Archived 2009 News Releases

Thursday, December 10, 2009 - Snowmobile Safety

SHERIFF WALLIN STRESSES SNOWMOBILE SAFETY

With the onset of winter conditions this year, Sheriff Pete Wallin reminds snowmobile riders to take extra precautions on the new fallen snow. Because it can take two weeks or more of below freezing temperatures for the ice on lakes, streams and ponds to freeze thick enough to support a snowmobile, Sheriff Wallin urges riders to stay off the ice.

Further safety tips from Sheriff Wallin:

• Always keep your machine in top mechanical condition.
• Always wear insulated boots and protective clothing, including a helmet, gloves and eye protection.
• Never ride alone.
• Avoid, when possible, crossing frozen bodies of water
• Always be alert to avoid fences and low strung wires.
• Never operate your snowmobiles in a single file line when crossing frozen bodies of water.
• Always look for depressions in the snow.
• Keep headlights and taillights on at all times.
• Always check weather conditions before you depart.
• Never operate your snowmobile on railroad tracks
• Never operate your snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol.

Snowmobiles must abide by the same regulations as drivers and Sheriff Wallin will have his deputies out on patrol to make sure Emmet County residents stay safe this winter.

While Sheriff Wallin hopes that nobody in Emmet County will find themselves in such a precarious situation while riding a snowmobile, by heeding the warnings above he know you can stay alive!

Authority Sheriff Pete Wallin

Thursday, December 10, 2009 - Holiday Shopping

EMMET COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE URGES HOLIDAY SHOPPERS TO STAY SAFE

The holidays, a time for cheer, hope and joy, are here, but unfortunately, it can be a time when crime becomes more prevalent.

"Crooks love the holidays as much as everyone else, but chiefly because it's an opportunity for crime," says Sheriff Pete Wallin. To help your shopping go safely Sheriff Wallin offers the following tips:

• Stay alert and be aware of what's going on around you.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put your wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
• Never leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart.
• Never carry large amounts of cash. Whenever possible use credit cards, debit cards or checks. ,li>Park in a well-lighted space, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
• When returning to your car or home always have your keys in hand, ready to open the door.
• Before entering your vehicle carefully check the front and rear seats and floors for anyone that may be hiding there.
• Shop with friends or relatives. There is safety in numbers.
• Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.

Authority Sheriff Pete Wallin

Thursday, December 10, 2009 - Winter Driving

Sheriff Peter A. Wallin Offers Winter Safety Tips

While winter is synonymous with the joy of the holiday season, there is also danger in the cold and icy weather of the winter months. By taking precautions now, Sheriff Wallin hopes the residents of Emmet County will stay safe this winter.

Swirling winter snowflakes seems to turn into a blizzard in the blink of an eye. Sheriff Wallin wants area residents to know the four most common winter weather notices so you can take the proper action.

• Winter Storm Watch - Be alert, a storm is likely but has not been spotted yet.
• Winter Storm Warning - The storm has entered, or is approaching, your area.
• Winter Weather Advisory - Conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorist.
• Blizzard Warning - This the most dangerous situation.  Combinations of snow and strong winds will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill - seek refuge immediately!

Before heading out onto snow-coved roadways, Sheriff Wallin cautions residents to pay attention to travel advisories and adjust your plans accordingly. Additionally, Sheriff Wallin provides tips on what you can do to stay safe later.

• Winterize your car - check levels on antifreeze, oil (10W30 is best for colder months), windshield wipers & fluid, and tire pressure. Replace your battery if it is more than three years old, or if it no longer holds a full charge. Carry an ice scraper with a brush for removing snow.
• Prepare an emergency car kit which should include:
  • Sand or kitty litter to provide traction
  • Snow shovel
  • Blankets
  • Non-perishable food items and water
  • Brightly-colored cloth to use as a flag

Additionally, always maintain a full tank of gasoline and keep your cell phone charged.  Sheriff Wallin urges every person who will be on the roads this winter to carry a cell phone.  "In so many instances, the difference between life and death has been a person's ability to call for help from a cell phone.

It is also highly important that residents prepare their homes for the coming winter months.  Have your furnace checked by a certified technician, seal any windows leaking air, and create a home emergency kit that includes the following items:

• Battery-operated radio to listen to weather forecasts
• Candles and matches or flashlights and batteries
• Extra blankets including some for sealing doors and hanging over windows
• Non-perishable food, several gallons of water, and extra supplies of prescription medication

For any outdoor activities this winter, Sheriff Wallin advises citizens to put on several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, choose mittens over gloves, and always wear a hat.  The combination of strain from cold temperatures and heavy exertion (shoveling, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow) can trigger a heart attack in people who are susceptible.  "With this information, the citizens of Emmet County can prepare themselves for a winter ahead and more fully enjoy the beauty of the season.

Authority Sheriff Pete Wallin

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office arrested Eric Gille , a 29 year old Levering resident, on 11-29-09. The incident started when a Deputy Sheriff attempted a traffic stop on Gille's vehicle in the parking lot of the Holiday Gas Station. The vehicle failed to stop and led the deputy south on Division Road prior to crashing at the intersection of Division Road and Atkins Road.

Gille has since been charged with one 5 year Felony and four misdemeanors. These charges include Felony Flee and Elude Police, Possession / Use of a Stolen Registration Plate, Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated, Driving While License Suspended and No Insurance. Gille remains lodged at the Emmet County Jail on a $5000 bond.

Authority Sheriff Peter A. Wallin

Monday, November 9, 2009

Friday, October 23, 2009

SHERIFF PETE WALLIN ENCOURAGES SAFE TRICK-OR-TREATING FOR HALLOWEEN

Halloween is quickly approaching and soon our streets will be filled with little ghosts, goblins, and witches trick-or-treating.

To ensure this Halloween is safe for your children, Emmet County Sheriff Pete Wallin offers the following safety tips

• Costumes should be short enough to prevent tripping. Masks should not be too restrictive with adequate holes for proper respiration and peripheral vision. Consider using cosmetics to create fun or scary faces instead of masks.
• Watch costumed children around pets. The pet may not recognize the child and become frightened, especially if the child is using a prop such as a sword or dagger as part of their costume.
• Avoid hard plastic or wooden props, opting instead for items made of foam rubber which is soft and flexible.
• To help make the child more visible after dark, trick-or-treaters should carry a brightly colored bag and flashlight or glowstick. Add reflective tape to the sides, front, and back of the child's costume.
• At all times, watch for traffic and avoid walking in the street whenever possible.
• An adult should always accompany young children. A parent should stay within close range of young children at all times and children should never be allowed to go down a street alone. Walk with your children to each house and wait near the porch or front entrance of the home until they return.
• Older children should travel in pairs or in groups at all times while trick-or-treating and never venture down a dark, empty street.
• Parents should know the route that their children are following. Children should always walk together to the front door of each house and only cross the street at crosswalks.
• Dark, unlit homes should be avoided.
• Children should save their candy until they get home so you can inspect it. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious looking goodies. If your child does get sick, call your family doctor or the hospital emergency room immediately and save all wrappers. It is also helpful to determine what he or she ate and which house it came from.
• Keep flammable items, such as your jack-o-lantern, away from small children, pets, and flammable materials such as draperies, furniture, and paper decorations. Never leave a candle burning unattended.

Sheriff Wallin also reminds all drivers to please drive carefully on Halloween night. The children are excited and will be out in force on your community's streets.

"Halloween is a fun time in Emmet County,"Sheriff Wallin concluded. "Let's make it a safe time as well."

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Michael James Scott was formally charged and arraigned on October 7th, 2009 on one count of Perjury in a Capital Trial. Sheriff Pete Wallin states this charge stems from Michael’s preliminary hearing testimony on July 8th, 2009. Michael was sentenced to 15-25 years on July 1st, 2009 for delivery of a controlled substance causing death. During that investigation Michael admitted his mother gave him the drugs he delivered that caused the death of Jeff Cox.

Sheriff Wallin states while under oath, Michael recanted this statement, claiming he was the sole person responsible for the delivery of Fentynal. Perjury in this case is a Felony punishable up to life in prison.

Michael Scott is currently lodged with the Department of Corrections and awaiting a preliminary hearing on October 21st, 2009.

Friday, October 2, 2009

100% Compliance Rating!

Emmet County Sheriff Peter A. Wallin is pleased to announce that on September 23, 2009, the Emmet County Sheriff's Office Jeffrey P. Bodzick Corrections Facility received a 100% compliance rating on its annual jail inspection. The inspection is done annually by the Michigan Department of Corrections Jail Services Unit.

This prefect rating again is a reflection of a job well done by Jail Administrator Brenda Ford and her corrections staff at the Emmet County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Wallin noted the number one liability for counties in Michigan is its jail. This is proof again that Emmet County is providing a safe and secure jail system to serve the public, the inmates, and their families.

Friday, September 25, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 25 year old Petoskey man on September 24th for delivery of controlled substance in the jail. Kole Swiss is charged with eight felonies, including four counts of delivery (20 year felony) and four counts of furnishing contraband to prisoners (5 year felony). Sheriff Pete Wallin states Kole Swiss was an inmate serving weekends when he brought narcotics into the jail and delivered the contraband to other inmates.

Sheriff Wallin states his department goes to extreme measures to assure this type of incident does not occur. Sheriff adds any future issues such as this will not be tolerated and will be charged to the fullest extent of the law.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Emmet County Sheriff Urges Parents and Caregivers to
Get Their Child Safety Seats Inspected

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 3 to 6 and 8 to 14. In 2007, 6,532 passenger vehicle occupants 14 and younger were involved in fatal crashes. That’s why Sheriff Pete Wallin is urging all parents and caregivers to attend the child passenger seat check event on Saturday, September 26, 2009. The Sheriff's Office will have certified technicians available to provide on-site child safety seat inspections and education from 8 a.m. to Noon at the Richard Zink Law Enforcement Center, located at 3460 Harbor Petoskey Rd.

“It’s the responsibility of every parent and caregiver out there to make sure their children are safely restrained – every trip, every time,” said Sheriff Wallin. “We are urging everyone to get their child safety seats inspected. When it comes to the safety of a child, there is no room for mistakes.”

In 2007, among children under 5, an estimated 358 lives were saved from the use of child safety seats and booster seats. If all children under the age of 5 were restrained, an additional 71 children would have been saved.

Sheriff Wallin stated If parents who are not able to attend the event can call the Sheriff's Office and schedule an appointment with a certified technician.

The Sheriff's Office received an Office of Highway Safety and Planning grant to promote child passenger safety in 2009.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

EMMET COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
RECEIVES RURAL LAW ENFORCEMENT GRANT 

Emmet County Sheriff Pete Wallin is pleased to announce that the Emmet County Sheriff's Office will be receiving a grant from the U. S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office will be receiving $162,373 to create a Prescription Drug Diversion Unit. One detective will be assigned exclusively to educate the public of this abuse, inform medical professionals of the abusers, proactively arrest individuals who commit prescription fraud and medical professionals who over-prescribe controlled substances. The Emmet County Sheriff's Office modeled the grant after the Cheboygan County Sheriff's Office which initiated a similar program back in 2005.

Sheriff Wallin stated that illegal use of prescription drugs in Emmet County has been an ongoing problem and continues to increase every year. The prescription drug diversion problem has become obvious not only locally but nationally. Researching the problem found that EMS service calls for drug overdoses increased 320% from 2006 to 2008. Sheriff Wallin recognized the rural law enforcement grant as an opportunity to obtain funding to create a detective position dedicated to combat this problem.

Sheriff Wallin presented the grant proposal to the Emmet County Board of Commissioners in April of 2009 and they voted unanimously to support the grant. Sheriff Wallin stated he was glad to have the unanimous support of the commissioners to apply for the grant knowing the safety and welfare of the Citizens of Emmet County is an important issue to them.

Authority 
Sheriff Pete Wallin

Friday, September 11, 2009

On Friday, September 11, 2009, at approximately 9:06 a.m., the Emmet County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to a domestic violence complaint at Bay Shore Estates, Resort Township. According to Sheriff Pete Wallin, the complaint was originally dispatched as a 911 call for an ambulance. EMS personnel arrived on the scene and contacted 911 advising them the complaint was a domestic violence complaint. Deputies responded to the scene and determined that in fact the complaint was a case of domestic violence. The victim and her eleven month old child were transported by Allied EMS to Northern Michigan Hospital. The investigation revealed that firearms were involved. Due to firearms being involved, deputies obtain a search warrant for the residence since evidence of the crime were located within the residence. Deputies arrested Craig Thomas Hand, age 20, and he was charged with the following charges:

* Weapons - Dangerous Weapon - Carrying with unlawful Intent.
* Two Counts of Weapons - Felony Firearms
* Three Counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Felonious Assault)
* Child Abuse - 3rd Degree
* Domestic Violence

Craig Hand was released from the Emmet County Jail after posting a $25,000 cash/surety bond and is scheduled for arraignment in 90th District Court on September 23, 2009.

Authority
Sheriff Pete Wallin

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office is investigating two separate Malicious Destruction of Property incidents that occurred on the night of September 6th, 2009 in Bear Creek Township. Sheriff Pete Wallin states his office responded to two separate businesses, Tailored Enterprises and Enterprise Car Rental, to find vehicles severely damaged. These calls came in between 9pm and 11pm.

It is estimated the damage may exceed $7000. Sheriff Wallin asks if anyone saw suspicious activity at these locations to please contact D/Sgt. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901 or the Emmet County Tip Hotline at (231) 439-8939.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

SHERIFF PETE WALLIN EXPANDS STOPPED PROGRAM TO INCLUDE ORVs, SNOWMOBILES & BOATS

Emmet County Sheriff Pete Wallin is pleased to announce the Michigan Sheriffs' Association (MSA) is expanding its award-winning STOPPED (Sheriffs Telling Our Parents and Promoting Educated Drivers) Program to allow parents to register their snowmobiles, ORVs and boats.

"With summer vacation in full swing teens will not only be on the road more, they will also be on the thousands of lakes and trails across Michigan," said Sheriff Wallin. "For five years the STOPPED program has bought parents some peace of mind when their children are on the road. With more than 800,000 boats, 275,000 snowmobiles and 139,000 ORVs registered in Michigan we realized the program could be just as successful off the roads as it is on them."

Funding for the program, which is available to parents free of charge, has graciously been provided by AAA Michigan since 2006. Working together MSA and AAA Michigan are striving to foster a partnership between parents and law enforcement to promote safe driving teens.

"The fact that the STOPPED program continues to expand underscores its success," said Secretary Land, who is making program information available to customers in branch offices across Michigan. "By engaging both parents and teens in safe-driving discussions, STOPPED encourages an open dialogue within families that can help save lives. We applaud the work of the Michigan Sheriffs' Association and AAA Michigan to keep our roads safe, and we're excited to continue our participation in this worthwhile program."

Parents simply register their vehicle on line at www.misheriff.org and a STOPPED sticker is mailed to their home to be placed on the vehicle's windshield. It serves as a visible reminder to the young driver to drive safely and responsibly, and that should he or she be pulled over for any reason, the parents will receive a letter regarding the incident.

The notification feature makes parents aware of any potential problems and enables them to enforce rules they have set regarding teenage driving privileges. Information in the letter includes the time, location, number of passengers, reason for the stop and whether a citation was issued.

"There is nothing more important to a parent than the protection of their children," said MSA Executive Director Terrence L. Jungel. "Sheriffs and all law enforcement understand this and we are here to help you any way we can."

STOPPED, which began in 2005 with pilot programs in seven Michigan counties, expanded to 27 counties in 2006, 67 counties in 2007, 73 counties in 2008 and 80 counties in 2009.

"With more than 8,500 vehicles registered in the program, there have been no reported accidents or injuries," said Jack Peet, Manager of Community Safety Services for AAA Michigan. "In addition, there were only twelve letters that needed to be sent to parents. That tells me the teen drivers are seeing the sticker and thinking twice about taking unsafe chances they might otherwise take when it comes to driving."

The Michigan Sheriffs' Association, created in 1877, is the oldest law enforcement organization in the state. For more information about the Michigan Sheriffs' Association, or to support programs like STOPPED as a citizen or business member, please visit our Web site at www.misheriff.org.

Authority Sheriff Pete Wallin

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Suspect in Boyne Highlands robbery

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office responded to an armed robbery in the early morning Photos of suspect in the Boyne Highlands robbery, any information on the identity please contact the Emmet County Sheriff's Office Detective JL Sumpter (231)439-8901 or the Emmet County Sheriff's Office TIP LINE (231)439-8939.

Sheriff Wallin states the suspect is described as a white male, 5’10” – 6’ tall, slender build, brown/black hair, and blue eyes. The suspect was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, cargo or carpenter type pants, black boots, wearing a mask, and a small nickel/silver plated automatic handgun.

Sheriff Wallin is asking if anyone in the Boyne Highlands area saw anything suspicious between 2:30 and 4:00am, witnessed anyone with a large amount of cash, or have any other tips to please contact D/Cpl. JL Sumpter at (231) 439-8901 or the Emmet County Sheriff’s Tip Hotline at (231) 439-8939.

Friday, June 12, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested Sally Brown of East Jordan for Delivery of a Controlled Substance Causing Death, which is a life offense. This arrest stems from an incident where Sally’s son Michael Scott delivered Fentanyl causing Jeff Cox’s death in March 2007. Sheriff Pete Wallin states Michael was arrested on June 4th, 2009 on the same charge and it was alleged at that time more charges may surface.

Sheriff Wallin adds it is believed that Sally gave her prescribed Fentanyl to Michael where he delivered it to Jeff which resulted in his death. Sally is currently out on bond. If anyone has more information related to this cause you are urged to contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901.

Friday, June 5, 2009

After a two-year investigation the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a 43 year-old Bliss Township man for delivering a drug causing death, which is a life offense in the State of Michigan. Michael Scott of Emmet County was arrested on June 4, 2009 and is currently held at the Emmet County Jail without bond. Sheriff Pete Wallin states his office responded to a Springvale Township home in March of 2007 on a suspected overdose death. Over the course of two years his office received many tips that ultimately led to the arrest.

Sheriff Wallin adds upon investigation his office learned that Michael Scott provided drugs to the victim which caused his death and believes others were involved, which may result in future charges. Sheriff Wallin asks that if anyone has information to please contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

According to Emmet County Sheriff Pete Wallin, his office has received several complaints lately concerning litter on Powers Road, in Littlefield Township. The littering appears to be coming from vehicles due to the fact it is being found in the road right-of-way. The Emmet County Sheriff's Office reminds people that littering from a motor vehicle is a violation of the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code and if found responsible, a person is subject to a civil fine of not more than $800.00. Sheriff Wallin also advised that it is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500.00 or 90 days confinement in jail, or both for having an unsecured load that spills onto the highway from a motor vehicle. If anyone has information concerning these violations to contact the Emmet County Sheriff's Office at 439-4900 or contact 911.

Authority: Sheriff Pete Wallin

Monday, May 18, 2009

PROPER PLANNING NOW CAN PREVENT TRAGEDY LATER

PETE WALLIN ASKS "IS YOUR BOAT SEAWORTHY"


Sheriff Pete Wallin wants Emmet County residents to stay safe on the water this summer by performing a vessel safety check now.

"While most people are aware that they need to keep their automobiles in good running order, it sometimes doesn't occur to them to check their boats before the season gets underway," said Sheriff Wallin.

Sheriff Wallin recommends boat owners take the following steps for vessel safety:

1. Check the condition of your life jackets. Make sure that there is one properly fitting life jacket for every person on board and that they are in good condition. Check for discoloration, dry rot, and mildew; popped seams and tears in the in the fabric; and the straps, buckles, and zippers still work.

2. Check your equipment to make sure it is in good working order. This includes items like your visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, navigation lights, bilge pumps, ventilation blowers, and fire extinguishers.

3. Check to make sure your navigation charts are on board and updated to the most current conditions.

Sheriff Wallin encourages boat owners have the Coast Guard perform a free vessel safety check. Vessel examiners will check the boat for mechanical safety as well verifying the proper safety equipment is on board and offering recommendations on how to best outfit vessels to comply with federal and state laws and regulations.

"By taking the proper precautions now, you can prevent tragedy later," said Sheriff Wallin. "Take personal responsibility for your safety in order to enjoy a summer on the water."

In short, boaters should be prepared! By following these simple tips, boaters should be able to enjoy a long relaxing weekend on the water!

Authority: Sheriff Pete Wallin

Thursday, May 14, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office will be conducting seat belt enforcement zones during the Memorial Day 2009 Buckle Up or Pay Up: Click It or Ticket mobilization. Federal traffic safety funds are supporting extra enforcement in Emmet County and 54 other counties in Michigan. Officers will be conducting safety belt enforcement zones, strategically located enforcement marked by signs alerting motorists they are entering an enforcement area. A total of eight seat belt enforcement zones will be conducted during the mobilization period of May 18 - May 31.

Sheriff Wallin stated the times and locations of the planned safety belt enforcement zones will be posted on the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning's Web site, www.michigan.gov/ohsp. According to the Criminal Justice information Center, about 41 percent of the people who died in traffic crashes in Michigan in 2008 were not wearing their safety belts. Sheriff Wallin stated, "The goal of the seat belt mobilization is simple, we want motorists to wear safety belts because they save lives."

Thursday, May 14, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office will be conducting seat belt enforcement zones during the Memorial Day 2009 Buckle Up or Pay Up: Click It or Ticket mobilization. Federal traffic safety funds are supporting extra enforcement in Emmet County and 54 other counties in Michigan. Officers will be conducting safety belt enforcement zones, strategically located enforcement marked by signs alerting motorists they are entering an enforcement area. A total of eight seat belt enforcement zones will be conducted during the mobilization period of May 18 - May 31.

Sheriff Wallin stated the times and locations of the planned safety belt enforcement zones will be posted on the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning's Web site, www.michigan.gov/ohsp. According to the Criminal Justice information Center, about 41 percent of the people who died in traffic crashes in Michigan in 2008 were not wearing their safety belts. Sheriff Wallin stated, "The goal of the seat belt mobilization is simple, we want motorists to wear safety belts because they save lives."

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

News Release #1

On 05/12/09, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 68-year-old McKinley Township woman on a 21-count warrant. Evelyn Graves was arrested on 20 forgery related felony counts and one misdemeanor. Sheriff Pete Wallin states after this 6 month investigation, it was determined that Graves forged several checks, leaving her ex-husband’s accounts in disarray. The 20 felony charges are punishable up to 14 years imprisonment, while the misdemeanor is punishable up to one year.

Sheriff Wallin states a case such as this is difficult to investigate because of the paperwork involved. Graves remains lodged at the Emmet County Jail on a $100,000 bond. The Sheriff asks if anyone has information pertaining to this case; please call D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901.

News Release #2

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 36-year-old Vanderbilt man on 05/08/09. Mitchell Baker was arrested for fleeing and eluding, larceny in a building, receiving and concealing stolen property, and animal cruelty. Sheriff Pete Wallin states this arrest stemmed from an incident where Baker was selling a stolen roto-tiller on craigslist.com. The victim saw the item and notified the Sheriff’s Office. An officer posing as a potential buyer made contact with Baker where he agreed to sell the stolen item to the undercover detective.

Sheriff Wallin states as his deputies were approaching Baker in the Lowe’s parking lot, Baker dumped the roto-tiller and his dog from his truck. As deputies approached Baker, he fled the scene. Sheriff Wallin is asking if anyone purchased an item from Baker online to please contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Melissa Grawey, a 41 year old Springvale Township woman, turned herself in at the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office on 05/05/09 a multiple count felony warrant.  Grawey is charged with eight felonies including criminal enterprise, embezzlement between $50,000 and $100,000, forgery, and uttering and publishing.  These crimes are punishable from 14-20 years imprisonment.

Sheriff Pete Wallin states the suspect is accused of stealing from her employer between the years of 2006-2009.  During this time it is believed Grawey stole cash, forged her employer’s signature, and took money from other employees.  Sheriff Wallin states there is no doubt many were affected by her actions.   

Sheriff Wallin states the current total taken at this point is near $100,000 and could be over that amount once the investigation is completed.  Grawey was arraigned on 05/05/09 and is currently out on bond.  Sheriff asks if anyone has information to please contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901. 

Friday, April 17, 2009

Deputies from the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested 19 year old Zachary Elya of Brutus for an incident that occurred on 04/12/09. Sheriff Pete Wallin states deputies were called to a domestic violence incident that turned out to be more serious than first thought. Zach Elya was arrested on seven charges including five felonies. Charges include unlawful imprisonment, assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, obstructing justice, and interfering with electronic communications. These charges are felonies with the most serious being 15 years in prison.

Sheriff Wallin states the victim was attempting to leave her home when the suspect assaulted her several times. At one point the victim was attempting to call for help on her cell phone when the suspect pinned her down, took the phone, and broke it in half. The victim then retreated to the house where the suspect put a knife to his throat threatening suicide. As the victim was attempting to leave, the suspect grabbed her by the throat, choked her, and did not allow her to leave. The suspect assaulted and imprisoned her for a period of time until she was able to leave the residence.

Monday, April 13, 2009

According to Sheriff Pete Wallin, the Emmet County Sheriff's Office is investigating numerous stolen mail complaints that occurred sometime between April 6, 2009 and April 10, 2009. It appears that mail was stolen from mailboxes in the Harbor Springs and Petoskey area. Mail in the Harbor Springs area was taken from mailboxes in the Forest Way Subdivision and the Blackwood Court Subdivision. In the Petoskey area, mail was taken from mailboxes in the Mishe Mokwa Subdivision and Valley Crest Apartment Complex. There could be more mail that was taken and there could be many more victims out there that aren't aware that they are missing anything. Some of the mail has been recovered, but people should be aware that there could have been information in the mail that could have contained personal information. The Emmet County Sheriff's Office is also investigating several complaints of damage to mailboxes in Resort Township.

Citizens should also keep an eye out for vehicles at mailboxes that aren't postal vehicles.

Please contact the Emmet County Sheriff's Office if you have any information concerning these thefts or damage to mailboxes at (231) 439-8900

Authority: Sheriff Pete Wallin

Thursday, March 26, 2009

On 3-25-09 at approximately 6:15 p.m. the Emmet County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the report of a gas drive off in McKinley Twp. Emmet County. The vehicle description given matched that of a stolen vehicle. A deputy located the suspect vehicle and attempted contact with the suspect, who then fled. During the pursuit the suspect swerved at two Michigan State Troopers who were attempting to deploy a tire deflation device. The driver was taken into custody after his vehicle became stuck in the snow. The report has been turned over to the Emmet County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. The Sheriff's Office has requested multiple charges including Fleeing and Eluding, Felonious Assault, Resisting and Obstructing, OWI, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Driving While License Suspended, transportation of open intoxicants in a motor vehicle, and larceny of motor vehicle fuel.

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office was assisted by Michigan State Police St. Ignace Post and the Mackinaw City Police Department.

Authority Sheriff Peter A. Wallin

Thursday, March 19, 2009

According to Emmet County Sheriff Peter A. Wallin, Deputy Scott Ford was terminated as a Deputy with the Emmet County Sheriff's Office on December 19, 2008 after allegations of misconduct surfaced regarding Ford's violation of Emmet County Sheriff's Office Polices. Immediately after Ford's termination on December 19, 2008, Sheriff Wallin contacted the Michigan Sheriff's Association Mission Team, which conducts internal investigations for Sheriff's Offices in Michigan, and requested an investigation be conducted. The results of the investigation were recently turned over to the Emmet County Prosecutor's Office for a further review of these matters. Sheriff Wallin went on to say concerning the allegations against Ford, …. "Misconduct as is alleged will not be tolerated by this office and is not a reflection of the other fine men and women that continue to serve the citizens of Emmet County. We accept and acknowledge that members of the Emmet County Sheriff's Office, and all other law enforcement officers, are accountable for their actions - just like the citizens that we serve."

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Emmet County’s Sheriff Pete Wallin would like to warn citizens of a “Stimulus” scam possibly going through our area. Sheriff Wallin states citizens may receive a phone call or email advising them of a program to assist in getting their stimulus check quicker. In addition, these suspects claim to assist in getting you a Federal Grant to help with bills or debt. They may use testimonials such as getting a stimulus check by mail in less than 30 days or provide you “free” advice on how to get government grants. Victims of this scam are asked for their credit card or account number and find a charge for the “free” advice.

Sheriff Wallin states the government does not award grants to individuals and are advised to not provide any personal information to these scammers. Sheriff Wallin adds it is unfortunate people attempt to take advantage of these troubling times in an unlawful manner, but it is inevitable and I encourage each of our citizens to educate others and be proactive in this matter.

If you should receive a call or email regarding this or other scams, you are encouraged to contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901 or by email at jsumpter@emmetcounty.org.

D/Cpl. J L Sumpter
3460 M-119
Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Office: (231) 439-8901
Fax: (231) 439-8917
jsumpter@emmetcounty.org

Friday, February 27, 2009

Personal Injury Traffic Accident
Date/ Time: 02-26-2009 11:09 a.m.
Location: Intersection of US-131 and Bear River Rd., Bear Creek Twp. Emmet County

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office is investigating a three vehicle accident that occurred on US-131. Five people were transported to the Northern Michigan Hospital by ambulance. The initial investigation indicates a Clarence Toaz, an 83 year old Petoskey resident, failed to yield to oncoming traffic while making a left turn onto Bear River Rd. Toaz's vehicle collided with a south bound vehicle driven by Stella Johnson, a 54 year old Gaylord resident. Toaz's vehicle then collided with a third vehicle stopped at the stop sign on Bear River Rd. driven by Kathryn Frech, a 67 year old Walloon Lake resident. Johnson had two passengers in her vehicle at the time of the crash. Toaz and Frech were the lone occupants of their vehicles. The accident remains under investigation and no citations have been issued at this point.

The Emmet County Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Office, Allied EMS, and Bear Creek Resort Fire Department. The Emmet County Victim Services Unit was activated and responded to the hospital.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

On 01/06/09, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office handled five different ice shanty breaking and entering complaints. Sheriff Pete Wallin states all five shanties were located on Crooked Lake between Ponshewaing and the Channel Road boat launch.

Sheriff Wallin states there were several different items taken, such as heaters, poles, and other ice fishing equipment.

It is believed there were two suspects involved and occurred during the overnight hours of January 5th, 2009. Sheriff Wallin is asking for assistance from the community. If you have any information regarding this incident you are encouraged to contact D/Cpl. J L Sumpter at (231) 439-8901.

Monday, January 12, 2009

The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office arrested a seventeen year old McKinley Township man on 01/09/09 for one count of First Degree Child Abuse and two counts of Third Degree Child abuse. First Degree Child Abuse is a felony where the perpetrator caused serious physical harm to the point where it impairs the child’s health or well-being and is punishable by imprisonment of not more that 15 years in prison.

Sheriff Pete Wallin states Jason Brown was arrested for abusing a three year old he was babysitting over the course of the past two months. Sheriff Wallin adds this is a tragic incident and our hearts go out to the victim in this case. Jason Brown was arraigned and is currently out on bond.