According to a press release from the Starke County Sheriff’s Office, charges have been filed in relation to a theft reported earlier this year.
The report states that in February of 2026, the owner of the Economy Inn on US 30 in Hamlet reported a break-in. At the time, the business was closed due to a prior fire.
During the Starke County Sheriff’s Department’s investigation, it was determined that suspect(s) had forced entry into a motel room and removed copper plumbing.
In March of 2026, the owner reported an additional theft of copper from the property.
Through the course of the investigation, detectives identified 42-year-old Nichole Patrick of Peru Indiana as a suspect who was linked to both incidents.
On the evening of Saturday, April 25th, Starke County deputies, with assistance from the Hamlet Police Department, located Patrick at a residence in Hamlet where she was detained and transported to the Starke County Justice Center.
A report was submitted to the Starke County Prosecutor’s Office for review. Formal charges were subsequently filed, charging Patrick with Burglary, a Level 5 Felony, and Theft, a Level 5 Felony.
The announcement ends with the statement: “Sheriff Rosa commends the detectives and deputies for their diligent work in identifying a suspect, as well as their continued partnership with the Hamlet Police Department.”
