An eight-month criminal investigation conducted by detectives from the Indiana State Police Peru Post led to the arrest of a Greentown man.
Dustin J. Echelbarger, 43, was arrested on Wednesday.
The investigation began in October 2024 after officers received information regarding potential fraud, forgery, and corrupt business practices. The preliminary investigation revealed that Echelbarger, while working as a salesman at a local farm equipment store, engaged in fraudulent activities by buying, selling, and trading equipment to farmers across northern Indiana. It was determined that he collected over $750,000 through fabricated purchase orders and secured more than $650,000 in loans under the names of local farmers.
Echelbarger was served with an arrest warrant from Grant County Superior Court II and was incarcerated at the Grant County Jail.
Charges against Echelbarger include:
- Corrupt Business Influence – Level 5 Felony
- Fraud (loss between $50,000 and $100,000) – Level 5 Felony (6 counts)
- Fraud (loss between $750 and $50,000) – Level 6 Felony (2 counts)
- Forgery – Level 6 Felony (8 counts)
Deadline is Wednesday for Indiana reserved hunt applications
Concerts, cancellations announced for Indiana State Fair performances
Canoe rental bus - Jeep crash with multiple injuries Friday
World Food Championships introduces the WFC Culinary Combine at Indianapolis this fall
Ivy Tech Terre Haute / Greencastle to enhance dual enrollment with local foundation grants
Monday declared Air Quality Action Day across Indiana with changing weather pattern on horizon
U.S. Attorney’s Office hosts fraud forum, announces creation of fraud task force in Southern District of Indiana
Indiana customers to receive $350,000 in bill assistance from Duke Energy this summer
Car collectors can go retro with an authentic model year license plate
Phase II complete on Parke County Rail Trail
Lineup of 50 new food creations featured during this year's Indiana State Fair
Indiana wrapping up recounts in three legislative races
