from her apartment in New Albany to Craig Street in Louisville, one block west of Wheeler Avenue. Schepers was ultimately found on January 4th at a residence in the 3700 block of Wheeler Avenue. Howard was arrested without incident on Thursday in Clarksville. She was taken to the Floyd County Jail. Investigators believe additional charges will be forthcoming against additional individuals responsible for assisting Schepers while he was wanted by police. Howard faces charges of Assisting a Criminal and False Informing.

On Wednesday night, around 6:40 p.m., Indiana State Police and Martin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle crash on US 50 east of State Road 450 just west of Shoals. Preliminary investigation indicated 58 year old Paul Davis of Shoals, was driving a 2016 Cadillac SUV eastbound on US 50, and 21 year old Jonathon Kauffman of Washington was driving a 2010 Mack semi-tractor trailer westbound on US 50. The vehicle Davis was driving, lost control, traveled sideways into the westbound lane, and collided with the semi-tractor trailer. Davis was pronounced dead at the scene by the Martin County Coroner. Kauffman was not injured. This case is still under investigation. Also assisting at the scene were the Martin County Coroner’s Office, Martin County Ambulance Service, and Shoals Fire Department.

Thursday, January 9th, 2025

A Lawrence County man has been charged with multiple felonies following an incident that ended with a police pursuit in Orange County in 2024. According to the probable cause affidavit, on January 25th, 2024 the incident occurred when the victim went to help 38 year old Spencer Clark of Mitchell after he ran out of gas on Tunnelton Road. When Clark came back, he discovered his vehicle was missing and allegedly became angry, demanding the victim drive. He also threatened violence against her if she stopped. The situation culminated in Orange County when police attempted to pull the vehicle over. When the victim continued driving for three miles under threat before finally pulling over. According to police reports, Clark then exited the vehicle, while holding a knife to his throat and challenging police to shoot him. Police finally detained both individuals with Clark being arrested on an existing Lawrence County warrant. Clark was later transferred from the Orange County Jail to Lawrence County Jail on February 1st, 2024. During a police interview, Clark denied threatening the victim with a knife, claiming he had only threatened self-harm. Detectives forwarded the information to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for Clark’s arrest on charges of intimidation with a deadly weapon, criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, and criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon. He was arrested at 12:30 p.m. on January 3rd.

A Lawrence County man was arrested for a third time on Tuesday after allegedly violating a protective order. 3 7 year old Cory Allen Jacks of Mitchell was arrested on Tuesday after reportedly sending a text message to through a third person requesting she contact the protected party about returning a gun. During the arrest at his Mitchell residence, Jacks reportedly became combative and made several suicidal statements and transported to Lawrence County Jail. While being interviewed, Jacks allegedly admitted to contacting his ex-girlfriend to contact another woman through third-party communication. This incident follows multiple previous protective order violations, including violations while previously incarcerated. Jacks faces a Class A misdemeanor charge of invasion of privacy.

A Jackson County man was arrested early Tuesday after a traffic stop during a snow storm led to the discovery of illegal substances in Bedford. According to the probable cause affidavit, around 3:48 a.m. on Monday morning, police observed a silver passenger vehicle parked in the westbound lane of 5th Street with its hazard lights flashing. Police approached the vehicle to check on the situation. Police made contact with the driver, identified as 45 year old Joseph Moose of Norman. Moose opened the door and told the officer that he had run out of gas. When police were talking to Moose, they detected the strong odor of burnt marijuana. He admitted that there was marijuana in the vehicle and was detained. Police then conducted a search search of the vehicle discovered two partially burnt hand-rolled cigarettes, a glass smoking device with burnt residue, and two metal grinders containing marijuana. A search of Moose’s person, revealed a black magnetic container that held several controlled substances. He was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. In addition, he was cited for operating a vehicle with an expired license plate and for failing to comply with a travel warning issued by Lawrence County.

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

On Friday morning around 12:50 a.m. Deputy Zach Andry stopped to assist a disabled motorist on SR-56 near the Prospect-Y US 150/56 intersection. Deputy Andry approached the vehicle and made contact with the driver who identified himself as Austin Schepers. Deputy Andry then returned to his vehicle and ran a license check on Schepers. Deputy Andry reapproached the vehicle and asked Schepers to step out of the vehicle because he detected the odor of an illegal substance coming from inside the vehicle. Schepers exited the vehicle, immediately shot Deputy Andry several times, and fled the scene. Within a short time, other officers arrived on the scene and found Deputy Andry lying on SR-56 suffering from gunshot wounds. EMS was immediately contacted and responded to the scene. Deputy Andry was initially taken to IU-Health Paoli before being transferred to the University of Louisville Hospital. A search for Schepers and his female passenger, later identified as Devan Owens, was immediately conducted by several County, State, and Federal Law Enforcement agencies. At 7:34 a.m. the vehicle Schepers and Owen were in was located near Orangeville abandoned. At 9:40 a.m. Owens was located near Orangeville and taken into custody. The search continued until 1:35 p.m. when a female reported Schepers held her at gunpoint and forced her to drive him to New Albany where she dropped him off. Indiana State Police then concentrated the search for Scheper’s in the New Albany and Louisville area. Officers were unable to locate Schepers in New Albany. On Saturday, Indiana State Police Detectives, Louisville Metro Police and United States Marshalls tracked Schepers to an area in southern Louisville. During the investigation, officers reported they had located Schepers, confronted and killed him. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will update everyone on Deputy Andry’s condition at a later dated. Deputy Andry remains at the University of Louisville Hospital where he is being treated for his wounds. Deputy Andry is from French Lick where he resides with his wife and children.

The Paoli Police Department received 5 new 800 MHz Harris Radios from Hoosier Uplands and their CEO David Miller. A donation came to a total of $15,000 dollars. With the recent shooting of a local deputies that launched a massive manhunt for a dangerous criminal, it became immediately apparent that the department was not properly equipped for such an awful event. The Indiana State Police took over the investigation and began coordinating the search efforts with local departments. Current VHF radio system did not allow interoperability with the state's 800 MHz radio system. Paoli Police were not able to communicate directly with the State or Federal agencies that had arrived to help. They however had one 800 radio on station that was recently purchased, that allowed local officers to monitor the radio traffic and relay it to everyone else. PPD contacted Hoosier Uplands and they immediately agreed to help. Their purchase gets half of the department having 800 radios. They still need funding for 5 more radios for officers to each have one at all times.

A Thursday morning traffic stop led to police discovering drugs and a stolen vehicle. On Thursday around 3:00am, A member of the Lawrence County Sheriff's Department conducted a traffic stop along SR 37 near SR 58. During the traffic stop, it was discovered the stopped vehicle, a 2014 Subaru, had been reported stolen from Bloomington on January 1st. Also during the stop, suspected cocaine and methamphetamine was located. Police arrested the male driver, identified as 32 year old Markeith Brown of Bloomington for auto theft with a prior conviction, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, and possession of a hypodermic syringe. Police also arrested the female passenger, identified as 30 year old McKenzie Sater/Harrison of Bloomfield for possession of methamphetamine and hypodermic syringes. She also had an active civil warrant through Lawrence County as well. Bedford Police also assisted with the stop.

Tuesday, December 31st, 2024

On Saturday, around 4:37 pm, Washington County Deputies and other emergency personnel responded to the area of State Road 135 North and Spurgeon Road near Salem regarding a two-motor vehicle accident with injuries. Deputies arrived on the scene and observed a 2018 Jeep Wrangler off the west side of the roadway with extensive front end damage. The driver of the Jeep was identified as 61 year old Larry Stark of Brownstown. Deputies also observed a 2013 Ford Fusion off the east side of the roadway with extensive front end damage. The driver of the Ford Fusion was identified as 25 year old Carrisa Shepherd of Salem. Members of the Washington County Ambulance Service, Salem Fire Department and Monroe Township Volunteer Fire Department worked to extricate Stark from his vehicle. Stark was then transported to U of L Hospital in Louisville for treatment of his injuries. Shepherd was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Salem and later transferred to U of L Hospital for treatment of her injuries. During the investigation, it was determined that Shepherd was traveling south on State Road 135, while Stark was traveling north. Both vehicles collided head on in the northbound lane. The collision remains under investigation at this time.

Gov. Eric Holcomb is directing flags to be flown at half-staff across Indiana in honor and tribute to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr. Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on from now until sunset Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Gov. Holcomb is also requesting businesses and residents to lower their flags to half-staff.

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs January 1 through March 31 of each year.  During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period:

• You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan.
• You can drop your Medicare Advantage Plan.
• You can return to Original Medicare. 
• You can add a standalone Part D Plan, but only if you dropped your Medicare Advantage Plan and returned to Original Medicare. 

Monday, December 30th, 2024

An early morning confrontation at a Warrick County gas station has resulted in the arrest of a Missouri, for multiple felony offenses. On Monday, around 12:01 a.m. EST, area police responded to Casey’s gas station located at 107 IN-68 in Lynnville, after a female was shot at. A preliminary investigation by Indiana State Police revealed 28 year old Eli Gunden drove up to a female that was inside her car in the parking lot of Casey’s gas station. Gunden made an unsolicited comment towards the female and the female did not respond. Gunden pointed a handgun from inside his vehicle and fired two rounds into the female’s vehicle. The female was not struck or injured and Gunden fled the scene in a Toyota, SUV. A short time later, the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office located the suspect vehicle on I-64. Gunden eventually fled and officers began to pursue him. The pursuit continued south on US 231, turned onto State Road 62, and then back north on US 231. Gunden pulled over to the side of the road and refused to exit the vehicle. After about a two-hour stand-off. Gunden exited the vehicle without incident and was transported to the Spencer County Jail where he is being held without bond. This incident is still under investigation and charges are pending.

Friday, December 27th, 2024

IHSAA Commissioner Paul Neidig has announced that Orleans, Paoli and Springs Valley High Schools have received the IHSAA First All Team sportsmanship honor. Neidig said, “We want to acknowledge and congratulate those schools who have exemplified sportsmanship as indicated by their sportsmanship scores.” Schools must accumulate 100 points for consideration as a First Team All Sportsmanship School. Other schools in the Q-100 region receiving the honor are Crawford County, Perry Central, North Harrison and Northeast Dubois. Honorable mentions went to a total of 108 Indiana schools, including Heritage Hills, Jasper and Vincennes Rivet. Neidig said that ISHAA will also recognize schools at the end of the winter and spring seasons.

On Monday night around 6:10 p.m., Indiana State Police initiated a traffic stop on a 2009 Chevrolet SUV near Cannelburg for traveling 69 mph in a 45 mph zone and a non-working taillight. The driver of the Chevrolet was identified as 47 year old Kenneth Evinger of Montgomery. While speaking to Evinger, police recognized indicators of criminal activity. Evinger was ordered to exit the vehicle and he refused. Evinger then sped away from the scene and Troopers began to pursuit. During the pursuit, Evinger reached speeds near 100-mph. The chase continued onto rural county roads in Daviess County, where the Chevrolet left the roadway, lost a tire, and eventually got stuck in a ditch. Evinger fled on foot into a wooded area. Officers located Evinger hiding in the woods and he was arrested and transported to the Daviess County Jail. While officers were searching for Evinger, Troopers went to Evinger’s residence and observed more signs of criminal activity and applied for a search warrant. Inside the residence, Troopers located nine grams of suspected methamphetamine, over six pounds of suspected marijuana, controlled substances, and paraphernalia. Evinger faces charges of Dealing and Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance. Resisting Law Enforcement, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Dealing and Possession of Marijuana, Resisting Law Enforcement, Possession of Paraphernalia, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash and Criminal Recklessness.

Jasper Mayor Dean Vonderheide has announced Chad Dick as the new Chief of the Jasper Police Department, effective January 6th, 2025. Dick will succeed Chief Nathan Schmitt, who is retiring after serving in the role since August 2017. Chad Dick brings over 25 years of experience as an Indiana State Trooper, most recently serving as a Lieutenant at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. His extensive background includes expertise in law enforcement operations, community engagement, and leadership development. Assistant Chief Aaron Persohn, a seasoned officer with over 19 years of law enforcement experience, will lead the department in the interim until Chief Dick is officially sworn in.

Tuesday, December 24th, 2024

The Dubois County Community Foundation has named Isabella Harmon, a senior at Jasper High School, as the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship recipient for Dubois County. She is the daughter of Toby and Sheila Harmon of Jasper. Harmon was selected from a competitive pool of 160 applicants representing all four high schools in Dubois County. Known for academic excellence, leadership, character, and community involvement, Harmon plans to pursue a degree in psychology and neuroscience, aspiring to become a clinical or developmental psychologist. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, required fees, and up to $900 annually for books and equipment, supporting four years of undergraduate study at any eligible Indiana nonprofit college or university. Since its inception during the 1997-1998 school year, the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program has awarded scholarships to more than 5,300 Indiana students, providing over $490 million in grant funding.

On Thursday, A Mitchell woman was sentenced to the Indiana Department of Correction by Lawrence Superior Court II Judge Robert Cline after failing to comply with the terms of her probation. On January 18th, 29 year old Dyana Sims, of Mitchell pleaded guilty to Criminal Recklessness Committed While Armed with a Deadly Weapon, a Level 6 felony, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. She was originally sentenced to 545 days, with credit for 46 days served, and the remainder of her sentence suspended. She was ordered to serve 515 days on probation in exchange for her guilty plea. However, after failing to comply with the terms and conditions of her probation, on December 19th, Judge Cline revoked Sims’ suspended sentence and sentenced her to 490 days in the Indiana Department of Correction and terminated her probation as unsuccessful.

Dubois County Prosecutor Beth Schroeder has filed one count of murder against 20 year old Jakahri Keyshaun Curry of Macon Georgia for the shooting incident that occurred at the SureStay Hotel in Jasper on Thursday. After a confrontation between Curry and the victim 27 year old Lawrence Jonte Walker of Cleveland Ohio, Curry allegedly filed multiple shots at Walker. Other individuals on the scene rushed Walker to Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, where he eventually passed away due to his injuries. At that time, Curry went inside the SureStay Hotel, and when police arrived on the scene, they took Curry into custody without incident. Curry and Walker were both employees of an outside contracting company working in the area. On Monday, December 23, 2024, Judge Nathan Verkamp held an initial hearing for the Murder case filed against Curry. Dubois County Prosecutor Beth Schroeder requested that the court hold Mr. Curry without bond and the court granted that request. The matter is currently set for a status hearing on February 18th, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. The court also set the matter for a Jury Trial on April 22, 2025.

Friday, December 20th, 2024

Early Thursday, Jasper Police responded to a shooting incident at the SureStay Hotel in Jasper. Jakahri Keyshaun Curry of Macon Georgia was involved in a verbal dispute with Lawrence Jonte Walker of Cleveland Ohio in the parking lot of the SureStay Hotel around 2 p.m. The verbal dispute escalated, and Jakahri ultimately brandished a firearm and shot Lawrence several times. After the shooting, Jakahri retreated back in the SureStay Hotel. He was located and taken into custody by officers with the Jasper Police Department. Lawrence ultimately succumbed to his injuries at Deaconess Memorial Hospital. This is an ongoing investigation and charging information will be released at a later time. The Jasper Police Department were assisted by the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana State Police, and the Dubois County Prosecutor’s Office.

Thursday, December 19th, 2024

The Orange County Community Foundation has announced that Ayla Steele of Orleans High School as the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. She plans to attend Purdue University, co-majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, with aspirations of becoming a molecular biologist and university professor. Ayla is an active member of National Honor Society, Student Council, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and serves as co-captain of multiple sports teams. She is also a digital fabrication lab intern, a 4-H participant and does volunteer work, including involvement with the Community Foundation Youth Council. This scholarship, awarded to only one Orange County student each year, covers full-tuition and fees, along with a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and equipment.

An elementary school in southern Indiana is apologizing for excluding students from the school’s Christmas program. In a Facebook post from the school, they issued the apology after several complaints took off on social media. The details of the exclusion at Parkview Elementary in Bedford are not exactly clear, but the school's statement goes on to say that they are committed to treating all students with dignity, no matter their background, abilities, or any other characteristics.

State Police say a Bedford man recently surrendered to the Lawrence County Jail, after an arrest warrant was issued due to his possible possession of child porn. Officers began looking into Landon Staggs in September. They had gotten a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which indicated that Staggs had explicit content on his PlayStation account. In searching his home and devices, police say they found pornographic files. The man was arrested Tuesday.

Wednesday, December 18th, 2024

On October 31st, the Indiana State Police Jasper District initiated a criminal investigation after receiving information from the Indiana Department of Child Services concerning allegations of neglect on a two-month-old infant with extreme weight loss. The investigation revealed that 22 year old Pearl Crowder and 23 year old Isiah Beavers, both of Shoals, had allegedly neglected the infant child which resulted in the infant being rushed to the IU Bedford Emergency Hospital and later transported to Riley Children’s Hospital. The infant required emergency medical treatment to survive due to being unconscious from severe malnutrition. After reviewing the investigation, the Martin County Prosecutor’s Office issued an arrest warrant on December 13th, for Pearl Crowder and Isiah Beavers. On Monday, Deputies with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office arrested Crowder and Beavers on active warrants without incident. Crowder and Beavers were transported to the Martin County Jail on charges of Neglect of a Dependent Causing Catastrophic Bodily Injury to a Minor.

On Saturday, around 12:40 pm, Washington County deputies along with emergency services personnel were dispatched to the area of Voyles Road and New Bear Creek Road in reference to a motor vehicle collision with multiple people injured. Deputies identified the driver as 35 year old Cody Dabney of Louisville, Kentucky. Evidence at the scene and driver statements indicated that Dabney was traveling northbound on Voyles Road, in a 2005 Honda Civic. Dabney crested the steep hill at Bear Creek Road and the rear of his vehicle became loose, which caused the vehicle to go into a skid and travel off the west side of the roadway and collide head on with a tree, on the edge of a creek. Dabney was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Louisville, Kentucky for treatment of his injuries. 24 year old Jennifer Thompson of Louisville, Kentucky was a front seat passenger, 71 year old James Dabney was a rear seat passenger and a 1 year old rear seat passenger were transported to a hospital in Louisville, Kentucky for treatment of their injuries. Thompson had to be extricated from the vehicle by fire department personnel. The collision is still under investigation at this time. Also assisting at the scene were the Washington County Ambulance Service, Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Department and the Highlander Fire Department.

Master Troopers Ryan Conrad, Brian LaRoche, Trey Lytton, and Timothy Weisenberger have been recognized by Indiana State Police Superintendent Douglas Carter for achieving 25 years of service to the Indiana State Police. These Troopers graduated as members of the 58th Indiana State Police Recruit School in December 1999. Master Trooper Detective Conrad was assigned to the Versailles District after first attending Vincennes University with a degree in Conservation Law Enforcement. In 2001 Trooper Conrad transferred to Jasper District and patrolled Crawford County until 2020 when he received a permanent position as Detective. Trooper Conrad lives in Crawford County with his wife Crystal and three sons. Master Trooper Brian LaRoche spent two and a half years in the Army and five and a half years in the National Guard. Trooper LaRoche was assigned to the Connersville District after first attending Vincennes University with a Law Enforcement Degree before transferring to the Jasper District. Trooper LaRoche also led the Jasper District in OWI’s five years in a row and lives in Dubois County with his wife Cathy and two daughters. Master Trooper Trey Lytton was assigned to the Versailles District after attending the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana. In 2001 Trooper Lytton transferred to the Jasper District where he patrols Spencer and Perry Counties and lives in Spencer County with his wife and two children. Master Trooper Tim Weisenberger was assigned to the Versailles District after graduating from Vincennes University. In 2001 Trooper Weisenberger transferred to the Jasper District where he primarily patrols Orange County. Trooper Weisenberger lives in Orange County with his wife and son.

Monday, December 16th, 2024

Charges have been filed against two individuals involved in a road rage incident along Interstate 65 last Friday near Henryville. 30 year-old Kasey Haven of Salem and 64 year-old Ricky Hill of Henryville were in a sideswipe collision while traveling northbound on Interstate 65 near the 16 mile marker on December 6th, around 2:00 PM. Both Haven, driving a Ford Bronco, and Hill, driving a Chrysler Town and Country, did not pull over, and instead made gestures at each other and displayed a firearm to one another while continuing to drive north. Haven and Hill stopped on the off-ramp of Interstate 65 at the Henryville exit, exited their vehicles and confronted one another. State Police detectives believe Haven pointed her handgun at Hill and fired four times at him, striking him once in the arm. Hill was transported to University of Louisville Hospital and treated for the gunshot wound. As a result of an investigation, Haven was charged with numerous charges related to the shooting and transported to the Clark County Jail. An arrest warrant was filed through the Clark County Circuit Court for Hill. He was arrested on Thursday at his home in Henryville. Haven faces charges of Aggravated Battery, Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Intimidation with a Deadly Weapon, Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon, Pointing a Firearm at Another Person and Aggressive Driving. Hill was charged with Intimidation with a Deadly Weapon and Aggressive Driving.

An early morning, high-speed pursuit ended with the arrest of two Illinois women after the vehicle failed to stop on I-65. Around 1:20 Thursday morning, Police observed a Ford Mustang traveling at high speeds on I-65 southbound near the 12.5 mile marker. Police clocked the vehicle at 90mph in a posted 70mph zone and attempted a traffic stop; however, the vehicle accelerated as it continued southbound. The Mustang reached speeds of 130mph before eventually coming to a stop near the 9.5 mile marker. The driver then exited onto U.S. 31 northbound from the Sellersburg exit. The driver, later identified as 22 year old Lux Espranza Arellano of Saint Charles, Illinois, disregarded stop signs and traffic lights along U.S. 31 as she continued northbound. Arellano continued driving northbound on U.S. 31 at speeds more than 100mph. Police successfully deployed Stop Sticks deflating two of the car's tires. The Mustang eventually came to a stop near Craig Road and U.S 31 in Scott County, where Arellano and her passenger were taken into custody without further incident. Both Arellano and her passenger were transported to the Scott County Jail on charges of Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle, Possession of Marijuana, Reckless Driving, Suspended Vehicle Registration and Operating a vehicle while Never Licensed. The passenger, 23 year old Kassandra Soto Lopez of Elgin, Illinois was charged with Possession of Marijuana.

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Breanna Courter, a senior at Loogootee High School, has been named the Martin County Community Foundation’s 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. Breanna is the daughter of Brent and Melissa Courter. She will receive a full-tuition scholarship, along with coverage for required fees and up to $900 annually for books and equipment for four years. Courter plans to pursue a degree in Finance, though she has yet to decide which college she will attend. The Martin County Community Foundation commended the exceptional quality of local students, highlighting their commitment to their schools and community.

On Monday, around 2:24 pm, members of the emergency services responded to the area of State Road 60 East and Voyles Road in Washington County for a single motor vehicle accident. Deputies arrived on the scene and observed a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix off the south side of the roadway, on its top, in a shallow creek. Members of the Pierce/Polk Volunteer Fire Department and Washington County Ambulance Service extricated the driver from the vehicle. The driver was identified as 25 year old Cayce Dean of Jeffersonville. Dean was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Salem for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Statements and evidence gathered at the scene indicate that Dean was traveling east on State Road 60, when she traveled off the south side of roadway for an unknown reason. The vehicle rolled over onto its top and came to a rest in a shallow creek. State Road 60 East was closed for approximately 1 hour for the investigation and clean up.

57 year old Billie Davis of Bloomington has been sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for committing a federal hate crime. The sentence comes after Davis pleaded guilty to willfully causing bodily injury to a victim with a knife, because the victim was of Chinese descent. According to court documents, on January 11th, 2023, an 18-year-old woman of Chinese descent enrolled at Indiana University at Bloomington, was riding a Bloomington Transit bus. As the student stood to exit the bus, Davis reached for a folding knife and stabbed the student in the head several times. When Davis exited the bus, a passenger followed and confronted her about the stabbing. Davis used racist slurs when referring to the victim and claimed the victim posed a threat to the bus because she was Asian. Davis said she attacked the victim because she was of Chinese descent and so that there was “one less enemy.” The FBI Indianapolis Field Office and Bloomington Resident Agency investigated the case, with assistance from the Bloomington Police Department.

Wednesday, December 11th, 2024

The Orleans Chamber of Commerce has announced winners in its  2024 Residential/Business Christmas Lighting/Decorating Contest, which was judged on Monday night.  This year's best overall light display honors this year went to the following:
2024 Residential Winners:
Jeff and Robin Berning
John and Vicki Haag
Will & Sydney Owens

2023 Chamber’s Choice Winner:

Ed & Barb Sullivan,

2024 Orleans Business Winners:

Kirk Veterenarian, 130 W. Washington St.
Suddarth Real Estate & Company, 247 S. Maple St.
Flower Cottage, 437 N. Maple St.
Chamber officials wish to thank all those who participated in this year's contest and would like to encourage residents to take some time during the holiday season to view the many beautifully decorated homes that maybe found throughout the Orleans Community.

IU Health Bloomington and IU Health Paoli Hospital have been named by U.S. News & World Report to its 2025 Best Hospitals list as High Performing hospitals for maternity care. Only 414 hospitals of the 817 hospitals that submitted maternity data to U.S. News this year were recognized with the High Performing rating in this category, which is the highest distinction a hospital can earn for U.S. News’ Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings. In addition, hospitals awarded a “Best” designation excelled at factors such as clinical outcomes, level of nursing care and patient experience. Paoli was listed as a Maternity Care Access hospital by U.S. News, which recognizes those facilities that provide care to areas that would otherwise be maternity deserts.

Tuesday, December 10th, 2024

A crash Monday along State Road 56 in Washington County took the life of an Austin man and seriously injured a second driver. Around 7:31 AM Monday morning, 62 year old James Fox of Austin was traveling east on State Road 56 near Elk Creek Road. Investigators believe Fox crossed into the westbound lanes and into the path of 46 year old Jason Terrell of Bedford. Terrell was traveling west on State Road 56. Fox’s 2007 Chevrolet Silverado collided with Terrell’s 2013 GMC Sierra in a near head-on collision, which forced both vehicles out of the roadway. Fox was pronounced dead at the scene by the Washington County Coroner’s Office. Terrell was extricated from his GMC and was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital for his injuries. State Road 56 was closed for nearly four hours as the State Police Crash Reconstruction Team investigated the collision and the scene was cleared. The crash remains under investigation.

A Lawrence county woman was arrested after she was accused of depositing a fraudulent check and making unauthorized transactions. According to a probable cause affidavit, on May 30th, police were dispatched to Hoosier Hills Credit Union after receiving a report of check fraud. Police were provided with a statement outlining the fraudulent activity. The incident began when a check for just under $2,000, payable to 34 year old Audrianna Manning of Bedford, was deposited into an account using an ATM at Hoosier Hills Credit Union. Shortly after the deposit, several charges to various stores and restaurants along with a transaction to Cash App were made. According to the investigation, the debit card used for these transactions belonged to a joint account between Manning’s daughter and the father. Manning did not have authorization to use the account. Further investigation revealed that Manning attempted earlier to deposit the check via mobile app but was rejected because the check came back as altered or fictitious. Manning told police that she had received the check after signing up for an offer online that promised money in exchange for completing steps. She was unable to show police where she had found the offer. Manning continued to deny that she knew the check was fraudulent. Security footage and evidence from Hoosier Hills Credit Union confirmed Manning’s involvement, which include images of her depositing the check and using the ATM. She was arrested on Thursday on a charge of Fraud .

A road rage incident along Interstate 65 in Clark County Friday afternoon turned violent just south of Henryville. The initial investigation by police indicates that just after 2:00 PM, a white Chrysler Town and Country minivan and a maroon Ford Bronco sideswiped each other while traveling northbound on Interstate 65 near the 16 mile marker. While continuing to travel north, both vehicles were believed to be slowing down and accelerating while making gestures and motions at each other. Both vehicles came to a stop on the northbound ramp at the Henryville exit. The driver and passenger of the Chrysler, and the driver of the Ford, ultimately exited their vehicles. During the disturbance, the driver of the Ford fired shots from a handgun at the driver of the Chrysler. The driver of the Ford was detained by investigators. The driver of the Chrysler was transported by emergency medical services to University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville for treatment of gunshot wounds.

Monday, December 9th, 2024

On Thursday, an Elizabeth 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. Zachary Behr, plead guilty to possession of methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony, on December 14, 2023, as a part of a negotiated plea agreement with the State of Indiana. He was originally sentenced to 730 days, with 716 days 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, Judge Cline sentenced Behr to 714 days in the Indiana Department of Correction and terminated his probation unsuccessfully.

Friday, December 6th, 2024

On Thursday around 3:28 AM, the Springs Valley Fire Department Orange County Rural District 1 and IU Lifeline EMS were dispatched 7754 W Highway 150 W for a report of a fully involved structure fire, with unknown occupants. Police units arrived on scene and began evacuating occupants of the residential structure and provided scene updates for responding units. Orange County Fire Dispatch advised units that one person may still be in the structure. Engine 33 was the first arriving fire unit on the scene and found a fully involved barn as well as two motor vehicles on fire. Additional tankers were called to the scene for support. More tanker support was needed and the Dubois Fire Department was requested to the scene. The structure started collapsing in on itself making it difficult to reach the fire. During that time, firefighters were still unclear if one person was in the structure. Fire suppression efforts continued until 06:40 a.m. as the fire was marked under control. The status of a possible occupant was still unknown at that time. Due to the instability of the remaining portions of the structure and low light conditions, it was determined a search for a possible occupant was not safe and would resume upon daylight. It was later determined there was no occupant in the structure as the person was at another location. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation. Assistance from the Indiana State Fire Marshall’s Office was requested by firefighters.

On Wednesday morning, A Trooper with the Indiana State Police was working on US 50 near Washington when he observed a vehicle stop in the middle of the roadway obstructing traffic. Police made a traffic stop on the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 19 year old Quan Boyde of Washington. Boyde showed visible signs of impairment and police transported him to the Daviess Community Hospital for a chemical test. Boyde was arrested and transported to the Daviess County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Wednesday, December 4th , 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested on Monday after allegedly violating a No Contact Order issued against him after a domestic altercation earlier this year. On November 11th, a woman visited the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department to report that 33 year old Christopher Tolbert of Mitchell had been contacting her despite a No Contact Order being in place since April 16th. The woman told officers that she had received multiple text messages, phone calls, and voicemails from Tolbert after filing the No Contact Order. She also provided screenshots of the messages sent by Tolbert, along with over 400 voicemail messages which were included as evidence in the report. Tolbert’s messages and voicemails were all time-stamped after the issuance of the No Contact Order. The contact directly violated the court order and prompted authorities to take action. A warrant was requested for Tolbert’s arrest and he was arrested on Monday. Tolbert is being charged with invasion of privacy.

A Seymour man is facing charges after allegedly leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident in Bedford. According to a probable cause affidavit, the incident occurred around 5:21 p.m. on October 22nd when a driver was waiting in traffic to turn left onto Limestone Run Road. The Volkswagen Jetta that 39 year old Levi Lakes of Seymour was driving, failed to stop and collided with the rear of the car. Initially, Lakes pulled over and exchanged information with the driver. The driver also took photographs of Lakes and his license plate after being concerned he might flee. During the exchange, another motorist stopped to assist and parked behind Lake, preventing him from leaving. Lakes then grabbed his information and drove off. When police arrived at the scene, they were informed of the events. Lakes was later stopped by police on State Road 58 near Todd Lane. Lakes told the officer that he left because the driver became physically aggressive and he feared there would be a confrontation. A warrant was then issued for Lakes due to probable cause believing he committed the offense of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident. Lake was detained on that warrant on Monday.

Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024

A Sullivan County man was arrested after a Sunday night traffic stop in Martin County. On Sunday night, A Trooper with the Indiana State police was on patrol on US 50 in Shoals when they observed a vehicle speeding. The Trooper stopped the vehicle and spoke to the driver, who was identified as 34 year old Carl McKenzie of Shelbum. According to police, McKenzie showed visible signs of impairment. McKenzie was then transported to the Daviess Community Hospital for a chemical test. McKenzie was arrested and transported to the Martin County jail on charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Possession of Marijuana. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office also assisted at the scene.

Monday, December 2nd, 2024

A Lawrence County man was arrested last Monday after a traffic stop led to the discovery of a significant amount of drugs in his vehicle. The arrest occurred after police noticed a light blue Chrysler Town and Country with a faulty taillight traveling southbound on Lincoln Avenue in Bedford around 11:25 p.m. During the traffic stop, police made contact with the driver, identified as 35 year old Bradley Carter of Bedford. During the stop, Carter denied consent to search his vehicle and K-9 Castiel was requested to the scene. Castiel conducted a free-air sniff around the car and positively alerted officers to the odor of narcotics. During a search, police found a plastic bag containing a Schedule IV controlled substance, a small plastic bag with meth residue, a bag that contained a large stash of meth weighing 85 grams, a digital scale and several small plastic bags. Further investigation reveled additional drug-related items in the vehicle, including a glass smoking device, syringes, and a second syringe containing a clear liquid. A cellphone, believed to be related to the illegal activities, was also seized. Carter was taken to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of dealing and possession of meth, unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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