Scott County, IN – A jewelry theft reported at a rural Scott County home has led to an arrest and the recovery of nearly all stolen items, according to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began about January 15, 2026, after a local resident reported multiple pieces of jewelry missing from their home, which was undergoing remodeling at the time. Deputy Todd Hooker took the initial complaint before Deputy Kyle West assumed investigative responsibility.
Authorities say the investigation resulted in the recovery of several pieces of stolen jewelry and the arrest of Gregory Purgerson, 55, of Austin, Indiana. The victim was able to positively identify the recovered items as their property.
Purgerson was taken into custody and remanded to the Scott County Jail, where he remains held as of the latest update. Officials emphasized that all charges are allegations and that Purgerson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Sheriff Jerry Goodin praised the deputies involved, highlighting the department’s investigative approach that prioritizes follow-through beyond the initial report.
“Taking the initial report is just the beginning,” Sheriff Goodin said in the release, noting that deputies are expected to pursue thorough investigations to locate stolen property and hold alleged offenders accountable.
Officials added that Deputy West was able to recover nearly every piece of jewelry reported missing by the victim, calling the outcome “another job well done.”
The sheriff’s office stated that this investigative model has helped keep Scott County among the safer counties in Indiana, allowing residents to live and raise families without fear.
Anyone with additional information related to thefts in Scott County is encouraged to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at (812) 752-8400.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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