WHEATFIELD, IN – In a shocking case that has gripped the small Indiana community of Wheatfield, a couple is now in custody following allegations that they murdered their two children and incinerated their remains. The parents, Steven Valle, 31, and Samantha Sebella, 25, face serious charges, including murder, child neglect resulting in death, abuse of a corpse, and failing to report a death.
The investigation launched after a disturbing confession was reportedly made to acquaintances, leading the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office to delve into the grisly accusations on September 20.
Authorities describe the deceased children as “undocumented,” suggesting they were born outside healthcare facilities and had not been registered with any formal documents like birth certificates or social security numbers.
Law enforcement located Valle and Sebella at a hotel in neighboring Newton County. Despite their insistence that they knew nothing of the alleged crimes, authorities pressed on, seizing their phones for further examination. As the investigation proceeded, an additional undocumented child was taken from their custody for safety reasons.
On September 30, armed with new evidence, officers accompanied by cadaver dogs and collaborative efforts from the Indiana State Police, Jasper County Coroner’s Office, and the current property owners conducted a thorough search at the couple’s former residence in Wheatfield. The landowner permitted the search after the couple had reportedly been evicted earlier this year.
The devastating search results revealed partial bone fragments in multiple locations on the property. These fragments were handed over to forensic specialists in Indianapolis to ascertain their origin. The examination confirmed the bones were human, escalating the investigation to another level of urgency.
With these findings, law enforcement officials re-interviewed Valle and Sebella, uncovering additional incriminating details. Based on the cumulative evidence, a judge authorized their arrest on October 6. Valle and Sebella are currently held at the Jasper County Detention Center without bail as they await further judicial proceedings.
This harrowing case highlights significant issues surrounding undocumented births and the potential vulnerabilities these children face. The community, still reeling from the revelations, anticipates answers and justice for the innocent lives lost in this tragic series of events. Authorities and forensic teams continue to investigate, ensuring no stone is left unturned in this troubling case.
