All posts by Rusty Nixon

PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety will begin to address a safety issue at a

building at 113 East Washington St. that was part of McCords in Plymouth.
The building has fallen into disrepair, and recently, there were reports of bricks falling from the walls of the building. Building Commissioner Dennis Manuwal informed the Board that he had inspected the building and confirmed that bricks were indeed falling from the structure, and he also observed that a wall had begun to bow.
The city will urge the owners to take some action for safety, and the Board decided to place a barricade around the structure for safety reasons.
Discussions of what to do with the property began as far back as 2023, and the city would like the building demolished and redeveloped. An environmental study was undertaken in February of this year to find any contamination issues with the former industrial site.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has a new website at

in.gov/counties/marshall-county-ema, which gives EMA personnel the ability to more easily share information with the public. Users can visit the website to find the following:
— Press releases & public information
— Upcoming meetings & trainings
— County emergency plans
— Travel advisory & burn ban status
— Disaster & emergency safety tips
— Damage report form
— Links to our community partners
“Creating a standalone EMA website was one of our key strategic priorities for improving the agency’s presence and capabilities,” said Jack Garner, Marshall County EMA Director. “The page will advance our ability to educate the public on what emergency management is and how it works locally. The end goal is a prepared and resilient Marshall County.”
The website also possesses features such as an event calendar, contact form, and a form for the public to submit damage reports after a disaster.
EMA personnel will have the flexibility to be able to edit the website at any hour on any day.
EMA partnered with the Indiana Office of Technology (IOT) to build a new website for the agency that will be hosted for free by IOT at no additional cost to the county.
Visit in.gov/counties/marshall-county-ema.

PLYMOUTH — On Dec. 9 at 6:16 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were dispatched to

1919 N. Michigan St. (Pizza Hut) for a fight in progress.
When officers arrived on scene, they were advised by the manager that a man, who was later identified as Bryan Pedigo, 54, of Indianapolis, was trying to fight the manager because he wouldn’t serve him more alcohol. Pedigro was already highly intoxicated before arriving at the restaurant.
Pedigro had left the scene and was later located at Burger King, causing a disturbance inside the store. He resisted officers but was taken into custody and transported to Marshall County Jail, where he was booked in for public intoxication, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, and intimidation.

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

PLYMOUTH — Angie Johnson Birchmeier, Auditor of Marshall County, has been elevated to serve as

Treasurer of the Indiana Auditor’s Association following the retirement of the Association’s current Treasurer.
Birchmeier had previously been elected to serve as the Association’s Secretary for 2026. Her new role places her on the Association’s Executive Committee, where she will help guide statewide collaboration, oversight, and professional development for all 92 counties.
A special meeting was held by the Auditors Association on Nov. 25, to vote for the changes, and the official transition was on Dec. 2, during the Annual Commissioners Conference.
Birchmeier currently represents the Northwest District on the Association’s Legislative Committee, contributing to policy discussions and advocacy efforts that support Indiana counties.
A lifelong resident of Marshall County, Birchmeier has built a strong record of public service. She previously served as Marshall County Treasurer before being elected Auditor in 2020, consistently prioritizing accuracy, transparency, and responsible financial stewardship.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Council pledged support for a local initiative that will ensure a safe

transition for families and individuals in the county in case of a housing emergency, i.e., the closing of Red Rock Inn in Plymouth.
Members of the group putting together the SAFE Housing Response fund — Linda Yoder of United Way, Brent Martin, and Jack Davis — came before the Council to ask their support for the initiative that would help ensure that those displaced in the case of a housing emergency would have a safe transition to a new residence.
The fund would be administered by the Marshall County United Way. In the case of a crisis situation, a special “Grants Committee” would convene to determine if the particular situation was one that fit the group’s criteria for monetary support. Once the funds are awarded, they will be distributed to the group’s partners — Link to Hope and The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ — to be used for providing a stable first night for those displaced and helping provide a stable first month of housing and, in some cases, a second month while the individuals seek a permanent solution.
All funds would be distributed by Link to Hope and the Poor Handmaids directly to the providers of the services, not to those receiving them.
The group also plans to approach the cities and towns of the county seeking monetary support.
The Council voted unanimously to support the effort with $25,000 that will be taken out of a non-tax supplied fund — the county’s opioid non-restricted settlement funds.

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is seeking applicants for the state’s

Governor’s Summer Internship (GSI) Program, available to eligible undergraduate and graduate students.
The GSI Program offers paid internship opportunities to students who have completed at least one year of undergraduate education and are enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution. The hourly pay for selected candidates is $16.24/hour.
At INDOT, the program offers transportation-related internships in a variety of fields, including but not limited to accounting, construction management, materials and testing, public information, transportation research, engineering, planning, and more.
Apply today by visiting bit.ly/INDOTInternships26 or learn more about the Governor’s Summer Internship Program at bit.ly/INDOTGSIProgram. Have questions on how to apply? Contact us at 855-463-6848 or visit INDOT4U.com.

PLYMOUTH — Nicholas Langowski today announced the formation of an Exploratory Committee as he

considers a campaign to seek the Republican Nomination for Prosecuting Attorney of Marshall County. Langowski emphasized his commitment to fairness, public safety, and transparency within the county’s justice system.
“I’m running for Prosecutor because our community deserves a justice system that is transparent, accountable, and dedicated to protecting every resident,” Langowski said. “My goal is to pursue justice with integrity—ensuring victims are heard, offenders are held responsible, and the rights of all citizens are respected.”

Background
Nicholas Langowski, originally from Brunswick, Ohio, earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Mount Union in 2015 and graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law in 2018.
While in law school, he clerked for the Marshall Superior Court No. 2 from 2016 to 2018.
In 2019 Nicholas began his role as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Marshall County, where he still serves today as Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney.
Over the past six years, Langowski has prosecuted a wide range of cases, including homicide, drug-related offenses, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, and domestic violence. He also serves as the Prosecutor’s Office representative for the Marshall County Drug Court, where he works collaboratively to support recovery and reduce recidivism.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Langowski is committed to community involvement. He enjoys spending time with his family and volunteers as a football coach at Plymouth High School.
“As someone who has dedicated my career to serving Marshall County, I believe in a justice system that works for the people it represents,” Langowski said. “This is my home. I’m committed to ensuring that fairness, integrity, and accountability remain at the heart of our justice system.”
Priorities if Elected
If elected Prosecuting Attorney, Langowski plans to focus on:
— Strengthening community safety through smart, effective prosecution
— Increasing transparency to build trust with the public
— Working closely with law enforcement, service providers, and local leaders to reduce crime and support victims
“Our county is strongest when people feel safe and know their justice system works for them—not against them,” Langowski added. “I’m ready to serve with integrity, independence, and a deep respect for the people of Marshall County.”
For more information or media inquiries, email: langowsk1forprosecutor@gmail.com

BREMEN — The ​Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, along with Bremen Police,​ Fire, and EMS,

responded to a single vehicle accident on East Shore Drive near the intersection with Atlantic Street,​ Lake of the Woods,​ Bremen. ​
The driver of a white 2011 Chevrolet Malibu was identified as 30-year-old Jacob Egenlauf. ​Through the scene investigation,​ probable cause was established that Egenlauf had operated a motor vehicle while intoxicated. ​
A certified chemical test result showed Egenlauf’s ​blood alcohol content was ​over twice the legal limit. ​He was arrested and booked into the Marshall County Jail for Operating While Intoxicated.

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

PLYMOUTH — A brass quintet from the South Bend Symphony Orchestra will be giving a free concert on

Thursday, Dec. 11, at 4 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Plymouth. The historic building is known for the wonderful acoustics of its domed sanctuary.
The church is located at 400 North Michigan Street, across the street from the 1st Source Bank. Street parking is available as well as in the lots on the north and east sides of the two buildings. Sanctuary building entrances are off Michigan Street, Adams Street, and the north side of the building. Per the age of the building, there are steps involved; there is a lift off the Adams Street side if needed. Assistance will be available. For any questions, please contact the church office at 574-936-2943.

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have risen 4.6 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.81/g

today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana are 21.1 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 7.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has decreased 5.1 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.671 per gallon.
The cheapest station in Marshall County was in Plymouth at $2.79 a gallon, and the most expensive was in Culver at $2.99. In Starke County, the cheapest gas was in Hamlet at $2.89 a gallon, and the most expensive was in Knox at $2.99 a gallon.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.28/g yesterday, while the most expensive was $3.19/g, a difference of 91.0 cents per gallon. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $2.28/g while the highest was $3.19/g, a difference of 91.0 cents per gallon.
The national average price of gasoline has decreased by 5.0 cents per gallon over the last week, averaging $ 2.90 per gallon today.
“Gas prices continued to decline in most states last week, while some price cycling states saw temporary spikes to restore margins,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “With the national average falling further, we’re now at multi-year lows heading into Christmas. Diesel prices are also easing, and in the cheapest cities, averages have dipped into the low-$2 range—with a few stations still offering gas under $2 per gallon. Barring any major disruptions, prices are likely to stay relatively low into the new year.”
GasBuddy’s up to date prices are available 24/7 at GasBuddy.com.

BREMEN — On Sunday,​ Dec. 7,​ at approximately 9:41 P.M.,​ Marshall County Police were dispatched to an

address in the 13,​000 block of 4th Road for reports of a female being shot at.
Upon arrival,​ Officers were able to identify that two suspects were in an RV behind the residence. Officers were able to call them out and secure the scene. There were no persons injured during the shooting. ​A search warrant was applied for and was granted by the court.
Officers were able to recover a 20-gauge shotgun, which was hidden,​ methamphetamine,​ cocaine,​ suspected fentanyl,​ marijuana,​ multiple drug ​paraphernalia ​, and seized a small marijuana grow. ​The two suspects,​ William R. Neiswender, 49, and Rhonda P. Harrington,​ 43, were both taken into custody for multiple felony charges.

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

PLYMOUTH — On Dec. 7 at 11 P.M., Plymouth Police were notified of a FLOCK LPR alert advising of a

vehicle traveling into the city. The alert was due to the registered owner having an active arrest warrant.
At approximately 11:15 P.M., the vehicle was located at the Speedway Gas Station. The owner of the vehicle, Mary Minix, 51, of Knox, was located with the vehicle and taken into custody without incident for the active arrest warrant. Minix was transported to the Marshall County Jail where she was lodged pending transport to Pulaski County.

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

PLYMOUTH — On Nov. 28 at approximately 2:32 p.m., Plymouth Police Officers were called to a

residence in Plymouth for Aaron Brown, 47, who had been bedridden for approximately 2 months. Brown has developmental disabilities that require him to have a legal guardian, his sister, Linda Brown, 69, of the same address.
During the investigation, it was determined that Aaron had lain in bed since sometime in September without receiving medical attention. Aaron was immediately taken for medical care and is still hospitalized. Indiana Adult Protective Services was also contacted.
The Indiana Statute for Neglect of a Dependent is the same for resulting in death or catastrophic injury.
Adult Protective Services can be contacted at 1-800-992-6978 or by submitting an online form at https://www.in.gov/fssa/da/adult-protective-services/. Indiana is a mandatory report state, meaning everyone is required by law to report cases of suspected neglect, battery, or exploitation of an endangered adult to an APS unit or law enforcement. All reports are secured and kept confidential.
Please note that APS is not an emergency responder; if you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

PLYMOUTH — On Dec. 4, at 8:34 p.m., Marshall County Central Dispatch advised of a 911 call at the

Economy Inn on N. Michigan Street of a battery complaint that had just occurred.
During the investigation by a Plymouth Officer, it was discovered that forty-two-year-old Jimmy D. Jones, 42, of Plymouth had battered another man.
Jones was taken into custody and transported to the Marshall County Jail where he was booked and lodged for: Battery Class B Misdemeanor.

ARGOS — On December 6, 2025, at 7:55 am, the Marshall County Coroner’s Office was notified of a

motor vehicle fatality on US 31 and State Road 10. 
The deceased was the driver of a Chevy Equinox that was westbound on State Road 10 and entered the path of a northbound semi-tractor-trailer. The Equinox was struck on the driver’s side. 
The deceased is Christopher J. Jankoviak, Age 57, of Niles, Michigan.
A passenger in the car was transported to Memorial Hospital, South Bend.
Jankoviak was pronounced dead at the scene by Marshall County Deputy Coroner John Lampkins.
Additional details regarding the crash and the other driver will be released by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.
Assisting at the scene was Argos Fire and Police

PLYMOUTH — Due to the County Building space being unavailable, the Marshall County Regional Sewer

District is rescheduling its meeting on Dec. 10, and will now hold its regular meeting at 11 A.M. on Friday, Dec. 19. The meeting will be held at the City of Plymouth’s Council Chambers located at 124 N. Michigan St., Plymouth, IN 46563, entrance off East Garro Street. There will be no meeting on December 10, 2025.
For questions, additional information, and archived copies of agendas, minutes, memoranda, and previous meeting videos, please visit https://www.marshallcountyrsd.com/ or contact the Marshall County Regional Sewer District at questions@marshallcountyrsd.com or call (574) 200-0049.
There will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions and provide comments during this meeting. Your participation is welcome.

LAPAZ — Marshall County Sheriff’s deputies investigated a two-car accident on US 31 south of LaPaz on Wednesday at 8:54 a.m.

A Chevy Impala driven by Adam Z. Scott, 26, of Rochester, was heading south on U.S. 31 near the 230 Mile marker. ​Traffic ahead on U.S. 31 south ​was slowing for a vehicle being recovered ​by a wrecker ​south of that location. ​ ​Scott ran ​into the rear of a GMC pickup truck driven by Carl G. Jenkins, 71, of South Whitley,​ which was escorting an oversized trailer. ​ Jenkins and Scott ​then struck the rear of the oversize ​trailer and came to rest in the roadway. ​Jenkins was transported to Memorial Hospital in South Bend ​for a possible back injury.​​​​​
Agencies Involved were Lapaz Fire,​ Lapaz ​EMS,​ Indiana State Police,​ Indiana Department of Transportation,​ and Marshall County Police
​ ​ ​

SOUTH BEND – Travis Frazier, 28 years old, of Rochester, was sentenced by United States District Court

Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Frazier was sentenced to 54 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Frazier accidentally shot a loaded gun while holding his infant child, who was struck by bullet fragments. Frazier had a prior felony conviction and a prior misdemeanor conviction for domestic battery, either of which prohibited him from possessing a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Rochester Police Department and the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

PLYMOUTH — The City of Plymouth will hold its regular meetings on Monday, starting with the Board of Public Works and Safety at 6 p.m., followed immediately by the Common Council.

On the Board of Works agenda is the Street Department opening of fuel bids for the coming year and the 2026 Animal Control Services Agreement, along with reports from the various department heads.
The Common Council will hold public hearings for additional appropriations, a tax abatement for Indiana Wheel, and a waiver of noncompliance for PIDCO.
Second and/or third readings will be heard on ordinances amending the salary ordinance for the fire department and for cemetery fees for the City of Plymouth.
Resolutions for additional appropriations, Indiana Wheel Company’s tax abatement, a transfer of funds from the Park and Recreation fund to the Greenways Trail, and a waiver of non-compliance for PIDCO will be heard.
Both meetings will be held in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the City Building. Those attending should enter from the Garro Street entrance.
If you need special accommodation to attend the meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator at 574-936-2948.
The meeting will be live streamed on YouTube @CityofPlymouth.