State police at Philipsburg

• State police responded to an accident Tuesday on Interstate 99 in Worth Township. Further, Julie L. Mesmer of West Decatur was attempting to merge into traffic on I-99 north. However, she swerved her vehicle and it impacted a concrete barrier on the right side of the roadway. As a result, her vehicle rotated counterclockwise across three lanes of traffic and impacted a concrete barrier on the left side of the roadway. Mesmer, according to state police, suffered from head and neck pain and one passenger from a sore knee and shoulder; a second passenger had a laceration to their forehead. All three were transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center for medical evaluations.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred Thursday in Bell Township. During the incident, someone allegedly contacted the victim via text messages and communicated lewd and vulgar things to her. State police are continuing their investigation into the incident.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a residential burglar alarm in the Mount Zion area. Upon arrival police found everything to be OK.
• Police were requested to assist with a medical emergency at a Mount Joy Road residence. However, police were cancelled while en route to the scene.

Curwensville Borough

• Police had a Harley Davidson key turned in at the station. The owner can contact Curwensville Borough police to claim the key.
• Police received a report about an alleged tobacco violation at the Curwensville School. Police would like to remind parents to inform their children that tobacco is prohibited on school property. Students who are found in possession of tobacco will be issued a citation.
• Police located a loose dog on Monday evening.
• Police received a report about a minor vehicle accident Tuesday evening at the intersection of Naulton Road and West Street. No injuries were reported, police said.
• Police received a report about a wallet that was allegedly stolen from a Curwensville Commons apartment on Tuesday.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred in the 600 block of Filbert Street. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged a window of a residence, which required replacement.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person in the area of School Street on Wednesday morning. However, they were gone upon police arrival in the area.
• Police would like to warn residents about calls from people claiming to be with the IRS and requesting payments. The calls, according to police, are scams.
• Police received a report about a vehicle being struck while it was parked in the 500 block of State Street. The suspect vehicle caused damage and then fled the scene, police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact Curwensville Borough police.
• Police received a noise complaint that occurred on Filbert Street. It was due to a testing process and handled by police at the scene.

Sandy Township

• On Wednesday a Tozier Avenue resident reported that a Nissan X Terra was stuck on the corner of their property near the railroad tracks and no one was around the vehicle. Police are continuing their investigation.
• Police received a report about a woman who was laying on the railroad tracks near South Brady Street and Breck Road on Wednesday. However, officers were unable to locate the woman.
• A 31-year-old Treasure Lake resident alleged that someone damaged the door to her house while she was at work on Wednesday. It did not appear that anyone had gained entry to the residence, police said.
• On Thursday a Holiday Lane resident alleged being the victim of an ongoing scam through Shaw Finance Inc., which wanted him to claim a $3,950 they alleged he had won. He recognized this as a scam and did not release any personal information, police said.
• On Thursday an 81-year-old Mountain Run Road woman alleged receiving a phone call stating she had won 12 million dollars and to send money through Western Union to claim the prize. She recognized this as a scam and did not follow through with the request, police said.
• A Pittsburgh woman reported that while her husband was visiting at Cayman Landing, their white Chihuahua with brown spots ran off on Thursday.
• On Thursday a 68-year-old Pacific Avenue woman reported receiving an $8,897 check and a letter awarding her $550,000. She took the check to the bank, which confirmed it was fraudulent, police said.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at a Treasure Lake residence on Thursday.
• Police received reports for two false alarms at CNB Bank on Thursday.

Fugitive of the Week: Shannon Brink (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. has announced the capture of a wanted fugitive.

Shaw identified the fugitive as Shannon Brink, 39, of Westover Road, Westover. Brink was added to the Clearfield County Fugitive of the Week list Oct. 26.

On July 17, Deputy George DeHaven of the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office filed a criminal complaint against Brink. He charged Brink with hindering apprehension/providing false information to law enforcement, M2.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on July 15, deputies from the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office responded to a local residence in an attempt to serve a bench warrant on a known individual.

Upon arrival at the residence, deputies allegedly knocked on the door for several minutes until a male, later identified as Brink, appeared at the window. Brink allegedly related that the other individual was not present.

When advised that giving false information to hinder apprehension could result in charges, Brink allegedly continued to deny that the other individual was inside. However, the other individual was allegedly observed inside the residence and was taken into custody. The other individual allegedly related to deputies that Brink was aware she was there.

A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Aug. 26, at which time all charges were held to court. On Oct. 7, Brink failed to appear at Arraignment Court, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Shaw stated that on Friday Brink was taken into custody without incident at a local residence by deputies from the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office. Brink is currently lodged in the Clearfield County Jail.

Shaw thanked the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance with this case.

Anyone with knowledge of a fugitive’s location is asked to call Clearfield County Crime Stoppers at 800-376-4700. All calls to Crime Stoppers are confidential.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted by visiting the Clearfield County District Attorney Web site at “www.ClearfieldDA.org” and selecting “Report A Crime.”

CLEARFIELD – A man who was scheduled to stand trial on firearms and drug charges pleaded guilty Friday morning in Clearfield County Court.

Harry Eugene Dunlap, 63, of Mahaffey pleaded guilty to intentional possession of a controlled substance. He was sentenced by Clearfield County President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to five months to one year less one day in jail.

Dunlap had been charged with possession of firearm with manufacturer number altered, etc., possession of firearm prohibited and two counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Jan. 27 state parole officers were conducting a routine search for alleged violations at Dunlap’s residence. During the search, parole officers found suspected drug paraphernalia and other controlled substances in a powder form.

A state parole officer also found a pistol in a cabinet above the refrigerator in the kitchen. It was loaded with a round in the chamber and six rounds in the magazine, which was inserted into the pistol. The serial number on the pistol was obliterated and appeared to have been drilled out, the affidavit states.

After state parole officers found the items, state police at Clearfield responded to the scene. A search of Dunlap’s residence and property turned up several Vicodin pills and two, small packets of suspected methamphetamine.

Dunlap was arrested for corrupt organizations on Oct. 24, 1989. He was found guilty and sentenced to nine to 20 years in a state correctional facility, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

HOUTZDALE – State police at Clearfield are continuing their investigation into an alleged indecent assault incident that occurred around Sept. 14 at the State Correctional Institution at Houtzdale.

According to state police, an inmate alleged that he was sexually assaulted by another inmate. During the incident, the victim said the accused allegedly grabbed his private area and pulled his pants down.

The victim also said that the accused allegedly attempted to perform a sex act on him.

KARTHAUS – At approximately 12:50 p.m. Sunday, two inmates, each serving flat 24-month state intermediate punishment sentences, escaped from the Quehanna Boot Camp, located in Karthaus.

The inmates were allegedly observed getting into a black vehicle. Individuals with information on the whereabouts of these two escapees should contact Pennsylvania State Police immediately.

Individuals are advised not to approach the inmates. The escapees are:

Nicholas Guido, a 30-year-old white male, who has a light complexion and brown hair and eyes.  He is 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighs 185 pounds.  He was sentenced in Allegheny County for burglary with no person present.

Nicholas Guido (Provided photo)

Trent Robert Maffei, a 20-year-old white male, who has a light complexion, medium build and brown hair and eyes.  He is 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs 160 pounds.  He was sentenced in Juniata County for possession with intent to deliver.

Trent Robert Maffei (Provided photo)

Officials have sounded the escape siren and have sent a message via AlertPA to registered individuals. The facility is currently locked down while officials conduct an investigation.

Again, anyone with information on the whereabouts of these individuals should not approach them but should contact Pennsylvania State Police.

Blondena Thompson (Provided photo)

KARTHAUS – State police at Clearfield have initiated an investigation into the escape of two inmates from the Quehanna Boot Camp in Karthaus that occurred at 12:40 p.m. Sunday.

According to state police, the inmates were allegedly out in the yard when they were observed getting into a black Sedan. The inmates were Trent Robert Maffei, 20, and Nicholas Guildo, 30.

State police say the inmates may be with Blondena Thompson and or Justin Carr. State police also believe they may be in the Harrisburg area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.

State police at Clearfield

• On Oct. 1 an inmate at the State Correctional Institution at Houtzdale was allegedly found with a weapon made from sharpened wood. It was allegedly hidden in the inmate’s body cavity. Additionally, a weapon made from melted plastic and sharpened to a point was allegedly found under the same inmate’s bunk in his cell. State police are continuing their investigation into the incident.
• State police are investigating an alleged indecent assault incident that occurred Sept. 21 at the SCI Houtzdale. Further, an inmate alleged that he was sexually assaulted by another inmate while in line at the ice and water machines.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred Saturday on Old Route 322 in Decatur Township. During the incident, someone allegedly shot the victim’s house with orange paint pellets and then fled the area. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an accident that occurred Thursday on Interstate 80 eastbound in Pine Creek Township. Further, Cheryl D. Bloom of DuBois was traveling on I-80 in the right-hand lane when a deer entered from the north side of the roadway. It entered into the path of her vehicle, which struck it. No injuries were reported by Bloom or her passengers, state police said.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police at Philipsburg are continuing their investigation into an alleged indecent assault incident that occurred between April 28 and June 29 at a residence in Port Matilda Borough. State police were contacted by Centre County Children & Youth Services regarding an alleged inappropriate touching incident between two, juvenile siblings.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of simple assault, recklessly endangering and harassment that occurred Friday at the Philipsburg-Osceola High School football complex. During the football game, the victim was there with her boyfriend and others. She was standing and talking with friends when the suspect approached her and started to have a conversation with her. The suspect allegedly grabbed her several times and pushed her down onto the ground; he also allegedly picked her up once and dropped her to the ground. Medical personnel responded to the scene and the victim was taken to the Mount Nittany Medical Center for treatment. The victim, according to state police, was treated and released from the hospital.
• State police allegedly found a known juvenile in possession of a bicycle that was allegedly stolen sometime Oct. 13-20 on East Presqueisle Street in Philipsburg Borough.
• On Thursday a known person allegedly turned over drugs to state police. The drugs, according to state police, have been sent for lab analysis, and the incident remains under investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an alleged simple assault that occurred Oct. 16 in the parking lot near the Philipsburg-Osceola football field. During the incident, a known juvenile allegedly punched another in the face, causing a broken nose.

State police at Punxsutawney

• On Oct. 18 state police at Punxsutawney investigated the alleged theft of a generator that occurred at a Patchin Highway address in Burnside Township. The actor, a 19-year-old Cherry Tree man, was charged through the district court, state police said.
• On Friday state police stopped a 20-year-old Punxsutawney man for an alleged traffic violation on Route 310 near Bollinger Road in Winslow Township. During the stop, state police allegedly determined he was driving under the influence of a controlled substance. He was also allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges are currently pending at this time, state police said.

State police at Ridgway

• State police responded to an alleged DUI that occurred Sunday on Glen Hazel Road in Jones Township. Further, a 25-year-old Wilcox man allegedly committed traffic violations. Upon making contact with him, state police allegedly learned he was under the influence of alcohol. He was subsequently taken to Penn Highlands Elk for a legal blood draw. Charges are currently pending against the man at this time, state police said.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime between Oct. 25 and Saturday along Sauer Road in Jones Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged two outdoor lights, which were valued at $80. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Ridgway at 814-776-6136.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred Sunday in the area of West Main Street in Ridgway Township. During the incident, someone allegedly caused damage to the driver’s side mirror on the victim’s vehicle and then left the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Ridgway at 814-776-6136.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to an alleged domestic disturbance on South Fourth Street between a male and female on Friday.  Further, police were able to get both to calm down, and the male was cited for his actions.
• On Friday police received information that a known female allegedly provided a local business a bad check.
• On Friday police received a parking complaint that occurred on South Fourth Street, where a vehicle was parked less than 15 feet from the corner, causing a hazard. Police issued a parking ticket for the violation.
• Police responded to a minor vehicle accident Friday at the CVS Pharmacy intersection. Police arrived and determined that both parties were exchanging information and did not need police assistance.
• Police received information Friday that a male had warrants out for his arrest and was at a residence on Merrill Street. Police were able to locate the male at the residence, and he was taken into custody.  The male, according to police, was taken to the Clearfield County Jail and held on warrants through the Clearfield Sheriff’s Department.
• On Friday police received a report that kids were allegedly throwing rocks and sticks at buildings in East End.

• While on patrol Saturday, police allegedly observed a male attack another male.  The males were separated and the aggressor was arrested for his actions, police said.
• On Saturday police received a check the welfare call, while a father was unable to get a hold of his daughter, and he was concerned for her well-being.  Contact was made and the female was found to be OK, police said.
• On Saturday police had a set of keys turned into them that were found on West Side. Later the owner contacted the police to retrieve them.
• On Saturday police received a report about the alleged theft of a license plate from Cemetery Road.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment by communications. Both parties were advised not to have any more communications with each other or both could be arrested, police said.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run accident Saturday on Nichols Street. A legally parked vehicle was struck and had damage to the rear driver’s side, police said.
• Lawrence Township police were assisted with a traffic stop Saturday.
• Police responded to West Side for a report about individuals who were allegedly throwing corn at houses Saturday.
• Police allegedly stopped a vehicle for a traffic offense and found that the operator was driving under the influence on Saturday.  The driver was arrested for the offense, police said.

• Police stopped a vehicle for not stopping at a steady red light on Sunday. The driver of the vehicle was allegedly found to be intoxicated and arrested for the suspicion of driving under the influence, police said.
• On Sunday police responded to the area of Capricorn Drive to check the welfare of a male and female. Police found that they were walking home and were OK.
• Police responded to a suspicious male report Sunday on Daisy Street. He was allegedly outside of a residence and attempting to get inside.  The male was found to be intoxicated and not known to the complainant; he was arrested for public drunkenness, police said.
• On Sunday police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment by communications, where an unknown actor was allegedly calling another and claiming to be outside of their residence. Police checked the area but didn’t find anyone around.
• Police responded to a burning complaint Sunday on East Pine Street. A resident, according to police, was found to be burning plastic and other garbage within eight feet of her residence. The fire department was dispatched to extinguish the fire, police said.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Third and East Market streets on Sunday. Police were assisted by emergency personnel and the Clearfield Fire Department.  Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene, police said.
• Police responded to an alleged domestic disturbance on East Pine Street between a male and female on Sunday.  Police subsequently arrested the male for his conduct.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred at a business and residence. Police contacted the actor and advised him to cease his actions or he would face charges.
• Police received a burning complaint that occurred in the Hyde area. Upon arrival police found a resident was only burning wood. Police asked him to put smaller amounts of wood on the fire to limit the amount of smoke.
• Police responded to a single-vehicle accident on Route 879 westbound. Upon arrival to the scene, police determined a Clearfield woman was traveling when her vehicle struck a deer. No injuries were reported as a result, and her vehicle was towed privately, police said.
• Police received a report about a single-vehicle accident on Route 879. No injuries were reported as a result; however, DUI-related charges are pending at this time, police said.
• Police responded to a noise complaint on Clark Street that was handled at the scene.
• Police received a report about a wallet that was lost/stolen at the Clearfield Mall.
• Police provided an escort for a toy drive from the Ollie’s Bargain Outlet to the Salvation Army.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred at Lawrence Park Village.
• Police received a report about insulation on Coal Hill Road. It was cleaned up, police said.
• Police received a report about an alarm in the area of Evergreen Road.
• Clearfield Borough police were assisted with an incident on Daisy Street.
• While on patrol, police allegedly located a suspicious vehicle in the Lawrence Township Rec Park. Police advised a male and female that the park closed at dark, and they left without incident.
• Police received a report about an activated alarm on Plaza Drive.
• Police received a report about an activated alarm at the Armory on Coal Hill Road.
• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle and persons in the area of Flegal Road.
• Police were requested to conduct a welfare check in the area of Calvary Road.
• Police received a report about a civil property dispute.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft that occurred on South Second Street.

Sandy Township

• Police received a call about a man who was allegedly passed out in a vehicle Friday at the DuBois Mall. Upon arrival of officers, emergency personnel were already at the scene and allegedly found a syringe and spoon on the man’s lap. After being cleared by emergency personnel, the 35-year-old Sykesville man was taken into custody and released to State Parole due to a violation. Charges are currently pending at this time, police said.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at CNB Bank on Friday.
• On Friday a Mocking Bird Lane man alleged that a package containing his daughter’s prescription, which was delivered by UPS, was taken from his front porch.
• An Oklahoma Salem Road resident found a pit bull running loose near her home Friday. Officers eventually located the dog’s owner.
• Police received a report about two males who were allegedly walking up and down Forest Avenue on Saturday and also wandering into people’s yards. However, the males were gone upon police arrival.
• A 36-year-old Hanes Drive woman reported that while she was trick-or-treating, a 15-year-old Hanes Drive girl yelled something at her, which she didn’t hear but thought was rude. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Saturday a 59-year-old White Pine resident alleged someone damaged ornamental lighting in her yard.
• A vehicle driven by a 40-year-old South Avenue woman hit a deer on Larkeytown Road Sunday. No injuries and moderate damage were reported, police said.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at Sears on Sunday.

HARRISBURG – The two state intermediate punishment (SIP) inmates who escaped from the Quehanna Boot Camp have been apprehended in the Harrisburg area and are now in custody, states a post on the state Department of Corrections’ Facebook page.

Nicholas Guido, 30, and Trent Robert Maffei, 20, escaped from the boot camp at 12:50 p.m. Sunday. They were allegedly observed getting into a black vehicle and later believed to be in the Harrisburg area, according to previously published GANT reports.

Both inmates were serving 24-month SIP sentences at the boot camp. Guido was sentenced in Allegheny County for burglary with no person present and Maffei in Juniata County for possession with intent to deliver.

Guido and Maffei were apprehended by members of the Pennsylvania State Police Fugitive Task Force and Newport-based state police. No further information is available at this time.

Fugitive of the Week: Austin Patterson (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – Clearfield County’s Fugitive of the Week for the week of Nov. 2 has been identified as Austin Patterson, 20, of Fourth Street, Clearfield. Patterson is wanted for failure to appear at a preliminary hearing that was held Oct. 28.

On Sept. 24 Patrolman Elliott Neeper of the Lawrence Township Police Department filed a criminal complaint against Patterson. He charged Patterson with burglary, F2; criminal trespass, F2; theft by unlawful taking, F3; receiving stolen property, F3; and criminal mischief, M3.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Sept. 16 Neeper received a report about suspicious items, which were abandoned outside of a local business. Upon arrival Neeper allegedly observed various electronics and DJ equipment located outside of the business along with a two-wheeled hand cart.

Officers traveled to a local storage unit facility, where they allegedly observed that the padlock for one of the units had been removed from it. Officers then contacted the property manager who was able to retrieve the surveillance video.

Officers allegedly observed two males enter the property and go directly to the storage unit. The two males were allegedly observed cutting the padlock of the storage unit and then removing the various items.

The suspects transferred the items to a vehicle but left behind the two-wheeled hand cart and a pair of recently-purchased bolt cutters. Officers were then able to obtain surveillance video of three males recently purchasing the bolt cutters from a local business.

According to the affidavit, one of the individuals was identified as Patterson. As a result, officers were able to further identify the suspect vehicle as belonging to Patterson. When later confronted by officers, Patterson allegedly admitted to involvement in the burglary.

A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Oct. 28, at which time Patterson failed to appear, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Patterson is described as a Caucasian male who stands 6 feet tall. He has blonde hair and green eyes.

Anyone with knowledge of Patterson’s location is asked to call Clearfield County Crime Stoppers at 800-376-4700. All calls to Crime Stoppers are confidential.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted by visiting the Clearfield County District Attorney Web site at “www.ClearfieldDA.org” and selecting “Report A Crime.”

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of domestic harassment that occurred Oct. 29 in the 700 block of East Spruce Street in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, a male and female were allegedly involved in a domestic incident that resulted in him striking her. State police are continuing their investigation into the incident at this time.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to the hospital for a patient who was discharged and who refused to leave. Police made contact with the female who agreed to leave without any issues.
• Lawrence Township police were assisted with an incident at the hospital.
• Police responded to East Eighth Street to check the welfare of a female who had allegedly threatened to harm herself. Police located the female who was in need of medical attention; she was transported to the hospital
• Police arrested two individuals for driving under the influence over the weekend after they were allegedly stopped for traffic violations and determined to be consuming alcohol.
• Police stopped a vehicle and determined the male to have several outstanding warrants. He was taken into custody and transported to the police station where the warrants were taken care of.
• Police were advised about a report of harassment, where a female was allegedly being followed by a male.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment. The victim told police she was receiving several threatening phone calls from several, different numbers.  Police are investigating the incident.
• Police responded to Nichols Street due to a report about a smell of diesel fuel. The fire department arrived at the scene and handled the situation.
• Police encountered a physical altercation that allegedly occurred between two males along South Third Street.
• Police were called to Textile Street to check the welfare of an individual. The individual was found to be OK, police said.
• Police handled several vehicle accidents over the weekend. No major injuries were reported in the accidents, police said.
• Police assisted motorists who had locked their keys in their vehicle. Police were able to gain entry into the vehicles.
• Police arrested a male for an alleged assault after responding to a physical domestic dispute. The male was transported to the Clearfield County Jail, police said.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about the alleged theft of medication from a township resident. Police have a suspect and the investigation is ongoing at this time.
• While on patrol, police allegedly observed a male for whom the department had an active warrant for unpaid fines. As a result, police took the male into custody and before the magistrate. He was then placed in the Clearfield County Jail.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct on Arrowhead Way.
• Police received a report about a possible burglary on Mount Joy Road. Police are continuing their investigation into the incident at this time.
• Police received a call about a psychological emergency.

Mark Charles Hackett (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man accused of having a methamphetamine lab in his apartment pleaded guilty Tuesday during plea and sentencing court.

Mark Charles Hackett, 54, currently an inmate of state prison, pleaded guilty before President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to criminal attempt/manufacture of a controlled substance, operating a methamphetamine lab and deposits, stores or disposes of chemical waste.

He was sentenced to a total of one to 10 years in state prison. This sentence will run consecutive to any sentence he receives from a state parole revocation.

In October of 2014, the other apartments in Hackett’s building were evacuated by members of the Clearfield Borough police, the Lawrence Township police, the Clearfield Fire Department, Clearfield Emergency Medical Services and the Clearfield County Emergency Management Agency.

Seven nearby residences were also evacuated while police investigated the scene due to the dangers of manufacturing the drug, according to previously published reports.

According to testimony at the preliminary hearing, Keith Summerson, a state parole agent, and an agent with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Narcotics, Investigation and Drug Control, received information from a confidential informant who said Hackett was cooking methamphetamine at his home. He contacted his supervisor and received permission to search Hackett’s residence for evidence of a violation.

Summerson went with Officer Jacob Rhymestine of the Clearfield Borough police to Hackett’s residence. He testified that a female answered the door while Hackett was on the couch. Hackett was handcuffed and placed in the kitchen. Rhymestine watched him while Summerson searched the apartment. The female told him there was a backpack hidden in the kitchen ceiling tiles.

When he checked the ceiling Summerson pushed the tiles and could see a black bag. Summerson asked another agent, Lon Miller, who had arrived on scene to help him. Miller got up on a table, reached up and pulled down the bag. Inside it they found a bottle with battery shavings, a bottle with a white substance, a Coleman fuel canister and baggies with white pellets.

Because these items are precursors for cooking methamphetamines, the search was stopped. Summerson asked Rhymestine to get a search warrant.

Rhymestine verified much of Summerson’s story during his testimony. However, he was unable to confirm which of the agents actually pulled the bag from the ceiling. Rhymestine explained that his focus was on watching Hackett and not the search.

At Summerson’s request, Rhymestine said he went back to the police station to speak to officials about getting a search warrant for the apartment. When he returned to the building other officers had secured and evacuated it. Rhymestine provided security outside for the rest of the evening.

An agent with the AG’s Bureau of Narcotics, Investigation and Drug Control was called in to assist with the investigation. The agent testified that he interviewed Hackett, who agreed to speak with him after he was read his rights. Hackett told him he tried to manufacture methamphetamine in a soda bottle but it failed. Hackett agreed to a search and signed a consent to search form.

The agent said there were concerns with securing the apartment because of the volatile chemicals involved in the making of methamphetamine. The state police were notified and a response team sent to the area.

Chemists dressed in suits with respirators went into the residence to check for chemicals. Everything they found was taken to a crime lab in Harrisburg, the agent said.

A report from the lab concluded that several materials were found that are used to manufacture methamphetamines. Some of the residue indicated an effort to make methamphetamine had been successful.

The only defense witness was the informant. The CI testified that they had charges pending against them when they went to the police with information about Hackett’s intentions to make methamphetamine.

“I knew there was illegal activity happening (at Hackett’s apartment),” the CI said, adding that they knew this was “not right.”

Hackett had asked the informant to buy cold medicine that can only be purchased with an identity card at a pharmacy counter. This is used in the making of methamphetamine.

Attorney Gary Knaresboro, who was representing Hackett, asked the CI if they took photos of the ingredients for methamphetamine. The CI said yes and these photos were given to police.

The informant said a female showed them items in a bag in a closet and helped them take the pictures. At that time the items were in a garbage bag in a suitcase. Later these things were put in the backpack and hidden in the ceiling tiles.

During cross examination, District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. asked what else the CI saw at the apartment. The informant said they saw a soda bottle that was burned. The informant said the female told them it had blown up.

Hackett’s previous drug charges include possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver in two cases. He pleaded guilty in July of 2012 and was sentenced to serve nine months to five years in state prison. In July of 2005, he pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and was sentenced to 60 days in jail and two years probation.

Manuj Glen McCoon (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A former New York man pleaded guilty Tuesday for his involvement in a local cocaine distribution business.

Manuj Glen McCoon, 45, pleaded guilty to corrupt organizations and was sentenced by President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to six months less one day to one year less one day in jail and one year probation. He was fined $200 plus costs.

According to testimony before a grand jury, McCoon was selling cocaine in Clearfield for approximately four months until he was arrested after a traffic stop in Union County in November of 2013. The vehicle contained 81 small bags of cocaine, three cell phones and approximately $2,000. McCoon was working with Luther L. Ware Jr., who had recruited him to travel to Clearfield to deliver and sell cocaine.

Prior to sentencing, it was noted by Senior Deputy Attorney General David Gorman that McCoon had cooperated with the investigation and testified both before a Grand Jury and at Ware’s trial. He has already served almost two years in jail beginning with his original arrest in 2013. His credit toward his sentence will begin July 21.

McCoon’s attorney, Ronald Collins explained the unique structure of the plea was due to McCoon’s issues with immigration.

McCoon testified during Ware’s trial that he met Ware through a mutual friend in the Bronx in April of 2013. Ware offered him a job selling drugs for him in Clearfield.

“I needed the money,” McCoon said because he was out of work. At first he turned the offer down but in August of 2013 he agreed to work with Ware.

He explained Ware needed someone to oversee his drug business in Clearfield because he was constantly losing money due to people either stealing the money or drugs. On that trip, he said they had about $5,000 in crack cocaine packaged in half gram bags. Ware told him he had been doing this for two or three years.

McCoon said at first he stayed with people in the area. Other times he stayed at various hotels with the bill being paid by Ware. When he ran out of drugs, he would call Ware and he would bring more.

The longest McCoon said he stayed in Clearfield was three or four weeks in September/October of 2013. In November he stayed at a hotel in DuBois because he was afraid he was going to be arrested.

It was during one of his trips back to New York in November of 2013 that McCoon’s vehicle was spotted by Pennsylvania State Troopers who were alerted he was wanted for questioning in a separate case. He was taken into custody. Because the offense was alleged to have happened in his van, it was searched after a warrant was obtained. Police found 11.47 grams of crack cocaine packaged in little bags inside a sock in a duffle bag in the van.

After a trial in June, Ware was found guilty of two counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal use of communication facility, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, criminal conspiracy and delivery of a controlled substance in one case and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal conspiracy/delivery of a controlled substance, corrupt organizations, criminal conspiracy/corrupt organizations, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, and criminal use of communication facility in a second case. In August, Ammerman sentenced Ware to a total of 11 to 25 years in state prison.

Several other local people involved in his drug distribution network were among those arrested in the recent “Operation Leaf Rake” drug bust.

Also involved in this cocaine trafficking ring was Shaking Devine Saunders, 37, 8418 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Far Rockaway, NY, Edward Allen, 39, 431 Beach St., Far Rockaway, NY, David Batista, 31, 2288 Mott Ave., Queens, NY, and Lashanda Lashell Mount, 29, 25 Pyramid Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY. They were found to be in possession of 38.62 grams of crack cocaine after a traffic stop in February of 2014.

In November of 2014, both Saunders and Allen pleaded guilty to drug charges and were each sentenced to serve 27 months to seven years in state prison. In April Mount pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy/possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. She was sentenced to nine months to 16 months in jail. In July Batista pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 27 months to seven years in state prison.

State police at Clearfield

• State police investigated an alleged incident of selling tobacco to a minor that occurred sometime Monday or Tuesday at a convenience store in Ferguson Township. During the incident, a Curwensville man allegedly entered the store and purchased tobacco products, which he supplied to a minor. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800. Charges will be filed through the district court, state police said.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred Monday along Teutonic Avenue in Decatur Township. During the incident, two people allegedly engaged in an argument and threatened to assault each other. Both were charged for harassment through the district court, state police said.
• State police received a report about an accident Tuesday on Sarah Street in Decatur Township. Further, Ralph V. Basciano of Houtzdale was traveling south when his vehicle drifted off of the right-hand side of the roadway and impacted an embankment. Basciano sustained moderate injuries and was transported to the Mount Nittany Medical Center; he was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the accident. The Basciano vehicle sustained disabling damage. State police were assisted at the scene by Sandy Ridge Emergency Medical Services, the Osceola Mills Fire Company and towing services.
• State police received a report about an accident Wednesday on Interstate 80 westbound in Bradford Township. A Volvo truck operated by Anthony Baker of Palmyra, Ohio was traveling on I-80 when he lost control. His truck subsequently traveled onto the south berm and overturned onto its driver’s side. Baker was trapped inside the truck and rescued by fire personnel, state police said. Baker was transported to the Altoona Hospital for treatment. State police were assisted at the scene by the Bigler-Jackson-Woodland and Clearfield fire departments.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an alleged burglary that occurred between Saturday and Tuesday on Hemlock Drive in Huston Township. During the incident, someone allegedly forcibly entered the victim’s residence and removed several items before fleeing the scene. State police are continuing their investigation at this time, and anyone with information is asked to contact 814-371-4652.
• State police received a report about the alleged unlawful use of a computer that occurred Aug. 30 in Washington Township. During the incident, a Brockway man allegedly hacked into the victim’s social media accounts and used their identity. The man also allegedly posted vulgarities and pictures of the victim to damage their reputation. Charges of sexual abuse of children, unlawful use of a computer, computer trespass and identity theft have been filed through the district court, state police said.
• State police received a report about a deer-versus-car accident Wednesday at the Penfield Minit Mart in Huston Township. After the crash, the operator who is from Buffalo, NY drove the vehicle approximately one mile to the Penfield Minit Mart. Upon investigation of the accident, state police allegedly detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle. A search of the vehicle allegedly turned up a small amount of marijuana, state police said. Charges will be filed through the district court.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred Monday on State Street in Rush Township. During the incident, an Osceola Mills teen allegedly engaged in an altercation with a male and female. Charges were filed through the district court, state police said.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a call from a female who advised she was a victim of an alleged The victim told police that she supplied personal information to the caller who advised she was a winner of a contest.  The victim then had money removed from her account, police said.  Police advise residents not to supply personal information to individuals who are not known to them.
• Police are investigating an alleged theft incident in which approximately $2,000 was removed from a female’s purse.
• Police unlocked a vehicle for a motorist who had locked their keys inside of it.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that has occurred between two individuals. The report was referred to the appropriate agency, police said.
• Police responded to East Sixth Street for a door that was found to be open to a residence. Police checked the residence and found everything to be OK.
• Police responded to East Sixth Street for a barking dog complaint. Police attempted to make contact with the owner, but nobody was home.
• Police responded to an alleged altercation along South Third Street. Police arrived and determined that a male had been physically assaulted by another male. The actor, according to police, allegedly fled the scene, and the victim was flown to a trauma center for the injuries he sustained during the altercation.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct at a residence along Clark Hill Road. Further, police resolved the incident without any criminal charges.
• Police are investigating an alleged incident of burglary and theft that occurred at a local motel. Further, someone allegedly took an undetermined amount of cash, police said.
• Police received a report about an alleged fight that occurred at the Clearfield Area Junior-Senior High School. Police are continuing their investigation of the incident.
• Clearfield Borough police were assisted with an incident on South Third Street.
• Police received a report about an alleged verbal domestic dispute on Park Avenue Extension. During the incident, a male actor allegedly fled on foot prior to police arrival. He was later allegedly observed hiding in the area and taken into custody after a short foot pursuit. Charges were filed against the male through the district court, and he was also found to have active warrants for his arrest through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office, State Parole and State College police. Police subsequently housed the male at the Clearfield County Jail.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment Monday. The complainant told police that a known female had harassed her at her place of business and at the bus stop. Police contacted the female and advised her to have no further contact with the complainant.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of trespassing Monday on Quarry Avenue. A landlord told police that a known male was given notice recently to stay off of the property. However, police didn’t locate the male upon arrival.
• Police received a report about people who were allegedly lighting fires in garbage cans in the City Park on Monday. Upon arrival police allegedly located fires burning inside a garbage can and fire pit inside the pavilion nearest to the basketball court. Another garbage can, police said, was allegedly loaded with leaves. Police said the fires were extinguished and remain under investigation at this time.
• Police were dispatched to a mental health issue Monday in the 400 block of Pifer Street. Police transported a male to Penn Highlands for treatment.
• Police received a report about suspicious circumstances Monday in the 100 block of East Washington Avenue. A female caller told police that someone had thrown her chairs and bicycle off of the front porch twice over the past several days. The caller requested that police provide extra patrols in the area.
• Police responded to the Penn Highlands Hospital for a report about a patient who had allegedly been assaulted earlier Monday night. A female told police that she and her boyfriend reside in the 100 block of West Long Avenue and were involved in a physical altercation prior to her arrival at the hospital. She said her boyfriend had left the residence, and she believed he was in the Brockport area. Police asked the female to provide a written statement upon her release from the hospital.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of theft by deception from a business on Beaver Drive on Tuesday. An unknown individual used banking information to print fake checks that were cashed outside of the area, police said. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• On Tuesday police were dispatched to the intersection of West Long Avenue and South Jared Street for the report about a male and female who were allegedly fighting.  Police said it was also reported that the male was jumping on the hood of the vehicle while the female was driving it, and he was screaming at her. Upon arrival police allegedly found that the male was extremely intoxicated and also on probation.  The male was taken into custody and arrested for public drunkenness, police said.  He was then transported to Clearfield County Jail for the probation violation.
• On Wednesday police were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of Chestnut Avenue for the report about an alleged physical domestic dispute in progress. While speaking with her, police allegedly observed recent injuries that the female had on her face. She was also allegedly complaining about her side hurting her. The female told police that the male pulled her hair, punched her in the head and kicked her in the ribs.  She was transported to the hospital for medical treatment, and the male was arrested for simple assault and harassment, police said. He was then taken into custody and charges were filed against him; he was transported to the CCJ to await arraignment.

CLEARFIELD – A man accused of having a methamphetamine lab at an apartment in Lawrence Park Village waived his right to a preliminary hearing during Centralized Court on Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

Larry Ray Rubly Jr., 43, of Clearfield has been charged with possession of red phosphorous with intent to manufacture a controlled substance, risking catastrophe, criminal attempt/manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, operating a methamphetamine lab and deposits, stores or disposes of chemical waste.

According to the criminal complaint filed by Officer Elliott Neeper of the Lawrence Township police, on Aug. 20 officers received a call from State Parole Agent Keith Summerson, who requested assistance in conducting a follow-up with Larry Rubly Jr. Larry Rubly Jr. was to be staying in apartment 6B at Lawrence Park Village.

Upon arrival Summerson made contact with Mandy Rubly. She confirmed Larry Rubly Jr. was at the apartment, advised he was upstairs and showed the state parole agent to his location. When the state parole agent made contact with Larry Rubly Jr., he was in an upstairs bedroom.

Larry Rubly Jr.’s pants were down around his ankles, and he was allegedly attempting to stick himself with a needle in the leg area. The state parole agent was able to handcuff Larry Rubly Jr.; however, he (Larry Rubly Jr.) discarded the needle.

Larry Rubly Jr. was subsequently taken into custody by the state parole agent. The state parole agent also allegedly located a prohibited offensive weapon in the bedroom that Larry Rubly Jr. stayed in.

While the state parole agents searched for the discarded needle, they also allegedly located multiple items consistent with the manufacture of methamphetamine.

According to the criminal complaint, a two-liter Mountain Dew bottle was allegedly located on the far side of Larry Rubly Jr.’s bed in which a clear, small tube was sticking from the top. Another container was allegedly found directly beside the bottle with an unknown substance inside.  On the heater for the bedroom along the far wall, there allegedly was a container of Drano drain cleaner.

Upon officers looking around Larry Rubly Jr.’s bedroom, they allegedly observed in plain view a container of Ronsonol lighter fluid on a bedroom dresser. Also on the dresser, there was allegedly a coffee pot with residue and a large packet of clear baggies commonly used for drug distribution.

Officers also allegedly observed Larry Rubly Jr.’s driver’s license laying on the bed. While exiting the bedroom, officers allegedly observed a bag containing a packet of a 12-hour decongestant containing 20 tablets.

Based upon these observations, officers determined enough items were present to indicate the possibility of an active methamphetamine lab in Apartment 6B.

Police located a female inside the apartment. She was in the living room and told police she had health issues that prevented her from leaving her bed. She also indicated she was the owner of the apartment and advised Mandy and Larry Rubly Jr. had been staying with her.

Police obtained written consent to search the apartment. Then, police proceeded with an evacuation due to the inherent dangers that exist with the manufacture of methamphetamine.

While attempting to secure the scene after the evacuation, officers allegedly located additional items in plain view that are used for the manufacture of methamphetamine at the bottom of the staircase of the apartment. A large one-gallon container of muriatic acid was allegedly found along with a grocery bag containing used items for the manufacture of methamphetamine.

There was allegedly an additional one-gallon container with white residue with these items.  Inside the grocery bag, officers could allegedly observe used cold compress containers, used suspected lithium batteries, Ronsonol lighter fluid and plastic tubing.

Also inside the grocery bag in plain view, there allegedly was a receipt from Wal-Mart for the purchase of pseudoephedrine tablets on Aug. 19.

Officers then contacted the state Attorney General’s Drug Task Force Unit and the Pennsylvania State Police Clandestine Methamphetamine Lab Unit.

Police transported Mandy Rubly to the station for an interview about her knowledge of items used for the manufacture of methamphetamine being inside the apartment. She initially denied any knowledge that Larry Rubly Jr. was making or using any type of methamphetamine products.

However, she eventually admitted to viewing the two-liter Mountain Dew bottle in the bedroom. She also stated that there was a liquor bottle that contained a brown liquid inside the bedroom.

Mandy Rubly stated when she confronted Larry Rubly Jr. about the two bottles he related he had urinated inside them. She stated that he told her that he would throw out the bottles.

According to police, Mandy Rubly also allegedly admitted to observing a clear bottle with a black top labeled salt.  She stated that she asked Larry Rubly Jr. about this, and he told her that he had been eating in the bedroom.  However, she told police she’d never seen him eating in the bedroom.

She also allegedly admitted to purchasing Sudafed at Wal-Mart sometime at the end of July. Police confirmed that she purchased Sudafed on Aug. 6. However, she denied purchasing pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine or for supplying Larry Rubly Jr. with it to manufacture methamphetamine.

Police received additional information from another female who was suspected of purchasing pseudoephedrine and supplying it to Larry Rubly Jr. She was located at Lawrence Park Village.

She told police that on Aug. 19 Larry Rubly Jr. asked her to purchase pseudoephedrine for him at Wal-Mart. She stated that she declined at first; however, Larry Rubly Jr. called repeatedly and she eventually agreed to.

The female said she met with Larry Rubly Jr. and Mandy Rubly. She said both were present when Larry Rubly Jr. handed her a gift card, gave her the pin number and told her specifically which type of medication to purchase and to also use the card as credit, if possible.

The female said they told her to buy one box of the 12-hour, generic Sudafed.  She went to Wal-Mart where she purchased the pseudoephedrine.  When she returned she said she met both Larry Rubly Jr. and Mandy Rubly to give them the pseudoephedrine. She said Larry Rubly Jr. opened the package to make sure it was what he’d requested her to purchase.

The female told police she put the gift card back in the Wal-Mart bag. Before she left she said Larry Rubly Jr. asked a male for any empty bottles that he had, and he took an empty Juicy Juice bottle.

When Mandy Rubly was interviewed a second time by police, she denied witnessing Larry Rubly Jr. giving the gift card to the female. She also denied going with Larry Rubly Jr. to obtain the pseudoephedrine from the female.

Thomas Stephen Scott (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Hyde man will spend time in state prison for pulling a gun and threatening to kill another man.

Thomas Stephen Scott, 49, 1407 Vaughn St., Hyde, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of possession of firearm prohibited and terroristic threats in one case; terroristic threats and simple assault in a second case; and possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a small amount of marijuana in a third case during plea and sentencing court Tuesday. In addition he pleaded guilty to driving under the influence in two separate cases.

He was sentenced to a total of two to five years in state prison by President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman.

According to the affidavit in the first case, on the evening of June 18, Scott confronted the victim about coming up behind him at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Clearfield and Scott threatened to shoot him. A man stepped in front of Scott in an attempt to calm Scott down.

When the victim turned to leave, Scott kicked him in the lower back. While he attempted to get Scott away from the victim, the man felt an object pushing against his body. The man later saw the wooden handgrips on a pistol that Scott had concealed on his person.

Scott continued to threaten the others and cause problems for the bartender. The bartender shut Scott off and told him to leave the Eagles. Security camera footage shows Scott pulling the revolver from his waistband as he is walking out and putting it in his hand.

This victim told police he felt that the threats Scott made were serious and that he feared for his life.

A written complaint was filed with the Eagles about Scott’s actions. When Scott returned to the Eagles the next morning he was given a 90-day suspension and he got upset. He crumpled up the suspension letter and threw it.

According to the affidavit of probable cause in the second case, Scott knocked on the door of the victim who is the manager of the Eagles, the next morning and spoke with him on his front porch. He accused him of being responsible for suspending him the night before.

After a verbal altercation, Scott brandished a revolver with a brown handle and black stainless steel barrel. He pointed the gun directly in the face of the victim while stating he was there to kill him.

This statement was also heard by a witness who was inside the residence. The verbal confrontation continued and eventually, Scott put the gun down and began to walk toward his vehicle. As he did this, he pointed the revolver at the victim approximately three more times while warning him that he needed to watch his back. He again threatened to kill him.

Later that evening, police received information that Scott was at a tavern on Third Street in Clearfield. When they arrived, they saw Scott walking to his vehicle. He was taken into custody and searched. Officers found he was in possession of a silver pipe, a baggy containing a green leafy substance, and five pills later identified as oxycodone.

Police looked into Scott’s criminal history and discovered he was convicted of a simple assault in a domestic violence case, which prohibits Scott from possessing a firearm.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred Oct. 29 on Bridgeport Road in Pike Township. During the incident, someone allegedly put deer urine in the victim’s vehicle. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred Oct. 30 on Verbeck Lane in Rush Township. During the incident, a Philipsburg man allegedly pushed and kicked the victim. The man was cited for harassment through the district court, state police said.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a business for an activated alarm. Upon arrival police found workers who had accidentally caused it.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct at the Economy Inn that occurred this past Thursday.
• Police received a report about a possible drug violation at a local business.
• Police received a report about an alleged retail theft incident that occurred at Wal-Mart. A female was located by police and charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred on Woodland Road. One female will be cited for the incident, police said.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person who was allegedly behind the former K-Mart building.
• Police received a report about a possible vehicle fire at Save-A-Lot.
• Police received information about a two-vehicle, non-reportable accident that occurred at Arby’s.
• Police received a report about a two-vehicle accident involving an ATA bus at the Clearfield Mall intersection. One female was transported to the hospital for minor injuries, police said.

Sandy Township

• Police received a report about a false alarm at a Satterlee Road warehouse Monday.
• A vehicle driven by a 77-year-old Brockway woman hit a parked vehicle in the Verizon store parking lot Monday on Shaffer Road. Minor damage and no injuries were reported, police said.
• A 50-year-old Newell Road resident reported the neighbors’ horses were loose and in his yard Monday.
• A 15-year-old Garden Grove girl alleged that when she got off the bus from school Monday, a 36-year-old neighbor confronted her and started a verbal argument. Officers made contact with the neighbor and handled the situation without incident.
• Police received a report about a 54-year-old South Main Street woman who was allegedly burning trash Monday in her backyard. The fire was extinguished and the woman was issued a warning for the incident, police said.
• A 40-year-old Denton Avenue man alleged that his 13-year-old son was bitten by a dog while he was waiting for the bus Monday at the corner of Dixon and Brady streets. Police are investigating the incident at this time.
• On Tuesday a 30-year-old Treasure Lake man reported he was upset with the way a situation was handled at the Treasure Lake Post Office over a certified letter. Further, he told police he felt that he was being harassed. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• A 51-year-old DuBois woman reported that her vehicle was hit by a shopping cart while parked in the Wal-Mart parking lot Tuesday.
• A vehicle driven by a 17-year-old Brockway boy failed to stop at the end of the Interstate 80, Exit 97 ramp Tuesday. As a result, it crashed into a vehicle that was being driven by a 61-year-old Falls Creek woman that was traveling north on state Route 219. The boy and his passenger were transported to Penn Highlands by emergency personnel, and both vehicles were towed from the scene, police said.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person in a van Tuesday at the Blinker Sheetz. Upon investigation officers allegedly found a 32-year-old Luthersburg woman who appeared to be under the influence. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• A 24-year-old DuBois man hit a deer on South Brady Street, causing minor damage to his vehicle Tuesday.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about an activated alarm at the ATM machine, located at the Hiller Building, on the Penn State DuBois campus on Wednesday. Officers checked the machine with PSU employees and determined there wasn’t anything out of the ordinary.

CLEARFIELD – All charges were held for court against a Clearfield man who has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman following a preliminary hearing Wednesday during Centralized Court at the Clearfield County Jail.

August Eugene Grannis, 33, of Clearfield has been charged with aggravated indecent assault without consent, indecent assault without consent of other and harassment.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on July 19 Clearfield Borough police received a report about an alleged sexual assault. Upon responding to the report, the victim told police Grannis had inappropriately touched her, and when she told him no, he didn’t stop.

During an interview with police, the victim said another male and Grannis had been drinking. She said when they came back and she was alone talking with Grannis, he began moving closer, which made her uncomfortable. The victim said Grannis allegedly began inappropriately touching her.

She said she told Grannis that she was going to yell for the male to come back into the room. Then, when she tried to get up, the victim said that Grannis allegedly stood over top of her. She told Grannis she had text-messaged and asked for the male to come back, which she said caused Grannis to stop his actions.

During the incident, the victim’s friend said the male had gone back upstairs to see what was going on when he overheard the victim saying “I’ll yell for him.” The friend told police that the male didn’t know what to do, and she text-messaged the victim. After Grannis left, the friend said the victim came downstairs and was crying.

During a phone call with police, Grannis allegedly admitted he had inappropriately touched the victim; however, he claimed that he stopped when she asked him to. Grannis also told police he wasn’t going to lie or hide and would come in for an interview July 20.

In an interview with police, a male said he and Grannis had been talking to the victim. He left the room and went downstairs to talk with friends. While downstairs, the male said he had a “gut feeling” that something wasn’t right and went back upstairs.

As he was going upstairs, the male said he allegedly heard the victim saying “I will holler for him if you don’t stop.” He said he panicked but at the same time didn’t want to make any assumptions. When he went downstairs, he told a female friend who text-messaged the victim.

After his friend and the victim exchanged text messages, the male said that Grannis allegedly came downstairs and left. He said the victim came downstairs and told them Grannis stopped his actions and left after the text message exchange.

When asked if Grannis had been drinking prior to the incident, the male told police that Grannis had quite a bit of “Jager” and “Jack.” He told police that Grannis was “pretty intoxicated.”

On July 20 Grannis allegedly claimed that he’s had consensual sexual relations with the victim.

Tyler J. Sears (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A former carnival worker was in court Tuesday to plead guilty for inappropriately touching a 13-year-old girl.

Tyler John Sears, 21, 406 W. Clay St., Mebane, NC, currently an inmate of the jail, was charged with indecent assault after an incident Aug. 5 in Lawrence Township when he allegedly touched the victim’s breast and kissed her neck.

Sears had signed a plea agreement for 87 days or time served in this case. After hearing comments from the girl’s mother, father and step-father who all disagreed with the sentence, President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman rejected the plea. His case will be added to the trial list.

The girl’s mother called the sentence “a slap on the wrist.” Her father stated that his daughter is just a child and he felt Sears should be reprimanded more harshly. Her step-father described her as naive and said Sears took advantage of her. He was also upset that Sears had “violated my space” and “hurt my daughter.”

According to the affidavit of probable cause, Sears met the victim while he was working on the midway on Aug. 2 during the Clearfield County Fair. She told police she gave him her phone number on Aug. 4 and they began texting each other. On Aug. 5 she invited him to her home and they met in the backyard. A friend of the victim was also present.

While there, Sears grabbed the girl’s breast. The girl pushed his hand away, but Sears then kissed her on the neck. The victim and her friend ran into her home.

She told police he knew she was 13 years old. Unfortunately the victim had deleted all of their text messages from her phone.

Police contacted the friend who confirmed the victim’s story.

Officers next spoke to Sears at the fair grounds. He was taken to the police station where he was questioned.

At first he denied meeting with the girl or her friend, but he consented to a search of his phone. An officer was able to find the text message conversation he had with the victim, which included directions to her home.

Sears then changed his story admitting he had met the girls. He denied kissing the victim and said they only “hung out.” He said he did know she was only 13 years old.

Eventually, he corroborated the victim’s story. He stated he knew a “skin on skin charge” would be coming out of this and he had “messed up.”

Joshua Leverett (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Texas man charged with stalking a hotel employee pleaded guilty to lesser charges Tuesday during plea and sentencing court.

Joshua Leverett, 19, 11320 Tom Viozas Dr., El Paso, Texas, an inmate of the jail, pleaded guilty to two summary counts each of harassment and disorderly conduct. He was sentenced by Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to 95 days to one year in jail. He was fined only $4 plus costs.

Ammerman noted that Leverett is “not from around here” and was only in the area because of a gas leak. He said he expected that Leverett would never come back and speculated the county would never receive payment for his fines and costs.

The charges stem from incidents on Aug. 2 in Lawrence Township. According to the affidavit of probable cause, the victim called police to report that a man staying at the hotel had been following her around and refusing to leave her alone. When she arrived for her shift, Leverett was sitting on a bench outside the entrance. He followed her into the lobby area where he stayed for most of the evening.

He started with small talk and was polite. But as the night wore on, he referred to how he had been in jail and asked her many times to go back to his room.

She tried to keep her answers as short as possible, hoping he would “get the hint” and leave her alone. Although she isn’t supposed to leave the front desk, she repeatedly asked the bartender if she could help her in an effort to get away from Leverett. She also tried to look busy so he would leave her alone, but he stayed near her.

At one point, she left the front desk to lock the entrance to the pool area after it closed. He followed her and pulled her close when she tried to lock the pool door. She turned and was able to push him away. He tried to grab her and again she pushed him away.

When she got back to the front desk, he asked her if they were going to talk about what happened at the pool. She told him nothing happened because she wasn’t sure what to say. She was very scared but she didn’t want to anger him for fear he would hurt her.

He stayed in the lobby area and kept asking if she would go to his room. He said he would “only need 10 to 45 minutes of her time.” He said it was probably her only chance to see him because he and his friends were leaving in the morning.

The victim called a co-worker to tell him what was happening and explain how she was reluctant to walk to her car after her shift ended because she wasn’t sure what Leverett would do to her outside.

When the co-worker entered the property, Leverett left the lobby and went to his room. The victim said she broke down crying and called her manager to tell her of the situation. She returned home and told her husband. She was very emotional and they agreed she needed to call police.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment that occurred Thursday on Lingle Street in Osceola Mills Borough. During the incident, a known Osceola Mills resident allegedly struck the victim in the side of the face and then fled from the residence. Charges were filed through the district court, state police said.

State police at DuBois

• On Thursday a DuBois man allegedly shoved and struggled with the victim during a physical domestic dispute at a Bennetts Valley Highway address in Huston Township. Upon arrival of state police, the man allegedly barricaded himself inside the residence and resisted arrest.
• On Wednesday state police received a report about a lost firearm, a .22 revolver, in the Hazen area of Warsaw Township. Anyone who finds the lost firearm is asked to contact the state police at DuBois at 814-371-4652.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime between Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at the Brady Township Community Center in Luthersburg. During the incident, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the gravel parking lot and spun circles. As a result of their actions, it allegedly caused rocks to be thrown at nearby buildings. There was several hundreds of dollars’ worth of damage, state police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at DuBois at 814-371-4652.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of burglary that occurred sometime between Nov. 1 and Wednesday on Ammerman Road in Union Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victim’s residence and disturbed items. There wasn’t anything reported missing, and the incident remains under investigation at this time.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an alleged incident of theft by unlawful taking that occurred sometime between Aug. 15 and Thursday at Powell and Associates in Young Township. During the incident, someone allegedly took a brass key lock that was valued at $10. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to South Fifth Street for a parking complaint. Police responded to the complaint; however, the vehicle had left prior to their arrival.
• Police responded to Bigler Avenue for a minor vehicle accident. The accident was non-reportable, police said.
• Curwensville Borough police were assisted with an incident in Curwensville.
• Police responded to Nichols Street for a minor vehicle accident. No injuries and minor damage were reported as a result, police said.
• Police received a call regarding a stolen vehicle. Further, police located the vehicle and determined that the incident was a civil and not a criminal matter.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a found wallet at Wal-Mart.
• Police received a report about the alleged violation of the Controlled Substance Act that occurred at a local business.
• Police received a report about an alleged trespassing incident and dispute over property. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about a 911 hang-up call. Upon investigation police found a child was playing with a phone.
• Police assisted another agency with taking in individual into custody.
• Police received a report about a male who was allegedly removing antlers from a deer along the roadway. However, the male was gone upon police arrival.
• Police received a report about possible contraband at a local facility. Police are continuing their investigation of the incident.
• Police received a report about a civil issue at a local business. Police referred people to the proper authorities.
• Police received a report about a telephone scam that targeted elderly citizens. The caller, according to police, allegedly claimed to be a detective from the Chicago Police Department holding a grandchild until bail was sent via reloadable cards.
• Police received a report about a possible DUI in the area of Industrial Drive.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of harassment on Whiskey Hill Road.
• Police received a report about a landlord/tenant civil issue. Police referred people to the proper authorities.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct.
• Police received a report about an activated alarm at Kwik Fill on Race Street. Everything was found to be OK, police said.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about an alleged domestic disturbance that occurred Wednesday in the 600 block of Chestnut Avenue. Upon arrival to the scene, police made contact with a male and his girlfriend. The male, according to police, denied knowing why officers had arrived at the residence. However, when police spoke with his girlfriend she alleged she’d been punched in the face, kicked in the ribs and had her hair pulled by the male. Police allegedly observed recent injuries and arrested the male for simple assault and harassment; he was taken to the Clearfield County Jail to await arraignment. The female was treated and released, police said.
• Police received a report about suspicious activity Wednesday in the 100 block of West Scribner Avenue. The caller told police that he believed someone had entered his basement and moved his security cameras. Upon arrival police didn’t locate anyone hiding in the residence or any indication of entry.
• On Wednesday police were dispatched to the 500 block of West Washington Avenue for a report about two dogs that were loose in the neighborhood and chasing the caller’s two children. Upon arrival police located the dog’s owner who admitted they weren’t licensed and vaccinated. Police will cite the owner of the dogs for several violations.

Sandy Township

• Police received a report about two Pit Bulls that were running loose in the area of Garden Grove Townhouses on Wednesday. The owner of the dogs was located, and they were returned to the owner.
• Police were dispatched to an Ollie Lane Residence for a 911 hang-up call on Wednesday. The call appeared accidental, police said.
• On Thursday Aqua employees alleged that someone kicked in the gate around the water tank system in Treasure Lake and then damaged a gauge on the outside of the tank. Damage is estimated at $1,500, police said, and the incident remains under investigation at this time.

Decatur Township

• Police responded to a hit-and-run accident at the intersection of Sue and Mcateer streets in Houtzdale. The operator of the suspect vehicle was contacted by police and advised he had provided information to the victim.
• Police checked the welfare of a female at a Frog Hollow address.
• Police located a dog along Logan Road and returned it to the owners.
• Police responded to a report about a tractor-trailer that was off of the roadway and on guiderails at the intersection of Stone Street and Stumptown Road.
• Police responded to a 911 hang-up call at Second Street address. Further, police believed that a phone malfunctioned, as there wasn’t anyone at home.
• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle in the area of Vanettas Lane. The occupant(s) of the vehicle was/were allegedly harassing residents, police said, noting they left the area and didn’t return.
• Police received reports about two, different alleged incidents of vandalism that occurred in Houtzdale. Further, police said that male genitalia were allegedly drawn on the rear of the Legion and on a mattress outside of an old Franklin Siding Road address. Anyone with information is asked to contact police.
• Police received a report about an alleged dispute behind CVS Pharmacy in Philipsburg. During the incident, three homeless people allegedly engaged in an argument. Police asked the people to leave the area.
• Police received a report about an alleged burglary at a Horseshoe Curve address. During the incident, someone allegedly removed two, five-gallon gas cans from a camp.
• Police received a report about an alleged burglary on Coal Run Road. During the incident, someone allegedly took jewelry from the victim’s residence. Police are continuing their investigation of the incident.
• Police assisted two people who were from out of the area with car problems at the GEO Prison.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief on Chestnut Street. During the incident, someone allegedly let air out of tires.
• Police received a report about a deer that was struck along Six Mile Road. Police were unable to locate it.
• Police received a report about a vehicle that was struck at a Gearhartsville address.