Rensselaer, IN – A traffic accident at the busy intersection of Clark and Jefferson Thursday morning quickly escalated into a police investigation involving false information, a wanted suspect, and alleged methamphetamine possession.
According to the Rensselaer Police Department, officers responded at approximately 8:36 a.m. to a call about a crash with injuries. Police initially spoke with Linda Alexander, 57, who claimed to be the driver of one of the vehicles. However, as officers continued their investigation, they suspected that Charles Oliver, 49, of Rensselaer, was actually behind the wheel at the time of the crash.
Police allege Mr. Oliver fled the scene before officers arrived. Authorities later discovered he had outstanding arrest warrants for parole violation. Ms. Alexander was reportedly uncooperative and arrested for assisting a criminal after allegedly providing false information during questioning. Police towed her vehicle and said they discovered drug paraphernalia, including pipes and a digital scale, all of which tested positive for methamphetamine, according to Rensselaer Police.
Officers from Jasper County, Starke County, and Indiana State Police assisted in the search for Mr. Oliver. Authorities say a tip led them to an outbuilding near a residence in San Pierre, where Mr. Oliver was allegedly found hiding. He was taken into custody on his outstanding warrants.
Police report that the investigation remains ongoing and Mr. Oliver may face additional charges following review by the Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office. Rensselaer Police thanked their law enforcement partners and the public for assistance in the case.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
