Gas prices in Indiana are down this week

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have fallen 2.0 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.13/g today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana are 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 6.1 cents per gallon higher than a year ago.

The national average price of diesel has decreased 2.6 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.658 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.65/g yesterday, while the most expensive was $3.89/g, a difference of $1.24/g.
The national average price of gasoline has fallen 3.6 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.12/g today.
“While gas prices fell in more states than they rose last week, the West Coast continues to face challenges, with Oregon and Washington seeing some of the largest increases due to regional infrastructure issues,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “The good news is that the transition to cheaper winter gasoline begins tomorrow across most of the nation, and with improvements underway in the West Coast market, I expect that average gas prices will continue to decline in the weeks ahead in most states— assuming hurricane season remains quiet.”
GasBuddy’s averages, graphs, maps, and historical pricing data covering the U.S. and Canada is available 24/7 at http://prices.GasBuddy.com.

Traffic stop brings arrest

PLYMOUTH — On Sept. 12, at 9:10 p.m., a traffic stop was conducted on a moped that was carrying two passengers.


The driver, identified as Marisa Oviedo, 32, of Plymouth, was found to have a driver’s license status of Habitual Offender.
Oviedo was taken into custody, and that vehicle was impounded. While inventorying the vehicle, a counterfeit $100 bill was located in her purse amongst other money.
Oviedo was transported to the Marshall County Jail, where she was lodged for Habitual Traffic Violator- Level 6 Felony and Forgery- Level 6 Felony.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

See all the area police reports at https://max983.net/police-reports/

Four taken to hospital after crash

ARGOS — On Friday,​ Sept. 12,​ at approximately 6:15 p.m.,​ Marshall County Central Dispatch received a call regarding a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of US 31 and State Road 10.


Argos Police had arrived on scene and advised there were multiple patients with injuries. It was learned that a 2021 Toyota Corolla driven by Joshua Brett,​ of Shoals, Indiana,​ had attempted to cross northbound traffic,​ but ​failed to yield ​to traffic and was struck by a northbound ​2017 Ford F-150,​ driven by Daniel Chamberlin,​ of Plymouth.
There were a total of 3 occupants in the Corolla,​ who were all transported to Memorial Hospital in serious,​ life-threatening condition. The sole occupant of the pickup truck was transported to Plymouth Hospital for additional care. ​
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department was assisted on scene by Argos Police,​ Fire,​ and EMS,​ Plymouth EMS,​ Bourbon EMS,​ Parkview EMS,​ Lutheran Air Ambulance,​ MedFlight Air Ambulance,​ Reichert-Knepp Towing,​ and Lyons Wrecker Service.​

Preston sentenced in intimidation case

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office announced Monday the completion of the prosecution of 35-year-old Sharlotte Ashley Preston, of Plymouth, Indiana.


In September of 2024, Culver officers responded to a threat made to Circuit Court Judge Jeanette Surrisi via Preston’s Facebook account, which included references to violent repercussions Surrisi would face given Surrisi’s rulings on Preston’s child custody proceedings.
On August 6, 2025, Preston was found guilty of Level 5 Intimidation by a jury of twelve Marshall County residents, and on August 29, 2025, was sentenced in Marshall County Superior Court 3 to 90 days in Indiana DOC, 640 days Community Corrections, and 1 year probation.
The investigation was led by Officer Larry Jolley of the Culver Police Department and successfully prosecuted by Chief Deputy Prosecutor Nicholas Langowski and Deputy Prosecutor Ashley Lowe of the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office.

Indiana ICAC Initiative: Operation Guardian Angel

As Hoosier children began returning to school in August 2025, the Indiana State Police, which oversees the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, organized and led a vital new initiative: Operation Guardian Angel.


The primary goal of Operation Guardian Angel was to intensify efforts in areas of proactive investigations, such as peer-to-peer file sharing and undercover (UC) chat investigations. Through these efforts, the Indiana ICAC aimed to identify and locate children who were victims of hands-on sexual abuse, bringing them to safety and holding their abusers accountable.
Beyond these crucial investigative efforts, the Indiana ICAC continued its ongoing commitment to prevention and community outreach. Educating the public about internet safety remains a key part of the ICAC’s mission to protect children in Indiana.
Investigations
Reactive Investigations Resulting from Citizen Complaints or CyberTips: 252
Proactive Investigations: 36
Number of CyberTips Received for August: 2,233
Number of CyberTips Received between January and August 2025: 16,124
Arrests
Total Arrests: 48
Identified as Hands-on Offenders: 14
Number of Arrestees who were also a Registered Sex Offender: 6
Child Victims Identified
Children Rescued from On-going Abuse: 14
*Newly Identified Children with Images: 31
**Newly Identified Children without Images: 26
Prevention Activities
Number of Presentations: 86
Estimated number of attendees: 8,546
For more information about the Indiana ICAC, please visit
https://www.internetcrimesagainstkids.com

*Newly identified child victim is a victim whose identity was not previously known to law enforcement or NCMEC, but now is known as a result of an investigation. These children are the newly identified child victims whose abuse was used by a suspect or suspects to create child sex abuse material (CSAM).

**Newly identified child victim is a victim whose identity was not previously known to law enforcement or NCMEC, but now is known as a result of an investigation. These children are the newly identified child victims whose abuse was not captured in any known child sex abuse material (CSAM).

Indiana Rail Safety Week highlights making safe choices around trains, railroad tracks

INDIANAPOLIS — Every year, 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured when they engage in unsafe behavior around tracks and trains. Indiana Operation Lifesaver is joining State Operation Lifesaver Programs across the nation during the week of Sept. 14-20 to observe Rail Safety Week.

urging the public to help #STOPTrackTragedies and simultaneously observing Rail Safety Week in Canada and Mexico, partnering in the U.S. mission to raise awareness, educate, and save lives.
In Indiana, each year, over 100 people are killed or injured in grade crossing and trespassing incidents.
Said Indiana Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Jessica Feder, “Indiana Rail Safety Week activities in Indiana will emphasize community education events along with social media activity sharing the lifesaving rail safety education message.” “We are kicking off the week today with a state Indiana Rail Safety Week proclamation. Through rail safety education during this week and every day, we are empowering Indiana residents to make safe choices around railroad tracks and trains and to help keep their communities safe.”
In Indiana and across the U.S., the following themes and messaging will be emphasized:
•Monday, Sept. 15, kicks off the week with the overarching theme of #STOPTrackTragedies and a focus on Media Outreach and Proclamations in states and localities. OLI will release two new #STOPTrackTragedies video public service announcements (PSAs).
•Tuesday, Sept. 16, focuses on the annual observance of Operation Clear Track in the U.S. and Canada, emphasizing the importance of obeying crossing safety and anti-trespass laws. Law enforcement partners will conduct awareness exercises, Officer on the Train activities, and other in-person positive enforcement events, as well as join first responders sharing rail safety education messages through social media, emails, and website posts.
•Wednesday, Sept. 17 highlights Crossing Safety, with outreach to the public, including driver education students, drivers of all ages, shift workers, school bus drivers, and farmers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of the Blue and White Emergency Notification System (ENS) signs at crossings.
•The themes for Thursday, Sept. 18, Transit Safety Thursday and Professional Driver Safety, showcase how to stay safe as a rail commuter or transit rider, as well as safe choices around railroad tracks and trains for professional drivers. Transit riders will be encouraged to take and share OLI’s transit safety pledge.
•Friday, Sept. 19, focuses on Volunteering with Operation Lifesaver, Inc., along with Wearing Red or “Red Out” for Rail Safety by encouraging partner safety organizations, schools, railroad employees, and the public to wear red and share photos on social media.
•Saturday, Sept. 20 highlights Trespass Prevention, educating pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, college students, people experiencing homelessness, and outdoor enthusiasts about the dangers posed by being on or near the tracks.
•Sunday, Sept. 21, promotes No Photo, Video or Selfie is Worth the Risk, to warn professional and amateur photographers as well as social media influencers against putting themselves or others in danger by illegally taking photos, videos, or filming near tracks and trains.

Bible study group for elected officials

PLYMOUTH — Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 5 p.m. in the County Building, Room 203, Pastor Matt Barnes from the State Capitol’s Public Servants Prayer Group is kicking off a Bible study for all appointed and elected officials in Marshall County. He will have a message and a lesson.


All elected officials are invited to attend, including but not limited to Municipal, Township, School, and County office holders, and all appointed board members, such as: Library, Sewer, Health, BZA, Plan Commission, Redevelopment, Drainage, Soil & Water, Parks, Elections, Central Dispatch, Community Corrections, etc.
The event will start at 5 p.m. and end approximately at 6:15 p.m.

Possession of marijuana

While working the DUI task force assignment, ​Marshall County Deputies stopped a vehicle for speeding.


While talking with the driver, Joshua D. Robinson, 34, a strong smell of marijuana emanated ​from the vehicle. Marshall County Deputies located approximately 2 Ounces of marijuana.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

South Bend man arrested for obstruction of justice

PLYMOUTH — On Sept. 10 at 1:58 a.m., Plymouth Police were dispatched to Baker St. for a report of a domestic violence in progress.


Arriving at the scene, Officers determined that the crime was not in progress and that the report had been falsely made. The calling party was eventually identified and located traveling west on Baker St. near Columbus St.
A traffic stop was initiated, and the driver of the vehicle, Nolan Z. Kalka, 25, of South Bend, was found to be operating the vehicle while intoxicated. Kalka was arrested and charged with False Reporting, Obstruction of Justice, and Operating a Vehicle with a BAC over 0.15. He was transported to the Marshall County Jail and issued a court date and a bond.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Dual hearings for Argos School Board

ARGOS — The Board of Education of Argos Community Schools will meet for a Public Hearing on the

2026 Argos Community Schools Budget on Sept. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in the Dragon Center conference room. A Collective Bargaining hearing will immediately follow that meeting.
The Board will then hold their regular board meeting following the conclusion of the public hearings.

Culver Lake Shore Drive to close Monday


CULVER — The Town of Culver will begin construction on the Lake Shore Drive Widening Project starting Monday, September 15.


This construction zone is located on Lake Shore Drive between State Road 10 and Academy Road. Two-way traffic will be closed; however, the Town will try to maintain single lane traffic through this area to provide access to Park and Shop as well as First National Bank of Monterey. Any concerns or questions can be addressed to kdanti@townofculver.org.

INDOT to host winter seasonal hiring events

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Transportation is in search of dedicated, qualified individuals who want to help serve their fellow Hoosiers this winter. INDOT will host winter seasonal

hiring events on Tuesday, September 23, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. local time, at six locations across the state, and on Tuesday, Oct. 7, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time at four locations in the Southeast district.
Winter seasonal positions run from November through early April. Pay starts at $21 per hour for full-time operations and $25 per hour for on-call snowplow-only operations. Job duties for full-time seasonal positions include performing general highway and traffic maintenance, snow and ice removal and other duties related to winter operations. A valid CDL is required to be considered for full-time or on-call positions.
Registration is not required to attend INDOT’s hiring events, and interviews will be conducted on-site the same day. INDOT team members will be available to answer questions and provide more information about open positions and careers with the agency. For a full list of hiring event locations and more information, visit INDOTJobs.com.

Two men jailed for possession

LaPAZ — On Thursday, Sept. 4,​ at 12:01 pm,​ Marshall County Dispatch broadcast a report of a possible impaired or unsafe driver northbound on US 31 from SR 10.


The report was of a black Ford Explorer or SUV with a ladder on top of it,​ all over the roadway. Marshall County Officers located that vehicle and the vehicle was stopped for a moving violation.
Officers discovered that the driver Edd D Kadja, 23, and Nicholas W Dispain, 20 both of Indianapolis, were in possession of marijuana. Both were taken into custody and transported to the Marshall County Jail. ​

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

County dispatcher earns national recognition

PLYMOUTH — Kennedy Tennant has earned National recognition for Excellence in dispatching through the National Emergency Number Association (NENA).


This distinguished achievement is awarded to Dispatchers who have completed at least three advanced dispatch courses within two years. Receiving this recognition shows that our Dispatchers are highly trained and will always strive to provide exceptional emergency services to the communities we serve.
“Training is a top priority for our 911 Dispatchers, and we take great pride in recognizing these individuals for their hard work and dedication,” said Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hassel. “Today, Kennedy received her certificate from NENA and was provided with a Marshall County Dispatch challenge coin for her achievement.”

Board of Finance to meet


PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Board of Finance will meet on Monday, Sept. 15 at


10:30 a.m. or immediately following the Commissioners Meeting in room 203 of the Marshall County Building.
The purpose is for the discussion of interest earned on County accounts.

Marshall County Culvert crew to close a road

The Marshall County Highway Culvert Crew will be closing a road on Thursday for a culvert replacement.


•Redwood from 3B to 2B
This road will be closed. No vehicles will be able to get through while work is being performed. Please use caution, slow down, and be alert when traveling near or through construction zones. Be mindful of our workers and road conditions.

Support your back and Argos at their upcoming fundraiser

The FFA and Music Dept Hosts 1st Annual Mattress Fundraiser

ARGOS – Are you looking to replace a bed in your home? Now is the time. The Argos FFA Chapter and Music Dept is hosting the 1st Annual Mattress Fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 am-5 pm. For one day only, the Argos HS Gym will be transformed into a mattress showroom. For information about the sale, go to bit.ly/beds4argosmusicdept25.


There will be over 30 mattresses on display in various sizes and styles for customers to try, priced below retail. Adjustable power bases, luxury pillows, premium sheets, bed frames, and mattress protectors will also be available. The brands include Simmons Beautyrest, Purple, Helix, Therapedic (and more), and all come with full factory warranties and are made to order. Delivery is available. Best of all, the Argos FFA Chapter and Music Dept benefit from every purchase.

An accident sends driver to the hospital

On Saturday,​ Sept 6,​ at 6:32 p.m., the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 call regarding a single vehicle rollover on US 31 at 19th Road.


The driver, Matthew Stone, 40, stated he did not remember anything about the crash. ​A witness stated Stone’s vehicle was traveling north on US 31 at what appeared to be a high rate of speed and attempted to make a left-hand turn onto 19th Road and lost control,​ rolling the vehicle into the ditch. ​
Stone stated he did not remember the crash and was also trapped in the vehicle, and was extricated by the Argos Fire Dept. ​Stone was flown from the scene.
​Agencies Involved: ​Marshall County Sheriff’s Department,​ Argos Police,​ Argos Fire,​ Argos EMS,​ Medflight

Secretary of State warns Hoosiers of government impersonation scams

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales is warning Hoosiers to stay alert for government impersonation scams targeting residents through email, text, phone, and social media.


The Indiana Securities Division has seen a rise in reports of scammers posing as government employees or agencies, tricking victims into believing their accounts have been hacked or tied to illegal activity. Scammers then pressure victims to move their money—often resulting in devastating financial losses.
Recent cases include:
— An elderly woman who lost over $800,000 after being told her computer contained illegal content and ordered to transfer her savings into cryptocurrency and gold.
— Another Hoosier who lost nearly $2 million after scammers posing as Homeland Security agents convinced him to wire funds and hand over gold bars.
These scams often follow three steps:
•Tech Support Imposter – A pop-up, text, or email directs victims to call “tech support,” giving scammers access to personal computers and financial accounts. They pretend to run a virus scan on your computer and falsely claim the victim’s computer has been hacked.
•Financial Institution Imposter – Victims are told their accounts are compromised and instructed to transfer money “for safekeeping.” The victim is directed to transfer their money via a wire transfer, cash, or crypto ATM transfer, often to overseas recipients.
•Government Imposter – Scammers pose as federal agencies, sometimes using fake letterhead or emails to appear legitimate. The scammer continues to emphasize that the victim’s funds are “unsafe” and that they must be moved to a new “alias” account for protection.
“Scammers are preying on hardworking Hoosiers, stealing their life savings under the guise of protecting their assets. Urgency and secrecy are two of the biggest red flags. If you’re asked to convert cash into cryptocurrency, wire funds, or send gift cards, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. Ask questions and do your homework before handing over your hard-earned money,” said Diego Morales, Indiana Secretary of State.
You should remember:
•The U.S. government will never ask for money through wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
•Do not click on unsolicited pop-ups, links, or attachments.
Verify before acting—contact the Indiana Securities Division at 317-232-6681 before sending money.

Multiple charges after search warrant

PLYMOUTH — On the morning of Sept. 9, at 4 a.m., Plymouth Police Officers executed a search warrant at a residence on State Road 17, in Plymouth.


Plymouth Police Officers were assisted by Marshall County Sheriff’s Deputies in executing the search warrant of the residence and property. As a result of the police department’s investigation, Oscar J. Andrade, 48, of Plymouth, was taken into custody for possession of cocaine, possession of a legend drug, possession of marijuana, intimidation, and invasion of privacy.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.