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Washington County, Indiana (October 21, 2024) – During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we raise awareness of the impact of domestic violence and renew efforts to bring an end to this issue.

Domestic violence unfortunately continues to be one of the most underreported crimes. Statistics show that as much as 40% of women and 26% of men in Indiana have experienced some form of violence by a partner or spouse. These cases remain among the most difficult and complex cases to investigate and to ensure victim safety in the future.

This type of violence may include physical, verbal, sexual, or psychological abuse including stalking, harassment, intimidation, isolation, financial control and more. Unfortunately, there are many reasons that make it difficult for domestic violence survivors to leave an abusive relationship (children, pets, finances, housing, love, etc.). This situation may seem difficult for the outside world to understand and collectively it can leave survivors feeling unsupported and hopeless.

“It’s crucial that survivors of domestic violence have the support from our office and community,” said Washington County Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt. “Too often these heinous acts go unreported for a wide variety of reasons, and many victims feel trapped with nowhere to go or are worried no one will believe them. We must educate ourselves on understanding domestic violence and how we can best support victims and their families."

If you suspect a friend or family member may be experiencing domestic violence, pay attention to signs such as isolation, low self-esteem, unexplained injuries and depression or anxiety. Express these concerns to your loved one and encourage outreach to individuals and organizations who can provide help and guidance, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline or local support centers and groups.

“Domestic violence is never acceptable,” said Prosecutor Hunt. “No partner, child, or parent should feel fear in their own home or be afraid of abuse from the people closest to them. We, as a community, must educate on the warning signs of domestic violence and have resources readily available for victims.”

If you recognize physical or emotional abuse in your own relationship, there is help. Reach out to trusted friends or community organizations, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Together, we can stop generational cycles of abuse and create a brighter future for our families and homes in the future.

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According to the Indiana State Police, around 9:20 p.m., Sergeant Tracy Spencer was patrolling State Road 56 near US Highway 31 when he observed a motorcycle traveling west on SR56 doing a wheelie. After the motorcycle’s front wheel was back on the ground and had driven past Sergeant Spencer, he turned around behind the vehicle and attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the motorcycle. The motorcycle accelerated by another motorist before disregarding a red traffic light.

The motorcycle rider continued to flee from law enforcement, disregarding multiple stop signs at intersections in Scottsburg as well as driving off road through grass. During the pursuit, the motorcycle had traveled head on at a Scott County deputy before turning.

At US 31 near Fairground Road, the motorcycle again left the roadway, driving between homes in the subdivision. The motorcycle was abandoned in the yard of a home on Jarin Court, where the rider fled on foot.

While speaking with residents in the area, Sergeant Spencer learned that the rider lived at the home in which the motorcycle had been abandoned. 29-year-old Christian Lindebald voluntarily came out of his home and was placed into custody without incident.

Lindebald was transported to the Scott County Jail where he was processed and lodged. He was charged with Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle (Level 6 Felony) and Reckless Driving (Class C Misdemeanor).

For more information, contact Master Trooper Philip T. Hensley at (812) 571-0874 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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A 2022 Kroger delivery van rolled over after driving off the road on Tuesday, October 22. The driver, Steven Williams from Conway, Arkansas, reportedly fell asleep at the wheel while driving along 5930 E Borden Rd.

Witnesses say the van began to veer to the left of the center line and drifted off the left side causing the rollover. Williams was transported to St. Vincent Hospital due to complaints of head pain.

Washington County Sheriff’s Department and EMS were both dispatched to the scene. Assisted by Chief Deputy Brad Shepherd, Deputy Paul Reyling led the investigation.

Rollover 2

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By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will be holding its 27th nationwide “Prescription Take Back” initiative. They provide proper disposal of prescription drugs in order to prevent prescription drug abuse. Community members will be able to bring unused, expired and unwanted drugs to select sites.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department, a select “Prescription Take Back” site located at 801 S Jackson St, Salem, will be hosting their quarterly drive from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. They will take most items and medications, however they will not take vape products or needles. The department will have a drive thru area where you simply hand off the medicine to a standby attendant. No questions asked. They then are incinerated the same day, which is the approved method of disposal. Flushing medicine down the toilet or throwing them in the trash is never advised.

This program addresses vital safety and public health issues. Medicines in the home cabinet are subject to diversion, misuse and abuse. Sometimes obtained from family and friends, prescription drug abuse is at an all-time high. There is a high number of accidental poisoning and overdoses. Needles new or used will not be taken. The Washington County Sheriff will also be collecting non-perishable food which will be donated to local food banks in Salem. Sheriff Brent Miller said, “The food drive is very successful; we usually get 300 to 500 food items.”

The Sellersburg Indiana State Police Post, located at 8014 County Rd 311, Sellersburg, or any ISP posts will be set up to take prescription liquid and pill drugs. They will also take vape pens without batteries and cartridges. However, like the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, they will not take needles regardless if they are new or used. ISP collection lasts from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

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Halloween will be here before you know it!

The Washington County Family YMCA in Salem is planning a trail with booths that hand out candy.

Approximately 600 kids are expected to attend the event on Saturday, Oct. 26, 4-6 p.m., at the YMCA, 1709 North Shelby Street, Salem.

The Y needs a little help with this event and is seeking individuals, businesses and organizations to take part in the walking trail.

If you would like to set up a booth along the trail, contact Gavan Doane at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Wednesday, October 2.