Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Detective Shane Bucher with some of the items recovered by police.

By 1ST SGT. CHAD HILL
Public Information Officer, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department

Kurtis Michael Gunkel

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — Two men have been arrested by Kosciusko County officers after their alleged involvement in at least 34 burglaries and thefts.

Kurtis Michael Gunkel, 41, Warsaw, and Eric Warren Swick, 35, Macy, were both arrested and charged with felony burglary and theft after a month long investigation.

Sheriff’s Deputies stated the case was “broken-open” by a citizen that happened to be fishing and observed what appeared to be a burglary in progress. The anonymous citizen was able to provide officers with photos from his cellular phone, which eventually led officers to Gunkel and Swick. During the course of the investigation, deputies were able to locate numerous items that had been stolen from local residents, which included but were not limited to: televisions, power tools, electronics, power washers, hand tools, chain saws, air compressors, generators, battery charges, fishing equipment, and other various items.

Eric Warren Swick

Officers have estimated that the over $20,000 worth of items were stolen since the beginning of April when sheriff’s department reports were first received. KCSD Detectives stated all potential victims have been contacted regarding the subsequent arrest and items recovered.

Gunkel is being held on a $15,500 bond in the Kosciusko County Jail, while Swick is being held on a $20,500 bond.

Detectives stated that the thefts and burglaries occurred in the town of North Webster, as well as in the Barbee Lake and Shoe Lake areas. KCSD Deputies were also assisted in the investigation by officers from the North Webster Police Department.

The Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office advises that the defendant’s charge is merely an accusation and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.