At a Glance
- Chavez Gustin received a 55-year sentence after pleading guilty to felony murder in the July 2025 death of Roger Swedzinski, a 67-year-old resident of Fort Wayne, Ind.
- Evidence showed Gustin exchanged stolen American Eagle gold coins for a gold bar two days after the murder.
- A burglary charge was dismissed in a plea agreement that also dropped the murder charge from the original indictment.
Why it matters: The case illustrates how theft of valuable items can lead to fatal outcomes and how plea agreements can shape criminal proceedings.
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Introduction
Chavez Gustin was sentenced on Jan. 5, 2026 to 55 years in prison after pleading guilty to felony murder in the July 2025 death of Roger Swedzinski. The case involved the theft of American Eagle gold coins and a subsequent exchange for a gold bar, leading to a plea deal that saw a burglary charge dismissed.
Background of the Case
Roger Swedzinski, 67, lived in Fort Wayne, Ind., and was found fatally shot in his basement in July 2025. According to court documents, Swedzinski’s gun safe was open and valuable items were scattered throughout the scene. Among the missing items were several American Eagle gold coins that had been listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace for $4,400.
Swedzinski’s obituary highlighted his role as a loving grandfather:
> “As a grandfather, Roger embraced his role with joy and enthusiasm,” his online obituary reads. “Known for being goofy grandpa, he was always ready with a new loud toy or a fun ice cream outing. His grandchildren were his greatest treasures, and he cherished every moment spent with them.”
The Crime and Investigation
On the night of the shooting, Gustin entered Swedzinski’s home and shot the victim. Police later recovered evidence linking Gustin to the theft of the gold coins.
- Evidence: Swedzinski’s home was found with a gun safe open and scattered valuables.
- Missing items: Several American Eagle gold coins, previously listed for $4,400 on Facebook Marketplace.
- Exchange: Two days after the murder, Gustin was seen on camera exchanging the stolen coins at a pawn shop for a gold bar.
The Indiana State Police and the Allen County Sheriff’s Office coordinated the investigation, gathering video footage and forensic evidence that connected Gustin to the crime scene and the subsequent coin exchange.
Plea Deal and Sentencing
In December 2025, Gustin pleaded guilty to one count of felony murder. As part of the agreement with prosecutors:
- The murder charge was retained, but the original burglary charge was dismissed.
- Gustin’s guilty plea led to a 55-year prison sentence, effective Jan. 5, 2026.
The plea deal was reported by WANE and WPTA, which highlighted the cooperation between local law enforcement and the state prosecutor’s office.
Aftermath and Community Response
The community of Fort Wayne has expressed grief over Swedzinski’s death. Local officials noted the importance of community vigilance and the need for swift law-enforcement response in cases involving theft and violent crime.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can follow from attempting to profit from stolen property.
Key Takeaways
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sentencing Date | Jan. 5, 2026 |
| Sentence Length | 55 years |
| Victim’s Age | 67 |
| Stolen Item | American Eagle gold coins (listed for $4,400) |
| Exchange | Coins traded for a gold bar two days post-murder |
| Plea Agreement | Murder charge retained; burglary charge dismissed |
The case underscores the intersection of theft and violent crime, illustrating how a seemingly small theft can spiral into a fatal incident. It also demonstrates how plea agreements can resolve multiple charges while ensuring a substantial sentence for the defendant.
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