Fugitive of the Week: Darin Cooley (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A wanted fugitive Darin Cooley, 34, of Patterson Avenue, DuBois, has been captured by authorities, according to District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr.

Cooley was added to the Clearfield County Fugitive of the Week list Oct. 10. He was wanted in two, separate cases for his failure to appear for court.

Cooley failed to appear at criminal call Sept. 1 and at a preliminary hearing Oct. 7, and warrants were subsequently issued for his arrest.

On April 13 Officer Casey Doherty of the DuBois City Police Department filed a criminal complaint, charging Cooley with firearms not to be carried without a license, F3.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on March 8 officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. During the stop, they observed the driver, who was identified as Cooley, as well as his passengers “acting suspicious.”

Additionally, officers observed items consistent with drug activity. Upon receiving permission to search the vehicle, they allegedly located a loaded pistol to be concealed within a bag.

A preliminary hearing was held May 6, at which time all charges were held to court. On Sept. 1 Cooley failed to appear at criminal call, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

In a separate case, Officer David Tracy of the DuBois City Police Department filed a criminal complaint, charging Cooley with possession of a controlled substance, M.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Sept. 2 officers were dispatched to a local residence for a report about an unwanted male. Upon arrival officers attempted to make contact with him with negative results.

Eventually, officers were able to make entry and located Cooley within the apartment. Cooley was subsequently searched, which allegedly resulted in the discovery of a controlled substance.

A preliminary hearing was held Oct. 7, at which time Cooley failed to appear, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

According to Shaw, on Oct. 18 Reynoldsville police received an anonymous tip regarding the location of Cooley. At that time, officers proceeded to the location and took Cooley into custody. Cooley is currently lodged in the Clearfield County Jail.

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.”

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.

CLEARFIELD – A Philipsburg man accused of having sexual relations with a girl waived the charges to court at his preliminary hearing Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

Michael George Bickle, 19, of Philipsburg has been charged with rape forcible compulsion; statutory sexual assault/four to eight years older; involuntary deviate sexual intercourse/person less than 16 years; aggravated indecent assault/person less than 16 years; and indecent assault/person  less than 16 years. Bail has been set at $50,000 unsecured.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Aug. 26 the victim’s mother alleged to state police that Bickle had sexual relations with her daughter who was 14 years old during the early-morning hours that day.

On Aug. 30 there was an interview conducted at the Clearfield County Children’s Advocacy Center. During the interview, the victim corroborated her mother’s report to state police.

On Oct. 25 Bickle appeared to the Clearfield barracks for an interview. He confessed to having sexual relations with the victim. He is also over four years older than the victim, according to the affidavit.

CLEARFIELD – A Woodland man who has been accused of crashing into a woman’s vehicle while driving drunk and injuring her will stand trial.

Richard Earl Harris IV, 20, of Woodland has been charged with aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI; three, different DUI offenses; and three summaries.

Harris waived his preliminary hearing on these charges Wednesday, and his case was sent to the Court of Common Pleas for further disposition.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, while on patrol Aug. 26 state police at Clearfield were dispatched to a crash on Bigler Road in Bradford Township.

Upon arrival to the scene, state police observed a Jeep Cherokee and a Ford Escape with heavy damage. Both were bearing Pennsylvania registration.

The driver of the Escape was seated in the driver’s seat, and she appeared to be in pain. Harris, the driver of the Jeep, was standing next to it. A trooper immediately approached him about the crash.

The trooper allegedly smelled a very strong odor of alcohol on Harris’ breath. He also observed Harris to have bloodshot, watery eyes and droopy eyelids.

Harris was staggering and appeared very uncoordinated and disoriented. His speech was slurred. The trooper asked for his driver’s license, insurance and registration but was only provided Harris’ license, according to the affidavit.

From his driver’s license, state police learned Harris’ name and age. He was then asked what happened and he told the trooper he crashed his Jeep into the Escape. He also allegedly admitted to consuming alcohol prior to driving.

Harris refused any type of field sobriety tests. He told state police he was in trouble and he knew he was going to jail. He then proceeded to ask the trooper to take him to jail.

State police placed Harris under arrest for DUI and transported him to the Clearfield Penn Highlands Hospital for a blood test. He agreed to the blood test and after that he was taken to the county jail.

Harris refused to give the trooper any name of a person he could be released to.

When interviewed, the driver of the Escape told state police she’d been driving north on Bigler Road when the Jeep crashed into her vehicle at a high rate of speed. She tried to move out of the way to avoid the Jeep; however, she didn’t have enough time.

On Aug. 27 state police went to the Bigler Minit Mart and an employee provided surveillance of Harris driving recklessly in the parking lot and then exiting at a high rate of speed.

Although it didn’t show the actual crash, state police observed a dust cloud emerging from the crash scene. After that, the Jeep went out of view.

When the trooper was processing Harris for release that same day, he asked several times about the condition of the driver whose vehicle he’d crashed into the previous d ay.

On Oct. 8 state police received the blood test results, and Harris’ BAC at the time of the incident was .189 percent.

The driver of the Escape was interviewed a second time and told state police that she’d sustained serious injuries in the crash. She had a fractured right wrist, which severely limited her abilities to complete basic tasks.

She also sustained a fractured left knee, which has left her confined to a wheelchair. She said prior to the crash, her health was very good for someone who was 71 years old. She currently remains under the care of a doctor for her injuries.

State police at Clearfield

• State police reported a traffic collision occurred Saturday on the Shawville-Croft Highway in Goshen Township. Franklin D. Clark of Olanta was traveling northbound; at the same time, Charlotte J. McBride of Clearfield was negotiating a left turn into a driveway. Clark’s vehicle struck that driven by McBride in the rear. All occupants were wearing their seatbelts; two people were transported to the Clearfield Penn Highlands Hospital, state police said. Towing services, Clearfield EMS and the Lecontes Mills Fire Department assisted at the scene. Clark was cited f or the collision.
• State police reported a single-vehicle crash Saturday on the Curwensville-Grampian Highway in Pike Township. MacKenzie Hamilton of Curwensville was traveling westbound and negotiating a left-hand curve at an unsafe speed for conditions. She lost control of her vehicle, which crossed over the centerline and impacted a guiderail on the right berm. Hamilton was wearing her seatbelt at the time; her vehicle was towed from the scene. Hamilton was cited for the crash.
• State police reported a crash occurred Saturday at the intersection of Chestnut and Main streets in Coalport Borough. A vehicle failed to stop and impacted the front of another vehicle. Shortly after impact, both vehicles came to a rest.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Saturday on Walnut Street in Philipsburg. During the incident, someone allegedly stole eight feet of chain from the Chester Hill Hose Company.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Thursday on Third Street in Houtzdale. During the incident, someone allegedly pushed over a part of a wooden pallet wall; several pallets were lying on the ground. 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 burglary that occurred sometime between Oct. 27 and Oct. 30 on Carson Hill Road in Brady Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victims’ detached garage and removed a deer cart. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at DuBois at 814-371-4652.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred sometime Oct. 12-14 on Main Street in Falls Creek Borough. During the incident, a DuBois man allegedly subjected the victim to unwanted physical contact. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police responded to a report about a possible unresponsive male Oct. 19 at the Rockton Fire Company in Union Township. Upon investigation troopers allegedly found him in possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges were filed through the district court.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of retail theft that occurred Friday at Weis Market in Philipsburg Borough. Upon arrival troopers found that an Allport woman allegedly attempted to take groceries from the store without paying for them. She was cited through the district court.
• State police received a report about an incident of retail theft that occurred Friday at Weis Market in Philipsburg Borough. Upon arrival troopers found that a Philipsburg woman allegedly attempted to take groceries from the store without paying for them. She was cited through the district court.
• State police received a report about an incident of retail theft that occurred Friday at Weis Market in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, an Osceola Mills woman was allegedly caught removing items from the store without paying for them. She was charged through the district court.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred between Oct. 4 and Friday at the Store-All Storage Co., on Industrial Park Road in Rose Township. The actor remains unknown, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.
• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Friday on Route 36 in Newburg Borough. Further, a Curwensville female was stopped and allegedly determined to have driven after consuming alcohol. Charges are currently pending blood test results, state police said.
• State police reported a hit-and-run crash occurred Friday at the Wal-Mart in Young Township. It occurred while the victim was shopping at several stores within the area. Her vehicle, a 1998 Chevrolet Silverado, sustained damage to the lower portion of its bed and passenger’s side. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.
• State police received a report about an alleged incident of burglary that occurred Friday on Spruce Street in Burnside Borough. Upon investigation troopers determined a Burnside male was responsible for the crime, and he was subsequently charged in the incident.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Oct. 28 at a field across from Blose 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 retail theft that occurred Friday at the Wal-Mart store in Young Township. During the incident, a couple allegedly stole a Monster energy drink and four packs of Pokeman cards valued at approximately $36.20. Both were cited for retail theft through the district court.

State police at Ridgway

• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Saturday at the intersection of Dagus Mines and Skyline roads in Fox Township. A Kersey man was stopped and allegedly determined to be under the influence of alcohol. He was transported to Penn Highlands Elk for blood tests. Charges are currently pending the blood test results, state police said.
• On Thursday state police took into custody a fugitive from justice, Thomas Zaczkowski, 41, who had a full extradition warrant through the Minnesota State Department of Corrections. He was charged and arraigned through the district court.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a vehicle accident on North Second Street. There weren’t any injuries reported at the scene, police said.
• Police received a report about a domestic dispute on North Fourth Street. However, police found those involved were not fighting.
• Police received a report about a domestic dispute on East 10^th It was resolved following police arrival at the scene.
• Police received a report about a suspicious male near East 10^th However, there wasn’t any contact made with the male.
• Police were requested to respond to Weaver Street for a welfare check.
• Police responded to a fire alarm on North Second Street. Upon arrival it was found to be a false alarm.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a traffic violation on Martin Street Extension where vehicles are speeding. Extra patrols will be provided in the area.
• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief. During the incident, someone allegedly switched campaign signs from one neighbor’s yard to another.
• Police received a report about a bad check from a local business. It remains under investigation at this time, police said.
• Police received a parking complaint from a Hyde resident.
• Police received a report about a motor vehicle accident along Log Cabin Road.
• Police received a report about a motor vehicle accident on the Old Erie Pike.

HARRISBURG — Attorney General Bruce R. Beemer today announced criminal charges have been filed against 36 people accused of distributing or possessing illegal drugs in Blair County.

A year-long investigation, which culminated in today’s charges, focused on street- to mid-level dealers accused of distributing heroin, cocaine, bath salts, psilocybin mushrooms, marijuana and prescription narcotics.

Agents from the Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigation partnered with investigators from the Blair County Drug Task Force and the Altoona Police Department on the joint investigation. Law enforcement officials used various tools, including surveillance techniques and undercover purchases, as they worked to file charges.

Over the course of the investigation, investigators made a series of controlled purchases utilizing confidential informants and undercover officers/agents. Controlled purchases were made in the City of Altoona and the surrounding municipalities. The investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected.

Beemer thanked the following agencies for their participation in the investigation: the Altoona Police Department, the Blair County Sheriff’s Department, the Blair County District Attorney’s office, the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, the Blair County Drug Task Force and Pennsylvania State Police.

Additionally, Beemer also thanked Operation Our Town for its support. Operation Our Town is an organization in Blair County with a mission of supporting the fight against drugs and violent crime. Individuals with drug information may contact the Operation Our Town “Push Out the Pusher” hotline at 814-693-3020.

The defendants will be preliminarily arraigned before Blair County Magisterial District Judge Paula Aigner and will be prosecuted by Blair County District Attorney Richard Consiglio’s office.

The following is a list of individuals charged today, their last known addresses and the charges they face:

Rashad Reid, 29, of the 2300 block of Parkhill Drive, Pittsburgh, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (heroin).

William Jones, 35, of the 900 block of Southside Avenue, Pittsburgh, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Steven Johnson, 58, of the 2900 block of Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Danielle Pheasant, 27, of the 1000 block of 17th Avenue, Altoona, is charged with five counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (cocaine/vyvanse/hydrocodone).

Brandi Pace, 33, of the 2800 block of Maple Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (morphine/lorazepam).

Echo Geist, 36, of the 700 block of fourth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with four counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Daniel Kramer, 29, of the 700 block of Fourth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with four counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Dana Sklinar, 33, of the 200 block of Crescent Drive, Windber, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (heroin).

Jocelyn Rogers, 20, of the 1100 block of 20th Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (heroin).

Logan Leutenegger, 23, of the 1100 block of West Loop Road, Hollidaysburg, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (cocaine).

Scott Vipond, 38, of the 800 block of First Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (suboxone).

Patty Hilton, 43, of the 1300 block of Second Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (suboxone).

Mitchell Peterman, 29, of the 2200 block of Third Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (mushrooms).

Dale Davis, 40, of the 800 block of Fifth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (mushrooms).

Ashley Mitchell, 31, of the 200 block of Somerset Avenue, Windber, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility, as well as one count of criminal conspiracy (Xanax).

Angelina Jackson, 39, of the 100 block of Roaring Spring Commons, Roaring Spring, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility, as well as one count of criminal conspiracy (Xanax).

Adam Etchells, 31, of the 1700 of Newry Lane, Duncansville, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility, as well as one count of criminal conspiracy (cocaine/mushrooms).

Johanna Bergey, 29, of the 1700 block of Fifth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (cocaine).

Forever Trich, 20, of the 200 block of Sixth Street, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (marijuana/oxycodone).

Teresa Tilson, 49, of the 1100 block of Fifth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (hydrocodone).

John Snarski III, 43, of the 1100 block of 12th Avenue, Altoona, is charged with three counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (suboxone/mushrooms).

Shawn Clark, 26, of the 1200 block of 20th Street, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (heroin).

Thomas Ickes, 48, of the 200 block of Wicker Street, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (bath salts).

Martin Caporuscio, 43, of the 1600 block of 20th Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (methylphenidate).

Mitchell Stevens, 19, of the 700 block of Beaumont Drive, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility (marijuana).

Calina Etchison, 35, of the 2100 block of 11th Avenue, Altoona, is charged with four counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility, as well as two counts of criminal conspiracy (crack cocaine).

Kayla Reyes, 22, of Staten Island, NY, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (crack cocaine).

Jeremiah Morgan, 36, of the 800 block of Sixth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

William Snyder II, 33, of the 600 block of Eighth Ave., Altoona is charged with four counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Gregory Henderson, 35, of the 5900 block of Meade Street, McKeesport, Allegheny County, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, fleeing or attempting to elude police officer and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Philip Way, 34, of the 1000 block of Rosewood Drive, Altoona, is charged with seven counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, and six counts of criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Lynorris Wilson, 35, of the 1500 block of 10th Street, Altoona, is charged with seven counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility, as well as four counts of criminal conspiracy (heroin/cocaine).

Munson Wolfe III, of the 500 block of Second Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy, in addition to one count each of theft and receiving stolen property (heroin).

Dione Boynton, 35, of the 100 block of Second Avenue, Altoona, is charged with one count each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

John Haddock Jr., 48, of the 900 block of Lexington Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

James Morgan, 35, of the 1900 block of Fourth Avenue, Altoona, is charged with two counts each of possession with intent to deliver or delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal conspiracy (heroin).

Individuals who have witnessed a drug deal in their neighborhood or suspect illegal drug activity where they live or work can send an anonymous tip to the Office of Attorney General by texting PADRUGS + YOUR TIP to 847411. Tips may also be submitted electronically here.

DUBOIS – A DuBois man accused of making methamphetamine after an incident in November of 2015 will stand trial.

Jason Yusnukis, 26, is charged with risking a catastrophe, possession of red phosphorus with intent to manufacture a controlled substance, two counts of recklessly endangering another person, manufacture/delivery/possession with intent to manufacture/deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and operating a methamphetamine lab.

He waived his right to a preliminary hearing Friday during centralized court at District Judge Pat Ford’s office. His case now moves on to the Court of Common Pleas. He is in the Clearfield County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail.

The charges stem from a report of possible drug activity on Quarry Avenue in DuBois, Nov. 21, 2015.  A resident told police there was a smell of sulfur in the air at her home.

She explained her son put items in a duffel bag, and took a smoking bucket before fleeing. The residents were instructed to leave the home because of the potential hazards from the chemicals, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

It was believed he fled toward Giant Eagle, and he was described as wearing a dark sweatshirt. As an officer checked out some wet footprints on the road, he saw a duffel bag, which appeared to be smoking, lying in a ditch.

Beside it was a black sweatshirt. The footprints led to another residence on Quarry Avenue. The phone Yusnukis was using was checked and it was discovered that he had contacted someone who lived there.

Officers knocked at this residence where a woman answered. She was asked where Yusnukis was, and she directed them to him. He was taken into custody.

When a clandestine lab team pulled items from the duffel bag, they found an active gas generator in a 20-ounce bottle, a jug containing hydrochloric acid, a bottle with sodium hydroxide, tubing, residue, meth, allergy medication, a cold pack and other ingredients for making methamphetamine.

They also discovered a debit card with Jason Yusnukis’ name on it.

Yusnukis is one of the many people charged in “Operation Ice Storm” in March. “Operation Ice Storm” involved the arrests of 30 people in March for their connection with a drug ring that was selling methamphetamine and heroin in the area, according to previously published reports.

The arrests 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.

CLEARFIELD – A 15-year-old boy pleaded guilty for his part in an armed robbery during a session of sentencing court Monday.

The juvenile who is being charged as an adult, pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal conspiracy/robbery, criminal conspiracy/possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal conspiracy/possession of firearm by minor, and possession of firearm by minor.

He was sentenced by President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to six months to one year in jail and three years consecutive probation.

Prior to sentencing, Ammerman stated that at one point in time, the juvenile and both his parents were in the county jail. He added that this teen is currently the “worst juvenile case we have.”

Curtis Irwin, attorney for the juvenile, explained that there is an appeal in this case to decertify him as an adult and put his case in the juvenile system. In Pennsylvania juveniles charged with a violent crime can be prosecuted as an adult.

His mother asked to address the court. She said the isolation that her son is kept in at the county jail due to his age is “harder time than at any jail” and added it was tougher than being in state prison.

His grandmother also spoke, saying she has been there for him and she would continue to do so. She explained that she had previously asked a psychiatrist to put him into treatment. “Please, please help me to help him again,” she said to Ammerman.

The charges stem from an incident July 7 in Clearfield Borough when this juvenile (1) and another juvenile (2) robbed a teen at gun point.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the victim arrived at the police station where he reported that he and two others were near the river around Buck’s Pizza after previously meeting up with the two juveniles.

While they were at the river, he heard the second juvenile cock an automatic pistol with a laser sight. He could see the laser pointed at his chest by the second juvenile. He ordered the victim to give him everything he had.

After the victim turned over his bag to him, the second juvenile allegedly advised them not to follow or he would shoot them.

The victim called his father to tell him what happened. After the father picked them up, they saw the two juveniles near East Market and South Third streets. The father told them to return the bag.

Juvenile 1 retrieved the bag from the other juvenile, removed a bottle of cough syrup and then gave it to the father.

One of the other people with the victim corroborated his story of the robbery.

When the second juvenile was questioned with his father on hand, he said he got a message from the victim asking if he wanted to buy cough syrup. This cough syrup contained codeine, which is a controlled substance.

Arrangements were made for juvenile 2 to buy the cough syrup for $40. They met with the others near Buck’s Pizza, he said. He claimed he was just joking when he pointed the laser at the victim.

He said that the other juvenile took the bag. When they met with the victim’s father, juvenile 2 stated the other juvenile removed the cough syrup from the bag before he returned it to them.

The second juvenile reported that the gun was provided to him by juvenile 1 who told him he had removed it from a vehicle.

In his interview with the police, juvenile 1 said he met with juvenile 2 at the old Leonard Grade School before they walked to a business on Bridge Street where they met the victim and two other juveniles. They then agreed to walk to the rear of Buck’s Pizza.

He said the plan was to walk there and buy the cough syrup from the victim. As they were walking, juvenile 1 said juvenile 2 told him they were going to rob the others and showed him the butt of the weapon. Juvenile 1 said he told juvenile 2 that he couldn’t do that because he was on probation. Juvenile 1 said he walked away from them.

He met up again with the other juvenile near CVS and they walked on until they were confronted by the victim’s father. Juvenile 1 admitted he took the cough syrup out of the bag before he set it on the sidewalk, he said.

Fugitive of the Week: Matthew Kennedy (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. has announced Clearfield County’s Fugitive of the Week. He identified the fugitive as Matthew Kennedy, 30, of Fourth Street, Clearfield.

Kennedy is wanted for failure to appear at a preliminary hearing Nov. 2, at which time a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On Sept. 26 Officer Sergio Caltagarone of the Clearfield Borough Police Department filed a criminal complaint, charging Kennedy with driving under the influence of a controlled substance, M; use/possession of drug paraphernalia, M; and public drunkenness, S.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on June 18 officers were on routine patrol when they went to check on a vehicle. It had been observed in a parking lot for an extended period of time.

When officers approached the vehicle, they observed the operator, later identified as Kennedy, to be asleep in the driver’s seat and an odor of marijuana was allegedly emanating from it.

Further contact with Kennedy revealed that he was under the influence of controlled substances. Additionally, officers were able to observe drug paraphernalia within the vehicle, according to the affidavit.

A preliminary hearing was held Nov. 2, at which time Kennedy failed to appear, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Kennedy is described as a Caucasian male standing 5 feet, 6 inches tall. He has brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with knowledge of Kennedy’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

• On Monday state police reported a silver-colored, 10K Endo Ring with a single diamond was located inside the Coins to Cash coin exchange at Northwest Savings Bank in Coalport. Anyone missing the ring is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft by unlawful taking that occurred Sunday or Monday on Third Street in Woodward Township. During the incident, someone allegedly took two mannequins that belonged to the victim. 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 a Protection from Abuse order violation that occurred Monday at a Falls Creek residence. During the incident, a DuBois man allegedly sent a text message to the victim, and it contained information not permitted by an active PFA. The man was taken into custody and placed in the Jefferson County Jail, state police said.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Oct. 25 on Vo Tech Road in Winslow Township. During the incident, someone allegedly harassed the victim by communications. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of underage drinking that occurred Saturday on Tower Lane in Brady Township. Upon arrival to the party, state police found three, underage males who had allegedly consumed alcohol. Charges were filed through the district court, state police said.
• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Sunday on South Pancoast Road in Winslow Township. Further, troopers arrived at the scene, where a vehicle was stuck off the roadway and determined the juvenile driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Charges are currently pending blood test results, state police said.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred Sunday or Monday on the Tyrone Pike in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, someone gained access to the building belonging to Penelec. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Philipsburg at 814-342-3370.
• State police received a report about an incident of motor vehicle theft that occurred Monday on Enterprise Drive in Rush Township. During the incident, someone allegedly stole the victim’s blue 2000 Chevrolet Tracker. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Philipsburg at 814-342-3370.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a minor vehicle accident on West Front Street. No injuries were reported as a result, police said.
• Police received a report about an accident involving a bicycle. No injuries were reported as a result, police said.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person on Nichols Street. Upon arrival police searched the area with negative contact.
• Police received a report about a domestic dispute on East Cherry Street. Upon investigation police found it was verbal in nature.
• Police received a report about a loud vehicle on Nichols Street. However, it was gone prior to police arrival to the scene.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a possible theft at Hotel Heights.
• Police received a report that was determined to be a civil issue.
• Police received a request to check the welfare of a child in Hyde.
• Police received a report about a hit-and-run on Supercenter Drive.
• Police arrested a Curwensville male for allegedly driving under the influence after he was observed committing several traffic violations.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about deceptive business practices that occurred March 12, 2007 at Lakelawn Memorial Park in Winslow Township. According to the report, the victim signed a contract purchasing a bronze marker and granite base. She paid a total of $2,355, and as of this date, neither the grave marker nor stone has been ordered or placed. However, state police stated, “Prosecution is declined in this case due to the fact that the incident is beyond the five-year statute of limitations.”

Clearfield Borough

• Police are investigating an alleged incident of harassment that occurred along South Third Street.
• Police assisted a motorist who had locked their keys inside of their vehicle. Further, police were able to gain entry into the vehicle.
• Police assisted Domestic Relations personnel with taking a male into custody along Daisy Street.
• Police received a report about a person who had left the hospital and who was having mental health issues. However, police searched the area with negative contact.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a driving complaint that occurred on Route 879 near Wolf Run. However, police were unable to locate the vehicle.
• Police received a report about vandalism at the Clearfield County Career & Technology Center.
• Police received a dumping complaint that occurred on Chester Street.
• Police were requested to assist the Pennsylvania State Police with a felony traffic stop.
• Police received a report about a prowler at a Willow Drive residence.
• Police received a report about a domestic situation.

CLEARFIELD – A DuBois man pleaded guilty Tuesday for his involvement with a home invasion and robbery in June of 2015.

Joseph Michael Mazza, an inmate of the Jefferson County Jail, pleaded guilty to robbery, criminal conspiracy/robbery, firearms not to be carried without a license and possession of firearm prohibited.

He was sentenced by President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to four to eight years in state prison.

These charges stem from an incident in Kittanning when Mazza and two other people entered a home demanding money and drugs that they believed had been stolen from them.

Prior to sentencing, Mazza commented that he thought it was “a fair plea,” adding that he was appreciative of it. It was noted that he had worked with prosecutors investigating the case by testifying in a preliminary hearing for his co-defendant, Brandon Patino.

According to court documents, police had been tipped off that Patino was selling drugs out of his West Long Avenue apartment in DuBois. A search warrant was executed on the residence, but Patino was not at home. Officers found guns, $15,000 in cash and items used to package drugs.

During Patino’s preliminary hearing in March, Mazza testified that he knew Patino was receiving meth from California in the mail and selling it. He wasn’t sure how much he was getting but said he thought it was a lot. He stated the drugs were coming in voodoo dolls that were hollow.

Not long after the raid at his apartment, Patino called Mazza asking for help.  “He wanted to get money back from a girl who robbed him,” Mazza said.

The two men put bandanas on their faces and went into the home. Patino hit a “kid” that was in the kitchen when they entered. They held the occupants at gun point, Mazza said. Patino hit the girl who supposedly robbed him as he was trying to figure out where the drugs were.

Karli Chambers also entered the residence. She pulled the phone wires out and yelled at the girl, he said.

Mazza said he was nervous and at one point the gun went off. They dispersed, he said, with Chambers grabbing the cell phones, a wallet and a purse.

Patino gave him more than two bricks of heroin for his help.

Mazza also pleaded guilty to possession of firearm prohibited and possession of a controlled substance in a second case. He was sentenced to a concurrent period of four to eight years in state prison.

According to that affidavit, a probation officer discovered Mazza had guns in his possession. After police executed a search warrant on his residence, they found an assault rifle, numerous glass pipes, bongs, over 100 grams of marijuana, 32.30 grams of cocaine, knives, brass knuckles, a stun gun and more drug paraphernalia.

In a third case, Mazza pleaded guilty to receiving stolen property. For this he was given a concurrent sentence of one to two years in prison.

In July Patino, 34, pleaded guilty to robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, former convict not to possess firearms, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and criminal conspiracy. He was sentenced by Ammerman to a total of eight to 16 years in state prison.

For the complete story from Patino’s preliminary hearing, click here.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an incident of simple assault that occurred Tuesday in the area of Route 322/Dutchtown Road in Winslow Township. During the incident, a Reynoldsville man allegedly struck the victim, which injured the victim’s face. Then, as she was getting out of a stationary vehicle, he struck her, and it caused her to fall and hit the back of her head, state police said.
• State police received a report about an incident of assault that occurred Wednesday on Sykesville School Road in Winslow Township. During the incident, a state parole agent was attempting to apprehend a male, who was identified as Dustin Douthit, on a warrant. Douthit gained access to his vehicle and then fled the scene nearly striking the agent. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Douthit is asked to contact state police at DuBois at 814-371-4652.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Tuesday on Mallard Road in Rush Township. Further, an inspection mechanic discovered that someone had allegedly stuffed paper towels in a gas tank. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Nov. 5 on the Philipsburg-Bigler Highway in Decatur Township. Further, state police stopped a Hawk Run woman for a traffic violation and determined she was allegedly driving while under the influence of alcohol. Charges are currently pending through the district court.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Wednesday on Kane Street in Jones Township. During the incident, someone allegedly tossed a brick through a garage window. After that, they fled the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Ridgway at 814-776-6136.

Sandy Township

• On Monday a 24-year-old Dixon Avenue man reported being harassed by his 23-year-old ex-girlfriend. He stated she continually drives by his home yelling at him.  Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Monday Wal-Mart employees reported a man and woman were inside a van in the parking lot, and they were engaged in a heated argument. Officers made contact with the couple and handled the situation without incident.
• On Monday a DuBois woman reported that while she was traveling on South Eighth Street, she saw a juvenile who was sitting at the intersection at Chestnut Avenue and she felt it was strange. Officers checked the area and could not locate the juvenile.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at Staples on Monday.
• On Tuesday a DuBois man reported that he’d sold a couch through the newspaper and the buyer sent him a check for more than the sale price. He was told to cash the check and send the excess back. The man recognized this as a scam and did not cash the check, police said.
• On Tuesday unknown actors allegedly broke into a vehicle – owned by a 28-year-old Reynoldsville man- that was parked on the Johnson Motors lot. The actors caused severe damage to the vehicle and removed a stereo that was inside it, according to the report.  Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at a Treasure Lake residence on Tuesday.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a traffic violation on Route 879.
• Police received a report about an incident of trespassing in Hillsdale.
• Police responded to a two-vehicle accident on Daisy Street Extension.

DUBOIS – A fourth person has been charged in connection with a burglary during which over $68,000 of property including guns was stolen in June.

Savannah Marie Johnston, 19, DuBois, is charged with a felony count of receiving stolen property and misdemeanor tampering with/fabricating physical evidence and false reports. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for Dec. 2.

The charges stem from a burglary between June 28 and June 29 in DuBois when Travis Roy Gonzales, 31, DuBois, Torry David Gonzales, 33, also of DuBois, and Rikki Lee Stephens, 21, allegedly broke into the residence taking guns, safes, DVD players, coins and other property.

According to the affidavit in her co-defendant’s cases, Johnston told police Stephens and Travis Gonzalez borrowed her vehicle the night of the burglary. They returned to a Spring Avenue home with a box of items.

When Johnston asked where the items came from, Stephens told her they went into a house. Travis and Torry Gonzales left again and returned with food, jewelry and two guns wrapped in a towel, Johnston told police.

According to Johnston’s affidavit, after her original interview with police, she admitted to having stolen property in her vehicle. She also said Torry Gonzalez had the gun with him and transported it to her storage unit. Later she called another man to come and get the gun from the unit.

When police spoke with this man, he said he knew where Johnston put the stolen gun and would retrieve it. He came back in about 45 minutes with a rifle that he turned over to police. It was confirmed to be one of the guns missing from the residence.

Torry and Travis Gonzalez are charged with criminal conspiracy/burglary, criminal trespass, theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, possession of firearm prohibited, make repairs/sell offensive weapon, access device fraud and criminal mischief. They waived their rights to preliminary hearings Sept. 2. Both remain incarcerated in lieu of $10,000 monetary bail.

Stephens, currently an inmate of the jail, is facing similar charges. She waived her right to a hearing Aug. 12.  Her bail is $40,000.

For more information on this crime and how it led to a police stand-off at a Spring Avenue home, click here.

DUBOIS – Two people are facing drug charges because heroin was allegedly found in their vehicle after it left a known “drug house.”

Jason Paul Davis, 35, DuBois, is charged by DuBois City police with a felony count of manufacture/delivery/possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and a misdemeanor count of intentional possession of a controlled substance and Danielle M. Siple, 28, Brockway, is charged with misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both are scheduled for preliminary hearings Dec. 2.

The charges stem from an incident Aug. 12 in DuBois after police investigated a traffic violation by Davis as the vehicle left a known “drug house.” Both Davis and his passenger, Siple were nervous as they spoke to an officer. Davis was issued a citation for the traffic violation and then asked if he had a minute to talk. He agreed, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

The officer asked him if there was anything in the vehicle he should know about such as drugs, guns or a large sum of money. Davis said there wasn’t. The officer then asked if he could search the vehicle and Davis said he could. Both of the occupants of the vehicle were asked to stand at the back of the truck.

When asked again if he would find something, Davis responded that the officer was going to find some bags. Police said the search uncovered eight stamp bags of heroin stamped with “DONALD TRUMP” in a plastic ziplock bag in the center console.

Under the cup holder, the officer found nine more stamp bags with the word “SCORPION” on them. Inside a purse, the officer found drug paraphernalia and two stamp bags of heroin.

Siple told police she purchased the two stamp bags in her purse from Davis.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police are continuing their investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of children that occurred in 2013 – 2014 at a private location in Rush Township. During the timeframe, a Philipsburg girl and a Munson boy transmitted sexually explicit images to each other, state police said in the report.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Thursday on Philips Street in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, a Philipsburg boy allegedly threatened to strike the victim, a Philipsburg girl, in her facial area.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of theft by deception that occurred between March 31 and Thursday on Peach Street in Jay Township. During the incident, a known male was paid money to perform work; however, he allegedly hasn’t performed any work for the victim on her residence. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

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 loitering and prowling that occurred Friday on Liberty Street in Beccaria Township. During the incident, a male was allegedly standing outside the victim’s residence without any legitimate purpose. The victim was walking home and saw the male who then fled the scene. He was a Caucasian male standing 5 feet, 10 inches tall with a thin build and he was around 25 years old. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at DuBois

• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Saturday on South Brady Street in DuBois City. Troopers stopped a DuBois man for several summary traffic violations. While speaking with him, they allegedly detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath. He was subsequently arrested for DUI and other traffic charges, which are pending blood test results.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Saturday in the 4000 block of Allens Mills in Washington Township. According to the report, a Reynoldsville woman and the victim have been involved in a past property dispute. Since then the victim had his property surveyed and was adjusting surveillance video on his property when the woman allegedly shouted a threatening statement at him. She was subsequently cited for the incident through the district court.

State police at Ridgway

• State police reported a DUI incident that occurred Sunday at the intersection of Church and Centre streets in St. Marys. Troopers stopped a St. Marys woman for a traffic violation and she was allegedly found to be under the influence. She was taken to the hospital for blood testing, and charges are currently pending at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Sunday in the 1200 block of the Million Dollar Highway in Fox Township. During the incident, someone allegedly struck the victim’s mailbox and then fled the scene.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to a report about a Protection from Abuse violation. However, it was unfounded, police said.
• Police responded to a report about stolen property. Upon police arrival, it was determined the property was not stolen.
• Police responded to a report about an intoxicated male in the area of Spruce Street. He was subsequently taken into custody.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft from a motor vehicle. It remains under investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about alleged criminal mischief to a vehicle on Daisy Street.
• Police responded to a vehicle accident on North Second Street. No injuries were reported at the scene, police said.
• Police responded to a domestic dispute on Ninth Street. It was resolved following police arrival at the scene.

BROOKVILLE (EYT) – A Reynoldsville man is accused of aggravated assault and related charges stemming from an incident that occurred in Brookville, Jefferson County.

According to court documents, the Brookville Borough Police Department filed criminal charges against 61-year-old Edward M. Buffington of Reynoldsville.

According to a criminal complaint, on Oct. 28 Brookville police officers were dispatched to Geist Way for an assault that occurred earlier in the evening.

Police interviewed a woman who said she was at a Brookville laundromat and her boyfriend, Edward Buffington, went over to a bar and was drinking. Buffington later returned from the bar and came up to the car that she was sitting in and started to pound on the window.

He opened the door and allegedly pulled her out of the vehicle. She ran into the laundromat and was trying to get away from him, and he allegedly threatened her, “If you don’t get back in the car, I’m going to kick your [expletive].”

He then allegedly caught her, threw her to the ground, and kicked her in the side of the head approximately 15 times and stepped on her face, mainly her nose, the complaint states.

Brookville police officers observed that the woman had swelling and red marks around her ear and the entire length of her nose was red and scratched. She also had a fat lip, according to the complaint.

The victim then stated that Buffington took her cell phone, smashed it, and told her that “if she reported him, he was going to burn down her trailer with her in it,” the complaint continues.

The victim was then able to get away from Buffington; she ran to an area convenience store and contacted her friend who came over and picked her up.

The victim also told police that “Buffington came to her house a couple of days ago with a gun (that) she was trying to get back from him that was stolen from her friends.

Buffington pointed the gun at her head and told her that he was going to kill her if she said another thing about the gun,” according to the complaint.

Buffington was at his residence on DuBois Street and taken into custody by DuBois City police.

He was transported to Brookville Hospital for clearance for jail and then transported to Jefferson County Jail.

Buffington was arraigned at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 29, on the following charges:

• Aggravated Assault, Felony 1
• Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Misdemeanor 2
• Disorderly Conduct Engage in Fighting, Misdemeanor 3
• Harassment – Subject Other to Physical Contact, Summary
• Terroristic Threats with Intent to Terrorize Another, Misdemeanor 1
• Criminal Mischief – Damage Property, Misdemeanor 3

Unable to post $75,000.00 monetary bail, he was lodged in the Jefferson County Jail.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. Nov. 16 with District Magistrate Gregory M. Bazylak presiding.

Robert Philbert Myers (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – The trial got under way Monday in Clearfield County Court for a Madera man who has been accused of forcing a young girl to have sex with him over a three-year period beginning in 2012.

Robert Philbert Myers, 36, of Madera is standing trial on charges, which include 20 counts each of rape forcible compulsion; statutory sexual assault-11 years older; involuntary deviate sexual intercourse-person less than 16 years of age; and indecent assault-person less than 16 years of age.

Clearfield County District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. is presenting the case on behalf of the commonwealth. Myers is being represented by defense attorneys Carl Zwick and Leanne Nedza. Judge Paul E. Cherry is presiding over the trial, which is scheduled through Friday.

In his opening statements, Shaw provided a thumbnail sketch of the case. He said Myers is on trial for allegedly raping and sexually assaulting a young girl over a three-year period, beginning in July of 2012 and ending in July of 2014.

He said Myers started out making inappropriate comments toward the victim when she was about 12 or 13 years old. It then progressed to him having inappropriate contact with her and eventually forcing her to have sex with him.

According to Shaw, Myers not only psychologically and emotionally coerced the victim to have sex with him, but also not to tell anyone. He warned her that no one would believe her, and she’d be in more trouble than him.

When Zwick opened to the jury, he said the district attorney had gone over the “disgusting allegations.” He said if they were wondering how he could defend Myers, it was because he’d been falsely accused and didn’t commit any of those “heinous and disgusting crimes.”

He continued on, telling jurors that it was all made up and to pay close attention for inconsistences in the “complainant’s” testimony during the trial. Zwick also reminded them that Myers is innocent until proven guilty, which is the commonwealth’s burden.

The victim, now 18, testified that Myers forced her to have sex with him in a Madera residence and in his tractor-trailer, which had a sleeper cab. He also forced her to perform sex acts on him, she said.

She told jurors that Myers was very persistent anytime she refused and she was afraid of him due to his size and him becoming angry. She said when he would ask her for sex, she would eventually agree to it.

She said that at times he would help her get out of trouble with her mother for being caught smoking or not make her pay him for her car payment in exchange for sex.

After sexually assaulting her, she said he would tell her not to tell anyone because she would get into more trouble than him, as well as that no one would believe a child over an adult.

Shaw also presented the victim with Facebook messages, which she validated as being from Myers, asking her if “the weenie wash was open.” After she refused to have sex, he sent another message, claiming that “it’s not rape. It’s love.”

When asked by Shaw, she said when the assaults first began they were occurring once or twice a month. But as she got older, they were occurring more frequently and sometimes two or three times a week.

The victim told jurors she did not tell anyone the assaults were occurring out of fear and embarrassment. But she eventually told her mother, and they reported it at the state police Clearfield barracks.

Under cross-examination, Nedza pressed the victim about inconsistencies in her statements throughout the investigation as to where she was raped by Myers for the first time.

The victim said that she recalled the first three happened close together, and she struggled to put everything in exact order.

When asked why some details of the alleged assaults weren’t disclosed until later interviews, she said each interviewer asked her different questions and some details she didn’t think to include until asked about them as the interview process progressed for the investigation.

She also explained a lot was going through her mind and it was a very stressful time for her.

Nedza then presented the victim with a series of Facebook posts in which she talked about Myers in a positive way. But under cross and re-direct, she said it was her way of trying to keep her life normal and to block out what was happening to her.

The trial will resume at 9 a.m. Tuesday before Cherry in Courtroom 2.