INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division is partnering with the

Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) for CVSA’s Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative January 12 – 16, 2026.
During this annual human trafficking initiative, ISP’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement units will have conversations with the CMV drivers they encounter during CMV Roadside Inspections. They will also pass out materials from TAT (Formerly Truckers Against Trafficking). CVSA’s Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative will be conducted across North America: in the US, January 12-16, 2026, Canada, February 23-27, 2026, and Mexico, March 16-20, 2026.
According to the United Nations, human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of people through force, fraud, or deception with the aim of exploiting them for profit.
Commercial motor vehicle drivers are the eyes and ears of America, and very often they are in places where human trafficking may occur. In the truck stop parking lots, rest area parking lots, or in commercial locations that could be using labor trafficking victims as part of their workforce. Over 40% of Human Trafficking cases reported by truck drivers have involved victims who were minors.
The Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative is part of CVSA’s Human Trafficking Prevention Program. The program seeks to reduce human trafficking throughout North America through coordinated enforcement and investigative, and educational awareness measures within the commercial motor vehicle industry.
CVSA and the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division collaborate with TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking)( https://tatnonprofit.org/ ) to engage and equip the commercial vehicle industry in the fight against human trafficking. Almost 2.5 million professionals in the trucking industry have been trained through TAT.
For more information regarding awareness, recognition, and prevention of Human Trafficking (including a 30-second video featuring a human trafficking survivor), please use the following link to CVSA’s Human Trafficking Resources page: https://cvsa.org/programs/human-trafficking-prevention/resources/

Governor Mike Braun has announced over $279,000 in federal matching grants for historic preservation

projects across Marion, Madison, Marshall, Fountain, and Delaware counties. These funds, which will stimulate a total investment of $547,000, will support masonry repairs at the Indianapolis Athenaeum, structural work on the Thomas Pendleton House, and a new roof for Plymouth’s Masonic Lodge. Additionally, the University of Indianapolis will conduct an archaeological survey in Fountain County, while Muncie’s Cornerstone Center for the Arts will develop a preservation plan for the 1926 Masonic Temple.

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have decreased by 14.8 cents per gallon over the last week, averaging

$2.63 per gallon today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana are 6.4 cents per gallon lower than they were a month ago and stand 34.7 cents per gallon lower than they were a year ago. The national average price of diesel has decreased 2.3 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.475 per gallon.
According to Gas Buddy reports around the area, the cheapest stations in

Marshall County:
Argos 2.79
Bourbon 2.64
Bremen 2.54
Culver 2.89
LaPaz 2.49
Plymouth 2.55
Koontz Lake 2.55

Pulaski County:
Winamac 2.82
Monteray 2.69

Starke County:
Knox 2.79
North Judson 2.85
Hamlet 2.59

LaPorte County:
Hanna 2.48
LaPorte 2.48
Michigan City 2.45
Wanatah 2.83
Westville 2.59
Walkerton 2.31
Fish Lake 2.59

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.18/g yesterday while the most expensive was $3.19/g, a difference of $1.01/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $2.18/g while the highest was $3.19/g, a difference of $1.01/g.
The national average price of gasoline has fallen 0.8 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.73/g today.
“Gas prices nationally saw little change over the last week, though several price-cycling states did experience notable jumps,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “The good news is that once prices rise in these markets, they often retreat for a week or longer afterward. While the situation in Venezuela has dominated headlines, it’s far too early for any measurable impact on what consumers are paying at the pump— whether prices go up or down— as it would likely take years to see a meaningful increase in oil output there. For now, gas prices remain seasonally lower, but with oil prices inching higher, the national average could soon see some limited upward movement.”
GasBuddy is North America’s trusted fuel savings platform, helping consumers fuel up for less for over 25 years. For up to the moment information, go to GasBuddy.com

PLYMOUTH — On the morning of Jan. 2, at 3:15 a.m., a Plymouth Police Officer conducted a traffic stop

on US 30 near Michigan Street for a speeding violation.
During the investigation, the driver was identified as Kyle Dicecco, 28, of Columbus, Ohio. Dicecco was found to be in violation of an active no-contact order in addition to showing signs of impairment with his 3-year-old daughter in the vehicle.
As a result of the investigation, Dicecco was taken into custody for felony operating while intoxicated, misdemeanor-invasion of privacy, and possession of marijuana.

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

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Park Board will meet on Thursday, Jan. 8, at 6 pm in the Council on

Aging building on Harrison St. in Plymouth.
On the agenda are:
•Board reorganization for 2026
•Update on Mill Pond Property
•Update on Memorial Forest
•Update on Canoe/Kayak

LaPAZ — On Tuesday,​ Jan. 6,​ at approximately 7:26 PM,​ Marshall County Deputies ​were

dispatched to the area of Cale and Troyer Street in Lapaz for reports of a man, later identified as 27-year-old ​Joshua M. Shaffer, breaking windows and slashing tires on a female’s vehicle. ​
The caller further advised that Joshua had been drinking and was seen driving his green 2003 Chevrolet Silverado back and forth between the residences. Deputies arrived on the scene and began investigating the incident. During the investigation, it was determined that Shaffer had operated a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Shaffer was transported to Plymouth Hospital for a certified chemical test. Upon doing so, he was found to be just under three times the legal limit of alcohol.
Shaffer was then transported to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, where he was booked for Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Prior Conviction,​ a Level 6 Felony.

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

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., immediately followed by the Common Council. Both meetings will be in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the City of Plymouth Building. Those attending should enter the Garro Street entrance.
On the Board of Works agenda are opening quotes for a fire station vehicle, a resolution to amend the Complete Streets Policy, and reports from the various city department heads.
The Common Council will make appointments to the various city boards and commissions and hear amendments regarding the zoning ordinance and subdivision control ordinance, first readings of ordinances for repealing and replacing ordinances regarding the commercial revitalization rebate program and establishing a fee for non-emergency responses and lift assistance at residenttial care facilities, resolutions regarding Indiana Code, and from the Center Township Trustee regarding the budget.
Both meetings will be live-streamed on YouTube @CityofPlymouth.
If you need special accommodation to attend the meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator at 574-936-2948.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Council will meet on Jan. 12 in the second-floor meeting room of the

Marshall County Building
On the agenda is reorganization of the board, reports from the highway, job classification, and budget and finance subcommittees, board appointments, and additional transfers of appropriations.
The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will be live-streamed on YouTube @MarshallCountyIN
ADA Notice: For special accommodations, please contact the ADA Coordinator at (574) 935-8720 at least two business days prior to the scheduled meeting to request an accommodation.

ARGOS — The Argos Board of Education will hold two meetings on Jan. 13, starting at 7 p.m. with a

Reorganizational meeting, immediately followed by a meeting of the board of finance.
Both meetings will be held in the Dragon Center conference room.

PLYMOUTH — Marshall County Sheriff Matthew Hassel recently presented Life Saving Awards to Chief

Jail Officer Seth Crawford, Jail Records Administrator Ryan Schori, and Jail Officers William Schaetzle and Shalea Harvey for their outstanding actions during a medical emergency at the jail.
On June 24, 2025, Jail Officer Shalea Harvey was monitoring jail cells when she observed what appeared to be an active medical emergency. She immediately alerted the on-duty jail staff to respond.
Jail Officer William Schaetzle was the first to arrive on scene, with the remaining staff following closely behind.
All jailers present that day quickly initiated life-saving measures and continued providing care until emergency responders arrived and assumed responsibility for the individual.
The actions taken by these jailers were honorable and directly contributed to saving a life. Their dedication, professionalism, and refusal to give up exemplify the highest standards of public service. We are proud of these officers and commend them for a job well done.

Pictured left to right Turnkey Records Ryan Schori, Turnkey Dispatcher William Schaetzle, Turnkey Dispatcher Shalea Harvey, and Chief Jail Officer Seth Crawford.

*Press release in its entirety*
MARSHALL COUNTY – Lieutenant Detective Les McFarland of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department

officially filed today to run for Marshall County Sheriff in the 2026 Republican primary. The filing marks the transition from an exploratory phase focused on community engagement to a committed campaign for conservative, experienced leadership.
Since announcing his exploratory committee in August 2025, McFarland has spent the past months meeting with hundreds of Marshall County residents, law enforcement professionals, and civic leaders. These conversations have shaped his vision for the department and reinforced his commitment to serve as Sheriff.
“Over the past several months, I’ve listened to what matters most to Marshall County residents,” McFarland stated. “The priorities are clear: valuing every life, protecting constitutional rights, managing tax dollars wisely, and leading with integrity. These are the principles that have guided my career, and I’m ready to bring that commitment to serving as your Sheriff.”
McFarland’s platform centers on protecting life at every stage, upholding constitutional principles including the Second Amendment, professionalizing department operations, and ensuring fiscal responsibility without compromising public safety and service. His conservative values are rooted in his faith and commitment to law and order.
“I’ve dedicated my career to protecting and serving the people of Marshall County,” McFarland added. “After 30 years with this department and 35 years in law enforcement, I know what strong leadership looks like. I’m committed to bringing that experience, integrity, and accountability to the Sheriff’s office.”
McFarland brings extensive experience across all facets of law enforcement to his candidacy. Beginning his career as a patrolman, he served on the Drug Task Force, working undercover with state and federal agencies to combat drug trafficking organizations. He was later promoted to Detective Sergeant, investigating high-felony cases including theft, domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Following his promotion to Detective First Sergeant, McFarland assumed supervision of the patrol unit while continuing his investigative duties. Since 2023, he has served as Lieutenant Detective, supervising the Detective Bureau and serving as the Department’s Public Information Officer.
“Some of the most meaningful work I’ve done has been liberating children from violent and abusive homes and bringing justice to families in their darkest hours,” McFarland noted. “As Sheriff, I will continue expanding the Detective Bureau to ensure every victim receives the thorough investigation they deserve.”
McFarland’s candidacy has earned support from law enforcement colleagues and community leaders across Marshall County. Ray Gleason, a veteran, author, and reserve law enforcement officer who has known and worked with McFarland for over a decade, is among those who have praised his character and approach to public service.
“Les sees his role with the Marshall County Sheriff’s office as a public trust in which he puts community safety and well-being first,” Gleason stated. “As a law enforcement officer, Les displays a balance of professional competence, integrity, and empathy for others. In his dealings with others, Les stays calm under pressure, especially in tense and emotionally charged situations.”
Additional endorsements are available at McFarlandforSheriff.com.
A graduate of North Putnam High School and Vincennes University with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, McFarland began his law enforcement career with emergency first responder certifications. He served with the Akron Police Department and Bremen Police Department before joining the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, accumulating over 35 years of total law enforcement experience.
McFarland has served on the Bourbon Town Council for 15 years, gaining valuable experience in budget management, grant acquisition, and compliance with eligibility requirements. In 2019, as President of the Bourbon Town Council, he served on the regional Stellar Community team when Marshall County earned its Stellar Community Designation. This experience has prepared him for the fiscal responsibilities and collaborative leadership required of a Sheriff.
Beyond his official duties, McFarland is actively engaged in the community through organizations such as Marshall County Relay for Life, Dustin’s Place, and Operation Quiet Comfort. His community involvement reflects his belief that effective law enforcement requires building strong relationships and trust with the citizens he serves.
The Republican primary election will be held on May 5, 2026, with early voting beginning April 7, 2026. If elected, McFarland would take office on January 1, 2027.
For more information about Les McFarland’s campaign, visit McFarlandForSheriff.com or contact the campaign at McFarlandForSheriff@gmail.com or 574-767-1468.

PLYMOUTH — On the evening of Jan. 5, at 9:30 pm, Plymouth Police were dispatched to the area of

Garro and Fourth Street for an open 911 call.
Marshall County Central Dispatch advised responding officers that an altercation could be heard on the other line; however, no one would answer. When officers arrived at the location on W. Garro Street, the residents were involved in a physical domestic battery.
As a result of the officer’s investigation, it is believed that Jose Ramirez-Padilla, 47, of Plymouth, struck the female victim and grabbed her by the throat. Ramirez-Padilla was taken into custody and, once cleared by medical professionals at the Plymouth Hospital, was transported and lodged at the Marshall County Jail.
Ramirez-Padilla was preliminarily charged with strangulation and domestic battery.

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

PLYMOUTH — On Sunday,​ Jan. 4 Marshall County Sheriff’s Department was ​dispatched to a two-vehicle

unknown injury accident at the intersection of Lincoln Hwy and King Rd.
A Ford Escape, driven by Austin Lalone, 27, was stopped at the stop sign ​at the north side of the intersection of Lincoln Hwy and King Rd. and failed to yield the right of way to a Ford F-150, driven by Jamie Fluery, 46, which was traveling east on Lincoln Hwy.
The driver and passenger of Lalone’s car were transported to Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Plymouth with minor injuries. ​

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Historical Society will present its first “Genealogy Summit for

Beginners” on January 31.
Every family has a story, and you can learn how to trace your roots, uncover hidden stories, and confidently research records across generations.
Three experienced teachers and genealogists will present classes on the research process, beginning with the basics of genealogical research, including charts, forms, and terminology. Classes will cover simple to unusual places to find accurate information about your ancestors. You will learn how to utilize the websites and online services to add depth and context to family narratives.
The cost for the Genealogy Summit is $35, which includes lunch and class packs. We are accepting registrants age 12 and older. Register at the Museum or online at https://mchistoricalsociety.org/event/genealogy-summit-for-beginners/.
The Museum is located at 123 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. Phone 574-936-2306 for more information.

PLYMOUTH — On Dec. 31, at 3:35 a.m., Marshall County Central Dispatch received a 911 call from a

woman in Culver stating that a man, later identified as twenty-nine-year-old Layne J. Manns of Plymouth, was drunk and refusing to leave. According to the caller, Manns had then left the area in a vehicle, possibly headed to the Plymouth area.
A short while later, Officers with the Plymouth Police Department located the vehicle and the man at his residence. A DUI investigation began, and after a search warrant was signed and granted, it was discovered that Manns was operating at over twice the legal limit for alcohol.
Manns was later transported to the Marshall County Jail where he was booked and lodged for: OWI-.15% or higher, OWI-Endangerment, Resisting Law Enforcement, and Disorderly Conduct.

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

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have risen 12.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.77/g

today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana are 7.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 33.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has decreased 2.3 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.498 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Marshall County was in Bourbon at $2.64. The most expensive was in Culver at $2.99. In Starke County, the cheapest was in Hamlet at $2.64, the most expensive in Winamac at $2.99. The cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.19/g yesterday, while the most expensive was $3.19/g, a difference of one dollar per gallon.
The national average price of gasoline has fallen 1.2 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.74/g today.
“Another week, and motorists have been greeted with the sixth straight weekly decline in the national average price of gasoline as seasonality continues to drive trends at the pump,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “While more states did see prices rise this week, most of those increases were in ‘price-cycling’ markets, where routine jumps often follow larger declines. Elsewhere, a majority of states saw prices inch lower again. And with GasBuddy’s 2026 Fuel Outlook set for release this week, we’ll soon have a clearer sense of what drivers may face next year— particularly as new developments in Venezuela put fresh attention on the global oil market. Some Americans believe gasoline prices could be impacted in a significant way, but I’m here to throw a bit of cold water on that. Even under the most optimistic outcomes, it could take years of positive developments for additional supply to meaningfully move the needle, and the impact on U.S. gasoline prices may ultimately be limited. For now, I expect gas prices to bottom out in the weeks ahead before beginning their seasonal climb toward March.”
GasBuddy is North America’s trusted fuel savings platform, helping consumers fuel up for less for over 25 years. It is the most authoritative source of station-level fuel pricing data, updating averages 288 times daily.

PLYMOUTH — In their Monday morning meeting, the Marshall County Commissioners voted unanimously

to oppose the reclassification of Bridge #231 — the N. Center Street Bridge in Bremen.
Jason Peters informed the board that the current schedule would have bid letting for the project in August, but that the ongoing discussions would likely push back that timetable.
The bridge has been the subject of discussion for some time. In a Jan. 2 meeting in 2024, Peters told the Commissioners — at that time Stan Klotz, Mike Burroughs, and Kevin Overmyer — that the recommendation of the project Engineers, DLZ, was for a full bridge replacement. A “red flag” investigation by INDOT was prompted by a historian’s letter saying the bridge is a historic site. In December, the DNR nominated the bridge for the National Registry of Historic Places, further complicating the project.
DLZ’s Andy Kostielny informed the Commissioners on Monday that in such cases, the price of the repair would be higher and the bridge’s longevity would decrease.
Commissioner Jesse Bohannon made a motion to oppose the reclassification of the bridge.

The hearing on the reclassification is currently scheduled for Jan. 14.

PLYMOUTH — On Wednesday,​ Dec. 31,​ at 11:34 PM,​ Marshall County Police and Plymouth Fire

responded to the area of State Road 17 and 10B Road for reports of a single vehicle accident with an overturned vehicle.
Upon arrival,​ Marshall County Officers located the vehicle in a front yard on its side. He was able to make contact with the two occupants in the vehicle to verify they were OK. Plymouth Fire was able to safely help them from the overturned vehicle.
The driver,​ Ashli Tanner,​ refused medical treatment with no injuries. A passenger in the vehicle,​ Matthew Ganshorn,​ was examined by EMS and was transported to St. Joseph Hospital in Plymouth. During the investigation,​ it was found that the driver lost control of the vehicle southbound on State Road 17 just south of 10B Road due to the extreme icy roadway conditions. The vehicle ran off the roadway and struck a small tree,​ causing the vehicle to overturn onto the passenger side.
Tim’s Towing was requested to the scene to remove the vehicle.