Vehicle involved
1992 Toyota Paseo, 2-door passenger vehicle, teal

Seatbelt
Seatbelt was used and possibly saved the driver's life

Alcohol
Alcohol was not a factor

Driver #1
Toshio Imai, 69 years-old, East Lansing, MI

Injuries to Driver #1
The driver was conscious and talking at the scene.  He did not appear to have any significant injuries.  He did have a few scrapes and bruises, but did not complain of any injuries.  He was transported by VBEMS to Bronson Hospital to be evaluated.

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Deputies were dispatched to a one-car rollover accident on I-94 at the 55 mile marker in Paw Paw Township.  Upon arrival, it was found that Imai had managed to get himself out of the vehicle and was lying next to the car.  Two off-duty nurses and one off-duty doctor had stopped to assist with the accident and were first on-scene.  Deputy Tate, along with Officer Tarner from the Paw Paw Police Department, investigated the scene and determined that the vehicle was traveling eastbound on I-94 near the 46th St. overpass.  It had just passed a semi-truck and was re-entering the slow lane of traffic when it ran off the roadway on the right side of the road.  Imai had over-corrected after running off the roadway and came back on the road, losing control.  The vehicle then ran off the roadway into the median and was reported by a witness to have rolled over 5 times.  The vehicle came to rest in the median upside down.  The vehicle was completely totaled and Imai's seatbelt was believed to have saved his life and prevent any major injuries.  The Sheriff's Office and Paw Paw PD were assisted by Van Buren Emergency Medical Services, Paw Paw Quick Response and Michigan State Police.  The driver was not cited for the accident and was released from Bronson Hospital.  The crash investigation is closed at this time.

Contact persons
On-duty sergeant or
Lt. Bill Lux at (269) 657-3101

Suspect Information
33 year old Decatur woman (name withheld pending arraignment)

Injuries
Minor cuts (refused EMS treatment)

Vehicle
2002 Chevrolet Malibu, 4-door

Passenger
39 year-old Decatur man

Injuries
None reported (refused EMS treatment)

Seat Belts used
Both subjects were wearing their seatbelts

Alcohol
Alcohol was a factor in the crash

Criminal charges
The driver was arrested for Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated and Transporting Open Intoxicants in a Motor Vehicle

Narrative
Sheriff Dale. R Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to the 94000 block of 40th St. in Decatur Township for a personal injury accident.  Upon arrival at the scene, deputies made contact with a 33 year-old Decatur woman who advised she was driving the vehicle.  The woman advised that a tire had blown on the vehicle, causing her to lose control and go off of the roadway.  She stated that after she lost control the vehicle went down a large embankment and rolled over before coming to a stop in a yard adjacent to a residence.

While speaking with the woman, deputies detected a strong odor of intoxicants.  The woman performed sobriety evaluations and a PBT was administered.  The driver was arrested for the above listed charges and lodged in the Van Buren County Jail.

Investigating Officer
Deputy Travis Bernatche

Contact Person
On-duty Sergeant or Lt. William Lux at (269) 657-3101

Arrested
44 year-old male, Mattawan, MI (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges
Fleeing and eluding

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports detectives from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit and officers from the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement team went to the above address to investigate illegal drug activity.  Detectives went to the door to make contact with the homeowner with no response.  K9 Sgt. Scott Schmitt from the VBC S/O uniform response division was requested to the address.  While detectives were talking to Sgt. Schmitt, the garage door of the residence opened and the homeowner came out driving a motorcycle.  Detectives went over to make contact with the driver and he sped off at a high rate of speed.  Sgt. Schmitt pursued the motorcycle going west towards Mattawan.  The motorcycle driver drove down into ditches to pass several cars and came up to the intersection of Red Arrow Hwy and 24th Street.  The driver attempted to turn north and struck a vehicle that was sitting at the red light.  The motorcycle continued north on 24th Ave.  Sgt Schmitt observed the driver pulling plastic baggies out of his pockets and raising them into the air.  A white cloud of powder was seen, followed by the driver tossing down the plastic baggies.  The driver was caught a short distance down the road.  He was taken into custody and transported to the VBC Jail and lodged.  He will be arraigned in the VBC 7th District Court in Paw Paw on the charge of fleeing and eluding.

As a result of the pursuit, detectives from the VBC S/O obtained a search warrant for the residence.  VBC detectives and officers from KVET executed the search warrant.  Located during the search was marijuana, methamphetamine, several components used in the manufacturing of meth, drug paraphernalia and scales.  This incident remains under investigation.  Once laboratory reports are received, a complete copy of this report will be forwarded to the VBC Prosecutors office for additional charges of Operating/Maintaining lab involving meth, possession of meth and possession with intent to deliver marijuana. Also seized during the search were two vehicles and approx $4,000.00 in US currency.  These items were seized under the civil forfeiture laws.  CPS also assisted at the scene to check the welfare of a 7 year-old boy.

Anyone with information can contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at (269) 657-3101, Crime Stoppers 1-800-342-7867, Silent Observer (269) 343-2100 or your local Police Department.

Assisting agencies
Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team
Children Protective Services
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Uniform Response Division

Investigating detectives
Van Buren County Narcotics Unit

Supervisor contact
Bryan R. Stump D/Lt.
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office
Narcotics Unit
205 S. Kalamazoo St.
Paw Paw, MI 49079
Phone (269) 657-3101 Ext 208
Fax (269) 657-5161
stumpb@vbco.org

Operator/Injuries
Heather Todd, 24 year-old female from Dowagiac.  Todd received trauma to various parts of her body for which she was transported by ambulance to Lee Memorial Hospital in Dowagiac for non-life threatening injuries.  She was wearing her seatbelt.

Vehicle information
2002 Toyota Corolla 4-door passenger car; sustained extensive damage

Speed/Alcohol
Speed is believed to be a factor; alcohol was not a factor

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Deputies, along with additional emergency services personnel, were dispatched to the 47000 block of Valley Road for a report of a personal injury crash.  Emergency personnel discovered the driver, Heather Todd, had managed to pull herself from a ravine over 12 feet deep into which she had crashed.  The driver was able to flag down a passing motorist, who summoned emergency personnel to the scene.   After speaking to the driver, the investigation concluded she had taken her eyes off the road momentarily, during which time she lost control of her car and went off the road, hit several trees, and came to rest in the deep ravine.  The driver was transported by ambulance to Lee Memorial Hospital in Dowagiac for treatment of her injuries.  She was also cited by Deputies for careless driving.

Investigating Officer
Sergeant David Walker, Uniform Response Division

Contact persons
On-duty Sergeant or
Operation Lt. William Lux
(269) 657-3101

On August 5, 2008, Christina York, a 34 year-old female, was arrested on a 3-count felony from a meth lab investigation that took place on May 16, 2008 in Bangor.  She was charged with:

Count 1:  Conspiracy to operate/maintain lab involving methamphetamine

Count 2:  Operating/Maintaining lab involving methamphetamine

Count 3:  Possession of Methamphetamine

She was arrested without incident and transported to the Van Buren County Jail and lodged.  She will be arraigned in the Van Buren County 7th District Court in South Haven.

Full release below:

Arrested May 16
33 year-old male, Kalamazoo, MI  
Charges:  Operate/Maintain Lab involving Meth and Hazardous Waste

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Narcotics detectives had received information of possible drug activity at 401 Arlington St. in the City of Bangor.  After finding out the identity of the possible suspects, detectives contacted detectives from WEMET, who said they were familiar with the suspects.  WEMET detectives assisted in the City of Bangor with surveillance.  A vehicle left the residence and a traffic stop was conducted by Bangor City Police Dept. and deputies from the VBC Sheriff's Office Uniform Response Division.  The 33 year-old male was driving the vehicle and the passenger was the 34 year-old female, who is the homeowner of the residence.  While detectives interviewed the occupants of the vehicle, other detectives went to the residence.  After receiving consent, a search of the premises was conducted by narcotics detectives.  Located in a small shed was an active vessel, along with several components used in the manufacturing of meth.  Finished methamphetamine was located inside the residence.  Also living there was the 34 year-old's three children: 11 years-old, 13 years-old and 17 years-old.  Children Protective Services assisted on scene and an emergency hearing was set up.  The DEA was contacted for clean up and Drug Lab Disposal was dispatched to the scene out of Plainwell, MI, to clean up the hazardous waste.  A pickup truck used to drive around and collect pseudoephedrine and other components was seized under civil forfeiture laws.  The 33 year-old male subject, who has a previous meth lab charge, was transported to the VBC Jail and lodged.  Charges are still pending on the remaining three subjects.   The Incident remains under investigation and, once completed, the report will be forwarded to the Van Buren County Prosecutors office for additional charges.

Assisting agencies
Van Buren County Sheriff Uniform Response
Bangor City Police Department
West Michigan Enforcement Team
DEA
Children Protective Services
Drug and Lab Disposal

Investigating detectives
Van Buren County Narcotics Unit

Supervisor contact
Bryan R. Stump D/Lt.
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office
Narcotics Unit
205 S. Kalamazoo St.
Paw Paw, MI 49079
Phone (269) 657-3101 Ext. 208
Fax (269) 657-5161
stumpb@vbco.org

Driver/Suspect #1
44 year-old female from Lacato (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges #1
1. OWI 
2. Violation of Restricted License 
3. Transport of Open Intoxicants

Vehicle
Green Golf Cart

Passenger/Suspect #2
44 year-old Grand Junction man (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges #2
1. Open Intoxicants
2. Littering

Passenger/Suspect #3
47 year-old Lacato man (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges #3
1. Open Intoxicants

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Van Buren County Sheriff's Office deputies on patrol noted what appeared to be a motorized vehicle operating westbound on the Kal-Haven trail near 62nd street in Geneva Township.  Deputies entered the Kal-Haven trail to check and found the vehicle to be a 4-wheeled golf cart that was being operated by 3 subjects.  As the deputy approached them, one of the passengers began tossing items from the cart, which were later discovered to be open 12 ounce cans of beer.  Deputies stopped the golf cart, due to the trail being clearly marked for non-motorized vehicles, except for snowmobiles in the winter months.  The operator of the golf cart, the 44-year-old Lacato woman, was found to be operating a motorized vehicle while intoxicated and was arrested.  Additional charges were that of violation of a restricted operator's license and having an open container of alcohol.  The passengers also were cited for possession of alcohol violations and littering, as they had attempted to discard the alcohol they were consuming by throwing it off the cart into the wood line while the deputy was attempting to stop them.

Arresting Officer
Deputy Kyle Romeo, Uniform Response Division

Contact persons
On duty sergeant or
Lt. William Lux
(269) 657-3101

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that in the early morning hours of 08-01-2008, deputies from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a larceny from a motor vehicle that had occurred from a residence in the 59000 block of Whitewood Drive (Dalewood Estates Subdivision).  During the course of the investigation, deputies found that twelve separate residences had been victimized by items having been taken from their unlocked vehicles, unlocked garages or unlocked sheds. The investigation remains open.

Victims
Multiple

Suspect(s)
Unknown

Anyone with information can please contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at (269) 657-3101, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-342-7867 or Silent Observer at (269) 343-2100.

Investigating officers
Deputy Josh Staggs
(269) 657-3101

Deputy Casey Davis
(269) 657-3101

Detective Gabrielle Rought
(269) 657-7711

Supervisor contact
Sergeant Dennis Harvey
(269) 657-3101

or Duty Supervisor
Detective Sergeant Tom Macyauski
(269) 657-7711

Operator/Injuries
James Green, 76 year-old Paw Paw man.  Green received bumps, bruises and abrasions for which he was transported by ambulance to Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw for treatment.  He was wearing a helmet.

Vehicle information
125cc Scooter

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Van Buren County Sheriff Deputies and additional emergency response personnel were dispatched to the intersection of CR 653 and 48th Avenue for a personal injury crash.  Emergency responders on scene discovered James Green's motor scooter had lost control as he was attempting to make a right hand turn.  Green traveled off the road still on his scooter, which then hit a stop sign at this intersection, ejecting him off the scooter and into the grass.  Green was in the process of driving the motor scooter home after purchasing it in Kalamazoo.  Green was transported by ambulance to Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw for treatment of his injuries sustained in the crash.

Investigating Officer
Sergeant David Walker
Uniform Response Division

Contact persons
On-duty Sergeant or
Operations Lt. William Lux
(269) 657-3101

Arrested
34 year-old female, Decatur (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges
Operate/maintain lab involving meth; Manufacture marijuana; Resisting & obstructing
Arrested
36 year-old male, Decatur (name withheld pending arraignment)

Charges
Operate/maintain lab involving meth; Manufacture marijuana

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit had received a citizen tip in reference to a chemical odor coming from a residence on 39th Street.  Detectives investigated the odor and went to the address along with deputies from the uniform response division.  A 34 year-old female answered the door and stepped outside to speak with the detectives.  She said the only other person at the house was her 15 year-old son.  The 34 year-old admitted to drug paraphernalia being in the house, but refused to give consent.  When she was told a search warrant was going to be obtained, she attempted to run back into the house and tried to slam the door on the detectives.  While the search warrant was being obtained, the 36 year-old male arrived home.  After obtaining the search warrant, the house and premises were searched.  A makeshift anhydrous ammonia tank, chemicals, and other items used to manufacture methamphetamine were located inside the house.  Located outside, planted along the back side of the house, were 17 marijuana plants.  Detectives contacted CPS in reference to the 15 year-old boy.  Both adults were taken into custody and transported to the Van Buren County Jail and lodged, pending arraignment in the 7th District Court.  The 15 year-old boy was removed from the home and taken into protective custody by CPS.  A copy of the report will be forwarded to the Van Buren County Prosecutors office for review.

If you have information about this or any crime, contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at (269) 657-3101, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-342-7867, Silent Observer at (269) 343-2100, or your local police department.

Assisting agencies
Children Protective Services
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Uniform Response Division

Investigating Detectives
Van Buren County Narcotics Unit

Supervisor Contact
Bryan R. Stump D/Lt.
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office
Narcotics Unit
205 S. Kalamazoo St.
Paw Paw, MI 49079
Phone (269) 657-3101 Ext. 208
Fax (269) 657-5161
stumpb@vbco.org

Driver
42 year-old male from Illinois

Passengers
7 year-old male, 5 year-old female, 3 year-old female (all three children were the driver's children)

Vehicle
2002 Dodge Grand Caravan Blue in color

Alcohol
Was present during arrest

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that a citizen called in a possible drunk driver to dispatch, giving the above vehicle description and general location.  A deputy was near the area, located the vehicle, and observed poor driving prior to the traffic stop.  After the deputy made contact with the driver and investigated the situation further, it was found the driver was intoxicated and was on his way home to Illinois.  Family members were called to the scene to take the children and vehicle from the scene.  The driver refused to submit to the Breath Test and a search warrant was obtained to draw blood, which will be sent to the crime lab.  The subject was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail.  His name will be released after his arraignment.

Investigating deputy
Daniel Abbott
(269) 657-3101

Contact person
On-duty supervisor
(269) 657-3101

Vehicle
2-Door Red 1995 Honda CEX

Driver/Suspect
Gina Marie Dixon, 38 years-old, Decatur area

Arraigned
7-28-08 in 7th District Court East on the OWI 2nd, DWLS and Accident, Fail to Stop and ID charges.  The defendant posted $150.00 bond and was released.  The next scheduled court date is 8-05-08 in 7th District Court East.

Injuries
None

Alcohol/Drugs
Alcohol was a factor in this crash

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies responded to a car vs. tree accident at the above location. Upon arrival, it was discovered the suspect had fled the scene. Witnesses provided a direction of travel for the suspect and a K-9 unit was called to the scene. The K-9 track was successful and the suspect was taken into custody without incident. She was discovered to be highly intoxicated and has a prior OWI arrest from July of 2006 in Indiana. Suspect is still on probation for that arrest.

Arrest
Suspect was arrested for OWI 2nd, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Driving While License Suspended 1st, and issued a citation for No Proof of Insurance

Investigating Officer
Deputy Raymond W. Hochsprung

K9 Officer and K-9
K-9 Deputy Jason Stasienko and K-9 Vento

Assisting Agencies
Sister Lakes Fire Department

Supervisor Contact
Please contact the on-duty supervisor at 657-3101 or
Lt. William Lux at 657-3101
LuxW@vbco.org

Driver
21 year-old male from Portage.  The driver was arrested for transportation of open intoxicants in a motor vehicle, driving while license suspended 2nd offense, and for furnishing alcohol to minors. He was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail for the above listed offenses. His name may be released after arraignment.

Passenger #1
15 year-old female from Kalamazoo. The front seat passenger was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol by consumption and for possession of open intoxicants in a motor vehicle. Her name may be released after arraignment.

Passenger #2
19 year-old male from Portage. The rear seat passenger was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol by consumption and for possession of open intoxicants in a motor vehicle. He was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail for the above listed offenses.  His name may be released after arraignment.

Passenger #3:
17 year-old female from Kalamazoo. The rear seat passenger was arrested for possession of marijuana, minor in possession of alcohol by consumption, and possession of open intoxicants in a motor vehicle. She was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail for the above listed offenses. Her name may be released after arraignment.

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Deputies made a traffic stop on a vehicle on M-43 Hwy near 31st Street in Almena Township for speeding. Upon making contact with the driver of the vehicle, it was discovered that he did not have a valid license. He was arrested, the vehicle was searched, and open containers of alcohol were located inside the vehicle. The three passengers were all under 21 years of age and had all consumed alcohol. One of the passengers also possessed marijuana. All occupants of the vehicle were subsequently arrested and were lodged at the Van Buren County Jail. The vehicle was then impounded.

Investigating Deputy
Deputy John Stolsonburg
(269) 657-3101 Ext. 823

Supervisor Contact
On Duty Supervisor
(269) 657-3101

Updated information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that the 10-year-old Paw Paw boy that was the victim in this dog attack is now in Bronson hospitals recovery after losing his right arm during surgery from the wounds sustained. The parents of the 10-year-old boy have asked investigators to respectfully withhold the minor's name. The investigation into the attack is continuing. The dogs name provided to officers was that of "Torco".

Victim/Injuries
Patrick Crouch, a 10 year-old Paw Paw boy, sustained injuries so severe to his right arm that it is being amputated; numerous punctures on various other body parts.

Dog information
2 year-old male pit bull

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Van Buren County Animal Control and Uniformed road patrol Deputies were called the Bronson/Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw, which reported a 10 year-old boy in the emergency room with critical injuries sustained in a dog bite/attack incident. Deputies arriving at the hospital discovered that the boy was stabilized and being rushed to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo for emergency surgery for injuries sustained from a pit bull attack. Investigation showed the boy was left home alone for a short period of time, during which the family's 2 year-old pit bull attacked the boy for reasons unknown. When the victim's brother arrived home, he noted the dog still attacking the boy. The brother was able to get the dog to release its hold on his brother. Noting the severe injuries sustained to the 10 year-old, his brother immediately took him to the local hospital in Paw Paw. Deputies went to the home on Brachetto Drive and took custody of the pit bull, taking it to the Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter in Hartford where the dog, still aggressive, was put down by kennel staff. The 10 year-old victim remains in critical condition at this time. The parents, who were in Indiana, have been notified and are currently en route to Bronson to be with their son. Investigation is continuing into this incident and will be forwarded to the county prosecutor's office for review.

Investigating Deputies
Deputies Rich Rennhack, Animal Control Division
Deputy Dan Abbott, Uniform Response Division

Contact Persons
On-duty supervisor or
Operations Lieutenant William Lux
(269) 657-3101

Suspect information
Pedro Diaz

Arraigned
7-28-08 in Paw Paw District Court on: Cruelty to Animals, Domestic Violence-Felony, Resisting Officer and Damage to Private Property charges.  The defendant remains lodged at the Van Buren County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 cash or surety bond.  A preliminary examination is scheduled for 8-05-08 at 8:30 a.m. in Paw Paw District Court.

Suspect injuries
Numerous scratches from fleeing through brush and woods and taser probe related puncture wounds to chest and groin (refused medical treatment)

Victim information
White female (wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons)

Victim injuries
Large bump on forehead and cuts to elbow (refused medical treatment)

Relationship
Suspect and victim were in a dating relationship and resided together

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to the above location for a call of domestic violence assault. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the victim, who advised she was assaulted by her boyfriend earlier that day when he struck her in the head with a beer can. Victim stated she then dropped him off in the Hartford area and went home. The suspect got a ride back to their residence and forced his way in and threatened the victim. The victim ran to her vehicle and hid inside when the suspect picked up a large rock and threw it at the windshield twice and through the back window, causing flying glass to injure the victim's elbow. The suspect then picked up the victim's pregnant Chihuahua and threw it at her through the broken back window, causing injury to the dog. The suspect fled the scene and was tracked by a K-9. The K-9 successfully tracked the suspect, who was taken into custody after resisting arrest and being tasered by deputies. This was the second incident of domestic violence involving the suspect in 2 weeks. The prior incident occurred in Cass Co., where the suspect assaulted the victim and fled the scene. The Cass Co. Prosecutor's Office did not authorize a warrant on the suspect in that incident.

Arrested
The suspect was arrested for Felony Domestic Violence, Felony Animal Cruelty, Felony MDOP, and Resisting and Obstructing

Investigating officer
Deputy Raymond W. Hochsprung

K-9 Deputy and K-9
K-9 Deputy Kevin VanBrussel and K-9 Xack

Assisting agencies
Hartford Police Department
Decatur Police Department
Cass County Sheriff's Office

Supervisor contact
Please contact the on-duty supervisor at 657-3101 or
Lt. William Lux at 657-3101
LuxW@vbco.org

Transportation equipment involved
Two small red kayaks

Alcohol
Alcohol is a factor

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to a larceny on Cedar Lake in Porter Township. Upon arrival, the victim reported that two teenage males paddled two kayaks across the lake and broke into a his tiki bar by the beach, stealing several cases of beer and a case of Red Bull. Suspects were located across the lake and through investigation the kayaks were found, as well as a trail of cans in the lake leading to the suspects' residence. Two teen males were arrested for the larceny; a separate male was arrested for possession of marijuana; and several others were arrested for minor in possession of alcohol. A total of seven were arrested, with ages ranging from 15 to 18. Names are all being withheld at the present time pending appearance in court.

Investigating officers
Deputy Pentland and Deputy Staggs

Supervisor Contact
Lt. Bill Lux
(269) 657-6255

Arrested
Six minors were arrested for MIP: two 17 year-old males and one 17 year-old female from Lawton; one 19 year-old male from Fennville; one 16 year-old female and one 14 year-old female from Lawton

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to the 29,000 block of Jewels Drive because several minors were walking down the street, appearing to be intoxicated. Upon arrival it was determined that the subjects walking down the street were under the age of 21 and had been consuming alcohol. Deputies were then directed to a residence by the first two subjects where they found an MIP party underway. After contact with the homeowner, several other minors were also found to be intoxicated. The minors ranged in age from 17 to 14. All minors over the age of 16 were lodged at the Van Buren County Jail; all minors under the age of 16 were issued misdemeanor citations and turned over to their parents. In all, 6 minors were arrested for the offense of Minor in Possession of Alcohol by Consumption. One minor was arrested for possession of alcohol in the same area after the party in an unrelated incident. A total of 7 minors were arrested in the area for MIP. Deputies are seeking charges for the homeowner for contributing and allowing minors to consume alcohol.

Investigating Deputies
Deputy Greg Pentland and Deputy Josh Staggs

Assisting Agencies
Lawton Police Department, Paw Paw Police Department

Contact Person
On-duty supervisor
(269) 657-3101

Arrested
Amy Hunt, 33 year-old, Grand Junction

Vehicle Information:
1999 Ford Explorer

Seized property
Suspected narcotics

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies attempted to stop a vehicle on CR 665 near 28th Avenue for speeding. As deputies attempted to do so, the vehicle accelerated to speeds nearing 100 mph. At the intersection of M-43 highway, the suspect vehicle failed to stop at the stop sign and continued to flee westbound on M-43. The suspect passed many vehicles until reaching a private driveway in the 43000 block, where the suspect turned and continued to drive at high speeds for several hundred yards. At the end of the driveway and with nowhere to go, the driver abruptly stopped, jumped out of her car and fled on foot, where the deputy was able to arrest her. The driver was found to have indicators of being under the influence of alcohol. The driver was found to have a suspended license and open alcohol was found within the vehicle. The suspect was lodged in the Van Buren County Jail on the listed offenses and held pending arraignment in Paw Paw District Court. Assisting were troopers from the Michigan State Police Paw Paw post.

Arresting Officer
Sergeant David Walker
Uniform Response Division

Contact Persons
On-duty supervisor or
Operations Lieutenant William Lux
269-657-3101

Vehicle #1
1999 Buick LeSabre four-door

Driver #1
Terri Ann Hagen, 46 years-old, Kalamazoo

Passengers Vehicle #1
Ashley Nicole Hagen, 16 years-old, Kalamazoo
Cody Leroy Hagen, 9 years-old, Kalamazoo

Injuries
All three subjects in vehicle number one were transported by VBEMS Ambulance to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo.  Terri was treated and released, Cody was treated for multiple fractures to his leg (unknown if he's been released), and Ashley was treated and released for minor injuries.

Driver #2
Thomas Shuster, 50 years-old, Portage

Vehicle #2
1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse two-door

Injuries #2
None

Weather
Rain, visibility was limited

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that a personal injury crash occurred on M-43 at the intersection of Fish Hatchery Rd. in Almena Township.  Terri Hagen was stopped headed south bound on Fish Hatchery Rd.  She stated she thought that the intersection was clear and did not see Thomas Shuster eastbound on M-43.  Hagen failed to yield right of way across M-43 and crossed into the path of Shuster, whose vehicle hit Hagen's on the passenger side.  Terri was trapped in the vehicle and Mattawan Fire used the Jaws of Life to remove her.

Assisting Agencies
Mattawan Fire and Rescue
Van Buren Emergency Medical Services

Investigating Officer
Deputy Trever Tate
657-3101

Contact person
On-duty supervisor
657-3101

Arrested
44 year-old male, Hartford
CHARGES:
Count 1 - PWID Cocaine 
Count 2 - PWID Marijuana

32 year-old female, Hartford    
CHARGES: 
Count 1 - PWID Cocaine 
Count 2 - PWID Marijuana

Suspect
20 year-old male, Hartford
CHARGES: 
Possession of Marijuana will be sought at a later date

*** NAMES WILL BE RELEASED AFTER ARRAIGNMENT***

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit had conducted a four-month investigation into the subjects distributing cocaine and marijuana from their residence after citizen complaints of heavy traffic in and out of the residence.  A search warrant was issued by the 7th District Court West Magistrate for the residence and executed July 18th. The search of the residence resulted in the seizure of approximately ½ oz. of marijuana, 4.5 grams of cocaine, scale, packaging material and U.S. Currency.  The two arrest subjects resided at this residence, along with the 20 year-old suspect, who is the son of the 44 year-old male. The 20 year-old was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and charges will be sought at a later date after receiving a crime lab report.  Both arrested subjects were taken into custody and are being held at the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office pending review by the Prosecutor's Office and arraignment on the charges sought.  Assisting the Narcotics unit was the Van Buren County Emergency Services Unit, Van Buren County Uniform Response Division and the Hartford City Police Department.  The investigation remains open pending additional investigation.

Anyone with information on this investigation and/or any other crime is asked to contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at 269.657.3101, their local police department, Crime Stoppers at 1.800.342.7867 or Silent Observer at 343.2100.

Investigating officers
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit

Supervisor contact
Lieutenant Bryan Stump
(269) 657-7711 ext. 208
stumpb@vbco.org

**UPDATED INFORMATION**

On Friday, 7-18-2008, detectives from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office continued investigating the allegations made by a 13 year-old Bloomingdale girl that she was sexually assaulted on the Kal-Haven Trail.  The investigation showed that the incident did not occur and that the girl fabricated the story. The case is still being investigated and the report will be forwarded to the Juvenile Court, requesting a juvenile petition for filing a false felony police report.

Contact Person
D/Sgt. Macyauski
(269) 657-7711

(Original complaint)

Victim/Injuries
13 year-old female from Bloomingdale/victim received minor injuries during the assault

Suspect
Adult white male, wearing a dark colored shirt and jeans; suspect has a thin build and has what the victim describes as pale skin, dark or brown colored hair

Weapon
None

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Van Buren County Sheriff Deputies responded to the Village of Bloomingdale for a report of a Criminal Sexual Assault that had just occurred on the Kal-Haven trail in this area. Deputies made contact with the victim, who stated she was riding her bike down the Kal-Haven trail when she stopped momentarily to rest. While resting, a subject came from behind her, tackling her to the ground and then covering the victim's mouth and eyes with his hand while he sexually assaulted her. The victim was able to scream, after which the suspect then fled on foot from the scene of the assault in an easterly direction into a wooded area. The victim then fled to a safe area and summoned for help. Van Buren County Sheriff Deputies, Detectives and Michigan State Troopers checked the surrounding area for the suspect described as a white male, thin build and dark colored hair. K-9 units from the Sheriff's Office were able to track the suspect southeast of the location to Walnut Street, still in the Village of Bloomingdale, where the track then stopped. The victim was taken to Lakeview Hospital for treatment. Anyone with information that could assist with this investigation is asked to please call the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at 269-657-3101, Silent Observer 866-774-2345, Crime Stoppers 800-342-7867 or any Law Enforcement agency.

Investigating Officers
Van Buren County Uniform Response Division
Van Buren County Detective Bureau
Michigan State Police Police

Contact Persons
D/Lt Bryan Stump
269-657-7711

Operation Lt. William Lux
269-657-3101

Victim
Name withheld at this time

Suspect
Craig Anthony Wheeler, 47 years-old

Arraigned
Arraigned in 7th District Court Paw Paw on the charge of CSC 4th

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports deputies were dispatched to the northeast area of Paw Paw Township regarding a sexual assault complaint.  Investigation revealed that a female victim was in a hot tub at the rear of the residence when she was sexually accosted by being grabbed from behind.  The victim stated she screamed and the suspect released his hold on her and fled the scene.  Van Buren K-9 unit was able to track the suspect to a nearby residence where he was staying.  Through investigation, deputies were able to obtain positive identification of the suspect from the victim at nearby location.  The suspect was found to be a 47 year-old male from Paw Paw who recently moved to the area from the Kalamazoo area.  The suspect was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail on CSC 4th.  The suspect was arraigned in the 7th District-East Courts, Paw Paw, on 7-16-08 where bond was set at $5000.00 &/or 10%.  The suspect remains lodged at this time.

Investigating Officer
Sgt. Dennis Harvey
657-3101 ext. 811

Contact Person
Lt. William Lux or on-duty sergeant
657-3101

Vehicle 1
Yamaha Raptor 660R ATV

Operator of Vehicle 1
Gregory Paul Winters, male, 27 years-old

Injuries to Operator 1
Operator was wearing helmet; minor cuts to arms and legs; transported by personal vehicle to Lakeland Hospital

Vehicle 2
Honda CR250R dirt bike

Operator of Vehicle 2
James Joshua Kehrer, male, 22 years-old

Injuries to Operator 2
Operator was wearing helmet; broken left arm and head trauma causing possible concussion; transported by Sister Lakes Ambulance to Lakeland Hospital

Alcohol/Drugs
Alcohol and/or drugs were not factors in this crash

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies responded to a dirt bike versus ATV accident with injuries that occurred on private property in the 87000 block of CR 690.  Through an investigation of the incident it was determined that the two drivers were friends who were riding on a trail on private property.  The ATV was headed eastbound on the trail and the dirt bike was headed westbound when they collided.  Winters was transported by private vehicle and Kehrer was transported by Sister Lakes Ambulance, both to Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph.  Both operators were wearing helmets.

Assisting Agencies
Keeler Fire Dept. Quick Response
Sister Lakes Fire Dept. Ambulance Service

Investigating Officer
Deputy Raymond W. Hochsprung

Assisting Officer:
Deputy Travis Bernatche

Supervisor Contact
Please contact the on-duty supervisor at 657-3101 or
Lt. William Lux
657-3101
LuxW@vbco.org

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to the Van Buren County Road Commission Headquarters in the Village of Lawrence after a Road Commission employee arrived at the office and observed a subject breaking out windows.  The suspect fled on foot and the Road Commission employee gave chase.  Upon deputies arriving, a perimeter was set in place.  Due to the suspect receiving injuries from punching out the windows, a blood trail led up to a residence on Second Street.  Deputies along with a Sheriff's K9 unit conducted a search of the residence and found that the suspect entered through a rear door and attempted to hide.  The suspect eventually fled on foot out of the front door of the residence.  A canvass and K9 track of the area was unable to locate the suspect. The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 17 years of age and approximately 5' 9" tall.  The suspect would have received extensive injuries to the hand and wrist area from the shards of glass.  The investigation is still open and anyone with information is asked to contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office at (269) 657-3101.

Investigating deputies
K9 Deputy Tony Evans
Deputy Mark Stickles

Supervisor contact
Sergeant Scott Schmitt
(269) 657-3101 ext. 801

Operations Lieutenant William Lux
(269) 657-2006 ext. 203

Driver
Kimberly Anne Gryspinski, 38 year-old Deltona, Florida, woman

Injuries
The driver sustained multiple serious injuries

Hospital Information
The driver and passenger were both transported to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo

Vehicle #1
2005 Toyota Highlander, blue in color

Passenger
4 year-old Deltona, Florida boy

Injuries
The passenger sustained minor injuries to his head and shoulder

Seatbelts
The driver was not wearing a seatbelt; the child was sitting in a cargo area of the vehicle with no restraints available when the vehicle crashed

Alcohol
It is unknown at this time if alcohol was a factor and the investigation is still active

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that deputies were dispatched to the 49000 block of 42nd St. in Paw Paw Township for an injury accident. Upon arrival, deputies observed that an SUV had run off the roadway and struck a large tree causing major damage. Investigation at the scene shows that the vehicle was southbound on 42nd Street and crossed over to the east side of the road, into the ditch, and subsequently head-on into a tree on the east side of the road. Further investigation revealed that there were two occupants of the vehicle and both had sustained injuries. The driver, a 38 year-old Florida woman, was found unresponsive in the driver's seat. The child, a 4 year-old Florida boy, was found lying in the cargo area of the SUV. Medical personnel worked to free the driver from the vehicle while deputies secured the child for transport to the hospital. Both occupants were transported to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo for treatment. At this time it is unknown what caused the driver to leave the roadway. The woman was listed in critical condition, while the child was being treated for his head and shoulder injuries at the time of the news release. His status is unknown. The accident remains under investigation.

Assisting Agencies
Paw Paw Quick Response
Paw Paw Fire Department
Van Buren EMS
Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Traffic Crash Reconstructionists

Investigating Officer
Deputy Travis Bernatche

Contact Person
On duty Sergeant or Lt. William Lux
269-657-3101

Driver
John Bishop, 24 years-old, Kalamazoo

Injuries to driver
Bishop was transported to Bronson ER with injuries to his head.  Bishop was wearing his seat belt.

Passengers
Front seat passenger: Jessica Bishop, 22 years-old, Kalamazoo
Rear Seat passenger: Natalie Bishop, 4 years-old, Kalamazoo

Injuries to passengers
Both passengers were able to walk away from the accident. The front seat passenger complained of chest pain and advised that she would seek treatment later. The rear seat passenger was uninjured.

Vehicle
1989 Ford Mustang 5.0

Seatbelts
Seatbelts were used by both of the front passengers and a booster seat was used by the rear passenger.

Alcohol
It is unknown at this time if alcohol was a factor, as the investigation is still active.

Information
Sheriff Dale R. Gribler reports that Deputies were dispatched to a one-car personal injury crash at the intersection of 22^nd Street and Fish Hatchery Road in Almena Township. Upon arrival, it was found that the driver of the vehicle had injuries to his head and had to be taken to Bronson E.R. for treatment. Deputies investigated the crash and found that the driver was southbound on 22^nd Street and failed to yield at the intersection. The driver then went off of the roadway and collided with a tree, causing major damage to the vehicle. The crash investigation is still open at this time.

Assisting agencies
Oshtemo Fire Department
Life EMS
Van Buren Traffic Crash Reconstruction Deputies

Investigating Deputies
Deputy John Stolsonburg
269-657-3101 ext. 823

Supervisor Contact
Sgt. Dennis Harvey or on-duty supervisor
269-657-3101