By Brian M. Boyce
TERRE HAUTE — Rumors swirling about criminal proceedings against a Vigo County commissioner will be addressed by federal officials today.
Assistant U.S. attorney Brad Blackington declined to comment on specifics regarding Commissioner David W. Decker, D-1st, but said Tuesday evening that Decker “was not arrested.”
Information as to his status and situation will be released this morning, Blackington said.
Commissioner Paul Mason, D-3rd, said Tuesday night he was still unaware of the details of potential allegations Decker might face, but expected more information today.
“We’ll be [at the annex] from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. like we are every day,” Mason said.
Terre Haute Chief of Police John Plasse declined to comment on the situation, referring all questions to Blackington.
Other members of local law enforcement also declined to comment as the situation is a federal case and outside their jurisdiction.
Attempts to reach Decker on his home phone were met with a recorded message stating the number had been disconnected or changed. A message left on his cell phone was not returned.
Messages left for Commissioner Judith Anderson, D-2nd, were not returned Tuesday night.
Decker, president of the Vigo County Board of Commissioners, was meeting with other commissioners Tuesday at the Vigo County Annex when he suddenly left between 4 and 4:10 p.m. He reportedly sent a text message shortly thereafter, stating he had to leave.
Decker has been a commissioner since 2007, and president since January 2008. He was a county councilman from 2001 to 2004.
Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.
