11/30/2023–On November 29th, Celina Police arrested Shawn Allen Steinke (49) of Celina on the charges of menacing by stalking, a felony of the 4th degree. Celina Police have been investigating allegations that Steinke had been stalking and watching children at bus stops in Celina.

Menacing by stalking...A fourth degree felony is punishable by up to $5,000.00 in fines, 18 months imprisonment, or both.

The investigation came to a conclusion after weeks of investigating and conducting surveillance. Steinke was observed by officers watching and talking to children on the 29th in his gray 2013 Dodge Challenger. He was arrested and is being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.

Steinke does have a prior arrest and conviction in Auglaize County for child enticement in 2004. He was given probation then. He is currently being held in jail without bond. The Mercer Co. Prosecutor Erin Minor is reviewing the case for formal charges.

The Celina Police Department would like to thank Celina City Schools staff, the parents, St Marys PD, Coldwater PD and the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for their assistance in this investigation. We ask that anyone with further information call the Celina Police Department and speak with Patrolman Poppe. 419-586-2345