6 face federal charges for Ofc. Long death

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Six people are facing federal charges in connection with the shooting death of Terre Haute Police Officer Brent Long.

Investigators say five of those people lied to police about the whereabouts of shooter Shaun Seeley , which ultimately led to the death of Officer Long.

Heather Elkins, Charles Elkins, and Roberta Utterback are all accused of lying to police on July 11th when they said that Shaun Seeley was not in the home when he was inside and armed. Jenny Torres and Jesse Padgett are also accused of lying to police.

All five are from Terre Haute and face up to five years in federal prison.

The most significant indictment was given to Scott Griffy. He's a convicted felon who officials believe gave Seeley the gun that took Officer Long's life. They say Seeley traded Griffy meth for the handgun.

Griffy is facing up to 30 years in federal prison for his role in the crime.

During the Thursday morning press conference , several local, state and federal agencies announced these indictments in hopes that it sent a message to everyone involved in actions that led to the shooting death of Officer Long will serve time. And especially for those who buy, sell and trade illegal fire-arms.

The Terre Haute Police Department and Officer Long's widow, Danielle Long, say they're grateful to see these people face federal charges.

Danielle addressed the media for the first time since her husband's death.

"July 11th was a very hard day for me and for all of us," she said. "There are no words to describe how bad it hurts."
 

The five arrested for lying to police still face some state charges as well.

Click here to visit our Officer Brent Long webpage dedicated to Officer Long.