Judge Michael Reed – InkFreeNews.com

WARSAW — Police stopped a Warsaw man twice in two separate vehicles, both of which had loud exhausts, and found drugs in the car on both occasions. The same man was witnessed trying to sell drugs on yet another occasion and will now serve a six and a half year jail sentence for all three incidents.

Sheldon Lee Lawrence

Sheldon Lee Lawrence, 26, 3806 North CR 700E, Warsaw, was charged with two counts of possession of methamphetamine, two counts of driving while suspended, one count of false informing, possession of a narcotic drug and dealing a narcotic drug.

On May 17, Lawrence pleaded guilty to both of the methamphetamine possession charges, as well as one of the driving while suspended counts, the false informing charge and dealing a narcotic drug. Lawrence was sentenced in Kosciusko County Circuit Court on Monday, July 9. With concurrent sentences, Lawrence will likely spend less than the total sentence behind bars and Judge Michael Reed told Lawrence he would approve the defendant entering the Recovery While Incarcerated program for a chance to get further sentence reductions down the road. “We will give you the opportunity,” said Reed.

On April 21, 2017, officers with the Winona Lake Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a silver Buick with loud exhaust. Police say that Lawrence misidentified himself as having a different first name. Police also reported finding marijuana and methamphetamine in the vehicle.

A similar incident occurred on June 8 that same year when Warsaw city police conducted a traffic stop of a green Monte Carlo with very loud exhaust and its muffler hanging underneath. In both incidents, officers reported that Lawrence’s driving privileges were suspended. During the traffic stop of the Monte Carlo, officers reported finding methamphetamine.

On June 23, officers reported observing Lawrence trying to sell a quantity of methamphetamine.

Lawrence’s attorney, Doug Lemon, told the court that Lawrence is battling addiction and that the defendant wants to turn a corner toward rehabilitation. “The common denominator here is that there seems to be a difficulty battling addiction,” said Lemon. “He’s eager to get to a place where he can come back to this court for a possible [sentence] modification.”

Lawrence concurred.

“I’m ready to make a change,” said Lawrence.

“Mr. Lawrence, not much else can be done with where you are here,” said Reed. “Go down there [Indiana Department of Corrections] and work hard.”

WARSAW — A Syracuse woman who provided a man the drugs that police say killed him in a drug overdose was sentenced to three years in prison on Monday, July 23.

Pamela Godsey

Pamela Godsey, 49, 605 N. Huntington St., Apt. B, Syracuse was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 5 felony and possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony.

On June 14, Godsey pleaded guilty to dealing in exchange for a plea agreement with county prosecutors. She was sentenced in Kosciusko County Circuit Court by Judge Michael Reed.

On Sept. 26, 2017, police responded to Godsey’s residence where another police officer was performing CPR on a male subject. Medics with EMS later pronounced the man dead. Godsey told police she had brought the man to her residence on Sept. 24. She said on Sept. 26, he became loud, yelling and flailing his arms. Sometime later, according to what police reported from Godsey, the man began sweating, breathing heavily, was incoherent and had black liquid from out of his mouth. After some time, Godsey told police she realized she waited too long before calling 911 for help.

Police reported that Godsey said the man used methamphetamine, but also took Oxycodone, Clonazepam and Buspirone. She admitted on several occasions that she provided the man with the drugs.

“I would like to offer my heartfelt apology to the family of the victim,” said Godsey before her sentencing.

Reed told the defendant that anything she could say would fall short of significance.

“I hesitate to say anything because if I do, it would pale by comparison to what happened,” said Reed.

Reed sentenced Godsey to three years in prison with 171 days of jail time credit. He said he would allow Godsey to enter the Recovery While Incarcerated program.

WARSAW — A Warsaw man was sentenced to jail time with both the Indiana Department of Corrections as well as the Kosciusko County Jail after he was found guilty of drug offenses while out of jail on work release.

Shane D. Cox

Shane Dale Cox, 40, 321 S. High St., Warsaw, was charged with two counts of possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, two counts of unlawful possession of a syringe, a level 6 felony, dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony and resisting law enforcement, a class A misdemeanor. He was also accused of violating his terms of probation for similar charges stemming from incidents in 2016 for which he had been sentenced and freed on work release.

According to affidavits of probable cause, Cox was arrested twice on active warrants — once on Jan. 6 and once on May 19. In both instances, police reported finding drugs and paraphernalia on Cox’s person.

Cox pleaded guilty earlier this year to dealing methamphetamine, resisting law enforcement and one of the possession charges. At his sentencing hearing Monday, Aug. 6, in Kosciusko Circuit Court, Cox told Judge Michael Reed he was thankful of the multiple chances he’d been given after his earlier arrests and that he alone was responsible for his current situation.

“I appreciate all the opportunities you guys gave me,” Cox said. “When paranoia kicked in, I did something I shouldn’t have done, which is leave Serenity House.”

Reed told Cox that as an addict, he’s going to have to find ways to cope with the disease. “You’re always going to face this,” Reed said. “You’re going to have to figure out different ways to do it.”

Reed ordered Cox to serve the remainder of his previous sentence that had been converted to probation time and ordered him to spend a total of five years with the Indiana Department of Corrections as well one year in the Kosciusko County Jail. The county jail time was to be served concurrently with three years in the IDOC that he received for dealing methamphetamine.

Reed also told the representatives of the probation department that Cox’s jail time credit would have to be calculated at a later time.

Alexis Erin Davies

KOSCIUSKO — A Warsaw woman was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court Thursday, Nov. 15, in three drug cases. One drug case involved a theft from Big R.

Alexis Erin Davies, 939 E. Garfield St., Warsaw, was charged with unlawful possession of a syringe and failure to appear, both level 6 felonies; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

In a second case, Davies was charged with possession of a narcotic drug, theft and possession of paraphernalia, all level 6 felonies. Davies was also sentenced in a third case and charged with unlawful possession of a syringe, a level 6 felony.

The first drug case charges were filed on Dec. 1, 2017, while the third drug case charges were filed on July 10.

On May 8, officers with the Warsaw Police Department responded to a report of theft at Big R. Dispatch advised that Big R employees followed Davies to Village Mobile Home Park.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, Davies stole various clothing items from Big R, valued at $97.40.

When officers went to a mobile home at the park, a female at the residence said Davies ran into the residence and was in the back room. Officers arrested Davies and searched her bags, finding an eyeglass container that contained four syringes, two metal spoons with residue and two cotton swab tips. The spoons and the plunger on one of the syringes tested positive for heroin.

The female at the residence discovered clothing hidden under the bathroom sink. The clothing matched the description of the items stolen from Big R.

Prosecuting Attorney Dan Hampton recommended that Davies complete the Recovery While Incarcerated program while serving her sentence.

“I’m lucky that I’m alive,” said Davies about receiving treatment. “And I’m looking forward to taking that opportunity and entering that program.”

In the first drug case, Judge Michael Reed sentenced Davies to two years at the Indiana Department of Corrections and 60 days in the Kosciusko County Jail. She has six days of jail time credit in that case. One year at the Department of Corrections and 60 days in the jail will be served concurrently. All other charges will be served consecutively to other cases.

In the case regarding drugs and the Big R theft, Reed sentenced Davies to three and a half years at the Department of Corrections. She has six days of jail time credit. Davies is also required to pay restitution to Big R in the amount of $97.40.

To conclude sentencing, Reed sentenced Davies to one year at the Department of Corrections in the last drug case. A fourth case, 43C01-1808-F6-000747, was dismissed. Davies has 256 days of jail time credit in the final case.

Three and a half years of Davies’ sentence in all of the aforementioned cases will be served on probation. If Davies violates any probation rules, she will serve the remaining amount of time at the Department of Corrections.

“This is really life or death,” said Reed. “I really hope you get the treatment you need.”

Jerry W. Jilton

KOSCIUSKO — A Syracuse man was sentenced to five years in the Indiana Department of Corrections in Kosciusko Circuit Court Wednesday, Dec. 26, for dealing methamphetamine while children were present at a residence.

Jerry Wayne Jilton, 29, 509 Prairie Drive, Syracuse, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 4 felony.

A previous investigation led to an arrest warrant for Jilton after he dealt methamphetamine while children were present in a Kosciusko County residence.

Defense attorney Christopher Kehler said that Jilton is willing to participate in the Recovery While Incarcerated program and has been accepted to community corrections.

“I have a great support system and I want to keep my head where it’s at,” said Jilton.

Judge Michael Reed sentenced Jilton to five years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with two years of the sentence to be served on formal probation. Reed said Jilton must complete the Recovery While Incarcerated program in order for him to consider modifying the sentence. Jilton is also required to pay $400 in restitution to the Warsaw Police Department.

“This is a very serious offense,” said Reed. “Dealing is a very, very serious offense.”

Monica Lynn Mullins

KOSCIUSKO — A Pierceton woman was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court today, Jan. 28, in four different cases involving auto theft and methamphetamine.

In the first case, Monica Lynn Mullins, 23, 708 W. Catholic St., Pierceton, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony. In a second case, Mullins was charged with auto theft, a level 6 felony. Mullins was also sentenced in two other cases for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia charges.

On Oct. 23, 2017, an officer with the Warsaw Police Department responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. A female subject said she loaned her vehicle to a male subject on Oct. 6. Without the female’s consent, the male loaned her vehicle to Mullins. The arrangement was for Mullins to borrow the vehicle for one day, but Mullins kept the vehicle for one month and made no attempt to return it. The officer made several unsuccessful attempts to contact Mullins.

On Nov. 11, 2017, Kosciusko County dispatch advised officers of the stolen vehicle. An officer with the North Webster Police Department observed the stolen vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The officer identified the driver of the vehicle as Mullins.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the officer found there was an active warrant for Mullins regarding an auto theft. The warrant was for the vehicle she was operating. After searching the vehicle, officers found a plastic bag containing methamphetamine that weighed approximately 3 grams.

On Feb. 15, 2018, an officer with the Warsaw Police Department observed a vehicle with a false and fictitious registration plate. The officer conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as Mullins. Upon discovering Mullins had two separate possession of methamphetamine arrests, the officer asked if Mullins had anything on her person. Mullins then handed the officer a small metal container from her purse and said there was less than half a gram of methamphetamine in the container.

The officer then searched the vehicle and found a plastic bag containing methamphetamine, a glass smoking pipe with residue, a digital scale with residue and a glass jar containing a white residue.

On Feb. 22, 2018, an officer with the Warsaw Police Department observed a vehicle with a false and fictitious license plate. After conducting a traffic stop, officers were given consent by Mullins to search her vehicle. Officers discovered two bags containing methamphetamine, a white cut straw with residue, two small plastic bags with residue and one set of digital scales with white powder residue.

While jail personnel were processing Mullins, they discovered a small plastic bag containing methamphetamine hidden on her person.

“Ms. Mullins really wants to make a positive change in her life and is willing to do so,” said Defense Attorney Scott Lennox. “She wants to become a contributing member to society.”

“I take full responsibility for my actions,” said Mullins. “And I want to better my future.”

In the auto theft case, Judge Michael Reed sentenced Mullins to one year in the Kosciusko County Jail. The jail sentence was suspended on formal probation.

In the November 2017 case, Mullins was sentenced to one year at the Indiana Department of Corrections. In the Feb. 15, 2018, case, Mullins was sentenced to one year in the Department of Corrections. In the Feb. 22, 2018, case, she was sentenced to one year in the Department of Corrections and 60 days in the Kosciusko County Jail. All of the Department of Corrections time given in all three cases was suspended as long as Mullins is accepted into work release.

“Show me that you can actually stay sober,” said Reed. “Now is the time to step up and act.”

Madison Stafford

KOSCIUSKO — A Walkerton woman was sentenced to three years at the Kosciusko County Jail for allegedly driving the getaway car for a male who burglarized a home in Kosciusko County.

Madison Marie Stafford, 21, 880 Walkerton Trail, Walkerton, pleaded guilty to burglary, a level 5 felony, Monday, April 1, in Kosciusko Circuit Court.

According to court documents, on March 27, 2018, officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office were called to a county residence where a basement window had been forced open. The police report stated that unknown subjects stole a safe containing jewelry and $8,000 in cash as well as a laptop computer.

After reportedly receiving information about a male who was involved in the heist, police contacted the male, who told them that Stafford drove him to the residence and then drove the vehicle into the garage of the residence in order to load the stolen items into the vehicle.

Stafford corroborated the story when police talked to her. She also drove the male to another man’s residence where the safe was opened and the contents distributed. Police said Stafford and the two males then drove to a bridge where the safe was dumped into the water.

Judge Michael Reed sentenced Stafford to three years at the Kosciusko County Jail, with the last year of the sentence to be suspended and served on formal probation. Reed said he had no objection to the executed portion of the sentence being served through work release, provided Stafford is accepted into that program and remains qualified.

Pursuant to the plea agreement, another charge was dismissed. Stafford was given one day of jail time credit and ordered to pay a total of $12,963.47 in restitution.

WARSAW — A Warsaw man received multiple sentences on drug charges with only a year to serve.

Caleb Michael Devine

Caleb Michael Devine, 27, 326 Eisenhower Parkway, Warsaw, pleaded guilty on May 20 to possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, possession of both marijuana and paraphernalia, class A and C misdemeanors respectively. He appeared in Kosciusko County Circuit Court for sentencing by Judge Michael Reed on Monday, June 27.

Devine’s attorney, Jay Rigdon, mentioned to Reed during the hearing that the case involved at least one crime that Devine “didn’t do.”

On Feb. 7, police responded to a call of a man yelling at a school bus and waving a firearm. When officers arrived, they found Devine, who told officers he had been having a loud argument on the phone and that he did not own a firearm. Police did not find a gun at the scene, but Devine was in possession of a pipe, according to police, which tested positive for methamphetamine, as well as a bag containing a substance that tested positive as marijuana.

Rigdon told Reed that Devine would be better served if allowed to work. “The employment history for Mr. Devine does show he’s able to hold a difficult job for a lengthy amount of time,” said Rigdon. “He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Devine told Reed that substance abuse has played a role in his troubles. “I’ve got trouble with getting high,” he said. “It’s time for me to figure something out.”

Reed sentenced Devine to one year in the Kosciusko County Jail for both the methamphetamine and marijuana charges, as well as 60 days in county lockup for the paraphernalia charge. The sentences were ordered by Reed to be served concurrently, which means at the same time. Reed told Devine he would approve him for work release or Community Corrections if he’s accepted. Devine was given a total of 52 days credit for time served.

WARSAW — A Winona Lake woman received a suspended sentence for an incident where a bag of heroin reportedly fell from her purse while she was in line at the bank.

Danyelle Rebecca Palmer

Danyelle Rebecca Palmer, 26, 1216 Biblers Ave., Winona Lake, pleaded guilty on May 6, to possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. She appeared in Kosciusko County Circuit Court on Monday, June 17, for sentencing from Judge Michael Reed.

Palmer’s attorney, David Kolbe, told Reed his client is part of an ever-growing and sad statistic.

“My client is one in a long line of people who have become addicted,” Kolbe said. “She has an addiction problem.”

According to a report from the Warsaw Police Department, a Lake City Bank employee called police on March 12, when a bag containing what was suspected to be illegal drugs was found on the floor of the local branch. Bank personnel told police that Palmer had been the only customer during the time the bag, later confirmed as heroin, was discovered. Surveillance video also showed Palmer in line and showed the bag falling out of her purse.

Palmer told Reed during sentencing that she realizes addiction has been guiding her decision making.

“Knowing that you have a problem is only part of the solution,” said Reed. “There is some internal fortitude that has to take place.”

Reed sentenced Palmer to one year in the Kosciusko County Jail and suspended the sentence in lieu of probation. She received two days of credit for time served.

Ashtyn Nicole Demelo

WARSAW — An Ohio woman was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court Thursday, Sept. 12, to six years at the Indiana Department of Corrections after dealing methamphetamine in Silver Lake.

Ashtyn Nicole Demelo, 26, 3598 Grosvenor Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

On May 11, 2018, an officer with the Silver Lake Police Department received information about multiple people manufacturing methamphetamine at a residence. According to court documents, the officer went to the residence and smelled marijuana. Upon entering the residence, the officer found four people, including Demelo, hiding from the officer.

Demelo told the officer she came to the residence with a man in order to deliver methamphetamine. She also told officers the vehicle they arrived in contained methamphetamine. While searching the vehicle, officers found 5.2 grams of marijuana. They also found scales and a smoking device in Demelo’s purse. While searching the residence, officers found a plastic bag containing 0.2 pounds of methamphetamine.

At the scene, Demelo admitted to officers that she went to Silver Lake to meet with a man in order to make a drug deal. She brought one and one half ounces of methamphetamine to Silver Lake to sell. Demelo also admitted to dealing 2 to 3 pounds of methamphetamine per week for the past six months and that she deals methamphetamine in South Bend, Plymouth, Warsaw, Wabash and Michigan.

“Ms. Demelo is remorseful,” said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Buehler. “She turned herself in when there was a warrant out for her arrest. But she was also selling large amounts of methamphetamine. This isn’t a Level 5 or 6 felony. I hope an order will be crafted that will address the seriousness of this crime, but will also help Ms. Demelo.”

Defense Attorney Adam Turner said Demelo has a large support network and discussed letters of support she has from family members.

“There are two aspects of this case that I find unique,” said Turner. “One is obviously the large amount of drugs that were dealt. The other is Ashtyn herself. This is her first criminal offense and she has no prior criminal history. She has a desire to get this behind her.”

Demelo then read a letter of apology to the court.

“I apologize to the Silver Lake community for my actions,” said Demelo. “I knew turning myself in was the right thing to do. I am asking to receive help because I’m not that type of person anymore. I want to participate in RWI [Recovery While Incarcerated] and get help.”

“You have a lot of potential and I get all of that,” said Judge Michael Reed. “But those were large amounts of methamphetamine being brought into the community. And that’s a serious offense.”

Demelo was sentenced to nine years at the Indiana Department of Corrections. Three years of the sentence was suspended on formal probation. She has 388 days of jail time credit, with good time credit as calculated. Reed also recommended Demelo be immediately placed in the RWI program.

“I hope you focus on making amends with your family and I wish you luck,” said Reed.

Pictured, from left, Commissioner Bob Conley, Commissioner President Cary Groninger, Commissioner Vice-President Brad Jackson and Area Plan Director Dan Richard. InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels.

WARSAW — After hearing information from both sides of the Blue Barn Berry Farm matter at the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting held Tuesday Sept. 17, commissioners eventually made a unanimous decision to table the issue and consider it again next month.

A petition was filed by Blue Barn Berry Farm, located at 9139 North CR 300E, Syracuse, requesting approval to rezone 8.16 acres from a Residential District to an Agricultural District. In 2014, a fruit and vegetable stand was allowed on the property as an exception in a residential district. Over the years, buildings have been added and the property is now being used to hold weddings and other events.

The Area Plan Commission unanimously approved the request at their meeting earlier this month to rezone the land. Chris Scheeren, of Blue Barn Berry Farm, told APC members at that meeting that 60 percent of the property is currently used for agricultural purposes and 100 percent of the property focuses on agricultural and agri-tourism.

If approved by county commissioners, the expectation would be that the Blue Barn Berry Farm petition would then be presented to the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals with a request for an exception for recreational commercial activity.

Attorney Jack Birch is representing Blue Barn Berry Farm and attended the meeting on their behalf. Attorney Scott Federoff of Snyder, Morgan, Federoff & Kuchmay LLP, Syracuse, attended the meeting to represent three sets of property owners opposed to the rezoning.

Federoff said the property currently qualifies as a commercial operation and does not fit in with the area.

“This is a banquet hall,” said Federoff. “It’s a commercial, for-profit operation.”

Everyone enjoys weddings, Federoff acknowledged; however, weddings and receptions generally involve alcohol and music. Homeowners who reside across the lake may find the noise from these events disruptive, said Federoff.

He warned the commissioners they should be wary of the precedent they may be setting if they approve the rezoning request and said their decision will have a bearing on how long the process goes on.

Birch countered that the majority of the people who live nearby think the Blue Barn Berry Farm operation is “wonderful.”

“We have people who live right next to the remonstrators who have no problem at all,” said Birch, adding that the complaints are coming from a few disgruntled individuals.

He provided officials with seven signed letters of support from nearby homeowners.

One letter read, in part, “No one lives physically closer to Blue Barn than we do, aside from Don and Peggy Bucher. Blue Barn has never once had an event go past 10 p.m. and only host events on weekends.”

A letter from another resident described Blue Barn Berry Farm as “a great asset for the community.”

Commissioners agreed to table the issue until next month to give those involved an opportunity to work together to reach an agreement.

Commissioner Vice-President Brad Jackson strongly encouraged everyone involved to get together and work out an agreement amongst themselves.

In another matter, commissioners approved Kosciusko County Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed’s request to appoint Alan Alderfer as a member of the public defender board.

Reed also requested permission to apply for a $60,000 grant through the Justice Partners Addictions Response.

“We’re asking to use it for additional JCAP sessions at the jail,” Reed told commissioners. Reed said two new sessions are tentatively being planned for next year. Commissioners approved this request.

County Highway Supervisor Scott Tilden requested approval of an ordinance to establish a stop sign and yield sign at an intersection in Syracuse. Commissioners approved the request. The stop sign will be installed at the southwest corner of Elwood Street and Grandview Drive and a yield sign will be installed at the southeast corner of Grandview Drive and Trusdell Avenue.

In other news:

Commissioners approved a contract invoice submitted by Kosciusko Area Bus Service General Manager Amanda Landis.
John and Dora Miller were approved to rezone 8 acres from an Agricultural District to an Agricultural II District. The property is on the north side of CR 1350N, west of CR 950W in Nappanee.
Commissioners approved a right-of-way vacation located off of Yellow Lake in Claypool.
Commissioners approved plans to replace a chiller compressor in the justice building.
The next regular meeting will be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

From left, County Auditor Michelle Puckett and Commissioner Bob Conley. InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels.

Eric McFarland

WARSAW — A man convicted of multiple drug charges received a 25-year sentence in Kosciusko County Circuit Court Tuesday, Sept. 24.

The sentence was the result of a plea agreement involving charges in four separate cases.

Per the plea agreement, Eric Scott McFarland, 38, with an address on file of 41 EMS W16 Lane, North Webster, pleaded guilty to dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 4 felony; dealing in methamphetamine (attempt), a level 3 felony; possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, a level 4 felony; and dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony.

In May 2018, McFarland was found to be in possession of heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana and a handgun. At that time, McFarland was on probation after being convicted of dealing heroin.

In June 2018, McFarland was arrested for attempting to deal methamphetamine after receiving a package addressed to Bruce Banner of Hulk Industry. This was discovered after law enforcement officers became aware that a package containing drugs was to be delivered to a Silver Lake residence by UPS.

In May 2019, as a result of numerous drug complaints, Kosciusko County’s unified narcotics unit, NET 43, initiated a covert criminal investigation at a residence in Milford. After a lengthy operation, consisting of surveillance and undercover components, a search warrant was obtained for the residence. Kosciusko County SWAT executed a search warrant. Two children and two adults were located inside of the home, with McFarland being one of the adults.

McFarland’s attorney, Anthony Garza, told Judge Michael Reed that McFarland has a long history of substance abuse and requested that Reed fashion a sentence that would allow McFarland to get the help he needs.

McFarland told Reed he would like to start in some type of substance abuse program as soon as possible.

“The JCAP ladies are interested in bringing me into their program,” McFarland said.

“You’ve tied the court’s hands,” Reed responded. “I gave you a chance in 2017, got you into Community Corrections.”

Reed pointed out that the crimes McFarland was being sentenced for Tuesday were all committed after 2017.

“I hear what you say, but I see what you do,” Reed said. “Your actions speak so much louder than your words.”

Reed sentenced McFarland to a total of 25 years at the Indiana Department of Corrections. McFarland was sentenced to four years for dealing in a narcotic drug; five years for possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon; nine years for dealing in methamphetamine (attempt); and seven years for dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. All sentences were ordered to be served consecutively.

Reed recommended that McFarland participate in Recovery While Incarcerated and said he would consider a sentence modification in the future if McFarland is successful in the program.

McFarland was given a combined total of 415 days of jail time credit in the four cases. He was ordered to pay court costs and fines as well as $500 in restitution to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office.

Pursuant to the plea agreement, other charges were dismissed. McFarland was also ordered to complete the period of probation he previously violated, following his release from IDOC.

“I want you to seek help,” Reed said. “I want you to change. It’s never too late.”

Derrick L. Wandrick

WARSAW — An Illinois man was sentenced to 55 years in prison on Monday, Dec. 23, after killing his cousin in 2017.

Derrick Lavelle Wandrick, 26, Harvey, Ill., was charged with felony murder. Wandrick had been facing a four-day jury trial in January 2020, but that was canceled after a guilty plea was entered in November.

On Oct. 23, 2017, officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office found David L. Strowder Jr., 21, Elkhart, lying facedown near CR 300N. Strowder was bleeding from multiple stab wounds and unconscious.

Strowder was taken to Kosciusko Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Autopsy results showed Strowder had 63 stab wounds, and the death was ruled a homicide.

While investigating the crime scene, officers found a shoe print that did not match Strowder’s. With the assistance of Elkhart City detectives, officers received tips regarding Wandrick.

During an interview, Wandrick said he was in Warsaw on Oct. 23 in Strowder’s vehicle. Wandrick told officers he had driven Strowder’s vehicle back to Elkhart. While interviewing Wandrick, officers compared his shoes to the shoe print found at the scene of the crime. Wandrick’s shoes and the shoe print were of similar design. Officers also discovered Wandrick was in possession of Strowder’s cellphone.

After Strowder’s vehicle was found in Elkhart, officers noticed a cut on the passenger side seat, as well as blood on the center console.

It was later discovered that Wandrick was at a Warsaw residence between 7:45 and 8 p.m. on Oct. 23, 2017, driving Strowder’s vehicle. Witnesses saw Wandrick attempting to clean blood from inside the vehicle with bleach water. Officers also discovered a location where soil had been disturbed with a shoe print. Under the shoe print, officers found a knife believed to be the murder weapon.

Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon called Wandrick’s mother, Shirley Davis, to the stand for testimony and asked her to describe what Wandrick was like as a child.

“He was a very well-behaved kid and he played football,” said Davis. “He had no disciplinary issues with his football coach. He was very quiet, but always had a heart of gold.”

Davis said things changed when Wandrick got a job and that he told her “people were out to get him.” When he told her he wanted to go to Elkhart, Davis attempted to convince him not to go due to violence she was aware of in the area.

“This is not my son,” said Davis. “I think he got a hold of some drugs or something. They’re cousins, but they were brought up like brothers.”

After Davis delivered her testimony, Kosciusko County Prosecutor Dan Hampton elaborated on the number of stab wounds Strowder received, including eight stab wounds to his chest and 10 to the right side of his neck.

“He was only 21 years old,” said Hampton. “Derrick had a girlfriend here in Kosciusko County and so they were down here to visit. That’s how the violence came down to Kosciusko County. That night was a level of violence that was horrific. The gravity of the act itself outweighs all of the mitigating circumstances. David Strowder’s family asks that you put this nightmare to rest. When incidents like this come into our area, we have to hold people accountable. And in David’s memory, we will do that.”

Rigdon said there are several mitigating circumstances involved with this case, including that Wandrick has no criminal record and has a child he has responsibility for.

“Why he did it remains a mystery,” said Rigdon. “He has no memory of it. The mystery will always continue. Mr. Wandrick would like to continue to work to get these issues resolved.”

When asked by Kosciusko County Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed if he would like to offer a statement, Wandrick declined to do so.

One of Strowder’s family members immediately asked aloud in court, “Say something? Why?”

Wandrick did not provide an answer to the question.

“The first offense sometimes speaks for itself,” said Reed. “The only person who would know what happened apparently can’t remember. I could speculate on drugs being involved or mental illness, but I can’t. There’s no evidence to show that. But I never heard any remorse from you.”

Reed sentenced Wandrick to 55 years in prison, with 789 days of jail time credit.

The family of Strowder also requested $2,567 in restitution for funeral expenses.

Benjamin Albright

WARSAW — A Warsaw man who is taking steps to address addiction issues may not have to serve time behind bars.

Benjamin Jacob Albright, 41, 804 N. Old Orchard Drive, Warsaw, pleaded guilty to manufacturing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony, on Monday, Feb. 17.

Albright was arrested in August 2018 after a Warsaw police officer responded to a possible fire at the old Arnolt building. Upon further investigation, the officer found three burning candles and a man sleeping. The officer woke the man up and he was identified as Albright. While speaking with Albright, the officer saw items he recognized as precursors for manufacturing methamphetamine.

The officer searched the area and found lye, sulfuric acid, ammonium nitrate, empty packages of Sudafed and a plastic bottle with a tube coming from the lid. The officer identified the objects as a one-pot methamphetamine lab.

Albright admitted he purchased the items and drove to the building on his moped. He also admitted to manufacturing methamphetamine.

In court today, Albright’s attorney, Doug Lemon, told Judge Michael Reed that he is encouraged that Albright completed a rehabilitation program in Florida through Faith Farm Ministries.

Lemon told Reed that Albright is currently working full-time hours at a job through a temp service. He requested that Albright be given a two-week delay before his sentence begins in order to attempt to secure permanent employment with the company.

Lemon said Albright has applied at Kosciusko County Work Release but has not yet received an answer.

When asked if he would like to speak during the sentencing, Albright said, “I want to apologize to my parents and the community of Warsaw for my behavior.”

“They say you have to find your low point before you can get better,” Albright said, describing his arrest in August as his own low point.

He credited Fellowship Missions Director Eric Lane for helping him realize that he needed to change “people, places and things” in his life.

Albright told Reed that he attends three group meetings each week, including Celebrate Recovery meetings on Tuesday evenings at New Life Christian Church. Albright said he rededicated his life to Christ on Feb. 1, 2019.

“I am pretty impressed with the steps you’ve taken over the last year or so,” Reed said. He reminded Albright that recovery is an ongoing process.

Reed granted the two-week delay request. He sentenced Albright to two years at the Kosciusko County Jail, but directed the first six months of the sentence be served through work release and the next six months to be served through the Kosciusko County Community Corrections program, providing Albright qualifies and remains qualified for those programs. One year of the sentence was suspended and ordered to be served through probation.

Albright was given one day of jail time credit and ordered to pay court costs. Other charges were dismissed, pursuant to the plea agreement.

Outlined in yellow are the boundaries of the proposed Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District included in the affidavit from Michelle Puckett, county auditor.

WARSAW — An order stating a petition to create the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District has met all legal requirements and was signed by Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed Thursday afternoon, March 5. The matter will now be sent to the Natural Resources Commission according to state statute. A public hearing is expected to be announced by the NRC. No date has been set, but it is expected the hearing will be held within the next several months.

The Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy is working on being established before new legislation can put in certain restrictions.

Approximately 32 people attended the hearing, some unsure why they were there or what was actually going on. Reed did provide an opportunity for any person to speak in opposition. While no one spoke in objection to the matter at hand, several residents did raise questions before the judge and Christopher Ripley, Blachly Tabor, Bozik and Hartman, counsel for the freeholders.

Reed explained the hearing was an initial hearing to determine whether the proper legal forms and necessary signatures were obtained to proceed further. It was also explained the matter would then go to the Natural Resources Commission to make a study and file a report with the court. He suggested the public hearing would be the time to have any questions answered.

Two individuals did raise questions to the judge after he asked if anyone was present to talk. Neither person was asked to identify themselves. The questions concerned who was paying into the taxes to maintain this and if all the responsibility of the water control device would leave the town. Another unidentified person questioned why they received the notice of the hearing when they didn’t sign anything or know about the petition. It was even voiced some of those who signed the petition were ineligible.

“It all remains to be seen,” stated Reed regarding the taxes and responsibility. Ripley noted notices were sent out beyond the boundaries of the proposed conservancy district to ensure everyone was notified. The minimum amount of signatures needed for the petition was also noted.

During the actual hearing, Riply presented three affidavits which had been electronically sent to the court prior to the hearing. One affidavit was certification from Michelle Puckett, auditor, verifying the number of signatures.

That affidavit showed 2,718 freeholders owned property within the boundaries of the conservancy and of the 642 signatures 495 signatures were certified as eligible freeholders. It was noted this was 18.2%. The state statute requires a minimum of 15%.

The other affidavits were proof of publication of the hearing and of the mailing list of who was sent notices.

When Reed opened up the hearing to hear any objections several questions were raised as to who was in the conservancy, who could sign the petition, how will they be notified of the public hearing, if a list of names of those who signed the petition and who received letters was available. Reed informed those present the information, all open to the public, was available through the court’s online program or through the clerk’s office.

Reed approved the prepared order, referring the matter to the NRC for further action. Ripley noted while he believed the NRC had 90 days to hold a hearing, he expected it to be sooner than that.

Following Reed adjourning the hearing and leaving the courtroom, a number of residents gathered around Ripley to ask questions. That group soon broke up into two groups with Ripley answering questions to one group and William Pipp, one of the initial organizers of the conservancy, responding to questions from another group.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Brittany Denise Fields

WARSAW — A Wabash woman received a suspended prison sentence after dealing heroin with her mother.

Brittany Denise Fields, 29, 249 W. CR 250S, Wabash, was charged with two counts of dealing in a narcotic drug, both level 5 felonies. Two possession of narcotic drug charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Brittany was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, May 11.

On June 14, 2018, Syracuse police officers made a controlled purchase of heroin from Brittany and her mother, Bernice Fields. Officers purchased 0.3 grams of heroin from them.

On June 20, 2018, Syracuse police officers made a second controlled purchase of heroin from Brittany and Bernice.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine said Brittany had been accepted into the Wabash County Drug Court program. However, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Buehler expressed concern about Brittany receiving a suspended sentence due to the dealing charges.

“Brittany was the weaker partner in that relationship,” said Rovenstine. “The people involved are her family and the place was her home. She’s relying on the drug court program to help her.”

“I’m trying to better myself and I will respect anything you give me,” said Brittany.

For each count of dealing in a narcotic drug, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Brittany to four years in the Indiana Department of Correction. Both counts will be served concurrently. Her sentence was suspended on formal probation. As part of her probation, Brittany must immediately participate in and successfully complete a drug court program.

“I’m thinking this is the only way to save your life,” said Reed. “I’m going to give you a chance. Change your people, places and things.”

Bernice Fields was sentenced in February 2019 to four years in DoC.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Tyler Mitchell Frazier

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve three months in jail after a traffic stop resulted in the discovery of drugs.

Tyler Mitchell Frazier, 21, 837 Oak Brooke Place, Warsaw, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony. The count was originally a level 4 felony. A possession of a controlled substance charge was also dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

On Jan. 1, a Winona Lake Police officer was on patrol when he noticed a vehicle with an expired license plate. The officer pulled the vehicle over and identified one of the passengers as Frazier. After removing Frazier and two other occupants from the vehicle, the officer searched the vehicle and discovered a bag containing methamphetamine and a plastic wrapper containing seven pills. The officer also found a small glass jar containing 4.4 grams of methamphetamine.

While being processed at the jail, officers found Frazier was in possession of a plastic bag containing 5.8 grams of methamphetamine.

This is Frazier’s first criminal offense.

“I want you to understand the seriousness of this situation and I want to make you address it,” said Kosciusko County Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed. “A lot of people run away from a problem they don’t want to acknowledge. And then I end up seeing their names in the newspapers…in the obits. I don’t want to see that with you.”

For possession of methamphetamine, Reed sentenced Frazier to two years in the Kosciusko County Jail with the first 90 days to be served in jail. The rest of the sentence was suspended and transferred to formal probation.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Lee Anna Marie Seeders

WARSAW — A Rochester woman received a two-year jail sentence after dealing a gram of methamphetamine.

Lee Anna Marie Seeders, 35, 1420 Main St., Rochester, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 5 felony. A possession of methamphetamine charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Seeders was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, June 8.

On Feb. 14, 2018, Warsaw Drug Task Force made a purchase of one gram of methamphetamine from Seeders.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine said Seeders has successfully completed the All Things New program and is approved for work release.

“I think probation is appropriate for this,” said Rovenstine. “She’s had to confront many issues during her time at All Things New.”

Seeders thanked Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed for giving her the opportunity to participate in the All Things New program. Reed congratulated Seeders for successfully completing the program.

“I realize the amount of work you put into this,” said Reed. “I’m proud of you. Just keep moving forward.”

For dealing in methamphetamine, Reed sentenced Seeders to three years in the Kosciusko County Jail, with one year of the sentence suspended on probation. Reed said he had no objection to Seeders serving her sentence through the county’s work release program; he also agreed to have Seeders continue a weekend aftercare program at All Things New while serving through work release.

Seeders has 118 days of jail time credit in this case, good time credit as calculated. She must also pay $100 in restitution to the Warsaw Police Department.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Brandy Aleisha Light

WARSAW — A Warsaw woman will serve two years in jail after dealing methamphetamine.

Brandy Aleisha Light, 28, 766 S. Bunting Lane, Warsaw, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 5 felony. A possession of methamphetamine charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Light was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, June 22.

On Sept. 5, 2019, the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Light. She was provided with documented task force money in exchange for 0.8 grams of methamphetamine.

“She has accepted meaningful responsibility and is deeply remorseful,” said Defense Attorney John Barrett. “She wants to change and has changed.”

“I have cleaned up,” said Light during court proceedings. “I ran with the wrong crowd.”

For dealing meth, Judge Michael Reed sentenced Light to two years in the Kosciusko County Jail. The sentence will be served consecutively to three other criminal cases involving theft. Reed said he had no objection to Light serving her sentence through the county’s work release program. Light must also pay $80 in restitution to NET43.

“I commend the steps you’ve taken so far,” said Reed. “But don’t let your guard down.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Maryjean Emline Howard

WARSAW — A Pierceton woman will serve 13 years in prison for two drug dealing cases.

In the first case, Mary Jean Emline Howard, 52, 8280 E. US 30 Lot 52, Pierceton, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Howard was also charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 2 felony, in a second case. Eight additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Howard was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, June 29.

On June 17, 2019, a Nappanee Police officer noticed a vehicle driving left of center on the roadway multiple times on SR 19, leading the officer to pull the vehicle over.

According to court documents, the officer noticed a large bag of marijuana on top of Howard’s purse. The officer then searched the vehicle and found numerous bags containing methamphetamine and $407 in cash. A gym bag containing methamphetamine was in the vehicle’s trunk.

Combined, the methamphetamine weighed 323 grams.

On Aug. 15, 2019, the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Howard. The purchase of 14 grams of methamphetamine was captured by digital surveillance.

Howard was also previously convicted of possession of methamphetamine on Nov. 7, 2013, in Kosciusko County Circuit Court.

Two of Howard’s family members testified during court proceedings on Howard’s behalf.

“She’s an amazing woman that made poor decisions,” said Howard’s daughter. “There are a lot of amazing programs out there that she could do.”

“She’s always done good under supervision,” said Howard’s husband. “She’s a good mom and a hard worker. It’s not just her in custody. It’s all of us.”

Defense Attorney Richard Thonert presented letters from the executive director of the Rose Garden Recovery Community, stating that Howard would be accepted into their program.

“I just want to apologize to the community,” said Howard. “I’m a changed person and I want to give back to the community. I am really sorry and I hope I’m able to get help through the Rose Home.”

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler asked Judge Michael Reed to accept the plea agreement, noting Howard’s prior criminal history.

For possession of methamphetamine, Reed sentenced Howard to six years in the Indiana Department of Correction. In that case, Howard has 293 days of jail time credit. For dealing in methamphetamine, Howard received a 13-year prison sentence, with six years suspended on formal probation.

Reed also recommended Howard participate in the Recovery While Incarcerated program while serving her sentence.

“You might be dead had I not revoked your bond,” said Reed. “There are consequences for our actions.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Kyle David Shaw

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve three years in prison after a fatal shooting in October 2019.

Kyle David Shaw, 35, 2262 S. Oak Drive, Warsaw, was charged with reckless homicide, a level 5 felony. A criminal recklessness charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Shaw was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, July 27.

At 1:15 p.m. Oct. 15, 2019, Warsaw Police responded to a report of a shooting at Shamrock Village Mobile Home Court. According to court documents, officers who arrived at the scene saw Shaw run out of a mobile home with blood on his hands, feet and clothing.

When officers entered the home, they found Heather Emelio, 34, laying on the floor with a gunshot wound to the neck. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

An autopsy revealed the bullet entered the right side of Emelio’s neck in an upward trajectory and entered her brain.

After being read his Miranda rights, Shaw told officers he and Emelio were in their bedroom. At the time, Shaw said he had been holding a 40-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun with a fully loaded magazine and a cartridge in the chamber. He told police Emelio bumped into him, causing him to drop the gun.

Shaw said he caught the gun but that his thumb touched the trigger, causing the gun to discharge. Officers gave Shaw a portable breath test which indicated he had a 0.161 alcohol level.

During court proceedings, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler read a letter from Pat Hover, Emelio’s grandmother.

Hover described being closer to Emelio than her other grandchildren because of Emelio’s sister’s medical condition. Thirty minutes prior to the shooting, Emelio texted Hover and said she and her children would visit over the weekend.

“This was a senseless act of recklessness,” read Hover’s letter. “There will always be an empty seat at my spaghetti dinners.”

Cathy Gaskill, Emelio’s mother, then took the stand for testimony.

“There are no words to describe the devastation that I feel,” said Gaskill. “There is this void that has consumed my life. Heather was a wonderful mother and was able to overcome anything. We had a strong mother-daughter relationship. We were best friends.”

Gaskill said she lost her first child to cystic fibrosis and that her grandchildren have been moved far away as a result of the shooting incident.

“I am no longer someone’s mom and no one will call me mom again,” said Gaskill.

Several members of the Shaw and Emelio families were present for the sentencing.

“A Level 5 felony doesn’t seem appropriate for someone who kills another human being,” said Buehler. “The woman he (Shaw) professes he loves to this day, he killed. But I commend Heather’s entire family for their grace and patience through all of this.”

“There are no words that capture the gravity of this situation,” said Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine. “An accidental killing is different than an intentional one.”

In his statement, Rovenstine listed several mitigating factors, including that Shaw attempted to save Emelio and has been remorseful from the very beginning.

Shaw apologized in court to Emelio’s family for what occurred.

“This is a situation that has crushed a lot of people,” said Kosciusko County Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed. “He (Shaw) killed his best friend. There’s no winners here.”

For reckless homicide, Shaw was sentenced to five years in the Indiana Department of Correction, with the last two years suspended on probation. The sentence will be served consecutively to a misdemeanor case for resisting law enforcement. Shaw must also pay $4,945.60 in restitution to Gaskill for funeral expenses.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Kevin Michael Klaehn

WARSAW — An Albion man will serve 10 years in prison for dealing methamphetamine to an undercover officer on two occasions.

Kevin Michael Klaehn, 27, 266 E. CR 400S, Albion, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Two additional methamphetamine dealing charges and three methamphetamine possession charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Klaehn was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, July 27.

In April 2019, the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of 29 grams of methamphetamine from Klaehn. NET43 also made a controlled purchase of 3.4 grams of methamphetamine from Klaehn sometime in May 2019.

“This poison of methamphetamine is horrible,” said Defense Attorney Don Swanson. “He (Klaehn) is sincere in wanting treatment.”

“I’m looking at the problem and the solution,” said Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed to Klaehn. “If you choose to overcome your drug addiction, you will.”

For dealing methamphetamine, Reed sentenced Klaehn to 10 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. The sentence will be served consecutively to two other cases. In this case, Klaehn has 179 days of jail time credit and must pay $840 in restitution to the NET43 Drug Task Force.

Reed recommended Klaehn for the Recovery While Incarcerated program as part of his sentence.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Katryna M. Williams

WARSAW — A South Bend woman will serve an eight-year prison sentence through community corrections and probation after officers discovered 131 grams of methamphetamine in a vehicle.

Katryna M. Williams, 36, South Bend, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Dealing in methamphetamine and narcotic drug possession charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Williams was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, Oct. 22.

On Sept. 21, 2018, a Warsaw Police officer noticed a vehicle traveling at an unusual slow rate of speed on US 30. The vehicle was traveling 30 mph in a 50 mph zone. While pursuing the vehicle, the officer saw the vehicle’s driver fail to use a turn signal while turning onto SR 15.

According to court documents, the officer saw the driver again fail to to use a turn signal and pulled the vehicle over.

The vehicle’s driver, identified as Julie Lynn Fillmore, Argos, said she and her passenger, Williams, had been visiting flea markets in the area. A K9 unit positively alerted to drugs in Fillmore’s vehicle. While searching the vehicle, officers discovered a large amount of small bags, a large amount of a white crystal substance and several cellphones. Officers also found a small bag containing methamphetamine on Williams’ person. All of the methamphetamine discovered during the traffic stop weighed approximately 131 grams. Williams admitted that all of the methamphetamine in the vehicle was hers.

Defense Attorney Tony Garza said Williams has been seeking substance abuse treatment through Oaklawn and is taking a dual diagnosis class. Several of Williams’ family members and friends were also in attendance to support Williams.

“She’s done a lot to get clean and sober,” said Garza.

“I feel like I’m making so much progress in my life,” said Williams. “We (Williams and her family) feel like jail time would put me backward. I want to keep moving forward. I have a different way of thinking now and didn’t realize how much my behavior has affected others.”

For possession of methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed gave Williams an eight-year Indiana Department of Corrections sentence. Four years of the sentence will be served through either Kosciusko County or St. Joseph County Community Corrections. The last four years of Williams’ sentence will be served on probation.

“The change has been remarkable,” said Judge Reed about Williams.

Fillmore has a pretrial conference regarding this case at 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Jarrod Scott Snyder

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve eight years in prison after stealing an ATV and being in possession of more than 30 grams of methamphetamine.

Jarrod Scott Snyder, 33, Warsaw, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; and theft, a level 6 felony. Methamphetamine and marijuana possession charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Snyder was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 14.

On April 8, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s officer was patrolling SR 13 when he saw an un-registered ATV traveling south on SR 13. When the officer turned around to pull the ATV over, he saw the ATV’s driver throw a backpack from the vehicle. The officer identified the driver as Snyder.

According to court documents, Snyder said he threw the backpack because it contained methamphetamine. Inside the backpack, officers found five small bags containing a total of 34 grams of methamphetamine, as well as multiple empty, unused bags. Snyder said the items in the backpack belonged to him.

Officers noticed the ATV Snyder had in his possession was being operated without a key and that the ignition system had been bypassed. It was determined that the ATV was reported as stolen from a residence in Cromwell. Snyder told officers that he received the ATV from a friend.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney John Barrett said he looked into options for sentencing alternatives for Snyder; however, Snyder was denied for both community corrections and drug court.

“He’s an intelligent guy and has the ability to be successful if he gets help with his drug problem,” said Barrett.

Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed noted that the denials were more than likely due to Snyder’s prior conduct as well as being on parole until 2024.

For dealing in methamphetamine, Judge Reed sentenced Snyder to eight years in the Indiana Department of Corrections; Snyder was also sentenced to one year in DoC for theft. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time. Reed also recommended Snyder complete the Recovery While Incarcerated program as part of his sentence. If Snyder completes the program, does not use drugs in prison and remains conduct clear, his sentence could be modified.

“I want you to go down there and work hard,” said Reed.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Michael Alen Perzanowski

WARSAW — A Syracuse man received a suspended sentence after two instances of dealing a controlled substance to an undercover officer with the NET43 Drug Task Force.

Michael Alen Perzanowski, 52, 8469 E. Lakeview Drive, Syracuse, was charged with dealing in a schedule IV controlled substance, a level 5 felony. An additional controlled substance dealing charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Perzanowski was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Jan. 4.

In March 2019, an officer with the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of 15.6 grams of Alprazolam from Perzanowski. In April 2019, an officer made a second controlled purchase of 11.7 grams of Alprazolam from Perzanowski. Both controlled purchases were captured by digital surveillance.

Alprazolam is an anti-anxiety medication also known as Xanax.

Court proceedings focused on Perzanowski’s growth and the lifestyle changes he’s made. Several letters of support on Perzanowski’s behalf were also submitted to the court.

“He’s taken very serious steps toward recovery,” said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler about Perzanowski. “This certainly goes a long way toward his improvement.”

“He’s made significant changes and wants to keep on the path he’s on,” said Defense Attorney Scott Reust. “He’s a different person than he was when he was committing crimes.”

“My life has changed course and that has saved my life,” said Perzanowski. “If I don’t stay vigilant in my recovery, it’s back to square one.”

For dealing in a schedule IV controlled substance, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Perzanowski to three years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. The entirety of the sentence was suspended, with the first two years of Perzanowski’s sentence to be served through work release. Perzanowski also has 35 days of jail time credit in the case.

“This is hard because you’ve done so much improvement,” said Judge Reed. “Stay on the path you’re on.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Morgan Rachael Wood

WARSAW — A Warsaw woman will avoid prison time after impressing a judge and several jail officials with her efforts to stay sober.

Morgan Rachael Wood, 36, 1310 E. Clark St., Warsaw, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge and a separate drug possession case were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Wood was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, Jan. 28.

On Dec. 5, 2018, a Warsaw Police officer witnessed Wood deal 198.3 grams of methamphetamine.

After witnessing the drug deal, officers obtained a search warrant for Wood’s residence. In a bedroom belonging to Shane A. Timmons and Jamie L. Hecke, who were also arrested in this case, officers found 28.9 grams of methamphetamine, scales, small empty bags and a handgun. Wood told officers that Hecke had accompanied her to obtain seven ounces of methamphetamine.

Timmons was sentenced in this case in October 2019 for methamphetamine possession. He received a seven-year Indiana Department of Corrections sentence.

For Hecke, this case was dismissed as part of a plea agreement in a second drug dealing case, which happened in May 2019. In that matter, Hecke received a 20-year DoC sentence, with 2 1/2 years suspended on probation.

During court proceedings, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler said he had two major concerns with Wood’s case, including the drug amount and Wood failing to complete a program at Serenity House. However, Buehler noted that Serenity House is willing to accept Wood back into their program.

“So long as she’s in a secure environment, she seems to thrive,” said Buehler.

Defense Attorney Sarah Ober said Wood has made very impressive progress with her sobriety, having graduated from the Kosciusko County Jail Chemical Addiction Program (JCAP) twice. She said sending Wood to prison would not help her recovery process.

“It would cut her off from her connections and support system,” said Ober. “I’ve heard amazing things about Morgan in JCAP. She’s going to work on recovery every day of her life.”

Wood said that during her incarceration, she has rebuilt relationships with Christ, her parents and children.

“I was clean for seven years before I relapsed,” said Wood. “God is at the center of my life now, and with that, I’ll stay clean and sober.”

Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed said he was initially considering a prison sentence for Wood; however, upon seeing Wood’s recovery progress and the positive actions she’s taken, he changed his mind.

“You’ve earned the opportunity and you’ve undergone real change,” said Judge Reed. ‘I’ve seen what you’ve done and who you’ve helped.”

For dealing in methamphetamine, Judge Reed sentenced Wood to nine years in prison, with the entirety of the sentence to be served through Kosciusko County’s work release and community corrections programs. Five years of the sentence will be served through work release and four years served through community corrections. She also has 731 days of jail time credit in the case and must pay $3,000 in restitution to the NET43 Drug Task Force.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Tiffany Ann Galloway

WARSAW — A Lafayette woman will avoid prison after dealing drugs to an undercover officer.

Tiffany Ann Galloway, 21, Lafayette, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 4 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Galloway was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Feb. 1.

On June 19, 2018, Warsaw Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of more than 10 grams of methamphetamine from Galloway. The controlled purchase was captured on audio and video.

During court proceedings, Galloway said she’s fully accepted responsibility for her actions and has taken time to reflect and grow since her arrest.

“I want to take the time to continue growing and doing the right thing,” said Galloway.

For dealing in methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Galloway to six years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. The first two years of Galloway’s sentence will either be served in the Kosciusko County Jail or through Tippecanoe County’s work release program. The last four years of Galloway’s sentence was suspended on probation. She must also pay $1,500 in restitution to the NET43 Drug Task Force.

“I trust that you’ll continue moving forward,” said Judge Reed to Galloway. “Good luck.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Mark Edward Thurman

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve five years in prison after dealing drugs to an undercover officer.

Mark Edward Thurman, 49, Warsaw, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge, as well as a second methamphetamine dealing case, were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Thurman was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, Feb. 4.

On June 4, 2019, the drug task force made a controlled purchase of 14 grams of methamphetamine from Thurman.

During court proceedings, Brian Jackson with Serenity House, testified on behalf of Thurman. Jackson said he’s known Thurman for about five years and that he’s been involved in the Serenity House program since late 2019.

Jackson said initially, Thurman was a “tough nut to crack” with starting him on a path to recovery. However, Jackson said Thurman has done very well and is even an executive senior house resident at Serenity House. With this title, Thurman manages the house while Jackson is not there. Jackson also noted Thurman has not relapsed since starting the program.

“I’ve seen a lot of the hard work he’s put into himself,” said Jackson. “He’s steadfast, still working with the program and is gainfully employed. He’s well on his way to being a productive member of society.”

Defense Attorney David Kolbe asked those in the courtroom who were there in support of Thurman to stand. Five people stood.

“He’s done some really good things,” said Kolbe about Thurman’s progress. “We solve nothing (with addiction) through a cement box with bars. Our ultimate goal here is rehabilitation.”

Kolbe asked Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed to consider placing Thurman into Michiana Community Corrections with ankle monitoring.

Judge Reed noted Thurman’s successes but also mentioned that Thurman has had 28 criminal convictions within 20-plus years.

“I always want you to be successful,” said Judge Reed. “It’s going to be a long path for a long time. But letting you walk out of here is an unrealistic request. This isn’t because you’re an addict. It’s because of the criminal conduct and having a handgun while you’re a convicted felon. I can’t let that go unpunished.”

For dealing methamphetamine, Judge Reed sentenced Thurman to seven years in prison, with the last two years of the sentence suspended on probation.

Thurman was also recommended for the Recovery While Incarcerated program and must pay $300 in restitution to NET43 Drug Task Force. He also has 104 days of jail time credit in this case.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Keith J. Vuittonet

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve a six-year sentence through work release and probation after officers searched a home and found drugs while children were present.

Keith J. Vuittonet, 34, 960 W. Tippecanoe St., Warsaw, was charged with dealing in methamphetamine, a level 4 felony; and neglect of a dependent, a level 5 felony. Methamphetamine possession and maintaining a common nuisance charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Vuittonet was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, Feb. 18.

In March 2019, the NET43 Drug Task Force obtained a search warrant for a residence on Wooster Road in Winona Lake. The search warrant was a result of information regarding the usage and distribution of marijuana and methamphetamine at the home. Four adults, including Vuittonet, and two young children were present in the home when the warrant was served.

While searching the residence, officers found more than 10 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. It was discovered that the adults were attempting to dispose of the methamphetamine in the toilet.

One of the adults in the home, Cara G. Vuittonet, was sentenced in January 2020 to five years in the Indiana Department of Corrections for this case.

For dealing in methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Vuittonet to six years in prison. He was also sentenced to three years for neglect of a dependent. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time.

Instead of serving the sentence through DoC, the first three years of Vuittonet’s sentence will be served through the county’s work-release program, with the last three years served through probation.

Vuittonet also has 90 days of jail time credit in this case.

“This is a good thing for you,” said Judge Reed. “Stay clean and see what you can do.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Austin Lee King

WARSAW — A South Whitley man will serve six years in prison after dealing methamphetamine to a NET43 Drug Task Force informant.

Austin Lee King, 29, 104 Eel River Manor, South Whitley, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge, as well as an additional methamphetamine dealing case, were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

King was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, Feb. 25.

Sometime during September 2020, the NET43 Drug Task Force was contacted by an informant saying they had agreed to purchase meth from Kyle S. Ousley, Warsaw, at a local gas station. The informant was provided with NET43 documented funds for the controlled purchase.

According to court documents, the informant met Ousley in a vehicle parked at a gas station. King was in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The informant gave King the documented funds; Ousley then handed the informant a plastic bag containing seven grams of methamphetamine.

Ousley is facing charges and has a pretrial conference in this case in April.

On Sept. 23, 2020, a Pierceton Police officer was informed of a vehicle making a lane change without signaling. The officer found the vehicle and identified the driver as King. A K9 unit alerted to illegal drugs in King’s vehicle.

While searching the vehicle, officers found a cellphone box containing six small bags of methamphetamine that weighed a total of 18 grams.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler and Defense Attorney John Barrett both agreed that King’s plea agreement for these matters was fair and reasonable.

Barrett requested Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed recommend King for the Recovery While Incarcerated program as part of his sentence.

“I’ve seen a great change in Austin,” said Barrett. “He thinks fairly clearly when he’s not on drugs.”

“I want RWI to get help and put this behind me,” said King.

For dealing methamphetamine, Judge Reed sentenced King to nine years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with three years suspended on probation. He also recommended King for RWI.

King must pay $320 in restitution to NET43.

“It’s going to be up to you, but show me you’re serious and want to work at it,” said Judge Reed.

Staff Report

WARSAW — Frank Daniels, 35, with addresses on file as both 721 S. Main St., Middlebury, and 220 S. Bronson St., Warsaw, was sentenced in three separate cases in Kosciusko Circuit Court Monday, March 8.

Frank Daniels

In the first case, Daniels pleaded guilty to dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, a level 4 felony.

This case resulted from a narcotics transaction in front of Shamrock Trailer Court, off of Anchorage Road, Warsaw, in September 2017.

Judge Michael Reed sentenced Daniels to five years for each charge at the Indiana Department of Corrections and ordered the sentences to be served concurrently.

Daniels received jail time credit of 920 days in this case.

Daniels accumulated additional charges following a drug interdiction detail conducted by NET 43 in August 2019.

In the second case, Daniels pleaded guilty to dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony. He was sentenced to five years at IDOC and given three days of jail time credit. The sentencing in this case was ordered to be served consecutive to the sentence imposed in the first case.

In the third case, Daniels pleaded guilty to possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. He was sentenced to two years at the Kosciusko County Jail, with the sentence to be served consecutive to the sentences in the other two cases. Judge Reed then ordered this sentence suspended, to be served through formal probation. This sentence will be served last.

Judge Reed recommended that Daniels participate in the Recovery While Incarcerated program and stated there would be no chance of a sentence modification unless Daniels successfully completes RWI and remains conduct clear while in prison.

“I would like to take full responsibility for what I’ve done and get this behind me,” Daniels said.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Deborah K. McMahan

WARSAW — A Cromwell woman will serve a six-year sentence locally after two controlled drug purchases occurred at her home.

Deborah K. McMahan, 61, 9783 E. Chickadee Drive, Cromwell, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony. Seven additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

McMahan was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, April 12.

In February 2020, NET43 investigators made a controlled purchase of 3.8 grams of methamphetamine from Deborah and William F. McMahan.

In March 2020, another controlled purchase took place at the McMahan residence. As a result of their work, investigators learned the McMahans were expecting a large amount of methamphetamine soon; this led to a search warrant being obtained for the residence.

According to court documents, while searching the residence, officers found a bag containing methamphetamine and multiple plastic bags.

William has a change of plea hearing for this case at 10 a.m. May 17.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney David Kolbe asked Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed to consider Deborah’s age and criminal history prior to sentencing. He said Deborah’s criminal history was very minor.

Deborah said she has applied for the county’s community corrections program, as well as residency at The Rose Home and Serenity House.

For dealing methamphetamine, Judge Reed sentenced Deborah to six years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. However, he ordered the first three years of the sentence to be served at the Kosciusko County Jail or through work release. The last three years are suspended on probation.

“This is a serious offense and you must be held accountable for your actions no matter your age,” said Judge Reed. “But it’s never too late to start doing something for your recovery.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Justin Harry Pontious

WARSAW — A Nappanee man will locally serve a six-year sentence after more than 40 grams of methamphetamine were found in his vehicle.

Justin Harry Pontious, 31, 351 W. Randolph St., Nappanee, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony. A methamphetamine possession charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Pontious was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, April 12.

On Sept. 14, 2018, a Warsaw Police officer saw a vehicle make an improper turn in the area of US 30 and CR 800W. The officer identified the driver as Pontious.

According to court documents, while speaking with Pontious, the officer smelled marijuana. A K9 unit also made a positive alert on Pontious’ vehicle for illegal drugs.

While searching the vehicle, officers found a bag containing marijuana, as well as various drug paraphernalia. Multiple plastic bags containing methamphetamine were also found in the vehicle. The total amount of methamphetamine in the vehicle was 42.3 grams.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine said Pontious was able to earn a second chance through his actions toward improving his life.

“Over the last 1 1/2 years, he’s done what he’s needed to do and has earned a lot of people’s trust,” said Rovenstine on Pontious.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Pontious to six years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. The first 3 1/2 years of Pontious’ sentence will be served at the Kosciusko County Jail or through the county’s work release program. The last 2 1/2 years of the sentence was suspended on probation. Pontious also has 57 days of jail time credit in the case.

“It’s fairly impressive what you’ve done,” said Judge Reed. “Recovery is not an event, it’s a process.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Jose Luis Izaguirre

WARSAW — A Warsaw man was sentenced to 35 years in prison after molesting a child more than 20 times.

Jose Luis Izaguirre, 32, Warsaw, was initially charged with three counts of child molesting, all level 1 felonies. During a three-day jury trial in April, Izaguirre was found guilty on two of the charges.

Izaguirre was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Thursday, May 20. He did not give any type of statement during court proceedings. A translator worked alongside Izaguirre to interpret what was said in court.

According to court documents, on March 29, 2019, a Child Protective Services caseworker received information that Izaguirre was having sexual intercourse with a child.

The child told the caseworker that Izaguirre began inappropriately touching them at the age of seven. The interactions turned into sexual intercourse two years later. The child said they would tell Izaguirre no but that he would hold them down and yell. They also said Izaguirre made them watch pornographic videos.

The child said the molestations continued about two times a month until February 2019.

A Warsaw Police officer spoke with Izaguirre about the allegations. Court documents state Izaguirre admitted to sexually touching and molesting the child more than 20 times. He also admitted to watching pornographic videos with them.

During court proceedings, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Joseph Sobek called the child’s mother for testimony. She elaborated on how her child being molested has affected her family emotionally, physically and mentally.

“It’s affected everything,” said the child’s mother. “I’ve dealt with a lot of things a mother never should.”

The child also gave an emotional victim impact statement in court, asking Izaguirre to maintain eye contact with them during their testimony.

“You put me through so much,” said the child. “I’ve lost hours of sleep and lost my self-confidence. You broke me and put me through so much pain and suffering.”

The child said when people ask them about being molested, they usually hear comments on how they’re now a much stronger person.

“I was a child, I didn’t need to be stronger,” said the child. “You don’t understand how hard it was to be here (for the trial.)”

Sobek listed several aggravators for the court to consider for sentencing, including the amount of damage caused, the child’s age at the time of the incidents and Izaguirre’s lack of remorse. He said Izaguirre having no criminal history is the single mitigator but that due to the aggravators, he is considered high-risk to reoffend.

“This crime itself was extremely brutal,” said Sobek.

Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon argued that Izaguirre has not shown remorse because he entered a not guilty plea and that that cannot be used as reasoning.

For the second child molesting count, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Izaguirre to 40 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. Izaguirre was sentenced to 30 years in DoC for the third count. Five years of the sentence was suspended on probation. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time. In total, Izaguirre received a 35-year prison sentence.

Per Indiana Code 35-31.5-2-72, Izaguirre is considered a credit restricted felon. This applies to a person who has been convicted of child molesting involving sexual intercourse for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or other sexual conduct for a crime committed after June 30, 2014, if the offense is committed by someone at least 21 years of age and if the victim is less than 12 years of age. For every six days Izaguirre serves for his sentence, he will receive one credit day.

“The aggravators clearly outweigh the one mitigator,” said Judge Reed. “This was a plan perpetrated over years. He failed to take remorse for the actions he was convicted on.”

Izaguirre has 783 days of jail time credit in this case, plus good time credit as calculated. He is also subject to sex offender rules and must register as a sex offender.

Izaguirre said he intends to pursue an appeal regarding the court’s sentence.

Related Article

Jury Finds Izaguirre Guilty Of Molestation

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Christopher Aaron Susaraba

WARSAW — A Mishawaka man will serve 40 years in prison after dealing drugs to a Kosciusko County Jail inmate who overdosed and died.

On top of that, he’s still facing similar charges in Kosciusko and St. Joesph Counties for attempting to sneak drugs into correctional facilities.

Christopher Aaron Susaraba, 31, was found guilty in a June jury trial of dealing in a controlled substance resulting in death, a level 1 felony; trafficking with an inmate, a level 5 felony; and a habitual offender enhancement. Through the enhancement, judges can enhance a jail or prison sentence.

Susaraba has two prior unrelated felony convictions for burglary and dealing methamphetamine. Because of these convictions, a habitual offender enhancement was added to Susaraba’s case.

He was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Friday, July 23.

According to court documents, on March 9, 2019, Kosciusko County Jail officers responded to a report of an unresponsive inmate. Officers entered a cell block to find an inmate performing CPR on Dennis McCrory, 39, Michigan. The inmate told officers McCrory was overdosing on heroin.

Officers continued CPR until medical personnel arrived, performed CPR and administered Narcan with no success. McCrory was later pronounced dead in Fort Wayne.

On March 11, 2019, a pathologist ruled the cause of death as acute mixed drug intoxication. A drug screen showed methamphetamine and narcotics were in McCrory’s body.

Several witnesses said Susaraba brought a large amount of heroin and methamphetamine into the jail. Witnesses said Susaraba was dealing heroin and methamphetamine to multiple inmates in exchange for money. Exactly how he snuck the drugs into the jail was not revealed during the trial.

Susaraba provided a large amount of methamphetamine and heroin to McCrory, who used the drugs, became lethargic and eventually overdosed and died.

During court proceedings, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler focused on Susaraba’s significant criminal history, saying that and a probation violation at the time of the offense are substantial aggravators.

He noted that Susaraba has five additional convictions aside from the two used by the state for the habitual offender enhancement.

Buehler also noted out that Susaraba has two other pending cases in which he allegedly tried to bring drugs into correctional facilities.

He faces a Level 5 felony for trafficking with an inmate after an incident in Kosciusko County following McCrory’s death. Susaraba is accused of trying to coordinate the passage of drugs into the jail with the help of others. The scheme did not work successfully.

Susaraba is also facing two felony charges in St. Joseph County for dealing in a narcotic drug and trafficking with an inmate following the death of an inmate in the Ducomb Center.

On Dec. 24, 2017, responding emergency personnel found an unresponsive man in a Ducomb Center dormitory. The man, Cody Woody, 28, Mishawaka, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two days later, Alexander Traxler, an inmate at the facility, requested to speak with officers about the incident. Traxler said Woody got narcotic drugs from Susaraba and that the three of them used the drugs together.

Susaraba denied having anything to do with Woody receiving drugs and said Traxler administered the drugs. Traxler is also facing the same charges that Susaraba is in that matter.

Defense Attorney Everett Newman argued for mitigators in Susaraba’s case. He said there was no evidence that Susaraba contemplated harming someone with drugs. Newman also argued the St. Joseph County case cannot be used as an aggravator since the charges are pending and Susaraba has a presumption of innocence. He asked the court to consider a sentence less than the advisory sentence of 30 years.

“I’ll take what you give me and make better of myself while I’m down there,” said Susaraba to Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed.

Judge Reed remarked on Susaraba’s “terrible” criminal history.

“If not contemplated, your actions were severe,” said Judge Reed. “I’ve never once heard you at least say sorry that a man died. That disturbs me and concerns me a lot. Your failure to take accountability is your own fault.”

For dealing in a controlled substance resulting in death, Judge Reed sentenced Susaraba to 30 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. The trafficking with an inmate charge merges into the Level 1 felony. He also added an additional 10 years to Susaraba’s sentence through the habitual offender enhancement.

In total, Susaraba will serve 40 years in IDoC. He has 762 days, or roughly two years, of jail time credit. Susaraba said he intends to appeal the sentence and requested Newman act as his counsel through the appeal process.

Related Article:

Jury Finds Susaraba Guilty In Fatal Jail Overdose Case

Staff Report

WARSAW — A Warsaw man was sentenced to 14 years in prison Wednesday, July 28, in Kosciusko County Circuit Court.

Daniel C. Holbrook

Pursuant to a plea agreement, Daniel Craig Holbrook, 26, 920 Anchorage Road 11, Warsaw, pleaded guilty to five charges involving four separate cases.

The charges included dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony; dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony; two counts of resisting law enforcement, both level 6 felonies; and failure to appear, a level 6 felony.

Additional charges were dismissed in accordance to the terms of the plea agreement. A fifth case was also dismissed.

In 2019, Holbrook was arrested on drug-related charges stemming from multiple incidents over a period of time.

According to police, Holbrook was seen selling methamphetamine by members of the Kosciusko County’s NET43 Drug Task Force in December 2018.

In February 2019, police observed a vehicle operating in Warsaw with only one headlight. The officer who made the traffic stop identified Holbrook as the driver and reported that Holbrook said he did not have a license. Central Dispatch reportedly told the officer Holbrook had never held a valid license and reported that Holbrook had an arrest warrant. While taking Holbrook into custody, police then reported finding marijuana, a smoking device, methamphetamine and Hydrocodone in the vehicle.

Holbrook was released and scheduled for a March 14 hearing. He was placed on the county’s most-wanted list in July and August before being booked Aug. 22 on the outstanding charges. Charges of felony failure to appear and resisting law enforcement were added at that time.

On Sept. 25, 2020, the NET43 Drug Task Force purchased 48.2 grams of meth from Holbrook. NET43 then purchased 8.6 grams of meth from Holbrook on Sept. 30, 2020, and 82 grams of meth from Holbrook a week later.

All purchases involved documented task force money and were captured on digital surveillance.

Holbrook also has a prior conviction from 2016 for dealing methamphetamine.

In court Wednesday, Holbrook was represented by two attorneys: Travis Neff and John Barrett.

Neff said Holbrook was quick to own responsibility for his actions.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler described Holbrook as “a young man who I think is very capable of doing the right thing” and said he hopes Holbrook does so once his sentence is complete.

When Judge Michael Reed asked if Holbrook had anything to say, Holbrook apologized for his actions, adding, “That’s just how I was brought up, unfortunately.”

“You can’t do anything to change what’s been done,” Reed said. “But you can change what happens going forward…and I hope you do.”

In the first case, Reed sentenced Holbrook to 10 years at the Indiana Dept. of Corrections for the Level 2 felony charge of dealing methamphetamine and one year for resisting arrest. The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently, meaning at the same time, but consecutive to sentences imposed in the other cases. Holbrook was given 170 days of jail time credit in that case and ordered to pay restitution to the NET43 Drug Task Force.

In the second case, Holbrook was sentenced to one year in prison for resisting law enforcement, with the sentence suspended and ordered to be served on formal probation.

In the third case, Reed sentenced Holbrook to one year at IDOC for failure to appear. This sentence was also suspended and ordered to be served on probation.

Lastly, in the fourth case, Holbrook was sentenced to six years in prison for dealing methamphetamine. Reed ordered Holbrook to serve four years of the sentence, with the last two years to be suspended and served on probation. Holbrook was given 303 days of jail time credit in this case.

Reed recommended that Holbrook participate in the Recovery While Incarcerated program and said a sentence modification may be considered at some point if Holbrook remains drug-free and conduct-clear while incarcerated.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Brianne Lynn Fields

WARSAW — A Claypool woman received a three-year jail sentence for two drug-related cases.

In the first case, Brianne Lynn Fields, 23, 405 S. Graceland Ave., Claypool, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 5 felony. Fields was also charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; and visiting a common nuisance, a class B misdemeanor, in a second case. Ten additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Fields was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Aug. 30. Several of Fields’ relatives attended the sentencing in support of her.

On Dec. 8, 2019, the NET43 Drug Task Force investigated a tip which led to the discovery of methamphetamine and paraphernalia at a Claypool home. After further investigation by the Claypool Police Department, it was determined that illegal drugs and paraphernalia came from the residence on Dec. 11, 2019, and Dec. 18, 2019.

Acting on a search warrant, police found five people in the residence, including Fields.

Police found a metal box inside the home containing a plastic bag with methamphetamine, a syringe, a glass pipe with white residue, several plastic bags containing white power residue, scales and numerous smoking devices. Police also found identifying information for Fields in the box.

On Feb. 26, 2020, an officer assigned to the NET43 Drug Task Force Unit responded to a 911 hang-up call at an East Clark Street residence in Warsaw. Upon officers’ arrival, four women, including Fields, were at the home. While at the residence, officers smelled marijuana, which resulted in officers obtaining a search warrant for the home.

In the home, officers found a plastic cup containing 10.5 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale with white residue, drug paraphernalia, and bags of marijuana.

One of Fields’ co-defendants, Sheri Courson, 58, Warsaw, was sentenced in July to three years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. However, the entirety of her sentence was suspended. She must serve the first two years through the county’s community corrections program and the final year through formal probation.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney John Barrett said Fields’ ultimate goal is to put her mistakes behind her.

“I want to get this all behind me,” said Fields. “I need to be the mom that I know I can be.”

For the Level 5 methamphetamine possession charge, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Fields to two years in the Kosciusko County Jail. She was also sentenced to one year in KCJ for the Level 6 methamphetamine possession charge and two months in KCJ for visiting a common nuisance. The Level 6 possession and misdemeanor common nuisance will both be served concurrently, or at the same time. The sentence imposed in Fields’ second case will be served consecutively to the first case. However, the sentence in Fields’ February 2020 case was suspended on probation.

In total, Fields received a three-year jail sentence, with two years executed and one year on formal probation. Judge Reed showed no objection to Fields serving her executed sentence through work release. Fields also has a total of 81 days of jail time credit from these two cases.

“You still got a chance to grow,” said Judge Reed. “Do something about it.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Kendall Elizabeth Rodgers

WARSAW — A woman will participate in community corrections and avoid jail time after making positive steps in her recovery from drug use.

Kendall Elizabeth Rodgers, 27, 721 S. Main St., Middlebury, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 5 felony; and possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. Methamphetamine possession and maintaining a common nuisance charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Rodgers was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Aug. 30.

On Aug. 15, 2019, NET43 Drug Task Force officers obtained a search warrant for a home on West CR 400N in Warsaw. The warrant was based upon intelligence gathered from several traffic stops.

At the home, officers found 131 grams of methamphetamine and one gram of heroin. During the search, three people at the home, including Rodgers, were taken into custody.

One of Rodgers’ co-defendants, Frank Daniels, was sentenced in March to five years in the Indiana Department of Corrections for dealing methamphetamine.

During court proceedings, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Matt Buehler said details in Rodgers’ pre-sentence investigation report speak volumes for the responsibility she’s taken.

“Kendall has come a long way from where she started in this case,” said Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon. “This is a lifestyle she’s put behind her.”

Rodgers said she’s celebrating 18 months of sobriety and acknowledged having a great support system behind her to continue down the right path. She also said she recently completed a rehabilitative program.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Rodgers to three years in the Kosciusko County Jail. She was also sentenced to one year in KCJ for narcotic drug possession. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time. The final year of Rodgers’ sentence was also suspended on formal probation.

In total, Rodgers received a three-year jail sentence, with two years executed and one year suspended. Judge Reed said he had no objection to Rodgers serving her executed sentence through work release or community corrections. Rodgers has been accepted into the county’s community corrections program.

“You’ve taken good steps,” said Judge Reed. “I want you to stay on that path.”

From left, Kosciusko Superior Court 1 Judge Karin McGrath and Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed announced the new program this week. Photo provided by Judge McGrath.

News Release

WARSAW — Kosciusko County’s adopted children and adoptive families are receiving new backpacks and other gifts through the court system thanks to the support of the nationwide “Jockey Being Family” program.

Kosciusko Superior Court 1 Judge Karin McGrath and Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed announced the new program this week. Superior Court 1 and Circuit Court are the courts that handle Kosciusko County adoptions.

“Newly adopted children receive a nice, quality backpack, filled with a teddy bear, fleece blanket and reading material,” Judge Reed said. “And, equally important, the adoptive parents receive a Parent Tote with valuable information for them, too. It’s all provided at no cost to the parents or taxpayers.”

“The backpacks are personalized with a monogram of the child’s initials—in the child’s favorite color, if desired,” Judge McGrath said. “In some cases, that’s the first time the child’s new initials are seen on anything. The eyes of the first little girl who received one of these gifts lit up, and she literally gasped as she pulled out this cuddly bear and super soft blanket. It was really touching for the whole family.”

The Parent Tote is filled with a book and other information on articles, webinars, podcasts and online courses made available through Jockey’s partners on topics relevant to many issues that families may experience as they adjust to their new situation. The resources are fully funded by the Jockey Being Family Foundation.

The Jockey Being Family Foundation was founded by Chairman Debra Waller, who was adopted herself and wanted to offer support and funding to provide crucial resources to adoptive families.

“All adoptive children under the age of 18 and their adoptive families are eligible to receive these gifts. That includes foster parent adoption, step-parent adoption or any other situation. We expect the program to be very well received,” commented Judge Reed.

“Adoption really is a lifelong journey, not just an event. We hope this program and its resources help families along the way toward a strong, united, and loving lifetime together,” Judge McGrath said.

Adoptive families may call Kosciusko Superior Court 1 or Circuit Court a few weeks in advance to request a backpack for their adoption hearing.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Bradford Wayne Scarbro

WARSAW — A Milford man will serve 10 years in prison after a traffic stop resulted in the discovery of more than 120 grams of methamphetamine.

Bradford Wayne Scarbro, 33, 20292 US Highway 6, Milford, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; and failure to appear, a level 6 felony. Four additional criminal charges and three criminal cases were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Scarbro was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Nov. 15.

On Aug. 19, 2020, a Warsaw Police officer noticed a vehicle traveling south on Detroit Street. The officer pulled the vehicle over upon recognizing it from prior incidents and knew the vehicle was improperly registered.

According to court documents, the vehicle’s driver, identified as Scarbro, told the officer he did not have a driver’s license. A K9 unit alerted to the presence of drugs in Scarbro’s vehicle.

While searching Scarbro’s vehicle, officers found a locked container with four bags of methamphetamine that weighed more than 120 grams, and a silver container with 1.9 grams of methamphetamine.

Scarbro told officers he had just purchased over three ounces of methamphetamine and admitted he was going to sell a third-party half an ounce that evening for $500. He also admitted that he sold methamphetamine to multiple people in different amounts.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Scott Reust said Scarbro has been accepted into the county’s work release program. He said the core of Scarbro’s crimes relates to substance abuse.

“He wants help and is seeking help,” said Reust.

Scarbro said his lifestyle choices were wrong and expressed his desire to participate in rehabilitative programs for addiction.

“I’m not a monster, but an addict who has lost his way,” said Scarbro.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Scarbro to nine years in the Indiana Department of Correction. He also received a one-year prison sentence for failure to appear.

“The sentence is not for being an addict,” said Judge Reed. “It’s for your criminal conduct in selling meth. We can’t have that.”

In total, Scarbro will serve 10 years in DoC. The case will be served consecutively to a prior misdemeanor case.

Judge Reed recommended Scarbro for the Recovery While Incarcerated program while he serves his prison sentence.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Gerardo Sanchez Jr.

WARSAW — A Syracuse man will serve a four-year sentence through probation after impressing the courts with how he’s changed his lifestyle and avoided drug use.

In the first case, Gerardo Sanchez Jr., 30, 508 N. Parkway Drive Apartment A., Syracuse, was charged with maintaining a common nuisance, a level 6 felony. He was also charged with carrying a handgun without a license, a level 5 felony, in a second case. Ten additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Sanchez was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 6.

On May 23, 2019, the Warsaw Police Department responded to a domestic battery. Upon arrival at the scene, officers saw a woman who had visible injuries to her face. Sanchez, who was also at the home, had a scratch under his right eye. While speaking with the woman, officers smelled marijuana coming from the home. Four children were inside the residence.

While searching the home, officers found 11 plastic bags containing a total of 7.2 grams of marijuana. Officers also found drug paraphernalia and 60 grams of THC oil.

On Oct. 29, 2020, a Syracuse Police officer noticed a speeding vehicle. The officer attempted to pull the speeding vehicle over. However, a maroon Buick in between the officer and the speeding driver did not yield to the officer and allow him to pass. This resulted in the officer pulling the Buick’s driver over.

While approaching the vehicle, the officer could immediately smell marijuana. The Buick’s driver, identified as Sanchez, said he had smoked marijuana earlier that day. While searching the vehicle, the officer found a loaded pistol under the front seat of the vehicle. Sanchez said the firearm belonged to a relative and that he didn’t hold a firearm carry permit.

During court proceedings, it was noted that about 10 to 15 pages worth of letters supporting Sanchez were submitted to the court for review. Several of Sanchez’s family members also attended the sentencing in support.

Defense Attorney Adam Brower focused on how Sanchez has changed for the better. He told the court that Sanchez has primarily focused on getting healthy, both physically and mentally, in order to do better for his kids.

“He is a totally different person now,” said Brower. “He understands the behavior he was in wasn’t conducive. This is the wakeup call that was needed for him.”

As a result of Sanchez’s cases, his parental rights to his children were taken away. However, the Department of Child Services has since reunified him with his children since Sanchez has improved and changed his lifestyle.

Brower also told the court that Sanchez is a few training hours away from becoming a licensed barber.

For maintaining a common nuisance, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed gave Sanchez a one-year sentence at the Indiana Department of Correction. He also received a three-year DoC sentence for carrying a handgun without a license. Both cases will be served consecutively.

In total, Sanchez received a four-year sentence, which was all suspended on probation.

Judge Reed commended Sanchez for changing his habits and encouraged him to continue down the path he’s on.

“You’ve earned this opportunity,” said Judge Reed. “You’ve actually done it.”

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Dustin Wayne Hine

WARSAW — A man received a four-year prison sentence for drug and illegal handgun possession.

Dustin Wayne Hine, 35, La Porte, was charged with possession of methamphetamine and carrying a handgun with a prior conviction, both level 5 felonies; and making a false sales document, a level 6 felony. Five additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Hine was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 27.

On Nov. 20, 2020, a Warsaw Police officer responded to a welfare check on a woman in a vehicle. The officer arrived on scene and saw a woman inside a vehicle and a man standing outside of the vehicle.

According to court documents, the man said he left his wallet in Walmart and began to walk toward the store. The Warsaw officer walked into the store and had the man return to the vehicle.

A K9 unit at the scene alerted to the presence of illegal drugs inside the vehicle. While searching the vehicle, officers found drug paraphernalia with methamphetamine residue, bags of unused syringes, and a handgun reported stolen by the LaPorte Police Department. A wallet containing Hine’s identification was also found in the vehicle.

The officer was notified that Hine had left Walmart and was walking east toward North Detroit Street. Information was gathered that Hine had dumped merchandise belonging to Walmart in a dumpster behind a local business.

Hine told the officer that he drove the vehicle to Walmart and said the man and woman were passengers in his vehicle. He said he was not aware of the handgun in the vehicle but admitted to using methamphetamine. When asked about the items in the dumpster, Hine said he purchased the items but denied swapping the universal product codes on the merchandise.

Walmart employees said Hine paid for his transaction but that he placed false UPC labels on the merchandise that he scanned. In total, Hine paid $11.02 for merchandise valued at $91.26.

Hine was previously convicted of theft in Porter County in November 2016. He was also previously convicted of criminal recklessness in La Porte County in April 2019.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine submitted an acceptance letter from La Porte County’s Problem Solving Court as evidence. Problem Solving Court allows eligible participants to avoid post-conviction incarceration by agreeing to complete a substance abuse treatment program, remain alcohol and drug-free, and complete other evidence-based practices.

Rovenstine said La Porte County is still willing to accept Hine into its program if he receives a suspended sentence through Kosciusko County. However, he asked the court to recommend Hine for Recovery While Incarcerated if he receives prison time.

“He sincerely wants help for his addiction,” said Rovenstine.

“My addiction is something I fight every day,” said Hine. “I want to prove to the court and to my support system I can actually change. It’s a problem and I need to fix it.”

Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed told Hine that a suspended sentence was “unrealistic” due to the charges.

“It’s up to you to show you want to change, not just lip service,” said Judge Reed. “You have to want it.”

For methamphetamine possession and carrying a handgun without a license with a prior conviction, Judge Reed sentenced Hine to three years in the Indiana Department of Correction on each charge. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time.

Hine also received a one-year DoC sentence for making a false sales document. The count will be served consecutively to Hine’s other two charges.

In total, Hine received a four-year prison sentence. The case will be served consecutively to two additional criminal cases.

Hine must also pay $26.97 in restitution to Walmart. Judge Reed also recommended Hine for RWI during his prison sentence.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Torri Shyenne Calland

WARSAW — A Milford woman will serve a 5 1/2 year sentence locally on three criminal cases.

In the first case, Torri Shyenne Calland, 28, 427 E. 1150N Lot 20, Milford, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony. She was charged with dealing a controlled substance, a level 5 felony; and theft, a level 6 felony, in a second case. Calland was also sentenced on a Level 6 residential entry charge in a third case. Eight additional criminal charges were dismissed in plea agreements.

Calland was sentenced on the first two cases in Kosciusko Circuit Court, and the third case in Kosciusko Superior Court Two, on Tuesday, Jan. 18.

On Jan. 3, 2020, a Syracuse Police officer pulled over a blue Mazda because its license plate number returned to a Green Pontiac Grand Am. Calland, who was driving the Mazda, said she had just bought the vehicle and produced a title that was signed in August 2019. A K9 unit at the scene alerted police to illegal drugs in the vehicle.

While searching the vehicle, officers found 3.5 grams of methamphetamine.

On March 5, 2020, a Milford Police officer responded to a report of a disabled vehicle. The reporting person said the vehicle’s driver, Calland, requested police not be called because the vehicle’s owners did not know where the vehicle was. Officers later contacted the vehicle’s owners, who said their vehicle was stolen overnight.

According to court documents, the officer noticed Calland had unsteady balance and difficulty concentrating. Due to this behavior, the Milford officer requested a K9 unit. The K9 unit alerted police to illegal drugs in the vehicle.

While searching the stolen vehicle, officers found 35 grams of synthetic marijuana and 21 pills identified as controlled substances. Upon searching Calland’s person, officers found several plastic bags containing synthetic marijuana and $291 in small bills. The items appeared to be packaged for sale or distribution.

Officers later interviewed the stolen vehicle’s owners. They said they allowed Calland to drive the vehicle earlier on March 4, 2020; however, she did not return the vehicle when they asked her to. Calland did eventually return the vehicle later on March 4, 2020, and the owners told her she would not be allowed to use the vehicle again.

When the owners went to bed, at some point during the night, Calland entered their home without permission, took the keys to their vehicle, and left with the vehicle.

Around 3 a.m. Dec. 19, 2020, a Syracuse Police officer responded to a report of an unwanted subject. Upon arrival, the officer saw Calland walking toward his vehicle while wearing no clothing. A homeowner told the officer he was woken up by a noise and yelling coming from his bathroom.

When the homeowner went to check on the sound, he saw Calland laying completely nude in his bathtub. When the homeowner said he was going to contact law enforcement, Calland crawled out of the home and started walking around a yard.

Calland admitted to being under the influence of a substance and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The temperature on the early morning of Dec. 19, 2020, was in the low 30s. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can set in within 10 minutes of exposure at that temperature. In addition, humans can suffer from hypothermia due to exposure to low temperatures for an extended period of time.

During court proceedings in Kosciusko Circuit Court, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine said Calland received a 1 1/2 year sentence on probation in Kosciusko Superior Court Two for residential entry.

Rovenstine noted the cases were Calland’s first felony offenses and asked the court to consider a local sentence.

Calland told Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed that the last two years were “not good” and elaborated on the treatment and counseling she’s done.

“I’m working to do better,” said Calland.

“You’re lucky you’re not dead and or hurt for the stuff you were doing,” said Judge Reed. “We all make mistakes but these are serious mistakes. Staying clean needs to be your number one priority. There is hope if you take the opportunity.”

For dealing in a controlled substance, Judge Reed sentenced Calland to three years in the Kosciusko County Jail. She also received a one-year jail sentence for theft. Both counts will be served concurrently, or at the same time. The final year of the three-year sentence was suspended on probation. Calland can also serve her executed sentence through the county’s work release program.

For meth possession, Calland received a one-year jail sentence, which was suspended on probation.

These two cases will be served consecutively to one another, as well as consecutively to the Kosciusko Superior Court Two residential entry case and a Whitley County methamphetamine possession case.

In total, including the Superior Two Case, Calland received a 5 1/2 year sentence, with two years executed and 3 1/2 years on probation.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Lisa Marie Klinge

WARSAW — A Warsaw woman will serve 15 years in prison after dealing drugs to an undercover officer.

Lisa Marie Klinge, 39, Warsaw, was charged with dealing methamphetamine with a prior conviction, a level 2 felony. Eleven additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Klinge was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, April 18.

Sometime in December 2020, the NET43 Drug Task Force made a controlled purchase of 4.7 grams of methamphetamine from Klinge. During a second incident in December 2020, NET43 made a controlled purchase of 8.9 grams of methamphetamine from Klinge.

Klinge was convicted of dealing methamphetamine in 2016 in Fulton County.

During court proceedings, Klinge told Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed that she’s applied for assistance through several organizations but that she has not been accepted to any due to her criminal background and active charges.

“I’m a proponent of rehab, but this is one of the worst cases I’ve seen,” said Judge Reed.

“Meth is a big problem in the community and this explains part of that problem,” said Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Brad Voelz.

For dealing methamphetamine with a prior conviction, Judge Reed sentenced Klinge to 15 years in the Indiana Department of Correction. This case will be served consecutively to three additional criminal cases. Klinge also admitted to a probation violation for a syringe possession case. In June 2020, Klinge received a one-year suspended sentence for syringe possession. A notice of probation violation was filed with the courts seven months after her sentencing. Judge Reed ordered Klinge serve the remaining time on her syringe possession case in DoC.

Klinge must pay $500 in restitution to NET43. She has 175 days of jail time credit from Kosciusko County and four days of credit from a Whitley County case.

Judge Reed also recommended Klinge for Recovery While Incarcerated during her prison sentence.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Kyle Steven Ousley

WARSAW — A Pierceton man will serve eight years in prison on two drug cases.

In the first case, Kyle Steven Ousley, 29, Pierceton, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. He was also charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 5 felony, in a second case. Three criminal charges, as well as an additional methamphetamine dealing case, were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Ousley was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, June 20.

On Sept. 23, 2020, a Pierceton Police officer was in the area of CR 250E and US 30 when he was informed by a NET43 unit about a vehicle failing to signal a lane change. The officer pulled the vehicle over and identified Ousley as a passenger.

According to court documents, a K9 unit at the scene alerted to illegal drugs in the vehicle. While searching the vehicle, officers found several small bags containing methamphetamine. The total weight of the methamphetamine was 18.1 grams.

In a Kosciusko County Jail call, the vehicle’s driver called Ousley about the incident. Ousley asked how they got caught with so much and said he didn’t realize they had a large amount of drugs on them.

On Oct. 8, 2020, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office detective sergeant was attempting to serve a warrant on Ousley at a residence. Ousley gave officers permission to search the property and he said there was meth in a safe under a workbench in a garage.

Officers found a total of 34.4 more grams of meth.

During court proceedings, Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon said Ousley has the ability to work and previously served in the National Guard. He requested the court structure Ousley’s sentence to help him “reach his potential and become a productive member of society.”

Ousley said two of his relatives recently passed away and that he used methamphetamine “to escape how I felt.”

“I can be a good person,” said Ousley. “I just need a chance.”

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Ousley to six years in the Indiana Department of Correction. Ousley also received a two-year sentence for methamphetamine possession. Both cases will be served consecutively to each other and also consecutively to a methamphetamine possession case out of Whitley County.

Ousley also has 235 days of jail time credit, plus good time credit as calculated. He was recommended for placement in DoC’s Recovery While Incarcerated program.

In total, Ousley received an eight-year DoC sentence.

“Using drugs is only a temporary escape,” said Judge Reed. “You put yourself through a mess. Take advantage of what opportunities are given to you.”

Staff Report

WARSAW — A South Bend man was sentenced to eight years in prison Monday, Sept. 26, in Kosciusko County Circuit Court.

Richard Larrison

Richard G. Larrison, 48, 1406 E. Fox St., South Bend, pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine, a level 4 felony.

In 2021, Larrison was arrested on drug charges after being caught with about 28 grams of methamphetamine in his vehicle during a traffic stop.

He was also convicted of methamphetamine possession in 2003 and controlled substance possession in 2009.

Larrison’s attorney, Austin Rovenstine, called three people to the stand to speak on Larrison’s behalf in court Monday.

Skyler Davidson, house manager at the Serenity House in Auburn, where Larrison is currently residing, spoke first.

Davidson told the court that Larrison has chosen to remain at Serenity House longer than required in order to continue working on his recovery.

“He’s done phenomenal. He’s done a complete 180 since coming to the house,” Davidson said. “He’s a good leader. He’s come a really long way.”

Serenity House, a transitional living home with a structured environment and programs, is designed to promote a spiritual transformation that will enable residents to lead a life free from alcohol or drug use.

Kenny Schoff, who currently serves as a house manager at the Serenity House in Warsaw, said he has known Larrison for approximately 20 years.

“He is on fire for recovery. He has gone above and beyond,” Schoff said. “He has made big changes. I believe he is going to continue down this path if given the chance.”

Larrison’s sister told the court that her brother had gone to a rehab facility in 2019 but was not successful at that time “because he was doing it for someone else.”

“This time he’s doing it for himself,” she said. “This is him doing this for him.”

Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Brad Voelz told Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed that he respects the recovery process and does not want to derail the good work Larrison has put in, but pointed out that recovery is a lifelong process and that “part of recovery is accepting responsibility, which includes accepting consequences.”

“I look at (Larrison’s) criminal history and I see violence … I see dishonesty … I see narcotics … and I see failed probation,” Voelz said. “We predicted that good people would come in and tell you good things about how he’s doing in recovery, but that does not erase the seriousness of his crimes.”

Larrison spoke in court Monday just before being sentenced.

“I have a very chaotic past,” Larrison admitted. “I was a mess. I was a mess when I was using.”

Larrison told Judge Reed about the steps he is taking to turn his life around. This includes attending eight to 10 meetings each week. Larrison is involved in multiple groups, including AA, NA, and Celebrate Recovery.

“It doesn’t erase the actions I’ve done … not at all,” Larrison said. “but it keeps me from doing that ever again.”

“The prosecutor is right,” Larrison added. “Recovery is a lifelong process. I was an addict in active addiction. Now I’m an addict in recovery.”

“I trust your change is genuine,” Reed told Larrison, “But you have to be held accountable for your actions.”

Reed said he could not look past the fact that Larrison was in possession of 28 grams of meth.

“This is not a pleasant task,” Reed said, “But I think we all know what I have to do.”

Larrison was sentenced to eight years at the Indiana Department of Corrections, with Reed recommending purposeful incarceration, a program designed to target inmates whose criminal behavior is tied to a substance abuse and addiction.

Under the purposeful incarceration initiative, an offender may be eligible for sentence modification upon completion of a state-provided addiction treatment program, Recovery While Incarcerated (RWI).

Two other cases were dismissed, pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

David M. Eppert

WARSAW — A Syracuse man will serve six years in prison after dealing drugs in an undercover drug bust.

David Michael Eppert, 44, 612 W. Boston St., Syracuse, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Two additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Eppert was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 5.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Eppert to six years in the Indiana Department of Correction. He has 141 days of jail time credit in the case and must pay $325 in restitution to the Warsaw Police Department. Reed recommended Eppert for placement in the Recovery While Incarcerated program during his sentence.

On Oct. 16, 2018, Warsaw’s Drug Task Force purchased 14.4 grams of methamphetamine from Eppert. The purchase was captured via audio and video surveillance.

The case was initially scheduled for sentencing in November 2019, but Eppert failed to appear at that time. A warrant for his arrest was served in July 2022.

At sentencing, Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon said Eppert has the intelligence to be successful and asked the court to take into consideration positive efforts Eppert has made in improving himself.

“I made bad choices and I’m ready to get this behind me,” said Eppert.

“With the circumstances, you’ve left me with no alternative,” said Reed.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Collin Scott Hazelton

WARSAW — A South Bend man will serve 17 1/2 years in prison after dealing over 50 grams of narcotics in an undercover drug deal.

Collin Scott Hazelton, 27, South Bend, was charged with dealing a narcotic drug, a level 2 felony; and possession of cocaine, a level 6 felony. Seven criminal charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Hazelton was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Aug. 14.

For dealing a narcotic drug, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Hazelton to 20 years at the Indiana Department of Correction, with 17 1/2 years executed and 2 1/2 years suspended on probation. He received time served for his criminal case involving cocaine possession.

Hazelton has 552 days, or about 1 1/2 years, of jail time credit, with good time credit as calculated. Reed also recommended Hazelton for Recovery While Incarcerated during his prison sentence.

At sentencing, Reed noted three letters of support submitted on Hazelton’s behalf.

Prosecutor Brad Voelz noted the significant danger dealing fentanyl poses to the community.

Defense Attorney Gregory Ridenour said Hazelton had accepted responsibility for his actions and was deeply remorseful. Several of Hazelton’s family members and friends also attended the sentencing. Ridenour said Hazelton was halfway toward receiving a college degree when his addiction interfered in that happening. Hazelton also currently serves as a trustee in the Kosciusko County Jail.

“My actions are why I am here today,” said Hazelton. “I want to change my life no matter the sentence I receive.”

Hazelton told Reed he was amenable to any type of rehabilitation or treatment.

“This was a significant crime that puts so many people at risk,” said Reed. “There needs to be serous consequences.”

Sometime in March 2022, the NET 43 Drug Task Force purchased 55 grams of fentanyl from Hazelton. According to court documents, two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal depending on a person’s body size, tolerance and past usage. The aggregate total amount of fentanyl dealt by Hazelton in the two transactions with NET 43 was in excess of 55 grams, or 55,000 milligrams.

On March 4, 2022, an Indiana State Police trooper pulled over a speeding vehicle driven by Hazelton. After a K9 unit alerted to drugs in the vehicle, officers found a container with cocaine residue on Hazelton’s person.

Related Article

South Bend Man, 26, Accused Of Selling Fentanyl

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

Donald Michael Chadwick Jr.

WARSAW — A recent Kosciusko County Jail Chemical Addiction Program graduate will serve a seven-year sentence locally.

Donald M. Chadwick Jr., 50, Warsaw, is charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; and possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony. An additional meth possession charge and a separate drug possession case were both dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Chadwick was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Oct. 30.

For dealing meth, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Chadwick to six years in the Kosciusko County Jail. The first four years can be served through work release, and the last two years can be served through either work release or community corrections. Chadwick also received a one-year KCJ sentence for meth possession, with the entirety of that sentence suspended on probation. Both cases will be served back-to-back.

Chadwick has 523 days, or about 1.4 years, of jail time credit.

In total, Chadwick received a seven-year sentence, with the first six years to be served through alternative sentencing programs and the last year suspended on probation.

At sentencing, Defense Attorney Austin Rovenstine said Chadwick had been a law-abiding citizen until these cases occurred. He said a personal loss in Chadwick’s family led to a downward spiral.

Chadwick said he was thankful for the opportunity to participate in JCAP, which he graduated from on Oct. 25.

“Good work so far but keep going,” said Reed.

On April 23, 2021, an officer with the NET 43 Drug Task Force pulled over a speeding vehicle, with the driver also failing to use a turn signal when switching lanes on US 30.

According to court documents, the vehicle’s driver was later identified as Chadwick. A K9 unit at the scene alerted to drugs in the vehicle and officers found 56.2 grams of meth, two iPhones and $1,218 in cash.

Chadwick admitted to dealing meth on April 22, 2021.

On April 21, 2022, a Warsaw Police officer saw a vehicle fail to signal a turn in the area of East CR 200N. The officer pulled the vehicle over and identified its driver as Chadwick. A K9 unit at the scene alerted to drugs in the vehicle.

Upon searching the vehicle, officers found 2.7 grams of meth.

Related Articles

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

John Clay Heeter

WARSAW — A Warsaw man will serve 15 years in prison for dealing drugs.

John Clay Heeter, 51, Warsaw, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony. Nine additional charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Heeter was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 4.

For dealing meth, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Heeter to 15 years in the Indiana Department of Correction. He has 90 days of jail time credit, plus good time credit as calculated. Reed also recommended Heeter for participation in Recovery While Incarcerated.

At sentencing, Heeter said the last crime he committed was in 2004 and requested leniency, acknowledging his mistakes.

Prosecutor Brad Voelz said he took great issue with Heeter dealing a significant amount of drugs for profit.

Defense Attorney Scott Reust described Heeter’s case as unique because of the large gap between Heeter’s last criminal activity and this case. He also said Heeter was fully cooperative with police during the incident.

“How many others did you put in harm’s way because of your actions?” asked Reed. “This behavior is totally unacceptable.”

On Aug. 31, an Indiana State Police trooper obtained a search warrant for Heeter’s home after receiving information about Heeter dealing a large amount of drugs from his residence.

Upon serving the warrant, officers found 123 grams of meth and $1,200 in US currency.

Heeter told law enforcement he dealt eight ounces of meth a week and had been doing so for eight months.

Related Article