The Linton Police Department, Indiana State Police, and Greene County Sheriff’s Department responded Jan. 9 to a report of an individual, allegedly armed with a gun, causing damage to a D Street Northwest residence in Linton. 

According to a press release from the Linton Police Department, the individual – identified as Wiliam Cole Padgett, 40, of Linton – is prohibited from possessing a weapon. 

When officers made contact with Padgett, he alleged he did in fact have a weapon. Padgett’s roommates and witnesses reported seeing Padgett with a firearm. Officers attempted to deescalate the situation and calm Padgett. Eventually, per the press release, Padgett was taken into custody. 

A search warrant was issued and executed for the residence; however, according to the press release, no real firearm was located. The item Padgett was referring to as a weapon was discovered to be a toy pellet gun. However during the search, several drug related items were located. 

Padgett was transported to Greene County Jail on preliminary charges of false informing, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a syringe. Linton Police Department Officer Jerrad Pirtle was the arresting officer. He is being held without bond.

The Linton Police Department was assisted in the investigation by the Jasonville Police Department, Greene County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, Indiana Conservation Officers, Greene County Prosecutor’s Office, Linton Fire Department, and Greene County Ambulance Service. 

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to the incident should contact the Linton Police Department at 812-847-4411 or report an anonymous tip to Greene County Crime Stoppers at 812-847-5643.