Forensics Link Man To Church Burglary

Shirl Dion Johnson

Ripley County Jail

(Batesville, Ind.) - Batesville Police have arrested a man accused of breaking into and vandalizing a church.

 

Shirl Dion Johnson, 48, Batesville, allegedly broke into the Batesville Methodist Church on Park Avenue on June 3, 2011.

 

He stole money from the church and vandalized it, said Chief of Police Stan Holt in a release.

 

Batesville crime scene investigator Jerry Taul collected evidence at the scene, which was sent to the Indiana State Police Crime Lab. On December 7, the lab came back saying the evidence linked Johnson to the scene

 

Johnson was arrested Tuesday on charges of Burglary (Class B felony) and Theft (Class D felony). He faces six to 23 years in prison if convicted.

More from Local News

Events

Kat Von D Announces Grand Opening Date for VON D LAND

The brick-and-mortar shop is coming soon to Vevay

Portion of Nowlin Avenue to Close for Pavement Project

The project is related to an ongoing water line project in the city.

Extreme Heat Ahead: Parked Cars Can Reach 145°F—What Drivers Should Know

Proactive vehicle maintenance is your best defense against a dangerous roadside breakdown.

Rushville Native Wins Lions Pride 5K to Kickoff 2026 SIRC

Four more events will be held locally to support cross country programs

PHOTOS: Four Local Athletes Compete at 2026 USA Games

All four performed well for Team Indiana

IATCCC Announces 2026 Academic All-State Teams

Several local student athletes earned All-State honors.

On Air

Chelsie playing
Russell Dickerson - Blue Tacoma

Jason Aldean Got What I Got 9:45
Keith Urban Kiss A Girl 9:41
Kip Moore Hey Pretty Girl 9:37
Garth Brooks Two Pina Coladas 9:33