Crime / Police

Indiana State Police History: No Longer a Boys Club

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 3 Sep 2008 19:48:02 -0700

By Sgt. Noel Houze, Jr.
Indiana State Police

Since 1933, among the many prerequisites to become a trooper, being a man was always one of the main requirements. All that changed in 1973 when for the first time, the Indiana State Police began accepting applications from females. Superintendent Robert Konkle told the Indianapolis Star, “But they must meet the same physical qualifications as men.” At that time the state police rules required that applicants had to be at least 5 feet 9 inches and not more than 6 feet 5 inches in height, weight had to be at least 150 pounds and the applicant had to be between 21 and 35 years of age. The height and weight requirement automatically disqualified most women. Superintendent Konkle also said, “Any woman accepted to recruit school will go through the same training as a man. She will have to do the same number of pushups as a man. If she can’t lift her own weight, she can’t be a trooper.”

In the summer of 1975 the Department asked for volunteers among ISP’s civilian female staff to participate in a series of tests that were designed to help determine the physical criteria for female trooper applicants. Two committees were selected; one from within the Indiana State Police and one consisting of representatives from Indiana, Purdue, and Ball State Universities. Both committees submitted their findings to the University of Chicago which would evaluate all data submitted and then create a pre-employment screening test.

It wasn’t until 1975 however, that a woman was even interviewed to become a trooper. Karen Butt was the first female to be interviewed for a job as a trooper. She had applied for a recruit class that was scheduled to be held in early 1976 and that class would be the first ISP recruit class to have female recruits among its ranks. Although she wasn’t accepted for that class, she was called back later that year and would go on to attend the next recruit school and become a trooper. In June of 1976 however, a class graduated that started with four females and three endured the grueling training and graduated to become the first female Indiana State Troopers. Those “trailblazers” were Joyce Blanford, Patricia King, and Joan Maylater.

Joyce Blanford

Patricia King

Joan Maylater

While the first female troopers were able to prove their mettle in recruit school, they had to continue to overcome other hurdles in the field. In the mid 1970’s, new recruits were required to “live” at the post during their field training period. At that time ISP didn’t pay overtime so the rookie troopers had to work in the post during the day learning radio procedures and post administrative duties and then at night they were in the field riding with experienced troopers. Sleeping arrangements had to be modified to separate the rookie female troopers from the males. Among other concerns were those of the wives of troopers worrying about their husbands working at night with female troopers. Of course there were other issues that were simply the result of ignorance or bigotry. For example, Karen Butt recalls many times answering the phone at the post and the caller requesting to speak to a “real” trooper since it was a female who answered the phone.

Another issue that presented itself was the possibility of a female trooper becoming pregnant. Jill Rice, another of the early female troopers, was assigned to the Charlestown Post when she was a rookie. In the 1970’s there was no such thing as the Family Medical Leave Act or no maternity leave mandate. When Jill became pregnant, the Department had no policies in place to deal with such circumstances.

Over the years the Indiana State Police has hired numerous female troopers who have distinguished themselves among the Department and are now accepted as equals. Currently there are 59 female ISP troopers who are spread throughout the state and among the various ranks and specialty positions. Currently there are females holding supervisory and command positions up to and including the rank of major within the Indiana State Police. Throughout the years ISP has had and still has female troopers serving as members of the Tactical Intervention Platoon (formerly known as Riot Platoon), Field Training Officers, SCUBA Divers, Defensive Tactics Instructors, Firearms Instructors, and Emergency Vehicle Operations Instructors.

Because of the tenacity and dedication of those first female “pioneers” blazing the trail for the future, being a female applicant for a position as an Indiana State Trooper today is not really any different than that of a male applicant. Female troopers are now accepted with much less skepticism and are very much an established part of the Indiana State Police.

*NOTE-The source of portions of the above historical information: Gangsters, Gunfire, and Political Intrigue: The History of the Indiana State Police by Marilyn Olsen.

State Police Arrest Elwood Police Officer

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:07:38 -0700

PENDLETON, IN - Detective Keith O'Donnell arrested Shaun Andy Murray, 28, Anderson on today’s date for theft from the Elwood Police Department evidence room. He is alleged to have taken opiates (pain-killers) from the evidence room for his personal use. Murray is an Elwood Police Officer and their evidence room technician.

He was arrested today’s date at his residence in Anderson. He has worked for several police departments in Madison County, but most recently the Elwood Police Department. O’Donnell transported Murray to the Madison County Jail. Murray has posted a $5,000 bond.

Arrested and Charged

Shawn Andy Murray, 28, Anderson
Charged with Official Misconduct
Theft
Possession of a controlled Substance

Source: Indiana State Police

Richardson v. Fowler Jury Trial Begins in Anderson on Tuesday

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:29:50 -0700

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - A horrific collision on Satterfield Road on April 29, 2005 changed Vanessa Richardson’s life forever. Her bloodied head was smashed through the windshield, knocking out several of her front teeth. Perhaps most compelling, Richardson is an epileptic who was in remission at the time, and the violent collision triggered the return of epileptic seizures, which she has suffered ever since the accident. The defendant in the case has admitted liability.

The 6-person civil jury trial is scheduled to being this Tuesday, August 19 at 9:00am in the Honorable Jack Brinkman’s Madison Superior Court 2. The trial is expected to last through Thursday, August 21.

Gregory Laker and John Daly, partners with Cohen & Malad, Indianapolis, are representing Ms. Richardson in the lawsuit. Vanessa Richardson is a respected Speech Therapist in the Edgewood School District.

Founded in 1968, Cohen & Malad represents clients from throughout the United States in a variety of legal matters. For more information, please visit the firm’s website at: www.cohenandmalad.com

Source: Press Release

Bunker Hill Man Injured in Miami County Crash

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:06:50 -0700

PERU, IN - Today, at approximately 11:43 a.m., the Indiana State Police and Peru Police Department responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 31 and Miami County Road 100 North that injured a Bunker Hill, IN man.

Preliminary investigation by Indiana State Police Sergeant Rick Brown revealed that Terry L. Dean, 58, Bunker Hill, IN, was driving a 2006 Dodge pickup truck, owned by S.M. and P. Utility Resources, northbound on U.S. 31. Dean was stopped for a red light at the intersection of U.S. 31 and County Road 100 North when he was rear ended by a 2006 International tractor trailer driven by Alan M. Watkins, 36, Walkerton, IN. The tractor trailer is owned by Deans Transportation and was pulling an empty box trailer.

Dean was transported by ambulance to Dukes Memorial Hospital with a complaint of pain and lacerations to his head.

“This was a high impact crash, stated Sergeant Rick Brown “It serves as another example of safety restraints reducing the severity of injuries in a crash that could have been a fatality if both drivers had not taken the time buckle their seat belts.”

Northbound U.S. 31 was closed approximately two hours for cleanup of debris, diesel fuel, and investigation of the crash.

Sergeant Brown was also assisted at the scene by Lieutenant Matt Bilkey, First Sergeant Bob Land, Sergeant Bob Brinson, Master Trooper Randy Prior, Senior Trooper Joe Swisher, Trooper Mike Meiser, Miami County Sheriff’s Department, New Waverly Fire Department, Peru Fire Department, Dukes EMS, and Indiana Department of Transportation.

Two Charged with Trafficking in Separate Incidents

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:34:11 -0700

PENDLETON, IN - Indiana State Police Troopers arrested two suspects for trafficking with an inmate at the Pendleton prison this weekend. On Saturday, August 16, at approximately 3:00 p.m., Indiana State Trooper Andrew Sparks was dispatched to the Pendleton Correctional Facility and arrested Stephanie Lewis, 39, Indianapolis, for trafficking with an inmate.

Trooper Richard Clay was dispatched to the Correctional Industrial Facility at 3:27 p.m. in a separate incident in which he arrested Rebecca Sanchez for trafficking with an inmate. Both Lewis and Sanchez were transported to the Madison County Jail and incarcerated.

Arrested and Charged:

Stephanie Lewis, 39, Indianapolis
Charged with trafficking with an offender
Dealing cocaine-27 grams
Possession of cocaine
Trafficking a controlled substance

Rebecca Sanchez, 18, Indianapolis
Charged with trafficking with an inmate (Cell Phone and Tobacco)

Arresting Officers:

Trooper Andrew Sparks- (Charged Stephanie Lewis)

Trooper Richard Clay- (Charged Rebecca Sanchez)

Blast Faxer Faces Lawsuit for Sending More Than 1,000 Unsolicited Faxes to Hoosiers

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:37:32 -0700

New Jersey Based EZPMG offered Mortgage Services

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - A New Jersey company that blasted unsolicited faxes into Hoosier homes and businesses is the target of a lawsuit filed by Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter. The attorney general’s office received more than 1,000 complaints about EZPMG, Inc. faxes.

“For each fax brought to our attention, it is likely there were hundreds more that were unreported and caused headaches for people across the state,” said Carter. “We have heard from citizens in 51 counties who were supplementing the advertising costs of this East coast company thousands of miles away. One person in Pulaski County received as many as 200 faxes alone.”

The attorney general’s office received complaints from across the state about EZPMG faxes that were sent over an 11 month period from January, 2007 thru at least November, 2007. The faxes advertised mortgage services with some of these headlines:

Carter is asking the Court to halt EZPMG from violating Indiana law by sending unsolicited faxes. The lawsuit also seeks civil penalties of up to $1,500 per violation against EZ Precious Metals Group Inc. d/b/a EZPMG, Inc., and its president Kenneth B. Elias and another $10,000 for the company’s failure to obtain a certificate of authority from Indiana to transact business within the state.

The lawsuit has been filed in St. Joseph County Court.

Source: Attorney General Press Release

City of Anderson Enforcing .08 this ‘08

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 19:09:16 -0700

ANDERSON, IN - During a time of year that lends itself to widespread celebrations, the Labor Day holiday can quickly turn tragic when an impaired motorist gets behind the wheel. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), the 2007 Labor Day holiday period (6:00 p.m. August 31 through 5:59 a.m. September 4) was the second most deadly time of year on Indiana roadways, resulting in 11 alcohol-related fatalities and 18 alcohol-related collisions.

In an effort to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on Indiana roadways during the 2008 Labor Day holiday, the Anderson Police Department will join thousands of fellow law enforcement officers representing more than 250 state and local law enforcement agencies to launch the “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.” crackdown on impaired driving and motorcycle riding. This statewide campaign will take place from August 15–September 1.

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

“As we celebrate this Labor Day it is important to remember that driving is a privilege and not a right. As responsible drivers we must all assume accountability for our actions before getting behind the wheel,” said Chief Darron Sparks, “I especially want to urge all citizens to be proactive by designating a sober driver before celebrating. Exercising this simple precaution could ultimately save a life.”

Through high-visibility patrols, sobriety checkpoints and other enforcement efforts designed to deter impaired driving particularly during the high-risk nighttime hours, law enforcement will be on the look out for those who drive or operate a motorcycle while impaired or intoxicated during this high-risk time.

According to the 2008 Indiana Traffic Safety Alcohol Fact Sheet, published by ICJI, motorcycles, pickup trucks and SUVs were over-represented in alcohol-related collisions statewide in 2007 and were more likely to produce injury. Data also indicates that male drivers between the ages of 21 and 29 killed in motor vehicle collisions were legally intoxicated 43 percent of the time.

Source: City of Anderson Press Release

Posey County Man Loses Over $250,000 in Mail Scam

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:38:07 -0700

Indiana State Police recently launched a criminal investigation after receiving information that a Posey County man had lost over $250,000 through a sweepstakes scam.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim had received a document in the mail back in July from “Embassy International” informing him that he was the grand prize winner of the U.S. Sweepstakes. The document went on to say that participants were selected through a computer ballot system drawn from 15,000,000 names of individuals from all 52 states. Since the victim had won first prize, he was going to be awarded $5,500,000. The victim was also instructed he was responsible for all legal fees and state related taxes. He was informed that the tax money must be submitted and accounted for within seven days. The victim had sent Embassy International over $250,000 before realizing he had been scammed.

Indiana State Police want to remind everyone that scammers are preying on Indiana residents everyday. It is important to remember that if a deal sounds too good to be true, then most likely it is. Before sending any money to an organization that you are not familiar with, it’s important to contact your local Better Business Bureau or your Indiana State Police.

Source: Indiana State Police

State Police K-9 Alerts on Large Amount of Cocaine in Anderson

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 07:58:08 -0700

ANDERSON, IN - Indiana State Police Trooper Kendrick Donald’s K-9 "Murtaugh," who took to the streets in June, assisted the Anderson Police Department on Friday, August 8th with a large cocaine arrest.

Murtaugh alerted on a U-storage bin in the 3700 block of MLK in Anderson. The amount of drugs located by Murtaugh was 275 grams of crack cocaine, and 235 grams of cocaine. Officers also recovered $2000 in currency, one handgun, and two ballistic vests.

Murtaugh is one of 27 Indiana State Police K-9’s utilized throughout the state. Each Indiana State Police K-9 is trained in drug detection, tracking, evidence searches, building searches, and controlled aggression.

Arrested and charged:

Willie Earl Gosha, Jr., 29, Anderson
Possession of cocaine
Dealing cocaine

The Law and You – Some Popular Myths About Contracts

shasler — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 06:51:04 -0700

Contract law in one short article? Impossible. Not just hard impossible but impossible like climbing Mount Everest in the nude impossible.

Instead, I am just going to knock on some myths about contracts. That is more like climbing Mount Everest in a bathing suit.

Every Contract Has to Be in Writing. Nope, wrong. Contracts involving land and labor that will take over a year and certain consumer transactions must be in writing to be valid. A contract is an offer and an acceptance and that can be oral. Better that everyone writes down what was offered and accepted so that the written document can be used as evidence.

You Do Not Need A Lawyer to Write a Contract. This one depends on what will happen if the contract gets breached, how much will you lose if the deal goes bad. I say it is a gamble and the best place to gamble is at a casino and not with your business. Many years ago a client brought me an eviction, he had proudly bought his lease at Decker's (yes, it was that long ago) and talked about saving so much money on attorney fees. Problem was that the lease was pro-tenant and it cost him much more to get the person evicted than a would have a proper lease.

You Do Not Need a Lawyer to Read a Contract Before Signing a Contract. This is true – so long as the contract works the way you want it to. If the contract does no work out the way you wanted, then you get to pay a lawyer for litigation. Or you maybe you will have other costs. It seems a lot of the subprime mortgage crisis came about because people signed off mortgages without knowing what they were doing. Now they are dealing with foreclosures. While there are some times when a court will not enforce a contract, "oops, I didn't have my lawyer look it over first" is not a defense. The contracts where a court will not enforce a contract include: one side is mentally incompetent, one side is younger than 18 years of age, the contract is against public policy. (And what is against public policy? Contracting for illegal services is against public policy. This scenario proposed by someone would be – in my opinion – against public policy: “....the contract said a person had the right to, say, legally adopt your children if they didn't fulfill the terms of the contract....”). What you get is attorney fees for litigation instead of attorney fees for reading a contract. I call this penny wise and pound foolish.

Lawyers Are Dealbreakers. A friend used to say this to me. After some extended litigation, he no longer says that. The only deals that ought to be broken by bringing in the lawyers is one that would have been, probably should have been broken.

Any Contract Can Be Set Aside After Three Days. No, only sales at home can be set aside after three days.

I think that hits some of the high points. Now let me leave you with the best advice I can give about contracts: Get a lawyer because an ounce of prevention is worth more than a year or more of litigation and all those attorney fees.

State Police Uncover Large Marijuana Indoor Grow near Summitville

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:12:19 -0700

SUMMITVILLE, IN - This afternoon, March 18, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Indiana State Police officers executed a search warrant at a residence located at 17850 North 400 East Summitville. The farm is located approximately three miles northeast of the small town of Summitville near the Madison-Grant county line.

Indiana State Police Senior Trooper Larry Antic, Marijuana Eradication Coordinator for the Pendleton Post, stated, "This is the largest indoor marijuana grow operation since I have been coordinator for the Post."

When troopers entered a barn located behind the residence they found 849 marijuana plants ranging from three feet tall to eight inches tall. The marijuana plants were located in several different areas of the barn and growing under high-intensity grow lights. The plants would have had a street value of $849,000. Marcus Combs, 49, his wife, Denise Combs, 46, were taken into custody at the residence and transported to the Madison County Jail in Anderson.

Arrested and Charges:

Marcus Combs, 49, 17850 North 400 East, Summitville
1. Cultivating Marijuana over 30 grams, Class D Felony
2. Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Class D Felony
3. Conspiracy to Deal Marijuana

Denise Combs, 46, 17850 North 400 East, Summitville
1. Cultivating Marijuana over 30 grams, Class D Felony
2. Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Class D Felony
3. Conspiracy to Deal Marijuana

Investigating Officers: Troopers Larry Antic, Rob McKeeman, Lou Perras, Ron Halbert, T.J. Zeiser, Jeff Kastenschmidt, Paul Hansard, Mitch Blocher, John Perrine, Jeremy Mason, Jason Williamson, Jeff Franklin, and DEA agent Gary Alter

Storm Worm Virus Targets Valentine's Day

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 11:29:57 -0800

With the Valentine's Day holiday approaching, be on the lookout for spam e-mails spreading the Storm Worm malicious software (malware). The e-mail directs the recipient to click on a link to retrieve the electronic greeting card (e-card). Once the user clicks on the link, malware is downloaded to the Internet connected device and causes it to become infected and part of the Storm Worm botnet.

A botnet is a network of compromised machines under the control of a single user. Botnets are typically set up to facilitate criminal activity such as spam e-mail, identity theft, denial of service attacks, and spreading malware to other machines on the Internet.

The Storm Worm virus has capitalized on various holidays in the last year by sending millions of e-mails advertising an e-card link within the text of the spam e-mail. Valentine's Day has been identified as the next target.

Be wary of any e-mail received from an unknown sender. Do not open any unsolicited e-mail and do not click on any links provided.

If you have received this, or a similar e-mail, please file a complaint at www.ic3.gov.

Source: Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Press Release

Pursuit Ends When Suspect Vehicle Runs Out of Fuel

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 4 Feb 2008 17:00:54 -0800

ANDERSON, IN - On Monday, February 4, 2008, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Sergeant Jeff Zeiger of the Indiana State Police Pendleton Post, clocked a vehicle southbound on Interstate 69 in Madison County at 97 mph near the 40 mile marker.

An earlier dispatch from the Redkey State Police Post advised there was a red 2006 Jeep Cherokee with no license plates driving southbound Interstate 69 in Delaware County at a high rate of speed.

Sergeant Zeiger caught up with the vehicle at the 27 mile marker and pursued the vehicle with his red lights and siren on as the driver of the Jeep Cherokee continued southbound passing vehicles on the right and left shoulders of Interstate 69.

The Jeep Cherokee ran out of fuel at the 24 mile marker. While the passenger exited the vehicle and was handcuffed by Zeiger, the driver of the vehicle continued to attempt to restart the vehicle and ignored Sergeant Zeiger’s verbal commands to exit the vehicle.

After an approximate five minute stand-off, the driver exited the vehicle and was arrested. The passenger was ultimately not charged and was released.

The 2006 Jeep Cherokee was reported stolen on today’s date out of Macomb County, Michigan at 10:21 a.m. The vehicle was taken to the Indiana State Police Post at Pendleton to be processed.

Arrested and Charges:

Horton Ivory, 22, Mt. Clemens, Michigan

Charged with possession of stolen property, resisting law enforcement, and speeding.

Assisting at the scene were Trooper Nicholas Campbell, Trooper Steve Burns, Trooper Trent Roesch, Trooper Dave Preston and Preston’s K-9 Colt, Madison County Sheriff, and Pendleton Police Department.

Source: Indiana State Police

New Troopers at Pendleton Post

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 3 Jan 2008 10:47:32 -0800

PENDLETON, IN - Four new Indiana State Troopers reported for duty at the Pendleton Post on December 31, 2007. The four graduated from the Indiana State Police academy on December 21, 2007. Lt. Mike Lepper, Commander of the Post, stated "The four new troopers are a welcome addition to the Post to further increase our total Indiana State Troopers on road patrol."

The new troopers have received approximately 840 hours of structured training in law enforcement techniques since the class began on July 14^th. Their curriculum included 80 hours of criminal law instruction, 50 hours of vehicle operations training, 30 hours of psychology training, and 40 hours of "Survival Spanish."

New Pendleton Troopers

Matt Beaver graduated from Eastern Hancock High School and Anderson University. He will be residing in Greenfield and patrolling Hancock County.	Jeremy Mason graduated from Madison Grant High School and Ivy Tech College. He will be patrolling Madison County and residing in Summitville.
Jason Williamson graduated from New Prairie High School and Bethel College. He will be patrolling in Hamilton County and living in Carmel.	Richard Clay graduated from Blackford High School and Indiana Wesleyan University. He will be patrolling Madison County and residing in Ingalls.

The four troopers will participate in a 14 week Field Training Program where they will ride with a trooper trainer and apply the knowledge and skills learned at the academy in field situations. They will receive their patrol cars after successfully completing this program.

Source: Indiana State Police Press Release

Indiana State Police Offer Steps to Prevent Identity Theft

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 2 Jan 2008 22:52:51 -0800

PENDLETON, IN - Lt. Mike Lepper, Commander of the Pendleton Post, would like to remind citizens that Identity Theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America.

It's Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. and you check your answering machine and get a pre-recorded message from a major credit card company wanting to verify you made an $8,000 purchase at a local retail store in your town.

You are no longer who you say you are.

You now have to prove who you are.

You may even have to apply for a new social security number and make sure when you retire there is no confusion about your total earnings and receiving your benefits.

Attorney fees to get your life back and name back could run into thousands of dollars.

Sounds like a dream, but you awaken to the nightmare of getting your identity back.

It could happen to you!

Steps to prevent Identity Theft

1. Release your Social Security number only when absolutely necessary.

2. Do not have your Social Security number printed on your checks or driver's license.

3. When you order new checks have them delivered to your bank and not your home.

4. Order your Social Security Earnings Statement once a year to check for fraud.

5. Cross-Cut shred your credit card receipts, bills, and other financial information.

6. Order your credit report once a year to check for inaccuracies and fraud.

7. Do not leave envelopes containing bill payments in your mailbox.

8. Do not carry credit cards, social security cards, birth certificates, passports in your wallet.

9. Do not create PIN numbers by utilizing your house address, date of birth, or consecutive numbers.

Source: Indiana State Police

Indiana Car Sellers Beware

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:52:08 -0800

GARY, IN - On December 6th, Indiana State Police Detectives Scott Krueger and Alva Whited arrested a Gary man for bilking unsuspecting car sellers out of their vehicles.

The Indiana State Police received information in September 2007 of a man who had contacted someone from the Sellersburg area who had put his personal car up for sale on an on line auto sales web site. They exchanged e-mails and eventually phone numbers. A meeting place and price of $24,000 for the vehicle was given. The seller was given a cashier's check in exchange for his 2005 Chrysler 300. The seller later found out that the check was fraudulent He also found out that the information given to him by the buyer was not his but that of an unsuspecting individual from Lowell, Indiana.

In October 2007 a Hebron, Indiana man was contacted by e-mail by this same individual after listing his 2003 Hummer on an on-line auto sales web site. This time the buyer came to his home and gave him a cashier's check for $35,000 for the vehicle. That check too was found out later to be fraudulent and the information given was that of the unsuspecting Lowell man.

Upon talking to the identity theft victim from Lowell, Detective Scott Krueger discovered another victim. This victim was from Jackson, Michigan and had contacted the Lowell man because his cashier's check for $26,000 for his 1998 Lincoln Navigator was also found to be fraudulent. Krueger notes that the Navigator has some very distinguishable markings on it as described by the seller.

Another victim from Chesterton, Indiana reported that in November 2007 he too was taken for $9,800 for his 1998 Mercedes ML 320. All the victims describe the same individual, black male, very well groomed and dressed, always driving a high end vehicle. He always made his transactions over the week-end or holidays when the banks were closed. He also gave each seller their asking price for their vehicle never negotiating a lower price.

Through the course of the investigation Krueger discovered that this same person was making fraudulent purchases through a particular web site and having those purchases delivered to an abandoned house on Johnson Street in Gary. Krueger and Whited while canvassing this area discover a 1998 Lincoln Navigator matching the one described by the victim in Michigan. This vehicle was parked across the street from the abandoned house. There was also a 2006 Lincoln pick-up with Ohio plates in the driveway that was later discovered to be involved in these same scams.

The residents of this home were identified and one of those matched the description of the buyer. A photo line-up was conducted and BRANDON J. MOODY, 24 of Gary, Indiana was identified as the buyer.

A search warrant was conducted on December 6^th, 2007, and Moody was arrested and charged at the Porter County Jail for 2 counts of Forgery C Felonies, 2 counts of Auto Theft D Felonies and one count of Identity Deception D Felony.

During the course of the warrant more fraudulent cashier's checks were found already made out with people's names and dollar amounts on them. Hand written notes were also found listing information from past and future victims. It is believed Moody may have been involved in at least 20 of these fraudulent vehicle buys since September 2007. It is also believed that his victims came from not only Indiana but Illinois, Ohio and Michigan.

It is not known at this time what Moody did with these vehicles or where they went after purchasing them.

Detective Krueger stated, "Anyone who is selling their vehicle on-line needs to realize that there is no fool proof method of conducting business. If you need to sell your vehicle this way plan ahead. Meet the buyer at the bank during business hours, hopefully this will help in ensuring that the check is legitimate and will clear. Also if someone is contacting you about purchasing your vehicle and does not negotiate an asking price, be wary if it seems too good, it probably is. Also try to verify the buyer's information, his address and telephone number."

If anyone knows or believes they may have been a victim of this individual please contact Detective Scott Krueger at 219-696-6242.

This is an on-going case and further charges are pending.

Source: Indiana State Police

Indiana State Police Offer Winter Driving Tips

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:10:20 -0800

Some counties in north central Indiana are under a winter storm watch issued by the National Weather Service. A mixture of heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain are being forecasted. This combination can cause driving conditions to change quickly. To help Hoosiers prepare for this winter storm the Indiana State Police offer the following safety tips.

Be prepared:

Before traveling, check the forecast and let someone know your travel route.

Keep your gas tank at least half-full.

Carry a winter driving kit that should include blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or cat litter), shovel, candle, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, first aid kit, and jumper cables.

Slow down on snow/ice covered roads.

Allow extra time to arrive at your destination.

Clear all windows of ice and snow and remove snow from hood, roof, and lights.

Use extra caution when driving across bridges, underpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt.

Avoid abrupt stops and starts. Slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid loosing traction.

Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice.

Should you become stranded:

Don’t leave your car. It’s the best protection you have.

Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna.

Roll down your window a small amount.

Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Don’t panic. An idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour.

A four-wheel drive vehicle may keep you from being stuck in deep snow or aid in acceleration during slippery road conditions, but it will not allow you to stop any quicker. Slow down and allow yourself plenty of stopping distance.

For Indiana road conditions between December 1 and April 1, call 317-232-8298 or 800-261-7623 or visit the state police website at www.in.gov/isp.

Source: Indiana State Police

Anderson Mayor Elect Kris Ockomon Announces Appointments

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 14:35:15 -0800

ANDERSON, IN - The lobby at Anderson City Hall was so crowded you would have thought there was an anti-property tax meeting going on. People from all walks of life showed up for a press conference held by Anderson Mayor Elect Kris Ockomon to announce his appointments to the Anderson Safety Board, Anderson Police Department and Anderson Fire Department.

Ockomon formed a bi-partisan panel to give him a list of suggestions for these important positions in the city. Using that list, he made the following decisions.

Anderson Fire Department Appointments:

Fire Chief David Clendenen, who is 1st in Command over operations and personnel. Clendenen is a third-generation Anderson firefighter with over 22 years of experience. During his career he has been an EMP, Captain, and Assistant Battalion Chief.
Deputy Fire Chief Jerry Burmeister, who is 2nd in command and oversees fiscal affairs. Burmeister has served the city of Anderson at the Anderson Fire Department for over 25 years and has coordinated the Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraising for over 15 years.
Dave Cravens, who is 3rd in command over EMS and medical supplies. Cravens, a certified fire investigator and Department of Homeland Security EMT, is responsible for Search and Rescue. He is also owner of General Nutrition Center (GNC) at the Anderson Mall.
Steve Buck, who is 4th in command over training and certifications. Buck is a certified fire investigation instructor and has been a part of the Anderson Fire Department since 1996.

Anderson Safety Board:

H.L. Baker, former Dean of Students at Anderson University.
John Bostic, General Motors Retiree, community activist and member of the Madison County Council
Dick Wiley was chosen as Safety Board Chairman. Wiley is an Anderson Fire Department Retiree and local businessman.

Anderson Police Department:

Anderson Police Chief Darron Sparks oversees police operations and personnel. Sparks was at one time Assistant Chief of the non-Uniform Division and a training coordinator. Sparks currently is a detective of juvenile investigations. He is trained in special weapons and tactics and is President of National Dogs Against Drugs / Dogs Against Crime Organization, which assists law enforcement canine training.
Assistant Chief of the non-Uniform Division Keith Copeland oversees training, administrative staff, juvenile and narcotics. Copeland has served the City of Anderson for over 31 years in various capacities. He's been named Policeman of the Year, has received a distinguished service award and was recognized by the FBI for helping solve a string of bank robberies.
Assistant Chief of the Uniform Division Mike Lee oversees patrol officers and traffic. Lee has been in the laboratory section of the Anderson Police Department for the last 10 years. He has coordinated hundreds of major crime scenes and is responsible for training and work product review of the crime scene technicians.
Major Tony Waters oversees fiscal matters. During his 18 year career with the Anderson Police Department, Waters has been a uniform officer and police detective.

Most of the information was supplied by Mayor Elect Kris Ockomon's office.

Trick or Treat! October 31 in Anderson

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 16:24:23 -0700

ANDERSON, IN - City of Anderson Police Chief Frank Burrows has announced that the official hours for Halloween trick or treating will be 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 31.

The chief also offered these safety tips to all children:

    * Carry a flashlight
    * Walk, don't run.
    * Stay on Sidewalks
    * Obey traffic signals
    * Stay in familiar neighborhoods
    * Don't cut across yards or driveways.
    * Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
    * Make sure costumes don't drag on the ground.
    * Shoes should fit (even if they don't go with your costume)
    * Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.
    * Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props.
    * (If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road facing traffic
    * Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.
    * Approach only houses that are lit.
    * Stay away from and don't pet animals you don't know.

The Anderson Police Department encouraged all parents to:

    * Make your child eat dinner before setting out.
    * Children should carry quarters so they can call home.
    * Ideally, young children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.
    * If your children go on their own, be sure they wear a watch, preferably one that can be read in the dark.
    * If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame-retardant material.
    * Older children should know where to reach you and when to be home.
    * Know where your children are going.
    * Although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything.
    * Look at the wrapping carefully and toss out anything that looks suspect.

And for homeowners, he suggested:

    * Make sure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flower pots that can trip the young ones.
    * Pets get frightened on Halloween. Put them up to protect them from cars or inadvertently biting a trick-or-treater.
    * Battery powered jack o'lantern candles are preferable to a real flame.
    * If you do use candles, place the pumpkin well away from where trick-or-treaters will be walking or standing.
    * Make sure paper or cloth yard decorations won't be blown into a flaming candle.
    * Healthy food alternatives for trick-or-treaters include packages of low-fat crackers with cheese or peanut butter filling, single-serve boxes of cereal, packaged fruit rolls, mini boxes of raisins and single-serve packets of low-fat popcorn that can be microwaved later.
    * Non-food treats: plastic rings, pencils, stickers, erasers, coins.

New ISP Detective at Pendleton Post

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 11:12:19 -0700

PENDLETON, Ind. - IndianaStatePolice Superintendent Paul Whitesell, Ph.D., has announced the transfer of Senior Trooper Paul R. Hansard, Criminal Investigation Division, to the Pendleton State Police Post. Detective Hansard primary duties will be criminal investigations in Madison County. He will also be assigned to investigate crimes that may occur at the Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility.

Detective Hansard graduated from the Indiana State Police Academy on December 15, 1996. He previously patrolled in Delaware County. He most recently was a Detective at the Redkey State Police Post. He and his family reside in Yorktown.

State Police Arrest Two in Marijuana Grow in Alex

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 10:31:20 -0700

ALEXANDRIA, IN - A father and his son were arrested this morning at 1:00 a.m. for cultivating marijuana on their farm at 9690 north and 200 west approximately one mile west of Alexandria. Indiana State Police marijuana eradication officer Senior Trooper Larry Antic stated information from an earlier arrest on Wednesday in Wabash County by State Police Peru led to his investigation. The Wabash County arrest by State Police yielded 321 marijuana plants.

Senior Trooper Antic stated when Indiana State Police officers arrived they found Maurice Combs, 45, Alexandria, and his son Madison Combs, 21, attempting to burn the marijuana. Maurice and his son fled on foot when they spotted officers into a field behind their farm. Senior Trooper Antic and Senior Trooper Dave Preston and his K-9 “Colt” pursued the suspects and they surrendered after a 50 yard foot pursuit.

A search warrant had been issued earlier out of Madison County Superior court. State Police officers located approximately 170 marijuana plants ranging from 12 inches to four feet tall in a room above the barn. There were also 30 marijuana plants being grown in a cornfield. Several growing lights were taken from the upstairs room. The suspected marijuana has a street value of approximately $200,000.

In addition to the marijuana plants Indiana State Police seized seven vehicles from the property. Seized were a 1967 Mustang, 1968 Mustang, 1969 Mustang, 1984 Buick, 1990 Cadillac, a F150 truck and a Honda ATV. Indiana State Police will start forfeiture proceedings on these vehicles.

Arrested and Charges:

Maurice Combs, 45, 9690 North 200 West, Alexandria, Indiana
Madison Combs, 21, same address as above
Charges: Cultivating Marijuana a Class D Felony

Source: Indiana State Police

Called Off Police Chase Ends in Crash

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 21:32:50 -0700

By Chuck Bowden and Staff

ANDERSON, IN - According to intial reports, Anderson Undercover Drug Officers made a drug purchase off an 18-year old drug dealer and then tried to arrest him Thursday.

The unnamed male sped through the city while trying to evade police. According to statements from the Anderson Undercover Drug Officers, the chase was called off at one point after the suspect started endangering the lives of citizens.

The suspect continued to flee, though, and eventually jumped the curb to the St. John's Ambulatory Services Center, tore through some bushes, mowed down signs and crashed into the rear of Chuck Bowden's duty vehicle across the street from St. John's Anderson Center.

The suspect then fled the scene but was apprehended after a brief foot chase that lasted approximately 2 blocks. It was purported that the suspect was in possession of an AK-47 assault rifle at the time of his capture.

No further details at this time.

Anderson Achieves Federal Weed and Seed Status

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 9 Aug 2007 17:19:57 -0700

ANDERSON, IN - U.S. Attorney Susan Brooks congratulated Mayor Kevin S. Smith today on Anderson’s successful application to become a Weed and Seed program site. The announcement was made during a press conference in the Anderson City Building Lobby, along with members of the Weed and Seed Steering Committee and representatives of the office of Congressman Mike Pence.

Operation Weed and Seed is a program of the U.S. Department of Justice that operates in 250 neighborhoods across the nation. Its four basic components involve law enforcement; community policing; prevention, intervention and treatment, and; neighborhood restoration.

“Weed and Seed is a highly effective crime reduction strategy that has a proven track record throughout the country,” U.S. Attorney Brooks said. “I am so pleased that the City of Anderson has brought together residents and law enforcement to work hand in hand on the community’s crime problems. The Department of Justice is proud to have the opportunity to financially assist Anderson weed out this crime, seed with revitalization efforts and restore your community.”

Susan W. Brooks

“Operation Weed and Seed’ will further the city’s efforts to create a new Anderson,” said Mayor Smith. “I appreciate the hard work and idealism this successful grant application represents. Kim Townsend, Lt. Jerry Miller, Det. Joel Sandefur, steering committee members, CrimeWatch groups, and the residents of our target neighborhood have already begun to make a difference for their families and community.”

Mayor Kevin S. Smith

The initial award for the city of Anderson is $175,000; but, Operation Weed and Seed is a multi-year, multi-step program that awards up to $1 million for communities as they achieve incremental success. The Weed and Seed Program provides resources for grant communities to enhance law enforcement efforts to reduce the re-arrest rate among adult male and female ex-offenders participating in offender re-entry programs. It also targets reduction of drug crime, related crime (such as theft and forgery) and violent crime in the designated area by at least 10 percent over five years.

"I'm grateful to the Department of Justice for their investment in the City of Anderson, said Congressman Pence. "This program will help increase the safety for residents of Anderson."

The Community Capacity Development Office (CCDO) approved Central Anderson as a Weed and Seed Community (WSC) effective October 1, 2007. The designated area is bounded by Scatterfield Road, University Boulevard, Alexandria Pike, Elder Street, Indiana Avenue, White River, Arrow Avenue, Eighth Street, Baxter Road, Euclid Drive, Raible Avenue, Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 25th Street, Madison Avenue, 38th Street, back to Scatterfield Road.

Anderson Police Merit Commission to Meet

kpaul.mallasch — Sun, 5 Aug 2007 21:27:36 -0700

ANDERSON, IN - The Anderson Police Merit Commission will meet Monday, August 06, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. at the Anderson Police Department.

Photo by: craig1024

Westville Prison Escapee Still Sought

kpaul.mallasch — Sat, 4 Aug 2007 17:49:31 -0700

WESTVILLE, IN - The Indiana State Police and the Indiana Department of Correction are requesting the public’s assistance in returning prison escapee Kelvin J. Fuller, 40, Anderson, IN, back to custody. Fuller is a black male, approximately five foot nine inches tall and 175 pounds. He has short black hair, brown eyes, and a mustache with salt and pepper facial hair. Fuller was last seen wearing a tan shirt and tan pants. He is believed to still be driving a stolen white 2004 Chevrolet Malibu registered through Indiana with an “In God We Trust “plate displaying WI 7309. The Malibu has four doors and a sun roof.

On August 1, 2007, Fuller escaped from the Westville Correctional Facility between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 9:50 a.m. Fuller is considered extremely dangerous. Since his escape, he is alleged to have broken into a home near the prison and stole two sets of car keys and the white Chevrolet Malibu. He purportedly assaulted and robbed a female bus driver in Merrillville, IN. Thursday morning, Kevin J. Fuller is suspected of having robbed a Fifth Third Bank branch in Fishers, IN.

Fuller has relatives in Madison County, Indiana and Montgomery, Alabama. If anyone sees Kelvin J. Fuller or the stolen Chevrolet Malibu they are asked to immediately contact their nearest law enforcement agency.

Indiana State Police Sergeant Detective Joe Gawor of the ISP Lowell Post is heading the investigation for the Indiana State Police. He can be contacted at 1-219-696-6242 (toll free in Indiana at 1-800-552-8917).

Kelvin J. Fuller: male black with a mustache with salt and pepper facial hair, short black hair, brown eyes, 5 foot 9 inches tall, and approximately 175 pounds. He was last seen wearing a tan shirt and pants and driving a stolen white 2004 Chevrolet Malibu sedan, with Indiana registration “In God We Trust” plate WI 7309.

Source: Indiana State Police