WITZ NEWS ARCHIVES

SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT
May 08, 2008 - An Ireland Elementary School Bus was involved in a minor accident early this morning.
Bloomington City Police were dispatched to the intersection of SR 37 and Vernal Pike at 9:07AM when the school bus rearended the car in front.
Mike Hile, Assistant Superintendent of Greater Jasper Schools tells WITZ News that the car in front of the bus stopped abruptly as the traffic light turned yellow. The bus driver was unable to stop in time and rolled into the back of the vehicle.
Hile says it was very minor and no damage can be detected. Monroe County EMS checked all of the 5th grade students on the bus, who were on a field trip today.
Bloomington School Corporation provided a bus for the students to get to the childrens museum. Indiana State Law dictates the bus involved in the accident must be inspected for safety purposes.
Hile also says the students should make it back to Ireland on regular schedule, if not a few minutes late.


HUFFING ARREST
May 08, 2008 - Huntingburg Police were dispatched to the scene of a single vehicle accident around 10:30PM last night.
When officers arrived they found 18 year old Jason Ward of Huntingburg sitting behind the wheel of his Pontiac Grand Am.
Indvestigation revealed, the vehicle was travelling south in the 200 block of Sycamore Street. Ward struck a parked truck belonging to Lonzo Morrow, then continued south, past the dead end sign and stopped in an area of trees in the back yard of Tim Wire.
When officers approached Ward, they found that he was confused and disoriented. Ward was arrested and charged with inhaling toxic vapors, commonly known as huffing. Ward was also charged with operating while intoxicated.
He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


CHECK DECEPTION
May 08, 2008 - Indina State Trooper Brian Laroche served four counts of check deception to 34 year old Jennifer Cole of Huntingburg. Cole was already in the Dubois County Security Center when served the warrant.


LOCAL TROOPERS RECOGNIZED
May 08, 2008 - Last Monday, at an annual ceremony held in Indianapolis, two troopers from the Jasper State Police Post were among over 80 Indiana State Police employees recognized for outstanding service.
Trooper Brian Laroche received the Life Award for his outstanding efforts in DUI enforcement during 2007. Driving under the influence is a serious violation and a danger to all who operate vehicles on Hoosier highways. Trooper Laroche is an eight year veteran of the Indiana State Police and is currently assigned patrol duties in Dubois County with his K-9 partner Justice.
Master Trooper Gary Wier was selected as Jasper's Trooper of the District. Trooper Wier's all around enforcement efforts and outstanding overall performance for 2007 earned him the award. He is a 19 year veteran of the Indiana State Police. Master Trooper Wier is assigned patrol responsibilities in Daviess County.


INDOT MOWING
May 08, 2008 - The Indiana Department of Transportation announces state right of way mowing operations will soon begin in the Vincennes District.
INDOT mowing operations are designed to minimize costs and risk to highway workers while maintaining the vegetation of INDOT's roadways at a safe height for motorist visibility.
INDOT predominantly uses a three cycle process to mow state roadways, which includes all interstates, state road and US routes. That means each right of way will be mowed three times a year.
The first cycle is a limited mow in the Vincennes District and will be completed by Memorial Day.
The second cycle involves full width mowing in most areas and will begin in July.
The third cycle is another limited mow and is scheduled to start in September.
INDOT is also applying some innovative programs to reduce the need for mowing the states right of way. INDOT's Roadside Heritage Program is a first of its kind program to use wildflowers and native plants to landscape Indiana's roadsides.
The work schedule is subject to change in the event of inclement weather. For the latest news and information about INDOT, visit www.in.gov/indot


ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT
May 08, 2008 - As millions of Americans begin receiving their economic stimulus payments, the IRS released a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers, that people now are asking.
Stimulus payments started going out last week, and the initial round of payments will continue on a weekly basis through mid July. In all, nearly 130 million payments will go out this year. Last week, 7.7 million payments were direct deposited, and the first mass production of paper checks begins Thursday May 8.
The IRS reminded taxpayers the fastest way to get answers is to visit IRS.gov, which has payment schedules and other information.


PRIMARY ELECTION FINAL
May 07, 2008 - A heavy turnout during yesterdays Indiana primary election. 39.95% of registered voters voted in Dubois County, which is a very high number for a primary election.
In Dubois County, Hillary Clinton defeated Barack Obama 55 to 45% in the Democratic Presidential race. In Dubois County running for Governor, Jim Schellinger defeated Jill Long Thompson after falling early. Schellinger winning 51 to 49%. In the State Representative District 9 race was incumbent Baron Hill winning with 64%, coming in a distant second was John Bottorff with 25%. For County Council at large, three had to be voted in and they were Gregory Kendall with 29%, Bonnie Luebbehusen with 28%, and Martha Wehr with 27%. A close race the whole way. Noel Fleck fell short with 16% of the votes. For the Greater Jasper School Board in District 3. One would come out of this and it was Greg Eckerle with 45% of the votes. Coming in second was Kurt Lechner and Mark Schmidt had 26%.
In Perry County, Clinton defeated Barack Obama by nearly 1500 votes, for Governor in Perry County, Jim Schellinger won that county as well. Defeating Jill Long Thompson by 1400 votes.
In Spencer County, Hillary Clinton defeated Barack Obama by 900 votes in the run for the Democratic Presidential race. For Governor in Spencer County, Jim Schellinger edged out Jill Long Thompson by just 132 votes.
And that led to the state percentages...
For the Democratic Presidential race, Hillary Clinton won a close one, defeating Barack Obama 51 to 49%. Hillary Clinton winning the presidential primary for the state of Indiana. As for Barack Obama he defeated Hillary in the North Carolina primary 56 to 42%.
The race for Governor in the state of Indiana to see who will go up against Governor Mitch Daniels in November, Jill Long Thompson narrowly winning the Democratic Nomination for Governor defeating Jim Schellinger by fewer than 7,000 votes. That after Schellinger winning in Dubois, Spencer and Perry Counties. Thompson represented Allen County in Congress for five years and the county rewarded her with a 70% win that gave her the cushion she needed.


WOMAN TRAMPLED
May 07, 2008 - Tuesday evening, around 5:34PM, the Daviess County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call that a lady had been ran down by a team of horses at the Wilmer Raber residence in Montgomery.
Wilmer Raber was driving a team of horses planting a field across from his residence and had stopped to work on the planter. His wife, 49 year old Lovina Raber, had brought Wilmer out something to drink. One of the horses slipped out of its bridle and started trying to get loose from the planter causing the other horses to try to get loose. Wilmer tried to calm the horses by pulling on the reins while Lovina grabbed onto the harness. The horses took off with the planter still attached, knocking Lovina to the ground pulling the planter over the top of her causing lacerations to the right side of her head and to her lower right leg.
Lovina was transported to Daviess Community Hospital and then transported by Air Evac helicopter to the University of Louisville Hospital for additional treatment.


MULTI-COUNTY PURSUIT ENDS IN JASPER
May 07, 2008 - Early Tuesday morning, the Harrison County Sheriff's Department attempted to stop a 2000 silver Jeep Cherokee to question the driver about a burglary that occured in Floyd County. The driver, 33 year old Louis Newkirk Jr, of New Albany refused to stop and led on a pursuit on US 150. Officers later lost sight of Newkirk in Orange County and the pursuit was called off.
At approximately 2:39AM, Indiana State Trooper Trey Lytton was patrolling in the Haysville area when he spotted Newkirk traveling west on SR 56. Newkirk pulled into a driveway and when Lytton exited the car Newkirk sped away.
Again leading officers in a high speed pursuit, Newkirk traveled south on 231 where Dubois County and Jasper City Police joined the pursuit. Trooper Philip Hensley successfully deployed stop sticks at 30th and Newton but Newkirk continued South on Newton. Dubois County Sheriff's Department deployed stop sticks again at 13th and Newton. After the second, Newkirk drove off the roadway and through the yard of St. Joseph Church.
Refusing to surrender, Newkirk continued. At 7th and Newton, Newkirk drove southeast through the parking lot and between two buildings finally hitting a concrete bench on the courthouse square. Newkirk then fled on foot. Officers were able to taser Newkirk and finally surrendered.
Newkirk was charged with; resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, two counts of resisting law enforcement, two counts of criminal mischief, criminal recklessness, attempted battery on law enforcement, two counts of leaving the scene of a crash, and reckless driving. He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


PRIMARY
May 06, 2008 - While Secretary of State Todd Rokita says no election is perfect. He is confident Indiana will have a fair and accurate primary election. He says Indiana has 160,000 new registered voters for this election, which is close to the number of absentees who have already voted in the primary. Rokita expects the turnout for this election will be comparable to a general election. Increased voter turnout also increases the chance some precincts will still have voters lined up when the polls close at 6PM. Just because your in line at 6PM doesnt guarantee youll get to vote. Indiana law says you must be inside the so called "chute" that time. Before the polls open, poll workers at each location determine where the chute starts and stops, but state law says its 50 feet from the door where voting takes place.
Running for County Council are Noel Fleck, Gregory Kendall, Bonnie Luebbehusen, and Martha Wehr.
Running for the Greater Jasper School Board in District 3 are Greg Eckerle, Kurt Lechner and Mark Schmidt.
Absentee ballots received as of midnight for Dubois County are 1,298. Other counties, Crawford with 369, Daviess with 781, Gibson has 1,242, Harrison with 984, Knox county with 1,460, Lawrence with 1,638, Martin county has 355 absentee ballots received, Orange with 456, Perry county had 1,013 absentee ballots, Pike with 678, Posey 696, Spencer County 777, Vanderburgh county with 9,862, Warrick county with 2,858. And statewide 173,525 Absentee ballots received as of midnight last night.


STIMULUS PAYMENT
May 06, 2008 - Plans for your Economic Stimulus Payments?
People who use direct deposit will be among the first to receive the payments starting last week.
Going by the last two numbers of your social security number, payments already have been sent out for some going through next week.
Paper checks will go out May 16 for the last two digits 00-09. And will be sent out every week through July 11.


MAN HIT BY VEHICLE
May 06, 2008 - Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a hit and run accident between a four wheeler and a pickup which happened last Friday night near the town of Selvin, on Old Vincennes Road, in northeast Warrick County.
According to investigators, 52 year old John Bauer of Evansville, was returning to his camp at Yellowbanks Recreation Area from turkey hunting. Bauer, who is confined to a wheelchair, was traveling west on his four wheeler.
As he traveled west, he saw turkeys in a field. Noticing a vehicle behind him, he pulled over to the side of the road and stopped to watch the turkeys. A pickup truck suddenly crashed into the rear of Bauer's four wheeler throwing him into a ditch.
The driver got out and helped Bauer out of the ditch then said he was going for help, but never returned.
Bauer's injuries included blunt force trauma to the lower back. He was taken to Deaconess Hospital where he was released Saturday morning.
Indiana Conservation Officers are asking for the public's help in locating the pickup driver. He is described as a white male in his twenties, facial hair, heavy set, with long dark curly hair. The pickup may possibly be a dark colored 1987 GM pickup with front end damage.
Anyone having any information please contact ICO Trent Stinson at 812-789-9538.


BIRDSEYE MAN RUN OVER
May 05, 2008 - A 75 year old Birdseye man was pronounced dead at Memorial Hospital after being run over by his own truck in the Sacred Heart parking lot in Schnellville shortly after 10AM Sunday morning.
Basil Bromm had stopped in front of the church and was getting out of his truck when he failed to put his truck in park, and accidently put it in reverse. The truck then started down the drive and Bromm was pulled under the truck.


POSSESSION
May 05, 2008 - Last night, Trooper Justin Bean and Trooper Philip Hensley investigated possible narcotics activity at a Poplar Street residence in Birdseye. Troopers and Sheriff's Deputies gained consent to search the residence, in which they located marijuana and paraphernalia. 21 year old Brandon Kissel of Grantsburg was arrested for possession of paraphernalia and visiting a common nuisance. 18 year old Dustin Woolems of Grantsburg was also arrested for visiting a common nuisance. Two juveniles were arrested for maintaining a common nuisance, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. The juveniles were transported to the Knox County Juvenile Detention Center. While Kissel and Woolems were taken to the Dubois County Security Center.


MINOR CONSUMING
May 05, 2008 - Saturday shortly after 10PM, Huntingburg Police were called to a Chestnut street residence in reference to a noise complaint. When police arrived, three minors and two adults were present in the house, and alcohol was also present in front of the minors. Officers asked the renter of the home, 36 year old Jennifer Haddad, if there were minors in the residence several times and she continued to lie after officers observed several minors take off running through the house. All three minors were located, hiding in the home.
All three minors were tested and tested positive for alcohol consumption. Haddad was charged with two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, furnishing alcohol to a minor, obstruction of justice. Also Jodi Leinenbach was charged with illegal comsumption of alcohol by a minor. Both were taken to the Dubois County Security Center.
Both juveniles were charged with illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor and released to an adult.


CHILD MOLESTING ARREST
May 05, 2008 - A criminal investigation that began on February 20, 2007 has resulted in the arrest of 40 year old William Cortez Lopez of Jasper. Lopez has been charged with two counts of child molestation in the class A status, one count of child molestation in the class C status, attempted criminal conduct with a minor, child solicitation, battery on a minor, and intimidation.
On Saturday, the Jasper Police Department received an anonymous call on the whereabouts of Lopez and with the assistance of the Dubois County Sheriff's Department. Lopez was taken arrested and taken to the Dubois County Security Center where he is being held without bond.


ACCIDENT
May 05, 2008 - Jasper Police were called to a two vehicle accident Saturday morning at the intersection of 12th and Main.
Police say that 46 year old Brenda Binkley of Jasper was north on Main and 79 year old Romona Lindauer of Jasper was east on 12th. Accoring to Police, Lindauer had the right of way and entered the intersection. Binkley then entered the intersection as well. Both vehicle collided. No injuries to report in the 10:22AM crash. No citations were handed out.


WALT FERBER HONORED
May 05, 2008 - Walt Ferber, Sports Director of WITZ Radio was honored for the sportscast of the year by the Network Indiana statewide news and sports competition. Ferber was honored for a 15 minute report on Tim LaGrange leaving Jasper to become high school basketball coach at Jeffersonville. WITZ also placed second place in state play by play competition for last years sectional baseball game between Jasper and Vincennes. Ferber is teamed with Al Pillsbury.


ACCIDENT INJURES THREE
May 03, 2008 - An accident early this morning sends three people to the hospital.
Indiana State Police were called to SR 56 east of Hillman Road around 1:30 this morning after a vehicle left the roadway, rolled over and struck a mailbox.
The driver 20 year old Philip Asbury of West Baden reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. He complained of pain in his neck and back. Two passengers, 21 year old Jackie Groff Jr. of French Lick received a broken arm and 21 year old Ashley Carmicheal of Bloomington had pain in her right arm.
All three were taken to the Jasper Memorial Hosptial.


CRASH WITH OWI
May 03, 2008 - And just a few hours later, Indiana State Police were called back to SR 56, this time east of Dubois Crossroads.
The vehicle left the roadway and struck a guard rail and an enbankment.
Further investigation revealed. the driver, 24 year old Cole Harris was found to be intoxicated and had a prior conviction for OWI within the last five years. Harris was taken to the Dubois County Security Center.


MINOR ACCIDENT
May 03, 2008 - A Jasper man not paying attention results in a minor crash.
Yesterday afternoon 86 year old Maurice Mendel was driving his 1991 Oldsmobile north on Newton when traffic slowed, and rearended 40 year old Charles Baur of Holland.
No injuries to report from the 3:53PM accident. Jasper City Police cited Medel for following to closely to avoid a collision.
$1500 total damage was reported.



16 CHARGED FOR DEALING DRUGS
May 03, 2008 - Daviess County Sheriff Steven Cox, announced the execution of 16 arrest warrants. The charges resulted from a 34 month invesigation by the Daviess County Sheriff's Office and Drug Enforcement Administration Drug Task Force.
Three defendants were already in custody in the Daviess County Security Center on unrelated charges.
This investigation removed approximately $85,000 worth of methamphetamine, $1800 worth of prescriptions, and $1200 worth of marijuana from the streets of Daviess County that would have been sold in the area.
A 20 month investigation by the Daviess County Sheriff's Office, Cox says they have removed nearly 40 drug dealers from the streets of Daviess County.
Cox then went on to say, other drug dealing arrests will be occuring in Daviess County as this team continues to pool their resources and work jointly together.


16 CHARGED FOR DEALING DRUGS
May 03, 2008 - Daviess County Sheriff Steven Cox, announced the execution of 16 arrest warrants. The charges resulted from a 34 month invesigation by the Daviess County Sheriff's Office and Drug Enforcement Administration Drug Task Force.
Three defendants were already in custody in the Daviess County Security Center on unrelated charges.
This investigation removed approximately $85,000 worth of methamphetamine, $1800 worth of prescriptions, and $1200 worth of marijuana from the streets of Daviess County that would have been sold in the area.
A 20 month investigation by the Daviess County Sheriff's Office, Cox says they have removed nearly 40 drug dealers from the streets of Daviess County.
Cox then went on to say, other drug dealing arrests will be occuring in Daviess County as this team continues to pool their resources and work jointly together.


HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN CRAWFORD CO.
May 01, 2008 - Human remains have been found in Crawford County.
Last Monday, members of the Indiana State Police and the Crawford County Sheriff's Deparment discovered bones near Milltown in Crawford County. Upon locating the bones Indiana State Police Detectives and Crime Scene Investigators secured the scene until a team of forensic anthropologists could come to assist.
On Tuesday, a team of forensic anthropologists from Indianapolis came to Crawford County to assist investigators with the discovery. The forensic anthropologists verified that the bones were human remains.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Indiana State Police.


MOTORCYCLE CRASH
May 01, 2008 - Dubois County Sheriff's Deputies were called to CR 325E last night in reference to a motorcycle crash.
54 year old Jerrold Rodes of Jasper was on his 1988 Honda 600 motorcycle driving west on CR 325E approaching a sharp curve. Sun glare made seeing the curve difficult, Rodes locked the rear brake and lost control.
Rodes and his wife Joann, refused treatment after the 8PM turn over. Rodes was transported by personal vehicle to Memorial Hospital for treatment for his shoulder. Joann complained of pain to her head.
The motorcycle received an estimated $1,000 damage.


WARRANT
May 01, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Thomas Basham conducted a traffic stop on SR 37 near Indian Lake around 1AM this morning on 25 year old Ryan Wheatley of Rome.
Investigation revealed that Wheatley had a warrant out of Perry County for resisting law enforcement.
Wheatley was arrested and also charged with operating while intoxicated and transported to the Perry County Jail.


HILL ENDORSING OBAMA
May 01, 2008 - Indiana Congressman Baron Hill is endorsing Barack Obama for the Democratic Nomination for President. Hill's endorsement gives Obama the backing of another superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention.
Hill's District covers Southern Indiana.


LINCOLN CELEBRATION
April 30, 2008 - On Mothers Day, May 11, there will be a National Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration held at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Lincoln City.
Governor Mitch Daniels will speak at the event along with U.S. Representative Baron Hill and Keynote speaker Joan Flinspach, who is the president and CEO of the Lincoln Museum in Fort Wayne.
Admission is free though tickets must be reserved by calling 888-444-9252. Parking will be at Hertiage Hills High School. Music will start at 1PM CT with the program starting at 2PM CT at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Lincoln City Sunday May 11.


ON-GOING UNDERCOVER OP
April 30, 2008 - Over the last several days, six more people have been arrested on unrelated drug charges stemming from an Indiana State Police Undercover Operation.
All of this activity stems from the continuing criminal detail in the city of Austin. The latest arrested were...26 year old Alfie Collins charged with dealing a Schedule 2 controlled substance, 27 year old Robert Watts charged with dealing schedule two and three controlled substances, 31 year old Tracy Hanner charged with failure to appear, 24 year old Brandi Elliott with disorderly conduct, 33 year old Jill Bush for a Home Detention Violation, and 41 year old James Fox charged with failure to appear.
As of Tuesday, a total of 62 people have been arrested. 34 on drug charges, 25 arrest warrants, since the crackdown began in December.


COCAINE BUST
April 30, 2008 - An anonymous tip leads to cocaine bust in Scottsburg.
Monday evening around 7:30PM, detectives from the Indiana State Police Sellersburg Post arrested 30 year old John Sebastian. Detectives had received information from a tip that drugs were allegedly being dealt out of a residence on Hyland Street in Scottsburg.
When officers arrived, Sebastian was not home, but were able to wait until he returned to the home. When arriving, he was in possession of two ounces of cocaine.
Sebastian was taken to the Scott County Jail on charges of dealing cocaine and possession of cocaine with the intent to deliver.


NORD CEREMONY
April 29, 2008 - The Ferdiand Post Office is now officially known as the Staff Sgt. David L Nord Post Office.
Brandon Brosmer, The Ferdinand Postmaster, served as master of ceremonies Monday morning before a capacity crowd of more than 500 in the Ferdinand Community Center. On hand Monday were over 300 students from Forest Park Jr-Sr. High School, receiving an impromptu civics lesson.
Brosmer introduced the crowd to 9th district congressman Baron Hill, who pushed through the name change legislation.
Cerificates were handed out to Frank Begle, good friend of Nord and the Nord family. This includes Nord's widow Luann, his mother Betty, brother Dan, and the son he never knew, David II.
Postal officials will place a plaque commemorating the designation of the staff Sgt. David L Nord Post Office a the building in the near future.


JASPER SCHOOL BOARD
April 29, 2008 - At the Jasper School Board meeting Monday night, Board members approved a trip to Dublin Ireland in 2011.
The trip would be for any band members in High School at the time, which means current 7th and 8th graders could go on the trip when the time comes. The school is hoping the trip will consist of over 100 students. The school also mentioned that the band has been to long trips including Florida, Texas, Phoenix, but never over seas. They will be taking part in the internationally known St. Patricks Day Parade in Dublin, which means the students will miss four days of school during the trip. The school got the immediate approval, barring any international crisis between now and 2011.
Jasper High School Principal Gerald Roberts spoke to the board about the academic progress students have made in the last year.
Roberts told board members that Jasper High School students got an 83% in Language Arts on the I-STEP, which was a slight increase from last year. In math they received an 82%, another slight increase from last year.
Principal Roberts also mentioned to the board that he has 95 senior students on the honor roll and 88 who are seeking the Core 40 Diploma. He reminded everyone that to be in the Core 40 and academic honors they must take four years in Math, three in Science, and three in Language Arts and they must maintain a B or higher average in those classes.
Roberts presented a pair of interesting numbers to the board last night. There are 1,911 dual credit hours being earned at Oakland City University and 375 credit hours from Vincennes University. Roberts says that's fantastic for students to be able to do that because it not only helps the students but helps the parents in paying. According to Roberts, one student went to University of Evansville as a sophomore right out of high school, thanks to dual credit classes, saving their parents around $25,000.
Finally Roberts mentioned that hes got a good problem on his hands right now. There are 11 students that qualify for Valedictorian right now.


DOC EMPLOYEE ARRESTED
April 29, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested a Department of Corrections employee.
After an on-going investigation, Troopers from the Indiana State Police Methamphetamine Suppression Section arrested 47 year old Roy Dicus of Spencer on meth related charges late Sunday afternoon.
A search warrant of the home last Wednesday revealed evidence that Dicus was manufactoring methamphetamine in the home. Dicus was not home at the time when the search warrant was served. Dicus is employed by the Indiana Department of Correction as a Reception Diagnostic Center Correctional Officer.
Indiana State Police Methamphetamine Suppression Section Troopers dismantled and disposed of the drug operation. In addition to the active lab, officers found meth.
Dicus was charged with manufactoring and possession of meth and maintaining a common nuisance.


RECKLESS DRIVING
April 29, 2008 - After receiving multiple calls to 911 reporting reckless driving on U.S. 231, Indiana State Trooper Philip Hensley located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
Hensley stopped the 1995 Pontiac on 231 just south of Division Road.
Through the investigation, it was determined that 41 year old Phonda Klem of Huntingburg was under the influence of controlled substances.
Klem was arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated with a prior conviction and neglect of a dependent, as she had a young child in the vehicle with her.
She was taken to the Dubois County Security Center.



REAREND
April 29, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the intersection of 13th and Newton yesterday around 5PM in reference to a crash.
59 year old Constance Gordon of Louisville Kentucky was driving her 2003 Honda Accord south on Newton approaching the intersection of 13th. When coming to a stop at the intersection, 17 year old Lee Lechner of Jasper was unable to stop in time and rearended Gordon.
Lechner was cited for speeding too fast to aviod a collision. No injuries to report in the 5:08PM crash.
$3,000 total damage was reported.


STOLEN VEHICLES
April 28, 2008 - Two unrelated vehicle pursuits in Tell City land three people in jail Saturday morning.
According to Indiana State Police, at approximately 12:35AM CT Saturday morning, Trooper heath Carkuff attempted to stop a white 1988 Dodge Dakota to question the occupants about reported suspicious activity. When Trooper Carkuff activated his lights the driver refused to stop. The pusuit continued along Washington Street, before continuing behind the flood wall. Eventually the vehicle came to a stop and the occupants jumped out. Police caught up with the passenger, 18 year old Sarah Schneider of Tell City, but the driver got away.
Further investigation revealed, that both the license plate and vehicle were found to be stolen from South Carolina. Schneider was taken to Perry County Jail where she was charged with two counts of possession of stolen property.
Shortly after that, at around 1:14AM CT, a 1999 Chevy Z-71 pickup was reported stolen from the 900 block of 21 street in Tell City. Indiana State Trooper Thomas Basham saw a vehicle matching the description. When Basham activated his lights, the vehicle refused to stop. After stopping at 16th and Fulton Streets, the driver fled on foot and ran into a residence. Officers entered the residence and arrested 20 year old Paul King of Tell City. Officers then discovered that King was not the suspect and the vehicle he was driving was not stolen. King was arrested for resisting law enforcement and lodged in the Perry County Jail.
Around 4AM, Police received some information that the driver was now in a black 1994 Dodge Dakota, reported stolen from the Cannelton area. Thirty minutes later, authorities found the vehicle in Hawesville. The suspect fled on foot when he noticed an approaching Sheriff's Deputy. State Police officials eventually found the driver, 18 year old Christopher Wicker of Iva South Carolina at a Main Street residence just after 8AM. Wicker was taken to the Perry County Jail where he was charged with three counts of possession of stolen property, resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, and false informing. The investigation is continuing.


CRASH
April 28, 2008 - Indiana State Police were called to the intersection of U.S. 41 and CR 1025S in reference to a crash.
35 year old Shana Miller of Haubstadt was driving east on CR 1025S crossing U.S. 41. Miller failed to yield the right of way and struck 56 year old Barbara Trapp of Fort Branch, who was driving North on 41. Miller struck Trapp's vehicle in the front right corner causing the Trapp vehicle to roll over two times. Trapp's vehicle landed on its roof and came to a rest.
Local Fire Units and Paramedics pulled Trapp from her vehicle. She was transported to Deaconess Hospital for minor injuries.
Miller was not injured and was ticketed for failure to yield the right of way.
Both were wearing their seatbelts, which prevented serious injuries.



RECKLESS DRIVING
April 28, 2008 - Jasper City Police arrested a St. Anthony teen last night on a disdemeanor charge.
Officers observed 19 year old Cody Christensen driving recklessly in the area of 6th and Mill Streets. Christensen was later stopped around Arlington Court.
Christensen was charged with reckless driving and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


THEFT
April 26, 2008 - A Huntingburg woman was arrested on theft charges last night.
Elder Beerman contacted Jasper City Police last night at around 9:30PM advising them that an employee, 29 year old Lynette Willett had allegedly aided a customer to leave the store without paying for several items on April 15th.
Willett was arrested and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center where she is being held on one count of theft.


DAVIESS COUNTY ARRESTS
April 26, 2008 - Washington City Police made a few arrests last night.
21 year old Nathan Russell of Winslow was arrested and charged with two counts of failure to appear in court and his bond was set to $5,000.
26 year old Kyle Smith of Washington was arrested and charged with theft, criminal mischief, and public intoxications. His bond has not been set at this time.
Both were lodged in the Daviess County Jail.


WARRANT
April 26, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested 23 year old Ryan Lawalin late last night on an oustanding warrant from Perry County.
Lawalin was lodged in the Perry County Jail without incident.


BUEHLERS SOLD
April 25, 2008 - Buehler Foods has announced that they have signed a letter of intent to sell to Houchens Industries out of Bowling Green Kentucky.
The 22 stores in Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois owned by Buehler Foods will remain open and retain the Buehler name, and no layoffs are expected.
The decision to sell was based on the current food retail market. Buehler Foods company President Kris Buehler Massat stated in a news release "With the pressure in the market, it is hard to compete with national and international chains." Buehler Massat continued saying "A Buehler Foods Office will remain in Jasper and staff at the office will remain involved in the company "for a period of time"." Buehler Massat then went onto say "The associates of the company and their families will be provided long term oppurtunities, in a way that todays environment has prevented us from doing."
Buehler Foods was established in 1940 by Gabe and Marge Buehler. It changed hands in 2006 after the company was restructured following financial hardships. In May of 2005, Buehler Foods and its family of companies; Buehler LLC, Buehler of Carolina LLC and Buehler of Kentucky LLC all filed bankruptcy. The late 2004 purchase of 16 Winn-Dixie stores in Kentucky was a financial drain on Buehler Foods Inc and was blamed for the company filing for Chapter 11.
Houchens Industries Inc was established in Glasgow Kentucky in 1917 and is one of the largest 100% employee owned companies in the United States and currently operates businesses such as insurance, construction, trucking and property management.
The due diligence phase of the transition is currently underway, and pending its completion, the sale is expected to be completed in the next 60 days.


MURDER SENTENCE
April 25, 2008 - A murder sentence was handed down yesterday morning for a man who pleaded guilty in connection to the April 18, 2000 shooting of a Huntingburg man.
32 year old Oscar Alexander Guevarra pleaded guilty last month to the murder of a man first identified as 34 year old Custo Rios.
Guevarra was sentenced to 65 years in the Department of Corrections, that counting the 209 days already served. If released after his term, Guevarra will be deported back to Mexico, after living in the U.S. illegally for the past 12 years.
Guevarra, also known as Jose Hernandez was arrested in Maryland last September on weapon charges after police investigated a fight.
Guevarra is the third of four suspects to plead guilty in connection to the shooting.
The victim, whos true name is Benito Fausto Vazequez was killed by a single shotgun blast in front of his home. The victims brother, Paul Fasto, was in attendance at the court house to hear the sentence.
Two other men are in prison and the fourth, Juan Medezma, remains at large.


FIRE
April 25, 2008 - Jasper Fire Department was called to Ditto Sales and Service early yesterday morning on the report of a fire.
When fire fighters arrived, they found a dust collection system inside the building, which collects metal shavings, was in flames.
Fire Chief Kenny Hochgesang tells WITZ News that it took approximately thirty minutes to extinguish the fire on the 30x30 unit.
A total of 10-15 thousand dollars in damage was reported, as well as water damage to that portion of the building.
26 fire fighters using five trucks were on the scene for about an hour and twenty minutes. One fire fighter received minor injuries in the 8:02AM fire and was taken to Memorial Hospital for evaluation.


LEAVING THE SCENE
April 25, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the intersection of 15th and Greene Streets around 6:30AM yesterday morning on a report of leaving the scene of an accident.
Upon officers arrival, several pieces of plastic from the suspect vehicle were in the roadway next to a parked 2003 GMC owned by Brady Jarboe of Jasper.
Around 8:30AM, while on patrol, an officer observed a silver Olsmobile Alero with extensive damage to the right front. Further investigation revealed, the officer matched the pieces of plastic at the scene with the damage to the car, and were a match.
44 year old Tracy Gribben of Loogootee admitted to driving the car when the accident occured. She was cited for leaving the scene of an accident.
The Jarboe GMC received $3500 Damage while the Gribben Alero received $5000 damage.


BATTERY
April 25, 2008 - Huntingburg City Police were called to Oakridge Apartments around 5:30PM yesterday in reference to a battery dispute.
36 year old Anthony Welp of Jasper had fled the scene just prior to the officers arriving.
Investigation revealed, that 35 year old Travis Kendall of Huntingburg was struck in the mouth by Welp and then began arguing.
Dubois County Sheriff's Deputy stopped Welp in the WITZ Bottoms and took him into custody.
Welp was charged with battery and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


SHOPLIFTER
April 25, 2008 - Jasper City Police have arrested a shoplifter, this one at K-Mart.
Police officials were called to K-Mart last night around 5:15PM in reference to a shoplifter being detained.
When authorities arrived, store employees were holding 41 year old Darlene Lindsey of St. Meinrad. Lindsey was arrested for attempting to take some items without paying for them.
Lindsey was transported to the Dubois County Security Center, where she is being held on one count of theft.


GERMAN AMERICAN BANCORP
April 25, 2008 - German American Bancorp Inc reported yesterday record 1st quarter 2008 net income of $3,020,000, or $0.27 per share, an increase of $1,541,000, reported in the first quarter of 2007. This record level of quarterly earnings, represents the first time the company's quarterly earnings have exceeded the $3 million mark.
In comparison to the first quarter of last year, the company reported significantly enhanced performance within every income statement category.
Mark Schroeder, President and CEO of German American Bancorp stated "It is particularly gratifying that we have been able to genarate record earnings at a time when the banking industry in general, are experiencing significant earnings challenges.
The company also announced that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share which will be payable on 5-20-08 to shareholders of record as of 5-10-08.


LITTLE GIRL CUT
April 23, 2008 - Daviess County Sheriff's Office responded to a 911 call around 5:34PM yesterday advising someone had been badly cut in the neck area.
18 month old Amanda Wittmer, her brother Jeremiah, and her 6 year old cousin Marlissa were riding a pony cart in the yard and being pulled by her 9 year old sister Bethany when the wheel of the cart got tangled in a fence causing Bethany to loose her grip and the cart to tip. Amanda was holding a glass of water and when she fell, the glass broke and she landed on the broken glass causing a laceration on the right side of her neck.
Amanda was transported to Daviess Community Hospital, then taken by helicopter to Riley Childrens Hospital in Indianapolis.


CHILD MOLESTING
April 23, 2008 - A Dubois County man was arrested yesterday after molesting a little girl several years ago.
42 year old Bryan Cowan of Huntingburg was arrested by Indiana State Police without incident after allegedly molesting a Dubois County girl.
During their investigation, Police revealed taht Cowan molested the girl on several occasions during 2004 and 2005. The little girl was 11 and 12 years old at the time she was molested. The alleged incidents occured at Cowan's residence when he lived in Petersburg.
Cowan was charged with child molesting and was taken to the Pike County Jail on $100,000 bond.


THEFT
April 23, 2008 - Dubois County Sheriff's Department had a call last night on a break in.
Curt Breitwieser od Dubois reported that his residence had been broken into.
There was a small amount of cash and a playstation and games were also taken. There were two younger males that had been seen in the area by neighbors and the victims son. Those males thought to be between the ages of 14 and 17. They were described as both having dark brown or black hair. One male had a red shirt on at the time. The other was carrying a back pack. Those suspects may also be involved in the two vehicles that had items taken out of at the Northeast Dubois High School.
Anyone with information on these incidents are asked to call the sheriff's department.


CHILD HIT
April 23, 2008 - Jasper City Police responded to K-Mart yesterday after a call of a child being trapped under a vehicle.
89 year old Jerome Klein of Jasper had backed out of his parking space and at the the same time a family was walking across the now empty parking space. Klein then proceeded to drive forward, but failed to correct his path of travel causing his vehicle to travel back through the parking space. Klein became confused and hit the gas instead of the brake causing his vehicle to strike 4 year old Demiah Bottorff of Jasper.
After striking the child, Klein's 2002 Ford Taurus then struck the drivers side rear fender of a Chevy Trailblazer owned by Christine Brockman. Klein's vehicle continued forward over a concrete parking slab, sideswiped a concrete post, and then struck a 1999 Chevy Lumina owned by Carol Rasche before coming to a rest.
Bottorff was pronounced dead a short time later.
Klein was transported to Memorial Hospital for a blood test which is required when a driver causes serious bodily harm or death.
No charges have been filed at this time but the investigation is on-going.


DRUNK DRIVER
April 23, 2008 - Jasper City Police took a drunk driver off the road early this morning.
38 year old Carl Parks Jr. of Jasper was pulled over for driving left of center around the 200 block of west 4th street around 1:30AM this morning.
Further investigation revealed, Parks was indeed intoxicated and tested .20% on the breathalyzer, two and a half times the legal limit.
Parks was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and driving while suspended. Parks was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


STATE ROAD 64 CLOSING
April 23, 2008 - The Indiana Department of Transportation is announcing that it will be closing SR 64 in Gibson County between US 41 and SR 57. The closure will take place for a resurfacing and pipe replacement contract that was awarded during the February 29th letting. The $1.9 million dollar contract was awarded to Gohmann Asphalt and Construction of Clarksville.
The closure will begin on Wednesday April 30th and will reopen to through traffic June 9th. Local traffic will have access to the point of closure, through traffic will not be allowed. Residents along the corridor will have access to their driveway at all times during construction. There are thirteen pipes to be replaced under SR 64 and four at CR intersections. It is estimated that each pipe replacement will last three days. The western most point of closure will be between Top Hat Road and CR 150S. The eastern most point of closure will be at CR 1050E. SR 64 will not be closed in the cities of Princeton or Oakland City. The official detour will re-route motorists using US 41, SR 168 and SR 57.
INDOT encourages motorists to be aware of construction in the area and to proceed with caution while traveling Indiana roadways.


ARRESTS IN CHILD HIT AND RUN
April 22, 2008 - Two people have been arrested in connection to a hit and run that has left a little boy in the hospital.
Indiana State Police initiated an investigation after 5 year old Codie Pusey of Carlisle was struck by a car April 8th while he and other children were playing near the road on CR 1125S just west of CR 350W in Sullivan County. Little Codie was rushed to Sullivan County Community Hospital where he was stabilized and later airlifted to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.
Early Sunday morning, State Police received a tip that the vehicle that struck Pusey was parked behind the fire station in Lawrenceville Illinois. Lawrenceville Police responded and located the 1995 Red Neon with front end damage. The vehicle was taken to the State Police Post in Evansville where it was examined.
Further investigation revealed, 29 year old Kelly Allen of Carlisle was driving the vehicle at the time and 37 year old Roger Shoulders Jr of Lawrenceville was in the front passenger seat.
After obtaining arrest warrants, Marion Police located Allen and Shoulders at a motel in Marion Illinois. They were both arrested without incident and taken to the Williamson County Jail.
Allen was charged with failure to stop after a crash, criminal recklessness, and driving while suspended. She is being held on $13,000 cash bond. Shoulders was charged with assisting a criminal and is being held on $5,000 cash bond.
Codie Pusey is still being treated for his injuries at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.


CRASH INJURES TWO
April 22, 2008 - An early morning crash involving a car and a pickup truck on SR 37 sent two people to the hospital and shut down 37 for thirty minutes.
Preliminary investigation by Indiana State Trooper Doug Hutchinson revealed that at 7:55AM, a 2000 Ford Pickup driven by 65 year old Marcia Kruse of Bedford was north on 37 approaching the Old SR 37 intersection. According to witness statements, the traffic light for northbound SR 37 traffic had turned red. For reasons not known, Kruse drove through the red light, striking a westbound Old SR 37 1994 Mercury driven by 26 year old Andrea Dalton of Bloomington. Trooper Hutchinson says the heavy early morning fog was a contributing factor to the crash.
Both Kruse and Dalton were taken to Dunn Memorial Hospital for complaints of pain.
No citations were handed out in the early Monday morning crash.


EARTHQUAKE #3
April 22, 2008 - A third earthquake has rumbled through part of the midwest early yesterday morning.
The third earthquake since Friday morning reported at 1:38AM ET.
According to the Geologic Survey, the quake registered at 4.5 on the Richter Scale before later being changed to a 4.0.
Again the third quake near the Bellmont Illinois area, just like the previous two that occured Friday morning and afternoon.
The first quake registering at 5.2 coming through the area at 5:38AM Friday morning. The second quake at around 11:15AM registered at 4.5.
Some sources have reported people in the midwest could hear after shocks for the next week or two.


DOMESTIC BATTERY
April 21, 2008 - A Huntingburg man is in jail after battery charges Saturday morning.
29 year old Janet Dubon of Huntingburg had contacted Huntingburg Police and reported that she had been battered.
After asking her boyfriend to leave, 22 year old Alis Andres Munuz-Aguiler, broke a beer bottle on the kitchen table near Dubon's ten month old baby. Aguiler then grabbed Dubon by the throat and began fighting. Two of Dubon's friends that were present, helped get Aguiler off of her. He then went to grab another beer bottle and tried to break it. When unsuccessful, he grabbed a knife and was waving it around at everybody.
Aguiler attempted to leave in the Dubon car but hit a parked vehicle in the parking lot.
Dubon had marks on her ears and arms but refused treatment.
Agulier was arrested and charged with domestic battery and intimidation and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


CRASH
April 21, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the intersection of 15th and St. Charles shortly before noon Saturday in reference to a crash.
54 year old Eileen Marks of Jasper was driving her 1999 Chevy Lumina west on 15th and stopped at the intersection of St. Charles.
38 year old Jaimie Collignon was driving north on St. Charles approaching the intersection of 15th when she says she did not see the stop sign and the two collided.
Marks had a laceration to the head but refused treatment while Collignon was cited for disregarding a stop sign.
Total damage reported at $9,000.


CRASH #2
April 21, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the 3700 block of Newton Street at 9:45PM Saturday in reference to a crash.
27 year old Heather Brown of Jasper was driving her 2001 Dodge Stratus north on Newton in front of Ruby Tuesday's while 20 year old William Garland of Winslow was driving his 2003 Toyota Tacoma west in Northridge Shopping Center. Garland failed to see Baker, pulled into the intersection and was struck.
No injuries to report in the Saturday night collison. Garland was cited for failure to yield the right of way while Baker was cited for a child restraint violation.
$3500 total damage was reported.


THEFT
April 21, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Brent Hoover was notified at around 6PM last night that a purse had been taken from an unlocked vehicle at St. Meinrad Arch Abby. Bette R'Del of Newburgh says between 3-4:30PM Sunday her grey hand bag was taken from her vehicle.
The investigation is on going. Anyone with any information please contact Indiana State Police at the Jasper Post.


HTV
April 21, 2008 - Late last night Indiana State Police conducted a traffic stop on 27 year old Mark Sanchez of Cannelton.
Sanchez was being pulled over for a normal traffic violation on Taylor Street near 7th in Cannelton.
Upon further investigation, Sanchez was found to be a Habitual Traffic Violator for Life and also was found to be intoxicated at the time.
Sanchez was lodged in the Perry County Jail without incident.


LITTLE GIRL SHOT
April 21, 2008 - Saturday night at around 7:13PM, the Daviess County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call from Chris Riggle of Washington who advised that his 13 year old daughter had been shot.
The victim, 13 year old Elizabeth Riggle and her 15 year old brother Christopher Riggle were target practicing and the incident is still under investigation by the Daviess County Sherrif's office.
Southwest ambulance, Washington Township Fire Department personnel arrived and transported Riggle to Daviess Community Hospital where she was transported by air to Deaconess Hospital in Evansville.
On Sunday, Elizabeth Riggle died as a result of her wound. Vanderburgh County Coroner Office will be conducting an autopsy.


KENTUCKY RAPE
April 19, 2008 - A Louisville Kentucky man was arrested by Indiana State Police yesterday on sexual charges.
Since January the Harrison County Division of Family and Children has received two seperate complaints on 25 year old Ben Harrison. One coming from a 15 year old female alleging Harrison raped her. And a 12 year old alleging Harrison sexually molesting her.
After the complaints were filed, Detective Bill Wibbels was notified and immediately began his investigation. As a result of the investigation, an arrest warrant was issued out of Harrison County for Harrison's arrest.
Harrison was arrested and charged with rape and sexual misconduct with a minor and child molesting.
Harrison was arrested at his place of work and taken to the Harrison County jail without incident.


FIRE
April 19, 2008 - St. Anthony Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire at around 3:02PM yesterday afternoon.
The Chris Taylor residence located on highway 162 just north of Bretzville Junction was found to be in flames on the NE corner of the home.
Officials say the fire started in the front bedroom. But the cause is undetermined at this time. The Fire Marshall will be on the scene Monday morning to help determine the cause of the fire.
No one was home at the time of the blaze. There was heat and smoke damage throughout the home and also water damage in the NE corner.
No injuries to report. There were 21 men and three trucks on the scene for about an hour and a half.
Ferdinand Fire Department assisted at the scene.


TOOLS STOLEN
April 19, 2008 - Jasper City Dispatch received a call last night around 5:30PM from an individual who witnessed a man removing items from a pick up truck and putting them into his car while in the wal mart parking lot.
When noticed, the man left quickly, leaving the truck doors open. A description of the run-away vehicle closely matched a vehicle involved in thefts from other pickup trucks in the area in the past few weeks.
Officers later observed the vehicle going north on US 231. When officers conducted a traffic stop, 43 year old Kevin Baker of French Lick was found to be driving while suspended. Officers also observed numerous tools and power equipment in the vehicle. The victim in the theft in the wal mart parking lot, was able to identify the items that belonged to him.
The vehicle was brought to Jasper Police Department where another victim was able to identify some of his items. Police officials also identified items stolen from Huntingburg Machine Works trucks in Paoli last week.
Anyone with more information is urged to call Jasper City Police at 482-2255.


STOLEN VEHICLES
April 19, 2008 - A light tan dark tan 1984 Ford F-150 was stolen sometime between 2:30-6am yesterday morning.
The truck has "In God We Trust" license plates and a bug guard with the words " Key Farms" written on it. The vehicle was taken from the residence in Marengo.

Julie Lents reported yesterday that she was on her way to a junk yard to have her vehicle worked on and it broke down. Lents told officials she left the vehicle in a private driveway for two or three days and when she came back to get the vehicle, it was gone. The theft is to of happened sometime between Monday and Friday.
The vehicle stolen was a Red 1991 Ford Tempo with no license plates.
Anyone with information concerning either one of these thefts is urged to contact State Police at 1-800-742-7475.


DRUGS
April 19, 2008 - Huntingburg Police arrested a woman on drug charges early this morning.
Police officials pulled over 37 year old Shawna Morales of Huntingburg for failure to use her head lights. Officers conducted the traffic stop on E 5th Street.
When the officer approached the vehicle, the officer conducted a strong odor of alcohol coming from the driver. Morales was then taken to the police station where she was tested. Morales tested .25%, over three times the legal limit. Morales was also found to be in possession of marijuana and rolling papers.
Morales was charged with OWI, possession of marijuana, and possession of paraphernalia. She was also cited for failure to use head lights.
Morales was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.



WARRANT
April 19, 2008 - Indiana State Police issued a warrant for a Paoli man early yesterday.
35 year old Michael Brown Jr. was arrested on a warrant out of Orange County for dealing meth, possession of meth, and possession of marijuana.
Brown was lodged in the Orange County Jail without incident.


OWI
April 19, 2008 - Indiana State Police took a drunk driver off the road early this morning.
State Police pulled over 48 year old Brian Zoll of Evanston for a routine traffic violation on SR 66 in Troy.
Upon further investigation, Zoll was found to be intoxicate and also had a prior OWI conviction within the last five years.
Zoll was arrested for OWI and lodged in the Perry County Jail without incident.


EARTHQUAKE
April 18, 2008 - Tri-State residents along with most of the midwest was shaken awake this morning by a potent earthquake.
Registering at a 5.4 magnitude on the Rickter scale, now revised to 5.2 by the U.S. Geologic survey, the earthquake was reported at 5:38AM this morning. The studios of WITZ/WQKZ were literally shaken for approximately thirty to forty seconds, with calls received from residents throughout Dubois County, and ranging from Vincennes to Owensboro. Effects of the quake were also reported in Carmel, Bloomington and Richmond Indiana.
The epicenter of the earthquake has been placed along CR 600E near Lancaster and Friendsville Illinois, which are in south-central Wabash County, less than ten miles from the Indiana State line. Minimal damage has been reported thus far in Illinois and Indiana. Damages have been limited to pictures falling off walls and items shifting on dressers and other furniture.
Several communities in Illinois and Southwest Indiana have also experienced aftershocks. Impact of this 5.2 scale earthquake has reportedly been felt across seven states, from missouri all the way to West Virginia. This region is part of the New Madrid, Mt. Carmel and St. Lawrence faultline sector.


ATV RUN
April 18, 2008 - Late last night Indiana State Trooper Jarrod Lents observed a yellow honda atv four wheeler eastbound on SR 550 in the Hindost area.
Lents tried to initiate a traffic stop on the atv but the driver failed to stop, leading on a 12-mile pursuit through a rural area in Martin County.
The driver later ditched the four wheeler and fled on foot into a wooded area.
The investigation is on-going.


TRESPASSING
April 18, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to a 26th street residence early this morning in reference to a disturbance.
21 year old Edwin Quintanilla of Jasper was warned previously by law enforcement not to return to that residence after pounding on the door and windows.
Quintanilla was arrested and charged with trespassing and was also found to be intoxicated as well.
He is currently being held in the Dubois County Security Center.


SHOPLIFTER
April 18, 2008 - Yet another shoplifter in the area. This time at the local K-Mart.
Jasper City Police were called to K-Mart around 7:25PM last night to a shoplifter being detained.
18 year old Matthew Keller of Ferdinand was trying to leave the store without paying for a bottle of cologne valued at $27.99.
Keller was transported to the Dubois County Security Center.


MINOR CONSUMING
April 17, 2008 - Last night at around 11:15pm a Huntingburg officer arrived at the 200 block of north Van Buren to investigate a suspicious vehicle.
A tip received by the officers indicated someone in the vehicle was vomiting. When the officer pulled up, he noticed an empty beer inside the vehicle. The suspicious vehicle was found to be visiting people at a residence. The officer noticed two people standing outside the residence.
Upon further investigation, the officer was led into the residence where he noticed several alcoholic beverages all over the apartment. Several people in the apartment did not appear to be over the age of 21. Once the officer conducted a search, authorities found a juvenile hiding in the shower and two other people fled on foot.
Several at the scene were charged with minor consuming including 18 year old Natasha Fromme whos BAC was .08%, also two juveniles.
21 year old Zachery Hamilton who was shortly apprehended was also charged. He was charged with three counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, which is a Class C Felony since two of the juveniles were under 18 and Hamilton was also found to be on probation at the time of the incident.
The juveniles were released to their parents. While Fromme and Hamilton were transported to the Dubois County Security Center.


OWI
April 17, 2008 - Jasper City Police arrested a Jasper man early this morning on alcohol charges.
22 year old Daine Goolsby was pulled over at 11th and Jackson Streets after disregarding stop signs at 13th and Mill and 13th and Jackson. Also driving onto the curb on 11th street.
Goolsby was found to be intoxicated. Goolsby tested .20%, two and a half times the legal limit.
Goolsby was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


ESCAPEES CAPTURED
April 16, 2008 - Two escapees from the Branchville Correctional Facility have been captured.
20 year old Conan Helsley and 45 year old Kent Day have been on the run since April 4th.
Yesterday around 6:45PM, Warrick County Sherrif's Department received information that Helsley was near the area of Ryan's Hardware in Newburgh. When officers were not able to locate him. They drove to the local Schnucks parking lot on Bell Oaks Drive. While in the grocery store parking lot, an officer observed Helsley by a payphone. Before the deputy coult get a closer look, Helsley jumped into a white 1999 Pontiac and drove eastbound on Bell Oaks Drive at a high rate of speed. Deputies lost site of the vehicle near SR 261. Minutes later Indiana State Trooper Matt Lockridge saw the Pontiac traveling near ST 61 in access of 100mph. Stop sticks were deployed but Helsley was able to aviod them and continued south on SR 61.
As Helsley was approaching Darlington Road he noticed a Warrick County Deputy attempting to deploy another set of stop sticks. Helsley then left the roadway and struck a Ford Pickup that was attempting to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles.
Both vehicles came to a rest after the collision on the south side of SR 66. When officers approached Helsley's vehicle they quickly noticed Day was also in the vehicle. The driver of the pickup 59 year old William Hastie of Maceo Kentucky was not injured.
Helsley and Day were arrested without incident. Both vehicles were totalled in the crash. The pontiac Helsley was driving was found to be stolen from the Corydon Kentucky area. Helsley and Day were taken to the Warrick County Jail but later were transferred to the Indiana Department of Corrections.
Helsley was originally doing time for burglary and robbery while Day was serving a 60 year sentence for murder. Both are now facing many additional charges.


DRUGS FOUND
April 16, 2008 - Detective Christopher Cecil was traveling east on I-64 yesterday shortly after 2PM when a brown chevy car passed him at a high rate of speed.
Cecil informed other units in the area of the vehicle. Approximately twenty minutes later, Trooper Brian La Roche located the speeding vehicle and conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of CR 650E and Duff Road.
During the course of the stop, Trooper La Roche walked his K-9, Justice, around the vehicle. According to La Roche, Justice's reaction to the vehicle indicated the presence of drugs.
The officer later found marijuana in the possession of the passenger, 22 year old John Bickrest IV. Bickrest was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


FENDER BENDER
April 16, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the 1300 block of Newton Street yesterday evening in reference to a crash.
48 year old Martha Collier of French Lick was northbound on Newton Street in her 2000 Chevy when she stopped for stopped traffic. 18 year old Juan Mejia of Huntingburg was in his 1996 Chevy traveling north as well on Newton when he failed to see the stopped traffic and rearended Collier.
No injuries to report in the 4:48PM crash. Total damage to both vehicles estimated at $5,000. No citations were handed out.


NO INSURANCE AND POSSESSION
April 16, 2008 - Jasper City Police conducted a routine traffic stop early this morning that resulted in a Washington man arrest.
40 year old Charles Jones was pulled over on SR 56 just west of Rolling Ridge Road for a traffic violation. Jones was then found to have no insurance and also found to be in possession of a controlled substance.
Jones was arrested and charged with no insurance and possession of a schedule two controlled substance. He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


WARRANT
April 16, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Josh Livingston arrived at a Wilbur Street residence in Paoli for an outstanding warrant.
53 year old Paul Brackett was arrested last night at his residence for an outstanding warrant in Orange County for battery and failure to appear.
Brackett was taken to the Orange County Jail.


WARRANT #2
April 16, 2008 - Early yesterday morning Indiana State Trooper Scott Miller served a warrant for failure to appear issued out of Dubois County on 24 year old Shelly Schnarr of Washington.
Schnarr was already in jail for unrelated charges in Daviess County.


U-TURN CRASH
April 15, 2008 - A Jasper man trying to make a U-turn yesterday ends in a crash.
25 year old Jonathan Watkins of Jasper was driving his 2006 Ford Expedition west on CR 1100S and attempted to make a u-turn at CR 200W.
Indiana State Police say Watkins failed to see 48 year old Leslie Hunt of Tennyson behind him when trying to make the u-turn. Watkins then hit the left side of Hunt's Ford Ranger and both vehicles left the roadway and hit a utility pole.
Watkins was not injured and was wearing his seatbelt, which prevented injuries. Hunt did not have his seatbelt on and complained of chest pain and was taken to Memorial Hospital.
Hunt's Ford Ranger was totalled in the 4:55PM crash while Watkin's Expedition sustained $10,000 in damage. No citations were handed out.


SATURATION PATROL
April 15, 2008 - Saturday night, Indiana State Police conducted a saturation patrol targeting drunk drivers in Gibson County. During a six hour period, troopers arrested two drunk drivers, one drug related arrest, issued twenty traffic tickets, and twenty-two warnings.
During the saturation patrol, An Indiana State Trooper attempted to stop a red 2001 Chevy Impala on SR 168 for an equipment violation. The driver failed to stop when the trooper activated his emergency lights. The driver 24 year old Jeremy Overton of Princeton was arrested after he finally stopped his vehicle at US 41. Overton was arrested for resisting law enforcement, possession of hypodermic needles and for operating a vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance.
Indiana State Police are committed to traffic safety and will continue to conduct saturation patrols to apprehend intoxicated drivers and to deter others from drinking and driving.


DRUG ARRESTS
April 15, 2008 - Over the last several days, nine people have been arrested by troopers and other officers on unrelated drug charges stemming from an Indiana State Police Undercover Operation and a continuing criminal detail in and around the city of Austin.
32 year old Jason Arbuckle of Lexington was arrested and charged with dealing methamphetamine.
30 year old Joshua Brown of Seymour was charged with dealing cocaine and marijuana.
43 year old Eddie Campbell of Austin was charged with conspiracy to deal cocaine, aiding in dealing cocaine and dealing cocaine.
30 year old Joseph Groenenboom of Austin was arrested and charged with dealing cocaine.
31 year old Balbina Hernandez of Austin was charged with dealing methamphetamine.
31 year old Victoria Jorgensen of Scottsburg was charged with possession of marijuana.
23 year old Heidi McIntosh of Austin was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana.
21 year old Morgan Richey of Scottsburg was charged with two counts of dealing methamphetamine.
36 year old Jeffrey West of Austin was charged with dealing methamphetamine.
All were lodged in the Scott County Jail.


DEPUTY CRASH
April 15, 2008 - Indiana State Police responded to a two vehicle crash last night on US 31 at the intersection of CR 300E involving a Bartholomew County Deputy.
Preliminary investigation revealed that 23 year old Deputy William Kinman Jr. of Columbus was eastbound on CR 300E in his patrol car approaching 31. After stopping at the intersection, Kinman proceeded to pull across 31 and drove into the path of a southbound chevy lumina driven by 38 year old Brian Capps of Seymour. The impact of the crash sent the Lumina into a ditch on the east side of the roadway.
Capps and his passenger 37 year old Mark Beeman of Columbus complained of shoulder pain. Beeman also had minor cuts on his face. Kinman also complained of shoulder pain. All three occupants were wearing their seatbelts and officials say in which prevented potentially life threatening injuries.
Both vehicles were total losses in the 8:22PM crash.


WARRANT
April 15, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Charles Pirtle pulled over 30 year old Roger Grant of Grantburg for a rountine traffic violation early this morning at the intersection of SR 64 and 66 in Milltown.
During the course of the stop, it was noted that Grant had a warrant out of Harrison County for failure to appear for driving while suspended.
Grant was taken to Harrison County Jail without incident.


MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS
April 15, 2008 - The warm weather of spring brings increased motorcycle traffic with Hoosiers riding for recreation and transportation. Each year nationwide, motorcycle riders are involved in thousands of crashes resulting in disabling injuries and death. The Indiana State Police would like to offer these safe driving tips so that everyone can share Indiana roads safely.
Tips for passenger vehicles:
Watch attentively for motorcycles. Check blind spots before switching lanes and look twice at intersections before you turn or pull out into traffic.
Be cautious when turning left. This is when a majority of crashes between vehicles and motorcycles occur.
Share the road. Remember, motorcyclists are entitled to operate in a full lane.
Tips for motorcycle riders:
Wear protective equipment and clothing, especially a helmet with face shield.
Make yourself visible by wearing bright clothing, using reflective tape. Always use turn signals when switching lanes and turning.
Motorcycles are harder to see than other vehicles. Many crashes occur because other motorists do not notice the motorcycle. All motorists should be aware taht motorcycles are on the road and take the time for a second look before pulling into an intersection or making a turn. It only takes a second to save a life.


DI FINAL
April 15, 2008 - Six local teams that participated Saturday in the Destination Imagi-Nation state final get to set a course for the ultimate destination.
Thirteen local teams participated as finalists over the weekend at Noblesville High School.
Two of this area's advancing teams are state champions, two are runners-up, and two are third place finishers.
Two Holy Family teams, and independent squad and one team each from Forest Park High School, Precious Blood School, and Chrisney Elementary have qualified for the creative problem-solving competition's international final next month.


TAX DEADLINE
April 15, 2008 - Dubois County Treasurer, Bonnie Luebbehusen, would like to inform the taxpayers of Dubois County that the will be a delay in sending out the property tax statements this year. Because the state is still determining the counties tax rate and they have not received the necessary information from them to calculate property taxes, the first installment due date will be sometime in July. They will keep the taxpayers informed as to when the exact due date will be set.


TAXES!!!
April 15, 2008 - A reminder that today (April 15) is the last day to file your taxes!
You need to make it to a post office by 4:30PM today to get those taxes in the mail.


OWI
April 14, 2008 - Ferdinand Police also took a drunk driver off the road early Sunday morning.
Police observed a vehicle driving south on SR 162, then make a right turn onto 9th Street without signaling. Authorities then conducted a traffic stop and when approaching the vehicle it was found the driver 44 year old William Carney of Loogootee was intoxicated.
Carney tested .14%, nearly twice the legal limit. Carney was charged with OWI along with failure to signal and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


DUI
April 14, 2008 - Jasper City Police pulled over a speeding vehicle on Wernsing Road early Sunday morning.
Police pulled over 31 year old Parish Peachee of Lebanon for going 41mph in a 25mph zone. Upon further investigation, Peachee was found to be intoxicated. Peachee tested .15%, nearly twice the legal limit.
Peachee was charged with DUI and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


BREAK IN
April 14, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Daniel Smith was called to a 5th Street residence in Huntingburg late last night to investigate a burglary.
An unknown person or persons forced their way in the house and stole several prescription medicines.
Anyone with information is asked to please contact the Indiana State Police Jasper Post at 482-1441.


MILLHOUSE BROKEN INTO
April 14, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the Millhouse on Mill Street Sunday morning for a break-in.
Officials report the restaurant was broken into sometime between midnight Saturday and 8:45AM Sunday. A safe and an undisclosed amount of money was taken.
Anyone with information is asked to please contact Jasper City Police at 482-2255.


TEEN FALLS ASLEEP
April 14, 2008 - A Jasper teen escapes major injuries when she falls asleep at the wheel Sunday morning.
19 year old Nicole Rasche was driving south of Portersville Road when she fell asleep. The 2004 Toyota Rav 4 went off the road, struck a culvert, overturned and finally came to a rest in the roadway on its wheels.
The vehicle was totalled in the 1:40AM crash. Rasche complained of pain in her arm but refused treatment.
Officials say her injuries were greatly reduced due to her wearing her seatbelt.



MOTORCYCLE THEFT FOUND
April 14, 2008 - Upon a lengthy investigation, Indiana State Police arrested 22 year old Anthony Sturgeon of Jasper and 28 year old Jason Schepers of Huntingburg Saturday evening in connection to the March 31 theft of a four wheeler and motorcycle owned by Jason Brockreide of Huntingburg.
Schepers and Spurgeon were charged with two counts of auto theft, two counts of possession of stolen property and one count of obstruction of justice.
If convicted, each could serve up to 15 years and fine of $50,000.


BATTERY
April 14, 2008 - Huntingburg Police were called to a Van Buren residence in reference to a possible fight taking place early Sunday morning.
When officers arrived, they found 23 year old Vicente Ramirez of Huntingburg sitting in the dining room, bleeding from his face. Ramirez and a witness stated that the suspect was 31 year old David Bennett Jr. of Huntingburg. Bennett had fled the scene when officers arrived.
After getting a description of Bennett, officers went looking for him. Bennett was later found near 9th Street. Bennett was arrested and charged with battery and taken to Huntingburg Police Station for processing, then transported to Memorial Hospital for his broken right hand.
Bennett was later lodged in the Dubois County Security Center. Ramirez refused treatment for his injuries.
Authorities report the two men were apparently fighting over money.


ALCOHOL TO MINORS
April 14, 2008 - A Pike County man was arrested over the weekend for furnishing alcohol and pornographic material to six minors. Indiana State Police arrested 42 year old Jonathan Edwards Saturday afternoon after a parent of one of the juveniles said Edwards was giving her child alcohol. The juveniles ranged from 10-15 years of age.
Edwards was arrested at his residence without incident and charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and reckless furnishing of alcohol to a minor.
The investigation is continuing.


POSSESSION
April 12, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Phillip Hensley pulled 23 year old Amy Bolin of Celestine over for a normal traffic violation late last night.
Hensley pulled over Bolin's 2001 Kia on 36th Street just west of Mill Street. During the stop, Hensley smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Further investigation revealed Bolin had just used marijuana and had a small quantity in her possession.
Bolin was charged with possession of marijuana and operating while intoxicated. She was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


OWI
April 12, 2008 - Huntingburg Police Officers were called to the Hucks gas station on 6th and US 231 early this morning when 28 year old Mindy Garland pulled up.
Officers noticed Garland staggering from her vehicle. At one point, Garland tripped over the pavement, nearly falling to the ground. Officers approached and asked if she had been drinking. While speaking with Garland, officers noticed a strong odor of alcohol coming from Garland and she kept rocking back and forth.
Garland failed a series of field sobriety tests and tested .19%, two and a half times the legal limit.
Since this was her third OWI in three years, her charges were upgraded to felony status. She was also charged with driving on a suspended license and was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


MUSHROOM BUST
April 12, 2008 - Two Knox County people were arrested Friday afternoon on multiple charges.
Indiana State Police along with Bicknell Police executed a search warrant Friday after receiving information that illegal drug activity was occuring at a Noble Street residence, occupied by 22 year old Jessica Wilson and 25 year old Darren Miller.
When officers entered the home, they discovered an indoor mushroom grow operation and a small amount of marijuana. Authorities also found prescription drugs that were not prescribed. Miller was charged with felony counts of possession of a schedule one controlled substance, controlled substance, manufactoring a schedule one controlled substance, maintaining a common nuisance and a misdemeanor count of possessing marijuana under thiry grams.
Wilson was charged with felony possession of a schedule four controlled substance and drug paraphernalia, plus possession of marijuana under thirty grams. Both were taken to the Knox County Jail.


CHILD EXPLOITATION
April 12, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested a Pike County woman last night for child exploitation.
According to State Police Detective Odom, 36 year old Stephanie Kluemper of Petersburg was arrested after his investigation revealed she has child pornography on her cell phone. During the investigation, Detective Odom revealed Kluemper had received a video clip on her cell phone of a 17 year old male nude and fondling himself. Kluemper stated she knew the male was 17. After viewing the clip, Kluemper then allegedly forwarded the video to other including people under 18.
Kluemper was charged on six felony counts of child exploitation, two felony counts of disseminating matter harmful to a minor and one misdemeanor charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. She is currently being held on bond at the Pike County Jail.


CLINTON IN TOWN
April 11, 2008 - Starting an hour late, former President Bill Clinton, campaigning for his wife, presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton arrived in Dubois County yesterday evening.
State representative Denny Oxley introduced the President to well over the 2,000 seating capacity at the Jasper Middle School.
Clinton started off the speech with three simple reasons he says his wife, Hillary, would be the better choice for President.
First, focus on the future; the future is the only thing that matters and he says that means bringing our troops home.
Two, Hillary would cut cost; lower grocery and gas prices, mentioning the average family spends an extra $400-$500 a year on gasoline and $200-$300 a year at the grocery store for food. Clinton went on to say that college tuitions are up 73% and Hillary would like to get every single student to go to college for a minimum two years. He stated there is no need for money to be in the way of education.
Clinton then went on to say that incomes are flat! There arent enough good jobs. Clinton then informed the crowd that there were 22.7 million jobs when he was in office and only 5 million jobs now!
The President also encouraged everyone to vote. He says all americans should vote and their vote should count. He then stated Indiana could make a difference in this years primary election.
Finally President Clinton mentioned three things to ask yourself at the end of your term to see if you were a good president.
One, people are better off when you have finished than when you took office, two; you brightened childrens futures in america and three; the world came together as a whole and stopped tearing itself apart.
Clinton ended with a quote "Hillarys the one that can do this, so lets get the show on the road."


CHILD HIT
April 10, 2008 - The Indiana State Police Department are requesting the public's assistance with a crash in rural Sullivan County that has left a small child in critical condition and troopers looking for the suspect vehicle.
On Tuesday between 6:30 and 7PM a group of children were playing near the road on CR 1125S just west of CR 350W in southern Sullivan County. A vehicle traveling west on 1125 struck 5 year old Codie Pusey of Carlisle while riding his tricycle near a mailbox.
The suspect vehicle then continued westbound from the scene.
The child's grandmother rushed Codie to Sullivan County Community Hospital where he was stabilized and later airlifted to Methodist Hospital.
Little Codie sustained head, chest, and internal injuries and is currently in a coma.
The suspect vehicle is a red, possibly four door car, with possible customization to lower body, a rear spoiler on the trunk, fuzzy dice hanging from the mirror and a loud exhaust. The suspect car should also have front end damage and possible windshield damage. The driver is thought to be a male.
Anyone with information is encouraged to please contact State Police immediately.


WARRANT
April 10, 2008 - A Crawford County man who ran out of gas ended up in jaile yesterday morning.
Indiana State Trooper Jon Deere was traveling along SR 37, north of SR 70 and stopped to assist a motorist who was out of gas.
While helping out 24 year old David Woodward, Trooper Deere found Woodward was wanted on a warrant out of Harrison County for a probation violation concerning the possession of a controlled substance.
Woodward was then taken to the Perry County Jail without incident.


ANOTHER SHOPLIFTER
April 10, 2008 - Jasper City Police have arrested yet another shoplifter, with this incident occuring on the north side of town.
Police officials were called to the Wal-Mart Supercenter shortly before 3:30 Wednesday in reference to a shoplifter being detained.
When authorities arrived, store employees were holding 19 year old Roy Hedge of Henderson Kentucky. Hedge was arrested for attempting to take $29 worth of items including a back pack and food items without paying for them.
Hedge was transported to the Dubois County Security Center where he is being held on one count of theft.


CAMPER BROKEN INTO
April 10, 2008 - Trooper Jarrod Lents from Indiana State Police responded to a Creek Road home in rural Martin County Tuesday afternoon in reference to a burglary investigation.
According to State Police, three campers and an RV owned by Micah, Laron, and Paul Keith of Indian Springs were recently broken into. Several items were stolen including a flat screen tv, projector screen, navigation system and various dvd's.
The Keith family says their property was broken into sometime between April 3 and April 8.
Anyone with information pertaining to this crime are asked to contact Indiana State Police at the Jasper Post 1-800-742-7475.


ANOTHER THEFT
April 10, 2008 - Another theft investigation to report. This one coming from the Huntingburg Machine Works.
Machine Works employees say while recently working at Paoli Park, someone had taken tools off of their work truck. The crime is thought to have happened between April 2 and April 4.
Anyone with information is to contact the Indiana State Police at the Jasper Post.


THEFT #3
April 10, 2008 - One more theft to report. Indiana State Police trooper Jarrod Lents responded to Stone and Stemle in Ireland Thursday in a response to a theft.
According to State Police, an unknown person or persons stole a 425 Model John Deere Lawn Tractor from the grounds. Employees believe the theft occured sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday.
The tractor is valed at $4500. The theft remains under investigation.


POSSESSION
April 10, 2008 - Indiana State Troopers were called to a Huntingburg residence early this morning to investigate possible drug activity.
After receiving permission to enter the home, troopers located marijuana and other drug paraphernalia inside.
23 year old Glen Bath and 18 year old Kimberly Bernardi, both of Huntingburg, were arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Both were lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.



DRUG ACTIVITY
April 10, 2008 - State Troopers and Dubois County Sheriff's Deputies received information about possible drug activity at a Holland Apartment late last night.
During the course of their investigation, officials found 34 year old Jason Henning of Tell City to be in possession of less than thirty grams of marijuana and other drug paraphernalia.
Henning was charged with possession of marijuana and lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.



NOT PAYING CHILD SUPPORT
April 10, 2008 - A Birdseye man was arrested after not paying his child support.
Trooper Brock Werne arrived at 30 year old Chad Frye's residence on a Crawford County warrant for non support of a dependant.
Frye was lodged in the Crawford County Jail without incident.


JASPER OWI ARRESTS
April 09, 2008 - Two Jasper residents are in custody on alcohol charges following an early morning traffic stop.
According to the Dubois County Sheriff's Departmentm, Jasper City Police responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle in the 5th Avenue area around 4AM this morning. Officers were not able to stop the vehicle, which was last seen leaving Jasper on Division Road. Dubois County Sheriff's Deputies were patrolling in the Duff area when they spotted the vehicle.
Deputies say the two occupants, 28 year old Shawn Mehringer and 27 year old Phillip Thimling attempted to switch positions. Mehringer was unable to drive off however, because Thimling had set the parking brake during the switch.
Thimling was arrested on a charge of OWI-Felony status after failing a blood alcohol test at the Huntingburg Police Station. He was taken to Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained earlier Tuesday evening. Mehringer was charged with a felony count of possession of a controlled substance as well as OWI, possession of marijuana and driving while suspended. He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


TURKEY FARM FIRE
April 09, 2008 - The Ferdinand Volunteer Fire Department responded to a massive fire last night, the cause of which is still under investigation.
Ferdinand Fire Chief Dan Lindaur reports firefighters were called out at 9:43PM Tuesday to the report of a structure fire at the Kurt Begle turkey farm on Ferdinand road northwest. When firemen arrived, a storage building was totally engulfed.
According to Lindauer the cause of the fire is still under investigation. 25 firefighters and all trucks from Ferdinand responded, as did 12 men and a tanker truck from St. Henry, plus six men and a tanker truck provided by Huntingburg. Firemen were on the scene for three and a half hours. The building and all of its contents, including two semi loads of shavings and various equipment was destroyed.


EMERGENCY LANDING
April 09, 2008 - Indiana State Police, Warrick County Sheriff's Deputies and Boonville Firefighters responded to an open field Tuesday morning, one mile southwest of SR 61 on the report of a plane making an emergency landing.
According to the Indiana State Police preliminary investigation, it was revealed 65 year old Reggie Long and his passenger 78 year old Thomas Hauck both of Newburgh, took off from the Boonville airport at around 11AM. Shortly after taking off in his 1995 Homemade Experimental aircraft, long noticed and unusual vibration and didnt think he could safely return to the airport.
Long then made an emergency landing in a farm field, located right across from Boonville Jr High School. During the landing, the aircraft received damage to its landing rear. Authorities say Long and Hauck were both wearing selt belts and were not injured.
Long says he's been flying since 1996.


SERIOUS CRASH
April 09, 2008 - Indiana State Police responded to a two vehicle crash on US 41 at CR 1025 south that seriously injured a Gibson County woman.
Investigation revealed that 75 year old Wanda Tenbarge of Haubstadt was driving her 2001 Buick eastbound on CR 1025 when she failed to yield at the intersection with highway 41. Tenbarge pulled into the path of a northbound tractor trailor driven by 55 year old Warren Warner of Vincennes.
Warner was not injured, but Tenbarge was taken to St. Marys Hospital where she is currently being treated for serious injuries.
The crash backed up traffic for nearly six hours.


TEEN PULLS OUT IN FRONT OF VAN
April 09, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to the intersection of 5th and U.S 231 last night when a teen pulled out in front of a van and caused to two to collide.
66 year old Loretta Jaent of Jasper was driving her 1997 Caravan south on 231 when 16 year old Alexandra Weisman of Otwell in her 2004 Dodge Stratus failed to yield and struck Jaent.
Jaent complained of neck pain after the 9:19PM crash. Weisman was not injured but was cited for faliure to yield the right of way.
Both vehicles sustained $16,000 in total damage.



ILLEGAL PRESCRIPTION
April 09, 2008 - A Huntingburg woman was arrested when attempting to purchase drugs with an alcoholic prescription.
Jasper City Police were called to the local Walgreens at around 3:15 yesterday and there they arrested 26 year old Lisa Bradley.
Bradley was charged with attempting illegal possession of controlled substance.


DRUNK
April 09, 2008 - Indiana State Trooper Trey Lytton went to Casper Lane in Santa Claus to investigate a vehicle parked in the middle of the road.
Further invesigation showed 26 year old Daniel Tempel of Santa Claus was driving while intoxicated. It was also determined he had a previous OWI conviction in the past five years.
Tempel was lodged in the Spencer County Jail on one count of OWI.


BILL CLINTON COMING TO TOWN
April 08, 2008 - Former President Bill Clinton announced earlier this week that he would be in the southwest indiana region to help campaign for his wife presidential canidate Hillary Clinton. Towns to be visited include Boonville, Jasper, Vincennes, and Clinton.
Clinton campaign officials have now set a time and date for the arrival of Bill Clinton in Jasper.
Doors will open at 5PM at the Jasper Middle School this Thursday April 10 and he is scheduled to speak at 5:30PM.
Clinton will share his wife's plans to jumpstart the economy, create new, high wage jobs, and restore the middle class.
The gymnasium seats about 2,000 people so it will be a first come first serve basis.


FRAUD WARRANT
April 08, 2008 - Late last night Indiana State Trooper Justin Bean pulled over 35 year old Kelly Moore of Salem Missouri on I-64 near mile marker 63 on a routine traffic violation.
A license check by Trooper Bean revealed Moore was wanted on a warrant out of Texas County in Missouri for fraud.
Kelly Moore was arrested and taken to the Dubois County Security Center.


TWO ARRESTED ON THEFT AND BURGLARY
April 08, 2008 - Warrick County Sheriff's Deputies are investigating a string of car break-ins and a burglary that occured over the last five days.
On Friday, April 4, deputies with the Sheriff's Office received four reports of car break-ins and criminal mischief in the Eaglewood subdivision in Ohio Township. There were at least four vehicles damaged in the crime spree, with at least one of these having extensive damage to the interior. The suspects broke out the windows of the vehicles and stole articles from the interior.
On Monday April 7th, deputies were dispatched to three separate subdivisions in Ohio Township reference to car break-ins and a burglary to a residence. There were five separate reports taken of this type, in three different subdivisions. Again the windows of the vehicles were broken out and articles stolen from inside, and one residence broken into.
The suspects then used credit cards stolen from the vehicles, to purchase articles from area retailers. These retailers cooperated with police in the investigation.
20 year old Zachery Kiefer of Evansville, along with a male juvenile were arrested last night for their involvement in these crimes.
A third suspect, 19 year old Christopher Thompson was still at large at the time but later turned himself into detectives at the Warrick Security Center Monday night. Both are being charged with burglary and theft. Additional charges will be filed through the prosecutors office.


FOUR ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES
April 08, 2008 - Sunday morning, around 9AM, Troopers Greg Day and Josh Allen from the Bloomington Post went to a Sowers Lane residence in Bedford to attempt to serve an arrest warrant on Brandon Brown for purchase of more than three grams of precursors in a week. The warrant was out of Lawrence County.
Upon arrival, Day and Allen smelled the strong odor of a meth lab coming from the garage. When occupants of the house opened the door to the residence, an even stronger meth lab smell was coming from inside the house. Day and Allen secured the occupants of the residence and called for assistance. While doing so, items associated with a meth lab were in plain view.
Lawrence County Officers came to assist. Along with members of the Indiana State Police Methamphetamine Suppression Unit. Troopers Jon Patrick and Brad Mundy also assisted at the scene.
Several precursors and items showing the manufacture of methamphetamine were recovered from the residence and garage. Drugs and methamphetamine smoking parahernalia was also recovered.
There were two small children (ages one and two) in the residence at the time where the meth was being manufactored. The children were taken by family members and CPS to the hospital for medical evaluation due to the strong fumes and conditions in the house.
Arrested and charged were: 25 year old Garry Moore of Bedford charged with manufacture of meth with firearm, possession of meth precursors with firearm, maintaining a common nuisance, illegal dumping of controlled substance waste, neglect of a dependant, taking a child to a common nuisance
25 year old Brandon Brown of Bedford charged with maintaining common nuisance, possession of meth and paraphernalia, neglect of a dependant, taking a child to a common nuisance, warrant and purchase of more than three grams of precursors, possession of meth precursors.
25 year old Jessie Nikirk of Bedford charged with maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependant, taking a child to a common nuisance
29 year old Tabitha Moore of Bedford charged with maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependant, taking a child to a common nuisance.
61 year old Keith Moody of Vallonia also charged with visiting a common nuisance.


HUFFING ARREST
April 08, 2008 - Huntingburg Police were dispatched to the scene of a single vehicle accident around 10:30PM last night.
When officers arrived they found 18 year old Jason Ward of Huntingburg sitting behind the wheel of his Pontiac Grand Am.
The investigation revealed, the vehicle was travelling south in the 200 block of Sycamore Street. Ward struck a parked truck belonging to Lonzo Morrow, then continued south, past the dead end sign and stopped in an area of trees in the back yard of Tim Wire.
When officers approached Ward, they found that he was confused and disoriented. Ward was arrested and charged with inhaling toxic vapors, commonly known as huffing. Ward was also charged with operating while intoxicated.
He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.


SHOTS FIRED
April 07, 2008 - Indiana State Police and the Orange County Sheriff's Department responded to shots being fired on CR 710 South in Orange County Saturday night.
The suspect was found to be hiding out at a nearby residence. Police officials located 19 year old Delmer Parsons of Paoli hiding in a closet at that residence.
According to Trooper Tim Weisenberger, Parsons allegedly battered three victims, caused property damage, and recklessly discharged a firearm during a domestic altercation, before fleeing the scene.
State Police then arrested and charged Parsons with four counts of criminal recklessness, four counts of battery, three counts of disorderly conduct, two counts of criminal mischief, and one count of possession of paraphernalia.
Parsons was taken to the Orange County Jail.


ACCIDENT INJURES SEVEN
April 07, 2008 - Huntingburg Police were called to the intersection of 231 and E 22nd Street in response to an accident that injured seven people Sunday afternoon.
Police officials report that 22 year old Tomasa Perez of Dale was driving southbound on 231 when a car in front of her suddenly swerved to miss a green van that was stopped, waiting to turn. Perez was unable to react and rearended 34 year old Juan Nunez of Huntingburg.
Six of the injuries came from the Nunez caravan. Nunez along with five of his passengers; 28 year old Adelia Nunez, 21 year old Angelina Dubon, two female juveniles, and one male juvenile all complained of back and neck pain. A passenger in Perez's neon, 53 year old Sabina Cital also complained of neck and back pain.
All seven injured were transported to Memorial Hospital where they were treated and later released.


STOLEN MOTORCYCLE
April 07, 2008 - Working on a tip, Indiana State Police located a stolen motorcycle in a residential garage in Jasper.
Through his investigation, Trooper Brock Werne discovered the motorcycle, reported stolen from a Harley Davidson Shop in Mt. Vernon , Illinois was missing parts. Werne then questioned a man at the residence. That led Werne to a residence in Huntingburg, where the parts were located.
Trooper Werne then arrested Mark Dresher into custody where he was charged with possession of stolen property and was taken to the Dubois County Security Center.


TWO INMATES ESCAPE
April 05, 2008 - Two inmates are now on the loose after escaping the Branchville Correctional Facility Friday night.
It was around 10PM last night, that Branchville Correctional Officers noticed 20 year old Conan Helsley and 45 year old Kent Day were not in their dorm. An emergency count quickly verified that the two had escaped from the facility. Helsley is serving a sentence for robbery and burglary. Day is serving a sentence for murder.
At the time of their escape, both inmates were wearing a khaki shirt and pants. Indiana State Police believe that the two were most likely picked up from a nearby location and are no longer in the immediate area.
State officials think Day may possibly be headed to the Madisonville Kentucky area. Helsley is from Pike County and is also known to frequent Warrick and Vanderburgh Counties. Both inmates are considered dangerous.
Helsley is described as a 5'5 130lb white male with short brown hair and brown eyes. Day is a 5'11 165lb black male with corn rows and green eyes. He also wears glasses.
Anyone with information concerning their whereabouts is encouraged to contact State Police at 800-742-7475


MAJOR DRUG SEIZURE
April 05, 2008 - Daviess County Police traffic stop leads to the arrest of two people, plus a drug seizure.
25 year old Jennifer Tedford of Washington was stopped by Daviess County Sheriff's Deputies for a routine traffic violation. During the investigation, Tedford was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia, meth, and marijuana. It was also determined she was operating her vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance. She was arrested on the possession charges and OWI-controlled substance, plus maintaining a common nuisance. The investigation then led to a Jersey Street address in Washington where a search warrant was obtained.
35 year old Kevin Jones of Memphis Tennessee was stopped while leaving the Jersey Street home.
He was arrested and charged with multiple drug charge, including two counts of dealing cocaine, one count of dealing cocaine with in 1000 feet of a day care facility, plus possession of cocaine and marijuana, two counts of a schedule three controlled substance, a legend drug, one count of maintaining a common nuisance, and reckless possession of paraphernalia.
Both are being held in the Daviess County Jail.


DRUG CHARGES
April 05, 2008 - Indiana State Police observed two suspicious vehicles last night at around 9:15 at the Amish Country Corner on U.S. 50 west of Montgomery.
While speaking with the vehicles occupants, Trooper Gaven Wilson detected the odor of burnt marijuana. Wilson searched the vehicles and located under thirty grams of marijuana. 20 year old Josh Keller of Cannelburg and 20 year old Preston Madison of Washington were both arrested and charged with possession of marijuana. Both were transported to the Daviess County Jail without further incident.
Troopers Lytton and Nalley of the Jasper Post along with Daviess County Sheriff's assisted at the scene.


DRUG AND ALCOHOL ARREST
April 05, 2008 - Jasper City Police arrested a Jasper man early this morning with alcohol and drug charges.
Jasper officials pulled over 38 year old Scott Eckert for driving left of center. Further investigation showed Eckert was not only intoxicated but had possession of under thirty grams of marijuana.
Eckert tested .22% on the breathalyzer, almost three times the legal limit.
Eckert was arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated and possession of marijuana. He was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center.



FAILURE TO APPEAR
April 05, 2008 - Early this morning Indiana State Police stopped 25 year old Jason Galloway of Owensboro Kentucky for a traffic violation.
Further investigation revealed that Galloway had a Clark County warrant for Failure to Appear for operating while intoxicated. He was then taken into custody and lodged in the Spencer County Jail.


H'BURG CITY COUNCIL
April 04, 2008 - The Huntingburg City Council approved a salary admendment for the new head of maintenance position at the street department during Thursday's regular meeting.
By a unanimous vote, council members approved adding the title of the head of maintenance to Dave Schwoeppe. As part of the agreement, the street department will be paying 20% of Schwoeppe's salary.
In addition to his mechanics duties with the wastewater department, Schwoeppe's responsibilities consist of routine maintenance including; oil changes, brakes, your general tune up.
Huntingburg Mayor Melvin Belcher says in addition to his job, Schwoeppe has worked on cars for years.
Before the vote was taken, Council members Jean Majors and Ken Sparrow admitted surprise to the action. The two were told by Mayor Belcher they had signed an approval last month but were unaware of that action. Following a discussion, the two stressed they were okay with the promotion of Schwoeppe, that it was just a misunderstanding on how the whole thing took place.


WOMAN RESCUED
April 04, 2008 - A Tell City woman was rescued from a burning home yesterday morning sending her and a local police officer to the hospital.
Debbie Howell called 911 around 2AM Thursday morning to report she was trapped in the basement while her house was on fire. Tell City Volunteer Firefighters and Tell City Police Officers rescued Howell from a window. Howell was taken to Perry County Memorial Hospital.
Tell City Police officer and firefighter Bryce Hammack was taken to Perry County Hospital as well for smoke inhalation.
According to Fire Chief Greg Linne, two other people in the house escaped without injury from the first floor of the home.
21 firefighters were on the scene for about four hours and the home sustained heat damage.


HABITUAL VIOLATOR
April 04, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested a French Lick man last night on being a habitual traffic violator and other various charges.
Troopers Trey Lytton and Ben Nalley observed 48 year old Tony Poe operating a vehicle near RJ's Shoals, while being a habitual traffic violator with a lifetime suspension.
During investigation, Poe was found to be operating the vehicle while intoxicated.
While being transported to the Martin County Jail, Poe destroyed several articles in the Indiana State Police Commission. At the jail, Poe became disorderly and resisted law enforcement.
Poe was charged with being a habitual traffic violator, OWI, resisting law enforcement, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, and public intoxication.


BATTERY
April 04, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to a home on Carroll Street after battery had taken place.
30 year old Nathan Jacob of Jasper was arrested around 1:38AM this morning and charged with domestic battery.
He is currently being held in the Dubois County Security Center.


ARRESTS
April 04, 2008 - The Daviess County Sheriff's Department made a few arrests yesterday.
24 year old Ashley Bechtel of Washington was arrested and charged with theft. Bechtel bond set at $2500.
36 year old Garrick Cooper of Odon was also arrested by Daviess County officials. Cooper was charged with residential entry and criminal trespass. His bond also set at $2500.
Both are currently being held in the Daviess County Jail.


FLOOD VICTIM FOUND
April 03, 2008 - Indiana Conservation Officers recovered the body of a Shoals man from flood waters.
85 year old Woodrow Rogers was found in the waters along Powell Valley Toad in the southeast section of Martin County. The body was found approximately at 11AM yesterday in four and a half feet of water, 70 feet from his vehicle.
Investigation revealedthat on Monday Mr. Rogers had left his home for a Dr. appointment. When he did not arrive, family members were contacted and began looking for him.
A local residence noticed Rogers trucks in the flood waters Monday afternoon and contacted Martin County Sheriff's Department.
It is speculated that Rogers was attempting to wade out of the flood waters. He was unable to make it to shore and succumbed to hypothermia as a result of the cold water.
The Martin County Coroner has ruled the death an accidental drowning.


MISSOURI DRUG CHARGES
April 03, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested two Missouri men last night on drug charges.
Indiana State Trooper Justin Bean stopped a 1997 Ford Mustang eastbound on interstate 64 at around 11:15PM last night for a traffic violation.
Upon further investigation, it was determined that the driver 29 year old Timothy Laws of Columbia Missouri and his passenger 24 year old Christopher Timmons of St. Charles Missouri were in possession of less than thirty grams of marijuana.
Further tests showed that Laws was also operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana.
Laws and Timmons were arrested and charged with possession of marijuana under thirty grams, Laws was also charged with OWI. Both were takn to the Dubois County Security Center.


I-69 EXTENSION
April 03, 2008 - The state has opened the bidding on a contract to build the first section on the long-planned I-69 extension between Evansville and Indianapolis.
Contractors have already started clearing trees and homes in Gibson County. Construction is set to start in midsummer. A federal judge in December ruled against environmental groups that had sued to try to block the highway. Indiana Department of Transportation officials are concerned about threats to the project following an internet posting from an environmental group protesting the project.
In an effort to keep the peace, the Gibson County Sheriff's Department is conducting extra patrols.


CRASH INJURES EIGHT PEOPLE
April 02, 2008 - A two vehicle crash on SR 65 at CR 700 South in Gibson county last night injures eight people.
Indiana State Police were called to the scene of the collision, which closed down 65 for about an hour. The preliminary investigation revealed that 25 year old Tamika Robinson of Henderson Kentucky was driving a 1990 Chevy eastbound on CR 700 South when she failed to yield the right of way and collided with a southbound Ford SUV driven by 27 year old Jaime Burris.
Robinson and both of her passengers were injured. 28 year old Shawna Morell and 25 year old Darik Morell, both of Evansville, were taken to St. Mary's Hospital for treatment of back and neck injuries respectively.
Burris and her four passengers were also injured in the collision. Burris and 30 year old David Smitha both of Evansville, were airlifted to St. Mary's Hospital where they are being treated for their injuries. 24 year old Tabitha Burris and 18 year old Justin Burris, also both of Evansville, were taken to Deaconess for head and back injuries. 17 year old Brittany Stuard of Evansville was transported to the Deaconess Gateway Facility for unspecified injuries.
The investigation is still on going. Gibson County Sheriff's Department assisted State Police with the 11:26PM crash.


UNEMPLOYMENT
April 02, 2008 - Indiana's unemployment rate edged up a tenth of a point to 4.6% in the month of February. Thats still below the national rate of 4.8%
Dubois County unemployment rates jumped in February from 3.3 to 3.7%. February rates took a leap in six of the eight neighboring counties: Daviess from 3.2 to 3.5%, Martin County up a half percent to 4.9%, Orange jumped 5.6 to 6.4, Pike up half percent to 5%, Spencer rose to 5.2%, and Warrick County 4.2 to 4.4% in the month of February.
The state lost 9600 jobs in the month of February to drop to its worst employment level in ten months. Its the sharpest one month decline in five months.


WARRANT #2
April 02, 2008 - Indiana State Police also arrested a Crawford County man on a warrant charge Tuesday.
According to State Police, 46 year old Bradley Myers of Rural Crawford County was arrested at approximately 10:30PM last night on an Orange County warrant for failure to appear on a charge of driving while suspended with a prior. Myers was arrested without incident at a governor's trace residence.
Myers was lodged in the Orange County Jail.


WARRANT
April 02, 2008 - Indiana State Police arrested a Jasper man on an outstanding warrant Tuesday evening.
State Trooper Justin Bean along with members of the Dubois County Sheriff's Department went to the West 7th street apartment of 27 year old Ryan Lawrence just before 9PM. Lawrence was arrested on an Orange County warrant for a charge of battery with a deadly weapon. Lawrence was lodged without incident in the Orange County Jail.


THEFT UPDATE
April 02, 2008 - The items stolen from a Huntingburg residence have benn recovered.
A property owner near the Birdseye Conservation Club notified Dubois County Sheriff's Department Tuesday afternoon that he has located a mud-covered motorcycle and 4 wheeler abandoned on his property. This information was forwarded to Indiana State Police Trooper Philip Lubbers who was investigating the theft.
Jason Brockriede reported to police Tuesday morning that his barn on West State Road 64 had been broken into sometime Sunday or Monday. Stolen items included a green 2007 Kawasaki 360 Prairie 4 wheeler, and an orange 2007 KTM 250 Motorcycle. Total value of the stolen property was $10,000.
No arrests have been made at this time but the investigation is still on-going. Both machines have been returned to Brockriede.


VANDALISM
April 01, 2008 - Huntingburg Firefighters were called to St. Mary Center at around 8PM last night for a fire.
When fire officials arrived there was very heavy smoke coming out of the boys bathroom and into the cafeteria and gymnasium. Firefighters located the fire in the boys bathroom in the middle of the floor. By-standers had attempted to put out the flames with an extinguisher but were unsuccessful. Firefighters were able to snuff out the fire and discovered vandalism had taken place.
Fire Chief Glen Kissling tells WITZ News that the fire started with a bunch of paper towels and there was significant damage to the restroom and smoke had gone out into the cafeteria and gymnasium.
No one was injured in the 7:57PM incident. The Huntingburg Fire Department had four trucks and 18 men on the scene for 45 minutes. No arrests have been made at this time but the investigation is on-going.


THEFT
April 01, 2008 - Indiana State Police are investigating a theft that took place at the Brockriede residence in Huntingburg.
Jason Brockriede reported to police that he had his barn broken into sometime Sunday or Monday. Stolen items included a Green 2007 Kawasaki 360 Prairie 4 wheeler, and an Orange 2007 KTM 250 Motorcycle. Total value of the stolen property was $10,000.
No arrests were made but the investigation is still on-going.


BATTERY
April 01, 2008 - Jasper City Police were called to 5th Street Elementery to arrest a man at around 12:30 Monday for battery.
A female victim contacted police and advised that she had been battered by her boyfriend.
City Police Officials arrested 25 year old Nathan Hawkins of Huntingburg. The female advised Hawkins had battered her on three separate occasions over the past ten days.
Hawkins was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center and charged with Domestic Battery in front of a child under the age of 16, two counts of strangulation, and criminal confinement.


E-MAIL SCAMS
April 01, 2008 - The Indiana State Police Special Investigations Section and the Criminal Investigation Division wants to notify the public of some e-mail scams that are currently in circulation. The e-mails falsely appear to come from the FDIC, IRS, and other federal agencies. In reality, these e-mails attempt to obtain sensitive personal information, including bank account information.
According to Director Sandra Thompson, FDIC Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection the FDIC has received numerous notifications from consumers of an e-mail that gives the appearance of being sent from the FDIC.
Another group of fraudulent e-mails take advantage of the tax filing season and this years economic stimulus package coming in the mail. These e-mails falsely appear to be from the IRS or other federal agencies. Some claim to help people get your tax money quicker. Others