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Police recover explosive devices and illegal drugs

Wednesday, May 14, 2008
By KEVIN CRAFTON, Staff Writer
The findings of Monday's raid that yielded explosives and drugs.

The Greencastle Police Department recently made three arrests in a raid that yielded explosive devices and drugs.

At 6:30 a.m. Monday, an anonymous call came into Putnam County 911 Dispatcher Jason Chamber that Victor Lee, 20, Greencastle had three homemade explosive devices in his Castlebury apartment.

According to Assistant Chief Brian Hopkins, who spearheaded this investigation, "The initial raid took place right around noon. Three explosive devices were located along with marijuana and paraphernalia. He was arrested for three counts of a destructive device, possession of marijuana and reckless possession of paraphernalia."

At that time, a witness told police Lee had bought the explosives from Thomas Garrett, 19. Garrett admitted he had sold the explosive devices to Lee, but said he bought them from David Sutherlin, 36. No explosives or drugs were found at Garrett's residence.

When police came to Sutherlin's residence at around 5 p.m., they found over 30 grams of marijuana, around 250 pills and three destructive devices. He was arrested for three counts for possession of a destructive device, possession of marijuana over three grams, dealing in marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school, selling a destructive device, possession of a controlled substance and dealing in a controlled substance.

The explosive devices were made by Sutherlin, who works at Black Magic in Terre Haute. He has a license to transport the material as well as make the devices for use in a show.

Hopkins said Sutherlin has not put on a show in over a year. He also contacted the manager at Black Magic, who told Hopkins the material was not taken from the premises with his knowledge.

After the explosives were seized, the Greencastle Fire Department ran a chemical analysis test of the explosives with their Sense I.R. machine. The Indiana State Police Bomb Unit then took the explosives out and detonated them.

Assisting Hopkins on the raids and investigations were Sgt. Joseph Grimes, Brownsburg Explosive detection K-9 Handler, Special Agent Thomas Hudson, Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Detective Michael Collins, Greencastle Police, Troopers Rich Myer and Gary Warfield, Indiana State Police Bomb Unit and from the Greencastle Police Department, Sgt. Terry Eastham, Officer Nick Eastham, Reserve Officer Jon Tesmer, Officer Ed Wilson, Officer Eric Vaughan and Detective Randy Seipel.

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  • Yes, fireworks which are, by the way, explosives, being handled in an apartment complex by someone on drugs who doesn't know what the hell he's doing. This could have been tragic.

    -- Posted by Geologist on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 8:21 AM

  • Why did the Indiana State Police detonate everything if it was all legal?

    -- Posted by hoop2077 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 8:35 AM

  • And it's Sky Magic, and they are out of Brazil... What else is wrong in this story?

    -- Posted by hoop2077 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 8:37 AM

  • so an honest family man make a mistake of selling a firecracker to someone and now hes pegged as a drugdealer and god only knows what else. this little town and the corrupt officials in it need to stop trying to ruin peoples lifes just because of who they are or what they do( by that i mean the fact they ride a crotchrocket, and by officials i mean the dirty cops). so mr.sutherlin beat the cops in court over some b.s. traffic ticket and now look what happens. HMMMMMMMMM

    -- Posted by master905 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:31 AM

  • There are several things wrong with this story and it isn't the man being "convicted" but the simple fact that once again greencastle police can't decide what they or going to convict some for as well as destruction of evidence. I find that odd. why would you arrest some one for a crime and then destroy the evidence that you have. especially if they are less deadly or tragic until detonated. so why would you make them become at higher risk by detonation. seem like the police department is back to old tricks of screwing people over and not exactly using their head.

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:43 AM

  • oh and lets not mention in the story that the drugs were found in a vehicle in the driveway that didnt belong to mr.sutherlin.

    -- Posted by master905 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:48 AM

  • I guess when you go through life helping friends and family out and have a legal license to make the "fireworks" and do so and beating the justice system that makes you worth bomb squads and trashing someones life. well maybe if it weren't for some of the trigger happy officers in this town, the town its self could lead a better and less complicated life. So i guess its also more important to make you record look better while trashing someone life! So what if he rides a crotchrocket and beat you at your own game deal with it suck it up and move on. We have 2yr olds for a justice system. lovely!

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:48 AM

  • well hey welcome to greencastle if your names in the game or commonly known automatically your a felon. well then how about every day when a cop would stalk me from my house to school because of my last name! if i go after them for harassment does that mean you'll try to pin something on me too?

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:50 AM

  • I find it pretty funny that the story states there were THREE people arrested, and oddly enough, only TWO were actually listed in the scanner! I believe the other one is even at work today! It isn't only cops that are the dirty ones in this town, but they sure are the ones that help other become dirty....

    So, my question is, where are the people that help expose the dirty cops for what they really are??? We all know and hear about how someone got busted for this or that, but strangely, only 1/2 of the amount of drugs (for example) make it in as evidence! Why aren't these police officers being randomly drug tested...? All companies do it now, except the Greencastle Police Department.

    As far as the fireworks, yes, it is called "SKY MAGIC," in Brazil. Also, as far as I'm concerned, it is not illegal to buy the materials needed to make firecrackers! Sutherlin has his license and it may have been bad judgement on who he gave it to, who in turn sold it to someone that obviously didn't use his head when it came down to it. MOST of the other comments on here are correct, however, everyone knows the police dept. has been trying to get every single Gold Club Member for one thing or another, and they think that they've hit the jackpot here.

    One last thing, just because of some stupid fireworks, doesn't mean he neglects his children. He's a great father from what I can tell! And throwing in this "intent to sell" is just a load of CRAP!!!!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 12:11 PM

  • Please note also, that just because the vehicle wasn't his, some "certain" officers wouldn't have really cared! Sutherlin's driving it, that's what they care about. Wonder how much stuff they could've planted in the trunk of his bike...!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 12:52 PM

  • Sounds like this hits too close to home for some of you. Criminals defending criminals?

    -- Posted by longtime resident on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 1:27 PM

  • CRIMINALS DEFENDING CRIMINALS???? No, we are defending a good man, a family man! Maybe its you that is the criminal defending the criminals.... who do you stand behind? Most of the Greencastle Police Department would fall into that catagory you seem to think highly of!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 1:47 PM

  • I would like to clarify that, there are those few good cops that don't harrass and try their hardest to catch someone in the act, spending most of their time on duty to get this achieved.... and to those "good" cops, thank you! I will stand behind them, and I'm quite sure they know who they are!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 1:55 PM

  • Most of you are all uneducated idiots. Here's an idea, why dont we wait until your "innocent" hero goes to court and has a decision from them before passing judgement on the police.

    And how about you stop riding your bikes like morons and use some common sense, then you can complain about being harassed.

    What a joke

    -- Posted by dreadpirateroberts=idiot on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 2:24 PM

  • To disrupt the erudite comments on here, I must ask that the comments remain relevant to the story and to not be directed at any other user.

    -- Posted by kevincrafton on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 2:30 PM

  • its quite humorous that you would call us uneducated however we were not the persons who referred to others as "idiots". which if you were educated you would be aware that "idiot" is a grammatical don't. Further more yes we ride our bikes and at times we get daring, although if you and any idea as to the topic your speaking on you would know that we refrain from putting anyone in danger but ourselves. Chances are high in probability that you know nothing about this person and are passing judgement because you have nothing better to do in life as well as knowing nothing about pyrotechnics and motorcycles as well. So we will wait until the hearing. The one thing you go right. As for referring to police in previous comments. you as well no nothing of us and or our experiences with the police of this town. So before you want to act like you have a degree in literature and or english why not trying to have an understanding of what your speaking on. We nor he has obstructed the justice system or defied the law. you should read all the comments genius. Because then you might have a fourth of an idea to even have the courage to try and respond to other comments. As for utter sillyness is not a proper term nor a proper spelling so go do some research and when you want to speak like an adult try again.

    As for Criminals defending criminals, that would be a 100% incorrect statement. Criminals don't defend other criminals, the either give a name or protect themselves. so you should try actually having been in the "justice" of greencastle and see how it works because then you might actual have a correct statement which would be the opposite of the comment you made.

    And yes it is true that there are many officers in greencastle that do their job correctly and to the best of their ability. However a fair majority of the officers don't. And yes i do know that for a fact. and yes most of the officers that get summoned to court decide that there is a high chance on them being guilty and leave the force to prevent the charges from being on their record.

    So **** us for sticking up for someone we know and is a matter of fact stepped up to help to help close people to me and will not stop to defend him. And he has helped me as well. now honestly would some one that is a criminal and not a family person and had mischievous plans go out of his way to help us. no matter what this man is a part of my family as far as i am concerned just like others and will stand up for him and the rest as well. So why doesn't everyone against him go get "educated" as Uttersillyness puts it and learn about what you want to bash and contradict others for. Because i am sure that if it were some one you were close to, helped you out, or a member of your family you do anything as well. So stop being hypocrites and make sure you know what your talking about before you run your mouth.

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 2:49 PM

  • You can call me what you want. I've never been arrested or had a stay at the nice Putnam County Jail. But I do stand up for what I belive is right. This is wrong in many ways. Remember there are two sides to every story. They print what you want to hear...and many of you believe what is written.

    Those of us who know Mr. Sutherlin. Know that he is a respected citizen in Putnam County and that he does not neglect his childern. If any one of us was in need, he would be the first person to help or find a way to help.

    So, before judging.....make sure you know the facts. Maybe few of our longtime residents have made a few mistakes in their past. We are all human and mistakes are made every day. Remember to err is human. We all put on our pants the same way...one leg at a time.

    So, if you belive that criminals are defending criminals....you are completely wrong. This is the United States of America....and we have a right to stand up for what we believe in.

    So take it to the bank and cash that one.

    -- Posted by cracker001 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 2:49 PM

  • i dont really think anyone including myself can honestly sit here and say that "i've never broken the law" and neither can you so why exactly are telling us to quit defending some one we did nothing wrong.? thats right you shouldn't. just like he shouldn't have been put in jail.

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 3:42 PM

  • Just because something is 'illegal', doesn't make it 'wrong'.

    -- Posted by hoop2077 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 3:44 PM

  • Right On Hoop2077

    -- Posted by cracker001 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 4:32 PM

  • I for one am VERY proud of GPD and all they do for our city . Seems like some

    of you have your head where the sun don't shine . You should be thankful you have a great group of officers that dedicate there lives to protect ALL of you.

    -- Posted by Blue6 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 4:39 PM

  • hoop2077 wrote "Just because something is 'illegal', doesn't make it 'wrong'."

    I sure hope you are kidding!?!?

    If illegal things aren't wrong, then society is going straight into a state of anarchy. These people allegedly broke the law and will have a chance to prove their alleged innocence if they can.

    -- Posted by Geologist on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 4:39 PM

  • the statement just because its illegal doesn't make it wrong is true. its not always the entire object or action is illegal but rather quantities or length etc. So obviously yes just because its illegal doesn't make it wrong. and one more time and for the thousandth time we are not saying that the entire GPD is at fault myself and other have already stated more than once that it is only some of them that are the problem. and we did state that we know quite a few officers that do their job properly. I honestly think you people dont think anything threw. just like old laws that were illegal are illegal now. heres one it should be illegal for persons to write or blog or other medias before using their brain. and im starting to think the entire city of greencastle but select few would be guilty of that alone.

    -- Posted by indysanyo on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 4:58 PM

  • Funny thing is.....two out of three were apprehended. The other was evicted from his apartment, quit his job, and left town. Where is the missing link?---Officials reported that he was not of interest in this case. He is now heading back to Daddy's in Martinsville.......Channel 6 news reported that he was to be apprehended soon. True or false? We must all ponder the question? Right or wrong? Three people and only two in the wrong and being punished?

    If the laws are the laws are they only for certain people?

    -- Posted by cracker001 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 5:35 PM

  • There has always been a market for drugs, now the economy has gained another market, Blackmarket Pro Fireworks! People selling high explosive fireworks along with illegal drugs will only lead to natural selection. If they had not gotten arrested, the problem would have shortly solved itself.

    -- Posted by Xgamer on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 5:41 PM

  • WOW! Lot of bull on this subject! Obviously, he had a license to transport and make these products so what's the big deal? I'd rather have this guy living beside me knowing how to use the products as apposed to someone else lighting off fireworks and being careless with them. As far as the marijuana charge goes, much rather have someone smoking dope and minding their own **** business beside me then being on meth and stealing me blind. By the way-I know who the truck belongs to and this guy nor Dave would be stupid enough to transport these amounts of drugs--which only leads me to one conclusion. hmm!

    -- Posted by dbltrbl on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 5:46 PM

  • the whole thing has been blown out of proportion.... but i totally agree with you double! you make a great point!!!!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 6:03 PM

  • Hmmm!! Looks like they arrested a DRUG DEALER!! Got them some fireworks and scumbag or two or 3 off the streets. Great Job GPD!!!!

    -- Posted by concerned3 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 8:18 PM

  • why did the bomb squad have to be called in to set off fireworks? why didn't they keep them and donate to the town for the 4th of july show...

    -- Posted by justmoveonwillya on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 9:21 PM

  • Okay, I'll keep it simple and to the facts: Class D Pyrotechnics were found in Mr. Sutherlin's possession, far different than "firecrackers". Mr. Sutherlin does not have "licenses" or "permits" for possession of Class D pyrotechnics. These pyrotechnics have to be stored at very specific conditions for safety. He had them in his home, do you know what they could have done to his home or those in it? Over 250 pills were found, that is beyond the amount of any prescription. This fact alone indicates intent to sell, the same for the marijuana. Why argue the marijuana and not the pyrotechnics and pills stored together in the same vehicle? Doesn't sound like Greencastle PD needed to plant evidence, Mr. Sutherlin gave them plenty already.

    -- Posted by mist54 on Wed, May 14, 2008, at 11:10 PM

  • WAY TO GO GPD!!! Keep up the good work. For those that do not like our officer's,do not call them for assistance when needed,leave our county and go else where, or try doing their job. The choice is yours!!!!!!!!!

    -- Posted by what_it's_worth on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 12:22 AM

  • didnt see where the article specifically mentioned Class D explosives, just mentioned explosive devices...but from the picture i see some mortars and bottle rockets. And what kinda pills were they? asprins? who knows

    -- Posted by justmoveonwillya on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 3:42 AM

  • AS YOU SEE JUSTMOVEONWILLYA HAS THE RIGHT IDEA JUST ASK !

    -- Posted by OLD SCHOOL on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 4:16 AM

  • MY QUESTION IS THAT IF THE CALL CAME IN AT 6:30 A.M. WHY DID IT TAKE TILL 12:00 TO MAKE FIRST RAID! I KNOW THAT IF YOU WAIT 5.5 HOURS TO MAKE THIS RAID HOW MANY PEOPLE WAS PUT AT RISK TO WAIT FOR THIS ARREST. WHAT WAS IT THEIR NOT HOME....? I'M SURE THAT SCHOOL KID'S DID GET UP TO GO AND WAIT FOR THE SCHOOL BUS. PLUS ELDERLY THAT HAD NO PLACE TO GO BUT DRINK COFFEE OR SLEEP IN .. THANKS FOR THE GREAT PROTECTION........

    -- Posted by OLD SCHOOL on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 5:12 AM

  • Anyone who knows what they're looking at can see Class D's in that photo. Three counts equal three Class D's. As for pills, he was charged for possession and dealing of a controlled substance. Asprin is not a controlled substance.

    -- Posted by mist54 on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 5:54 AM

  • Why was Mr. Sutherlin charged with drug possession when the drugs were found in a truck belonging to someone else? Why are the members of The Gold Club (the motorcycle club Mr. Sutherlin belongs to) constantly harassed by the Greencastle Police Department while Harley riders aren't? Is there some discrimination going on? A personal vendetta?

    -- Posted by cloverlady on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 5:55 AM

  • WOW! I find it so scary that so many people are ready to bash our Police Department! For those of you on the Bashing Train, Please, do us all a favor and don't waste their time by calling them with all your domestic issues, dog issues, neighbor issues; please allow them to do what they are hired to do~protect our city.

    If those explosives would have gone off in that apartment or house or God forbid, a car driven with your children in it, then you would be singing a differant song. You would be asking ~Where were the Police?? And about the pills? Give me a break, everyone knows the laws, just don't break them and you should be ok~ Or are those who are always breaking the laws, and trying to get away with it the one's complaining...hmmmm

    Keep doing what your doing GPD!! Thank you for all you do!

    -- Posted by never101 on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 7:24 AM

  • It took 5.5 hours for the raid because the judicial system emplemented a little thing called a search warrant, mainly because the world can not trust law enforcement but are so quick to stand by the bad guy. You should be thankful that law enforcement has destroyed the devices and they were not found at your work, or your grandma's nursing home or, heavin forbid, your child's school or daycare. Now, this may be a huge misunderstanding, but I for one find comfort in knowing until proven otherwise my family is safe from a drug addict and/or dealer who could destroy my world in a matter of seconds, and you better believe that's all the time it takes.

    -- Posted by WTFRUthinkin on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 7:26 AM

  • Man oh man- there sure are a lot of brave folks here with what appears to be full law degrees under their belts. Heres an idea, why dont all the self proclaimed lawyers that apparently have no job (they have time to type crap on here) go to the police station and offer their wisdom to the police. Maybe then they can fix the "police problems". Give me a break.

    By the way, I know most of the police, and there are good officers there. Why dont you try asking one of them what has happened in this case rather than listening to a few knuckleheads that play armchair policeman on here. Im sure they would be happy to clarify whatever information that they can.

    If you are scared to identify yourself, I'm sure a telephone call to the chief of police could answer your questions. I believe the number is 653-2925.

    -- Posted by dreadpirateroberts=idiot on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 8:09 AM

  • we all love to argue. dont we? we have known about these arrest for two days now. thats not very long. i am sure there is a lot more investigating to do. the police have 72 hours to charge somebody with a crime and get them before a judge with preliminary charges. these charges can and usually do get reduced so u the defendant will take a plea bargain and they the courts win their conviction. they have like a 90% or better conviction rate for these reasons.

    for people saying the police are planting stuff, they dont dislike dave that much. he isnt out there terrorizing our town. dave is a really nice guy, a great father and a good business manager. sadly he has broken the law and now in the publics eye. these arrest went like dominoes it just ended at daves house. the cops didnt know it was going to end there, i am sure.

    i use to run around in this down just like dave does. when ur out that much everybody sees u, especially the police because they are out also. they know what u do, they know who you hang out with. just watch and you do learn what people do. the police didnt like me back in those days and they pulled me over every chance they got. they searched my car every chance they got and they never planted anything on me. when they would find something, yep it was mine.

    i do like dave sutherlin and i do like the police, most of them anyway. they are just doing there job, daves lawyer and the courts will figure out if those drugs are daves and those fireworks were illegal for him to have. if they arent then it will surely work itself out. for u dave supporters out there... give him your support...i am sure he will need help with an attorney....$10 or $20 from everyone would surley help out his cause. if u believe the police are wrong.

    oh yeah dont know if it is true or not but i heard somebody is in federal court all this week. you all know who, i am sure. does anyone know for sure?? maybe u can use your connections and find out and let us all know. i hate hearing things a month later.

    -- Posted by badboy46120 on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 8:50 AM

  • 1.How do you know only half the drugs make it into evidence. 2. I'm sure the police are only allowed to follow the facts. 3.Just because the media said there were two arrested and a third to come doesn't mean this person is in jail. He may just get a court appearance. Face it people the media isn't always correct or accurate sometimes the facts get turned and re-worded. I am sure the police aren't holding a grudge against some stupid traffic ticket. I know some officers and they are not on drugs. If they need drug tested so be it, the most you will likely find is caffeine (From drinking coffee) and chlorophyll (From eating Salad) For everyone who is writing if you want the facts then get away from the computer and research public records probably located in the court house. Fact is these people screwed up and got caught. If your going to type the law know the law. These blogs I am reading are based on hearsay. The courts will do there job and determine whether they are guilty or innocent.

    -- Posted by Reader2 on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 9:06 AM

  • WOW. What a society we have created.

    1. Police do not write laws, they enforce them

    2. Mr. Sutherlin was found at his home by ?8 police officers with these ILLEGAL items in his possession or on his property. I guess all 8 police officers were in on "planting" evidence.

    3. Over 30 grams of Marijuana.

    4. 250 pills

    5. Mr. Sutherlin lives within a baseball throw of where my daughter goes to school along with 300 other children.

    Can you imagine if these exposive devices would have gone off with the school in close proximity. Several children could have been hurt or killed. Imagine if there would have been a fir. Fireman, Police officers, EMS workers, and most certainly bystanders could have been hurt or killed.

    Dealing DRUGS in a neighborhood where children live, and living and dealing drugs next to a school---Throw the book at him and teach him a lesson.

    Police Officers risk their lives each and every day for each and every one of us. Despite whether or not you write negatives on this site or not, they will always be there for you. Good job GPD, keep up the good work for our community.

    -- Posted by Whynotwrite on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 10:08 AM

  • So if someone has 3 thousand cases of beer in their basement, but only drinks a beer every other day, are they an alcoholic?

    We don't know if the suspect was selling drugs or not, and neither do you WHYNOTWRITE. So quit playing Keyboard cop. Mr. Sutherlin is innocent as of right now.

    And if I could 'whynotwrite'...I'd like to throw a book at you...its by Ron Paul titled The Revolution: A Manifesto. You should read it, it would do you good.

    -- Posted by kapem on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 1:00 PM

  • First and foremost, Thanks to those that serve our communities in public service that risk their lives daily (24/7) and do it RIGHT! You ALL deserve better then what some are stating here!

    Second, the facts will come out. It's called a Probable Cause (PC)Affidavit. That's where the individual(s) ACCUSED (keyword) of a crime is given his/her rights to "What they are being charged with" Etc. The Prosecutor sorts through the investigator's report(s) and determines what charges to file on the accussed and determines if the "State of Indiana" has met it's requirements to go further. Most of the time, ALL law enforcement officers have the knowledge of "PC"; if not, they usually ALWAYS contact the prosecutor for direction/interpretation, if challenges occur during an investigation. Once prosecutor files the charges/affidavits, Then, the judge, will decide if Probable Cause existed to determine, "Where do we go from here.." Simple...two sides to every story and right to speedy trial by peers. Something our forefathers faught for and continue to fight for today. Third, I'm sure everyone wants to know "Why" it took so long for them to go to the apt., well, I'm sure it will show that the investigator(s) were continuing their investigation, on top of getting facts for their PC for their case as well as getting a warrant for the search, so that THEY could protect the accused's constitutional rights. These things take time, it's not Hollywood here, Time always tick's (SLOW) realistically. I really don't think the Police left the area unattended while the others worked on the PC. We will hear both sides of the story soon enough. Support whatever side you choose, but, be diplomatic and respectful of what both sides of the story did to get here. The truth is/will come out.

    As far as alleged 'dirty/corrupt' officers, let the chain of command know your FACTS 1st, before publicly creating a sandstorm. Afterall, that's how the police handled this investigation, they acted diligently on a tip and processed it....GREAT JOB to all involved! You are to be commended!

    -- Posted by ckenthefacts on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 1:06 PM

  • Face it folks...as long as you live in this small town you will be forced to deal with the corruption. There is no such thing as innocent until proven guilty in your town...because they have already been tried in the media. They will forever be remembered for this incident.

    -- Posted by ExHoosier on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 2:39 PM

  • I think this whole article and blog should be pulled. It was a poorly researched story even on something as simple as the name of the fireworks store. The majority of comments based on very little to do with the story and lack of knowledge on the issues at hand are nothing short of sad.

    -- Posted by gingb2 on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 9:14 PM

  • Just for the record to those of you who think the GPD are "all" upstanding citizens themselves... NEWS FLASH! They aren't! Trying to stay on subject here, certain officers DO have a personal issue with us Gold Clubbers.... and some of them don't seem to want to stop until "they're" satisfied. This issue has been added to one of those personal issues. To the one who made the comment on how the officers only seem to go after the rockets and not cruisers, it is true, its a known fact, if you pay attention. We DO have loud pipes, they do bring attention (and again, do save lives), and they can be heard blocks away even while doing the speed limit! For those of you who do know Sutherlin, this is not the first issue with a certain officer that had it out for him/us, and I highly doubt it will be the last. There IS descrimination going on here, and although this "seems" off subject, believe me, its hitting the nail on the head!

    How can you tell me that nothing was planted, or he wasn't being set up for certain? The search warrent didn't even arrive until AFTER the police showed up and and made the "search!" How does anyone have the right to say what is a fact just because it was reported in the news?

    As far as, "move and don't come back if you don't like the GPD and its operations," how about we clean up the GPD's act and keep the good cops and get rid of the bad ones???? Just because a police officer says one thing, are they automatically correct? What about the one's that take the law into their own hands and make the laws up as they go? And does our judicial system usually believe the officer in the case? The officer's are SUPPPOSED to "tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth, 'so help them God!'" Everyone is! Well, all I have to say, is please do help them, God. If they don't tell the truth, they have God to deal with in the end, not those they had the "personal issue" with. Everyone gets their's in the end, and we all should know that. Call it God or karma, or whatever religion/God you believe in, but I, personally, believe it all comes back to you... and I believe it's 10 fold...? So, no thank you, I do believe I'll stay in this town! I grew up here and do intend to stay here. I don't care how many times I have to defend myself or anyone I care about, I'll stand up for OUR RIGHTS AS CITIZENS, and be innocent until proven guilty! If you're innocent, justice will unfold at one point or another!

    Oh yeah, and I do say this with some of the GPD in mind.... "It's not illegal unless you're caught!" Of course, even though as citizens, we know our right, and our laws as well, but some of them seem to be above the law.....So wait, just wait... You'll be caught sometime! I have my faith, and I KNOW MY FAITH WON'T LET ME DOWN!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Thu, May 15, 2008, at 11:10 PM

  • I have known this individual for 18 years, and let me just say "Its about time" I truly believe what goes around comes around and this proves it! Mr Sutherlin has had his hand or nose where it shouldnt be for years and I think its about time he gets what is coming to him. I do however feel for his children and girlfriend, as I am sure she has NO idea what or who he really is!

    -- Posted by thistownsucks on Fri, May 16, 2008, at 1:45 PM

  • I think it's about time for you too "H." When's your court date?!?

    -- Posted by Slammed on Fri, May 16, 2008, at 6:10 PM

  • I have known Dave for a long time now and I tell you I was shocked when I heard this story. As a father himself I can assure you that he wouldn't have anything around his kids or put them in harms way. But around the fourth of July drive around this town and see all the "protective" fathers letting there kids run around with firecrackers and setting off mortor shells. Any on of which would take out an eye or possibly kill a child. So he had some fireworks that he had a license for. I remember him showing me his license when he first recieved it. Anyone of you can buy explosive materials without a license and it be perfectly legal right off the net. Regardless of my thoughts on what may be the "real" issue here is that there is someone facing serious criminal charges and life ruining jail if not prison time over a bunch of finger pointing. All of you reading or adding to this story have our own skeletons and what gives any of us the right to judge Dave. Not all of us get along so if you didn't like or get along with Dave so what? I am proud to call him my friend. Good Luck Dave!!

    -- Posted by Fsjcherokee on Fri, May 16, 2008, at 10:01 PM

  • His license does not allow him to possess the class of explosives he had in his possession. They cannot be compared to the fireworks we buy and set off in the street. They are highly dangerous. What would have happened if he were in a car accident, if they were in his home and there was a fire?

    -- Posted by Fair1 on Fri, May 16, 2008, at 10:44 PM

  • we'd say oooooohh ahhhhhhhh purdy

    -- Posted by justmoveonwillya on Sat, May 17, 2008, at 1:10 AM

  • actually his permitt does allow him to posses and make that type of fireworks. i have worked for sky magic a couple of times and the devices that he had was made for part of the shows. they where part of something called fireballs. they set them off on the news and if watched it you know that they were no bigger then a cherry bomb. also in the picture that is shown above everything in that picture is completely legal and safe. any body can purchase and or own the stuff. the items in the boxes are profesional ariels. blackpowder is used to put on top and that is what gives it the rocket effect. also the paper forgot to add that Mr. Sutherlin was prepairing to help put on the july 4th show in greencastle. he also did the same last year.

    -- Posted by sonicjj on Sat, May 17, 2008, at 9:38 AM

  • Why then, did an ATF agent have the owner of Skymagic come to the scene and identify the three shells Mr. Sutherlin had? The ATF knew who to call because those three were not made or purchased by Mr. Sutherlin and were labled as Skymagic's. Since you worked there, you should know the number to call to find a clue. They are actuall pyrotechnicians, and you are not. Mr. Sutherlin is not either. He is called a hobbiest with limited restrictions.

    -- Posted by mist54 on Sat, May 17, 2008, at 10:26 AM

  • yes i do know the owners of sky magic as far a the atf calling them there name was on the fireworks. the perment allows a person to transport, ship, receive, or posses explosive materal. and yes a hobbiest can do the same thing. also how do you know they were not purchased? again the permit allows a person to purchase them from just about any firework manufactor. also you can purchase all the items without a permit. all the permit allows you to do is make them possess them, and set them off. i am posting this because the paper and news has made it out like he had some kind of dangerous high explosive. these were just perfesional grade fireworks for a show that was coming up. and i am sorry i did misprint where he put the last show on at. it wasnt the greencastle show. he did it in bloomington. Mr. Sutherlin was an employee of there's and you do have to go thru training and a test to get your permit.

    -- Posted by sonicjj on Sat, May 17, 2008, at 3:22 PM

  • OK. First, I don't wish all this that is going down on anybody. Second, there is alot of assumptions being made right now. Maybe those shells were purchased. That is not the big issue. The problem is if he was storing these in his house or not. Yes, a manufacturer can sell to anyone IF they are sponsoring or shooting a show. It does not mean they can sell these to people to take home for personal use, or store for a future show. Are you sure they were for an upcoming show? The arrest was Monday, when was this show going to happen? Where was he storing them until then? You can not keep those kind of shells in your house period, permit or no permit. Also, his permit does not allow him to sell anything.

    -- Posted by mist54 on Sat, May 17, 2008, at 10:48 PM

  • well why cant he? i got all kinds of bottle rockets an farcrackers an roman candles left over from last year...stored in a nice cool dry place an ready for this years 4th of july....it is the middle of may, so wont be long an everybody will be settin things off in their backyards even tho they signed that lil piece of paper sayin they'd go to a designated site. anywho far as i'm concern'd this has been blown way outta proportion, and like the media on tv, the article shoulda prolly told the story a lil better and/or told the whole story. 250 pills? well what were they? I know some elderly that pop 8 or more pills in the mornin so when they get their prescriptions filled that adds up to 240+, and as far as the explosive devices...well typical run of the mill media there, lets scare everyone and use big fancy words that in the news everyday...i've got some too, ther called black cats...firecrakers that is.

    -- Posted by justmoveonwillya on Sun, May 18, 2008, at 3:29 AM

  • He can't because they weren't bottle rockets,"farcrackers", or roman candles. Go to the stands this summer and you won't find shells like the ones he was charged with having for sale there. If you read what was written earlier you can only purchase them from the manufacturer, not under a tent in a parking lot, and you could only buy them if you have an actual show. Can't take them home and store them with your blackcats, genius.

    -- Posted by Fair1 on Sun, May 18, 2008, at 8:11 AM

  • well looks to me like some fire works, an some look like the ones put in shows and a few others look like ones you can get at the tent in the parkin lot. But like it says, he's licensed, although he didnt get em from one place doesnt mean he cant get the supplies from another outfit. Just sounds to me like the way this story was presented alot of things are blown way out of proportion.

    -- Posted by justmoveonwillya on Sun, May 18, 2008, at 10:15 PM

  • Let's look at the big picture here forget the explosives what about the pot and pills 3 houses away from TZ. I garduated from high school with David and he is a nice guy but that does not give him the right to deal.

    -- Posted by mother of 3 on Mon, May 19, 2008, at 11:38 AM

  • i would just like to thank you dave sutherlin for always being a great friend and role model to me. i know that your a good person and have always been there for me and whole lot of others when they needed a friend, just for an instance when a woman who was a customer of yours at you store and her son had just passed and you knew she was in a bad time you raised money to pay off her fridge that she owed on as well as to help pay for funeral costs. i can promise you i'll help you anyway i can, thank you dave.

    -- Posted by master905 on Mon, May 19, 2008, at 5:13 PM

  • Actually, "MIst54," Dave did have the right to have these materials stored. Let me tell you EXACTLY what his License says!!!! "You have been approved to transport, ship, recieve or possess explosive materials as an employee possessor under the Federal explosive license or permit indicated above..."

    Get YOUR facts straight before you state it!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Wed, May 21, 2008, at 10:15 AM

  • Hmmmm....... And what would the stories say if Mr. Sutherlins house exploded, a child from the school found an explosive and was hurt, or if drugs were sold and caused death to one of these children?? What kind of "Saint" would you be making him out to be then?? Face it, your "role model" was selling drugs. Fireworks are fun, but not in the quanity they were found in. Super job GPD!!!!

    Oh!!! Has anyone drove down County Road 300 East to see the display of burnouts done by the street bikes on Tuesday night during their "memorial service" for Willie Bartley. And they wonder why the police seek them out.

    -- Posted by concerned3 on Wed, May 21, 2008, at 2:39 PM

  • what happend to innocent until proven guilty there concernd. i know that dave was not selling drugs as they were found in a vehicle that didnt belong to him, and he wouldnt do it. as for the burnouts we were paying tribute to a best friend that passed the way we wanted to, so we didnt do a 21 gun salute our bad.

    -- Posted by master905 on Wed, May 21, 2008, at 6:13 PM

  • so if i put some pot in my vehicle and park it in your driveway and then call the cops are you a drug dealer.

    -- Posted by master905 on Wed, May 21, 2008, at 6:17 PM

  • Well, my thanks to Slammed for finally setting everyone straight on exactly what this "license" says. Too bad it wasn't more specific as to whether he's licensed as a dealer, importer, manufacturer, or manufacturer-limited. It did say he could possess explosives as an "employee possessor", but the above article states he hasn't put on a show for over a year, and they have no knowlege of him having them. Those explosives (not all pictured, just the ones identified) come from a controlled environment with regulation storage. Can they just go home with someone, licensed or not, to be stored however they want? Usually they have to be a certain amount of feet away from inhabited buildings, etc.?

    Since this license has made him a demigod to all his little followers, please tell us what that license says about selling his homemade explosives to others?

    -- Posted by Fair1 on Wed, May 21, 2008, at 7:47 PM

  • The fact is Special Agent Thomas Hudson ATF, believes Mr. Sutherlin went outside of, or abused, his license. The courts will decide who is right here. If Mr. Sutherlin did everything right; then he'll have an easy day in court.

    Unfortunately, you quoting a few words out of a license proves nothing. He is charged with violating that license (3 counts).

    Refuting you is really a waste of time because you do not understand what you quoted. You should do some research.

    -- Posted by mist54 on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 12:25 AM

  • THANK YOU never101!!!! You are on it!

    -- Posted by what_it's_worth on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 1:12 AM

  • DID SOMEBODY NOTICE IF THE PATROL CARS STAYED RUNNING OR DID THEY JUST WALK-UP??

    -- Posted by OLD SCHOOL on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 2:05 AM

  • plz leave your comments of what we did for Mr.Bartley out of your comments. Has nothing to do with this.... I do recall a couple of county deputies coming out there just to make sure everything was ok one during our candle light ceremony and one as the burnouts were going on so there! Not a thing was said about it. Leave this out of your comments!

    -- Posted by master905 on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 9:24 AM

  • Master, quit trying to blame the owner of the truck in Dave's driveway for the marijuana...IT WASNT HIS!

    And where was Daves truck in all of this? why was he even driving the other truck?

    -- Posted by kapem on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 11:27 AM

  • You know what...? How about we all just stop with the bs thats going on in the responses. Are any of you Dave or the other two that were involved in this? Do any of you know what is and is not completely true? I know what I know, and yes, some of you others on here do as well, but for everyone that are making assumptions, just quit! You're all ruining a man's name, his life, and his family, and you don't even know what's REALLY happened! So pretty much, he's already guilty to all of you. You've made that perfectly clear. How would you feel if this were you, and none of it were true, but you were already ruined in your community? Sure, there will ALWAYS be some of us that will stand by Dave 100%! We KNOW him, we know who he is and who he isn't. And believe me, he IS NOT who you're all trying to make him out to be!!!!!

    As for the deceased, HAVE SOME RESPECT! Leave Mr. Bartley out of this! If you were not a part of that ceremony, you don't need to say a thing about him when this doesn't even concern him! He's not even here to defend himself!!!

    Your mother's should have taught you better.

    Why does this town want soooo badly to be in other people's business but God forbid if your own's thrown out into the open and people are talking about you this way! How about you sit on that for a while and give Mr. Sutherlin a break, considering YOU DO NOT KNOW THE TRUTH YET!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 3:22 PM

  • Oh and by-the-way, looks to me like you thought it was worth it, Mist....

    You seem to think you know a lot about Dave's license and what he is or isnt allowed to do, and what his title is... So, please, enlighten us all a little more!

    -- Posted by Slammed on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 4:34 PM

  • Mr. Bartley was never brought into this. It was the few childish followers doing burnouts (Illegal) during that ceremony. If deputies did respond, maybe they didnt see what was going on, or maybe the wrong deputies responded. I happen to know a few deputies that cant wait to catch a street bike exceeding the posted speed or doing something stupid. Save your gas money for impound fees guys. Its about to happen.

    -- Posted by concerned3 on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 5:55 PM

  • so concernd3 sounds like your the perfect human who never ever did anything wrong. must be nice.

    -- Posted by master905 on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 8:10 PM

  • well i figured since we are bring the street bikes into this again i would like to add something on the note of "I happen to know a few deputies that cant wait to catch a street bike exceeding the posted speed or doing something stupid. Save your gas money for impound fees guys. Its about to happen." i ride one of those bikes and i to cant wait for it to happen. i have hired a full time attorney to make sure and tell me what is and isn't the law, alot of cops in this town is going to get a wake-up call this summer on the matter of "they are the law". i am not saying that we dont speed or do things that we are not suppose to, but just because you drive on four wheels doesnt make you speeding any better. i know most of the police force as do the rest of the goldclubs some of them are great cops that are trying to do there job, but there are others that are not. for those who think we are crimals maybe you need to get your facts straight. when anyone in this greencastle cominuty needs help we usally try to raise money or do something to help. we have also help the police several times, including raising money for the softball team. yes we stay out late at night, but we "were" there eyes at night and helped when we could. i am sorry to get off topic, but it is where this all started. like slammed stated, please be respectfull for the fallin friend. and no matter what anyone thinks most the police in town do understand what we was doing out there.

    -- Posted by sonicjj on Thu, May 22, 2008, at 9:17 PM

  • Where to start? Too bad most of you don't realize how naive you sound. Slammed, aside from "thistownsucks", I don't see where anyone on here has tried to slander Sutherlin in any way personally or professionally or hurt his family or rep. You don't seem to know what kind of license he has, but think because he has one that he has free reign and that's not likely with the ATF. Seems since you've run out of "facts", you've resorted to finger pointing and overuse of exclamation points!!!!!!

    I believe Sutherlin is innocent until proven guilty. You can stand behind him 100%, but you'd be better off to stand behind your God and your faith that you mentioned earlier 100%. Chances are no matter how well you know this person, there's always something you've yet to learn. I hope he appreciates the devotion of a friend like you. Since you've portrayed yourself to be pretty big and bad, I hope you're the first one in his face if you find out he hasn't been truthful to you.

    As far as streetbikes are concerned, I happen to know a few of you and think you are pretty good guys. However, I'm not sure with the comments made on this site how you expect the people of G'castle to view you. You've tried hard to defend or deny your friend's possession of drugs and pills, yet claim they must have belonged to the person owning the vehicle. Has Sutherlin led you to belive this? Do you know this to be true, and how is this fair to that other person? I know the owner of that vehilcle to be a pretty good guy too.

    Also, please don't think us to be so dumb when it comes to your antics. Its great to hear of the good things you've done. I doubt most people know that and thank you for it. In the same paragraph, you mention you have done the wrong things, or "i am not saying that we dont speed or do things that we are not suppose to". Why? How am I to feel when one of you pass my car carrying my family on 240 on one wheel, or I meet you on Vet. Hwy with your legs up over your handle bars? Don't come back at me with remarks on my speeding or my bad driving as I'm not one of those people. I watch for bikes and I respect them, so respect me and my family too.

    Bikes are fun, but keep the crazy stuff for a place where no one else but you can get hurt. It just takes one of you to make the whole group look bad.

    Everyone reading your comments understands this guy is a friend of yours. But, if you find he has been wrong, continuing to support him 100% will just make you both wrong. This guy or anyone else who does something to make your group look bad, deserves your scrutiny since it hurts all of you.

    -- Posted by itmatters on Sat, May 24, 2008, at 11:29 AM

  • i happen to be "one of those riders" and no i dont do drugs and for that matter very rarely drink as do most of the people we ride with. and what does arbys have to do with it, i mean they do have good food i'll give you that, but sounds like your just being stupid. but thats ok truth2008 keep talking about us like were retarded crackheads at least me and god know the truth.

    -- Posted by master905 on Sun, May 25, 2008, at 6:59 AM
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