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

Gov. Braun Announces First Ever Statewide Tip Line for All K-12 Schools

This program is anticipated to be available for enrolled schools beginning January 2027.

Batesville Duo Represents SEI at Girls Golf State Finals

The two-day event was held at Battle Grounds Golf Club

Local Sports Report - October 1, 2026

Champions were crowned on Thursday

Switzerland County Captures 8th Straight ORVC Title

The Pacers took down previously unbeaten Shawe Memorial.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Alan Jackson - Chasing That Neon Rainbow

Lady A Champagne Night 14:49
Kip Moore Hey Pretty Girl 14:45
Rosanne Cash Blue Moon with Heartache 14:41
Drake White Livin' the Dream 14:38