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Pictured are Terry J. Wallace, 41, Matthew J. Brubaker, 32, and Marc T. Measnikoff, 34, all of Munson.

*This news article contains graphic details and may be upsetting to some GANT News readers.

CLEARFIELD – Three Munson men have been accused of having sexual intercourse with farm animals on a daily basis over the past four or five years.

Terry J. Wallace, 41, Matthew J. Brubaker, 32, and Marc T. Measnikoff, 34, were arrested by Clearfield-based state police on Saturday.

All three men waived their rights to preliminary hearings before Magisterial District Judge James Glass on Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail.

Brubaker’s bail remains set at $100,000 monetary; both Measnikoff and Wallace had theirs reduced to $75,000 monetary. All three remain housed at the jail.

Assistant District Attorney Ryan Dobo had opposed any reduction in bail due to the severity of the charges and the “embarrassment factor,” which, he said, also raised safety concerns.

During Wallace’s argument specifically, he said Wallace could possibly try to “escape” the embarrassment. He said there was not only the risk that he might harm himself, but also that others might try to harm him.

Wallace’s attorney, Chris Pentz of the Public Defender’s office, agreed safety was a legitimate issue and the charges were a “heavy stain” on Wallace’s character. However, he said the jail was the least safe place for him to be right now.

He said by this point, the inmates know Wallace and the nature of his charges. He argued that this would make it difficult for Wallace to avoid conflict and protect himself.

Pentz also said Wallace lacks the financial means to flee from the area and has also been a life-long resident of either Blair or Clearfield County.

Pentz concluded his argument by asking for unsecured but supervised bail. Dobo opposed, calling Wallace “a danger to society” and adding he could engage in such behavior again.

The trio’s arrests stemmed from an ongoing investigation into reports of abuse and the execution of a search warrant, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

The search warrant was for the seizure of electronic devices that were used to photograph, film and store evidence of the sexual abuse of the animals at a “makeshift farm” in Munson.

During a Child Advocate interview, a minor related to authorities that he’d been living at the farm property for the last four or five years.

He said he was regularly exposed to Wallace, Brubaker and Measnikoff, who were having sexual intercourse with horses, dogs, a cow and a goat on a daily basis.

According to the minor, living conditions were “deplorable.” He had to collect rain water to shower, there was a very limited food supply and there was neither electricity nor bathrooms.

On Saturday state police executed a search warrant, at which time Wallace, Brubaker and Measnikoff were taken into custody.

In interviews with state police, both Brubaker and Measnikoff allegedly admitted to committing the crimes over the past several years.

Brubaker also incriminated the other two men. Measnikoff, however, declined to respond to questions regarding Brubaker and Wallace.

Wallace, Brubaker and Measnikoff have been charged with one felony count each of endangering the welfare of children and corruption of minors.

The men have also been charged with 1,460 misdemeanor counts of sexual intercourse with an animal and 1,460 summary counts of cruelty to animals.

State police and the Clearfield County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals were finding placement for the animals, according to a previous press release issued by District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr.

Shaw also said the minor had been taken into protective custody. He said while there aren’t any allegations that the minor was abused, the investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of any mental or physical abuse he may have been exposed to.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about an altercation along Nichols Street. Upon arrival, police found that it had been verbal in nature., and those involved were separated for the night.
• Police arrested a female who was allegedly under the influence of a controlled substance on North Fifth Street. She was subsequently transported to the county jail.
• Police responded to an activated alarm along West Front Street and determined that the building was secured.
• Police reported that someone located a marijuana pipe next to a building along Turnpike Avenue.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment over property that occurred on North Fourth Street. Police determined that the issue was civil and advised those involved to contact the appropriate agencies.
• Police received a report about people being on a Clearfield Street resident’s front porch. Upon arrival, police found they were seeking coverage from the rain.
• Police responded to a report about a male who had taken pills in an attempt to harm himself. Emergency personnel were summoned and transported the male to the hospital for treatment.
• Police responded to a report about a female who had ingested pills in an attempt to harm herself. Emergency personnel arrived and transported the female to the hospital for treatment.
• Police assisted emergency personnel with a female who was having suicidal thoughts. She was subsequently transported to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police responded to an activated alarm along South Second Street and determined the residence was secured.

Lawrence Township

• Police reported on a drug-related DUI that occurred Wednesday in the area of Clark and Spring streets. According to police, a traffic stop was conducted due to a suspended vehicle registration. When contact was made with the driver, he was allegedly found to be under the influence of controlled substance(s). He ultimately refused to provide a blood sample and charges were filed for the incident.
• Police reported on a drug-related incident that occurred Thursday in the area of the Clearfield County Career & Technology Center on River Road. According to police, a traffic stop was conducted due to an equipment violation. When contact was made, it was found one occupant – Michael Wells – had a warrant through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office. As part of the investigation, police removed the two other male occupants from the vehicle, at which point suspected marijuana was observed in plain view. A search of the vehicle allegedly yielded more marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Both the driver and his passenger took ownership of the controlled substances and paraphernalia. Police learned the passenger was on probation, and he was placed on a detainer. He and Wells were subsequently housed in county jail. Drug-related charges will be filed against the driver and his passenger.

CLEARFIELD – Four people suspected of being involved with drug activities were scheduled for preliminary hearings on Wednesday.

Kayla Nichole Rauch, 30, of Clearfield has been charged by Trooper Shane T. Murarik of the Rockview-based state police with felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and conspiracy.

Rauch has also been charged with misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia. Her bail has been set at $50,000 monetary.

Chelsea Marie Kephart, 35, of Osceola Mills has been charged with felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and conspiracy.

Kephart has also been charged with misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia, plus two summaries. Her bail has been set at $50,000 unsecured.

Brandon Charles Lefort, 21, of Osceola Mills has been charged with felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and conspiracy.

Lefort has also been charged with misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia. His bail has been set at $10,000 unsecured.

Clinton Thomas Guthrie, 35, of Osceola Mills has been charged with felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and conspiracy.

Guthrie has also been charged with misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia. His bail has been set at $50,000 unsecured.

Rauch, Kephart, Lefort and Guthrie all waived their rights to preliminary hearings during centralized court Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

The charges stem from a traffic stop that occurred at approximately 10 a.m. Aug. 15 in Osceola Mills Borough, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling.

Murarik was sitting stationary in his patrol unit on Stumptown Road when he observed a red Ford Ranger. It had two female occupants – Kephart and Rauch – both of whom he thought had possible warrants. Murarik also saw the truck’s brake light was not functioning.

He initiated a traffic stop on Kate Street and identified the driver as Kephart and her front-seat passenger as Rauch, who was taken into custody on an active arrest warrant.

In the rear were two passengers who were identified as Guthrie and Lefort.  In plain view, Murarik observed two glass ball pipes with suspected drug residue, a clear tube with drug residue and a syringe cap.

Murarik conducted a probable cause search of the truck, which yielded approximately one ounce of suspected methamphetamine, two scales, numerous baggies and paraphernalia, suspected black tar heroin and numerous pills.

Murarik found that the amount of drugs was consistent with the sale and distribution of illegal drugs. The suspected methamphetamine was NIK tested and returned a positive result.

CLEARFIELD – A Mineral Springs man has been accused of pushing a child in a stroller on U.S. Route 322.

Mark David Peters, 38, has been charged by Trooper Zachary O. Moran of the Clearfield-based state police with felony endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person. His bail has been set at $10,000.

Peters waived his right to a preliminary hearing during centralized court Wednesday at the Clearfield County Jail.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred at approximately 6:11 p.m. Aug. 15 in Bradford Township, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling.

A witness called state police to report a bald male with a muscular build was pushing a small child in a stroller westbound on the double yellow lines along Route 322.

The male’s actions were impeding traffic and causing vehicles to swerve to miss the child, the witness said. They further related the male had left Route 322 and was traveling eastbound on Burkett Road.

Upon arrival on Burkett Road, state police observed a stroller matching the description outside Peters’ residence. Peters was found inside and allegedly admitted to walking with his girlfriend’s child along Route 322 earlier in the day.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about a burglary that occurred Aug. 16 on Tyler Road in Huston Township. During the incident, someone allegedly entered a camp and removed several items. State police are continuing their investigation at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at 814-371-4652.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash Aug. 21 in the area of Martin Street Extension and Sunset Ridge Road. According to the report, a red Mitsubishi Eclipse had impacted an embankment and was left unattended. Witnesses also had observed a female leaving the scene on foot. Later police assisted parole agents with the search of a room at the Economy Inn. A female who was present was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Police also determined she was the driver of the Eclipse. Charges are currently pending at this time.

Curwensville Borough

• Police received a report about an incident of harassment by communication from an Arizona resident. During the incident, a Curwensville female was allegedly sending harassing text messages. However, police ultimately determined the report was unfounded.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment. During the incident, a Grampian man allegedly threatened to harm a Clearfield resident in Curwensville. Upon investigation, police found the man had suffered from a mental health crisis and he was transported to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle in the area of Muller Street. Further, the vehicle was parked in the alleyway with its door open. Upon investigation, police found the occupants were talking and cleared the scene without taking any action.
• Police recovered a pair of eyeglasses at the Pacific Pride Fuel Station on Meadow Street. Anyone who lost their eyeglasses is asked to pick them up at the police station.
• State police assisted with a motor vehicle accident that occurred in the parking lot at South Side Subs. According to police, a driver lost control of his vehicle and it hit a retaining wall. Minor injuries were reported as a result.
• Police reported that a local business owner located a driver’s license and contacted police. Police retrieved the driver’s license and returned it to the owner.
• Police are reminding residents to keep their vehicles and homes secured at all times. According to police, there has been an ongoing issue with vehicle break-ins. Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to contact police at 814-236-3858 or 814-765-1533.

Sandy Township

• On Aug. 17, police received a report about an incident of trespassing at a West Liberty Road property. Upon arrival, officers spoke with a 65-year-old man who had been cutting grass and driving his lawn mower on the property. Police say his wife became argumentative, but the situation was handled without incident.
• Police are warning residents about a recent scam. According to police, on Aug. 17, an 81-year-old Treasure Lake man received a call from a person claiming to be a public defender. He was reportedly told his grandson needed bail money due to being involved in a wreck that caused damage to municipal property.  Police say he was instructed to purchase $2,100 worth of Google cards, which he did.  He later learned that he’d received a fraudulent call. Police would like to encourage residents to never attempt to pay for any transaction over the phone with gift cards, especially if the caller isn’t known to you.
• On Aug. 18, police received a report from a 63-year-old woman who stated that her 56-year-old nephew had been showing up at her place of employment and making her uncomfortable about a family situation.
• On Aug. 18, police received a report from a 76-year-old West Long Avenue woman who had observed a man hiding in the bushes across from her home. Officers searched the area and could not locate the man.
• Police received a report about a domestic dispute at a Wilson Avenue residence. According to police, a 53-year-old woman and her 46-year-old boyfriend had engaged in a dispute over him coming home late. They had settled down until she locked him out and asked him to leave. He then allegedly grabbed her by the neck while she was sitting on the porch. However, he had left prior to police arrival at the scene.
• Police received a report about a physical altercation between campers Aug. 18 at Cayman Landing. Treasure Lake Security directed officers to a campsite, where a 43-year-old man had cuts and scrapes all over him. He denied that there were any problems and claimed he had fallen down the steps. He became belligerent with police and his mother-in-law intervened. She related to police that there had been a family argument, which had been resolved. Police say those involved denied threatening anyone.
• Police responded to a two-vehicle crash Aug. 19. According to the report, a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old St. Marys woman pulled from a stop sign on Midway Drive onto Industrial Drive. Her vehicle entered into the path of another one driven by a 21-year-old DuBois woman, causing the two to collide. Severe damage and no injuries were reported to police.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at Rite Aid on Aug. 19.
• On Aug. 19, police received an animal complaint from a 41-year-old Wilson Avenue man. He stated a pit bull ran across the street and bit his puggle in the throat and rib area. Police say the incident was turned over to the dog law officer.
• Police received complaints about all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes traveling on South Main Street on Aug. 19. Officers observed a dirt bike and the rider fled the area.
• On Aug. 20, police received a report from Hampton Inn employees about a suspicious male. They stated he was walking in and out of the hotel and did not appear to be a guest. Officers located the male who explained he had been staying there with a friend. He said when they got into an argument, he decided to leave the room. Police handled the situation without incident.
• On Aug. 20, police received a report from a 56-year-old Hanes Drive man’s neighbors who stated that he was drunk and coming out of his apartment, which was causing problems. Officers located the man and handled the situation without incident.
• Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Aug. 21. According to the report, a 17-year-old Treasure Lake girl was traveling on South Brady Street and unable to stop her vehicle in time to avoid colliding with another one driven by a 29-year-old DuBois man. The girl told police she had the top down on her Jeep when it started raining and she was having a difficult time seeing. No injuries were reported and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• On Aug. 21, police received a report from a 57-year-old Dubois woman who stated she had received an e-mail that she thought was from her boss, requesting her to purchase $300 worth of gift cards for her. Then, she was directed to send a picture of the gift cards after she had scratched off the backs to show the numbers. She later learned it was an e-mail scam.
• Police received a report about a false alarm at Dollar General on Aug. 21.

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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.

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ExploreClarion photo

CLARION – Trial dates have been set for a Clarion man accused of killing a Curwensville woman in March of 2017.

According to District Attorney Mark Aaron, a jury trial has been set for Dec. 4 through Dec. 7 for 22-year-old Damien L. Ditz.

“Plea negotiations are still possible, but I expect this to go to trial,” said Aaron.

Ditz was charged with the following charges after a joint investigation between Marienville-based

state police and the Clarion County District Attorney’s Office:

– Criminal Homicide, Felony 1

– Aggravated Assault, Felony 1

– Aggravated Assault, Felony 2

– Simple Assault, Misdemeanor 2 (two counts)

– Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Misdemeanor 2

The charge of general criminal homicide encompasses murder of the first, second, and third degrees, as well as voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, according to the Clarion County District Attorney’s office.

Ditz is being held in the Clarion County Jail without bail.

Under Pennsylvania Law, bail is not set in a case where first-degree murder is charged, as life in prison is a possible punishment.

Details of the Shooting

According to the criminal complaint filed by Marienville-based state police Trooper Shawn Nicewonger, police were dispatched to 1110 Lake Lucy Rd., around 5:43 p.m., on Wednesday, March 1, 2017, for a report of a shooting.

Nicewonger was called to the scene along with various other state police personnel, including Corporal Milliard, Sergeant Bettwy, and Troopers Watters and Freeman.

While en route to the parking area of Hartzell Trailer Court, it was reported that a female, later identified as Seaburn, had died after being shot in the chest.

The criminal complaint states that Seaburn suffered a gunshot wound to the chest while seated in the front passenger side of her Suzuki SX4.

The victim’s boyfriend, identified as Damien Ditz, was in the driver’s seat when the gun was discharged.

Clarion County Coroner Terry Shaffer was dispatched around 6:15 p.m. and pronounced Seaburn dead at the scene. Autopsy results confirmed that Seaburn died as a result of a gunshot wound to the chest.

Ditz Interviewed at PSP Marienville

Ditz was interviewed on March 1, 2017, around 9 p.m. by Nicewonger and Watters.

During the interview, Ditz told police that he was driving Seaburn’s vehicle and making a left turn into Hartzell Trailer Court when a Glock 37 handgun slid off the dash and impacted the center console, causing it to discharge and strike the victim in the chest.

Ditz claimed that he placed the loaded gun on the dash the previous night, according to the criminal complaint.

The criminal complaint states that Ditz then altered his story, stating that when the firearm slid off the dash, he caught it. According to Ditz, the firearm then discharged as he attempted to place it in the back seat of the vehicle.

Police: Ditz Admits to Shooting Seaburn

Following a three-month-long investigation into the shooting, Ditz was asked to submit to a polygraph examination and an additional interview.

“This was requested to clarify details about the shooting as discrepancies were discovered in his account of the incident,” said Nicewonger in the criminal complaint.

Police say Ditz admitted his previous statements were false during a polygraph examination conducted by Troopers Higgins and Mallory at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2017.

Ditz explained that he and the victim were arguing about money as he was driving into the parking area of the trailer court.

According to the criminal complaint, Ditz told investigators that he was angry at the victim and “lost his temper.”

The criminal complaint states that Ditz disclosed to police that he pointed the gun at Seaburn, knowing that it was loaded, and it discharged.

Ditz then told police that he didn’t intentionally pull the trigger, according to the criminal complaint.

However, a release issued by Aaron indicated that investigators believe Ditz’s acts were, in fact, intentional.

“It is alleged that the evidence in the case indicates that Ditz intentionally killed Seaburn,” Aaron said.

Seaburn was a Clarion University student originally from the Curwensville area.

RELATED:

Attorney for Clarion Man Accused of Murder Works to Suppress Statements Made to Police

UPDATE: Court Documents Reveal Clarion Man Admitted to Fatally Shooting Woman After ‘Losing Temper’

Clarion Man Charged with Homicide in Fatal Shooting

Read more: http://www.explorejeffersonpa.com/.

DUBOIS – A Philadelphia man is facing additional charges for bringing methamphetamine into the area.

William Patrick Donnelly, 36, was charged by DuBois City police with a felony count of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, a misdemeanor count of intentional possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia as well as three traffic summaries after a traffic stop on Aug. 22.

This is his second drug case this summer.

In June, Donnelly was charged with manufacture/delivery/possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, dealing in proceeds of unlawful acts, criminal use of communication facility, two counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and deliver/intent to deliver drug paraphernalia for allegedly selling meth to a confidential informant in DuBois on June 1.

All these charges were held to court after a preliminary hearing on June 8. He posted $100,000 bail in that case on Aug. 7.

According to the affidavit of probable cause in the new case, an officer saw a Jeep Donnelly was driving slam on its brakes and slide through the intersection of Liberty Boulevard and North Park Place at 12:52 a.m. Aug. 22. He then initiated a traffic stop.

The officer knew Donnelly because of prior dealings with him. While Donnelly was getting his identification from his wallet, the officer allegedly saw a large amount of cash.

When asked why he was carrying such a large amount of money, Donnelly replied “bills man.” Later he stated that the money was for his bail for the previous drug case.

Donnelly was sweating profusely and acting very nervous and had symptoms that are consistent with the use of methamphetamine, the officer noted in his report. Because of this, Donnelly was asked to step out of the vehicle.

The officer asked if there was anything in the Jeep and Donnelly said “no, you can look I ain’t got nothing.” He consented to a search of the vehicle.

During the search, the officer found a clear crystal substance believed to be meth in a small plastic bag, police said.

A further search allegedly uncovered drug paraphernalia and additional small bags in the fuse box under the steering wheel.

When Donnelly was taken into custody he was reportedly carrying $4,948 in cash.

His preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday during centralized court.

State police at Ridgway

• State police received a report about an incident of retail theft that occurred Friday at the Wal-Mart store in St. Marys. During the incident, two Weedville women allegedly concealed and attempted to remove $74.46 worth of merchandise without paying for it. Both women were cited for the incident through the district court.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a theft that occurred Wednesday at the BP Gas Station. During the incident, two males were inside playing on the skill machines while the store attendant was outside cleaning the garbage cans. They made several trips over to the unattended counter and allegedly reached over and removed several scratch-off tickets. Police say that the tickets were $30 and $10 tickets.
• Police reported an incident of DUI that occurred Friday in the area of the Rockton Mountain Highway and Mill Road. According to police, a traffic stop was conducted and the male driver was found to be under the influence of alcohol. He was administered field sobriety tests and transported to the hospital for a blood draw. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police received a report about an incident of theft that occurred Friday at the Lawrence Park Village. During the incident, a male and female were allegedly attempting to gain entry to a passenger vehicle parked at the apartment complex when they ultimately broke the rear, driver’s side window. Police say they took clothing and personal items before fleeing into the woods.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about a suspicious male and female in the 500 block of West Weber Avenue. A witness told police they knocked on her door and then left. Police responded to the area but were unable to locate the described couple.
• Police received a report about a 911 hang-up call in the 200 block of First Street. Upon arrival, police learned a small child had dialed the phone, and that everything was OK.
• Police responded to a minor motor vehicle crash in the parking lot at Penn State DuBois. Upon arrival, an officer assisted with the exchange of information; both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Police responded to a reported alarm in the 100 block of West DuBois Avenue. Upon arrival, police determined it was a false alarm.
• Police received a report about a male who took numerous pills and then left the area of the first block of Susquehanna Street. Upon arrival, police searched the area for the male, but they were unable to locate him.
• While on routine patrol in the area of Parkway Drive, an officer noticed a busted picnic table in Pavilion A. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• While on routine patrol, police observed a motorist commit a traffic violation at the intersection of West Long Avenue and North Brady Street. According to police, the vehicle was stopped and its driver was identified as a 27-year-old Rockton woman. She was allegedly found to be under the influence of alcohol. Police placed her under arrest for suspected DUI and transported her to the hospital for a legal blood draw. She was released to a sober adult with charges pending at this time.
• Police were requested to contact a female with regards to harassment in the 100 block of South Franklin Street. When contact was made, she related she had been receiving text messages from her ex-boyfriend. She wanted for the messages and the harassment to stop. Police made contact with the male, warned him of the complaint and he agreed to cease his actions.
• Police received a report about an alleged incident of theft that occurred at a business in the 400 block of Beaver Drive. Police were told the female suspect had left on foot but were provided with a physical description. She was located on Beaver Drive and it was determined she’d stolen merchandise from the business. Police also found she had an active warrant for her arrest through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Department. When this was learned, the female attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended a short distance later. She was lodged in county jail on the warrant; theft-related charges are pending at this time.

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CLEARFIELD – Two people will face criminal charges following a drug investigation in Clearfield Borough.

According to a news release issued by police, a search warrant was executed Aug. 24 at 10 N. Fifth St. Police seized methamphetamine, a firearm and over $2,500 in cash.

Amy Krause, 39, of Clearfield was taken into custody by officers from the county’s Probation Department. Jeremiah Schuler, 37, of North Cambria was found to have a warrant for his arrest through the St. Marys police and Pennsylvania State Parole.

Charges of possession of controlled substances and possession with intent to deliver controlled substances are currently pending laboratory analysis.

BELLEFONTE – While processing/sorting inmate requests slips Tuesday morning, an employee at the State Correctional Institution at Rockview began to feel ill.

She was taken to the prison’s medical area where she was assessed, and an ambulance was summoned, according to a news release issued by the Department of Corrections.

Also, another employee, who was sorting mail, began to feel light headed. She also was taken to the prison’s medical area for assessment, officials said.

Officials said, “The employees both work out of the same building, which now has been evacuated and sealed off. The prison’s safety manager is in the process of assessing the area.

“The prison was already locked down for a maintenance project and the searching of one housing unit. The Pennsylvania State Police was notified.”

BELLEFONTE – On Aug. 27, State Correction Institution at Benner Township security staff discovered 82.47 grams of K2 in a non-contact visiting booth at the facility, reported the Department of Corrections today.

“An investigation is under way. This discovery shows that searches of our facilities by our staff is working to thwart to flow of drugs into our prisons,” officials said.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about child endangerment Aug. 8 on Sulgar Road in Pine Creek Township. According to police, two children – a 6-year-old and a 5-year-old – were abandoned and walking along the roadway. A passing motorist stopped and checked on the safety and well-being of the children; the motorist later contacted state police. Upon investigation, it was found a 54-year-old Brookville man had abandoned the children along the roadway without any regard for their safety. An arrest warrant was obtained and the man was taken into custody without incident. He’s facing criminal charges of endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a suspicious person on Daisy Street.
• Police responded to an automatic alarm on Duke Street.
• Police received a report about a known male who was attempting to enter parked vehicles on East Locust Street.
• Police received a report about a suspicious person on Ogden Avenue.
• Police arrested Patricia Soltesz, 52, Clearfield for allegedly violating an active Protection from Abuse order.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about the alleged violation of a Protection from Abuse order that occurred Sunday in Hyde. Charges have been filed against 40-year-old Timothy Amon.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment that occurred Saturday in the Save A Lot parking lot. According to police, a 37-year-old Clearfield man repeatedly attempted to contact the victim at her workplace. After her shift, he allegedly showed up in the parking lot and operated his vehicle at a high rate of speed toward her and other employees before stopping abruptly. Police say he attempted to go after the victim, but she went back inside the store and he returned to his vehicle, kicking it before driving off. Charges are to be filed against him as a result of the incident.
• Police received a report about child endangerment Monday at Lawrence Park Village. According to police, witnesses said a 7-year-old girl was asking her neighbors for food. She had reportedly been wearing the same clothes for the past few days. Additionally, police were advised the girl’s mother is “always sleeping and never takes care of her.” When police arrived on-scene with Children & Youth Services, the child was believed to be malnourished. Police found her mother had warrants and she was taken for arraignment; several others were residing at the apartment and found to have been trespassing.

BRADFORD TOWNSHIP – A wanted 36-year-old Clearfield man, Kevin Straw, was jailed on a warrant Tuesday and is facing charges for drug possession and resisting arrest.

According to the Clearfield-based state police, a traffic stop was conducted at 10:31 a.m. on Post Office Road in Bradford Township. It was found Straw had active warrants for his arrest.

While he was being taken into custody, state police say Straw resisted and fled on foot into a wooded area. A pursuit ensued and Straw was apprehended a short time later.

He was found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and a prohibited offensive weapon. He was lodged in county jail on a warrant.

State police will file charges of drug possession, use/possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest and prohibited offensive weapon, plus summary traffic violations through the district court in Kylertown.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police investigated a report of assault that occurred June 10 at a West First Street residence in Burnside Borough. During the incident, a 22-year-old Glen Campbell man and a 19-year-old La Jose man allegedly engaged in an altercation. However, the men refused to have charges filed on each other.

Lawrence Township

• On Aug. 8, police received a report that the night deposit for Burger King had been stolen from the restaurant. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• On Aug. 8, police received a report about a suspicious person on Valley View Drive. According to police, the male, who was identified as Eric Harris, 28, was wanted through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office. Police encountered Harris on Legion Road and he was taken into custody. He was allegedly found to be in possession of numerous items of drug paraphernalia. Charges were filed through the district court.

CLEARFIELD – An aide has been accused of inappropriately touching a female student in the locker room at the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center.

Edna M. Spencer, 59, of Clearfield has been charged by Officer Zachary S. Cowan of the Lawrence Township police with a felony count of corruption of minors/defendant age 18 years or above and a misdemeanor count of indecent assault.

Spencer waived her right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. Her bail is currently set at $5,000 unsecured.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred March 15 at the CCCTC, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

Cowan received a CY report detailing an incident that occurred in the female locker room. Spencer allegedly “brushed” her hands on a juvenile student’s unclothed sides while making an inappropriate comment.

The incident occurred in front of two other juvenile students and Spencer was confronted by a school administrator. She reportedly admitted to having conducted in the said behavior and was placed on administrative leave.

Cowan contacted school administrator, Fred Redden, in order to obtain more information. Redden provided statements from three students, all of whom reported several incidents of misconduct on the part of Spencer.

Redden was asked why Spencer was using the locker room’s bathroom facilities. He was unsure why she wasn’t using the bathrooms she should be, which are located in the school’s hallway.

On March 29, Cowan returned to the CCCTC to speak with Redden again. He provided a written statement regarding the incident, as well as the admission that Spencer had given him.

Cowan asked about the nature of Spencer’s job at the school, and Redden explained that she was an aide who accompanied a male student there. Cowan proceeded to contact the three students.

A female student told Cowan that Spencer had touched her sides while her shirt was off and while making an inappropriate comment to her. This was corroborated by two other student witnesses.

All three students went on to say that Spencer’s actions made them feel uncomfortable. They said she only used the locker room’s restroom when female students are inside, and she also stayed to watch them change into their uniforms.

According to the students, Spencer had started doing this at the beginning of the school year, and it had continued to happen on a daily basis.

The students said that the incidents had escalated from her watching them and making inappropriate comments to inappropriate touching.

Because Spencer’s actions made them so uncomfortable, the students reported her to a teacher and then ultimately to Redden. Cowan had the students provide detailed written statements.

On April 2, Cowan interviewed Spencer at the township police station. She admitted that she had touched the one female student but claimed it was only with her fingertips on her sides.

Spencer demonstrated the act and also admitted to making the inappropriate comment, which she saw as a compliment.

She continually commented that there wasn’t any intent, which Cowan called a common tactic used by defendants trying to conceal the truth.

Spencer said she made the inappropriate comment to the student one time and only because she “admired” the student’s figure.

She initially denied inappropriately touching any other female students but did admit she had touched some girls’ back shoulder area.

Later in the interview, Spencer said she had touched a student’s lower back to help her adjust her clothing. She did admit to touching students’ legs but only because she liked the fabric of their pants.

Spencer, when asked, didn’t provide a reason for why she used the locker room’s restroom facilities over the staff facilities. She further denied any sort of wrongdoing on her part in the locker room.

She did eventually admit she should not have made the comment she had to the student. She was asked to demonstrate how she touched the female student again, and the second time she allegedly used her whole hands, not just her fingertips.

When Cowan pointed out the change in her hand gesture, Spencer claimed that the first one was the more accurate one. Cowan ultimately concluded that Spencer was being “deceptive” and attempting to protect herself.

Following the interview with the defendant, Cowan contacted Redden to clarify information. Redden requested to elaborate on how Spencer had admitted to touching the student. He said Spencer demonstrated the act as a “brushing motion with open hands.”

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Chantell Renee Demi (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Woodland woman has negotiated a plea agreement in relation to her involvement with the August of 2017 murder of Chase Anderson, 19, of Curwensville.

Chantell Renee Demi, 27, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder, kidnapping to inflict injury or terror, conspiracy/kidnapping, abuse of corpse, conspiracy/abuse of corpse and tampering with evidence.

In a second case, she has pleaded guilty to arson, conspiracy/arson, conspiracy to aid arson, tampering with evidence and conspiracy/tampering with evidence. In a third case, she has pleaded guilty to drug- and firearms-related charges.

Demi will receive a minimum sentence of 20 to 40 years of incarceration. She is to cooperate with the commonwealth in the prosecution of her co-defendants as part of the agreement.

Though she’s scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 2, Demi has agreed to waive the provisions of any time period in which she must be sentenced.

In early April, Kenja Kasheem Tew, 22, of Glen Richey and Denny Scott Bailey, 38, of Woodland were charged with criminal homicide, assault, kidnapping to inflict injury or terror, conspiracy and related charges for Anderson’s death.

According to previously-published GANT News reports, the investigation began when Anderson’s mother reported him missing Aug. 22, 2017 to the Curwensville Borough Police Department.

Through witness interviews, it was learned that Tew had allegedly made comments that Anderson was “not coming back alive” or “not coming back at all.”

After Tew was in custody, he took investigators from the Pennsylvania State Police to Anderson’s burnt and decomposed body in a wooded area in Pike Township.

On Sept. 19, 2017, Bailey showed investigators where he’d buried the murder weapons near his residence.

Investigators also learned that Tew and Bailey had used the “ruse” of a drug package to get Anderson to the wooded area where they murdered him. Once there, they assaulted him; each alleged the other stabbed Anderson several times before burning his body.

Demi told investigators that she went to the store and bought duct tape, garbage bags, etc., for Bailey. She admitted to picking out the location and helping Tew and Bailey clean up when they got home after the murder.

Later Demi helped destroy the vehicle that Bailey and Tew used to take Anderson into the woods. She was allegedly assisted by Joseph Ralston, 38, of Curwensville, who has also been charged for his involvement in the cover up.

The cases against Tew, Bailey and Ralston are still pending in the Clearfield County Court of Common Pleas.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man has been accused of having sexual relations with a teenage girl.

Brock A. Bowman, 19, has been charged by Officer Zachary S. Cowan of the Lawrence Township police with aggravated indecent assault, statutory sexual assault, disseminate explicit sexual material to a minor, corruption of minors, criminal use of communication facility and indecent assault/person less than 16 years.

Bowman waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. His bail remains set at $250,000 monetary.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the girl’s mother contacted police with regards to a reported violation of an active “no contact order.” Specifically, she said Bowman was prohibited from contacting her 15-year-old daughter.

She said she was informed that Bowman and the victim had been in contact with each other over the weekend of May 12 after he was bailed out of jail. She said this was confirmed when she spoke with her daughter.

During an interview with police, the victim admitted to hanging out with Bowman at his residence and she detailed what happened while she was there. She initially claimed that they had only kissed several times but was unable to provide an exact number.

When questioned further by Cowan, she allegedly admitted that she and Bowman had previously engaged in sexual relations on other occasions, but not that particular weekend.

She explained that Bowman was already aware he was in trouble and under investigation for sexual assault by the Sandy Township police.

In addition, the victim admitted to being in contact with Bowman via cell phone. She then gave consent for Cowan to search through its contents, providing the passcode and indicating there could be nude pictures of her, which she had previously sent to Bowman.

The phone contained various pictures of Bowman’s private area. There were other pictures of his private area that the victim had captured screenshots of during FaceTime video sessions between their electronic devices.

Upon further investigation, police found nude pictures of the victim, partially nude pictures of them together and of them engaged in sexual acts. There was allegedly a video showing the victim and Bowman having sex.

The explicit materials were taken from the devices for evidential purposes. It was dated from December of 2017 through April of the current year, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

During an interview June 19, Bowman told police that he and the victim “have been together” since she was approximately 12 years old.

However, he claimed that they didn’t begin to engage in sexual relations until December. He allegedly said that he had sex with her approximately five times, even though he was aware of her age and that it was illegal.

When asked why he continued to have a relationship with the victim after the issuance of a “no contact order,” Bowman said he “loved her” and she was his “best friend.”

Bowman was cooperative with Cowan until he was requested to produce a written statement as part of the investigation. He told the officer that he did not “want to get into any more trouble.”

In a second case, Bowman has been charged by Sgt. Nathan Curry of the Clearfield Borough police with felony manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, misdemeanor intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia and two summaries.

Bowman also waived his right to a preliminary hearing in this case, and for this his bail remains set at $25,000 monetary.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an incident of disorderly conduct that occurred Wednesday on Washington Avenue. During the incident, police were stopped for a couple involved in a verbal altercation. Officers advised the woman if it continued, she could be arrested. The couple agreed to settle their differences civilly and left the scene; there wasn’t any other action taken by police.
• Police received a report about child endangerment that occurred Aug. 12 at Lawrence Park Village. Witnesses told police that a 7-year-old child had been left outside her residence for hours. They said the child was “hungry,” “dirty” and being “neglected.” It was noted there was a second, similar complaint made against the female, and charges are currently pending.

Sandy Township

• On Monday police received a report about a domestic dispute involving a 28-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man, both of Mayport. Upon arrival, contact was made with the woman who stated the man was upset because he had rented her a vehicle and she had failed to return it on time. During a routine check, police discovered the 33-year-old man who was with the woman had a warrant out of Pittsburgh. He was taken into custody and transported to county jail.
• Police received a report about a dog being inside a vehicle Tuesday at the Commons. However, the vehicle and dog were gone upon police arrival.
• On Tuesday police received a report from a 32-year-old Circle Road woman who stated that someone had used her debit card to withdraw $60 from an ATM machine at Snappy’s Convenience Store. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about kids riding bikes and skateboards in the middle of Bee Line Highway on Tuesday. However, the kids were gone upon police arrival.
• On Tuesday police received a report about a dog being inside a vehicle with a window cracked in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Prior to police response, the witness called back saying the owner had returned.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man has been accused of leading a state trooper on a pursuit while under the influence.

Jade Allen Lines, 28, has been charged by Trooper Derek T. Southern of the Clearfield-based state police with felony fleeing or attempting to elude an officer and misdemeanor intentional possession of a controlled substance, DUI/controlled substance and resisting arrest, plus 16 summaries.

Lines waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. His bail has been set at $25,000 monetary.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred Aug. 26 on River Road near Bowman’s Hill Road in Lawrence Township, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

The trooper was conducting patrol when he observed a gray-colored Chevrolet Equinox traveling to the right side of the white fog line. He turned his unit around to begin to pursue the vehicle.

He then activated his emergency lights to attempt to conduct a traffic stop. However, the driver began to flee at a high rate of speed.

The trooper said a township officer was positioned in his unit along the roadway and the vehicle came through traveling at 75 miles-per-hour in a 35-miles-per-hour zone.

The driver continued to flee onto Bowman’s Hill Road. He then made a right-hand turn onto Goshen Road without stopping at a properly posted stop sign. He also failed to signal.

On Goshen Road, the trooper was able to catch up with the vehicle. The driver reportedly continued to operate it in a “reckless” manner while turning onto Barneyville Road and immediately onto Thompson Road, which is a dead end.

The male driver proceeded to exit his vehicle and flee on foot. This, state police said, caused his vehicle to drive into a garage.

The trooper exited his patrol unit and pursued the male on foot through a yard and into the woods.  When he re-entered the yard, he tripped in a ditch near the trooper’s unit.

The male, identified as Lines, was taken into custody and field sobriety tests were administered to him. It was determined that he had allegedly been driving under the influence.

Lines was subsequently transported to the Clearfield Penn Highlands Hospital for a legal blood draw. A search of his vehicle allegedly turned up a small amount of methamphetamine, which Lines said belonged to him.