CLEARFIELD – Two people charged with breaking into a DuBois home and taking more than $68,000 worth of items pleaded guilty Monday in Clearfield County Court.

Travis Roy Gonzales, 32, formerly of DuBois, and currently an inmate of state prison, pleaded guilty to burglary and access device fraud. He was sentenced by Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to 29 months to five years in state prison.

Rikki Lee Stephens, 22, currently an inmate of the county jail, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft by unlawful taking. She was sentenced to seven months to 14 months in the county jail and two years consecutive probation.

Each of them was ordered to pay almost $8,900 in restitution.

Prior to sentencing, Gonzales’s attorney, Joshua Maines, noted that the restitution was split three ways among Gonzales, Stephens and Torry David Gonzales, 33, who is also charged with this crime.

Recently charges have been filed against a fourth person, Savannah Johnston, 19, DuBois, who is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Jan. 13.

He asked that the restitution be re-calculated to include Johnston should her charges move forward. Ammerman noted that Maines can file a motion to adjust the restitution amounts later.

Before she was sentenced, Stephens apologized for her “actions” and explained she has had a lot of time to think while in jail for the last four months. She now wants to change her life. Ammerman warned her to stay away from drugs and straighten up.

Charges against Torry Gonzales, 34, were moved into the Court of Common Pleas after he waived his preliminary hearing in September.

The trio is accused of breaking into a DuBois home sometime between June 28 and June 29 and removing more than $68,000 worth of property. This crime led police to a Spring Avenue residence where they apprehended Torry Gonzales.

When police knocked on the door of the residence, it was shut in an officer’s face, according to reports. Because it was believed other suspects were inside, police evacuated the area and waited for a search warrant. When police entered the home, it was discovered to be empty.      

According to the affidavit of probable cause, an officer spotted Gonzales outside the Spring Avenue home on June 30. Because he was wanted on a warrant in addition to being a suspect for the burglary, he was approached.

Gonzales was bending half his body inside a vehicle to avoid the officer. The officer requested he show his hands, but he did not comply and kept bending over the back seat of the vehicle. He was then placed under arrest.

When the vehicle was searched, officers said they found a sawed off shotgun of the same type stolen in the burglary, where Gonzales had been reaching. In the front seat, they found a backpack with items missing from the burglarized home.

Additional items including two safes were recovered from the DuBois Manor Motel in a room rented by Gonzales, police said. A search warrant served on luggage owned by Travis Gonzales uncovered more items taken in the crime.

In an interview with police, Stephens admitted to being in the motel room where she had seen the stolen items.

Johnston told police Stephens and Travis Gonzales borrowed her vehicle the night of the burglary. They returned to the Spring Avenue home with a box of items. When she 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 said.

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.

Among the things stolen were the victim’s credit cards. Police were able to review security footage of the transactions on the cards on June 30. In one of these, officers saw Torry and Travis Gonzales purchasing items at Martin’s Grocery Store and in other footage Travis Gonzales and Stephens using the card at the Dollar General Store in Brookville.

In a separate case, Travis Gonzales pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance. For this, he was given one year concurrent probation.

Stephens pleaded guilty in two additional cases. In the first case, she was sentenced to 30 days to one year in jail for possession of a controlled substance and in the second, she received the same sentence for theft by unlawful taking. These sentences will run concurrent with her burglary sentence.

CLEARFIELD- A state trooper acquitted of aggravated assault and terroristic threats after a recent trial was sentenced for a lesser charge Tuesday in Clearfield County Court.

After the October trial, the jury did find Terry Drew Jordan, 47, of Clearfield guilty of simple assault.

On Tuesday Judge Fredric J. Ammerman sentenced him to 168 days (time served) to one year in jail and one year consecutive probation.

He must undergo a drug/alcohol assessment and complete anger management classes. It was noted this is a domestic violence case with Jordan ordered to have no contact with the victim, other than court appearances for divorce proceedings. He was fined $200 plus costs.

The charges stem from an incident at Jordan’s home April 21. His wife reported that he assaulted her, held a gun to her head and threatened to kill her.

During the trial, Jordan testified that they were having a fight over his affair. He said she was the aggressor and he was only acting in self-defense.

The victim suffered a right rib fracture, multiple contusions, trauma to her abdomen, trauma to her back and had scratches on her neck.

Jordan was incarcerated from the time of the incident until after the trial.

For the complete story on the trial, click here.

Norman Wothman (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – An inmate involved in a riot at SCI Houtzdale refused to appear in court for his sentencing hearing Tuesday during sentencing court in Clearfield County.

The behavior of Norman Wothman, 52, currently an inmate of state prison, during his trial was also unusual. He announced that he was pleading guilty to all charges while he was testifying in his own trial in July.

On Tuesday he had his standby attorney, Joseph Ryan, running back and forth from a holding cell at the courthouse to the courtroom with messages for Judge Fredric J. Ammerman.

At first Wothman stated he did not want to be in the courtroom for sentencing because he didn’t want to hear District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr.’s argument.

It was determined that Wothman should be colloquied to put his waiver of appearance for sentencing on the record. Ryan returned to advise Wothman of this.

In a few minutes, he reported that not only did Wothman not want to be in court for a colloquy, he also did not want to sign a waiver of his appearance either. But after Ryan talked to Wothman again, he did agree to come into the courtroom.

Ammerman asked Wothman if it was alright to do the colloquy, but he didn’t respond at all. After a few minutes, he stated “I don’t care about the charges or any other charges. I will just plead guilty. I am done.”

He went on to say that he only took his case to trial because he “just wanted to tell the truth.”  He made other comments of “I’m no longer afraid of the consequences” and “I’m cool with it.” After he was asked if he wanted Ryan to represent him, Wothman stated “I don’t care what you do.”

Wothman was taken out again in order for Shaw to state his suggestions for Wothman’s sentence.

Shaw commented that the riot at SCI Houtzdale took place shortly after the riots in Baltimore and had racial overtones. He reminded the judge of the video evidence that showed how badly the corrections officers were assaulted.

Wothman hit an officer that was trying to restore order “so hard his hat flew off,” Shaw said. The officers were permanently injured and it was “fortunate an officer is not dead” because that is how violent it was, he said.

Shaw asked Ammerman to send a message to other inmates who could assault corrections officers. Wothman is currently serving a sentence of 70 to 140 years and what he received wouldn’t actually change how long he’ll be in prison, but a consecutive sentence would tell inmates that this behavior is not acceptable, he said.

Wothman was then returned to the courtroom to hear his sentence. Wothman pleaded guilty to three counts each of aggravated assault, criminal conspiracy/aggravated assault, assault by prisoner, criminal conspiracy/assault by prisoner, as well as one count each of riot, criminal conspiracy/riot, simple assault, criminal conspiracy/simple assault, disorderly conduct, criminal conspiracy/disorderly conduct and harassment.

Ammerman sentenced Wothman to a total of 35 to 70 years in state prison with this sentence running consecutive to Wothman’s current sentence.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred between Nov. 22 and Tuesday in Penn Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victim’s garage and removed 30 antique signs, four collectible Pennsylvania license plates and three antique gas pump globes. 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 theft that occurred between Nov. 12 and Tuesday on Williams Road in Penn Township. During the incident, someone allegedly gained access to the victim’s property and removed a red, wooden farm trailer. 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 simple assault/harassment that occurred Tuesday on Brown Street in Reynoldsville Borough. Upon arrival troopers found everyone who was involved was intoxicated and that a Reynoldsville man had allegedly struck the victim in the face with a closed fist. State police say he was restrained by an unknown man, and it’s believed that he was struck in the head with a beer bottle. Charges will be filed against the Reynoldsville man, and the incident remains under investigation.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police receive a report about an incident of aggravated assault that occurred Monday on Kepp Road in Rush Township. During the incident, a Philipsburg man engaged in a verbal argument that turned physical with the victim. He allegedly head-butted and then choked the victim who was also holding a three-month-old baby at the time. He was taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering and harassment. He is currently detained in the Centre County Prison to await arraignment. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of access device fraud that occurred Monday on Phoenix Road in Rush Township. During the incident, someone allegedly used the victim’s credit card to make fraudulent purchases, totaling approximately $200. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred sometime between March 1 and Aug. 23 on Westside Road in Black Moshannon State Park in Rush Township. During the incident, someone allegedly removed a leaf blower from a camp. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Philipsburg at 814-342-3370.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a possible altercation along Spruce Street. Upon arrival police found it was verbal in nature, and the female who was involved left the residence.
• Police located a male who was in the park after hours. Further, police advised him that the park closes at 9:30 p.m.
• Police assisted the fire department along East Market Street after a reported fire. However, it was unfounded.
• Police received a report about a juvenile who was outside a residence after getting off the school bus. Police found the adult who was picking them up was running late; she arrived and took custody of the juvenile.
• Police received a report about a dog running loose on Nichols Street. Later, the owner called back police and advised the dog had returned home.
• Police are investigating an alleged theft from a motor vehicle along East Market Street. During the incident, police say that someone removed an item from the vehicle while it was parked along the street.
• Police assisted a motorist who had locked their keys inside their vehicle along South Second Street. Police were able to gain entry into the vehicle.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a disabled vehicle in the area of the Clearfield-Curwensville Highway.
• Police received a report about a lost dog in the area of Tractor Supply.
• Police received a report from a resident about a phone scam. According to the report, the victim was called by a “foreign” male who claimed to be with the Department of Homeland Security. He was advised of winning a package through an American Sweepstakes. Police would like to remind residents not to provide personal information by phone.
• Police assisted state police at Punxsutawney in attempting to locate a male. Township officers searched the area but were unable to locate the male.
• Police received a report about a verbal altercation in the Country Club area. It was handled by police at the scene.
• Police receive a report about an alleged incident of disorderly conduct on Park Avenue Extension.
• Police received a noise complaint that occurred on Hill Street. It was listed as unfounded.

CLEARFIELD – A Morrisdale woman will be spending time in jail for taking over $19,000 from a school band booster group.

Kori Sue Plotner, 39, pleaded guilty during sentencing court Tuesday to a misdemeanor count of theft by unlawful taking.

President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman sentenced her to serve 60 days to one year in jail and one year consecutive probation. She was fined $200 plus costs. Prior to sentencing, she paid $19,108 in restitution.

Her attorney, John Sughrue, noted this was an open plea and he understood that the commonwealth was going to remain silent about the sentence because they were satisfied with probation in this case.

When District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. was questioned about this, he responded that the plea agreement dropped the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. He said he was OK with Sughrue asking the judge for probation, but he would prefer she serve 90 days in jail.

Assistant District Attorney Ben Baker also stated he would like to have her do some jail time, adding this case was the same as an employee theft case that often receives a 90-day sentence.

After he announced the sentence, Ammerman commented that he imposed the 60-day sentence because of the nature of the thefts.

A representative from the band boosters addressed the court, explaining how hard it is to raise money. She called Plotner “selfish” but hoped that things could turn around for her.

Ammerman asked if the students had to cut activities because of the theft. The representative said they were going to go to Disney World last year, but weren’t able to do it.

They are going to make the trip this school year, she said due to “the kindness of the community” and the insurance money. Even with this support, she stated the students will have to pay for part of the trip themselves.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, other members of the group became suspicious of Plotner, who was the treasurer for the music boosters club in October of 2015.

At a meeting Oct. 13, 2015, Plotner stated the balance of their checking account was $13,391.59, then changed it to $14,343.41 and then up to $16,893.

When they checked the account, it had a balance of only $3,266.86. Normally by that time of the year, the account had close to $20,000 in it.

Usually they are able to raise about $35,000 in two years to fund the trip for all band members, the complaint said.

The reports submitted by Plotner to the group officers on a monthly basis conflicted with the reports Plotner gave to the bank.

When Plotner was interviewed by police, she admitted that she did take funds from the club, but she wasn’t sure how much she actually had taken. She stated she believed she started taking money in September of 2014 during football season.

Joseph J. Komisar (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – An Osceola Mills man accused of threatening two women and state troopers with a running chainsaw waived the charges to court at his preliminary hearing Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

Joseph J. Komisar, 53, of Osceola Mills has been charged with two counts each of terroristic threats, simple assault and recklessly endangering another person and then criminal mischief, harassment and disorderly conduct. For this, his bail has been set at $50,000 monetary.

Komisar has also been charged with two counts each of aggravated assault, terroristic threats and simple assault and then one count of harassment. For this, his bail has been set at $100,000 monetary.

According to the affidavits of probable cause, on Nov. 20 state police were dispatched to a domestic disturbance in the 100 block of Trcziyulny Street in Osceola Mills. A woman had requested assistance from state police, as she’d asked Komisar to leave, but he’d refused to do so.

She told troopers Komisar started yelling at her and then shoved her. After he was outside the residence, he allegedly started pounding on windows and doors and yelled threats at her and a friend who was also there.

He then left but came back with a chainsaw and made entry by pushing in a window. While holding the running chainsaw, Komisar allegedly began yelling that he was going to kill everyone inside the residence. Both women fled and sought refuge with a neighbor.

State police made contact with the woman a few residences away from hers. Troopers then attempted to make contact with Komisar and knocked on the door.  He approached after being asked to exit but was observed starting a chainsaw. He then allegedly threatened to kill the two troopers.

When Komisar struck and broke a portion of the glass in the door and the window blind, troopers backed away from the residence and requested assistance. While waiting, Komisar again threatened to harm troopers from an upstairs window and he was operating the chainsaw, according to the affidavits.

The affidavit also stated that Komisar used the chainsaw to cause damage to the walls and window blinds inside of the bedroom.

When back-up arrived at the scene, troopers attempted to make contact with Komisar again. He would not engage with troopers other than to tell them to leave. He had secured all of the doors to the residence.

The woman provided troopers with a key and entry was made through the kitchen area. He was observed upstairs at the top of the steps in possession of a small knife. After several minutes, he put the knife on the ground, came down the steps and was taken into custody.

After being placed in a patrol unit, Komisar became irate and started yelling at troopers. A trooper entered the back seat for transport per policy, at which time Komisar threatened and then spit on him. Troopers placed a spit mask on Komisar, and he was transported to county jail without incident.

State police at Clearfield

• State police reported a crash occurred Tuesday on Route 153/State Park Road in Pine Township. According to state police, a DuBois man drove his vehicle off the right side of the roadway and over an embankment. It caused his vehicle to overturn. He was taken to the DuBois Penn Highlands Hospital for medical treatment. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Monday in the 1100 block of South Eagle Valley Road in Taylor Township. Upon arrival troopers found a couple had allegedly been engaged in a physical domestic dispute. Both were cited for harassment through the district court, state police said.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Tuesday on the Port Matilda Highway in Rush Township. During the incident, a Philipsburg man allegedly stole the victim’s prescription pills.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal trespass that occurred Tuesday on property located off of Route 219 in Ridgway Township. During the incident, a Ridgway man allegedly entered the victim’s property without permission. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred Wednesday on Keller Road in Fox Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victim’s residence and stole a Siberian husky, a dog crate and dog food bowl. State police are continuing their investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Ridgway barracks at 814-776-6136.
• State police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred Monday on Powers Lane in Benezette Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victim’s residence by breaking the glass in the front door. At this time, state police say it’s unknown what items have been removed. State police are continuing their investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Ridgway barracks at 814-776-6136.

CLEARFIELD – A 17year-old boy pleaded guilty for his part in an armed robbery Tuesday during plea and sentencing court.

The juvenile who is being charged as an adult, pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy/robbery, robbery, firearms not to be carried 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, it was noted that he will be turning 18 in a few days. After that he can be put in with the general population. Both this defendant and his co-defendant who is only 15 years old have been kept in solitary confinement at the county jail.

The charges stem from an incident July 7 in Clearfield Borough when the 15-year-old juvenile (1) and the 17-year-old juvenile (2) robbed a teen at gun point.

During motions court on Tuesday, a motion to put the 15-year-old on house arrest was discussed. In November, he received the same sentence and his mother is concerned about him spending so much time alone.

His attorney, Curtis Irwin, also told the court that the boy is having medical issues. His mother told Ammerman that something at the jail is causing a rash that he’s had the entire time he has been incarcerated.

“He needs to see a real doctor,” she said. She is also worried about his mental health because he has no window in his cell. She is planning on attending a prison board meeting on Thursday to protest.

Ammerman said he will talk to the warden about this situation.

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 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 Street and South Third Street. 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.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about a motor vehicle theft that occurred between Dec. 10, 2015 and Dec. 24, 2015 from Fremont Avenue, Portage, Cambria County. During the incident, someone allegedly stole a Coalport woman’s Toyota Scion while she was incarcerated in the Cambria County Jail. State police are continuing their investigation at this time, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Clearfield barracks at 814-857-3800.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an incident of trespass that occurred Dec. 3 on leased property near Log Cabin Road in Polk Township. During the incident, a Fairchance, Pa., man allegedly traveled onto the victim’s property after viewing signage that informed him not to do so.
• State police received a report about an incident of burglary and theft that occurred Dec. 1 at a Dutchtown Road residence in Winslow Township. During the incident, someone allegedly removed items from the victim’s residence, and state police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of cruelty to animals that occurred between Dec. 2 and Dec. 6 in the area of Greenhouse Lane in Rush Township. During the incident, someone allegedly shot the victim’s dog after it got loose from their residence. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime Thursday or Friday on Skyline Drive in Fox Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged the victim’s mailbox. State police are continuing their investigation at this time, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Ridgway barracks at 814-776-6136.

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.

FOX TOWNSHIP – Four people have been accused of assaulting and resisting state troopers during a motor vehicle crash investigation Friday in Fox Township, reported state police at Ridgway.

According to the incident report, state police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Toby Road near Thompson Hill Road. Upon arrival to the scene, three troopers encountered five people, all of whom were exhibiting signs of intoxication.

State police say four individuals became “uncooperative and violent.” During the course of the investigation, David A. Sarantoulias, 20, of Kersey allegedly assaulted one trooper.

After that others joined him and a struggle allegedly ensued between the troopers and four people who had occupied the vehicle. They resisted arrest and attempted to escape from the troopers.

Three troopers were injured during the altercation; two required medical treatment at Penn Highlands Elk, according to the incident report.

The four people involved in the altercation were charged by state police with aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, criminal mischief and underage consumption.

The adults, Sarantoulias and Treavus M. Seawright, 18, of Kersey were arraigned in district court and lodged in the Elk County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. Charges are currently pending against the others in juvenile court, state police say.

JONES TOWNSHIP – A male suspect has been accused of brandishing a weapon during a disturbance Friday in Jones Township, reported state police at Ridgway.

According to the incident report, state police investigated a disturbance on Naval Hollow Road. It occurred when a known suspect entered a camp, and he engaged in a verbal argument with multiple people.

After the suspect was asked to leave the camp, he allegedly pulled a handgun from a jacket pocket. State police say he pointed it at the victim while standing in close proximity. He then fled the scene, and there weren’t any injuries reported.

State police are continuing their investigation, and criminal charges are currently pending at this time. State police were assisted by the St. Marys City Police Department.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime Friday or Saturday at the intersection of Glendale Boulevard and Dillion Road in Beccaria Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged a township stop sign and post; damage is estimated at $100. Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Clearfield at 814-857-3800.

State police at DuBois

• State police reported a DUI that occurred Saturday on West Long Avenue in DuBois City. During the incident, a DuBois man was stopped for driving without his vehicle’s headlights on. 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 traffic violations, which are pending blood test results.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred sometime Dec. 7-8 at the Goodwill Store in Winslow Township. During the incident, a known woman allegedly removed a black bag of donated items from beside the store’s drop-off box. Anyone with information 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 burglary that occurred Friday on Hannah Hill Road in Taylor Township. During the incident, a Tyrone man allegedly gained access into an open garage belonging to the victim and removed several items. State police say he loaded the items into a vehicle and left the scene. Later he was apprehended on Fire Tower Road and Route 350; burglary and related charges were filed through the district court.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Dec. 7 on Martin Street in Rush Township. During the incident, a Wallaceton man allegedly stole the victim’s cell phone.
• State police received a report about an incident of criminal trespass that occurred Sunday at the St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Philipsburg. During the incident, a Philipsburg woman showed up at the church and allegedly caused a disturbance after she was advised by the church’s priest and troopers that she was not to be there due to past disturbances. She was cited through the district court.

State police at Ridgway

• State police reported a DUI crash Friday at the intersection of Toby and Thompson Hill roads in Fox Township. Upon investigation troopers found a Kersey man had been in control of a vehicle while allegedly under the influence of alcohol. He was taken to Penn Highlands Elk for a blood draw, and charges are pending those results.

Clearfield Borough

• Police assisted Lawrence Township police with an overdose in Glen Richey.
• Police responded to North Third Street for a report about a juvenile who was allegedly under the influence. Police say the juvenile was also found with drug paraphernalia.
• Police responded to multiple, minor accidents Saturday evening. There weren’t any injuries reported in the accidents.
• Police responded to Duke Street for a male who was allegedly intoxicated and wanted to fight. Police say he was located and arrested for his actions.
• Police assisted Lawrence Township police with a possible burglary on Mount Joy Road.
• Police received a report from the VFW that someone had passed bad checks.
• Police located two males who were allegedly intoxicated while walking near CVS Pharmacy. Police say one male was bleeding and in need of medical treatment. Both were arrested for public drunkenness as a result of the incident.
• Police responded to a minor motor vehicle accident in the area of Turnpike Avenue and Nichols Street. The vehicle was towed from the scene, and there weren’t any injuries reported as a result, police say.
• Police responded to South Second Street for a report that someone had driven through a yard.
• Police responded to a South Second Street residence for a male who was allegedly trespassing. The incident remains under investigation at this time.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a burglar alarm in the area of Park Avenue Extension. It was an accidental alarm due to an entry of a wrong pass code.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person in the area of South Second Street.
• Police received a report about a phone scam in the area of Leonard Street.
• Police received a report about a possible trespassing incident in the area of Clarendon Avenue. Upon arrival at the scene, police determined it was a civil matter.
• Police received a report about a domestic disturbance in the area of Mount Joy Road.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of criminal mischief in Hillsdale.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person in the Hillsdale area.
• Police responded to the Sapp Bros. Truck Stop to conduct a welfare check.
• Police received a report about suspicious activity in the area of 21^st
• Police received several reports about vehicles sliding into the ditch on the Krebs Highway.
• Police responded to a domestic disturbance on Log Cabin Road.
• Police responded to a single-vehicle accident on the Krebs Highway. A vehicle slid off the roadway and struck a monument, causing severe damage to both. No injuries were reported as a result of the accident, police say.
• Police received a report about the alleged theft of money and medication. The incident is pending investigation.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident in the area of River Road.
• Police received a report about the alleged theft of an oil filter at the Sapp Bros. Truck Stop. Upon arrival police watched the surveillance and questioned the suspect; the incident was determined to be unfounded.
• Police responded to an alleged domestic disturbance in the area of Log Cabin Road. A female was taken into custody by police, and transported to county jail. Charges were filed against her, police say.
• Police responded to a domestic disturbance in the area of Park Avenue Extension. It was handled at the scene, police say.

Fugitive of the Week: Claudia Shirey (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. has announced Clearfield County’s Fugitive of the Week.  

He identified the fugitive as Claudia Shirey, 20, of Bush Road, Rochester Mills. She is wanted for failure to appear at Sentencing Court on Dec. 6, at which time a warrant was issued for her arrest.  

On Aug. 15 Cpl. Orlando Prosper of the DuBois City Police Department filed a criminal complaint against Shirey. She was charged with possession of a controlled substance, M; retail theft, M1; and receiving stolen property, M3.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Aug. 6 officers were dispatched to a local business for a report of a theft. Upon arrival officers detained one person who had fled on foot and made contact with Shirey.

At this time, Shirey was allegedly found to be in possession of stolen merchandise from the store as well as a bag. After receiving permission to search the bag, officers located several controlled substances.

Shirey told police that she did not have prescriptions for the controlled substances.

A preliminary hearing was held Sept. 16, at which time all charges were held to court. On Dec. 6 Shirey failed to appear at Sentencing Court, and a warrant was issued for her arrest.

Shirey is described as a Caucasian female who stands 5 feet tall. She has red hair and green eyes.

Anyone with knowledge of Shirey’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 theft by deception that occurred Dec. 6 on Anderson Creek Road in Pine Township. During the incident, a known male suspect accepted a check from the victim but allegedly changed its amount from $200 to $300. State police say he subsequently cashed the check and received $300; the incident remains under investigation at this time.

State police at DuBois

• On Tuesday state troopers stopped a Bradford man for a traffic violation on Oklahoma Salem Road in Sandy Township. During the stop, troopers observed drug paraphernalia in plain view, and a search found he was allegedly in possession of drugs and paraphernalia. His passenger, a DuBois woman, was also allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges are to be filed through the district court.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police reported a drug incident that occurred Dec. 7 on Centre and Railroad streets in Rush Township. Following a traffic stop, state police allegedly found a male to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges will be filed through the district court.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment Saturday on Water Street in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, two known people allegedly engaged in a physical domestic dispute. Both were cited for the incident as a result.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of harassment Monday at a South State Street residence in Timblin Borough. During the incident, a male and female were arguing over each other’s pain medication. The female was allegedly shoved by the male who then left the residence. While he was leaving, the female allegedly shoved a second male for being in agreement with the first male. No injuries were reported, according to state police, and charges will be filed through the district court.

State police at Ridgway

• On Nov. 23 four state troopers investigated an incident on Cleveland Street in Jay Township. During the course of their investigation, a 41-year-old Weedville man, James T. Barnum, allegedly subjected the troopers to terroristic threats and aggravated assault. No further information was provided in the report. Barnum has been charged by state police with aggravated assault, terroristic threats, possessing instruments of crime, simple assault and disorderly conduct.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a disorder in the area of Williams Road and located a person who was allegedly under the influence. They were taken to county jail.
• Police responded to Bigler Road after a report about a truck that had hit low-hanging wires.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run crash on Plaza Drive. The vehicle was located by police, and citations are pending against its operator.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on Route 879. No injuries were reported as a result, and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft in the area of Arrowhead Way.
• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred on a school bus.

DuBois City

• On Friday police were dispatched to a report of a disturbance at an apartment on West Long Avenue. The female called police, saying that her boyfriend had beaten someone up. Upon police arrival, the female and her boyfriend were both found to be highly intoxicated, and a third person stated that there hadn’t been an assault. Police asked those involved to “turn in for the night.”
• On Saturday police received a report about an alleged theft on Green Glen Avenue. The caller told police that two packages were stolen from her porch after receiving confirmation of delivery. The victim could not provide any possible suspects, and the incident remains under investigation at this time.
• Police were dispatched to DuBois Logistics for a non-reportable vehicle accident Saturday in the loading dock. According to police, a 2004 Western Starr truck was backed into the loading dock when it was struck by a 2012 Kenworth backing into the adjacent loading dock. The drivers exchanged information and police cleared without incident.
• Police would like to remind local residents to monitor delivery of packages to their residences, especially during the holiday season. If you are not able to be there for the delivery, police suggest asking a friend or neighbor to check for it. Also, if possible, police recommend having packages delivered to your place of employment or office.
• On Sunday police were dispatched to a report of a disturbance on South Jared Street. According to police, an argument occurred between two tenants and it had to be resolved in reference to an open door. It was settled without incident.
• On Sunday police were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance on Spring Avenue. According to police, a third-party caller believed her daughter was being abused by her boyfriend. Officers made contact with the male outside of the residence, and the female refused to come out or to open the door. The property owner granted police entry, and the female was located hiding in the attic. Police say she was found to have two warrants for her arrest and will appear before the magistrate.  Police also noted there weren’t any signs of or reports of violence made by either party.
• Police received a report about alleged criminal mischief to an automobile Sunday at Auto Zone located on Liberty Boulevard. The caller told police he had a punctured tire, and he believed that a suspicious male who had been outside earlier may have caused the damage. The male was gone prior to the police arrival, and the caller was unable to identify him.
• On Sunday police were dispatched to the intersection of South State Street and West Long Avenue for a report of suspicious activity. The caller stated that a male and female were rummaging through a Chevrolet Cavalier parked on South State Street. They were last reported to be walking toward St. Catherine’s Church. Officers made contact with the vehicle’s owner and his girlfriend who matched the description provided by the caller. He told police they had been in the vehicle earlier and there wasn’t any issue.
• Police were dispatched for a hit-and-run crash Sunday at the intersection of Olive Avenue and McLloyd Terrace. Lynn Smiley was traveling east in her GMC Jimmy when it was struck by a mid-sized truck that was possibly a white Toyota Tacoma traveling south on McLloyd Terrace. Police say the truck caused moderate damage to the Jimmy, the driver failed to stop and continued south onto Thompson Alley toward Shaffer Avenue. The driver and passenger of the Jimmy were not injured in the crash. Police ask anyone with information to contact the DuBois City police at 814-765-1533.

CLEARFIELD – A former Reynoldsville man accused of not delivering grave markers to his clients has signed a plea agreement in his four most recent cases.

Edmund A. Grenier Jr., 71, an inmate of state prison, is charged with 30 counts each of deceptive business practice, theft by deception and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds in one case, 24 counts each of deceptive business practices, theft by deception and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds in a second case and in two additional cases he is facing one count each of these same charges.

During a session of jury selection recently, Grenier agreed to plead guilty in all four cases. He is scheduled for sentencing Jan. 24, according to court documents.

Over the past few years, Grenier has been charged several different times in both Clearfield County for Crown Crest Cemetery and in Jefferson County for Lakelawn Memorial Park for his failure to deliver items, such as grave site markers, granite bases, bronze memorial plaques, bronze vases and bronze scrolls to be installed in the cemeteries, according to published reports.

In January of 2015, he pleaded guilty in Clearfield County on two, separate cases to felony counts of deceptive business practice, theft by failure to make required disposition of funds and theft by deception. Prior to that on Aug. 27, 2013, he pleaded guilty to deceptive business practices.

He pleaded guilty to two cases with the same charges in Jefferson County.

Grenier is currently serving a state prison sentence of 20 to 40 years from a probation violation in Jefferson County that he was given in September of 2015.

According to online court records, in July of 2015 Jefferson County Judge John Foradora ordered that all accounts in the name of Lakelawn Memorial Park or Crown Crest Memorial Park be closed and reopened by attorney Jeffrey M. Gordon. The cemeteries were to be sold to pay the debts of the business.

Grenier’s ex-wife, Brenda Grenier, 57, is charged with 30 counts each of deceptive or fraudulent business practices, theft by deception, and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds and two counts of theft by unlawful taking in one case and with one count each of deceptive business practices, theft by deception and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds in two other cases.

Brenda Grenier was identified as the secretary and treasurer of Grenier Enterprises Inc. as well as Crown Crest Cemeteries. In June of 2014, she withdrew $7,577.55 from the business account. She admitted she took the funds because Edmund Grenier had stopped paying her a regular salary from the business. Brenda Grenier has not been associated with the day to day operation or maintenance of the business since 2011, according to the criminal complaint.

A bench warrant was issued for her after she failed to appear for a preliminary hearing in August of 2015. She was taken into custody in March and was extradited from Virginia. She remains incarcerated in the Clearfield County Jail in lieu of a total of $75,000 bail. A motion to reduce her bail in October was denied by Judge Paul Cherry, according to a previous report.

Editor’s Note: This GANT News story contains graphic content.

CLEARFIELD – A Curwensville couple has been accused of making sexual videos with a dog, according to court paperwork filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Richard Ireland.

Rachael Alexis Harris, 19, of Curwensville was charged Tuesday by state police at Clearfield with four counts of produce/present/direct obscene performance; three counts each of criminal attempt-sexual intercourse with animal and conspiracy-sexual intercourse with animal; and four counts of cruelty to animals.

Corey D. Harris, 24, also of Curwensville was charged with four counts of produce/present/direct obscene performance and three counts of conspiracy-cruelty to animals. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled in the case for 11:30 a.m. Jan. 11, 2017 during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail.

According to the affidavits of probable cause, on Nov. 28 state police were dispatched to the Clearfield County SPCA where a woman had brought a camera containing videos of Rachael Harris allegedly performing sexual acts with a dog. The camera belonged to Rachael Harris and her husband, Corey.

At the SPCA, a trooper observed some of the sexual contents on the camera and determined a crime had been committed. The trooper stopped viewing the contents, collected the camera and logged it into evidence at the Clearfield barracks until receiving a search warrant.

On Nov. 30 the trooper obtained a search warrant through Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling. According to the affidavit, he downloaded four videos depicting Rachael Harris attempting to have sexual intercourse with the dog.

On Dec. 6 a relative went to the Clearfield barracks to watch the videos. She was able to identify that Corey Harris was recording the videos.

State police at DuBois

• State police responded to a crash Tuesday on Interstate 80 westbound near mile-marker 88 in Washington Township. A Brookville man was traveling in the left lane when he lost control of his Chevrolet Cavalier. This caused it to cross into the right lane and strike the northern guiderails. Upon impact, his vehicle re-entered the roadway and was struck by a freightliner, causing severe damage to his vehicle. He was taken to Penn Highlands DuBois where he succumbed to his injuries. State police were assisted by the Falls Creek Fire Department, DuSan Ambulance, PennDOT and towing services.

State police at Philipsburg

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Dec. 1-2 on Fourth Street in Philipsburg Borough. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged a school bus, and the investigation is ongoing at this time.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about an alleged retail theft incident from a local business. Upon arrival, police took custody of a male who was found to have an active arrest warrant.  He was transported to the jail on the warrant and charges of retail theft.
• Police had a wallet turned in that was located along South Third Street. Police located its owner and returned it.
• Police received a parking complaint that occurred at a North Second Street business. A parking ticket was issued for the violation.
• Police served several warrants at a residence along Pennsylvania Avenue.
• Police responded to an alarm along South Third Street. Upon arrival, officers learned people were working at the scene.
• Police assisted Lawrence Township police with traffic control due to poor road conditions and stuck vehicles.
• Police assisted an individual who had locked their keys inside their vehicle along South Second Street.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an abandoned vehicle on Plaza Drive.
• Police received a report about a psychological emergency at a school.
• Police received a report about the alleged misappropriation of funds that occurred at a local nursing facility.
• Police responded to numerous weather-related traffic incidents throughout the township.
• Police responded to a report of a possible burglary in progress. It was unfounded.
• Police are asking motorists to slow down due to winter weather conditions. Also, police suggest if you must drive in inclement weather, you leave early in case you encounter delays due to traffic accidents. Police also suggest carrying an extra flashlight, clothing/blankets, etc. in case you have vehicle trouble.
• Police received a report about a hit-and-run accident on Route 879.
• Police assisted a motorist whose vehicle was stuck in the snow.

Clearfield Borough

• Police were dispatched to West Second Avenue for a male who had reportedly left a residence threatening self-harm. Police located the male who denied making any indications of harming himself.
• Police were dispatched to East Locust Street where a wire was damaged that provides power to Christmas lights.
• Police received a report about an alleged theft at a local pharmacy. Upon arrival, police were able to view surveillance video and identify the suspects.  Police located a male and female at a local residence and determined both were wanted on warrants.  Police said the female was able to pay funds associated with her warrant, while the male was taken to jail on several outstanding warrants.
• Police reported that gas was removed from a vehicle while it was parked along Martin Street.

Lawrence Township

• Police assisted emergency personnel with a fall patient.
• Police responded to a local business for a report of a psychological emergency.
• Police received a report about a traffic complaint.
• Police received a report about a civil property dispute.
• Police received a report about the alleged theft of property. It remains under investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about a missing person who was later found to be in an out-of-town hospital.
• Police received a report about a domestic disturbance at a South Second Street residence. Upon arrival to the scene, police found a Clearfield man was allegedly in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was placed into custody and taken to the county jail to be arraigned by the district judge.
• Police were dispatched to a mental health issue at Lawrence Park Village.
• Police were dispatched to the Sheetz store, located along Route 879, for a report about counterfeit money. Police have obtained surveillance video of a female suspect, and the incident remains under investigation at this time.
• Police responded to an alarm at a business on Woodland Road and upon arrival, everything was found to be OK.

Sandy Township

• On Monday employees of Snappy’s Convenience Store reported a 43-year-old woman attempted to take a bottle of oil treatment without paying for it. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police reported a false alarm at Tan Zone on Monday.
• On Monday a 40-year-old Treasure Lake woman reported while driving on Route 255, a rock from a PennDOT truck hit her windshield, causing it to break.
• Police received a report about a possible trespassing incident Monday at a vacant Treasure Lake residence. It remains under investigation at this time.
• A truck driver reported that another truck backed into hers while parking in the Pilot parking lot Tuesday. No injuries and minor damage were reported, police said. 
• On Tuesday an 18-year-old man was driving on Barnoff Road when he lost control of his vehicle on the icy roadway, causing it to crash into a parked car at Royer’s. Both cars received moderate damage, and no injuries were reported as a result, police said.
• On Tuesday police responded to the Pilot Travel Center for a report about a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival officers located a 24-year-old Emporium woman and her 38-year-old boyfriend who were engaged in a verbal dispute.  Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On Tuesday a 40-year-old Treasure Lake woman lost control of her vehicle while traveling on Clear Run Road, causing it to travel off the roadway and hit a tree. The vehicle received moderate damage and was towed from the scene; no injuries were reported as a result, police said.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to an East Pine Street residence to check the welfare of a child. Police met with personnel from Children and Youth Services and found there wasn’t anything criminal in nature taking place.
• Police responded to an activated alarm on South Second Street. Upon arrival police found everything to be OK.
• Police received a report about items that were allegedly thrown at a vehicle while it was parked along South Second Street.
• Police assisted individuals who had locked their keys inside their vehicle.
• Police responded to West Market Street for a vehicle that was stuck on the hill. Police said the road crew responded as well to assist the motorist, and it was able to help them return to travel.
• Police reported that someone put trash in a dumpster along Daisy Street, and it does not belong to them. It remains under investigation at this time.
• Police responded to a minor accident at the intersection of East Market and South Second streets. Police said a bus had clipped the mirror of a parked car, causing minor damage.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on the Rockton Mountain Highway where one vehicle was in a ditch.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on Bailey Settlement Road. Police said one vehicle slid off the roadway and down an embankment.
• Police received a report about a dog at large in the area of Coal Hill Road.
• Police responded to a disabled vehicle on Daisy Street Extension. Officers directed traffic until it was removed from the roadway.
• Police responded to a local business for an activated alarm on Park Avenue Extension. Upon arrival police found everything to be OK.

Sandy Township

• On Wednesday a 28-year-old Country Place man reported that someone has used his identity to open multiple accounts fraudulently. Police are continuing the investigation at this time.
• On Wednesday a 23-year-old Brockway woman reported that while her vehicle was parked at Wal-Mart over a seven-day period, someone took the license plate off of it. Police are continuing the investigation at this time.
• On Thursday police reported a false alarm at a San Spur Road residence.
• On Thursday a 39-year-old South Main Street woman called police when her 12-year-old daughter refused to get in the car at K-mart. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• Police received a report about dogs being left out in the cold at an Overdorf Road residence on Thursday. However, there weren’t any dogs observed by officers.
• Police responded to a domestic disturbance at a Hanes Drive residence. According to the report, a 40-year-old man and his 32-year-old girlfriend got into an argument, and he grabbed her shoulders.  Officers handled the situation without incident.