Posey County – Indiana State Police initiated a criminal investigation early this morning after a Wadesville man called 911 to report a woman would be found tied up in a Poseyville residence.
Preliminary investigation revealed that sometime late last night, Ryan T. Hartwell, 20, of Wadesville, went to the female’s residence in Poseyville to visit. Hartwell allegedly struck the victim in the head, tied her up and sexually assaulted her. During the altercation, Hartwell allegedly cut the victim’s arm with a knife and killed her German Shepherd. Hartwell then fled the scene in her car.
At approximately 5:00 this morning, Hartwell allegedly contacted Gibson County 911 and reported a woman could be found tied up in her Poseyville residence. When officers arrived at the residence they found the victim still tied up. She was taken to Deaconess Hospital where she was treated for non-life threatening injuries. Hartwell was arrested and taken to the Posey County Jail where he is currently being held without bond.
Arrested and Charges:
- Ryan Taylor Hartwell, 20, Wadesville, IN
- Rape, Level 1 Felony
- Criminal Confinement, Level 3 Felony
- Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Level 5 Felony
- Animal Cruelty, Level 6 Felony
- Auto Theft, Level 6 Felony
Investigating Officers: Detective Wes Kuykendall and Detective Toni Walden, Indiana State Police
FOOTNOTE: Assisting Agencies: Posey County Sheriff’s Department, Gibson County Sheriff’s Department, and Oakland City Police.
