State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Oct. 14 in the 200 block of Buttonwood Street in Unionville Borough. During the incident, a suspect allegedly stole 84 oxycodone pills from the victim’s residence. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a theft of service, while actors are allegedly using a dumpster without permission.
• Police issued a parking ticket due to a vehicle that was considered abandoned on the street.
• Police assisted Lawrence Township police with locating a vehicle on Daisy Street that they had on a traffic complaint.
• Police responded to an alleged domestic dispute on Margaretta Street between a male and female.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person who was believed to be smoking marijuana. Police checked on the male and found nothing illegal.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a civil complaint over personal property.
• Police served a warrant on a Clearfield female for unpaid fines.
• Police received a report about a traffic violation.

Sandy Township

• On Monday a 21-year-old Reynoldsville man lost control of a company vehicle at a residence on Wayne Road. The vehicle rolled down a hill and hit another residence, causing severe damage to the foundation.  No injuries were reported as a result, police said.
• On Tuesday a woman reported that she needed assistance from police because she had gone through the drive-up window at Wendy’s and when she later discovered a ripped $5 bill among her change, she returned to exchange it and they refused. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Tuesday a 25-year-old Treasure Lake woman reported that her 39-year-old live-in boyfriend would not let her leave their house. Officer handled the situation without incident.

CLEARFIELD – A Houtzdale woman accused of taking over $56,000 from her employer by writing herself extra payroll checks was sentenced Tuesday.

Mary Jean Miller, 52, pleaded guilty to 10 counts of theft by deception before Judge Paul Cherry. He sentenced her to 90 days to one year in jail and four years consecutive probation.

As part of her plea agreement, she paid $59,374.32 in restitution prior to sentencing.

The charges stem from her actions while employed by Clearfield Face Veneer in Lawrence Township. Part of her job responsibilities was writing the payroll checks. She wrote several extra checks to herself and also paid herself for extra vacation and personal days.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, police were contacted by the owner of the company, Jerry Bloom. He told them the company is no longer in business but when two separate accountants went through their records they discovered a discrepancy of $56,374.33.

Closer investigation of these numbers revealed that these funds were dispersed to Miller through checks written from a company checking account and were signed by Miller.

Miller was given the responsibility of writing payroll checks in December of 2006. She was given the privilege of signing the checks herself without the need for any additional signatures, according to the complaint.

It was the policy of the company that employees could sell back their vacation time. The maximum Miller would have each year would be 10 vacation days and two personal days.

In 2007 she was paid for 32 vacation/personal days, in 2008 for 22 days, in 2009 for 29 days, in 2010 for 35 days, in 2011 for 40 days, in 2012 for 22 days, in 2013 for 24 days, in 2014 for 40 days and in 2015 she was paid for 25 vacation days, according to court records.

She started writing the extra checks to herself just after she was given the responsibility of writing payroll checks. On Dec. 1, 2006 she wrote two additional checks to herself for $361.92.

Police say she wrote five additional checks for that amount in December of 2006. The total in that month alone is $2,533.44.

According to court documents, she paid herself an extra $3,301 with 11 extra checks in 2007; in 2008 she had a total of $4,164 in 10 checks; in 2009 it was a total of $6,076 in 15 checks; in 2010 she received 15 additional checks for a total of $6,200; in 2011 she wrote 11 additional checks totaling $5,500; in 2012 she wrote seven extra checks for $3,700; in 2013 she received 14 extra checks for a total of $5,900; in 2014, she received $9,700 in 21 additional checks; and in 2015 she wrote 10 additional checks for a total of $4,500.

TAYLOR TOWNSHIP – State police at Philipsburg have initiated an investigation into an alleged robbery Wednesday night in the 500 block of Hannah Hill in Taylor Township.

According to the report, a Port Matilda woman was outside of her residence to retrieve items from her vehicle parked in her driveway.

While outside, an unknown Caucasian male grabbed her arm and demanded money. “[The] actor fled the scene into a wooded area after the victim was able to retrieve a handgun from inside her vehicle,” state police say.

The male was described as wearing a black mask, a dark-hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Philipsburg at 814-342-3370.

CLEARFIELD – An Irvona man accused of manufacturing methamphetamine and having marijuana at his residence was in centralized court for his preliminary hearing Wednesday.

Ethan A. Brink, 24, of Irvona has been charged with two counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver; knowingly possess ephedrine; conspiracy/knowingly possess ephedrine; possession of red phosphorus, etc., with intent to manufacture controlled substance; conspiracy/possession of red phosphorus, etc., with intent to manufacture controlled substance; deposits, stores, disposes of chemical waste; conspiracy/deposits, stores, disposes of chemical waste; intentional possession of a controlled substance; use/possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of liquefied ammonia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; operating a methamphetamine lab; conspiracy/possession of liquefied ammonia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; and conspiracy/operating a methamphetamine lab.

Brandye Lynn Hull, 25, of Irvona has also been charged by the Pennsylvania State Police with manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver; conspiracy/manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver; knowingly possess ephedrine; conspiracy/knowingly possess ephedrine; possession of red phosphorus, etc., with intent to manufacture controlled substance; conspiracy/possession of red phosphorus, etc., with intent to manufacture controlled substance; deposits, stores, disposes of chemical waste; conspiracy/deposits, stores, disposes of chemical waste; intentional possession of a controlled substance; use/possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of liquefied ammonia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; operating a methamphetamine lab; conspiracy/possession of liquefied ammonia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; and conspiracy/operating a methamphetamine lab.

Hull had previously waived all charges against her to the Court of Common Pleas for further disposition. Brink waived his set of charges to court at his preliminary hearing Wednesday.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, in the early-morning hours Oct. 4, state police were asked to investigate a reported drug violation at a Brink Road residence in Chest Township.

Troopers had previously responded to follow up on a domestic disturbance and observed marijuana plants hanging on the living room wall as well as growing behind the residence. Additionally, troopers had observed a needle and several items of drug paraphernalia. All of which prompted state police to prepare a search warrant on the residence.

Later that day, troopers who were members of the Troop C Vice Unit served the warrant. Located in a bedroom were two, large drying marijuana plants with the root ball attached and several branches from a marijuana plant. Outside the residence were four potted marijuana plants. Several baggies were found containing processed marijuana and a large envelope with processed marijuana spread out on top of it, the affidavit states.

Located in the kitchen area was a soda cap with plastic tubing attached, a coffee filter with white residue, numerous batteries, a large quantity of small, plastic baggies, Coleman camp fuel and drainer cleaner. Located under the sink area in the kitchen was a blue, plastic tote containing lye, cold packs, acetone and plastic bottles. These are all items commonly used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.

A purse and bag belonging to Hull was searched and inside state police allegedly found a plastic sandwich bag containing suspected marijuana, a needle, two soda bottle caps with plastic tubing attached, a plastic tubing smoking device, Sudafed, empty waxen stamp bags, an unknown liquid, rock salt, a pipe, a spoon and syringe along with assorted prescription drugs.

On Oct. 4 state police interviewed Brink and he produced a written statement. He told state police that the marijuana and plants and the meth “supplies” belonged to him. However, he indicated that the “ingredients” in the blue, plastic tote belonged to both him and Hull, which they used for the manufacture and sale of methamphetamine.

Brink also said that approximately three to four months prior, they had been involved in this activity and split the proceeds “down the middle.”

State police later located an active, one-pot methamphetamine lab under a bucket in the kitchen. Also, located within the residence were three firearms, according to the affidavit.

John Lutzow (Provided Photo).

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man will spend time in state prison for sending graphic photos to an underage girl.

John Paul Lutzow, 33, pleaded guilty to design/copy obscene material-depicting minor, Tuesday during sentencing court.

Judge Paul Cherry sentenced him to nine months to five years in state prison. He was fined $1 plus costs and was ordered to complete the Project Point of Light Program.

Prior to sentencing, Cherry stated that he hoped Lutzow would get “the help you need to deal with the various issues you have.” It was noted that Lutzow had a Megan’s Law assessment, but was found not to be a sexually violent predator. However, he will still have to register his address under Megan’s Law because he is a sexual offender.

The charges stem from incidents in March when Lutzow exchanged naked photos with a teenage girl.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, after the girl stayed at his home Feb. 20, they began texting. A witness told police about the contact on March 9.

Lutzow’s phone was seized as part of the investigation, and officers were able to determine that text messages between the victim and Lutzow had been deleted.

When police spoke with the victim, she admitted they had been talking “inappropriately” since Feb. 27. For a few days, it was just talk and then he sent her a naked photo of himself from the waist down, she said.

He then asked her to send him photos of her “private parts.” She responded with a photo of herself in only a bra. He asked for more and she then sent him various naked photos.

In an interview with police March 10, he denied sending or receiving photos from the victim and claimed the witness was upset with him and this was why she was making accusations.

The victim’s father found an iPod the victim had been using to send text messages. He gave it to police. On this device, investigators found naked photos determined to be Lutzow as well as text messages between him and the victim. The victim’s cell phone also had multiple naked photos of the victim.

None of these photos were found on Lutzow’s cell phone.

During a second interview with police, Lutzow eventually admitted to sending the naked photos and asking for photos of the victim. He said he sent the photos from an old cell phone. He stated he did this because he was “lonely,” but added that he was “a piece of [expletive]” for doing these things and that he “wanted to die.”

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of terroristic threats that occurred Wednesday on Gillingham Road in Girard Township. During the incident, a Lecontes Mills man and the victim became involved in an argument over the victim’s dog; the man allegedly threatened to kill the victim and his dog. However, the victim has declined prosecution of this matter.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of disorderly conduct that occurred Wednesday at Windy Hill Village in Rush Township. Upon arrival it was found that a Philipsburg man had allegedly made inappropriate comments to the victim. He was cited through the district court.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to a report about a disabled vehicle on Bigler Avenue. It was removed from the roadway.
• Police responded to a single-vehicle accident on East Market Street. No injuries were reported as a result, and the vehicle had minor damage, police said.
• Police responded to a report of disorderly conduct in the area of Linden Street. Further, police made contact with the actors involved in the incident.
• Police received information about a possible scam. Residents are reminded not to give out any personal information over the phone.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Woodland Road and Bigler Avenue. One person was injured as a result; one vehicle was towed from the scene, police said.
• Police received a report about a hit-and-run accident along the Clearfield-Curwensville Highway. When police located the driver, it was found his tractor-trailer had hit a business’ building.
• Police received a report about a recovered car trailer that had been listed as stolen in another state.
• Police received a report about a traffic hazard on the Clearfield – Curwensville Highway. It was removed from the roadway, police said.
• Police received a report about an incident that was determined to be civil in nature. Police referred those involved to the magistrate.
• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief in the area of Robinson Avenue, where juveniles allegedly broke four windows, a shed door and a flood light.
• Police received a report about an erratic driver in the Clearfield Mall parking lot. Police made contact with the driver and issued a citation.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct on Willow Drive.

CLEARFIELD – Two people arrested as part of the “Operation Ice Storm” drug investigation in March were scheduled for sentencing Tuesday.

Hank C. Petrillo, 28, DuBois, is charged with felony counts of manufacture/delivery/possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal conspiracy, and dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity.

Petrillo’s sentencing was continued to November to allow Judge Paul Cherry to review a statute regarding the state Intermediate Punishment Program to determine whether Petrillo would be eligible for the program.

Senior Deputy Attorney General Dave Gorman, who is prosecuting the case, stated he did not think Petrillo was “an appropriate candidate” for the program, but Petrillo’s attorney, Chris Mohney, argued that he was eligible.

Petrillo was charged after he and two others were discovered traveling from Philadelphia with 12.38 grams of heroin and 12.91 grams of meth in a vehicle in June 19, 2015, according to grand jury testimony.

Cynthia K. Teats, 49, Curwensville, pleaded guilty Tuesday to possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance-methamphetamine.

She was sentenced by Judge Paul Cherry to three months to one year in jail and one year consecutive probation. She was ordered to complete a drug awareness program and was fined $300 plus costs.

According to the affidavit of probable cause in her case, Clearfield County Drug Task Force members met with a confidential informant regarding the purchase of a quarter of a gram of meth from Teats. On June 15, 2015, they traveled to Teats’ residence. The informant entered the apartment where Teats sold him/her the drug for $20.

The arrests in “Operation Ice Storm” were the result of a year-long investigation that involved the DuBois City and Sandy Township Police Departments, the Clearfield County Drug Task Force, the District Attorney, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.

Editor’s Note: GANT has teamed up with local law enforcement agencies throughout Clearfield County to develop a listing of persons for whom there are arrest warrants. Anyone with information about wanted persons is asked to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency. GANT will update its warrant page monthly based upon information provided by the participating law enforcement agencies.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Friday on Sportsman’s Road in Cooper Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged the victim’s yard with a vehicle and then fled the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.
• State police responded to a single-vehicle crash Friday on Route 729 south at the three-way intersection of Plank and Muddy Run roads in Gulich Township. Tiffany D. Mcalkich was traveling around a left-hand curve when a northbound vehicle made a late turn signal indication and turned onto Plank Road. Mcalkich swerved to miss the oncoming vehicle; her vehicle traveled along a ditch and impacted a sign. It then continued traveling until coming to its final rest on Muddy Run Road. The Mcalkich vehicle was towed from the scene.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of simple assault that followed a domestic dispute Thursday on German Road in Cooper Township. A 35-year-old Drifting man was arrested for the incident and housed at the county jail; state police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of simple assault that occurred Saturday on Don Street in Houtzdale Borough. During the incident, a Tyrone man and the victim became engaged in a heated argument. He allegedly choked her and pulled her hair out of her head. She ran to the neighbor’s house to escape from him. The man was arrested for the incident and transported to the county jail, state police said.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Oct. 17 on the Viola Pike in Smithmill. During the incident, someone allegedly severely damaged two sections of white fence by throwing pumpkins and a log through it. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Sunday in a wooded area off of Hegarty Road in Coalport. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged a red cattle gate in a wooded area by driving through it to access the gated road. 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 incident of aggravated assault Thursday on Olive Road in Snyder Township. During the incident, a man allegedly coerced a woman into his car and then physically assaulted her by binding her legs and grabbing her by the throat. He struck the victim multiple times and threw her from his car, according to the report. He had two children in the car at the time of the incident. Charges are currently pending through the district court.
• State police reported a DUI that occurred Sunday on Route 255 in Sandy Township. Further, a Penfield man was stopped for a traffic violation and while speaking with him, state police allegedly detected a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. He was subsequently arrested for DUI along with other summary violations, which are pending blood test results.
• State police received a report about recklessly endangering that occurred Sept. 16 on Seventh Avenue Extension in Snyder Township. During the incident, a male suspect allegedly placed meatal caltrops on the roadway, and they were run over by the victims in their vehicles.
• State police reported an incident of DUI/theft that occurred Sept. 11 on Main Street in Falls Creek Borough. During the incident, two suspects were involved in a vehicle chase and it was determined the first suspect had allegedly stolen money from the second suspect. The second suspect was also determined to be driving under the influence of drugs, state police said.
• On Saturday state police recovered a cell phone on Route 950 near Gospel Center Road in Winslow Township. 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 incident of terroristic threats that occurred Oct. 20 on East Mountain Road in Worth Township. Upon arrival it was found the victim was receiving threatening text messages from an unknown person, state police said. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police reported a DUI that occurred Wednesday on North Front Street in Philipsburg Borough. As a result, state police arrested an Osceola Mills man.
• State police reported a natural death occurred Friday at a Presqueisle Street residence in Philipsburg Borough. Troopers indicated their investigation had determined a 66-year-old Philipsburg woman’s death was due to ongoing health issues. State police said the case will remain open pending receipt of the coroner’s report.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Oct. 21 on Fifth Street in Philipsburg Borough. Upon investigation, state police found someone had allegedly posted a false advertisement on the Craig’s List Web site, which included the victim’s personal information. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police reported a fatal crash Saturday on Steele Hollow Road in Huston Township. Carlton L. Henry, 60, of Julian was traveling northwest in his Harley Davidson trike when it left the right side of the roadway. It subsequently struck a small embankment and a stone retaining wall. Henry was pronounced dead at the scene by Centre County Coroner Scott Sayers.
• State police responded to an accident in the Weis Market parking lot Oct. 19 in Philipsburg Borough. Further, a vehicle was out of gear and drifted back striking another vehicle and a pedestrian. The pedestrian sustained injury of unknown severity, state police said.
• State police reported an incident of fleeing and eluding that occurred Oct. 19 at the intersection of Ninth and East Pine streets in Philipsburg Borough. Troopers attempted to stop a vehicle operated by an Osceola Mills man after a violation. However, the man allegedly sped up and fled, traveling through the borough at a high rate of speed and nearly striking a woman and baby. After that the man proceeded to travel through a yard while attempting to negotiate a right-hand curve before fleeing the area. He was located a short time later, state police said, and he was arraigned in district court.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft by unlawful taking that occurred between Oct. 25 and Saturday on North Front Street in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, someone allegedly removed $239 from the victim’s residence.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of simple assault/harassment that occurred Oct. 22 on West Market Street in Timblin Borough. It involved a known male and a juvenile victim, state police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Friday in a field across from Bloss Road in Perry Township. During the incident, someone allegedly drove a side-by-side through the victim’s yard, causing damage. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.
• State police received a report about an incident of t theft by deception that occurred Thursday at a Pansy Hollow Road in Beaver Township. During the incident, the victim tried to buy a dog online and sent the suspect multiple e-mails in regards to shipping costs. The victim sent $350 through Western Union with an address located in Nigeria; the victim neither received the dog nor any money back, state police said.
• State police reported an incident of DUI that occurred Saturday on Routes 219 and 36 in Mahaffey Borough. Further, troopers conducted a traffic stop and determined a Grampian man had driven after allegedly consuming a sufficient amount of alcohol. He was taken for blood testing, which returned above the legal limit. Charges were filed through the district court as a result.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to a vehicle accident at the intersection of West Front and Fulton streets. No injuries were reported at the scene, police said.
• Police responded to a vehicle accident at the intersection of West Front and Nichols streets. No injuries were reported at the scene, police said.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run on North Second Street. The vehicle returned to the scene; no injuries were reported in the accident, police said.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief to a motor vehicle in the area of South Fifth Street. Residents are reminded to secure their vehicles.
• Police responded to East Market Street for a report about a dumpster fire. It was extinguished with assistance of the fire department, police said.
• Police responded to Jim’s Sports Center for a report about an alleged theft. Upon arrival the suspect was at the scene, police said.
• Police responded to Dorey Street for a report about gunshots or fireworks. However, officers searched the area with negative findings.
• Police responded to a domestic dispute on East Market Street. It was resolved following police arrival.
• Police responded to a domestic dispute on Dorey Street. It was resolved following police arrival.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an alleged incident of retail theft in the area of Washington Avenue.
• Police received a traffic complaint that occurred in the area of Willow Drive.
• Police received a report about a missing juvenile in the Hyde area. The juvenile was later located at the Crossroads and returned home, police said.
• Police served a warrant on a person who was located by Clearfield Borough police.
• Police responded to a possible disturbance along Turnpike Avenue.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of theft in the area of Lowes Boulevard.
• Police assisted a motorist with a vehicle lockout in the area of 21^st
• Police conducted a warrant service in the area of River Road. A female suspect was detained and housed in county jail, police said.
• Police conducted a warrant service in the area of East Market Street.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of indecent exposure in the area of Birchfield Street.
• Police received a report about damaged property at a local business on Route 879.
• Police responded to a psychological emergency in the area of Daisy Street.
• Police conducted a warrant service in the area of Daisy Street.
• Police received a report about a civil issue in the area of Clarendon Avenue.
• Police received a traffic complaint in the area of Daisy Street Extension.
• Police responded to a psychological emergency at Mountain Laurel Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center.

Fugitive of the Week: Colt Kramer (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. has announced Clearfield County’s Fugitive of the Week. He identified the fugitive as Colt Kramer, 31, of 13th Street, Philipsburg.

Kramer is wanted for failure to appear at criminal call Oct. 27, at which time a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On Feb. 8 Deputy George DeHaven of the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office filed a criminal complaint, charging Kramer with endangering the welfare of children, M1.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Feb. 8 deputies were flagged down by a witness who had observed a small child wandering around unsupervised in the Centre and Hill streets area of Chester Hill.

Upon making contact with the witness and the child, deputies were able to determine where the child resided at. Deputies responded to the residence; however, they were unable to make contact with anyone.

Upon further investigation, it was determined the child was left under the supervision of Kramer when the child’s mother had left the residence, deputies said.

A preliminary hearing was held Feb. 17, at which time all charges were held to court. On Oct. 27, Kramer failed to appear at criminal call, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Kramer is described as a Caucasian male standing 5 feet, 10 inches tall. He has brown hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with knowledge of Kramer’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 Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Sunday on Atlantic Avenue in Bigler Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged the victim’s metal mailbox and post; damage is estimated at $30. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.
• State police received a report about a motor vehicle theft that occurred Monday on Fernwood Road in Gulich Township. During the incident, someone allegedly took the victim’s gold Infiniti passenger car from his front yard area. It was a 1997 made and Infiniti model 130 with Pennsylvania registration. There is a person of interest at this time, state police said.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an incident of t heft that occurred Oct. 12 at the Falls Creek Post Office in Falls Creek Borough. During the incident, the victim left medication on the post office counter and it subsequently went missing.
• State police received a report about an incident of scattering rubbish that occurred Friday on Oklahoma-Salem and Smith roads in Brady Township. During the incident, someone allegedly dumped multiple tires on the CONSOL energy property.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Oct. 19 on Earnestville Road in Rush Township. During the incident, a known Philipsburg man allegedly grabbed and pushed the victim. He was cited for the incident, state police said.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of simple assault that occurred Monday on Byers Road in Burnside Township. During the incident, a Mahaffey male allegedly caused bodily injury to the victim. He was transported to the DuBois Penn Highlands Hospital for a mental health evaluation. Charges are currently pending a prosecution decision by the District Attorney’s office.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to Bigler Avenue for a report about a psychological emergency. As a result, a male was transported by police to Clearfield Penn Highlands Hospital.
• Police patrolled the borough during Trick-or-Treat hours. No incidents were reported as a result, police said.
• Police responded to the J.G. Food Warehouse for an alleged incident of retail theft. Upon arrival police made contact with the suspects.
• A cell phone was found in the area of East Market Street and turned into police.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a reported disturbance in the area of South Second Street.
• Police received a traffic complaint that occurred on Route 879.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft in the area of Washington Avenue.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief in the area of South Second Street.
• Police received a report about a possible drunken driver on Route 879. However, police located the driver and found them to be sober.
• Police assisted emergency personnel with a medical emergency in Country Club.

Sandy Township

• Police received a report about a false alarm at Window World on Friday.
• A 31-year-old Lincoln Drive woman reported someone was inside her residence Friday. Upon arrival the woman would not allow officers in the house.  Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Friday a vehicle driven by a 33-year-old Falls Creek man ran into a vehicle that was being driven by a 60-year-old DuBois woman that was stopped at a stop sign. No injuries were reported as a result, and both vehicles were driven from the scene, police said.
• A man reported being run off the roadway by a tractor-trailer Friday in the area of the Pilot Travel Center. Officers searched the area for the offending vehicle, but it had left the area prior to police arrival.
• Police received a report about a possible domestic dispute Friday at the parking lot of Garden Grove. A female was walking across the lot talking on the phone and a male was following her. After the female yelled at the male, they went in separate directions, according to the report. However, officers could not locate either party.
• On Friday a Reynoldsville woman reported that while her daughter was driving home, she thought she hit a bear on Behringer Highway between Sheetz and the Thunderbird. The girl was not injured and the bear could not be located, police said.
• On Saturday a 39-year-old Rossiter woman reported that someone hit and damaged her vehicle while it was parked at the First Baptist Church.
• On Saturday a 17-year-old DuBois boy was traveling on South Eighth Street, when he lost control while rounding a curve. This caused his vehicle to hit an embankment and come to rest on its driver’s side. No injuries were reported as a result, and his vehicle was towed from the scene, police said.
• On Saturday police were called to the Blinker Sheetz due to a man who was slumped over the steering wheel of his car in the parking lot. Upon arrival officers were able to wake the 54-year-old Big Run man, at which point he admitted to having too much to drink. He felt it was too dangerous to drive home, so he pulled into the parking lot to sleep, he told police. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Saturday employees of Spirit Halloween reported a known 36-year-old Punxsutawney woman came in, left and later came back wearing a costume and accessories, which she wanted to exchange for a different size. After employees took a picture of her in the costume and confronted her for allegedly stealing the items, they gave her the opportunity to pay for the items.  At that time, she fled the store.  Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• On Sunday a bus driver attempted to pull through the fuel island meant for passenger cars at Pilot. He traveled into the grassy area, damaging the landscaping and a fire hydrant.
• Police reported a false alarm at Hawbaker’s on Sunday.
• Police were advised of a group of kids playing on rock piles at the township stock pile Sunday. Officers handled the situation without incident.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Oct. 19 on the Tyrone Pike in Rush Township. During the incident, someone allegedly took tools that belonged to the victim.

State police at DuBois

• State police reported an incident of DUI that occurred Sunday on Route 322 at Cameron Camp Road in Winslow Township. Further, a Reynoldsville woman was stopped for a traffic violation and determined to allegedly be under the influence. Charges are currently pending at this time.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Tuesday on the Million Dollar Highway in Fox Township. During the incident, two Kersey residents allegedly pushed and subjected each other to unwanted physical contact. Both were cited for the incident through the district court.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to a parking complaint along Elm Avenue. According to the report, paving was being done in the area, and police made contact with a person about moving a vehicle.
• Police fingerprinted a person for employment at a trucking business.
• Police responded to and assisted with a vehicle lockout in the area of South Second Street.
• Police responded to the hospital for a patient who was allegedly in possession of drug paraphernalia. During the investigation, a male was also found to be in possession of paraphernalia, police said.  Police are continuing their investigation at this time.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief and the theft of two bows in the Hyde area.
• Police received a report about alleged neglect in the area of the Mountain Laurel Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center.
• Police received a report about a psychological emergency in the area of Highview Road.
• Police received a report about alleged access device fraud that occurred in the area of Dorey Street Extension.
• Police received a report about a fugitive from justice in the area of 21^st
• Police received a report about suspicious persons in the area of Hill Street.
• Police received a report about a psychological emergency.
• Police received a noise complaint that occurred in Hillsdale.

Decatur Township

• Police received a report about an incident of theft/burglary. During the incident, someone allegedly took an X-Box360, controllers and around 70-80 games from the victim’s residence. Anyone with information is asked to contact Decatur Township police.
• Police received a report about an incident of disorderly conduct on Baughman Cemetery Road, where a male allegedly urinated in front of a female.
• Police received a report about Donald Trump signs allegedly being stolen on coal Run Road. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Decatur Township police.
• Police arrested two males who were allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana, LSD and other drug paraphernalia.
• Police responded to the Eliza Street area, while a male reported that his father had stolen his debit card. Upon arrival police found it wasn’t stolen and had been given back to the male. Police cleared the scene without incident.
• Police responded to a medical emergency resulting in a vehicle accident in the area of Sheetz.

Steve Daniel Kephart Jr. (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Curwensville man will be spending most of the rest of his life in prison for repeatedly having sex with a girl starting when she was 12 years old.

Steven Daniel Kephart, 34, pleaded guilty Wednesday to 52 counts of rape of a child, 308 counts of rape-forcible compulsion, 284 counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, three counts of photograph/film/depict on computer sex act-child, three counts of sexual abuse of children, 308 counts of corruption of minors, and 25 counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse. Judge Paul Cherry sentenced him to a total of 50 to 100 years in state prison.

Prior to sentencing, it was noted that Kephart underwent a Megan’s Law assessment and the report stated he was a sexually violent predator.

His attorney, Douglas Campbell, stipulated to the findings in the report, and no formal hearing was necessary. Cherry then declared him a sexually violent predator. Kephart will have to register his address under Megan’s Law for the rest of his life.

Kephart was originally charged with over 2,700 various counts of sexual abuse beginning in 2011 and continuing until January.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the investigation began after the victim’s boyfriend told her mother that the victim had confided in him that she was having a sexual relationship with Kephart. The victim’s mother contacted police.

When she was interviewed, the victim told police the assaults began when she was 12 years old. She said she was talking with him about an older boy that liked her and he stated “you know what older guys want” and started touching her chest. He stopped when she asked him to stop. Later he said “you’re getting to that age where you’re going to want to see what it looks like.” He pulled down his pants, exposing himself.

Over the years she told police, he had sex with her at various locations, including camp sites, in vehicles and in his garage. The assaults happened more frequently after she turned 13 years old when it happened one or two times a week. Later when she was involved more in school functions, it would only happen once or twice a month, she said. The most recent assault was in January in her car.

The victim said many of the acts occurred in a garage where he would use a bungee type strap to secure the door to prevent anyone from entering and interrupting them. Afterwards he would wipe himself on a sweatshirt or blue towel, she said.

Kephart also took naked photos of the girl or had her take naked photos of herself with his phone.

The victim was able to describe Kephart’s privates in detail that included specific identifying marks, the complaint states.

When Kephart was questioned according to the affidavit, he admitted to having sexual relations with the victim and to having naked photos of her on his cell phone. He said they had sex five or six times, but the actual number could be higher because he couldn’t remember. He admitted it happened mostly in the garage.

Police searched the garage where they found a blue towel, sweatshirts and additional clothing on the floor. They also searched the victim’s vehicle.

In another interview with police, Kephart began crying. He said he didn’t know how this had started. At first he didn’t agree that the assaults began when she was only 12 years old. But he did remember showing her his private area and talking about what boys wanted from girls. He thought he was doing “something right,” in educating the victim and that is when it all started.

Kephart revealed details, which confirmed the girl’s story that they had sex in the garage after he secured the door. He also admitted to having sex while camping, in the victim’s car, and in his vehicle.

He agreed he was in his late 20’s when the relationship started and the victim was 12 years old.  He stated “I’m stupid. I’m wrong. I’m dumb,” and “I wish I could rewind time.”

He told police he didn’t want to go to prison but realized that was where he was going. He also stated that he will die in prison for what he did, according to the affidavit.

Franklin William Wilson (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man accused of sexually assaulting several girls pleaded guilty Wednesday in Clearfield County Court.

Franklin William Wilson, 42, pleaded guilty to 12 counts of rape-forcible compulsion, 12 counts of aggravated indecent assault, 10 counts of statutory sexual assault and 12 counts of dissemination explicit sexual material to minors in one case and aggravated indecent assault in a second case. Judge Paul Cherry sentenced him to a total of 18 years to 60 years in state prison.

It was noted that a Megan’s Law assessment had been completed in this case. The defense stipulated to the findings in the report that determined Wilson is a sexually violent predator. He will have to register his address with law enforcement for the rest of his life.

These charges stem from incidents involving six different victims over a period of almost 15 years. Originally he was charged with over 1,200 various counts of sex crimes involving young girls.

An investigation into Wilson began in 2015 after he touched a 10-year-old girl inappropriately, exposed himself to her and showed her online pornography on his phone, according to the affidavit of probable cause. Afterwards, he told her not to tell her mother.

A search warrant was issued for the phone, which was seized and examined for evidence. A detective was able to find the images the girl described as well as numerous pornographic images. He had viewed hundreds of adult websites.

As the investigation continued, an officer found another report from Children & Youth Services involving Wilson. When this victim was interviewed, she stated that he abused her beginning when she was only six years old.

This abuse started with him touching her inappropriately while she was in the bathroom. Because of this, the girl was terrified of going into the bathroom and chose to urinate and defecate in a shed. She did not tell anyone of the abuse and this behavior led to her being sent away for counseling.

As the years passed, the abuse became more serious and violent. When she had friends around, this victim said Wilson would abuse them as well. He forced them to be involved in sexual acts or they were not permitted to have food or drinks. He also showed them pornography.

This victim said the abuse escalated when she was in fifth grade. He showed her pornography of a woman performing oral sex on a male, and then he forced her to do the same. As she got older, he had sex with her almost every single day.

She was frightened that he was going to hurt her or her family. She found bullets in her drawers, a knife in her dresser drawer, and razor blades on the headboard of her bed, she said.

Officers were able to contact the other girls the victim had named and interviewed them. One of them said he was perverted and inappropriate towards them. He would touch them as they slept and she was afraid to tell anyone because he threatened to kill them, she said.

The fourth victim said he showed them pornography and had sexual contact with them. A fifth girl said he made her touch the victim inappropriately as he made them watch pornography. She said she is terrified of Wilson. The final victim said he offered money to see her naked in the shower. He also made her and the others watch pornography before being able to use a four-wheeler.

Police attempted to set up an interview to discuss these accusations with Wilson, but he failed to show up for the interview or contact the investigating officer.

(WJAC-TV photo)

CLEARFIELD – The preliminary hearing was continued until Nov. 23 for a Houtzdale man accused of pointing a gun at emergency services workers who had responded to his residence.

Lewis Mikel Bumbarger, 66, of Houtzdale has been charged with two counts each of aggravated assault, simple assault and recklessly endangering another person. Bail has been set at $100,000.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Oct. 20 state police were dispatched after Bumbarger allegedly pointed a pistol at two emergency medical services workers with Houtzdale EMS at his Electric Avenue residence.

The incident occurred after Bumbarger expressed his dissatisfaction with the medical care that his son received. Upon arrival to the scene, state police took possession of the weapon Bumbarger used in the incident.

The first EMT told state police she was dispatched to the residence for a male who was suffering from chest pains and breathing difficulties. When she got to the patient, she noticed he was unresponsive and not breathing.

She ordered the ambulance driver to get the medical equipment from the ambulance. She checked for the patient’s pulse, and he didn’t have one.

She subsequently told Bumbarger that the only thing that could help his son was the drugs on the Advanced Life Support Unit that was responding from Clearfield.

Bumbarger became upset, went to the end table and got a small, black pistol out of the gun case. He allegedly pointed the gun at her. When she saw the gun, she took off running and once outside, she called 911 to request state police.

The ambulance driver told state police upon arrival he accompanied the EMT inside to check on the patient. Later he went back outside to get equipment and when he returned, the EMT was talking to Bumbarger, who went and got a gun. When he saw the gun, he took off running and the EMT was behind him.

When interviewed, Bumbarger told state police he was at home when his son collapsed and wasn’t breathing. He called 911. It took Houtzdale EMS 20 minutes to arrive, he said, and the EMT came in without any medical equipment.

When he asked why it wasn’t brought inside in the first place, she told him they didn’t think it would be needed. He then asked if they would try to revive his son, such as CPR, at which point the EMT told him there wasn’t anything to do, and drugs were needed from the Clearfield Ambulance.

According to Bumbarger, he pleaded with the EMT for a while but then got mad. He allegedly admitted to getting the gun and waving it around in the air. He denied pointing the gun at anyone, stating he only wanted to get the Houtzdale EMS people out of his apartment.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime between Sept. 1 and Wednesday at a Banion Road trailer in Bigler Township. During the incident, someone allegedly broke five windows by throwing rocks at the victim’s trailer. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.

Clearfield Borough

• State police were assisted with serving an arrest warrant on a Clearfield resident accused of robbery, aggravated assault and other related charges. The male was taken into custody without further incident, police said.
• Lawrence Township police were assisted with two intoxicated males near the Family Dollar Store on South Second Street.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft of a bicycle that was left outside the library.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about illegal dumping in the area of Flood Road.
• Clearfield Borough police were assisted with a warrant service.
• Police assisted with a disabled vehicle on the Clearfield Bypass.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of statutory sexual assault. It remains under investigation at this time, police said.
• Police responded for a report about an intoxicated person on South Second Street.
• Police received a traffic complaint that occurred on the Clearfield Bypass. However, officers were unable to locate the vehicle.
• Police received a report about an alleged aggravated indecent assault. It remains under investigation at this time, police said.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct at the Skate Station.
• Police received a report about a vehicle fire on Route 153.
• Police received a report about debris on River Road. The items were removed from the roadway, police said.

DUBOIS – Charges have been filed against an employee accused of removing a furnace from the property of the DuBois School District.

Kevin Lee Caine, 46, of DuBois, was charged with misdemeanor counts of theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property by the DuBois Area School Police on Oct. 27.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the assistant superintendent noticed the furnace was missing from the Highland School on Oct. 21 and requested an investigation.

An officer determined the furnace was purchased for the MIS Department’s new office plan at the district’s Old Maintenance Building in December of 2014.

The custodian confirmed the furnace had been stored there since early 2016. He stated that it had been in a locked storage area, but he noticed it was missing on Oct. 17 and reported it to his supervisor, Nate Kimberling. It was new and still in an unopened box, he said.

Kimberling advised the other maintenance workers that the furnace was missing and needed to be located. About two hours later, Caine approached him saying that he was the one who originally moved it from the Old Maintenance Building and placed it at the Highland School in the locked storage area.

He also stated that he moved it to the “dry storage at the stadium.” Even after a thorough search, the furnace was not found there.

On Oct. 21 Caine told Kimberling that he took the furnace without authorization to the Highland School and hooked it up in the loft. He led Kimberling and the officer to an older furnace that was a different model with a different serial number than the missing furnace.

A broader search was made of all the school buildings but the furnace could not be found.

On Oct. 25 a custodian was cleaning EJ Mansell Stadium when she encountered Caine outside the main doors near Hoover Avenue. The door had been propped open. He told her he was there to check on the furnace of the DuBois Food Pantry to see if it was working.

Later that day, Caine contacted Kimberling claiming it was in the old filter room at the stadium. This time when the area near the dry food storage area of the food pantry was checked, they found the furnace.

It was not in a box. It clearly had a dent, scratches and other marks, the complaint said. This room had been searched on Oct. 21 and the furnace was not there at that time.

When Caine was interviewed, he said he moved the furnace from the Highland School to the loft and then later took it over to the filter room at the stadium. Once he was confronted by the facts, he admitted that he had taken the new furnace to his father’s residence where he hooked it up as his heat source on Oct. 15.

After he was first questioned about the furnace, Caine moved it into the locked filter room, he told police.

Caine’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. during centralized court at District Judge Patrick Ford’s office.

CLEARFIELD – Clearfield County Domestic Relations periodically reports the names of people who are wanted on a bench warrant for owing back child support and/or court costs.

The following names are published in an effort to assist in the apprehension of people who owe past-due support payments. This list will continue to be published on a regular basis on GANT.

Anyone who may have information concerning any of the people listed is asked to call Clearfield County Domestic Relations at 814-765-5339, Extension 344. All calls will remain anonymous.

CLEARFIELD – A former Clearfield County man accused of sexual assault waived all charges to court at his preliminary hearing Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

Gary Lynn Wigfield, 61, of Butler has been charged with five counts each of aggravated indecent assault/person less than 13 years; indecent assault/person less than 13 years; and indecent exposure. Bail has been set at $100,000.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on July 11 state police at Clearfield received a report from Children & Youth Services after the victim who is now 22 years old told a therapist she was sexually abused by Wigfield when she was about four or five years old.

During an interview with state police, the victim said Wigfield would often take her and her sister who would have been 5 or 6 years old at the time for walks in the woods in the summertime.  She alleged he would put his hands down their pants.

She also alleged that at one point, he pulled his pants down and tried to get them to touch him. When he did this, she told him no because it felt wrong. The incidents occurred off-and-on for about a year, and Wigfield told them it was OK and they didn’t need to tell their mother, she told state police.

On July 25 a second victim who is now 23 years old reported her and her sister were in Wigfield’s truck and he covered them with a blanket. He allegedly put his hand down her pants while he was driving. When asked how often this occurred, she said “almost every time.”

One time Wigfield wanted her to get into the shower with him. He also had inappropriate sexual relations with her on occasions at his residence, according to the affidavit.

During the investigation, state police accessed information from a previous incident involving the second victim. While reviewing a report from 2000, state police learned a doctor examined her and determined she had injuries resulting in severe trauma. The second victim was reluctant to talk then but had indicated where she was injured on a picture for CYS.

Wigfield appeared Oct. 5 for an interview at the state police Butler barracks. He allegedly admitted to inappropriately touching the girls on several occasions but was unable to provide any exact dates. Until then, he hadn’t spoken to anyone about it and felt bad.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of retail theft that occurred Oct. 30 at the Dollar General Store in Osceola Mills. During the incident, a female entered the store and allegedly attempted to remove various grocery items. However, she was caught, state police said, and charges have been filed through the district court.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a traffic complaint that occurred on Turkey Hill.
• Police received a report about a traffic hazard on River Road.
• Police received a report about a psychological emergency in the Hill Street area.
• Police received a report about a vehicle that pulled out in front of a bus on Washington Avenue.
• Police were requested to conduct a welfare check in the area of Wal-Mart.
• Police received a report about an activated fire alarm at Fun Central.
• Police received a report about a suspicious male in the Willow Drive area.
• Police received a report about an oil spill on Carbon Mine Road.
• Police received a report about a domestic dispute on High Street.
• Police received a report about an alleged attempted burglary in the Country Club Road area.
• Police received a traffic complaint that occurred on the Rockton Mountain Highway.
• Police received a report about an incident of prowling in the Hillsdale area. However, it was determined to be Health Ride picking up a client.