Kurtis Gunkel

WARSAW — A Warsaw man received sentencing for involvement in at least 34 burglaries and thefts that occurred last year.

Kurtis Gunkel, Warsaw, plead guilty to four charges of burglary, stemming from two separate cases.

Gunkel and Eric Warren Swick, Macy, were arrested for their involvement in the thefts and burglars that occurred in North Webster, Barbee Lake and Shoe Lake areas. Swick received his sentencing for his involvement the thefts last December.

According to police documents, during the course of the investigation, deputies were able to locate numerous items that had been stolen from local residents, which included televisions, power tools, electronics, power washers, hand tools, chain saws, air compressors, generators, battery charges, fishing equipment and other various items.

Officers estimated that the over $20,000 worth of items were stolen since the beginning of April 2016 when sheriff’s department reports were first received.

During Gunkel’s sentencing, prosecutor Katy Hampton stated many people were victimized due to Gunkel’s crimes and suffered a loss of peace of mind and safety.

Gunkel’s attorney Matthew Buehler argued Gunkel’s crimes had been a result of addiction. Buehler said he believed the thefts were, “All directly and absolutely related to addiction.”

Gunkel spoke briefly, apologizing to his wife and the victims for his actions.

Judge David Cates said while he believed Gunkel has addiction issues, he was unsure of Gunkel’s remorse. Though Gunkel has been employed for the majority of the year following his arrest for the thefts, Gunkel has yet to begin paying restitution.

“Not one dime has gone to restitution,” said Cates.

Gunkel was sentenced to 6 years at the Indiana Department of Corrections. He will receive 80 days of jail time credit for time served.

Gunkel is to have no contact with the victims of the thefts. He was ordered to pay nearly $9,000 in restitution.