CLEARFIELD – A suspect in a reported armed robbery at a local convenience store and a multi-jurisdiction crime spree is in police custody.

One incident occurred at 11:51 p.m. Monday at the Sheetz store, located at 14259 Clearfield-Shawville Hwy., Clearfield, according to a news release issued by Lawrence Township police.

In commission of this crime, the male allegedly brandished a handgun to an employee at the register.  However, he fled the store without taking anything when another employee unexpectedly entered this area.

Police say the suspect was involved in a large string of crimes across multiple jurisdictions, including a convenience store robbery in Kylertown.

He was found a short time later by state police at Rockview in the Snow Shoe area and taken into custody. Charges are currently pending at this time.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP – State police at DuBois are warning area residents following a recent phone scam.

According to state police, on Feb. 6, an elderly Falls Creek man received phone calls from someone impersonating a worker with a company that previously provided him services.

The caller told him that he was overcharged for those services and would be issued a refund. So, he granted access to his computer and logged into his bank account.

The caller “blacked” the man’s screen and allegedly added fraudulent deposits into his online bank account.  Twice, he claimed he’d inadvertently added $2,200 instead of a $200 refund.

The man was subsequently directed to send $4,100 in cash to a post office in New York, which he did. Later, he discovered fraudulent funds had been deposited into his bank account.

State police are urging residents to be conscientious about conducting business over the phone. People are also reminded that businesses will not ask you to send cash or gift cards through the mail.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about a male slumped over in his vehicle on Clearfield Street. Upon arrival, it was learned that he’d fallen asleep while waiting for someone. Police didn’t detect any signs of impairment.
• Police received a report about a male who was causing problems on North Fifth Street. Upon arrival, police found he was in need of mental health treatment. Police subsequently transported him to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police responded to a minor vehicle collision on North Third Street. According to the report, one vehicle coasted backward, striking another vehicle.  No injuries were reported as a result and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Police were contacted regarding a dispute over property. However, police found the dispute was civil in nature.
• Police assisted a resident who needed fingerprinted for employment.
• Police received a report about a disturbance on Reed Street. Upon arrival on-scene, police could hear a female engaged in an argument while they were still outside. As a result, she will be cited for her actions.
• Police were dispatched to Bigler Avenue for a male who was reportedly walking in and out of traffic, which was causing a hazard. Police searched the area but were unable to locate anyone.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment along East Market Street. Police were able to handle the situation on scene.
• Police were dispatched to the hospital for a male patient who was being disorderly. Upon arrival, police were able to speak to the male and calm him down.
• Police stopped a vehicle along Bridge Street and discovered the driver had multiple warrants. However, she was able to locate someone to satisfy the warrants.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about an incident of disorderly conduct Friday at the Clearfield Area Junior-Senior High School. During the incident, a 15-year-old male student allegedly made threats and was harassing other students. Charges have been filed through juvenile probation.
• Police reported that an archery target was located Monday in the area of Lawrence Avenue in Hyde. Anyone who is missing the target is asked to please contact township police to retrieve it.

Sandy Township

• Police reported a false alarm Friday at Red Lobster.
• Police reported a false alarm Friday at Taco Bell.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash on Friday. According to the report, a vehicle driven by a 57-year-old Clearfield woman hit another in the Wendy’s lot while she backed out from her parking space. Afterward, she left the scene without providing any information; however, a witness obtained her plate number. Police were able to contact the woman and handle the situation without incident; charges have been filed as a result of the crash.
• Police received a report about a suspicious vehicle parked on David Reed Road on Saturday. Upon arrival, officers found a 29-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man in a compromising position.  They were advised to leave the area.
• On Sunday police received a report about two young males who were walking south on state Route 255 near Treasure Lake. Officers located them near Snappy’s Convenience Store and transported them to their home on Salada Road.
• Police received a report about a disturbance Saturday at a Treasure Lake residence. According to police, a male claimed his roommate “came at him with a knife” while they were arguing over how long it was taking for remodeling work. No injuries were reported to police; the knife could not be found. The roommates agreed to separate for the remainder of the night.
• On Sunday Treasure Lake Security reported to police that someone had damaged the Little Flipper Lake sign.
• Police reported a false alarm Sunday at the VA Clinic.

DuBois City

• Police encountered a male Sunday on Liberty Boulevard and determined he was under the influence of alcohol. He was subsequently cited for public drunkenness and related violations.
• Police encountered a male Sunday on East Park Avenue and determined he was under the influence of alcohol. He was subsequently cited for public drunkenness.

Tyler Jamal Newman (Photo provided to GANT News partner WJAC-TV by Clearfield County Jail)

KYLERTOWN – A Gifford, Pa. man is facing charges for allegedly robbing a local convenience store at gunpoint.

Tyler Jamal Newman, 19, has been charged by Trooper David Patrick of the Clearfield-based state police with felony counts of robbery and theft by unlawful taking.

He’s also been charged with misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats and recklessly endangering another person, plus summary harassment. His bail has been set at $250,000.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, at approximately 12:20 a.m. Tuesday, troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at Kwik Fill in Kylertown.

On-scene an employee said just minutes earlier, an African American male entered the store and brandished what appeared to be a silver and black semi-automatic handgun.

The male allegedly pointed the weapon straight at the employee and stated “give me all the money in the register. Don’t worry I’m not going to shoot you; it’s nothing personal.”

The employee said he gave the male approximately $200 to $300 in cash from the register. He said the male also asked for a pack of Newport 100s.

While he retrieved the pack, he said the male stated, “Not to be greedy but give me a Bic lighter, too.” He provided troopers with a physical description, saying the male fled in a silver Nissan Xterra.

A be-on-the-look-out alert was sent out on the suspect vehicle, which was believed to be headed south on state Route 53, to the surrounding areas.

At approximately 12:58 a.m., Rockview-based state troopers encountered the vehicle at a truck stop in Snow Shoe. Inside was a male matching the robbery suspect’s physical description.

A “hit confirmation” was sent out and investigating troopers found out the vehicle was stolen out of Ridgway, according to the affidavit.

Troopers subsequently identified the male as Newman and inside the vehicle were a silver and black bb gun and $286 in cash. He was taken into custody and to the Clearfield barracks.

During the transport, Newman was read his Miranda Warnings, and he reportedly confessed to robbing the Kwik Fill store. Troopers recorded his confession on both audio and video.

Newman is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 20 during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail.

Denny Scott Bailey (Provided photo)

CLEARFIELD – A Woodland man accused of the murdering Chase Anderson of Curwensville was in court again Tuesday.

Denny Scott Bailey, 39, was charged in April with criminal homicide, kidnap to inflict terror, conspiracy and related charges in connection with Anderson’s death.

Anderson was reported missing by his mother in August of 2017, but the investigation took a sad turn after Kenja Kasheem Tew, 23, allegedly made comments to witnesses that Anderson was “not coming back.”

Once Tew was in custody, he led police to Anderson’s burnt body in a wooded part of Pike Township.

Testimony at the preliminary hearing revealed that Tew and Bailey lured Anderson to the remote area and then fought with him. Each of them claimed the other stabbed Anderson and burned the body.

Anderson suffered multiple stab wounds, his throat was slit and his nose was fractured, according to testimony from former County Coroner Mike Morris.

On Tuesday a motion for the substitution of counsel in Bailey’s case was discussed before President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman.

Joseph Ryan, who is representing Bailey, stated that his co-counsel, Robert Bell of Indiana, has not been able to help him.

Ryan explained this is his first capital case and he needs someone with experience to guide him.  Since Bell was unable to provide assistance, Ryan said he contacted DuBois Attorney Gary Knaresboro.

Bailey also has concerns about Bell, Ryan said. Bailey complained that he has never gotten any correspondence from Bell and has not even met him.

Ryan asked that Bell be removed from the case and Knaresboro be appointed as co-counsel in his place.

District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. voiced his opposition to this, claiming this was a “delay tactic” and “game playing.” He speculated that the defense will now say they need more time and ask to delay jury selection in this case, which is currently scheduled for Aug. 8.

Ryan defended his position saying, when he needed help filing previous motions, Bell was not available but Knaresboro was able to help.

“This is not a delay tactic,” Ryan said, adding that he is only trying to do the best for his client.

When contacted via phone, Bell stated that he had no objection to being replaced. Ammerman then granted the motion to remove him from the case.

Turning his attention to replacing Bell, Ammerman asked Knaresboro if he would have enough time to put into this defense with his other responsibilities. Knaresboro said yes, adding that if he didn’t, he wouldn’t take the case.

Knaresboro was then appointed as co-counsel for Bailey.

Others charged in this case including Tew, are Chantell Demi and Joseph Ralston. All of their cases are still pending with Demi agreeing to cooperate with the prosecution.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about an incident of terroristic threats that occurred Feb. 2 on Curtin Street in Osceola Mills. State police say two brothers – ages 23 and 15 years old – were involved in a physical altercation. During the incident, the younger brother went into a bedroom and came back with a BB gun. He allegedly pointed it at his brother; charges have been filed through the juvenile system.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime between 4 p.m. Friday and 10:18 a.m. Saturday on Main Street in Chest Township. During the incident, someone allegedly cut the hair off the tails of two, different horses belonging to a Mahaffey woman. Then, they fled the area.

Lawrence Township

• Police reported on a hit-and-run crash that occurred Monday on the Clearfield-Curwensville Highway. According to police, a gold Chevrolet Tracker was traveling eastbound near the Timberland Federal Credit Union. The driver told police a gray Dodge Neon was traveling westbound but moved too far to the left across the turning lane and into the eastbound lane. The Neon reportedly struck the Tracker, causing damage to its driver’s side rear corner area. Once the Neon left the scene, so did the driver of the Tracker. No injuries were reported to police.

CLEARFIELD – A Philipsburg man has been accused of choking and biting his wife during a domestic assault.

Paul Fredrick Lucas, 30, has been charged by Trooper John A. Bacher IV of the Clearfield-based state police with a felony count of strangulation, a misdemeanor count each of terroristic threats and simple assault and a summary count of harassment.

Lucas waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. His bail is currently set at $50,000.

The charges stem from a domestic incident that occurred Jan. 26 at a Hill Street apartment in Chester Hill Borough, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Jerome Nevling.

A woman told police she and her husband, Lucas, were involved in an argument, which escalated. He allegedly choked her several items with both hands wrapped around her neck; this impeded her ability to breath and she thought she’d pass out.

While he was on top of her, he covered her mouth so that she couldn’t scream. He also bit her in the face, and hit it off the floor, she told Bacher. The woman said Lucas threatened to kill her during the assault.

Bacher said he observed the woman with obvious physical injuries still visible Jan. 31, when he was dispatched to meet with her at the Clearfield County Crossroads.

Lucas was taken into custody at the apartment. He allegedly admitted that he grabbed his wife around the neck and bit her in the face during a physical altercation Jan. 26.

CLEARFIELD – A Clearfield man is facing charges after being found in possession of drugs and various items of paraphernalia.

Marcus Homer Waltmon, 40, has been charged by the Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, with two felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver.

He’s also been charged with two misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance and one misdemeanor count of use/possession of drug paraphernalia.

Waltmon waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. His bail is currently set at $100,000 monetary.

The charges stem from a search warrant executed at Waltmon’s residence Oct. 17 in Clearfield Borough, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Mike Morris.

Waltmon was found in possession of 10 bags of suspected methamphetamine and two containers of suspected marijuana, plus four bags of an unknown substance.

He also had syringes, four digital scales, rubber bands, an assortment of smoking devices, a pricing sheet and cash, state police said.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report about a theft/bad checks on Jan. 15 from St. Agnes’ bingo in Morrisdale. In commission of the crime, someone allegedly passed two checks that were returned for insufficient funds. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

Clearfield Borough

• Police responded to a reported minor motor vehicle crash on Dorey Street after a plow truck struck a parked car.
• Police served several warrants on a female who had failed to respond to her citations.
• Police assisted two buses that were stuck along Cemetery Road. On-scene police were assisted by the borough’s road crew, PennDOT and Clearfield Fire Department.
• Police would like to remind Clearfield residents that there is a parking ordinance in place. It requires vehicles, which are parked along the street, to be moved every 48 hours.

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.

Lawrence Township

• Police reported on a traffic stop that occurred Thursday on Mount Joy Road. According to police, the driver – Shane Irwin, 24, of Clearfield – had an active warrant through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office; his passenger – James Witherite, 21, of Olanta – had an active warrant through the Curwensville Borough police. Upon investigation, police determined Irwin was under the influence of various controlled substances. Police say Witherite was in possession of several controlled substances and paraphernalia, and a search of the vehicle yielded more controlled substances that belonged to Irwin. Irwin was arrested for DUI and transported to the hospital for a legal blood draw. Both Irwin and Witherite were housed in county jail on their warrants; charges are currently pending against both men.
• Police received a report about a Protection from Abuse order violation Thursday on Industrial Park Road. During the incident, a 43-year-old Woodland man allegedly contacted a female at her place of employment after a PFA order was issued against him. Police say he also contacted the female approximately six or seven times for which he was arrested and housed in county jail.

DuBois City

• On Wednesday police received a report from a female who lost $125 in cash at the Goodwill store on North Main Street. According to police, she put an envelope containing the cash on top of a gumball machine but then forgot to pick it back up. Later, the female returned to the store and discovered it was gone. The female also reported the incident to the store’s assistant manager after which video surveillance was reviewed. It reportedly showed a female picking up the envelope and placing it into the bags she was carrying. Police went to the store, were able to get the receipt for this female and then contact her. She said she had found the envelope and would return it to the station.
• On Wednesday police received a report about a possible rabid red fox in a resident’s driveway. They were advised animals are hungry and in search of food because of the ice and snow. However, the resident said they wanted to make police aware; it was also noted that the Game commission was notified prior to police.
• Police observed a red Jeep Wrangler parked at Cataldo’s Collision on Wednesday; it was running, but there wasn’t anyone around. Upon a search, police located the vehicle’s owner inside, and everything was determined to be OK.
• While inside the Sheetz store Wednesday on North Brady Street, a male asked police about the location of the Starburst candy. He was directed to the candy rack where he apparently concealed items in his pocket. He looked up and realized officers were watching him, so he placed the items back on the shelf. He walked toward officers, looked around and returned to the candy rack. Again, police observed him concealing items in his coat pocket; he allegedly left the store with the unpaid items. Police stopped the male in the parking lot, recovered the stolen items and returned them to Sheetz. Police advised the male he would face charges for the incident.
• Police received a report about a stray dog Wednesday in the 300 block of South Highland Street. Police were able to follow the dog’s tracks to the 300 block of Olive Avenue. Upon arrival, police saw there was a second-floor apartment with its door wide open with the lights on. Once inside, they announced their presence several times until a couple appeared from another room. A male told police it was his dog and that he wasn’t sure how the door got open. Police returned the dog to him.

Sandy Township

• On Wednesday police received a report from a 43-year-old Punxsutawney woman who stated that while her vehicle was parked at Ruby Tuesday’s, it was hit and damaged by a silver van that pulled out beside her vehicle. The driver left the scene without stopping and providing information; moderate damage was reported to police.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash Thursday. According to police, a vehicle driven by a 38-year-old Grampian woman failed to stop in time to avoid hitting the vehicle in front of her while traveling on Shafer Road. This caused that vehicle to hit the vehicle in front of it that was stopped in traffic. Minor damage and no injuries were reported as a result.
• On Thursday police received a report from a woman who stated that while she was traveling on state Route 255 in the vicinity of Sabula Lake, a chunk of ice fell off a white pick-up traveling in the opposite lane. It broke her windshield, she told police.

State police at Clearfield

• State police reported on a drug-related DUI that occurred Saturday in the area of Main Street and Belsena Road in Bigler Township. During a traffic stop, a male was allegedly determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. He was subsequently taken into custody for the suspicion of DUI.
• State police received a report about a theft that occurred Feb. 8 on the Ginter-Morann Highway in Gulich Township. During the incident, someone allegedly removed a log splitter from the victim’s Smithmill residence. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at 814-857-3800.
• State police received a report about an incident of harassment Sunday at the Lithuanian Club in Osceola Borough. During the incident, a person grabbed another’s shirt, and they were allegedly struck in the face. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is still ongoing.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief that occurred sometime Friday or Saturday on Wishaw Road in Winslow Township. During the incident, someone allegedly damaged four mailboxes. State police are continuing their investigation at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact 814-371-4652.

Clearfield Borough

• Police assisted emergency personnel with a patient along West Locust Street.
• Police received a report about someone using a dumpster that wasn’t supposed to. However, police found the person did have permission to use the dumpster from the landlord.
• Police were flagged down by a male along Bridge Street regarding reported threats. According to police, the male had an active warrant and was taken to county jail. However, police say that the report about the threats was unfounded.
• Police assisted a motorist who had locked their keys inside their vehicle along Leavy Avenue.
• Police were requested to check the welfare of someone sleeping in a vehicle along East Market Street. Police made contact with a female and found she was on probation. The Probation Office was contacted and she was transported to the jail.
• Police received a report about a theft after mail was allegedly removed from a mailbox along Turnpike Avenue.
• Police received a report about a male who was on the front step of the caller’s Weaver Street residence. Upon arrival, police were able to track the male in the snow and found him along Stewart Avenue. He was subsequently transported to the hospital for a mental health evaluation.
• Police received a report about a male who was apparently intoxicated and kneeling on the sidewalk in the area of Bridge and North Third streets. Upon arrival, police were unable to locate the male.
• Police conducted a traffic stop along Bridge Street and discovered the driver had an active warrant through the Lawrence Township police. Township police responded and the male satisfied the warrant.
• Police arrested a male for DUI after he was stopped for a traffic violation along North Front Street.
• Police located an open door at a business along East Market Street. The owner was notified by police and responded to secure the door.
• Police responded to a minor crash in the area of West Front and Nichols streets. According to police, a driver backed their vehicle into another, causing minor damage. No injuries were reported as a result, and both vehicles were driven from the scene.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a retail theft in progress Friday at Rural King. According to police, the suspect fled at a high rate of speed after a confrontation with employees. Officers located the vehicle in the area of Palmer Street and upon investigation, they determined a 32-year-old Clearfield woman allegedly stole a pair of blue jeans valued at $64.95. Police say she disposed of them in a trash can outside the store after being caught. The jeans were retrieved and returned to Rural King. Police cited the woman for retail theft, careless driving and operating a vehicle with an expired inspection.
• Police received a report about several retail theft incidents that occurred between Jan. 21 and Feb. 14 at the Wal-Mart in Clearfield. While shopping at the store, a 44-year-old Woodland man allegedly failed to scan a total of 80 items. Charges are currently pending at this time.

DuBois City

• Police received a report about an attempted break-in Friday at a North High Street business. Upon arrival, officers were unable to locate anyone in the area and didn’t observe any evidence to support the report.
• Police received a report about an activated alarm Friday at a Beaver Drive business. Upon arrival, police ensured everything was OK and then cleared the scene.
• Police received a report about a theft on Friday in the 400 block of Spring Avenue. Upon arrival, police learned someone had allegedly stolen money from the residence. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police received a report about a theft Friday. According to police, a male had money taken from him by a known female. Police are continuing their investigation and charges are pending at this time.
• Police received a report about a retail theft Saturday at a business in the 100 block of North Main Street. During the incident, a male allegedly entered the store and removed clothing. Police are continuing their investigation and charges are pending at this time.
• Police responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash Saturday at the intersection of Jared Street and West Long Avenue. According to police, a Dodge pick-up was traveling north on Jared Street. At the same time, a driver turned left onto West Long Avenue in front of a Nissan sports utility vehicle that was traveling south on Jared Street, causing the vehicles to collide. No injuries were reported, and both vehicles sustained severe damage.
• Police received a report about an alarm Saturday at a business in the 400 block of West DuBois Avenue. Upon arrival, police found everything was secure, and cleared the scene.
• Police received a report about criminal mischief to a vehicle that occurred Sunday on Forrest Avenue. During the incident, someone allegedly smashed out the taillight. Police are continuing their investigation and charges are pending at this time.
• Police received a report about a disturbance Sunday at a South Highland Street residence. Upon arrival, police spoke to a male who related he approached an unknown male about rocks hitting his vehicle. He said the male got upset with him, made threats against him and then left the scene. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash Sunday in the 600 block of Maple Avenue. According to police, a driver lost control of his Chrysler 300, went into the oncoming lane and struck a Dodge Durango. Upon investigation, police determined the male driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol; DUI and related charges are currently pending at this time.
• Police received a report about a disorderly, intoxicated male Sunday on East Weber Avenue. Upon arrival, police spoke to the caller who said an unknown male came across the street and began to throw him around like a “rag doll.” Upon a search of the area, police made contact with the male who claimed the caller was the aggressor and he had to protect himself. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at DuBois

• State police received a report about a domestic assault Sunday on Short Street in Falls Creek Borough. During the incident, a 38-year-old Falls Creek man allegedly struck his ex-girlfriend on or about her face several times, then strangled her until she lost consciousness. State police are continuing their investigation at this time.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about a theft that occurred Dec. 14 on Low Grade Road in Burnside Township. According to state police, a 51-year-old Westover man ordered a package. However, it either never arrived at his residence or was stolen from it. His package contained a Nike No. 30 James Conner Steelers jersey valued at $70.

Clearfield Borough

• Police have received multiple reports about telephone scams in the area. According to police, people are attempting to obtain information from residents. Police would like to remind residents not to provide any personal information out to unknown callers over the phone.
• Police received a report about a couple involved in an altercation at the Sheetz store, located on Nichols Street. According to police, a male started to appear more aggressive and as though he would strike the female. Police say the female feared for her safety and used self-defense spray to end the altercation. Then, the male left the scene.

Lawrence Township

• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash Sunday night on state Route 879 at its intersection with the Park Avenue on/off ramp. According to police, a vehicle driven by a female juvenile was making a left turn onto the on-ramp from SR 879 westbound. At the same time, a vehicle driven by 24-year-old Kearston Casher of Woodland was traveling eastbound; she was unable to avoid the other vehicle and the two vehicles collided. Police say one person suffered minor injuries and was transported to Penn Highlands Clearfield. Casher appeared to have an active warrant, failed to provide a valid driver’s license and her vehicle was being operated with a suspended registration. Both vehicles were disabled in the crash and towed from the scene; both drivers will also be cited.
• Police responded to a reported overdose Sunday at a Carrs Hill address. Upon arrival on-scene, officers located a 34-year-old Clearfield man lying on his back unconscious. He was not breathing and officers administered Naloxone, then started CPR. Police say the man slowly started breathing, and was taken by emergency personnel to Penn Highlands Clearfield. It was found he also had a warrant through the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office and was housed in county jail following his treatment.
• On Saturday police received a report about an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle from a Bloomington-Glen Richey Highway residence. According to police, a female loaned a Jeep, which didn’t belong to her, to someone who didn’t return it. Police later located the vehicle in Kylertown, and it was returned to its owner. Police are continuing their investigation at this time.
• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash Tuesday in the area of Fullerton Street and the Hyde light. According to the report, a vehicle driven by 32-year-old Nathaniel Moore of Hyde was stopped at a red light while waiting to turn left onto South Second Street. At the same time, a vehicle operated by 72-year-old Sandra Von Gunden of Curwensville was traveling on Fullerton Street and struck the rear of Moore’s vehicle. No injuries were reported, and both vehicles were driven from the scene. Von Gunden was cited for the crash.

CLEARFIELD – Four people are facing felony charges following a drug raid at a Clearfield residence back in early February.

Vincent L. Panebianco, 29, of Clearfield, Darrell Taylor, 29, of Springdale, Lukus Pickard, 35, also of Clearfield, and Mallory Bloom, 26, of Curwensville were charged by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General on Wednesday through the office of Magisterial District Judge Mike Morris.

The charges stem from an ongoing investigation into the distribution of quantities of methamphetamine from a Clearfield residence after information was provided to OAG by Lawrence Township police, according to the affidavit of probable cause.

On numerous occasions, officers observed high amounts of “short stay” traffic at Panebianco’s residence at 1815 Daisy Street Ext. Neighbors made the same observations and as recent as Feb. 1; they provided this information to the township police.

An undercover agent conducted surveillance in the area Feb. 1 and observed a Caucasian male exit the rear door of the residence. He entered the passenger’s side of a small, coupe-style vehicle, which subsequently departed.

It was stopped minutes later by a state trooper after several traffic violations and it was learned that there was an active arrest warrant for the passenger, Marcus Waltmon.

While he was being taken into custody, Waltmon “spontaneously” informed officers of a “loaded” needle of methamphetamine on the passenger’s side.

He said he didn’t want officers to get injured when they found it. It was located and they received consent to search the vehicle from the driver.

During a search of the vehicle, officers located a lock box in the rear seat, which was opened by the driver and reportedly contained $19,020 in cash.

Also, phones, scales, packaging materials and small amounts of methamphetamine and marijuana and additional amounts of money were allegedly seized from the driver ($2,628) and Waltmon ($662). Both were taken to the township police station for questioning.

While in police custody, the driver’s phone rang continuously, and the calls were apparently from the Akron, Ohio area, which agents referenced as a known “source city” for methamphetamine.

The undercover agents believed the cash seized from Panebianco’s residence and from within the vehicle were meant to be used to purchase additional supplies of methamphetamine for distribution in Clearfield.

Based upon their experience, they also believed this money came from the sale of methamphetamine, and that associated materials were also purchased with this money.

As a result of the traffic stop, agents applied for and obtained a search warrant, which was executed on Panebianco’s residence. Inside the home, officers located Panebianco, Taylor, Pickard and Bloom along with two juveniles under the age of 10 years old.

A search allegedly turned up a large quantity of methamphetamine and other items – packaging materials, scales etc. – that indicated the occupants were involved in the distribution of the drug.

In a dresser in Panebianco’s room, officers found a stack of identification cards for various people. Drug dealers usually take personal property, such as driver’s licenses and cellular phones, from others to ensure payment at a later date, the agents said in the affidavit.

Taylor was also allegedly in unlawful possession of two firearms, namely a Smith & Wesson .380-caliber handgun and a 12-gauge Mossberg shotgun

Panebianco, Pickard and Bloom have been charged with two felony counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and a felony count each of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities and endangering the welfare of children.

Taylor has been charged with two felony counts each of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and possession of firearm prohibited, plus a felony count each of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities and endangering the welfare of children.

Bail is currently set at $250,000 monetary for Panebianco, Taylor and Bloom and $100,000 monetary for Pickard. All four remain incarcerated and have been scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings at 11 a.m. March 5.

PIKE TOWNSHIP – An early-morning fire at an abandoned mobile home has been ruled arson, according to the Ridgway-based state police.

The fire occurred at 3 a.m. Wednesday at 248 Morgan Rd., Pike Township, and was investigated by PSP Fire Marshal Russell Stewart and the Curwensville Fire Department.

No injuries were reported in the fire; however, damage has been estimated at $2,700, Stewart said. Anyone with information is asked to call 814-776-6136.

Tyler Jamal Newman (Photo provided to GANT News partner WJAC-TV by Clearfield County Jail)

CLEARFIELD – A Gifford, Pa. man who reportedly went on a multi-jurisdiction crime spree is facing robbery and related charges in Clearfield County.

Tyler Jamal Newman, 19, has been charged by Trooper David Patrick of the Clearfield-based state police with two felony counts of robbery/threat immediate serious injury; a felony count of robbery/inflict threat immediate bodily injury; and a felony count of robbery/take property from other/force.

He’s also been charged with two felony counts of terroristic threats; two misdemeanor counts of recklessly endangering another person; a misdemeanor count of theft by unlawful taking; and two summary counts of harassment.

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

According to the affidavit of probable cause, at approximately 11:55 p.m. Feb. 11, Lawrence Township police were dispatched to an attempted armed robbery at the Sheetz store, located at 14259 Clearfield-Shawville Hwy.

On-scene Officer Ralph Nedza made contact with the cashier. She said just minutes earlier, a male approached and placed two items on the counter.

As she rang both items, she saw he had a handgun, which he held close against himself with the barrel on the counter. He stared at her, extended his left hand with his palm up and curled his fingers toward himself.

He allegedly told the cashier to “empty the register” to which she replied, “are you kidding me?” She said he continued to stare at her, concealed the weapon under his jacket and “casually” exited the store.

At approximately 12:20 a.m. Feb. 12, Troopers Douglas Mihalko and Matthew Gordon were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery at the Kwik Fill in Kylertown.

On-scene an employee said just minutes earlier, an African American male entered the store and brandished what appeared to be a silver and black semi-automatic handgun.

The male allegedly pointed the weapon straight at the employee and stated “give me all the money in the register. Don’t worry I’m not going to shoot you; it’s nothing personal.”

The employee said he gave the male approximately $200 to $300 in cash from the register. He said the male also asked for a pack of Newport 100s.

While he retrieved the pack, he said the male stated, “Not to be greedy but give me a Bic lighter, too.” He provided troopers with a physical description, saying the male fled in a silver Nissan Xterra.

A be-on-the-look-out alert was sent out on the suspect vehicle, which was believed to be headed south on state Route 53, to the surrounding areas.

At approximately 12:58 a.m., Rockview-based state troopers encountered the vehicle at a truck stop in Snow Shoe. Inside was a male matching the robbery suspect’s physical description.

A “hit confirmation” was sent out and investigating troopers found out the vehicle was stolen out of Ridgway, according to the affidavit.

Troopers subsequently identified the male as Newman and inside the vehicle were a silver and black bb gun and $286 in cash. He was taken into custody and to the Clearfield barracks.

Newman reportedly confessed to troopers that he attempted to rob Sheetz in Clearfield and robbed Kwik Fill in Kylertown. Troopers recorded his confession on both audio and video.

State police at Punxsutawney

• State police received a report about an inactive domestic incident Feb. 11 on Hill Street in Westover Borough. According to state police, a 24-year-old Cherry Tree woman said her ex-boyfriend – a 34-year-old Cherry Tree man – confronted her during a custody exchange. During their argument, he reached through her window and allegedly hit her arms while trying to grab her car keys from the ignition and shut off her vehicle. She also said he was irate and screaming at her in front of their three small children. State police have cited the man for harassment.

Clearfield Borough

• Police received a report about an incident of criminal mischief on North Fourth Street. Upon arrival, police learned a private plow truck damaged the caller’s yard.
• Police received a report about an altercation on Cemetery Road. Upon arrival, police learned there wasn’t any altercation. However, a vehicle was disabled and being worked on.
• Police received found property that was located along West Seventh Avenue. Police were able to locate the owner and return the property.
• Police assisted emergency personnel with a male suffering from mental health issues on Williams Street. He was subsequently transported to the hospital for an evaluation.
• Police received a report about an incident of harassment from a Reighard Street resident. During the incident, police say an unwanted male contacted the victim, and they handled the situation without incident.
• Police responded to an alarm along East Market Street. Upon arrival, police found that an employee had accidently set it off.
• Police assisted a disabled motorist whose vehicle had become disabled along state Route 879.
• Police received a report about a disorderly male yelling at passersby along Bridge Street. Police located the male and warned him of his actions.
• Police were called to West Front Street for a female who left the residence and who has a history of self-harm. Police were able to locate the female.
• Police received a report about a male yelling and causing damage to a Nichols Street business. Upon arrival, police determined the male was in need of mental health services. He was subsequently transported to the hospital.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report about a retail theft Feb. 2 at the Wines & Spirits store at the Clearfield Mall. According to police, employees discovered half-empty packs of liquor bottles. During review of store surveillance, a 56-year-old man was allegedly observed removing several bottles from packs and placing them inside his jacket pockets. Then, he left the store without paying. Police say several other incidents were also investigated, which resulted in criminal charges being filed.
• Police received a report about a retail theft Feb. 16 at Sapp Bros. On surveillance video, two females and a male were allegedly seen stealing $409.86 worth of merchandise. Police were able to identify the suspects and file charges against them.

CLEARFIELD – A Mahaffey man has been accused of intentionally setting his family’s home on fire.

Ronald Kevin Zak, 42, has been charged by Trooper Kathleen L. Watters, deputy fire marshal, of the Punxsutawney-based state police with two felony counts of arson.

He’s also been charged with felony counts of reckless burning or exploding and criminal mischief, plus a misdemeanor count of recklessly endangering another person.

Zak waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday during centralized court at the Clearfield County Jail. His bail is currently set at $75,000.

The charges stem from a fire Jan. 10 at 346 E. Main St., in Mahaffey Borough, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge James Glass.

Zak resided at the home with his wife and four adult children, and they planned to purchase it. However, there wasn’t anyone at home at the time of the fire.

Witnesses first saw flames in a second-story window, then Zak’s wife told investigators that her husband had been drinking and was angry when he left around 4 p.m.

Zak’s wife and adult children left shortly after 5 p.m., and they all met each other again later that day in Rural Valley, Pa, where an argument over believed infidelity continued.

At 8:20 p.m., Zak called his wife saying he was back at the house in Mahaffey. The first 911 call to report the fire was received at 8:39 p.m., state police said.

During an interview with fire investigators, Zak allegedly admitted that he was the last one inside the home and to being on the second floor.

He also allegedly admitted to smoking four or five cigarettes and intentionally “flicking” the burning butts on the floor near a mattress in the hallway.

Zak said he left the house knowing that he should have gone back. State police said the home was a complete loss with the entire structure collapsing into the basement.

GANT News has partnered with the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole and will publish its absconders list for Clearfield County.

Individuals listed on this page are not reporting as required by conditions of their parole. Probation and parole officials are seeking information as to their whereabouts.

If you have seen or have information regarding any individual within your community who is listed as a parole absconder, please contact the board at 1-800-932-4857 or  RA-CRabscondertips@pa.gov to report the information. You may also submit an online tip.

Any information provided will be held in strictest confidence.

Photo (if available)	Name
	Richard Gilbert
	Frederich Harris
	Trevon Johnson
	Richard Nelson
	Frederick Oddo
	Ronda Shafer
	Brandon Timko
	Robert Weaver

CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday warned area residents of a recently-reported phone scam.

According to a news release, a caller is falsely claiming to be “Deputy Sheriff Brooks” and requesting residents to appear at the courthouse to register for various court-related matters.

“… All such calls related to ‘Deputy Brooks’ [should] be ignored,” the release said. It added that any questionable calls can be confirmed as such by contacting the courthouse at 814-765-2641.