FAYETTE COUNTY, Ohio — In a significant development, charges have been filed in the case of Brandi Sutton, whose remains were discovered in a homeless camp behind Hobby Lobby in Chillicothe.
The investigation began on April 14, 2022, when authorities responded to a report of human remains found in a wooded area near Hobby Lobby on Bridge Street. The area, known to be a homeless encampment, became the site of an unfolding mystery. Law enforcement officials have maintained tight-lipped communication throughout the investigation, choosing not to reveal specifics surrounding the case.
The Guardian was the first to report on the identification of the deceased, 40-year-old Brandi Nicole Sutton, originally from Washington Court House. Information obtained from Sutton’s family has suggested that her untimely demise was linked to a suspected drug overdose in a Washington Court House apartment. Sources familiar with the investigation have indicated that the police were unable to definitively determine whether the overdose was administered deliberately, a situation often referred to as a “hot shot.”
Details further suggest that witnesses claimed a male individual who was with Sutton panicked upon discovering her lifeless body. This person, along with another male, allegedly transported Sutton’s body to the homeless encampment behind Hobby Lobby. There, an attempt was reportedly made to set her remains on fire. Despite efforts to gather information, the Ross County Coroner’s Office has chosen to withhold commenting on the cause of death, citing an ongoing criminal investigation.
Charged in connection with the case is Stephen Robert Laplante, who faces several charges including failure to report a death, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with evidence. Laplante has been in custody at the Fayette County Jail since May on a probation violation.
The charges bring hope for answers and closure to the family and friends of Brandi Sutton, while the investigation continues to shed light on the circumstances surrounding her tragic passing.
The Guardian will continue to bring you the latest updates on this case.
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