Hundreds 'jailed' for good cause

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Hundreds of Lafayette residents were taken from their jobs and "jailed" today, to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) as part of the MDA Lock-Up.

The jailbirds, who'd been warned in advance, were issued warrants and taken to area restaurant Texas Roadhouse, where "Willie's Corner" had been turned into a giant jail cell. In order to be released, prisoners had to make phone calls and raise money to get "bailed out." All the money gathered for their bail is being donated to MDA.

Despite police presence, the inmates seemed to be enjoying themselves. Of course, access to bottomless cups of coffee and tasty doughnuts probably helped ensure a happy prison populace.

Prisoner Steve Dunker knew about his "sentence" months in advance. He said he made a list of people to call and e-mail in hopes of making his $1,600 bail. Dunker said he'd had a very positive response, with most of the people he called donating generously.

Dunker said one of his calls was returned with a message that hit close to heart for supporters of the event. It came from a man Dunker does business with who has had a tragic year.

"Sorry to say, he lost his 16-year-old son to this disease, just this year... and it was quite touching... quite touching," said Dunker. The man said he appreciated the call and would have no problem donating.

Dunker said such tragedies are what make him so willing to raise money to find a cure.

"Hopefully we do some good with this," said Dunker.

Program Coordinator Kelle Alcorn said that this year's goal is $75,000. Regardless of of how much is raised, all the money will stay in the area, helping local people.