ORANGE COUNTY — The Assistant Chief of the West Baden Police Department has been arrested on multiple felony charges following a criminal investigation by the Indiana State Police Special Investigation Division.
Thomas Burkhardt, 60, of Dubois, was taken into custody without incident on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, and is currently being lodged in the Orange County Jail.
The state police investigation began on April 22, 2026, after ISP Detective Tim Denby received criminal allegations regarding official misconduct and battery. According to state police officials, the victims involved in the case have been cooperative throughout the month-long investigation.
Due to Burkhardt’s position in local law enforcement, Jefferson County Prosecutor David Sutter was assigned to act as the Special Prosecutor in the case to ensure a fair and impartial review of the evidence.
On Tuesday, the case was formally presented to a special judge in the Orange County Court. Following a review of the findings, a judge issued a no-bond warrant for Burkhardt’s arrest.
The following criminal charges have been officially levied against the assistant chief: two counts of official misconduct, Level 6 felonies, battery, a Level 6 felony, and battery, a Class A misdemeanor.
Following the issuance of the warrant, ISP detectives located and arrested Burkhardt.
State police confirmed that Burkhardt’s initial court appearance will be scheduled within the next few days. The proceedings will take place in the Orange County Circuit Court.
No further details regarding the specific nature of the allegations or the identity of the victims have been released at this time.
