Woman arrested for deception of charity organizations

SULLIVAN COUNTY—  A Linton woman allegedly obtained several items from two Sullivan County charities after using a fabricated story about a family suffering from cancer in need of Christmas gifts for young children.

However, investigation led police to believe the gifts were used for her own two children. 
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Indiana State Police arrested Laken Rochelle Lewis, 23, this morning at 11:45 a.m. after she turned herself in to ISP at the Sullivan County Jail.  She is charged with misdemeanor deception.

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Lewis

According to ISP Sgt. Joe Watts, representatives of the Christmas for Kids in Sullivan County and the Sons of Honor charities contacted the Indiana State Police at Putnamville requesting an investigation into allegations of deception. 

"The Christmas for Kids in Sullivan County and the Sons of Honor responded by providing toys, groceries, household items and quilts," Watts said, noting that soon after providing the items, members of the charity became suspicious and contacted authorities on Dec. 15.
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The case was investigated by ISP Detective First Sergeant Jason Fajt. Assisting was Sullivan County Prosecutor John Springer.

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