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Crime

Gina Williams, 50, Evansville, Arrested for DWI with BAC of .19%

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Monday, April 10, 2017, 7:23 AM

Posey County – Last night at approximately 9:30, Trooper Zackary Fulton was watching traffic while parked in the Schroeder Lane crossover on SR 66 when he observed a vehicle traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes.

The wrong-way driver was traveling in the passing lane and nearly struck another vehicle before Trooper Fulton was able to stop the vehicle on SR 66 at Downen Road.

The driver was identified as Gina Williams, 50, of Evansville. Fulton detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage and noticed her balance was poor when she exited her vehicle.

Further investigation revealed she had a BAC of .19%. Williams was arrested and taken to the Posey County Jail where she is currently being held on bond.

Arrested and Charge:

Gina Williams, 50, Evansville, IN

  1. Driving While Intoxicated-Endangerment,  Class A Misdemeanor

Arresting Officer: Trooper Zackary Fulton, Indiana State Police

Assisting Agency: Posey County Sheriff’s Department

All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police-Evansville District 35

Darjee Santosh, age 22, of Phoenix, Arizona, Arrested for Attempted Theft in Clay County

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Sunday, April 9, 2017, 9:35 AM

Clay County—Early this morning at 12:36 am, Indiana State Police troopers from the Putnamville Post were dispatched to the Pilot Truck Stop (Iron Skillet Restaurant) at 1035 West State Road 42 on a report of an attempted robbery. One arrest occurred and no injuries were reported.

During the investigation, a female employee stated she had completed her shift at the restaurant and was walking to her car when she was approached by a male asking for money. Impatiently, the male then attempted to grab her purse, ultimately verbally demanding her purse. Another employee observed the altercation at which time the male suspect attempted to flee, but was detained by the employee until the arrival of the troopers just minutes after the original call.

Troopers took the male into custody. While looking at the suspect’s 2001 Nissan Maximum, troopers located a glass smoking device and a small plastic bag on the driver’s side floorboard. The articles field tested positive for methamphetamine.

Arrested: Darjee Santosh, age 22, of Phoenix, Arizona
Preliminary Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine, Attempted Theft, and Possession of Paraphernalia…..Incarcerated in the Clay County Jail.

Darjee Santosh was reportedly traveling from Arizona to Ohio.

The case was investigated by ISP Trooper Kyle Hall. Assisting were ISP Master Trooper Todd Brown and Trooper James Crisp. The case will also be reviewed by the Clay County Prosecutor’s Office for any additional charges.

Under the Law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police-Putnamville District 53-Putnamville, IN

Brittney Winternheimer, 27, of Evansville, with BAC of .23%, Charged with DWI

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Saturday, April 8, 2017, 8:25 AM

Knox County – Early this morning at approximately 1:50 am, Trooper Brock Buchanan located a 2012 Jeep that was parked at an angle on the shoulder at US 41 and SR 241. When Buchanan approached the vehicle he noticed it was still running and the female driver was passed out behind the steering wheel. When the female finally came to she attempted to drive off, but the vehicle was still in park. Buchanan was able to shut off the vehicle from the passenger side. The female attempted to get out through the driver’s door, but she fell back into the vehicle and sat down on the floor board.

The driver was identified as Brittney Winternheimer, 27, of Evansville.  She was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes where it was determined she had a BAC of .23%. Winternheimer was arrested and taken to the Knox County Jail where she is currently being held on bond.

Arrested and Charges:

  • Brittney Winternheimer, 27, Evansville, IN
    1. Driving While Intoxicated, Class A Misdemeanor
    2. Resisting Law Enforcement, Class A Misdemeanor
    3. Refusal to Identify, Class C Misdemeanor

Arresting Officer: Trooper Brock Buchanan, Indiana State Police
Assisting Officer: Trooper William Campbell, Indiana State Police

SOURCE: Indiana State Police-Evansville District 35

Glen R. Weldon, 21, of Mongo, Charged with Arson

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Friday, April 7, 2017, 5:00 PM

LaGrange, IN – Indiana Conservation Officers have conducted an arson investigation resulting in charges against Glen R. Weldon, 21, of Mongo.

Weldon was booked into the LaGrange County Jail today on multiple charges, including five counts of arson, a Level 4 felony, and six counts of criminal mischief, a Class B misdemeanor.

Conservation Officers initiated the investigation in February after several wildland fires occurred on and around the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area. Several other suspicious wildland fires have occurred since on both state and private properties in LaGrange and Steuben Counties.

On March 22, a wildland fire was reported near Mongo in LaGrange County. After the Mongo Volunteer Firefighters extinguished the fire, an Indiana Conservation Officer interviewed Weldon, who confessed to intentionally setting several fires in the area since February.

Conservation Officers were assisted in the investigation by the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department, a Marion Fire Department canine named “Jersey” and her handler of the Marion Fire Department, LaGrange Fire Department, Mongo Fire Department and Orland Fire Department, Indiana DNR Wildland Firefighters and Personnel employed at the Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area, Orland Volunteer Fire Department, Howe Fire Department.

All charges are merely allegations and all people are innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

SOURCE: Indiana DNR Law Enforcement Division

Shelbyville Man Arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Narcotics & Possession of Heroin

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Friday, March 24, 2017, 1:52 PM

Several alert drivers called 911 this morning to report an erratic driver on I-465 just before 12:00 p.m. Emergency dispatchers received reports of a maroon Chrysler van driving at a high rate of speed northbound near Brookville Road, and was striking the concrete median wall several times. According to callers the van was believed to be traveling in excess of 90 miles per hour at one point. The rear tire of the van blew out however it continued driving northbound on the shoulder. Troopers were able to catch the vehicle just south of Pendleton Pike and get it stopped safely.

During the course of the investigation the driver, who seemed disoriented and unsteady, was alllededly found to be in posession of heroin and prescription drugs. Field sobriety tests were conducted by Trooper Corey Berfield and based on the results 52 year old Brett Cooper of Shelbyville was arrested for driving under the influence of narcotics and possession of heroin. Medics were called to the scene as a precaution and Cooper was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Blood test results for intoxication are pending.

Cooper was arrested on preliminary charges, actual charges will be determined upon review by the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

Investigating Officer: Trooper Corey Berfield, Indiana State Police

Assisting Officers: Master Trooper Shanna Kennedy, Master Trooper Matt Lawrence, Senior Trooper Stephon Mason, Trooper Susan Rinschler & K9 Maverick and Sgt. Dennis Scudder.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police

Government Agencies Collaborate on Sexual Predator Video

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The Indiana Department of Education, the Indiana State Police, and the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana released a training video designed to educate and inform school leaders and staff about sexual abuse.

The video will be distributed by the Indiana Department of Education to all Indiana school corporations, encouraging them to share with all members of their staff.

“Keeping Indiana’s students safe is a top priority,” said Indiana State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Jennifer McCormick. “Our goal is that every teacher, administrator, and coach in Indiana sees this video and is then better equipped to identify dangerous behavior patterns that may put students at risk. This powerful video is one way to get the message to those who can help identify and stop this behavior.”

“Protecting innocent children remains a top priority of this office,” said United States Attorney Josh Minkler. “We prefer to protect them through prevention and education but if not, sexual predators will face the hammer of federal prosecution.”

Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter said, “Parents, as well as elementary to high school age youth, expect teachers to be role models and mentors.” Carter continued, “Administrators and teachers need to know and recognize signs of child exploitation and what action to take when such abuse may be occurring; this video provides the guidance needed to address such circumstances.”

SOURCE: Indiana State Police

UPDATE: IMPD Officer Reportedly Shoots Man in Hand Near Run Inn Bar and Grill

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Sunday, March 5, 2017, 6:58 PM

Investigators have released the identity of the suspect involved in the incident early this morning. He has been identified as 23-year-old Ivan Tapley of Indianapolis.

Tapley has been preliminarily charged with criminal recklessness and carrying a handgun without a license. Tapley has been transferred from Eskenazi Hospital to the Arrestee Processing Center for booking. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will review the case and make a final charging decision.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at (317)262-TIPS (8477). All tips given via Crime Stoppers are considered anonymous.

*Note: The attached booking photo is from an unrelated arrest

Sunday, March 5, 2017, 9:08 AM

On March 5, 2017, just before 3:00 a.m., officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) were sitting in the parking lot next to the Run Inn Bar and Grill in the 6300 block of W 34th St due to recent issues in the area.

As the bar was closing for the night, a 23-year-old male exited, allegedly pulled a gun and began firing. An 8-year veteran officer with the IMPD, immediately exited his vehicle and gave verbal commands for the suspect to drop the gun. The suspect allegedly turned and pointed the gun at the officer at which time, the officer fired his service weapon, striking the suspect in the hand. The suspect went down and officers immediately called for EMS personnel and began rendering aid to the suspect. EMS personnel arrived and transported the suspect to Eskenazi Hospital with what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries. At the time of this release his condition had not changed. This advisory will be updated with the name of the suspect and preliminary charges once detectives release that information.

Investigators have taken all known witnesses down to IMPD Headquarters for formal statements and questioning.  If additional witnesses exist that have not yet talked with investigators, we urge them to call the IMPD Homicide Office at 317.327.3475

The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency responded to the scene to collect forensic evidence. The shooting is being investigated by IMPD’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT). A separate and independent internal investigation will be conducted, as is standard procedure in an officer-involved shooting, by IMPD’s Internal Affairs Unit to ensure compliance with departmental policy. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office is involved and will be consulted throughout the investigative process, which includes up to or including the Grand Jury, with civilian oversight. In addition, the IMPD Firearms Review Board will ensure the departmental use of force was reasonable. The involved officer, who is a eight-year veteran of IMPD, will be placed on Administrative Leave to ensure he receives coping services. IMPD’s wellness program will be available to address any concerns the involved officer may have.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at (317)262-TIPS (8477). All tips given via Crime Stoppers are considered anonymous. This release may be updated as more information becomes available.

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SOURCE: Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department

Feb 23 Update Delphi Homicides: Reward Up to $50,000

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Thursday, February 23, 2017, 3:52 PM

Delphi – Phone calls to the Delphi Murder Tip Line will now be answered at the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Major Case Contact Center, in Washington D.C. The tip line number has not changed. It is still toll free at 1-844-459-5786. Information can also be reported by calling 1-800-225-5324 (800-Call FBI). Callers will have to follow a few prompts to report their information.

Information is still be accepted through email at Abbyandlibbytip@cacoshrf.com.

There is a $50,000 reward being offered for information leading to the arrest of a suspect or suspects in the murders of Liberty German and Abigail Williams.

Information can be reported anonymously.

Thursday, February 23, 2017, 12:47 PM

At approximately 12:15 p.m. on February 14, 2017, the bodies of Abigail J. Williams, 13, and Liberty Rose Lynn German, 14, both from Delphi, IN, were found in a wooded area near the Delphi Historic Trail, east of Delphi, IN, in Carroll County. The teens had been reported missing the previous day by family members. Their bodies were discovered by volunteers who were helping in an organized search for the girls. Law enforcement is investigating the case as a double homicide.

Today, the reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect or suspects in the murders of Liberty German and Abigail Williams has increased to $50,000. The increase is because of a $9,000 dollar donation by the office of United States Representative Todd Rokita.

There have been approximately 3,900 tips received via phone and email. Approximately 1,900 of the tips were received after the release of a voice recovered from Liberty German’s cell phone.

The FBI is utilizing approximately 6,000 electronic bill boards, in 46 states, requesting information about this case.

The link of the audio of a suspect’s voice saying “down the hill” is available for download at www.in.gov/isp/delphi.htm.  The audio, and a previously released photo of a suspect, were obtained from the cell phone of Liberty German.

The Indiana State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department announced a monetary reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect or suspects in this case. The reward fund is currently at $50,000. The FBI has contributed $25.000, Indiana Packers Corporation has donated $10,000, the office of U.S. Representative Todd Rokita donated $9.000, and Lafayette Bank and Trust has donated $1,000.

The Indiana State Police Alliance (ISPA) has established an account for individuals or businesses wishing to donate to the Delphi Reward Fund. Checks should be made payable to the Indiana State Police Alliance Foundation. “Delphi Reward” should be entered on the memo line. Donations can be mailed to 1415 Shelby Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46203.

Citizens can provide information about this case by calling the Delphi Murder Tip Line at 1-844-459-5786.  Tips can also be reported by emailing Abbyandlibbytip@cacoshrf.com. Information can be reported anonymously.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police

Police Impersonator Arrested in Boone County

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Wednesday, February 15, 2017, 4:27 PM

A police impersonator was arrested on I-65 near Lebanon yesterday after being pulled over by the Indiana State Police. February 14th, 2017, at approximately 11:45 a.m.Trooper Luis Deffit was patrolling I-65 near the 136 mile marker when he saw a black SUV going 87 miles per hour in a posted 70 miles per hour zone. The 2013 Honda was pulled over for speeding at the 135.7 mile marker on I-65 southbound. Keith Neher, the driver of the Honda, verbally identified himself to Deffit as a police officer and produced a badge as well as a police identification card. He told the trooper he was a reserve police officer.

Based on Neher’s behavior Trooper Deffit was suspicious of the possibility of him being a police officer. Further investigation determined Neher was a former police officer, however he resigned in 2013 and currently has no police powers. Three handguns were found inside the vehicle. The guns, along with the badge and police identification were taken as evidence. Neher was arrested and transported to the Boone County Jail.

This is an ongoing investigation, since an arrest was made any further inquires into the status of this case should be made to the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

The Indiana State Police would like to offer the following tips to help determine accurate identification of police officers;

  • In the state of Indiana a police officer MUST either be in a marked police car, or in a police uniform to pull a car over.
  • If you’re being stopped by an unmarked police car, or a car your unable to determine to be a police car, you should;
    • Activate your flashers to acknowledge the officer
    • Turn on your interior lights
    • Continue driving at or below the posted speed limit
    • Find a well lit, well populated area to stop
    • It is acceptable to call 911 and give your location if you’re unsure if the police officer is legitimate.

Police report suspected police impersonators to your local police or by calling 911.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police-Indianapolis District 52

[UPDATE 2/16] Shelbyville City Police Respond to Report of Shots Fired Inside a Home

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Thursday February 16, 2017, 2:23 PM

February 15th, 2017, an autopsy on the remains of Steven Oliger was conducted by Coroner Robbie Stonebraker and Forensic Pathologist Dr. Sozio . Preliminary results of the autopsy indicate the bullet that struck Oliger was a .223 caliber round fired from the rifle of a Shelbyville Police Officer. The official autopsy report will not be available for several weeks.

The Indiana State Police continues to investigate the circumstances of this police action shooting. Chief Wiedner of the Shelbyville Police Department does not wish to release the identity of the involved officers at this point.

There is no further information to release at this time. The original release is below.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017, 4:31 AM

Late Tuesday evening of February 14th the Shelbyville City Police Department contacted the Indiana State Police to conduct an investigation of a police action shooting involving a member of the Shelbyville City Police Department.

Preliminary investigation by the state police has determined that shortly after 10:30 p.m. on the evening of February 14th officers of the Shelbyville Police Department responded to the report of shots fired inside a home located at 1103 Fallway Court, Shelbyville, IN 46176.  One officer arrived at the front of the address and spoke with a family member standing outside the home as two other Shelbyville City officers arrived and approached the back of the house off of Premiere Street.

As the two officers approached the home they saw a person later identified as Steven C. Oliger, 64, who was a resident of the home, on the back deck of the home, and he was armed with a revolver.  The two officers reportedly yelled out to the officer at the front of the house that there was an armed person on the back deck at which time Oliger is reported to have fired a shot from his revolver.  The officer at the front of the house then approached from the east side of the home and fired one shot from a .223 rifle toward the direction of Oliger, at which time Oliger fell onto the deck of the home and was later pronounced dead at the scene from an apparent gunshot wound to his head.

Members of the state police were at the scene through the evening and into the morning hours of February 15th continuing the investigation.  It is expected there will be an autopsy later in the day of February 15th to determine Oliger’s cause of death.

It is important to note this investigation is only a few hours old and it is not conclusive that the gunshot wound Oliger suffered was the result of being shot by the Shelbyville police officer.  State police detectives are also investigating the possibility Oliger’s wound to the head may have been self-inflicted with the revolver from which he had previously fired at least two shots.  It is anticipated the autopsy should provide more definitive information about the cause and manner of death.

Names of the involved Shelbyville police officers will be released by the Shelbyville Police Department within the next 72 hours.

No further information regarding this ongoing investigation is available at this time.  Once the autopsy has been completed there may be an update with preliminary information related to the cause and manner of death.

SOURCE: Indiana State Police-Indianapolis District 52