Crime

ISP Investigation Leads to Felony Theft Arrest in Facebook Marketplace Scam

From the Indiana State Police – Bloomington District:

In Monroe County, an extensive investigation conducted by Indiana State Trooper Caleb Sipes has resulted in the arrest of a Monroe County woman on a felony theft charge stemming from the alleged fraudulent sale of a mini-barn through Facebook Marketplace.

In June 2026, Trooper Sipes began investigating a report involving the sale of a mini-barn that had been listed on Facebook Marketplace for $3,500. The victims reported they paid Pamela Jimenez (Deckard) the full purchase price, but after receiving the payment, she allegedly stopped communicating with them. The mini-barn was never delivered and was no longer in her possession.

Trooper Sipes conducted an extensive investigation that included numerous interviews with the victims and other involved parties, multiple follow-up investigations, and the identification and location of the company that owned and ultimately repossessed the mini-barn.

Through his investigative efforts, Trooper Sipes learned the mini-barn had been repossessed prior to the victims ever taking possession. His investigation further revealed that Jimenez had allegedly received multiple notices over several months advising her that the structure was subject to repossession. Evidence gathered during the investigation indicated Jimenez allegedly sold the mini-barn despite knowing it would be repossessed and retained the victims’ $3,500.

The thorough investigation conducted by Trooper Sipes established probable cause for felony theft charges and resulted in an arrest warrant being issued on July 13th, 2026.

With the assistance of the Bloomington Police Department, Jimenez was located and taken into custody without incident.

Arrested:
Pamela Jimenez (Deckard), 40yo, Monroe County, Indiana
Theft, Level 6 Felony

This case highlights the commitment of Indiana State Police troopers to conducting complete and thorough investigations. Trooper Sipes’ persistence, attention to detail, and diligent follow-up transformed what initially appeared to be a routine complaint into a successful felony criminal investigation, ensuring the evidence necessary to hold the suspect accountable was presented to the court.

All criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.