Former northern Indiana sheriff charged with stealing guns

WINAMAC, Ind. (AP) - A grand jury has indicted a former northern Indiana sheriff and a former deputy on charges of stealing handguns.

Former Pulaski Sheriff Michael Gayer is charged with two counts of stealing handguns, two counts of official misconduct and obstruction of justice. Gayer left office in 2014. Former Chief Deputy Ronnie Patrick is charged with four counts of stealing handguns, four counts of official misconduct and obstruction of justice.

Gayer's attorney, Brian Cook, said his client isn't guilty. Patrick's attorney, J. Michael Wood, said the charges against him "are wholly inconsistent with his history of character and service."

Each man was released Wednesday on $1,500 bond.

State police say the indictments followed an investigation in which the State Board of Accounts demanded Gayer repay $20,632 in missing firearms and ammunition.