PREBLE COUNTY – Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on March 26, 2026, at 4622 Lee Street in Lewisburg, related to alleged identity theft.
The search and investigation revealed that the suspect, Julie Rike, has been assuming the identity of a local resident. In January of 2026, Rike purchased a 2024 Chevrolet Malibu in the victim’s name, utilizing the victim’s license and personal information in order to obtain the car and loan. Rike was found to be in possession of the victim’s driver’s license at the time of the search.
During the execution of the search warrant, investigators located suspected Fentanyl in the residence and the vehicle. Approximately 12 grams of fentanyl were seized, as was the vehicle in this case.
Julie Rike, age 41 of Lewisburg, was formally charged in Eaton Municipal Court on April 1st with Possession of a Fentanyl-Related Compound, a 2nd Degree Misdemeanor; Identity Fraud, a 3rd Degree Felony (2) Counts; Falsification in a Theft Offense, a 4th Degree Felony; Possession of a Fentanyl-Related Compound, a 5th Degree Felony; Improper Use of a Certificate of Title, an UnclassifiedMisdemeanor.
Bond was set by the court and Rike has posted bond pending her next court appearance.
