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Indiana assistant police chief arrested on felony charges | whas11.com
IndianaGDELTGDELT event0% biasedThu, May 21, 2026, 12:00 AM
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Indiana assistant police chief arrested on felony charges | whas11.com.WEST BADEN SPRINGS, Ind.— Two first responders in Southern Indiana are accusing West Baden assistant Police Chief Thomas Burkhardt of inappropriately touching them while they were working.A probable cause affidavit filed by the Indiana State Police in the Orange County Circuit Court indicates that in April, an investigation was launched into Burkhardt's conduct.After his arrest on Tuesday, Burkhardt now faces two counts of misconduct, one count of felony battery and one count of misdemeanor battery.According to the affidavit, on March 28, 2026, a firefighter/EMT reported being grabbed by the hips by Burkhardt while being told "I love you, oh I love you." While a detective with the Indiana State Police investigated the first claim, a state law enforcement officer filed a separate report at the French Lick Police Department, alleging that in October of 2024, Burkhardt slapped their behind while training at the West Baden Police Department.The state law enforcement officer reported that others witnessed the incident.The West Baden community says they were shocked to learn their assistant police chief, "Andy," had been arrested."It hits close to home," says Cari Kirby."I go to church with him and we see him almost every day, it's hard to believe." Kirby says she and her family have known Burkhardt for years.Kirby and her daughter Brianna both say Burkhardt has built strong relationships throughout the community over the years, including with families and children."My granddaughters love him," Kirby says."When he's nearby, they'll always run over and he'll by them candy." Kirby says the community plans on supporting Burkhardt's family at this time.Burkhardt made his first court appearance today.Court records show Burkhardt will appear in court again on June 22nd.WHAS11 reached out to the West Baden Police Department for comment but have not heard back.