INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) is partnering with Indiana State Police (ISP) and local law

enforcement agencies across the state to increase patrols aimed at reducing speeding and distracted driving on Indiana roadways as part of the annual Safer Roads Campaign, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
As part of the Comprehensive Highway Injury Reduction Program (CHIRP), an ICJI initiative that provides federal funding for local traffic safety enforcement, officers statewide will work overtime beginning April 4 through April 13, 2026, to identify and stop drivers who are speeding or violating Indiana’s Hands-Free Law.
“Distracted driving and speeding are preventable behaviors that put drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk,” said Douglas Huntsinger, executive director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. “This campaign is a reminder that these actions have real consequences, and law enforcement officers are actively working to keep Indiana’s roads safe.”
According to NHTSA, Indiana recorded 249 speeding-related fatalities in 2023, and distracted driving accounted for 47 fatal incidents. However, limitations in data collection suggest that the actual number of deadly crashes caused by distracted drivers is likely higher than reported.
“Traffic safety is a core public safety priority,” ISP Superintendent Anthony Scott said. “We are committed to promoting voluntary compliance and reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Distracted driving and speeding pose serious risks, and campaigns like this are essential to confronting these behaviors and ensuring safer roadways for all motorists.”
Indiana’s Hands-Free Law, which took effect in 2020, prohibits drivers from holding mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle. Calls may only be made using hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth, a headset, or another hands-free device.
To help prevent dangerous driving behaviors, ICJI and ISP encourage motorists to:
Put the phone down and avoid multitasking while driving
Obey posted speed limits and adjust speed for road conditions
Allow extra travel time, especially during busy commute periods
Keep a safe distance between vehicles
CHIRP is supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department obtained a call of a domestic situation on Nutmeg Trail in Plymouth.

Officers went to the location and investigated the complaint. During the complaint investigation,​ a Search Warrant was obtained for the residence.
Charles Edward Garmon,​ III,​ age 40 was arrested and booked into the Marshall County Jail for domestic battery, possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug, marijuana, a syringe or needle, and paraphernalia.
A case report will be completed and forwarded to the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office for review and formal charges to be filed.

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

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Commissioners will have their regular meeting on Monday, April 6, at 8:30 a.m. in the

second-floor meeting room of the County Building at 112 W. Jefferson in Plymouth.
On that agenda are regular reports from Highway Superintendent Jason Peters, County Attorney Sean Surrisi, and County Auditor Angie Birchmeier.
Public Safety Grant requests from the Argos Fire Territory and Bourbon Fire Department will be heard, along with a sick bank request. Judge Matthew Aldridge will discuss the courtroom technology upgrade, and Reed Wills, CEO of Chesco Energy, will make a presentation.
The meeting will be streamed on YouTube @MarshallCountyIN.
At the conclusion of that meeting, the Commissioners will conduct an Executive Session in the Marshall County Commissioners’ Room to receive information for interviews and negotiations with industrial prospects.

PLYMOUTH — MCHS is announcing the second in our America’s 250 Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture series, featuring

presentations on the Revolutionary War era. The Brown Bag event is on Friday, April 10, from Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Join local attorney Nelson “Nathaniel” Chipman for an in-depth look at the events that shaped the American freedom struggle in the time preceding July 4, 1776.
The event will be held at the Marshall County Historical Society & Museum, 123 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. Pack a lunch and learn with us! For more information, please call 574-936-2306.

STARKE AND MARSHALL COUNTIES, Ind. – Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Rieth-Riley Construction Co

Inc will have lane closures on U.S. 30 between U.S. 35 and Union Rd beginning on or after Tuesday, April 7.
U.S. 30 will be resurfaced through this area, with alternating lane closures through the end of November. For the first two to three weeks, the inside left lanes will be closed at each end of the project area while median crossovers are built. Once constructed, the eastbound lanes will be converted to two-way traffic while the westbound lanes are closed for construction for phase one.
The project will consist of two phases, with the phase switch planned for mid-August. During phase two, the westbound lanes will be two-way traffic, and the eastbound lanes will be closed for construction.
Ramp closures will occur at the U.S. 30 and U.S. 35 interchange toward the end of each phase of construction due to where work is occurring. During phase one, access to U.S. 35 northbound will be maintained for westbound traffic until later in the season, when the ramp will be closed for three weeks for repairs. The same will occur for the U.S. 35 northbound ramp to U.S. 30 eastbound near the end of phase two.
This project includes full and partial depth patching, milling and resurfacing, pipe work, and pavement markings. Full and partial depth patching involves replacing a greater depth than the resurfacing will. Areas with structural issues are identified, and the road is replaced down to the base for durable, long-term repairs. When the full resurfacing is done, the area will still be resurfaced to ensure a smooth driving surface.
INDOT encourages drivers to allow extra time when traveling through this area and follow traffic directions carefully. Motorists should slow down, exercise caution, and drive distraction-free through all work zones.

PLYMOUTH — On the afternoon of March 31, 2026, Plymouth Police were notified of a man who had escaped the courtroom and

had fled on foot.
Plymouth Officers located Bruno J. Cataldo walking through the front yard of a residence on North Michigan Street. The officer announced and identified himself, which led to a foot pursuit. Officers would utilize department-issued Tasers, ultimately placing Cataldo in custody. Cataldo was transported and lodged in the Marshall County Jail.

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

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department responded to a domestic violence call for service. ​

Through an investigation, it was learned that Rikay Salmons, 34, was violating an active no-contact order issued by Marshall County Superior II. ​
Subsequently,​ she was arrested for Invasion of Privacy (A-Misdemeanor). ​Salmons was booked into the Marshall County Jail.

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

PLYMOUTH — On the evening of March 29th, 2026, at approximately 6:30 pm, Plymouth Police conducted a traffic stop in the

area of US 31 and 9A Road for a license violation.
The driver was identified as Rahjean Welch, 36 years old of Indianapolis. Welch was found to have never been issued a driver’s license. Signs of impairment were also identified during the course of the officer’s investigation, in addition to open containers and suspected marijuana.
Following a chemical test, Welch was taken into custody and lodged at the Marshall County Jail on preliminary charges of Operating While Intoxicated, Possession of Marijuana, and Operator Never Licensed.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

CULVER — Marshall County Sheriff’s Department Patrol Units were dispatched to the 15,​000 block of State Road 17 regarding

an unwanted guest call. ​
Units were told that a man later identified as Timothy Howard, 50, was intoxicated and refusing to leave. ​Through an investigation is was learned that Howard had driven to the residence and was in a state of intoxication. ​Howard was subsequently arrested for Operating While Intoxicated with a Previous Conviction (Level 6 Felony).

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

BREMEN — Marshall County Deputies responded to a head-on collision in the area of US 6 and Linden Rd.

Upon investigation, it was found that a Ford Focus driven by David Patterson, 85, of Angola, had crossed over the center line, colliding with a Jeep Wrangler driven by Judith Bono, 62, of LaPorte.
Patterson was taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening ​injuries. ​
Agencies Involved: Marshall County ​Sheriff Dept,​ Bremen PD

Below is the agenda for the Marshall County Park Board meeting to be held Wednesday, March 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council on

Aging building on Harrison St. in Plymouth.

• Call to order

• Approval of Minutes

• Secretary Report

• Old Business
  • Update on Mill Pond Property
    • Multi Use Trail
    • Fishing Platform
  • Update on Memorial Forest
    • Cabin/Shelter
    • Trails
    • Pond
  • Update on Canoe/Kayak
    • Fishing Tournament Details
    • Gravel for Hickory Road

• New Business
  • Grant Applications    

• Public Comment

• Adjournment

PLYMOUTH — On March 29, 2026, at 3:17 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a

vehicle whose registered owner was shown to be suspended.
The registered owner and driver was identified as Nicholas Kowalski, 29, of Kimmell, Indiana. He was taken into custody for driving while suspended. While the officer was talking to Kowalski, they got a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A vehicle search was conducted, and marijuana and cocaine were located.
Kowalski was then transported to Marshall County Jail, where he was booked in for Driving while suspended prior, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of cocaine.

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

CULVER — Culver Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim has announced some spring event dates for citizens to remember.

Week of April 6 – Hydrant Flushing
Hydrant flushing is routine maintenance that removes sediment from water lines and improves water flow. During this process, water may appear discolored. While safe for consumption, you may want to avoid washing white laundry during this time. If your water is discolored, run the faucet for a few minutes until it clears.

LaPAZ — On Wednesday,​ March 25,​ 2026, at 10:08 PM, Marshall County Deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 14,​000

block of 3rd road in reference to a Physical Domestic Disturbance between a daughter and her parents.
During the investigation, it was determined that the daughter in the altercation,​ Abigail A. Stansbury, had battered her mother, resulting in injuries.
Stansbury was subsequently arrested and transported to the Marshall County Jail, where she was booked in and lodged for Domestic Battery – Adult Knowing the Presence of a Child Less Than 16 Years Old,​ a Level 6 Felony.

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

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have risen 19.3 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.99/g today, according to

GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana are $1.19 per gallon higher than a month ago and stand 87.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 14.3 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $5.369 per gallon, the highest level since July 27, 2022.
The cheapest prices reported in various local communities:
Pulaski County
Winamac — $4.09
Francesville — $4.19
Medaryville — $4.19
Starke County
Knox — $3.99
North Judson — $4.19
Hamlet — $3.99
LaPorte County
LaPorte — $3.99
LaCrosse — $4.19
Michigan City — $4.04
Wanatah — $4.19
Rolling Prairie — $4.19
Westville — $4.14
New Carlisle — $4.19
North Liberty — $3.99
Walkerton — $3.69
Marshall County
Argos — $3.99
Bourbon — $3.69
Bremen — $3.99
Culver — $4.19
LaPaz — $4.09
Plymouth — $3.96
According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $3.12/g Sunday, while the most expensive was $4.99/g, a difference of $1.87/g.
The national average price of gasoline has risen 2.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.95/g today.
“Gasoline and diesel prices continue to climb to multi-year highs as the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz curtails the flow of millions of barrels of crude oil each day,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable, but upward pressure on fuel prices is likely to persist as long as global oil supplies are constrained by the continued disruption in the Strait. We’re likely to see the national average for gasoline push beyond the $4-per-gallon mark, while diesel could approach $6 per gallon and potentially set new records if conditions fail to improve. Americans have already spent nearly $8 billion more on gasoline over the past month, a trend that poses growing risks to the broader economy, while surging diesel prices may begin to reaccelerate inflation.”
GasBuddy is North America’s trusted fuel savings platform, helping consumers fuel up for less for over 25 years at GasBuddy.com.

PLYMOUTH — Project DARE of Marshall County is proud to recognize two DARE Essay winners. Loy Viart was the Bremen

Public Schools winner. Wyatt Wildauer was the St. Paul’s Lutheran School winner.
DARE Instructor, Sergeant Matt Schnaible of the Bremen Police Department is pictured giving the $100.00 check provided by Project DARE of Marshall County.

FULTON COUNTY, Ind. – Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Morphey Construction Inc will close State Road 25

between C.R. 575 N and C.R. 500 N on or after Tuesday, March 31.
State Road 25 will be closed through the end of October for a bridge replacement project at Eaton Busenburg Ditch. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow State Road 110 and U.S. 31.

CULVER — Members of the non-profit entity working on a project to renovate the old theatre building in downtown Culver held a

work session with the Culver Town Council on Thursday night.
Those involved with the creation of the Maxincuckee Performing Arts Theatre outlined their work and plans to date, seeking the input and support of the council moving forward.
The main issue at hand was the need for the theatre building to have a bigger “footprint” in the downtown. Representatives have been working with neighbors of the theatre building, namely the Fire Department and condominiums situated directly behind the building, finding what will be an acceptable growth of the building.
Members of the performing arts project told the Council that while the exact numbers are not set in stone, the belief is that the current structure is not wide enough or tall enough to be successful as a performing arts venue. The group said that the building would need to be 40 feet wide and 30 feet tall to be used to its optimal capacity.
Condominium owners had concerns about the shared parking lot, and the Fire Department about the ability to enter and leave their building as well as pull equipment out for maintenance. The town also had concerns about the effect on pedestrian traffic flow, particularly in the summer when the area is more congested.
The group told the Council that ownership of the property had been transferred to the non-profit, as they continue to put together studies and paperwork in preparation for applying for a Readi 2.0 grant.
The Council will vote on a resolution regarding a letter of intent to continue to work with the group on the performing arts center.

INDIANAPOLIS – Two of Indiana’s most recognizable summer traditions are teaming up for a grand slam summer. The Indiana

State Fair and Indianapolis Indians announced today a partnership for the 2026 Indiana State Fair, bringing together iconic organizations that have long been part of the Hoosier summer experience. The partnership was announced today at Opening Day festivities at Victory Field, where leadership from the Fair and Indians gathered with fans and media to celebrate the collaboration.
“The Indiana State Fair has always celebrated the best our state has to offer,” said Ray Allison, Indiana State Fair Executive Director. “Nothing celebrates America and Indiana quite like baseball and the State Fair. We are excited to partner with the Indianapolis Indians to celebrate America’s pastime and our nation’s 250th birthday at the 2026 Indiana State Fair.”
The summer-long partnership will bring an exciting lineup of activations to both Victory Field and the Indiana State Fair. Fairgoers can step up to the plate with immersive, interactive experiences, highlighted by a “mini-Victory Field” wiffle ball diamond on the north side of the Fairgrounds. The baseball theme will also serve as a centerpiece for the United States 250th Birthday celebration, bringing Americana to life through two timeless traditions—fairs and baseball—creating a season that is both nostalgic and unmistakably All-American.
“I am thrilled for this year’s Indiana State Fair theme to celebrate the game of baseball alongside our very own hometown team, the Indianapolis Indians. What a perfect year for this collaboration as we honor the 250th Birthday of America through the lens of two of America’s greatest traditions: fairs and baseball,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun.
“The Indianapolis Indians are honored and excited to partner with the Indiana State Fair this year. As we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, we are delighted that two of Central Indiana’s longest-standing summer traditions are working together to make this one especially memorable,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and CEO. “As Indy’s Original Home Team, we look forward to welcoming fans throughout the state to Victory Field and the Fairgrounds this summer.”
The 169th Indiana State Fair returns Friday, August 7th, through Sunday, August 23rd (closed Mondays).
Look for more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.indianastatefair.com
About the Indiana State Fair:
The Indiana State Fair, known as the state’s premier multi-day event, is a vibrant celebration of the Hoosier spirit and agricultural legacy. Over 15 exciting days, it unites communities across Indiana to honor the state’s unique identity and welcomes visitors from far and wide. Renowned for its top-notch entertainment, spotlight on 4-H youth, engaging agricultural education programs, modern facilities, and an array of delicious fare, the Indiana State Fair has been a treasured tradition for Hoosiers for over a century. The 2026 Indiana State Fair takes place from August 7th to August 23rd (closed Mondays). For comprehensive event information, ticket details, and attractions, be sure to visit our official website at http://www.indianastatefair.com.
About the Indianapolis Indians:
The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends, and the community through the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 15 seasons. In 2018, the organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places to Work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

PLYMOUTH — On the evening of March 25, 2026, just before 5 pm, Plymouth Police were dispatched to the area of Lake

Avenue and Center Street to check the railroad tracks after a complaint was called into Marshall County Central Dispatch.
The caller reported that multiple subjects were throwing rocks from the bridge and causing a disturbance. Three subjects were seen on the railroad tracks. The officer ordered them to stop, but they fled the area and were caught behind Bowen Printing.
Two of the subjects were juveniles, and the third was 18-year-old Rider Kunkle of Plymouth. Kunkle was taken into custody and lodged at the Marshall County Jail on preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement and railroad trespassing.
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office also assisted Plymouth Police.

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