The case drew some national media attention because Huttle had been pardoned a few days earlier by newly inaugurated President Trump for his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol riot.

The Indiana State Police Thursday (Feb. 27) released at statement on behalf of Special Prosecutor Chris Vawter of Clinton County reporting the results of the investigation undertaken by both agencies.

At approximately 4:21 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 26, a Jasper County sheriff’s deputy (whose name has not been released) conducted a traffic stop on SR 14 in Jasper County for a speeding vehicle (70 mph in a 55 mph zone). The driver and sole occupant, identified as Huttle, was found to be a habitual traffic violator, a felony.

Vawter’s report said that upon being informed of his arrest, Huttle fled to his vehicle, entered the driver’s seat, and “reached in a manner consistent with retrieving a weapon.” The deputy pursued and attempted to apprehend Huttle. A struggle ensued and the deputy observed Huttle raising a firearm while stating, “I’m shooting myself.” Believing that Huttle posed a deadly threat, the deputy fired multiple shots, striking Huttle. The deputy then retreated to his vehicle and awaited backup. Lifesaving measures were attempted, but Huttle was pronounced deceased at the scene

Investigators later recovered a loaded 9mm handgun and additional ammunition inside the vehicle near where Huttle had reached, according to Vawter. Dash camera footage confirmed that Huttle raised an object while inside the vehicle.

After a thorough investigation, the Indiana State Police District 13 Criminal Investigation Division presented the case to the Clinton County prosecutor’s office on Feb. 26 for independent review. “Based on the evidence and statutory authority under state law, the deputy was legally justified in using deadly force to defend himself,” Vawter concluded.

The special prosecutor further explained that probable cause existed to arrest Huttle for a felony. “Despite lawful commands, Huttle attempted to reach for a firearm, posing an imminent threat to the deputy’s safety. Given these facts, the deputy’s actions were legally justified under Indiana law.”

The investigation is now closed, and no charges will be filed.

Huttle had an extensive history of driving offenses dating back to at least 20 years, including an intoxicated driving-related conviction. Huttle was not permitted to carry a firearm due to his driving-related felony convictions.

Huttle had been released from prison last July after serving a six-month sentence for his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot. He had traveled to Washington, D.C. at that time with his uncle who was also charged and sentenced in connection with the incident.

Following last month’s officer-involved shooting, Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson released a statement stating that for “full transparency,” he had requested the Indiana State Police to investigate the incident. The officer involved was placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard protocol.

  
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Local News Briefs

PCPL lists March activities, programs

The Pulaski County Public Library has listed its programs and activities for March. The include free trees for Earth Week, an adult refrigerator magnet craft, and kids’ “spring break bingo.”

For more information on any program, call the library at 574-946-3432 or visit the library’s website at www.pulaskicounty.lib.in.us.

NIPSCO accepting applications for 2025 environmental action grant

Local organizations seeking funding for environmental initiatives may apply

MERRILLVILLE -  Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Environmental Action Grant, an annual endowment awarded to local organizations to help fund environmental projects and programming across NIPSCO’s service area.

Now in its 10th year, the Environmental Action Grant has historically provided $577,000 in funding to a total of 143 projects with an emphasis on environmental education and restoration across northern Indiana.

PACE grants application deadline March 3

Pulaski Alliance for Community Education (PACE) is offering $60,000 in educational grants to eligible organizations this spring.

Organizations whose primary mission is public education may apply for grant funds. Participants in CAPE II/III are also encouraged to apply for a portion of funds available to sustain or continue original CAPE program activities.

PCT invites photographers to capture spirit of county in photo contest

Participate, share perspective on county

Pulaski County Tribe (PCT) has announced the launch of the "Embrace the Pace Pulaski County" photography contest, inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to showcase life in Pulaski County through the lens of their cameras.

“With cash prizes and the opportunity to have your work displayed county-wide, this contest is an exciting way to celebrate the beauty and community of Pulaski County,” said Brandi Larkin, PCT president.

Firewood cutting for home use available at TR State Park

WINAMAC - The public is invited to cut up and remove certain downed trees at Tippecanoe River State Park for firewood.

Trees eligible for firewood have fallen as a result of natural causes or have been dropped by property staff. They are along roadsides or in public areas such as campsites and picnic areas.

  

Indiana News

Yakym concludes Indiana Innovation Tour

WARSAW (Feb. 21) - Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) concluded his Indiana Innovation Tour Friday, which included stops across the second district.

At each stop, Yakym talked with Hoosiers about a wide range of issues important to them, including regulations, taxes, jobs, the economy, a secure southern border, government efficiency and more.

Rep. Culp to serve on U.S. EPA Local Government Advisory Committee

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 13) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently appointed State Rep. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) as a member of its Local Government Advisory Committee.

Culp said there are numerous advisory committees with the purpose to help the president and executive branch better understand key topics. The main job of the committee is to tackle critical problems by working with the different governing bodies to develop common sense, long-lasting solutions.

Gov. Braun collaborates on Avian Flu effort in Indiana

Also: key facts on bird flu

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 13) – Gov. Mike Braun issued a statement Thursday regarding Avian Flu monitoring in Indiana.

The first Indiana case of 2025 occurred at a turkey farm in Jay County along the Ohio border, and the Indiana Board of Animal Health is monitoring which counties are affected.

Reps. Culp, Jordan encourage students to page during 2025 legislative session at Statehouse

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 6) – Applications are live for the Indiana House Page Program during the 2025 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis, according to State Reps. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) and Jack Jordan (R-Bremen).

Culp said Hoosier students ages 13 to 18 are invited to spend the day assisting lawmakers and staff, touring the Indiana Statehouse and listening in on the legislative session.

Indiana COVID-19 News

Feb. 17: IDH reports state flu level 'very high'

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Health reported Feb. 11 that COVID-like illness emergency department visits numbered 462 statewide from Jan. 29-Feb. 4, up 70 from its previous weekly report. There were no state COVID-19 hospital admissions during that time period, and one (reported) COVID death.

In addition, the IDH reported Feb. 17, that the state's influenza-like illness level is " very high" for the week ending Feb. 8, with 17 flu-associated deaths during the reporting period (97 total for the current season).

  

Post News

Jasper County deputy cleared in Jan. 26 officer-involved shooting of Hobart man

FRANKFORT (Feb. 27) – A state police investigation, reviewed by the Clinton County prosecutor’s office, has concluded that the Jan. 26 officer-involved fatal shooting of a Hobart man was “legally justified.”

The incident led to the death of Matthew Huttle, 42, following a traffic stop and attempted arrest of Huttle by a Jasper County sheriff’s deputy along SR 14 near the Jasper/Pulaski county line.

‘Spirit of Alliance’ award presented to Kim Steele

FRANCESVILLE – Each year on Presidents’ Day, Alliance Bank employees convene to learn, celebrate and grow together. The highlight of the day is always the announcement of the Terry Stevens Spirit of Alliance Award.

Nominated by recipient’s peers, the winner demonstrates the core values of Alliance Bank by his/her daily actions.

New staff members join CFoPC

The Community Foundation of Pulaski County, Inc. (CFoPC) announces the hiring of two new staff members.

Stacia Conrad will serve as coalition coordinator for the Pulaski County Early Learning Network, a CFoPC program, and Heidi Wright joins the foundation as its director of programs.

PC Health Department opens office on county’s West Side

FRANCESVILLE – A ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the Pulaski County Health Department’s new West Side office was held Wednesday, Feb. 19, at Parkview Haven, Francesville.

The health department’s satellite office will provide essential health services such as immunizations, health screenings, environmental services, and wellness programs directly to residents who previously faced barriers in accessing care.

Winamac attorney disbarred in disciplinary action

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Supreme Court, in an attorney disciplinary action Feb. 14, disbarred Winamac attorney Nathan Pearson for committing “attorney misconduct arising from his sexual relations with three clients,” according to court documentation.

An investigation by the high court’s disciplinary commission found that Pearson engaged in inappropriate conduct with at least three clients between 2016 and 2018. An investigation into Pearson’s misconduct began in July 2023.