Gun Charges Filed In Connection With Officers' Deaths

U.S. Attorney Josh Minkler formally announced charges Monday morning against three individuals accused of illegally purchasing firearms that were used in the fatal shootings of Boone County sheriff's deputy Jacob Pickett and Terre Haute police officer Robert Pitts.

Dawn Rochon, 29, of Indianapolis has been indicted on eight counts involving false statements made to acquire a firearm, which is a 10 year felony.

Tiffiany Dean, 33, of West Terre Haute, and Levi Brenton, 20, of Terre Haute both face charges involving acquisition of a firearm, illegal possession of a firearm, and the illegal transfer of a firearm charges -- also referred to as lie and buy from a firearm store, or a “straw purchase.” Although Dean could legally purchase a firearm, Brenton could not which is what led Dean to purchase the gun for Brenton. Both are in federal custody, and the penalties if convicted are 10 years.

Terre Haute Police Chief John Plasse said he hopes the charges send a message to others.

“That they will be held accountable when they place firearms in the hands of those that should not have them," Plasse said. "We know nothing can be done to bring back our friend, however holding these individuals responsible for their actions will help us with the healing process."

Monday's announcement comes as the Department of Justice is focusing on gun violence and  crimes through a strategy known as Project Safe Neighborhood.

“Project Safe Neighborhoods is a proven response using outreach prevention and enforcement of federal gun laws," Minkler said.

Minkler added that in 2009 the project was responsible for a 4.1 percent reduction in violent crimes, and up to 42 percent reduction in some specific locations.

Minkler said it did not appear that the gun stores violated any federal laws in these cases, and that it was a matter of false information being put on the ATF forms that allowed the guns to be sold to individuals that otherwise would have likely been unable to purchase firearms.

Boone County Sheriff Mike Nielsen reflected on the tragedy of losing an officer, but said he also sees the change this incident could have on the future of gun violence.

"I don’t think really anyone understands the impact that losing an officer has not only on the family but the department," Nielsen said. "And this may be the beginning of sending that clear message that we won’t tolerate this anymore."