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 Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an indecent assault that occurred June 29 at Wal-Mart in Young Township. During the incident, a male allegedly subjected two known victims to unwanted physical contact.

Lawrence Township

• Police conducted a traffic stop due to various equipment violations Friday in the area of the Wal-Mart Supercenter. Upon making contact, police learned the driver – Travis E. Brady, 25, of Clearfield – was wanted on a warrant in Jefferson County. He was subsequently taken into custody and allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. Brady was housed in the Clearfield County Jail until he could be picked up by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. Drug-related charges were filed against Brady for the incident.
• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Wednesday on Pifer Road. During the incident, someone allegedly smashed a mailbox. Police believe it was done from a moving vehicle and possibly a pick-up truck. Anyone with information is asked to contact township police; any violators will be cited for their actions.
• Police received a second report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred Wednesday on Pifer Road. During the incident, someone allegedly smashed a mailbox. Police believe it was done from a moving vehicle and possibly a pick-up truck. Anyone with information is asked to contact police; any violators will be cited for their actions.
• Police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Thursday on Fire Tower Road. During the incident, someone allegedly stole two handguns from two different vehicles at a Clearfield man’s residence. Police say the handguns were a Ruger LCP Compact Pistol and a Smith & Wesson M&P; both were entered into the National Crime Information Center/CLEAN. Anyone with information is asked to contact township police or Crime Stoppers.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about a suspicious female at Sheetz. According to police, she was seated at the picnic tables and screaming when there wasn’t anyone around her. Upon arrival, police observed the female walking north on Liberty Boulevard. She said there weren’t any problems and she was on her way to her storage shed. When police checked her identification, the female was found to be wanted on a warrant in Tennessee. Police noted it was for “in-state” only and no further action was taken.
• Police received a report about an elderly female walking into oncoming traffic in the 300 block of Maple Avenue towards Shaffer Avenue. While en route, officers were provided a description of the female. Police searched the area multiple times but were unable to locate the female. At that point, County Control provided updated information that the caller would flag down police. They traveled up and down Maple Avenue two more times slowly but were unable to locate the caller. Police were able to make contact by phone and found the female had been picked up right before the caller contacted 911; she had been dropped off at apartments in Sandy Township.
• Police received a report about an intoxicated male who was being disorderly at the Hitching Post. The caller added he was looking for his vehicle in the parking lot and she was concerned for his well-being. Upon arrival, police located the male sitting inside his vehicle in the parking lot with the engine running. Police found that he was incoherent and disoriented and unable to appropriately answer any questions. For example, he neither knew where he lived nor where he was at, police said. As a result, police believed he needed medical attention and he was taken to the hospital.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man is accused of kissing and inappropriately touching a teenage girl at a local school.

Brandon Michael Socash, 18, was originally charged by Officer Zachary Cowan of the Lawrence Township police with felony corruption of minors/defendant age 18 or above and misdemeanor indecent assault.

Socash waived the corruption of minors charge to county court on Wednesday at his preliminary hearing. The indecent assault charge was withdrawn and his bail was set at $5,000 unsecured.

The case stems from an incident that occurred April 25 at the Soaring Heights School, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Mike Morris.

The following day, Cowan received a report detailing the incident from the county’s Children & Youth Services Department. It stated that Socash had lost his cell phone while at the school and asked if he could look in an upstairs apartment used to teach life skills.

Socash asked to take another student, a 14-year-old girl, because she was using her phone to call his phone in their effort to find it. A teacher later went upstairs to look for the students and saw Socash leaving the upstairs area.

The teacher observed the apartment door was closed and opened it, at which time she reportedly observed the girl only partially clothed. The teacher said the girl’s shirt was lifted and she was pulling her pants up.

When Socash and the girl were confronted, both denied that anything had happened between them.

On May 10, the girl was interviewed at the Child Advocacy Center of Clearfield County. Based upon the results, Cowan requested an interview with her at the police station.

During the interview, the girl disclosed that she and Socash were close friends and had previously been in a relationship. She also admitted that she was trying to protect him because she cared about him.

She told Cowan that she and Socash had planned on going upstairs to hang out together, which they did for approximately an hour. She said there’s an area that appears to be a closet, which is where they spent most of their time.

The girl said Socash made advances towards her and she allowed it. She said he had her sit on his lap and they kissed, but this escalated to him touching her over her shirt.

She said when Socash went to remove her pants, she told him she didn’t want to continue. She said he obeyed her wishes and left the room, which was when the teacher came in.

Cowan asked the girl about her relationship with Socash. She said they had been together but not currently because he had concerns about the police finding out due to their age difference.

On May 15, Cowan conducted an interview with Socash, who was initially deceptive but then became cooperative. He admitted to having a previous relationship with the girl and being aware of her age.

He repeatedly commented that he was annoyed by the age difference and didn’t want to end up in a cell in jail with his cousin. Cowan was familiar with Socash’s cousin because he had arrested him for similar behavior with young girls.

Socash allegedly admitted to kissing and inappropriately touching the girl at the school.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield couple has been jailed on felony drug charges for allegedly selling methamphetamine.

Jason L. Merritts, 36, and Joyce L. Merritts, 32, have been charged with manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver; criminal conspiracy engaging/manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver; and criminal use of a communication facility (three counts).

The couple waived their rights to preliminary hearings Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. Their bail has been set at $50,000.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Feb. 15, an officer requested a confidential informant to contact Jason Merritts to arrange the purchase of methamphetamine.  The next day, the CI related that he/she had spoken with Joyce Merritts, who thought Jason Merritts had an eight ball, plus a few $20 bags to sell.

The CI sent a text message to Jason Merritts and asked him to hold the eight ball for he/she to purchase later that day. Jason Merritts agreed. The officer also asked the CI to check with Jason Merritts about when he would be getting more methamphetamine, and the CI agreed to find out.

Approximately a half-hour later, the CI related that Jason and Joyce Merritts had booked a hotel room the evening before in order to “relax” at the Super 8 in Clearfield.

At 1:30 p.m., officers and the CI conducted a briefing to prepare for the purchase of an eight ball of methamphetamine from the Merritts. An officer then provided the CI with $400 to complete the drug transaction.

At 2:15 p.m., officers traveled with the CI to the hotel and he/she went inside. At approximately 2:42 p.m., he/she returned and turned over a small Ziploc bag containing methamphetamine, which was allegedly purchased from Joyce Merritts.

While they were traveling to a local police station, the CI related that Jason Merritts was not inside the hotel room and had stepped out. However, Joyce Merritts and the couple’s children were there and she handled the drug transaction.

An officer later field tested the suspected methamphetamine, which yielded a positive result. It was later sent to the Pennsylvania State Police Crime Laboratory for further analysis.

DUBOIS – A DuBois man accused of indecent assault waived his right to a preliminary hearing Friday during centralized court.

Michael B. Roy, 59, is also charged by Sandy Township police with criminal attempt/indecent assault and corruption of minors in connection to an incident in Sandy Township on Feb. 10.

He is free on $50,000 unsecured bail.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, Roy contacted the 15-year-old victim asking if he wanted to ride ATV’s and go to the fire station. The teen agreed and decided to take two friends with him to meet Roy.

When Roy arrived at the meeting spot, he told the victim his friends could not go with them.

The victim said he and Roy then rode around, picking up beer and food. Roy offered beer to the boy, but he declined. Roy was drinking as he drove, the victim told police.

Eventually they ended up at Roy’s residence where he suggested they go to a bedroom to watch TV. Roy reportedly asked him to lay down on the bed with him, but the teen said no and stated they should go back downstairs. Once downstairs, they sat on a couch.

Roy allegedly started rubbing the victim’s back under his hoodie and advised him to stay away from his phone.

Moments later, Roy began reaching around the victim’s waist and attempted to place his hands under the victim’s waistband in the front of his private area, police said.

The victim immediately leaned forward, pulled away and got up, acting like he was stretching in order to distance himself from Roy.

Not long after this, he told Roy he was going to walk home. Roy said he could give him a ride and Roy then drove him to a friend’s house.

The victim told his friend what happened, and the friend urged him to tell his mother who called police.

She advised the victim not to take any calls from Roy.

The next day the woman who reported the crime saw Roy’s truck go by her home a few times. He also allegedly sent the victim three text messages asking the boy to call him.

When Roy was questioned by investigators, he admitted to rubbing the boy’s back but said he did not recall placing his hands in the victim’s waistline, according to the report.

State police at DuBois

• On Aug. 2, state police reported on a Fugitive from Justice on Main Street in Reynoldsville Borough. State police say Alicia Munoz, 37, was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for her arrest in Montgomery County, Ohio for aggravated possession of drugs. She is currently housed in Jefferson County Jail awaiting her extradition, and state police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of cruelty to animals that occurred June 30 along Siverling Road in Oliver Township. State police say there were two abandoned dogs found, and the investigation is continuing at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred July 22 along Kachmar Road in Perry Township. During the incident, a known person allegedly struck the victim. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Friday at the Jefferson County Jail. During the incident, two inmates were allegedly involved in a verbal altercation that turned physical.
• State police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred June 18 at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital. During the incident, a 58-year-old Johnstown man allegedly took the victim’s purse and its contents, including a cell phone and Hydrocodone tablets. He then drove to Penn Highlands Brookville and relinquished possession at the laboratory waiting room. Charges are currently pending through the district court.
• State police reported on an incident of DUI that occurred Sunday on Route 119 in Young Township. Upon investigation, it was determined that the driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol. State police also located a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. In addition, the driver had his son in the back seat of the vehicle. Charges will be filed through the district court.

Clearfield Borough

• Police assisted a motorist whose vehicle had become disabled along East Cherry Street. They helped move the vehicle off the roadway.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run crash along North Third Street. According to police, a driver backed a vehicle into another vehicle; then, they left the scene.  However, police were able to obtain a registration, and the investigation is continuing at this time.
• Police assisted emergency personnel with a medical alarm that had been activated on Dorey Street. It was found the alarm was accidentally set off.
• Police stopped an intoxicated male along West Front Street. He was transported to a family member’s residence and released.
• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle, located in a parking lot, off Hannah Street. Upon arrival, police found that the occupants were waiting on their friends who were leaving the Clearfield County Fair.
• Police assisted members of the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office who cited a male for public intoxication. He had reportedly been seen staggering along North Third Street.
• Police reported that a male was arrested for public intoxication along Dorey Street. He was located outside highly intoxicated when police responded to a disturbance. He was subsequently taken to the Clearfield County Jail.
• Police were requested to assist with the service of a mental health warrant on Temple Avenue. Upon arrival, police were informed that the male voluntarily went to seek treatment.
• Police reported that a male was cited for harassment along Cemetery Road. He had allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with a female.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash on Nichols Street. According to police, one vehicle drifted into another vehicle. Damage was minor and both vehicles were drivable; no injuries were reported to police.
• Police received a report about a male dragging a female across a parking lot on South Third Street. Upon arrival, police found that both parties were intoxicated. Police didn’t observe any physical injuries and noted that neither party wanted to cooperate.
• Police arrested a male along Nichols Street after he was found to have active warrants through the department. He was subsequently taken to the county jail.
• Police arrested a female at a Reed Street residence when it was found she had an active warrant through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office. She was subsequently transported to the county jail.
• Police received a report about people being loud and disorderly on a porch along East Pine Street. Upon arrival, police advised them of the complaint, and they agreed to keep it down.
• Police reported that a female was located at the fairgrounds, and she had active warrants through Domestic Relations, Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office and Lawrence Township police. She was subsequently transported to the county jail.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a male along East Locust Street. Upon arrival, police found the male was not at home.  Police were later notified he had been located and was OK.
• Police received a report about an intoxicated male on West Market Street. Police located the male who also showed signs of self-harm. He was subsequently transported to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police arrested a male who was found to allegedly be under the influence of a controlled substance along North Front Street. He was found to be in violation of his probation and was taken to the county jail.
• Police reported that a male was arrested for driving under the influence on Spruce Street. He was stopped for a traffic violation and found to be impaired.
• Police responded to a disturbance on North Fifth Street and located four people with active arrest warrants. As a result, two people were subsequently transported to county jail.
• Police took a male to county jail after being called about him allegedly harassing people in the Merrill Street area. He was found to be highly intoxicated and on probation.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a child along Daisy Street. Police found the child to be OK and in the proper care.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a male on Latimere Street because relatives were unable to contact him. Upon arrival, police found he was OK and having issues with his phone.
• Police assisted emergency personnel with a female who was having a medical emergency at the Clearfield County Fairgrounds.
• Police received a report about a female who was refusing to leave a business on North Third street. Police were able to handle the situation at the scene.
• Police responded to a two-vehicle collision on East Cherry Street. As a result, one male driver was arrested for driving under the influence of controlled substances.
• Police handled several parking-related calls.
• Police received a report about loud music being played in a parked vehicle on Nichols Street. Police notified the driver of the complaint and asked him to turn the music down.
• Police responded to an activated alarm along Power Avenue and learned that an employee had accidentally set it off.

Lawrence Township

• Police conducted a traffic stop for an equipment violation Monday in the area of Woodland Road and 14^th When contact was made with the occupants, police found a male juvenile was allegedly in possession of methamphetamine and various items of drug paraphernalia. Police completed a written allegation against the juvenile.
• Police received a report about an incident of trespassing that occurred Saturday at the Economy Inn, located on South Second Street, in Clearfield. Upon arrival, police found a female and her boyfriend in a room together. Police advised all parties to leave and not to return. Police will file charges against the female, as she’d trespassed in previous incidents.

DuBois City

• Police received a noise complaint that occurred along East Long Avenue. Upon arrival, police advised the responsible person of the complaint and asked them to keep the noise down.
• Police responded to a reported hold-up alarm in the 600 block of East DuBois Avenue. Upon investigation, police found there had been a malfunction with the alarm.
• Police received a report about an incident of theft in the 400 block of West Washington Avenue. During the incident, someone allegedly stole a fog light out of the victim’s GMC Arcadia.
• Police received a report about an electric scooter that had been stolen from the 300 block of South Jared Street. Prior to police arrival, the caller notified that it had been located.
• Police received a report about several 911 hang-up calls in the 300 block of Daly Street. Upon investigation, it was found to be a malfunction with the owner’s phone system.
• Police received a report about a domestic disturbance in the 300 block of Olive Avenue. Both people decided to go their separate ways for the day.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a tenant in the 200 block of Spring Avenue. According to police, a male and female had been arguing, and the male decided to leave for the night. Police cleared the scene without further incident.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred on public transportation. However, police determined it was an argument and not harassment.
• Police received a report about a possible intoxicated male yelling at the cashier inside Sheetz on North Brady Street. However, the cashier told police there wasn’t a problem and they cleared the scene.
• Police observed a Chrysler sedan parked in a business lot well after hours. According to police, the male occupant had just left another establishment and was using his phone before pulling out. Police cleared the scene without incident.
• Police were requested to call a female about a previous domestic situation with her boyfriend. She was provided with the necessary information and police cleared the scene without incident.
• Police received a traffic complaint that originated in Sandy Township but continued into DuBois City. However, police were unable to locate the vehicle in question.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run crash that occurred in the 200 block of West Long Avenue. According to the report, police obtained the vehicle’s registration and located the owner. Police say the complainant’s vehicle had sustained minor damage in the crash.
• Police received a report about a domestic disturbance in the 700 block of East DuBois Avenue. According to police, a couple was traveling through the area and had engaged in an argument at gas pumps. Police made contact with the couple and they continued on their trip.
• Police received a report about a drug violation on East Long Avenue. According to police, contact was made with a tenant who had been smoking marijuana in his apartment. Illegal contraband was seized, and police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about people knocking at a door along Rumbarger Avenue. Upon arrival, police found two juvenile females on the porch to a residence, and they were released to relatives.
• Police received a report about loud music being played in a vehicle in the St. Michael’s parking lot on Robinson Street. However, the vehicle was gone upon police arrival.
• Police observed a male yelling at people along West Long Avenue. He was reportedly attempting to return to an establishment after he had been asked to leave. He was provided with a ride home.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash in the area of South Brady Street and Scribner Avenue. Both vehicles sustained minor damage; there weren’t any injuries reported at the scene. Both drivers were issued an information exchange sheet.
• Police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred on Garfield Avenue. According to police, a dark blue 2003 Hyosung motorcycle was stolen from the victim’s residence. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police responded to a reported alarm at Kohlepp’s True Value. The owner’s daughter told police she had accidentally set it off.
• Police received a report about an unresponsive male on West DuBois Avenue in front of the Harley Davidson shop. According to police, a driver had pulled into the oncoming lane and passed out. He was transported to the Penn Highlands Hospital.

CLEARFIELD – One of the two men charged with burglary and arson for entering a home in Lawrence Township pleaded guilty Monday.

Stephen Jon Zimmerman, 22, of New Millport pleaded guilty to arson, burglary, risking a catastrophe, reckless burning, possessing instruments of crime and tampering with evidence.

He was sentenced by Judge Fredric J. Ammerman to one to 10 years in state prison. He must also pay restitution of over $39,000.

The charges stem from a break in at a Lawrence Township home on May 24.

Prior to sentencing, Ammerman read from a victim impact statement that stated the children of the family live in fear that the “bad guys are coming back.”

“Our home was our safe space,” he read. They went on to question why the men didn’t just take what they wanted and go instead of starting the fire.

Ammerman added to this by saying “this was senseless destruction for no reason what so ever.”

He commented that he would like to have given Zimmerman 10 to 20 years in prison, but he could not.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, when the owner of the home returned he noticed that his ATV was missing and the front door of the residence was wide open.

Once inside, he found a pour pattern on the floor of what appeared to be gasoline and there was fire damage to his living room furniture.

It was discovered the burglars had gotten in through an open bathroom window by removing the screen.

Jewelry, a video game console, DVDs and other items were missing.  Damage indicated that the actors had tried to gain entry to a gun safe.

On June 6, a man contacted police reporting that someone had tried to sell him an ATV through Facebook messenger. This witness then contacted the person selling the vehicle and got photos that confirmed it was the missing ATV.

During his contact with the witness, Zimmerman admitted the ATV was stolen.

Police were unable to make contact with Zimmerman at his residence.

The witness told police that Zimmerman would be at the Glen Richey Fire Hall at 6 p.m. on June 9. Police responded to the scene where they took Zimmerman into custody.

During an interview, Zimmerman identified Nevin Edward Kruise, 27, of Westover as the one who actually entered the home through the window and tried to enter the safe while Zimmerman loaded the ATV. He also claimed Kruise poured gasoline through the residence and lit it.

Kruise was found at a Grampian residence and taken into custody.

In his interview with police, Kruise said it was Zimmerman who initially entered the home, and later set a fire with gasoline.

Kruise was also scheduled to be sentenced Monday, but his case was continued until September.

CLEARFIELD – A Philipsburg man was in violation of his probation when he allegedly sent obscene photos and a video to an area teen.

Hunter Thomas Harris, 24, was serving five years probation after he completed a year in jail for setting fire to a Chester Hill home in 2015.

Harris and his co-defendants, Samuel W. Connor V, 22, and Kenneth Moore, 23, were all given the same county sentence of one to two years less one day in the county jail by Judge Fredric J. Ammerman, along with probation in September of 2016.

Ammerman stated that he was giving the trio a break, but warned them if they violated their probation, they could go to state prison.

On Monday, Harris was in court for a hearing determining if he had violated his probation by committing a new crime.

Harris waived his right to a preliminary hearing Aug. 1 on charges of dissemination of explicit sexual material to minor, unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors. Harris is incarcerated in lieu of $100,000 bail.

His attorney, Tami Fees, argued for the judge to wait until the new charges are resolved before revoking his probation.

Ammerman noted that the jail had problems with Harris fighting when he was incarcerated previously. He then revoked his probation and sentenced him to two to six years in state prison.

According to the affidavit in the arson case, the three men decided to set a fire in a vacant home in Chester Hill so they could help put it out.

They then went to the fire station in Philipsburg to wait for the call that came about 15 minutes later. The trio returned to the scene with the fire company and assisted with putting out the fire.

The new case involves his contact with a 15-year-old girl through social media.

He allegedly asked the girl to send him a photo of herself without her top, but she told him “no”, saying that what he was doing was illegal.

She did send him a few old photos from her Facebook account.

Harris then reportedly sent her a photo of his bare chest and private area.

He also sent an obscene video of himself, police said.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal trespass/mischief that occurred between Aug. 1 and Monday on the Luthersburg-Rockton Road in Union Township. During the incident, someone allegedly gained entry by kicking in the rear exterior door, causing damage to the interior door jamb and latch. State police say that footprints were observed on the door and the investigation is continuing at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at 814-371-4652.

State police at Ridgway

• On Monday state police received a report about a domestic disturbance on Pennsylvania Avenue in James City. During the incident, a couple allegedly used physical contact against each other. Both will be cited for harassment through the district court.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an incident of harassment Sunday at the Best Western Plus in Clearfield. Upon arrival, officers learned that a mother and daughter, both of whom were from New Jersey, had been involved in a verbal altercation. It allegedly turned physical when the mother scratched her daughter’s neck. She also told police that her mother had bitten her in the chest and side several times. Both were separated for the remainder of the night, and the mother will be cited for the incident. Emergency personnel also responded to the scene.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Tuesday on Daisy Street Extension in Lawrence Township. During the incident, someone allegedly stole a Sony PlayStation and assorted games, valued at $450, from a home. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about an incident of burglary that occurred Tuesday at the Lawrence Park Village in Lawrence Township. During the incident, someone allegedly broke into an apartment and stole items from inside. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police reported on an incident of DUI that occurred Aug. 4 on Mill Road in Clearfield. According to police, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle driven by a 42-year-old man following the closure of the county fair. He was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, and charges will be filed as a result.
• Police reported on an incident of public drunkenness that occurred Tuesday on Turnpike Avenue. According to police, officers were requested to check the welfare of a Clearfield male who was possibly under the influence of a controlled substance. After searching the area for several minutes, officers were able to locate the male and he was visibly under the influence. He was taken into custody and housed in county jail on a 48-hour detainer with a citation pending.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man was arrested last week after leading a state trooper on a 13-mile, high-speed pursuit.

Calvin Odell Watson, 45, has been charged by Trooper Chad D. Ryen of the Clearfield-based state police with felony fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, misdemeanor recklessly endangering another person and 49 summaries.

Watson waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. He remains incarcerated at the jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, at approximately 1:29 p.m. July 31, Ryen was sitting stationary in a marked patrol unit on a traffic island along state Route 879, just west of Industrial Park Road in Lawrence Township.

The trooper observed a silver Chevrolet Cobalt with a male driver, and his vehicle displayed an expired inspection sticker. Ryen activated his emergency lights to pursue the vehicle, but the driver fled by passing another motorist on the right berm.

The driver proceeded through the intersection at Supercenter Drive without stopping at the red-light signal. He continued passing motorists on the right berm, as he traveled through the intersection at Industrial Park Road.

He entered the center of the roadway and passed another motorist in order to flee onto the Interstate 80 eastbound on-ramp. He reportedly swerved onto I-80 across to the far left-hand lane, back across both lanes and onto the right berm.

The driver continued to flee eastbound on I-80 while swerving in and out of traffic and passing several motorists. He fled for approximately 13 miles with seven state troopers at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, Ryen said.

The driver exited I-80 at Kylertown and traveled through a posted stop sign to enter onto state Route 153. The pursuit was terminated via “legal intervention” and the driver, identified as Watson, and his female passenger were taken into custody.

CLEARFIELD – A Philipsburg man has been accused of strangling his girlfriend during an assault.

Adam Lee Sypin, 30, has been charged by Trooper James Ensor Jr. of the Clearfield-based state police with felony strangulation, misdemeanor terroristic threats and simple assault, plus one summary.

Sypin had all charges held to county court following his preliminary hearing on Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail. Bail has been set at $75,000 monetary.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred July 24 at a Dinky Road address in Decatur Township, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling.

The victim, Sypin’s girlfriend, called state police stating that Sypin had “ambushed” her at her residence. She said when she came home, she went upstairs where Sypin was hiding and he reportedly told her “we’re both dying today.”

Sypin allegedly punched her, grabbed her by the neck, picked her up and slammed her against the wall. She said her vision “turned black” while he was choking her, then when she fell to the floor, she could feel her whole body was tingling. She couldn’t get up.

She said Sypin kicked her in the stomach and kidneys while telling her repeatedly he would kill her and apologize to her mom. She said he also told her that she could see her mom at her funeral.

Sypin wouldn’t allow her to leave and punched her in the head several times. He told her if she didn’t give him her phone, he would kill her, according to the affidavit.

Sypin allegedly wrapped an electrical cord around the victim’s neck and tightened it, so that she couldn’t breathe. She said he punched her in the stomach again and slapped her in the face before fleeing the scene.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle that was parked along Turnpike Avenue. As a result of the call, a male was allegedly found to be in possession of drugs and paraphernalia.
• Police received a report about a female walking in traffic along South Fourth Street. Police located the female who suffers from a medical issue, and she was transported back to her residence.
• Police received a report about a female who was threatening self-harm on Boyer Avenue. Police arrived and assisted with transporting the female to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police received a noise complaint that occurred along East Market Street. During the incident, someone set off firecrackers. However, police were unable to locate anyone upon a search of the area.
• Police responded to an activated alarm along North Second Street. Police arrived and determined that bats had set the alarm off.  Police assisted with removing the bats.
• Police assisted a motorist who had locked their keys inside their vehicle along South Fourth Street.
• Police responded to a minor two-vehicle collision along West Front Street. According to police, one vehicle backed into another while stopped at a red light.  Minor damage was reported and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Police received a report about the theft of services along South Fourth Street. During the incident, a known person was allegedly using a dumpster that was not his.  He was warned of his actions.

CLEARFIELD – A Morrisdale man was sentenced to state prison Tuesday for possessing a quantity of heroin.

William John Lamb Jr., 26, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia before Judge Fredric J. Ammerman, who sentenced him to a total of 13 months to 30 months in state prison.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, officers arrived at Lamb’s Morrisdale residence on March 3, 2017 to serve an arrest warrant on Lamb, who was on state parole.

Lamb’s father let them inside the home where they found Lamb lying on a bedroom floor. In plain view, the parole officers were able to see drugs and drug paraphernalia and they then contacted state police.

When the troopers arrived, they found 80 stamp bags of heroin, marijuana, rolling papers, a scale and needles.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man pleaded guilty during sentencing court in Clearfield County Tuesday to leading police on a chase in January.

Christian Scott Graham, 19, was sentenced to one to three years in state prison for fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, recklessly endangering another person and possession of drug paraphernalia by Judge Fredric J. Ammerman.

The charges stem from an incident on Jan. 28 in Bradford Township.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, a trooper was following a black coupe that had a registration listed as a “dead tag.”

The trooper kept following the vehicle on Pinetop Road where the driver, later identified as Graham, was going 60-miles-per-hour in a 40-miles-per-hour zone.

Because it was not a safe location for a traffic stop, the trooper waited until the vehicle reached the intersection with Main Street to activate his emergency lights.

Graham accelerated in an attempt to flee as he traveled into the other lane of travel and sped by a stop sign.

During the pursuit, the vehicle left its lane multiple times, failed to stop at posted signs and did not use its turn signal.

While fleeing on state Route 879, the vehicle slid through the intersection with the Old Erie Pike, and almost struck a guiderail.

The trooper and a second officer left their vehicles to try to take Graham into custody.

Instead, Graham backed his vehicle into one of the police cars and sped away on Old Erie Pike and then to the Clearfield-Glen Richey Highway.

Near Lawrence Park Village, a Clearfield Borough officer used a spike strip to try to stop the vehicle.

Graham evaded the strip and entered the southbound lane of SR 153 before getting on to the SR 879 ramp where he turned east on the bypass.

The several police cars now following Graham tried to box the vehicle in, but it made an abrupt move to the left where it made contact with one of the vehicles.

On Airport Road, Graham lost control of his vehicle and struck an embankment. The vehicle spun 360 degrees and then continued west of SR 879.

While he approached another right-hand turn, the trooper used a maneuver in an attempt to end the chase.

Graham lost control of his vehicle and it spun 180 degrees. He attempted to continue fleeing, but a trooper was able to take him into custody.

MORRIS TOWNSHIP – A California couple is behind bars after allegedly being found with a bulk of heroin and currency.

Ricardo Mercado Sanchez, 39, and Luisa Fernanda Patino Sandoval, 32, both of La Puente, Calif., have been charged with one felony count of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver.

Both were arraigned Thursday morning and committed to the Clearfield County Jail. Both have been scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings Wednesday during centralized court at the jail.

The charges stem from a traffic stop that occurred at approximately 3:31 p.m. Wednesday on a Dodge caravan bearing a Utah registration, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling.

A trooper activated his emergency equipment after witnessing multiple traffic violations. Sanchez was identified as the driver and Sandoval as the front-seat passenger, and consent was obtained to search the vehicle.

The search yielded a bulk of heroin, suspected fentanyl and a digital scale concealed in a large, powdered laundry detergent container. Bulk currency was also seized from inside, state police said.

Both Sanchez and Sandoval denied ownership of the contraband. The amount of heroin is suspected to be in excess of one kilogram.

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 Borough

• Police assisted emergency personnel with a fall patient along Spruce Street. A female had fallen and was unable to get to the door to unlock it. Police were able to enter and assist on scene.
• Police received a report about music being played at an excessive volume in a vehicle along South Second Street. Upon arrival, police found that the vehicle had left the area.
• Police received a report about an activated alarm along East Pine Street. Police found the building to be secured.
• Police reported that a window was smashed out of a vehicle while it was parked along East Locust Street.
• Police received a report about kids playing on the roadway along Daisy Street. When police arrived, the kids weren’t any longer in the area.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a female on East Pine Street. Upon arrival, police found the female had taken a large amount of medication.  Emergency personnel were summoned to the scene and transported the female to the hospital for treatment.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a burglary Thursday on Daisy Street. During the incident, someone allegedly entered the victim’s home and stole various items, which were worth over $600. Upon further investigation, police were able to identify the suspects. Although the case is still pending, police expect to charge four suspects in the near future.

CLEARFIELD – The case against a Madera man charged with homicide by vehicle while DUI was the subject of a hearing Friday in Clearfield County Court.

Gregory Allen Millinder Jr., 32, is also charged with aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, DUI, involuntary manslaughter, endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person and four traffic summaries in connection to a traffic accident July 2 on state Route 53 in Woodward Township.

It involved three vehicles including a Chevrolet BelAir whose driver suffered serious injuries and a passenger who was pronounced dead at the scene.

David Shrager, attorney for Millinder, filed a motion to suppress blood test results and to dismiss all charges, based on the claim there was not enough evidence presented at the preliminary hearing.

According to previous reports, the blood test showed Millinder was under the influence of amphetamine, methamphetamine and Clonazepam at the time of the accident.

Trooper Dennis Peters testified during a hearing Friday before Judge Fredric J. Ammerman that a witness at the scene told him Millinder’s Jeep Wrangler was traveling back and forth in the northbound lane before it struck a Chevrolet Corvette that swerved to avoid the impact.

The Jeep then allegedly struck the Chevrolet BelAir head-on.

After speaking with Millinder, Peters felt he was under the influence and took him to the police barracks for an evaluation from a Drug Recognition Expert who agreed with him.

While still at the scene, Peters stated that Millinder admitted to taking Klonopin a few days prior to this.

Under questioning by Assistant District Attorney Jendi Schwab, Peters said Millinder was cooperative and agreed to the blood test. Peters said he read the standard form with his rights regarding blood tests to Millinder.

Lyle Dresbold, another attorney on the case, asked Peters during cross examination if Millinder gave another version of the crash to which Peters replied that Millinder claimed the cars were in his lane.

Dresbold asked if Peters was an accident reconstructionist and after Peters said no, Dresbold commented that Peters would then not be able to tell what happened during the crash.

Peters noted that he knows the sun and the sky even though he is not an astronomer.

Peters also said the gouges in the ground from the accident verified the witness’ account.

Dresbold then asked specific questions regarding his observations of Millinder that led Peters to believe he was under the influence.

He testified that Millinder was consuming a lot of water and appeared when he talked, as if his mouth was dry. He was also shaking, his eyelids were droopy and his pupils were constricted, all indications of being under the influence, Peters said.

Dresbold noted that Peters would not know how Millinder appears or talks on a normal basis.

He then asked if Millinder sustained any injuries in the crash. Peters said he was not aware of any, but agreed it was possible Millinder could have had a head injury.

Earlier in the hearing, Peters stated that when he asked Millinder if he or his daughter, a passenger in his vehicle, needed medical attention, he said no and they were fine.

Dresbold commented that if Millinder was impaired, that Peters got permission from an impaired person for the blood test.

When Dresbold stated that Peters’ experience is more with drivers under the influence of alcohol than drugs, Peters corrected him by saying now there are almost equal numbers of the two types of cases in this area.

Peters testified that he has handled over 300 DUI cases.

During re-direct questioning from Schwab, Peters confirmed that although Millinder was under the influence of something, Peters felt Millinder understood him and spoke coherently.

A second part of the defense motion claims that there was not enough evidence presented for this case at the preliminary hearing and asks for all of the charges to be dropped.

At the preliminary hearing, in addition to Peters’ testimony, the witness testified, and the DRE’s report and the blood test results were entered as evidence, according to previous reports.

Ammerman gave both sides until Oct. 3 to provide briefs on these issues.

He will review the briefs and a transcript of the preliminary hearing before making a decision on whether to suppress the blood test results and or withdraw the charges.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal trespass that occurred Thursday on Route 322 in Pine Creek Township. During the incident, a 54-year-old Brookville man allegedly entered the victims’ residence and wouldn’t leave after being told to numerous times.

Lawrence Township

• Police reported on a drug-related incident that occurred Aug. 8 on Mount Zion Road. According to police, a state parole agent requested assistance with conducting a search of a Clearfield residence. He had located suspected methamphetamine in a male’s possession, and it was turned over to police. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police reported on an incident of DUI that occurred Saturday at Sheetz. According to police, a male appeared to be passed out inside a vehicle in the parking lot, and they were requested to check on his welfare. Upon arrival, police found the Grampian male was allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police reported on a drug-related incident that occurred at the Clearfield County Jail. While doing an inventory of an Emporium woman’s personal property, corrections officers located suspected methamphetamine, Gabapentin and various items of suspected drug paraphernalia. The woman had been housed at the jail for an offense on Friday. All of the items were turned over to the township police, and charges are currently pending.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment via communication that occurred Saturday at Edgewood. During the incident, a known female allegedly sent harassing messages to the complainant. Police say the female has refused to refrain from further contact and will be charged accordingly.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle accident Friday on Good Street. According to police, a truck had wrecked into a home and a female had sustained injuries. Police say the female had major injuries to her right leg and abdomen. She was flown to Altoona for medical treatment, and the truck was removed from the home.
• Police received a report about an incident of loitering and prowling Thursday at a Linwood Street residence. Upon arrival, officers found an “unwanted” ex-girlfriend outside knocking on the door; she was hoping to speak with a male at the residence. She was advised that she was not wanted there and needed to leave. She then stated she was there to speak to the male about their baby. Police asked her to please leave the residence and to address any custody issues with her attorney.
• Police received a report about retail thefts that occurred Friday at Rural King, Tractor Supply Big Lots and Label Shopper. Police say two suspects stole several items from the stores, and they were taken into custody as a result.
• Police received a report about an incident of disorderly conduct that occurred Saturday at the Lawrence Park Village. Upon arrival, police observed a male who was upset and yelling. He was found to be wanted on warrants through Venago County and subsequently taken to the county jail.
• Police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Saturday at a residence on Turnpike Avenue Extension. The victim told police he had returned home to find several items missing from his property, and he identified two possible suspects who had been staying there. He estimated the total value of the theft to be $300. In the report, police indicated there wasn’t any evidence to connect the suspects to the theft, and anyone with information is asked to contact police.

DuBois City

• Police responded to a reported alarm at the Timberland Federal Credit Union. While en route, police learned that it was an accidental alarm.
• Police received a report about a found dog in the 100 block of Evergreen Street. Upon a check of the dog log book, police were able to identify its owner and return it.
• Police received a report about an incident at a North Jared Street address, where a male wouldn’t allow his ex-girlfriend to leave. At the scene, the female told police the couple had engaged in an argument, and she had slapped him a couple times in the face. However, he declined to file any charges, and police asked her to leave.
• Police responded to a reported hit-and-run at the DuBois City Park. According to police, a witness observed a red Chevrolet pick-up truck strike a parked vehicle when it left an adjacent parking lot. The witness said the truck caused substantial damage to the corner of the parked Chevrolet Malibu; the truck’s center wheel cap was still at the scene, as well. They ran after the vehicle but wasn’t able to catch up and stop the driver but did see it as it turned onto Liberty Boulevard from Parkway Drive. The witness thought the driver possibly turned into the DuBois Manor parking lot. Upon arrival there, police located the truck and observed damage. Pictures were taken and police saw that the center cap of the rear passenger’s side wheel was missing. Its other wheel caps matched the one located at the scene of the crash. When a male approached and identified himself as the driver, police could allegedly detect the odor of an intoxicating beverage.  He admitted that he should not have left the scene and he had consumed a few beers. He was administered a series of field sobriety tests after which he was placed under arrest for suspected DUI. Police then released him to his roommate.
• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief to a vehicle at a business in the 100 block of West DuBois Avenue. The caller told police that someone had thrown chicken wings into the front-seat of his girlfriend’s vehicle overnight. Police were provided a name for the suspect and the investigation is continuing at this time.
• Police received a report about harassment that had occurred over Facebook. A male told police he had received messages from a known female who stated she was going to punch him. Police advised him to block the female and eliminate her means of contacting him.
• Police received a report about an elderly male who had passed out inside a business in the 100 block of North Brady Street. Upon arrival, police made contact with the male and were able to determine it was a medical emergency. He was subsequently transported to the hospital by ambulance.
• Police received a report about an assault at a residence in the 100 block of Quarry Avenue. Upon arrival, contact was made with a juvenile who alleged that his sister’s boyfriend had punched him in the back of his head. When police spoke with the male, he stated the juvenile had pointed an airsoft gun at him. He also stated that when he’d asked the juvenile to stop, he refused and so he punched him in the head. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about a disturbance in the 100 block of West Weber Avenue. Upon arrival, contact was made with a couple who advised they were just arguing and everything was OK. Police were able to determine that no crime had occurred and cleared the scene.
• While on routine patrol, police encountered a 28-year-old DuBois man who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol in the area of the 100 block of East Long Avenue. He was released to a sober person and will be cited for public drunkenness.
• While on routine patrol, police observed a suspicious vehicle in the area of Pifer Street. Upon contact and investigation, an officer allegedly located numerous items of drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance. Police say a Brockway male will face charges as a result of the incident.
• Police received a report about a male who was walking in the area of the DuBois City Park and believed to be under the influence of a controlled substance. Upon arrival, police were advised the male had entered a vehicle and left the area. Police proceeded to check the area but didn’t locate anyone.
• Police responded to a reported motor vehicle crash in the first block of North Franklin Street. Upon arrival, police found the driver was in the process of turning around when their vehicle struck a telephone pole. Minor damage was reported to the vehicle and the pole.
• While on routine patrol, police observed a black Chevrolet truck travel through a steady red light at the intersection of North Brady Street and Park Avenue. An officer initiated a traffic stop and identified the male driver who was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He was transported to the hospital for a legal blood draw and released to a sober person. Charges are pending receipt of the laboratory analysis.
• While on routine patrol, police encountered a Reynoldsville male who was under the influence of alcohol in the 300 block of West Long Avenue. He was released to a sober person and will be cited for public drunkenness.
• Police received a report about an unwanted male who was causing problems in the 200 block of South Brady Street. Upon arrival, police found he was visiting another male and permitted to be there. Police advised the parties to cease contact with each other.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of a male who was yelling and screaming in an apartment in the 100 block of Fuller Avenue. Police were able to make contact and have him taken to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police received a report about a fight in the first block of East Scribner Avenue. Officers were told it involved three males and two females were trying to break it up. Upon arrival, police found it wasn’t physical in nature and a family dispute.