Merrillville Man Sentenced to 83 Years for Ex-Girlfriend's Murder

Dennis Jelks convicted of killing Angela Carrier in 2021 after breakup

Feb. 6, 2026 at 7:07pm

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A Merrillville man, Dennis Jelks, 60, was sentenced to 83 years in prison on Friday for the 2021 murder of his ex-girlfriend, Angela Carrier, 37, of Crown Point. Jelks was convicted in December of murder and a gun enhancement for Carrier's death. Prosecutors said Jelks lured Carrier to his home under the pretense of returning her mail, then killed her and left her body in a Gary park.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for stronger protections for victims of abusive relationships. Carrier's family expressed lasting grief over her death and criticized Jelks for his lack of remorse and attempts to shift blame onto the victim.

The details

Carrier went to Jelks' home at a Merrillville Menards store on January 26, 2021 to retrieve her Social Security mail after their breakup. Jelks claimed he didn't have the mail, but convinced Carrier to leave with him. Her body was found four days later near a tree in Gary's Gleason Park. Prosecutors said Jelks used the 'ruse' of the mail to 'get Ms. Carrier alone' and execute her in the park, then pretended to help search for her. Jelks maintained his innocence, but his story was discounted by police as not matching the evidence.

  • On January 26, 2021, Carrier went to Jelks' home at a Merrillville Menards store to retrieve her Social Security mail.
  • On January 30, 2021, Carrier's body was found near a tree in Gary's Gleason Park.
  • In December 2026, a jury convicted Jelks of murder and a gun enhancement in Carrier's death.
  • On February 6, 2026, Jelks was sentenced to 83 years in prison for Carrier's murder.

The players

Dennis Jelks

A 60-year-old Merrillville man who was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Angela Carrier, in 2021.

Angela Carrier

A 37-year-old woman from Crown Point who was killed by her ex-boyfriend, Dennis Jelks, in 2021.

Michael Lambert

The defense lawyer for Dennis Jelks, who argued that prosecutors had no direct or physical evidence tying Jelks to Carrier's death.

Chris Bruno

The deputy prosecutor who argued that Jelks used a 'ruse' to get Carrier alone and execute her in Gleason Park.

Caleb Carrier

The 16-year-old son of Angela Carrier, who described his mother as his 'best friend' and someone who 'lit up' the room.

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What they’re saying

“I loved her every day of her life. She had a beautiful spirit and a strong presence.”

— Rose Jones, Angela Carrier's mother

“He took our future with her.”

— Shianne, Angela Carrier's daughter

“Remember that smile.”

— Shannon Smith, Angela Carrier's stepfather

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Dennis Jelks out on bail while he appeals the conviction.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for stronger protections and support for victims of domestic violence, as well as the lasting impact that such crimes can have on families and communities. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of addressing abusive relationships before they escalate to violence.