fentanyl Archives - News Now Warsaw https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/tag/fentanyl/ Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:53:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Drop in opioid overdose deaths nears 50% since 2023 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/drop-in-opioid-overdose-deaths-nears-50-since-2023/ Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:52:18 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=128663 By Tim Henderson
Indiana Capital Chronicle

Since their peak less than three years ago, opioid overdose deaths have dropped nearly by half as of October, according to a Stateline analysis. The drop comes as a shrinking fentanyl supply has made the drug weaker and less deadly and volunteer efforts get more people into treatment.

The weaker fentanyl tracks to a crackdown on materials used to make fentanyl in China around the time U.S. deaths started dropping in 2023. Some experts see it as a welcome, but possibly temporary, break for states in a scourge that boosted crime as people who are using the drugs sometimes fall into homelessness and steal to support fentanyl habits.

The numbers and rates of opioid overdose deaths fell for all races between 2023 and 2026, according to more detailed data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed by Stateline. That’s in contrast to an earlier trend from 2019 to 2023, when rates dropped only among white people and rose sharply among Black and Indigenous Americans.

Ohio had the nation’s largest decrease since mid-2023, when the nation’s opioid overdose deaths peaked. Ohio has seen fewer deaths but more risky behavior lately as fentanyl supplies dry up and people turn to substitutes tainted by animal tranquilizers.

Ohio is seeing a difference in the bottom line, said Erin Reed, director of RecoveryOhio, the state agency charged with reducing overdose deaths.

“We’re seeing things you would expect — like reductions in emergency department visits and reductions in Medicaid costs,” Reed said. “But we’re also seeing a positive impact on violent crime and recidivism, and I think this is really, really encouraging. At the end of the day, people want to be safe.”

Sarah Beckman, 36, stopped using illicit drugs 11 years ago when she learned she was pregnant with her first child. Now she works through Hamilton County’s Quick Response Team to help Ohio residents who use fentanyl.

When overdoses peaked a few years ago, the team started spending more time talking to people after overdoses.

“We saw overdoses were going up and up, and going out two days a week was not enough. We expanded it to full-time,” Beckman said. “That window is so small. It has to be kind of a perfect storm for an individual to be, like, ‘OK, I’m ready.’”

Even if people aren’t ready for treatment, kindness can help build trust and prevent some of the thefts and arrests that lead to police involvement, as it did for her when she stole to get money for drugs and was charged with resisting arrest, she said.

“When you’re in the midst of addiction, you need help with everything. For us it’s just meeting people where they are and saying, ‘Hey, are you hungry? Do you have enough clothes?’” Beckman said. “You’re showing consistency and empathy, and by doing that you can slowly move someone closer toward accepting overdose prevention materials or hopefully, eventually, treatment.”

Nationally, there were 46,066 opioid overdose deaths in the year ending with October, barely more than half the peak of 86,075 in June 2023 and the lowest since April 2017. The numbers, often delayed because of the process of determining overdose deaths, were released this month based on information available March 1 by the federal National Vital Statistics System.

Deaths fell the most in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and Florida since June 2023, but increased in Alaska, Arizona and Nevada.

In Ohio, annual deaths fell 63% from about 4,300 in June 2023 to about 1,600 as of October 2025.

As in many other states, deaths in Ohio started falling before 2023, but then dropped more sharply — 34% in that year alone, said Reed.

Arizona and Nevada, however, saw deaths increase since the national peak in 2023. Arizona’s border crossings with Mexico are among the largest fentanyl smuggling points in the country, with fentanyl traffic dominated by the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico. One Arizona crossing, the Port of Lukeville, was the site of the largest fentanyl seizure in U.S. Customs and Border Protection history: 4 million fentanyl pills hidden in a trailer brought to the border by a 20-year-old U.S. citizen in July 2024.

The state’s notorious summer heat exacerbates overdose deaths, according to recent research.

Plentiful supply from the border may help explain continued increases in Arizona, said Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association, a public health workers organization.

Political infighting over how to spend the state government’s share of $1.2 billion in opioid settlement money hasn’t helped, he said. The state attorney general, governor and legislature have gone to court over plans to use some of the money to balance the state budget.

“Many other states are way ahead of Arizona when it comes to distributing the state portion of the opioid settlement dollars,” Humble said. “It could be there are fewer interventions because the state dollars are locked up. There’s this dispute in Arizona over who gets to decide. Many other states are not having this jurisdictional issue.”

On the national stage, opioid overdose deaths fell across demographic groups. Even older Americans, whose overdose death numbers had surged earlier even as they fell for other groups, saw a 25% decline from 2023 to 2025, about half the national decrease, according to the Stateline analysis.

In a sign of a weaker fentanyl supply, the Drug Enforcement Administration said in December that 29% of the pills it seized in fiscal 2025 contained a lethal dose of fentanyl, down from 76% in fiscal 2023.

“These reductions in potency and purity correlate with a decline in synthetic opioid deaths,” the DEA said.

Keith Humphreys, a health policy professor at Stanford University who testified to the U.S. Senate in 2023 about increases in accidental overdose deaths among older adults, told Stateline that a “fentanyl supply shock” originating in China made fentanyl supplies weaker. That would include fentanyl-tainted cocaine, which had caused many deaths among older Black men, Humphreys said.

“This likely includes some long-term cocaine users who had the bad luck to get cocaine that had fentanyl in it,” Humphreys said in an interview. White women are more likely to overdose on prescription drugs in order to commit suicide, a trend that would be less likely to be affected by fentanyl supply, he added.

Humphreys and a team of other researchers, in a Science magazine report published in January, found a “drought” of fentanyl that could be traced on the social media platform Reddit.

Elevated mentions of a “drought” started in May 2023, nearly the same time as overdoses began to drop, their research found. Also, the Drug Enforcement Administration reported decreasing potency in seized fentanyl and fewer seizures, both indicating a shortage of supply.

“Drug dealers often adapt to supply shortages by lowering purity more than raising prices,” the report stated. The likely reason: China cracked down on source chemicals for making illicit fentanyl. Such “precursor” chemicals typically arrive from China and are processed in Mexico before being smuggled into the U.S. as illicit fentanyl.

“Actions by the government of China that resulted in greater scrutiny of production and export of precursor chemicals, including the removal of online advertisements and several marketplaces,” may have been what caused the drought in fentanyl and thus saved lives, the report concluded.

The DEA concluded that Mexican fentanyl producers were cutting potency because they were having a hard time finding source chemicals from China, the report noted. That makes it likely supply is the biggest reason for the drop in deaths, not enhanced U.S. border searches or other actions such as the Trump administration’s attacks on drug boats off the South American coast. Those boats are typically used to transport cocaine rather than fentanyl.

Data shows a similar drop in overdose deaths in Canada, where fentanyl supplies are usually produced from Chinese chemicals inside the country rather than smuggled in. That’s another reason to suspect that China’s crackdown affected both countries, despite differing policies and law enforcement strategies.

In their Science article, Humphreys and the other researchers noted that the recent decline in deaths offers the chance to prepare for future opioid-related problems.

“The incentive to restore the fentanyl trade will persist as long as there is demand for the drug,” the authors wrote. “It may be wise to use the current drought as an opportunity to ramp up the prevention and treatment programs that have evidence of decreasing demand.”

There have been some more recent upticks in death numbers.

Colorado saw an increase in synthetic opioid overdose deaths starting in late 2024, according to a Common Sense Institute report released this month. The institute is nonpartisan but has ties to the Republican Party, and concluded the state needs stiffer penalties for fentanyl possession and distribution, similar to Texas law. Opioid overdose deaths in Colorado are down 9% since the national peak in 2023, according to the Stateline analysis.

In Ohio, the recent trend among people who use fentanyl is to find pills spiked with an animal tranquilizer that causes severe addiction, said Beckman, of the Hamilton County Quick Response Team. Three recent clients survived overdoses but required emergency treatment, she said.

“We can educate people in the community: ‘Hey, your drugs are not what you thought they were, that’s why you’re experiencing all these weird side effects,’” Beckman said. “These substances are so severe that a traditional detox hasn’t been able to handle them.”

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network that includes Indiana Capital Chronicle, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

The post Drop in opioid overdose deaths nears 50% since 2023 appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Tim Henderson
Indiana Capital Chronicle

Since their peak less than three years ago, opioid overdose deaths have dropped nearly by half as of October, according to a Stateline analysis. The drop comes as a shrinking fentanyl supply has made the drug weaker and less deadly and volunteer efforts get more people into treatment.

The weaker fentanyl tracks to a crackdown on materials used to make fentanyl in China around the time U.S. deaths started dropping in 2023. Some experts see it as a welcome, but possibly temporary, break for states in a scourge that boosted crime as people who are using the drugs sometimes fall into homelessness and steal to support fentanyl habits.

The numbers and rates of opioid overdose deaths fell for all races between 2023 and 2026, according to more detailed data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed by Stateline. That’s in contrast to an earlier trend from 2019 to 2023, when rates dropped only among white people and rose sharply among Black and Indigenous Americans.

Ohio had the nation’s largest decrease since mid-2023, when the nation’s opioid overdose deaths peaked. Ohio has seen fewer deaths but more risky behavior lately as fentanyl supplies dry up and people turn to substitutes tainted by animal tranquilizers.

Ohio is seeing a difference in the bottom line, said Erin Reed, director of RecoveryOhio, the state agency charged with reducing overdose deaths.

“We’re seeing things you would expect — like reductions in emergency department visits and reductions in Medicaid costs,” Reed said. “But we’re also seeing a positive impact on violent crime and recidivism, and I think this is really, really encouraging. At the end of the day, people want to be safe.”

Sarah Beckman, 36, stopped using illicit drugs 11 years ago when she learned she was pregnant with her first child. Now she works through Hamilton County’s Quick Response Team to help Ohio residents who use fentanyl.

When overdoses peaked a few years ago, the team started spending more time talking to people after overdoses.

“We saw overdoses were going up and up, and going out two days a week was not enough. We expanded it to full-time,” Beckman said. “That window is so small. It has to be kind of a perfect storm for an individual to be, like, ‘OK, I’m ready.’”

Even if people aren’t ready for treatment, kindness can help build trust and prevent some of the thefts and arrests that lead to police involvement, as it did for her when she stole to get money for drugs and was charged with resisting arrest, she said.

“When you’re in the midst of addiction, you need help with everything. For us it’s just meeting people where they are and saying, ‘Hey, are you hungry? Do you have enough clothes?’” Beckman said. “You’re showing consistency and empathy, and by doing that you can slowly move someone closer toward accepting overdose prevention materials or hopefully, eventually, treatment.”

Nationally, there were 46,066 opioid overdose deaths in the year ending with October, barely more than half the peak of 86,075 in June 2023 and the lowest since April 2017. The numbers, often delayed because of the process of determining overdose deaths, were released this month based on information available March 1 by the federal National Vital Statistics System.

Deaths fell the most in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and Florida since June 2023, but increased in Alaska, Arizona and Nevada.

In Ohio, annual deaths fell 63% from about 4,300 in June 2023 to about 1,600 as of October 2025.

As in many other states, deaths in Ohio started falling before 2023, but then dropped more sharply — 34% in that year alone, said Reed.

Arizona and Nevada, however, saw deaths increase since the national peak in 2023. Arizona’s border crossings with Mexico are among the largest fentanyl smuggling points in the country, with fentanyl traffic dominated by the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico. One Arizona crossing, the Port of Lukeville, was the site of the largest fentanyl seizure in U.S. Customs and Border Protection history: 4 million fentanyl pills hidden in a trailer brought to the border by a 20-year-old U.S. citizen in July 2024.

The state’s notorious summer heat exacerbates overdose deaths, according to recent research.

Plentiful supply from the border may help explain continued increases in Arizona, said Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association, a public health workers organization.

Political infighting over how to spend the state government’s share of $1.2 billion in opioid settlement money hasn’t helped, he said. The state attorney general, governor and legislature have gone to court over plans to use some of the money to balance the state budget.

“Many other states are way ahead of Arizona when it comes to distributing the state portion of the opioid settlement dollars,” Humble said. “It could be there are fewer interventions because the state dollars are locked up. There’s this dispute in Arizona over who gets to decide. Many other states are not having this jurisdictional issue.”

On the national stage, opioid overdose deaths fell across demographic groups. Even older Americans, whose overdose death numbers had surged earlier even as they fell for other groups, saw a 25% decline from 2023 to 2025, about half the national decrease, according to the Stateline analysis.

In a sign of a weaker fentanyl supply, the Drug Enforcement Administration said in December that 29% of the pills it seized in fiscal 2025 contained a lethal dose of fentanyl, down from 76% in fiscal 2023.

“These reductions in potency and purity correlate with a decline in synthetic opioid deaths,” the DEA said.

Keith Humphreys, a health policy professor at Stanford University who testified to the U.S. Senate in 2023 about increases in accidental overdose deaths among older adults, told Stateline that a “fentanyl supply shock” originating in China made fentanyl supplies weaker. That would include fentanyl-tainted cocaine, which had caused many deaths among older Black men, Humphreys said.

“This likely includes some long-term cocaine users who had the bad luck to get cocaine that had fentanyl in it,” Humphreys said in an interview. White women are more likely to overdose on prescription drugs in order to commit suicide, a trend that would be less likely to be affected by fentanyl supply, he added.

Humphreys and a team of other researchers, in a Science magazine report published in January, found a “drought” of fentanyl that could be traced on the social media platform Reddit.

Elevated mentions of a “drought” started in May 2023, nearly the same time as overdoses began to drop, their research found. Also, the Drug Enforcement Administration reported decreasing potency in seized fentanyl and fewer seizures, both indicating a shortage of supply.

“Drug dealers often adapt to supply shortages by lowering purity more than raising prices,” the report stated. The likely reason: China cracked down on source chemicals for making illicit fentanyl. Such “precursor” chemicals typically arrive from China and are processed in Mexico before being smuggled into the U.S. as illicit fentanyl.

“Actions by the government of China that resulted in greater scrutiny of production and export of precursor chemicals, including the removal of online advertisements and several marketplaces,” may have been what caused the drought in fentanyl and thus saved lives, the report concluded.

The DEA concluded that Mexican fentanyl producers were cutting potency because they were having a hard time finding source chemicals from China, the report noted. That makes it likely supply is the biggest reason for the drop in deaths, not enhanced U.S. border searches or other actions such as the Trump administration’s attacks on drug boats off the South American coast. Those boats are typically used to transport cocaine rather than fentanyl.

Data shows a similar drop in overdose deaths in Canada, where fentanyl supplies are usually produced from Chinese chemicals inside the country rather than smuggled in. That’s another reason to suspect that China’s crackdown affected both countries, despite differing policies and law enforcement strategies.

In their Science article, Humphreys and the other researchers noted that the recent decline in deaths offers the chance to prepare for future opioid-related problems.

“The incentive to restore the fentanyl trade will persist as long as there is demand for the drug,” the authors wrote. “It may be wise to use the current drought as an opportunity to ramp up the prevention and treatment programs that have evidence of decreasing demand.”

There have been some more recent upticks in death numbers.

Colorado saw an increase in synthetic opioid overdose deaths starting in late 2024, according to a Common Sense Institute report released this month. The institute is nonpartisan but has ties to the Republican Party, and concluded the state needs stiffer penalties for fentanyl possession and distribution, similar to Texas law. Opioid overdose deaths in Colorado are down 9% since the national peak in 2023, according to the Stateline analysis.

In Ohio, the recent trend among people who use fentanyl is to find pills spiked with an animal tranquilizer that causes severe addiction, said Beckman, of the Hamilton County Quick Response Team. Three recent clients survived overdoses but required emergency treatment, she said.

“We can educate people in the community: ‘Hey, your drugs are not what you thought they were, that’s why you’re experiencing all these weird side effects,’” Beckman said. “These substances are so severe that a traditional detox hasn’t been able to handle them.”

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network that includes Indiana Capital Chronicle, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

The post Drop in opioid overdose deaths nears 50% since 2023 appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-23-085308.png Overdose victim in Marshall County revived, but faces charges https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/overdose-victim-in-marshall-county-revived-but-faces-charges/ Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:50:08 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=126558 News Release

LAPAZ — Emergency responders were able to resuscitate an overdose victim Thursday night in Lapaz.

Emergency responders were alerted to a parking lot with a driver unresponsive, with the vehicle still in drive.

A 40-year-old man, Jonathon P. Dalton, showed signs of a possible overdose, so a window on the vehicle was broken to gain access to assist the driver. 

An officer administered a dose of Narcan, which was followed by a second dose from Lapaz Fire. 

Dalton began to breathe and gained consciousness. 

He was transported to Bremen Hospital, where he was found to have suspected fentanyl hidden in his possession. 

Once released, he was transported to the Marshall County Jail.

 

The post Overdose victim in Marshall County revived, but faces charges appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release

LAPAZ — Emergency responders were able to resuscitate an overdose victim Thursday night in Lapaz.

Emergency responders were alerted to a parking lot with a driver unresponsive, with the vehicle still in drive.

A 40-year-old man, Jonathon P. Dalton, showed signs of a possible overdose, so a window on the vehicle was broken to gain access to assist the driver. 

An officer administered a dose of Narcan, which was followed by a second dose from Lapaz Fire. 

Dalton began to breathe and gained consciousness. 

He was transported to Bremen Hospital, where he was found to have suspected fentanyl hidden in his possession. 

Once released, he was transported to the Marshall County Jail.

 

The post Overdose victim in Marshall County revived, but faces charges appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sirens-fea.jpg Two in Leesburg arrested after infant nearly overdoses on fentanyl https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/two-in-leesburg-arrested-after-infant-nearly-overdoses-on-fentanyl/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:16:07 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=122828 By David Slone
Times-Union

LEESBURG - An infant found to have fentanyl in its system led to the arrest of two Leesburg residents.

Icy Mae Nine, 21, and Jacob Lee Watkins, 20, both of 14 EMS B6A Lane, Leesburg, are each facing charges of possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony; unlawful possession of a syringe, a level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance - controlled substance, a level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, introducing a controlled substance into the body, a misdemeanor.

Wakins and Nine were arrested but were released on bond.

On Oct. 20 at 5:44 p.m., Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department officer Logan Pitts responded to an unresponsive 9-month-old girl at 14 EMS B6A Lane. Upon arrival, Pitts identified the child, who was conscious and breathing, according to the probable cause affidavit.

Later, at 6:42 p.m., Pitts was told by North Webster EMS they believed the infant had overdosed on fentanyl, a narcotic drug. They also advised that while the girl was in their care, they had to use Narcan on her twice. Narcan is a drug used to counteract the effects of a narcotic drug.

Pitts spoke to a woman, who said she took the infant and another child to 14 EMS B6A for a birthday party. She said the homeowner, Jason Myers, had retrieved some colored pens from Jessica Myers’ bedroom for the children to use. The woman said she then saw that the 9-month-old had been given one of the pens and immediately went to take it away. After taking away the pen, she saw the girl become extremely tired and appeared to have labored breathing consistent with an overdose she had witnessed in the past, the affidavit states. The woman said she called 911 and they began CPR on the infant.

The infant was taken to the hospital, where she tested positive for fentanyl.

Pitts told North Webster Police Department to go to the residence on EMS B6A and secure it. Pitts also contacted the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). Officers arrived at the residence and heard people running around inside the home and believed they may be destroying evidence, the affidavit states, and officers entered to secure it.

Officers found Watkins and Nine in a bedroom and detained them to preserve evidence. Pitts also contacted NET 43 officer Tony Schmucker.

Schmucker spoke with officers who said they had observed the homeowners, Jason and Jessica Myers, entering and exiting the home several times and leaving. Officers found that when Jason and Jessica found that officers were going back to their residence, they contacted Watkins and Nine and told them not to answer the door and to hide, according to the affidavit.

Schmucker obtained a search warrant for the Myers, Watkins and Nine residence and the two vehicles in the driveway.

Schmucker served the search warrant and found a list of drug-related items in the living room, in the Myers’ bedroom, in the bedroom where Watkins and Nine were found and in the bathroom. Among those items were 25 to 30 syringes, all used, many uncapped, several uncapped on the floor in the bedroom where Watkins and Nine were found. There were 15 to 20 syringes, many of which were used, in the Myers’ bedroom.

After the home was searched, DCS arrived and took custody of two other children.
Schmucker searched Watkins’ phone and found evidence of drug conversations between him and Jessica Myers and him and Jason Myers.

Pitts spoke with one of the children, who said that she slept in the Myers’ bedroom, where the syringes and spoons that tested positive for fentanyl were found.

The post Two in Leesburg arrested after infant nearly overdoses on fentanyl appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By David Slone
Times-Union

LEESBURG – An infant found to have fentanyl in its system led to the arrest of two Leesburg residents.

Icy Mae Nine, 21, and Jacob Lee Watkins, 20, both of 14 EMS B6A Lane, Leesburg, are each facing charges of possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony; unlawful possession of a syringe, a level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substance, a level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, introducing a controlled substance into the body, a misdemeanor.

Wakins and Nine were arrested but were released on bond.

On Oct. 20 at 5:44 p.m., Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department officer Logan Pitts responded to an unresponsive 9-month-old girl at 14 EMS B6A Lane. Upon arrival, Pitts identified the child, who was conscious and breathing, according to the probable cause affidavit.

Later, at 6:42 p.m., Pitts was told by North Webster EMS they believed the infant had overdosed on fentanyl, a narcotic drug. They also advised that while the girl was in their care, they had to use Narcan on her twice. Narcan is a drug used to counteract the effects of a narcotic drug.

Pitts spoke to a woman, who said she took the infant and another child to 14 EMS B6A for a birthday party. She said the homeowner, Jason Myers, had retrieved some colored pens from Jessica Myers’ bedroom for the children to use. The woman said she then saw that the 9-month-old had been given one of the pens and immediately went to take it away. After taking away the pen, she saw the girl become extremely tired and appeared to have labored breathing consistent with an overdose she had witnessed in the past, the affidavit states. The woman said she called 911 and they began CPR on the infant.

The infant was taken to the hospital, where she tested positive for fentanyl.

Pitts told North Webster Police Department to go to the residence on EMS B6A and secure it. Pitts also contacted the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). Officers arrived at the residence and heard people running around inside the home and believed they may be destroying evidence, the affidavit states, and officers entered to secure it.

Officers found Watkins and Nine in a bedroom and detained them to preserve evidence. Pitts also contacted NET 43 officer Tony Schmucker.

Schmucker spoke with officers who said they had observed the homeowners, Jason and Jessica Myers, entering and exiting the home several times and leaving. Officers found that when Jason and Jessica found that officers were going back to their residence, they contacted Watkins and Nine and told them not to answer the door and to hide, according to the affidavit.

Schmucker obtained a search warrant for the Myers, Watkins and Nine residence and the two vehicles in the driveway.

Schmucker served the search warrant and found a list of drug-related items in the living room, in the Myers’ bedroom, in the bedroom where Watkins and Nine were found and in the bathroom. Among those items were 25 to 30 syringes, all used, many uncapped, several uncapped on the floor in the bedroom where Watkins and Nine were found. There were 15 to 20 syringes, many of which were used, in the Myers’ bedroom.

After the home was searched, DCS arrived and took custody of two other children.
Schmucker searched Watkins’ phone and found evidence of drug conversations between him and Jessica Myers and him and Jason Myers.

Pitts spoke with one of the children, who said that she slept in the Myers’ bedroom, where the syringes and spoons that tested positive for fentanyl were found.

The post Two in Leesburg arrested after infant nearly overdoses on fentanyl appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Untitled-design-2025-11-13T061314.664.png Five-day sweep nets 14 on drug charges; 10 more sought on warrants https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/five-day-sweep-nets-14-on-drug-charges-10-more-sought-on-warrants/ Thu, 20 Mar 2025 21:26:08 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=107079
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Several months of covert surveillance and undercover operations led to the arrest of 14 people and the issuance of warrants on ten more individuals on drug-related charges.

Arrests were made over a five-day period beginning March 15 by the Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team known as NET43, according to a news release from the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Office.

The warrant blitz was the culmination of efforts by officers from multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the county. 

A large majority of all 24 suspects are facing charges involving methamphetamine, fentanyl or cocaine.

The following people were arrested:

Matthew Manges, 39, of Syracuse

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $30,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $32,500.00, 10% cash

 

Matthew B Manges Age 39, Syracuse, IN

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession of Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Cary Duane Walls, 51, Etna Green

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 Felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony;

Count VI: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $1,000.00 cash or $35,000.00 10% cash

 

Cory Eugene Iden, 41, of Syracuse

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $27,500.00 10% cash

 

Christian Michael McQuade, 31, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $27,500.00 10% cash

 

Tyler James Hanish, 32, of Claypool

Count I: Dealing in a Fentanyl Containing Substance More Than One

(1) gram Enhancing Circumstances, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession of A Narcotic Drug Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 felony

Count III: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Jaimee Nichole Marshall, 29, of Burket

Count I: Possession of Syringe, Level 6 Felony

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Robin Michelle Smith, 40 of Warsaw

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Timothy Alan Elliott, 40, of North Webster

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Aaron Charles McDaniel, 53 of North Webster

Count I: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count III: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count IV: Possession Marijuana, Sentence Enhancement, Level 6

Felony

 

Kristi Kay Loftis , 46, of North Webster

Count I: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count III: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Amanda Joy Justice, 42, of Kewanna

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Tabitha Marie Cartwright, 32, of North Webster

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 5 felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Hayle Doty, 36, of Syracuse

Count I: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession Syringe, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Counterfeiting, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Resisting Law Enforcement, Class A Misdemeanor

Count VI: Possession of Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count VII: Possession of methamphetamine Enhancing

Circumstances, Level 5 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Katrina Sue Obrien, 24 of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing in a Fentanyl Containing Substance More Than One

(1) gram, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Bond: $15,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Warrants were issued for the following people

If you know the location of any of the individuals, please notify your local law enforcement agency or contact the NET 43 tip line at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

Brandon Lewis Jones, 35, of Columbia City

Count I: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count III: Visiting a Common Nuisance, Class B Misdemeanor

Bond: $500.00 Cash Bond

 

Matthew John Milton, 28, of Nappanee

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Abigail Lee Pifer, 48, of Warsaw

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $10,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $12,500.00 10% cash

 

Lydon John Smith, 39, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Cory Andrew Walton, 31, of Columbia City

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $15,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Jason A. Waikel, 46, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession of Cocaine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession of Syringe, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Marcus Brent Lemaster, 53, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Morgan A. Noe, 34, of North Webster

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $ 7,500.00 10% cash

Douglas Patrick Watkins, Age 45, North Webster

Count I: Dealing a Narcotic Drug, Level 5 Felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 5 felony

Count III: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Hailey K Templeton: 41, of Winona Lake

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 felony

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

The post Five-day sweep nets 14 on drug charges; 10 more sought on warrants appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]>
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Several months of covert surveillance and undercover operations led to the arrest of 14 people and the issuance of warrants on ten more individuals on drug-related charges.

Arrests were made over a five-day period beginning March 15 by the Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team known as NET43, according to a news release from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office.

The warrant blitz was the culmination of efforts by officers from multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the county. 

A large majority of all 24 suspects are facing charges involving methamphetamine, fentanyl or cocaine.

The following people were arrested:

Matthew Manges, 39, of Syracuse

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $30,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $32,500.00, 10% cash

 

Matthew B Manges Age 39, Syracuse, IN

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession of Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Cary Duane Walls, 51, Etna Green

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 Felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony;

Count VI: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $1,000.00 cash or $35,000.00 10% cash

 

Cory Eugene Iden, 41, of Syracuse

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $27,500.00 10% cash

 

Christian Michael McQuade, 31, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $27,500.00 10% cash

 

Tyler James Hanish, 32, of Claypool

Count I: Dealing in a Fentanyl Containing Substance More Than One

(1) gram Enhancing Circumstances, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession of A Narcotic Drug Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 felony

Count III: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Jaimee Nichole Marshall, 29, of Burket

Count I: Possession of Syringe, Level 6 Felony

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Robin Michelle Smith, 40 of Warsaw

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Timothy Alan Elliott, 40, of North Webster

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Aaron Charles McDaniel, 53 of North Webster

Count I: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count III: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count IV: Possession Marijuana, Sentence Enhancement, Level 6

Felony

 

Kristi Kay Loftis , 46, of North Webster

Count I: Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count III: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

 

Amanda Joy Justice, 42, of Kewanna

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Tabitha Marie Cartwright, 32, of North Webster

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 5 felony

Count III: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Hayle Doty, 36, of Syracuse

Count I: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession Syringe, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Counterfeiting, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Resisting Law Enforcement, Class A Misdemeanor

Count VI: Possession of Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count VII: Possession of methamphetamine Enhancing

Circumstances, Level 5 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Katrina Sue Obrien, 24 of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing in a Fentanyl Containing Substance More Than One

(1) gram, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Bond: $15,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Warrants were issued for the following people

If you know the location of any of the individuals, please notify your local law enforcement agency or contact the NET 43 tip line at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

Brandon Lewis Jones, 35, of Columbia City

Count I: Possession of Marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Count III: Visiting a Common Nuisance, Class B Misdemeanor

Bond: $500.00 Cash Bond

 

Matthew John Milton, 28, of Nappanee

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 2 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 4 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $22,500.00 10% cash

 

Abigail Lee Pifer, 48, of Warsaw

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $10,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $12,500.00 10% cash

 

Lydon John Smith, 39, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 5 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Cory Andrew Walton, 31, of Columbia City

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $15,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Jason A. Waikel, 46, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 2 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count III: Possession of Cocaine, Level 6 Felony

Count IV: Possession of Syringe, Level 6 Felony

Count V: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: $25,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Marcus Brent Lemaster, 53, of Warsaw

Count I: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 4 felony

Count II: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony

Count III: Dealing Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 3 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine Enhancing Circumstances,

Level 5 Felony

Bond: $20,000.00 surety + $250.00 cash or N/A 10% cash

 

Morgan A. Noe, 34, of North Webster

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Count II: Possession Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $ 7,500.00 10% cash

Douglas Patrick Watkins, Age 45, North Webster

Count I: Dealing a Narcotic Drug, Level 5 Felony

Count II: Dealing Methamphetamine, Level 5 felony

Count III: Possession of A Narcotic Drug, Level 6 felony

Count IV: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 4 Felony

Bond: N/A surety N/A cash or $17,500.00 10% cash

 

Hailey K Templeton: 41, of Winona Lake

Count I: Possession Methamphetamine, Level 6 felony

Bond: N/A surety + N/A cash or $7,500.00 10% cash

The post Five-day sweep nets 14 on drug charges; 10 more sought on warrants appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/sirens-fea.jpg Bruner tells police she could sell a pound of meth in a day https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/bruner-tells-police-she-could-sell-a-pound-of-meth-in-a-day/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:10:10 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=104462 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — The first instinct of The 35-year-old woman arrested last week and caught in possession of large amounts of meth, fentanyl and cocaine was to flee.

But soon after her arrest, Erika Bruner began talking with investigators about her business practices.

Bruner fled police after an attempted traffic stop on Jan. 17 for disregarding a stop sign. As she drove away, Bruner threw two black bags and a drink from her SUV. After a short chase, she eventually pulled over on Backwater Road south of North Webster and was apprehended.

Soon after, though, her outlook changed and she made some eye-popping admissions to police, according to court documents.

She told investigators that she would acquire a pound of methamphetamine and sell it in Kosciusko County in one day.

The Warsaw woman admitted she sold large quantities of methamphetamine fentanyl, cocaine and marijuana. She said the last time she obtained meth on Jan. 5 she sold it to six people.

The bust involved the seizure of 2.9 pounds of meth, 20 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, as well as LSD, Xanax, five firearms and a drone used to deliver drugs.

Court paperwork did not refer to the use of the drone.

Contents of the two black bags included drugs and an unloaded handgun, court records said.

Bruner said she decided to end the police chase after talking with her boyfriend on a cell phone while driving.

The investigation began as a result of tips from concerned residents.

Bruner, who has a criminal record involving drugs and at least one gun conviction, is facing a large number of charges in both Kosciusko and Elkhart counties.

The post Bruner tells police she could sell a pound of meth in a day appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — The first instinct of The 35-year-old woman arrested last week and caught in possession of large amounts of meth, fentanyl and cocaine was to flee.

But soon after her arrest, Erika Bruner began talking with investigators about her business practices.

Bruner fled police after an attempted traffic stop on Jan. 17 for disregarding a stop sign. As she drove away, Bruner threw two black bags and a drink from her SUV. After a short chase, she eventually pulled over on Backwater Road south of North Webster and was apprehended.

Soon after, though, her outlook changed and she made some eye-popping admissions to police, according to court documents.

She told investigators that she would acquire a pound of methamphetamine and sell it in Kosciusko County in one day.

The Warsaw woman admitted she sold large quantities of methamphetamine fentanyl, cocaine and marijuana. She said the last time she obtained meth on Jan. 5 she sold it to six people.

The bust involved the seizure of 2.9 pounds of meth, 20 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, as well as LSD, Xanax, five firearms and a drone used to deliver drugs.

Court paperwork did not refer to the use of the drone.

Contents of the two black bags included drugs and an unloaded handgun, court records said.

Bruner said she decided to end the police chase after talking with her boyfriend on a cell phone while driving.

The investigation began as a result of tips from concerned residents.

Bruner, who has a criminal record involving drugs and at least one gun conviction, is facing a large number of charges in both Kosciusko and Elkhart counties.

The post Bruner tells police she could sell a pound of meth in a day appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Erica-Bruner-1.png Large amounts of meth, fentanyl and cocaine found in Warsaw drug bust https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/large-amounts-of-meth-fentanyl-and-cocaine-found-in-warsaw-drug-bust/ Fri, 24 Jan 2025 12:27:04 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=104281 News Release

[caption id="attachment_104285" align="alignright" width="223"] Erica J. Bruner[/caption]

WARSAW — Tips from residents led to a large drug bust and the arrest of a Warsaw woman after the discovery of three pounds of methamphetamine.

The bust involved the seizure of 2.9 pounds of methamphetamine, 20 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, as well as LSD, Xanax five firearms and a drone used to deliver drugs.

The investigation culminated a week ago when NET43, Indiana State Police and Nappanee Police officers arrested 35-year-old Erica J. Bruner who is currently held in the Elkhart County Jail with a $90,000.00 surety bond.

Bruner is facing a large number of charges filed in both Elkhart and Kosciusko counties.

The post Large amounts of meth, fentanyl and cocaine found in Warsaw drug bust appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release
Erica J. Bruner

WARSAW — Tips from residents led to a large drug bust and the arrest of a Warsaw woman after the discovery of three pounds of methamphetamine.

The bust involved the seizure of 2.9 pounds of methamphetamine, 20 grams of fentanyl, 27 grams of cocaine, as well as LSD, Xanax five firearms and a drone used to deliver drugs.

The investigation culminated a week ago when NET43, Indiana State Police and Nappanee Police officers arrested 35-year-old Erica J. Bruner who is currently held in the Elkhart County Jail with a $90,000.00 surety bond.

Bruner is facing a large number of charges filed in both Elkhart and Kosciusko counties.

The post Large amounts of meth, fentanyl and cocaine found in Warsaw drug bust appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-24-071316.png Alleged selller of pills arrested over 2023 overdose death https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/alleged-selller-of-pills-arrested-over-2023-overdose-death/ Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:40:41 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=103416  

By Jackie Gorski
Times-Union

WARSAW — A Pierceton man was arrested after allegedly dealing drugs to someone who died in 2023.

Jacob John Schlichter, 30, of 926 N. CR 900E, Pierceton, is charged with dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony. He was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail at 10:05 p.m. Thursday on a $10,250 preliminary bond.

According to the probable cause affidavit, on May 11, 2023, the Warsaw Police Department and NET43 Drug Task Force responded to a subject not breathing at a Warsaw residence.

Medics arrived at the scene and, after attempting to administer medical assistance, the man was pronounced dead. It was believed the man overdosed on drugs.

A NET43 officer spoke with the victim’s girlfriend. She said the victim told her he had bought narcotic pills and took one. She didn’t know where the victim got the pills but believed someone had dropped the pills off while he was at work. She said she and the victim arrived at home around 5:30 a.m. May 11, 2023.

The victim gave the girlfriend a pill and she took it and the victim took another one around 6:30 a.m.

On May 12, 2023, a postmortem examination was conducted on the victim and the manner of death was found to be an accident and the cause of death was Fentanyl toxicity.

A NET43 commander spoke with a man who said he and the victim worked together and the victim offered the co-worker some pills. The co-worker knew the victim was going to get high because he was having issues with his girlfriend. The man knew the victim had been off drugs for two years. While they were sitting at work, the victim used Facebook Messenger to contact his alleged dealer, Schlichter, to get some pills.

The co-worker also said the victim went out to his car and a pickup pulled up and the victim ran over to the vehicle and came back with four pills. The co-worker said the victim thought the pills were oxycodone and not fentanyl.

On Dec. 6, 2023, a NET43 officer and commander went to Schlichter’s residence and saw a gray pickup truck parked in the front yard registered to Schlichter, but Schlichter wasn’t home.

On Dec. 19, 2023, the officer and commander spoke with the girlfriend, who said on the night of May 10, 2023, she thought something was wrong with the victim. The victim later said he was high.

She said believed the victim used her phone to sign in to his Facebook account. When the girlfriend received a Facebook phone call from Schlichter, she asked the victim about it.

The victim said he was unaware why Schlichter called. She attempted to find out where the victim got the drugs from, but the victim would not tell her, according to court documents.

On Jan. 24, 2024, officers spoke again with the co-worker. He said he asked the victim about the pills’ cost and was told $10 per pill. The co-worker said he questioned the victim about the price since they were usually priced at $25 to $30 a pill.

The victim said his friend was coming from Columbia City and would be at their place of work soon.

On Jan. 30, 2024, officers spoke with a man who went to Schlichter’s home on May 11, 2023.

He said Schlichter was emotional and told him his best friend died. Schlichter said he saw the victim the day he died and was worried because he gave the victim drugs. Schlichter said he thought the drugs were opiates, according to court documents.

Officers spoke with Schlichter on Jan. 31, 2024. Schlichter said he sold the victim five fentanyl pills in exchange for $50, according to court documents.

The post Alleged selller of pills arrested over 2023 overdose death appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]>  

By Jackie Gorski
Times-Union

WARSAW — A Pierceton man was arrested after allegedly dealing drugs to someone who died in 2023.

Jacob John Schlichter, 30, of 926 N. CR 900E, Pierceton, is charged with dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony. He was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail at 10:05 p.m. Thursday on a $10,250 preliminary bond.

According to the probable cause affidavit, on May 11, 2023, the Warsaw Police Department and NET43 Drug Task Force responded to a subject not breathing at a Warsaw residence.

Medics arrived at the scene and, after attempting to administer medical assistance, the man was pronounced dead. It was believed the man overdosed on drugs.

A NET43 officer spoke with the victim’s girlfriend. She said the victim told her he had bought narcotic pills and took one. She didn’t know where the victim got the pills but believed someone had dropped the pills off while he was at work. She said she and the victim arrived at home around 5:30 a.m. May 11, 2023.

The victim gave the girlfriend a pill and she took it and the victim took another one around 6:30 a.m.

On May 12, 2023, a postmortem examination was conducted on the victim and the manner of death was found to be an accident and the cause of death was Fentanyl toxicity.

A NET43 commander spoke with a man who said he and the victim worked together and the victim offered the co-worker some pills. The co-worker knew the victim was going to get high because he was having issues with his girlfriend. The man knew the victim had been off drugs for two years. While they were sitting at work, the victim used Facebook Messenger to contact his alleged dealer, Schlichter, to get some pills.

The co-worker also said the victim went out to his car and a pickup pulled up and the victim ran over to the vehicle and came back with four pills. The co-worker said the victim thought the pills were oxycodone and not fentanyl.

On Dec. 6, 2023, a NET43 officer and commander went to Schlichter’s residence and saw a gray pickup truck parked in the front yard registered to Schlichter, but Schlichter wasn’t home.

On Dec. 19, 2023, the officer and commander spoke with the girlfriend, who said on the night of May 10, 2023, she thought something was wrong with the victim. The victim later said he was high.

She said believed the victim used her phone to sign in to his Facebook account. When the girlfriend received a Facebook phone call from Schlichter, she asked the victim about it.

The victim said he was unaware why Schlichter called. She attempted to find out where the victim got the drugs from, but the victim would not tell her, according to court documents.

On Jan. 24, 2024, officers spoke again with the co-worker. He said he asked the victim about the pills’ cost and was told $10 per pill. The co-worker said he questioned the victim about the price since they were usually priced at $25 to $30 a pill.

The victim said his friend was coming from Columbia City and would be at their place of work soon.

On Jan. 30, 2024, officers spoke with a man who went to Schlichter’s home on May 11, 2023.

He said Schlichter was emotional and told him his best friend died. Schlichter said he saw the victim the day he died and was worried because he gave the victim drugs. Schlichter said he thought the drugs were opiates, according to court documents.

Officers spoke with Schlichter on Jan. 31, 2024. Schlichter said he sold the victim five fentanyl pills in exchange for $50, according to court documents.

The post Alleged selller of pills arrested over 2023 overdose death appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/sirens-fea.jpg Overdose deaths in Kosciusko County cut significantly in 2024 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/overdose-deaths-in-kosciusko-county-cut-significantly-in-2024/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 21:27:23 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=103164 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

[caption id="attachment_103190" align="alignright" width="360"] The Kosciusko County Coroner's sign on Lake Street in Warsaw was recently updated to reflect the year-to-date number of deaths recorded in the county. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.[/caption]

WARSAW — The number of overdose deaths in Kosciusko County has fallen significantly over the past year.

A final 2024 tally is not yet complete, but as of last week, the number of overdose deaths recorded in the county stood at 9, according to a sign updated outside of the county coroner’s office that keeps a running total.

That’s less than half the number recorded in 2023.

[caption id="attachment_103170" align="alignright" width="360"] Kosciusko County Coroner Tyler Huffer began posting the number of overdose deaths in the county in September of 2023 when this photo was taken. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.[/caption]

County coroner Tyler Huffer was not immediately available, but two officials familiar with the issue talked to News Now Warsaw about the apparent trend, which is also being seen nationally.

"Nine is too many. One would be too many. Any lives lost are too many, but it's been great to see that number continue to go down, said Heidi Blake, coordinator for Kosciusko Coalition on Drug Education (K-CODE).

She and Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith both credit the reduction in deaths to the increased use of Narcan (generic name is Naloxone), which is used to reverse the effects if applied promptly when somebody overdoses.

Blake said she carries Narcan with her in case she runs into a situation where it could be used.

"Unfortunately, some people still believe it's enabling individuals or that individuals should not have access to Narcan for free, but again, we know it's saving lives in our community," Blake said.

Smith also acknowledged the role Naracan is having in the community and said drugs like fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine remain available in the area.

Both Blake and Smith said they believe an array of community programs are also having a role in reducing the number of deaths.

"These folks that have decided to change their ways, I'm confident in telling you all they have to do is say the words and there'd be somebody there to help," Smith said.

Narcan can be purchased in local pharmacies but is also available in several other locations such as Bowen Health.

You can learn more about Nalaxon at this website, which includes a map that pinpoints locations where the overdose-reversing drug can be found.

According to the Indiana Overdose Dashboard, the number of overdose deaths in Kosciusko County has been above 20 since 2021.

More than 100,000 people have been dying annually from drug overdoses, and 75% of those deaths involve opioids (including highly potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl, often in combination with other drugs like stimulants), according to the National Institutes of Health.

Synthetic opioids such as fentanyl flooded the illicit market and became the leading cause of overdose deaths beginning in 2016, the NIH website said.

 

The post Overdose deaths in Kosciusko County cut significantly in 2024 appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw
The Kosciusko County Coroner’s sign on Lake Street in Warsaw was recently updated to reflect the year-to-date number of deaths recorded in the county. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.

WARSAW — The number of overdose deaths in Kosciusko County has fallen significantly over the past year.

A final 2024 tally is not yet complete, but as of last week, the number of overdose deaths recorded in the county stood at 9, according to a sign updated outside of the county coroner’s office that keeps a running total.

That’s less than half the number recorded in 2023.

Kosciusko County Coroner Tyler Huffer began posting the number of overdose deaths in the county in September of 2023 when this photo was taken. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.

County coroner Tyler Huffer was not immediately available, but two officials familiar with the issue talked to News Now Warsaw about the apparent trend, which is also being seen nationally.

“Nine is too many. One would be too many. Any lives lost are too many, but it’s been great to see that number continue to go down, said Heidi Blake, coordinator for Kosciusko Coalition on Drug Education (K-CODE).

She and Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith both credit the reduction in deaths to the increased use of Narcan (generic name is Naloxone), which is used to reverse the effects if applied promptly when somebody overdoses.

Blake said she carries Narcan with her in case she runs into a situation where it could be used.

“Unfortunately, some people still believe it’s enabling individuals or that individuals should not have access to Narcan for free, but again, we know it’s saving lives in our community,” Blake said.

Smith also acknowledged the role Naracan is having in the community and said drugs like fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine remain available in the area.

Both Blake and Smith said they believe an array of community programs are also having a role in reducing the number of deaths.

“These folks that have decided to change their ways, I’m confident in telling you all they have to do is say the words and there’d be somebody there to help,” Smith said.

Narcan can be purchased in local pharmacies but is also available in several other locations such as Bowen Health.

You can learn more about Nalaxon at this website, which includes a map that pinpoints locations where the overdose-reversing drug can be found.

According to the Indiana Overdose Dashboard, the number of overdose deaths in Kosciusko County has been above 20 since 2021.

More than 100,000 people have been dying annually from drug overdoses, and 75% of those deaths involve opioids (including highly potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl, often in combination with other drugs like stimulants), according to the National Institutes of Health.

Synthetic opioids such as fentanyl flooded the illicit market and became the leading cause of overdose deaths beginning in 2016, the NIH website said.

 

The post Overdose deaths in Kosciusko County cut significantly in 2024 appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Untitled-design-2024-12-30T102524.713.png Claypool man arrested in Net43 fentanyl bust https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/claypool-man-arrested-in-net43-fentanyl-bust/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 21:03:56 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=101380 News Release

WARSAW — Local residents provided several drug tips to the Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET43) that led to an investigation regarding illegal drug activity in the Beaver Dam area in southwestern Kosciusko County.

[caption id="attachment_101387" align="alignright" width="213"] Hanish[/caption]

On Wednesday, NET 43 officers and the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group (SOG) executed a search warrant for items associated with dealing illegal drugs at 9505 South CR 750W, Claypool.

Law enforcement also served an arrest warrant on 32-year-old Tyler J. Hanish for dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance, a Level 2 Felony, according to a news release from the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Office.

NET 43 undercover operations purchased fentanyl from Hanish on three separate occasions over several months. The undercover operation netted approximately 15.71 grams of fentanyl, one pound of marijuana, mushrooms, an AR-15 rifle, two handguns, pills, and drug paraphernalia.

The Drug Enforcement Administration reported that .002 grams of fentanyl was a potentially lethal dose. The 15.71 grams of fentanyl netted by NET43 had the potential to cause 7,855 deaths.

Hanish is charged with dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance, Level 2 felony, and three counts of possession of a narcotic drug, Level 6 felony.

His cash bond was set at $52,500.

Additional charges resulting from the search warrant included dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance with enhancing circumstances, level 2 felony; possession of a narcotic drug with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

NET43 is a collaborative law enforcement unit, consisting of officers from the Kosciusko County Prosecutors Office, Warsaw Police Department, Indiana State Police, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Winona Lake Police Department, and the Nappanee Police Department, that remains dedicated to the citizens of Kosciusko County.

NET43 provides integral investigations and enforcement of Indiana’s drug laws. The investigators of NET43 would like to remind the residents of Kosciusko County and surrounding areas they can provide drug tip information by emailing NET43@kosciusko.in.gov or calling the NET43 tip line at 574-372-2494.

 

The post Claypool man arrested in Net43 fentanyl bust appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release

WARSAW — Local residents provided several drug tips to the Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET43) that led to an investigation regarding illegal drug activity in the Beaver Dam area in southwestern Kosciusko County.

Hanish

On Wednesday, NET 43 officers and the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group (SOG) executed a search warrant for items associated with dealing illegal drugs at 9505 South CR 750W, Claypool.

Law enforcement also served an arrest warrant on 32-year-old Tyler J. Hanish for dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance, a Level 2 Felony, according to a news release from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office.

NET 43 undercover operations purchased fentanyl from Hanish on three separate occasions over several months. The undercover operation netted approximately 15.71 grams of fentanyl, one pound of marijuana, mushrooms, an AR-15 rifle, two handguns, pills, and drug paraphernalia.

The Drug Enforcement Administration reported that .002 grams of fentanyl was a potentially lethal dose. The 15.71 grams of fentanyl netted by NET43 had the potential to cause 7,855 deaths.

Hanish is charged with dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance, Level 2 felony, and three counts of possession of a narcotic drug, Level 6 felony.

His cash bond was set at $52,500.

Additional charges resulting from the search warrant included dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance with enhancing circumstances, level 2 felony; possession of a narcotic drug with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

NET43 is a collaborative law enforcement unit, consisting of officers from the Kosciusko County Prosecutors Office, Warsaw Police Department, Indiana State Police, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Winona Lake Police Department, and the Nappanee Police Department, that remains dedicated to the citizens of Kosciusko County.

NET43 provides integral investigations and enforcement of Indiana’s drug laws. The investigators of NET43 would like to remind the residents of Kosciusko County and surrounding areas they can provide drug tip information by emailing NET43@kosciusko.in.gov or calling the NET43 tip line at 574-372-2494.

 

The post Claypool man arrested in Net43 fentanyl bust appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Untitled-design-2024-11-07T154110.919.png Warrant blitz snares 18 while 14 others being sought https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/warrant-blitz-snares-18-while-14-others-being-sought/ Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:09:32 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=100970 News Release

WARSAAW — Eighteen people — many facing drug charges — were arrested early Wednesday morning after Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET 43) and officers from other area police agencies conducted a warrant blitz.

At the same time, warrants have been issued for another 14 area residents.

One of the arrests involves dealing fentanyl and seven others involve methamphetamine.

The blitz, dubbed Operation Pumpkin Patch, came after several months of covert surveillance and undercover operations.

The following people were arrested:

  • Terrell Jujuan Davis, 41, of 806 S. Maple Road, Ann Arbor, Mich., for dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance more than seven 7 grams, a level 2 felony, and possession of a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony. The bond was set at $25,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Brandi Sue Wright Custer, 41, of 5910 S. Woodland Lane, Warsaw, for possession of a narcotic drug, with enhancing circumstances, a level 5 felony; unlawful carrying of a handgun, a level 5 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor. The bond was set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash of $7,000 10% cash bond.
  • Gabriel Fields, 41, of 3441-5 W. Warren Drive, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, and possession of paraphernalia, a Class C misdemeanor. No bond was listed.
  • Jody Sisk, 42, of 1483 N. CR 800W, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor. No bond was listed.
  • James Michael Myers, 19, of 5623 E. CR 250S, Pierceton, for conspiring to commit dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony, and theft, a class A misdemeanor. The bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Danny Lee Prater, 38, of 5097 E. Pierceton Road, Pierceton, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of marijuana with a prior conviction, a class A misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500 10% cash bond.
  • Michael D. Mench, 42, of 2038 N. Oak St., Mentone, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, Class C misdemeanor; and violation of special driving privileges, a class C misdemeanor. The bond set at $25,000 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lance Patrick, 42, of 9902 W. Division Road, lot 92, Pierceton, for probation violation OWI with a prior conviction, a level 6 felony. Bond set at $12,500 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,250).
  • Anthony Vanover, 42, of 7420 N. Blacks Court East, North Webster, for dealing in a narcotic drug, level 5 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; dealing in a narcotic drug, level 5 felony; and possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony. Bond set at $52,000 10% cash bond.
  • Carl David Saint, 46, of 2669 W. CR 700S, A, Claypool, for probation violation OWI, level 6 felony. Bond set at $12,500 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,250).
  • Jason Robert Halfacre, 49, of 204 N. Morgan St., Mentone, for possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor, and possession of marijuana with sentence enhancement, a class A misdemeanor. Cash bond set at $7,500.
  • Steffan Sanfilippo, 54, of 602 S. Union St., Warsaw, for failure to appear, possession of cocaine, level 6 felony. Cash bond set at $1,000.
  • Maureen Allyn Frye, 23, of 1801 Crescent Drive, Warsaw, for dealing methamphetamine, level 4 felony, and possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. Bond set at $15,000 surety and $250 cash or $17,5000 10% cash bond.
  • Jason Anthony Waikel, 45, of 1200 Meadowlark Blvd., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; and possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500 10% cash bond.
  • Justin Cripps, 51, of 1388 E. CR 700S, Claypool, for probation violation, possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Coley Mayersky, 42, of 201 S. Detroit St., apt. 352, Warsaw for probation violation, strangulation, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $15,000 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,500).
  • Carolyn Ousley Flores, 65, of 526 Anchorage Road, apt. 6, Warsaw, for failure to appear, operating a motor vehicle after forfeiture of license for life, a level 5 felony. No bond set.
  • John Michael Arthur, 36, of 6704 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg, for failure to appear, battery. No bond set.

Warrants

Warrants have been issued for the following people. If you know the location of any of the individuals, notify your local law enforcement agency or contact the NET 43 tip line at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

  • Tana Marie Clem, 33, homeless, for dealing in methamphetamine, a level 2 felony; possession of methamphetamine, level 3 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; possession of cocaine, level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, level 6 felony; possession of a narcotic drug with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony; possession of cocaine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $25,000 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lindsay Raye Housman, 37, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of a syringe, level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash or $12,500 10% cash bond.
  • Lindsay Raye Housman, 37, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 5 felony; possession of a syringe, level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, class B misdemeanor; possession of paraphernalia, class C misdemeanor; possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 4 felony; possession of paraphernalia with sentence enhancement, class A misdemeanor. Bond set at $15,000 surety and $250 cash or $17,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Sophia Elizabeth McMillan, 29, of 1307 Oriole Drive, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Erica Jill Weisser, 42, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; possession of a legend drug, level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, class C misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • John Bradley Wood, 30, of 2740 E. Old 30, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, class B misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Jodie Michelle Lantz, 53, of 603 N. Lake St., Warsaw, for dealing in a schedule IV controlled substance, a level 5 felony. Bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash or $12,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Jeremy Flores, 43, of 418 S. Union St., Apt. D, Warsaw, for probation violation, intimidation with a deadly weapon, a level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Gary Gregory, 62, of 4492 N. Sullivan Road, Leesburg, for failure to appear, dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony. No bond listed.
  • Jennifer Yates, 36, of 1293 N. CR 300E, Syracuse, for failure to appear, possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, and failure to appear. No bond set.
  • Heather Traster, 39, of 5903 West Osprey Drive, Mentone, for probation violation, possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $500 cash.
  • Aurelio Tamez, 50, of 615 E. Market St., Warsaw, for theft, a level 6 felony. Bond set at $2,500 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lawrence Cockerell, 36, of 9556 Old 30, Etna Green, for probation violation, possession of methamphetamine, level 5 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Jeremiah Eugene Smith, 38, of 8280 E. U.S. 30, lot 24, Pierceton, for probation violation, theft, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $20,000 surety or 10% cash bond ($2,000).

The news release added, “The defendant’s charge (arrest) is merely an accusation and the defendant are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”

NET 43 is a collaborative law enforcement unit, consisting of officers from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office and Warsaw, Winona Lake, Nappanee, Indiana State, Syracuse, Mentone and Milford police departments.

Anyone with information on suspicious drug activity, drug trafficking, or suspects can contact NET43 at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

 

The post Warrant blitz snares 18 while 14 others being sought appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release

WARSAAW — Eighteen people — many facing drug charges — were arrested early Wednesday morning after Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET 43) and officers from other area police agencies conducted a warrant blitz.

At the same time, warrants have been issued for another 14 area residents.

One of the arrests involves dealing fentanyl and seven others involve methamphetamine.

The blitz, dubbed Operation Pumpkin Patch, came after several months of covert surveillance and undercover operations.

The following people were arrested:

  • Terrell Jujuan Davis, 41, of 806 S. Maple Road, Ann Arbor, Mich., for dealing in a fentanyl-containing substance more than seven 7 grams, a level 2 felony, and possession of a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony. The bond was set at $25,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Brandi Sue Wright Custer, 41, of 5910 S. Woodland Lane, Warsaw, for possession of a narcotic drug, with enhancing circumstances, a level 5 felony; unlawful carrying of a handgun, a level 5 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor. The bond was set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash of $7,000 10% cash bond.
  • Gabriel Fields, 41, of 3441-5 W. Warren Drive, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, and possession of paraphernalia, a Class C misdemeanor. No bond was listed.
  • Jody Sisk, 42, of 1483 N. CR 800W, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor. No bond was listed.
  • James Michael Myers, 19, of 5623 E. CR 250S, Pierceton, for conspiring to commit dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony, and theft, a class A misdemeanor. The bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Danny Lee Prater, 38, of 5097 E. Pierceton Road, Pierceton, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of marijuana with a prior conviction, a class A misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500 10% cash bond.
  • Michael D. Mench, 42, of 2038 N. Oak St., Mentone, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, Class C misdemeanor; and violation of special driving privileges, a class C misdemeanor. The bond set at $25,000 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lance Patrick, 42, of 9902 W. Division Road, lot 92, Pierceton, for probation violation OWI with a prior conviction, a level 6 felony. Bond set at $12,500 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,250).
  • Anthony Vanover, 42, of 7420 N. Blacks Court East, North Webster, for dealing in a narcotic drug, level 5 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; dealing in a narcotic drug, level 5 felony; and possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony. Bond set at $52,000 10% cash bond.
  • Carl David Saint, 46, of 2669 W. CR 700S, A, Claypool, for probation violation OWI, level 6 felony. Bond set at $12,500 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,250).
  • Jason Robert Halfacre, 49, of 204 N. Morgan St., Mentone, for possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor, and possession of marijuana with sentence enhancement, a class A misdemeanor. Cash bond set at $7,500.
  • Steffan Sanfilippo, 54, of 602 S. Union St., Warsaw, for failure to appear, possession of cocaine, level 6 felony. Cash bond set at $1,000.
  • Maureen Allyn Frye, 23, of 1801 Crescent Drive, Warsaw, for dealing methamphetamine, level 4 felony, and possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. Bond set at $15,000 surety and $250 cash or $17,5000 10% cash bond.
  • Jason Anthony Waikel, 45, of 1200 Meadowlark Blvd., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; and possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500 10% cash bond.
  • Justin Cripps, 51, of 1388 E. CR 700S, Claypool, for probation violation, possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Coley Mayersky, 42, of 201 S. Detroit St., apt. 352, Warsaw for probation violation, strangulation, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $15,000 surety or 10% cash bond ($1,500).
  • Carolyn Ousley Flores, 65, of 526 Anchorage Road, apt. 6, Warsaw, for failure to appear, operating a motor vehicle after forfeiture of license for life, a level 5 felony. No bond set.
  • John Michael Arthur, 36, of 6704 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg, for failure to appear, battery. No bond set.

Warrants

Warrants have been issued for the following people. If you know the location of any of the individuals, notify your local law enforcement agency or contact the NET 43 tip line at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

  • Tana Marie Clem, 33, homeless, for dealing in methamphetamine, a level 2 felony; possession of methamphetamine, level 3 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; possession of cocaine, level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, level 6 felony; possession of a narcotic drug with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony; possession of cocaine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $25,000 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lindsay Raye Housman, 37, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; possession of a syringe, level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 5 felony. Bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash or $12,500 10% cash bond.
  • Lindsay Raye Housman, 37, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 5 felony; possession of a syringe, level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, class B misdemeanor; possession of paraphernalia, class C misdemeanor; possession of methamphetamine with enhancing circumstances, level 4 felony; possession of paraphernalia with sentence enhancement, class A misdemeanor. Bond set at $15,000 surety and $250 cash or $17,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Sophia Elizabeth McMillan, 29, of 1307 Oriole Drive, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Erica Jill Weisser, 42, of 228 N. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; possession of a narcotic drug, level 6 felony; possession of a legend drug, level 6 felony; maintaining a common nuisance, level 6 felony; possession of paraphernalia, class C misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • John Bradley Wood, 30, of 2740 E. Old 30, Warsaw, for possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, class B misdemeanor. Bond set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash or $7,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Jodie Michelle Lantz, 53, of 603 N. Lake St., Warsaw, for dealing in a schedule IV controlled substance, a level 5 felony. Bond set at $10,000 surety and $250 cash or $12,500, 10% cash bond.
  • Jeremy Flores, 43, of 418 S. Union St., Apt. D, Warsaw, for probation violation, intimidation with a deadly weapon, a level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Gary Gregory, 62, of 4492 N. Sullivan Road, Leesburg, for failure to appear, dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony. No bond listed.
  • Jennifer Yates, 36, of 1293 N. CR 300E, Syracuse, for failure to appear, possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, and failure to appear. No bond set.
  • Heather Traster, 39, of 5903 West Osprey Drive, Mentone, for probation violation, possession of a narcotic drug, a level 6 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $500 cash.
  • Aurelio Tamez, 50, of 615 E. Market St., Warsaw, for theft, a level 6 felony. Bond set at $2,500 surety and $1,000 cash.
  • Lawrence Cockerell, 36, of 9556 Old 30, Etna Green, for probation violation, possession of methamphetamine, level 5 felony. The bond was set at $5,000 surety and $250 cash.
  • Jeremiah Eugene Smith, 38, of 8280 E. U.S. 30, lot 24, Pierceton, for probation violation, theft, level 6 felony. The bond was set at $20,000 surety or 10% cash bond ($2,000).

The news release added, “The defendant’s charge (arrest) is merely an accusation and the defendant are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”

NET 43 is a collaborative law enforcement unit, consisting of officers from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office and Warsaw, Winona Lake, Nappanee, Indiana State, Syracuse, Mentone and Milford police departments.

Anyone with information on suspicious drug activity, drug trafficking, or suspects can contact NET43 at NET43@kcgov.com or by telephone at 574-372-2494.

 

The post Warrant blitz snares 18 while 14 others being sought appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

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