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GANT Police Blotter

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Lawrence Twp.

While conducting routine patrols, police came upon a suspicious vehicle parked behind Sapp Bros. Truck Stop.  Upon investigation it was found that the two individuals in the vehicle, John R. McGonigal III, 36, and Bambi Miles, 42, both of Philipsburg were smoking methamphetamine.  A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of more drugs and paraphernalia.  Both individuals were arrested and charges have been filed.

Police conducted a traffic stop along Hill and High Streets for a traffic violation.  Upon making contact with the driver, it was found that he had come from a known drug residence.  A consent search was conducted and resulted in methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  The male driver was also determined to be under the influence.  He was taken to Penn Highlands Clearfield for a legal blood draw.  Charges are pending.


Brockway Woman Pleads Guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter in Fatal Multi-Drug Overdose

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CLEARFIELD – A Brockway woman pleaded guilty Tuesday to involuntary manslaughter in connection to the death of a woman who died after taking heroin laced with Fentanyl.

Catherine Marie Quashnock, 28, was originally charged by DuBois City police with several felony offenses including drug delivery resulting in death.

According to the affidavit, an investigation began after a man and woman both suffered multi-drug overdoses and lost consciousness at a residence on South Franklin Street on May 1.

The woman died but the man survived due to emergency medical intervention. When he regained consciousness, he told police he had purchased four packets of heroin from Quashnock that they consumed before passing out.

When she was questioned, she admitted to selling him the drugs. The empty packets tested positive for heroin and Fentanyl.

An autopsy of the woman revealed she had heroin, Fentanyl and methamphetamine in her system.

In his report, the autopsy doctor stated that “clearly, the dominant chemicals causing death in this patient are of course Fentanyl and heroin.”

On Monday during colloquy court, Quashnock’s attorney, Adam Bishop, reviewed her life saying she suffered from a food addiction due to childhood trauma. After gastric bypass surgery, her addiction switched to alcohol and drugs.

He pointed out that she had no prior criminal record and is very sorry for the “role” she played in the victim’s death.

“Decent people can do indecent things when addicted to drugs.”

Quashnock’s “heart goes out to” the victim’s mother, he said, and she did not knowingly put Fentanyl in the heroin as the mother claims.

In fact, Quashnock had used packets of the same drug that she bought from someone else marked “jet fuel,” with no problems.

This is why at one point, she claimed another man had been with the couple when they took the drugs and was the one responsible for the death of the woman, Bishop explained.

Bishop also defended accusations by a DuBois City police officer that while incarcerated Quashnock continued to sell drugs. This conclusion was made after listening to calls involving Quashnock while she was in the county jail.

He stated they only listened to calls during the first two months she was incarcerated while she was still “withdrawing from heroin” and that after she was “clean,” she stopped talking about this.

The officer also addressed the court saying that the subpoena he had only covered calls made until July but additional calls will be examined at a later date.

Because of this behavior, District Attorney Ryan Sayers told President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman that “a long term of incarceration is appropriate.”

Ammerman then sentenced Quashnock to a total of four to 11 years in state prison for proceeds of unlawful activities, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal use of communication facility, and involuntary manslaughter in this case and for an additional case of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine.

She was also ordered to pay $2,399 in restitution to the victim’s mother and $10,000 to the state as a civil penalty.

State Police Identify Driver in Houtzdale Hit-and-run Crash

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HOUTZDALE – State police at Clearfield have identified the driver that struck a West Hannah Street residence Monday night in Houtzdale Borough.

According to an updated crash report, a Chevrolet Silverado driven by 35-year-old Nathaniel Toner of Houtzdale struck the residence at approximately 11:40 p.m.

The truck struck the front of the residence, causing substantial damage, state police say. Then, the driver reportedly backed up and continued traveling down state Route 53 without reporting the crash.

The homeowners also attempted to have the driver stop; the vehicle was later located at Toner’s residence and had obvious damage to the passenger/rear area.

Toner provided his vehicle information without incident, and state police were also assisted by a witness of a Walmart vehicle and the Houtzdale Car Wash.

State police have obtained video surveillance and charges are to be filed through the office of Magisterial District Judge James Glass.

GANT Police Blotter

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Sandy Twp.

Walmart employees witnessed a 24 year old DuBois woman pick up a purse that was for sale by the store then carry it around the store filling it with other products. She then attempted to leave the store without paying for it, when stopped by employees.  Charges have been filed.

Officers received several reports of vehicles in the Oklahoma area of Sandy Township being entered overnight.  The vehicles were rummaged through and change and cash were taken.  Investigation continues.

Officers received a report of a man sleeping in a vehicle in the Walmart parking lot.  Officers located the 66 year old Grassflat man who said he had a doctors appointment in the morning and was just sleeping there until then. 

Employees of Dunkin Donuts reported the mother of a former employee attempted to order food in the drive thru and became belligerent when she was told to leave.

Officers responded to a Denton Ave. residence for a report of a woman yelling and carrying on, which had been going on for several days.  Officers handled the situation without incident.    

A woman returned to her friends vehicle after going into the Blinker Sheetz to find her friend unconscious in the drivers seat.  Police and EMS arrived and treated the 37 year old man for a drug overdose.  Both parties were released.

A woman reported her 17 year old daughter lost her wallet at the Dubois Mall.

Shawville Woman Facing Charges in Motor Vehicle Theft

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CLEARFIELD – A Shawville woman is behind bars for an alleged motor vehicle theft and drug violations.

Jessica Hudson, 20, is charged by Lawrence Township police with theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, unauthorized use of motor vehicle, driver’s license suspended/revoked, intentional possession of a controlled substance and use/possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to police, a motor vehicle theft was reported at 2:33 a.m. Thursday at Snappy’s Convenience Store, Clearfield. A short time later, it was observed pulling into the lower parking lot at Sapp Bros. Truck Stop

Hudson was found to have stolen the truck and subject to search, as she was being placed under arrest. She was found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia, police say.

Hudson was housed in Clearfield County Jail on a probation violation, and her bail was set at $50,000. She’s scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing Jan. 13 during centralized court.

GANT Police Blotter

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Clearfield Borough

Police conducted a welfare check for an individual who had made concerning statements in reference to self-harm.  Police spoke to the individual who found her to be okay.

Police received a report in reference to a missing juvenile.  The juvenile was to have had fled her parent’s residence in order to go to a friend’s house.  Police located the juvenile and multiple pieces of drug paraphernalia were located.

Police received a report of harassment.  Police were informed of unwanted text messages being sent from individual to another.  Police intervened and warned the party of their actions.

Police responded to a noise complaint on W Market St.  The caller reported that she could multiple people arguing.  Police arrived on scene and found the individuals to be playing cards and speaking loudly.

Police responded to a report of a large fire in the backyard of a Dorey St. residence.  Police arrived and located a male who had created multiple fires in burn barrels for the purpose of disposing trash.  The male was cited.

Police received a report of a juvenile who had skipped school and was currently on probation through a different county.  Police located the female, and she was released to the appropriate agency.

Police received a report of a minor vehicle accident involving a semi-truck making contact with a parked car.

Police from this department assisted Lawrence Township Police with responding to an incident involving a vehicle being stolen.  The caller reported that he had left his vehicle running while he entered a local establishment.  The suspect had stolen the vehicle while the caller was inside the establishment.  Police later located the vehicle in a truck stop parking lot.  The suspect was also located and taken into custody.

Lawrence Twp.

Police were call to the UMI Speedway for a report of a suspicious vehicle.  Upon investigation officers located a male, Caleb Eisenhauer, 21, of Clearfield passed out in the vehicle under the influence of alcohol.  Police also observed drug paraphernalia and a small amount of marijuana.  Charges have been filed.

Domestic Relations Office Issues Warrant List

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CLEARFIELD – Clearfield County Domestic Relations periodically reports the names of people who are wanted on a bench warrant for owing back child support and/or court costs.

The following names are published in an effort to assist in the apprehension of people who owe past-due support payments. This list will continue to be published on a regular basis on GANT.

Anyone who may have information concerning any of the people listed is asked to call Clearfield County Domestic Relations at 814-765-5339, Extension 344. All calls will remain anonymous.

Name, Address

  • Samantha L. Beattie, DuBois
  • Russell H. Bloom Jr., Curwensville
  • Allison C. Bowman, Curwensville
  • Jesse B. Breeden, LaJose
  • Matthew Brooks, Clearfield
  • Jessica N. Catalano, Osceola Mills
  • Matthew M. Carmella, Willoughby Ohio
  • Justin E. Clinton, DuBois
  • Kathryn M. Cowder, Bigler
  • Zaccery D Conklin, West Decatur
  • Casey K. Davis, Clearfield
  • Andrew J. Digilarmo, Anita
  • Robert A. Dixon Jr., Curwensville
  • Austin J. Duffalo, Dubois
  • Jerry T. Duttry, DuBois
  • James I. Esposti III, Mahaffey
  • Adam Gallaher, West Decatur
  • Jarrod M. Gesin, DuBois
  • Kelly M. Golding, Brooklyn N.Y.     
  • Joey T. Graham, Allport
  • Richard T. Hammond Jr, DuBois
  • Kevin C. Hunter, West Decatur
  • Amber R. Johnston, Clearfield
  • Devon E. Klingler, Winburne
  • Austin M. Krolick, DuBois
  • Caitlin T. Leibold, Lebanon
  • Zachary D. Loomis, DuBois
  • Silvino Lopez, Clearfield
  • Thomas M. Lumadue, Mineral Springs
  • Shelby R. Martin, Morrisdale
  • David J. McElwee, Clearfield
  • Kody McGary, Madera
  • Robert J. Mckinney Jr., Philipsburg
  • William D. Miller, Philipsburg
  • Stephen J. Moskel, Madera
  • Thor A. Myers Sr., Unknown Address
  • Matthew B. Nupp Sr., Weedville
  • Shawn M. Oshenic, Olanta
  • Bradley Parks, Clearfield
  • Stephen C. Perschka, Winburne
  • Isaac L. Peterson, DuBois
  • Michael S. Phillips, Philipsburg
  • Ian S. Robison, DuBois
  • Joan A. Rogers, DuBois
  • Ivy L Schreffler, Luthersburg
  • Remington C. Scott, Ohio
  • James C. Selvage, Beccaria
  • Daniel W. Skiver, Fallentimber
  • Chelsea N. Smith, Clearfield
  • Christopher A. Stiffler, Grampian
  • Jason E. Stiles, DuBois
  • William C Stiner, Woodland
  • Valerie A. Summers, Grampian
  • Larry J. Templeton Sr., Morrisdale
  • Tyler J. Timko, Hyde
  • Hugo O. Travis Jr, Madera
  • Coty T. Trump, Philipsburg
  • Marshall L. Waite, Coalport
  • Jack D. Wallace, woodland
  • Kayla R. Wells, DuBois
  • Daniel W. Wetzel, Mahaffey
  • Jamie D. Williams, West Decatur
  • Victoria E. Williams, Reynoldsville
  • Jason W. Witherite, Luthersburg
  • Adam P. Wymer, DuBois

Sheriff’s Office Issues Warrant List

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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.

Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office
Contact: 814-765-2641, Ext. 2159
Joshua L. BanksBench Warrant
Alisha M. BilgerBench Warrant
Justin L. BlantzBench Warrant
Ronald L. BryanBench Warrant
Nicole M. BumbargerBench Warrant
John O. CarolusBench Warrant
Jennifer A. ClarkBench Warrant
Christine D. CoatesBench Warrant
Harley D. DavisBench Warrant
Mona J. DillenBench Warrant
Ashlin D. DodgeBench Warrant
Austin J. DuffaloBench Warrant
Ellen N. EdwardsBench Warrant
Melissa J. EnglishBench Warrant
Timothy J. HatcherBench Warrant
Scott A. HaversackBench Warrant
Shelby R. HowardBench Warrant
Gwendalyn A. JohnsonBench Warrant
Savannah M. JohnstonBench Warrant
Emily M. JonesBench Warrant
Dustan P. KehrleyBench Warrant
Jessica R. KylerBench Warrant
Robert E. LefortBench Warrant
Andrew P. LenhartBench Warrant
Cody L. LuzierBench Warrant
Kenneth S. MatthewsBench Warrant
Nathan J. McClellanBench Warrant
Chandler D. McCloskeyBench Warrant
Tanner L. MerrymanBench Warrant
Daniel NarehoodBench Warrant
Kris J. NevlingBench Warrant
Steven OgaraBench Warrant
Nicholas W. OpaliskiBench Warrant
Cody S. PalmerBench Warrant
Ralph J. PalmerBench Warrant
Craig S. ParryBench Warrant
Jason D. PetersBench Warrant
Jeffrey L. PetersBench Warrant
Theresa S. PunchiosBench Warrant
Larry R. Rubly Jr.Bench Warrant
Abby SabatineBench Warrant
Michael S. SchaefferBench Warrant
Joni L. ShawleyBench Warrant
Daniel W. SkiverBench Warrant
Michael A. SmithBench Warrant
Anna M. SonesBench Warrant
Charles N. StandevenBench Warrant
Torre StuckeBench Warrant
Daniel J. TeatsBench Warrant
Florence A. TeatsBench Warrant
Larry J. TempletonBench Warrant
Rebecca D. ThrashBench Warrant
Tyler J. TimkoBench Warrant
Hugo O. Travis Jr.Bench Warrant
Brittany L. WatsonBench Warrant
Michael A. WeaklandBench Warrant
Dwight D. WoodyardBench Warrant
Joyce L. YearwoodBench Warrant


GANT Police Blotter

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PSP Clearfield

The Department of Correction conducted a search of Tomorrow’s Hope in Beccaria Twp.  Duane Custred, 52, of Coalport and William Golson, 33 of Houtzdale were found to be in possession of drugs and related material.  Charges have been filed against both.

State police are investigating an incident of retail theft from the Dollar General in Curwensville Borough.  The investigation continues.

State police are investigating a hit and run at the intersection of Hannah St. and Tyrone Pike in Beccaria Twp.  What police believe is to be an early 2000’s Dodge Ram 1500 hit a row of four mailboxes and fled in an unknown direction.  The investigation continues.

State police responded to a single vehicle accident on SR 322 in Decatur Twp.  The driver of a 2004 Nissan Titan attempted to pass another vehicle and lost control sliding across the roadway and striking a tree.  The vehicle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene.  A passenger in the vehicle sustained suspected minor injuries from the airbag deployment and was transported to Penn Highlands Clearfield for treatment.

State police stopped a vehicle on the Clearfield Woodland Hwy. for a suspended license.  Through the investigation the driver was suspected of DUI on drugs and was in possession of drugs and related paraphernalia.  Charges are pending toxicology results.

GANT Weekend Police Blotter

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Curwensville Borough

Police responded to an altercation between two intoxicated individuals at the Curwensville House.  Police were able to handle without incident.

Police assisted Curwensville EMS with a call along Hill St.

Police assisted LTPD with the search of a vehicle driving without headlights.  The vehicle could not be located.

Police assisted the driver of a disabled tractor trailer on State St.

Police received a report of a homeless person living in area of Station St.  Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

A pink Victoria’s Secret key chain was turned into police.  The owner may claim it at the station.

A key fob for a Kia with additional keys were turned into police.  The owner may claim them at the station.

Smith Pleads Guilty in Coalport Shooting Incident

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CLEARFIELD – One of the three men charged in connection with a shooting/riot incident in Coalport pleaded guilty Monday during sentencing court.

Charles Michael Smith, now 20, Cole Brown, now 19, and Jasiah Williams, now 19, all of Indiana County were charged in October of 2019 with riot and disorderly conduct in connection with an incident in June of that year.

In addition, six juveniles were charged with similar offenses.

The charges stem from an incident on June 26, 2019 at 9:14 p.m. when two groups of teens encountered each other on the sidewalk on Main Street in Coalport Borough.

The borough was put in lock down with people being asked to stay in their homes due to an active shooter in the area and rumors persisted on Facebook that the activity was gang-related.

According to the affidavits, the defendants were part of a group of eight individuals who went to Coalport Borough to engage in a fight with a resident.

The defendants located the resident and another group of individuals on the sidewalk outside of 531 Main St., in Coalport Borough.

Two juveniles with the defendants’ group reportedly had ball bats that were used during the altercation. Two other known juveniles had handguns that were discharged, police said.

Video taken from the Coalport Alliance Church was used to identify the individuals involved, according to authorities.

On Monday, Smith pleaded guilty to a felony count of riot-plan/use firearm/weapon and misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman sentenced him to 30 days to one year in jail plus two years consecutive probation, according to a court employee.

The cases against Brown and Williams are still pending.

GANT Police Blotter

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Sandy Twp.

A 56 year old DuBois woman reported receiving harassing texts from her granddaughters mother over custody issues.

A 40 year old E. Maloney Road man reported his 50 year old brother punched him after a verbal argument.  Officers handled the situation without incident. 

A vehicle driven by a 58 year old DuBois woman was traveling on E. DuBois Avenue and when she approached Commons Drive, a vehicle driven by a 47 year old Punxsutawney woman pulled out of Commons Drive.  The two collided.  No injuries and both vehicles were driven from the scene. 

A 35 year old Treasure Lake man reported his mother 60 year old mother grabbed him after he spilled a beverage.   Officers handled the situation without incident. 

A vehicle driven by a 17 year old Dubois man failed to stop in time to avoid hitting a vehicle driven by a 48 year old DuBois woman that was stopped in traffic on Shaffer Road.  No injuries reported and both vehicles were driven from the scene.

Employees of Monroe Muffler reported a suspicious vehicle in their parking lot.  Upon arrival officer found a 53 year old Minnesota man asleep in the vehicle.  The man said his car broke down and he had it towed there for repairs. 

Clearfield Borough

Police were notified of a minor accident that occurred along S. Front St. where one vehicle had rear-ended another vehicle causing minor damage. 

Police were called to Margaretta St. for individuals going into a vacant house.  Police responded and found the residence to be unsecured.  Police cleared the residence and were able to secure it.

Police received a complaint of access device fraud where a card was used to make a purchase without the victims’ permission or knowledge.

Police located a male that was acting suspicious along W. 1st Ave.  The male was later taken to the hospital on a mental health warrant as he was found to need treatment.

Police responded to a minor accident along Nichols St. where a vehicle had backed into a truck.  Minor damage and no injuries were reported.

Police responded to a residential alarm along E. 6th S.t and found the residence to be secure.

Police responded to Turnpike Ave. for an altercation between a male and female.  Police arrived and could hear the male inside the apartment yelling and screaming.  Police made contact with the occupants and found the altercation was verbal.  The male was cited for disorderly conduct.

Police arrested a male after he was found to be passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle parked along Park St.  The male was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and possible Methamphetamine.  Charges are pending.

Police were called to Penn Highlands Clearfield for a mental health patient that was being disorderly.

Police checked the area of McBride St. after a homeowner found their vehicle alarm had been activated. 

Police responded to an alarm at a business along E. Market St. and found the building to be secure.

State Police Seize More Than $15 Million in Illegal Drugs During the Fourth Quarter of 2020

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HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania State Police announced on Tuesday that troopers confiscated $15,272,119 worth of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and other illicit drugs in the fourth quarter of 2020.

In total, state police seized more than $45 million worth of illegal drugs in 2020, including over 300 pounds of cocaine and more than 228 pounds of heroin and fentanyl. In 2019, troopers confiscated over $43 million in prohibited drugs from the highways and communities of the commonwealth, including over 425 pounds of cocaine and nearly 300 pounds of heroin and fentanyl.

Fourth Quarter Drug Seizure Totals
 DrugTotal SeizedTotal Value of Amount Seized
Cocaine132.96 lbs.$2,925,120
Crack Cocaine2.49 lbs.$39,840
Heroin107.25 lbs.$3,646,500
Fentanyl18.05 lbs.$288,000
LSD43 doses$860
Marijuana THC – Liquid18.5 pints$123,950
Marijuana THC – Solid37.88 lbs.$189,400
Marijuana Plants106 plants$17,490
Processed Marijuana804.38 lbs.$2,413,140
Methamphetamines401.66 lbs.$4,016,600
MDMA – Ecstasy17.88 lbs.$59,004
MDMA – Pills1,639 pills$24,585
Other Narcotics16.69 lbs.$33,380
Other Narcotics (Pills)59,770 pills$1,494,250
 Total Value$15,272,119
   

State police also collected 805 pounds of prescription and other medication as part of its drug take-back program in the fourth quarter of 2020. There are 65 drug take-back boxes at state police stations throughout the commonwealth, providing a safe way to dispose of unused or unwanted medication 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

GANT Police Blotter

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Lawrence Twp.

Police responded to a call of suspicious activity at WalMart.  Upon investigation staff had turned over a found backpacking and shopping bag that were full of brand new merchandise.  Police later located a 52 year old homeless male, identified as Michael Kephart, outside of the store searching for his backpack. Kephart had stolen approximately $1, 112 worth of merchandise from Rural King, Ollies and WalMart.  He was also found to be wanted in Centre and Clearfield counties for theft charges and possession of drugs and paraphernalia.  He was housed in the Clearfield County Jail.

Police responded to a single vehicle accident on Mann Rd.  The driver of the vehicle was traveling too fast for road conditions and was unable to navigate a right-hand turn ultimately striking a mailbox. 

Police received a report of theft of items from inside a vehicle at the Super 8.  Upon investigation it was found that Jessica Hudson, 20, of Shawville entered several vehicles in an attempt to steal a vehicle.  Hudson damaged the ignition in a vehicle and removed several items.  She is currently housed in the Clearfield County Jail.  Charges have been filed.

Sandy Twp.

A 69 year old Treasure Lake man reported that he was contacted by an unknown male who wanted to purchase a boat he had listed on Craigs List.  The middle eastern sounding male offered to pay him more than the list price, if he would cash the check he sent, and send back the excesses.  The man took the check to the bank who informed him it was a scam. 

A 42 year old woman reported that following a verbal argument over a play station, her 31 year old boyfriend the dispute turned physical with pushing and shoving.  Both The parties were separated upon officer’s arrival. The situation was handled without incident.

A vehicle driven by an 85 year old Rockton man collided with a tractor tailer driven by a 47 year old DuBois man.  The passenger vehicle traveled off the road and over a bank.  The Rockton man received minor to moderate injuries and his vehicle was towed from the scene. 

A 72 year old Troutville woman reported being bumped into by an unknown woman while in Walmart, who she believed took her wallet. 

Brown Charged in Robbery, Assault

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CLEARFIELD – A Woodland man is being charged for allegedly plotting a February 2020 ambush with five others to assault and rob another man over money owed following an alcohol purchase.

Clayton T. Brown, 19, is charged by Officer Jonathan Walker of the Lawrence Township police with felony robbery and conspiracy/robbery; misdemeanor conspiracy/theft by unlawful taking and simple assault; simple assault and theft by unlawful taking.

The charges stem from events that occurred Feb. 19, 2020 on Bud George Road, Clearfield, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the office of Magisterial District Judge Mike Morris.

The caller told Clearfield County Dispatch that he dropped his friend off at the turn-around, and he was then jumped and assaulted by a group of people. He said he and his girlfriend fled to the BP Station to call 911.

Because Walker had an extended estimated time of arrival, he requested assistance from the Clearfield Borough Police Department and Assistant Chief Nathan Curry located the victim at the turn-around alone.

When he arrived on-scene, Walker observed the victim lying along the right side of the roadway. He was reportedly visibly injured but able to get to his feet. He was also wet, dirty and missing his shoes.

Police saw that he was limping, and the victim said he was jumped by a large group who had waited for him there. Walker summoned emergency personnel to evaluate the victim’s injuries; he was later taken to Clearfield Penn Highlands for treatment.

The victim told police there were several individuals, and they’d fled into the adjourning woods and field. Walker directed borough officers to establish a perimeter and attempt to locate the suspects.

The victim said he was supposed to be there to meet a friend when suddenly people came out of the dark side of the roadway. They allegedly assaulted him, taking his wallet and shoes.

When Walker spoke with the caller, he said the victim was at the turn-around to meet a girl he “snapped” with online. He said he was to meet her behind Lowe’s, they took him there and the victim went the rest of the way on foot.

That, he said, was when people came out from the side of the roadway and started assaulting the victim. He said all he knew about the girl, which the victim was to meet, was her place of employment.

The caller’s girlfriend said she was scared and drove away quickly but another vehicle struck hers, causing damage. Walker learned the driver was from the Bigler area and had Clearfield-based state police begin to search for him.

Walker went to speak with the girl who said during school, Brown asked if she had the victim on SnapChat, which she did. She said Brown asked to borrow her phone and arranged a “fake meeting” to have the victim buy alcohol.

She said Brown set the meeting spot at the “turn-around” behind Lowe’s. She was able to provide a full name for Brown and a juvenile, and Walker made contact with the juvenile’s mother. She was able to get a hold of him and have him return home.

State police picked up the driver on a traffic stop and he was transported by a township officer to the police station. In a written statement, he said he was simply the “bait car” to get the victim out of his vehicle.

He said Brown sent him a message earlier in the day about “jumping some guy,” which he initially ignored. Later, he messaged Brown back, saying he would come check it out, and Brown told him that he would be the bait. They went to the spot together.

He said when the victim approached on foot, “the other guys” just jumped him. He said the driver of the victim’s vehicle tried to leave in a panic and struck the side of his vehicle. He said he left the area and drove to Lowe’s to check the damage.

When he returned to the scene to check on Brown, he said Brown told him to leave.

The juvenile also arrived at the station with his mother and provided a written statement on the events. He allegedly admitted to being involved and provided names of the others who were there.

He said the victim had ripped him off of money that was previously used to purchase him alcohol. He said he’d told Brown about it, and Brown told him they should meet up behind Lowe’s and get that money back.

He said Brown used the girl’s phone to arrange the meeting and wanted others to be there in case the victim would try to hurt them.  He said when the victim showed up, he confronted him about the money.

He said when the victim pulled away, he got scared so he pushed and struck him before running back to his vehicle and out the other side of Industrial Park Road. This, however, was not what happened, according to Brown’s story.

On Feb. 25, Walker interviewed Brown at the Clearfield Area Junior-Senior High School. He said the juvenile told him several times about the victim ripping him off money for alcohol.

He said they used the girl’s phone to set up the victim, under the presumption he’d buy her alcohol. He said the juvenile made the arrangements including having the “bait car”. When the victim arrived, he said the juvenile punched and tackled him against the car.

He said the victim made numerous attempts to get away, but the group pulled him away from the vehicle and tackled him. He said at one point, the victim broke free again but was hit in the back by one juvenile with a metal rod and with nunchaku by another.

Brown said the juvenile held a silver butterfly knife to the back of the victim’s head, and made comments but he wasn’t sure what was said. He said two juveniles emptied the victim’s pockets and forced him to roll over so they could check his front pockets.

Afterwards, Brown said they all ran to a Jeep hidden in the woods. He said once they got home, they listened to the police’s response to the incident on the scanner.

Brown is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 24 during centralized court.


DuBois Man Charged in Sexual Assault Case

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DUBOIS – A DuBois man is facing felony charges for allegedly touching a woman inappropriately while she was asleep.

Harvey Wolverton Sr., 59, was charged by DuBois City police with aggravated indecent assault, a felony and indecent assault, a misdemeanor in connection to an incident on Sept. 9.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Oct. 7, the victim contacted police to report the assault. She explained it happened a few weeks prior while she was staying at a friend’s home.

The victim reported that while she was asleep, Wolverton began to rub her private area and inserted his finger inside her.

She also stated that Wolverton had actually confessed to her friend what he had done and told her he was afraid he was going to jail.

When the friend was questioned, she confirmed this story.

In an interview with police, Wolverton admitted to the act.

Wolverton waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Friday during centralized court, sending the case on to the court of common pleas. He is free on $50,000, unsecured bail.

2 Area Men Charged for Alleged Involvement in Clearfield Shooting, Attempted Robbery Incident

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CLEARFIELD – Richard Allen Demko Jr., 26, of Northern Cambria and Anthony D. Guy, 48, of West Decatur have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a shooting incident Saturday in Clearfield Borough.

At approximately 9:23 p.m., police responded to a reported shooting incident at a South Second Street address. Upon arrival on-scene, it was learned a 49-year-old male had sustained a gunshot wound to his lower left leg, which required medical treatment.

Demko has been charged with aggravated assault with a firearm and attempted robbery while Guy has been charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. Both are in Clearfield County Jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.

The investigation is still ongoing and more charges and or arrests may follow.  Police were assisted by members of the Pennsylvania State Police, Lawrence Township Police and Curwensville Borough Police Departments. 

Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Clearfield Borough Police Department at 814-765-1533

GANT Weekend Police Blotter

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PSP Clearfield

State police arrested Kennitta Sones, 35, of Morrisdale for breaking into the Greater Shawville Parish and removing numerous items and causing damage while inside.  Charges have been filed.

State police investigated an incident where a 67 year old Osceola Mills woman fell victim to a Publisher’s Clearing House scam.  The caller requested a $210 gift card in order to receive the prize.  When the victim supplied the caller with the gift card pin she realized it was a scam.  The victim contacted Publisher’s Clearing House to report the incident and PCH explained that they do not contact by phone or request money through gift cards.

State police are investigating an incident of found drugs in a motel room at the Kylertown Truck Stop.  The investigation continues.

State police are investigating a theft of a silver catalytic converter from the Allegheny Spay & Neuter Clinic’s animal transportation bus.  Anyone with information is encouraged to contact PSP at 857-3800.

State police responded to a simple assault that occurred between two brothers on Memorial Rd. in Cooper Twp.  The argument escalated into a physical altercation involving a crow bar causing both to receive injuries.  Both were cited with simple assault.

State police are investigating an incident of theft from a victim in Woodward Twp.  Unknown person(s) hacked into the victim’s bank account and removed $900.  The investigation continues.

Clearfield Borough

Police responded to Turnpike Av.e for a report of trespassing.  It was found that a female was harassing another female and making threatening comments.

Police responded to Bigler Ave. for an altercation between a husband and wife.  Police found that the dispute was over property.  Police were able to handle the situation.

Police handled a theft complaint from a resident along Leavy Ave.  Police located the suspect who agreed to return the items.

Police handled a hit and run crash that occurred along Nichols St.  Police were able to locate the suspects’ vehicle a short time later.  Minor damage was reported to both vehicles.

Police responded to E. 7th St. for a report of a male walking through yards late at night.  Police searched the area and did not locate anyone.

Police received a complaint of a barking dog along Elm Ave.  Police were able to contact the owner and advised them of the complaint.

Police were called to the 300 block of Clearfield St for a 911 hang up.  The call was made from a dead cell phone.  Police checked the area and several residents and could not locate the source of the call.

Police responded to Williams St. for a vehicle that was stuck on the railroad tracks.  Police were assisted on scene by AJ Ross Towing.

Police handled an incident of harassment from a Holmes Ave. resident.

Police were asked to check the welfare of a female along Linden St. who had missed appointments and has not been heard from.  Police arrived and found the female to be okay.

Lawrence Twp.

Police conducted a vehicle stop along the Clearfield-Shawville Hwy. for a traffic violation.  The driver, a 29 year old male from Curwensville was found to be driving on a DUI suspended license and have outstanding warrants.  He was taken into custody and found to be in possession of a controlled substance.  Charges are to be filed.

Full Story: Two Men in Custody Following Shooting Incident in Clearfield Borough

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CLEARFIELD – Two men are in custody in connection with a shooting incident that happened on Saturday in Clearfield Borough.

Richard Allen Demko, 26, of Northern Cambria is charged with two counts of aggravated assault and robbery, all felonies, and Anthony D. Guy, 48, of West Decatur is charged with felony robbery.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, police were called to a South Second Street address Saturday at 9:24 p.m. for a 49-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his left leg.

When they arrived, they saw the man lying inside the residence on the floor with a wound to his left leg that was bleeding profusely.

One of the officers applied a tourniquet on the upper part of the leg in an effort to stop the bleeding.

The victim reportedly explained that he had pulled his vehicle into his residence and exited it when he was rushed by Demko and Guy.

Demko asked “where’s the money” and the victim refused to acknowledge the question.

Demko next took a swing at the victim, but he was able to block it. Then Demko shot him while they were on the back stoop of his home, according to the report.

After this, Guy “freaked out” asking Demko why he had shot the victim.

The victim was able to pull himself into the residence and shut the door.

He further explained that he played a lottery machine earlier in the day at a business in Lawrence Township and had won.

He was not sure if Demko or Guy was there when he won, or if they had just heard he had a large sum of cash.

The man who shot him was identified several times by the victim as “Rickey” or Demko who operates a red Dodge Avenger.

The victim was taken by emergency personnel to Penn Highlands DuBois for treatment.

Officers recovered a 9mm shell casing and an amount of blood at the spot where the victim said he was shot.

A BOLO report was issued for the vehicle and both men were taken into custody and arraigned on Sunday, according to court documents.

They are currently incarcerated in the county jail on $200,000 bail, each.

District Attorney Ryan Sayers stated on Monday that the investigation into why the shooting occurred is still being investigated and additional charges may be filed.

Judge Declares Mistrial in Peteuil’s Drug Cases

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CLEARFIELD – A mistrial was declared by Clearfield County President Judge Fredric Ammerman on Monday in the two cases against a suspected area drug dealer, Daniel Robert Peteuil, 44.

Following an approximate half-hour delay, Ammerman said the court had run into some issues with the jury panel. First, he said alternate juror no. 1 indicated she knew Peteuil during jury selection this past fall.

He said though she “finally” expressed she could be fair and impartial, he still believed she’d be struck from the jury pool. However, he said she was selected and had since written the court asking to be excused.

In a letter dated Dec. 30, Ammerman said she wrote that she knew Peteuil and the more she thought about the trial, the more she became worried and uncomfortable. Ammerman said he excused her as well as juror 10 who contacted the court and indicated that he’d recently been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.

Then, on Friday, he said jurors were being contacted by court staff and reminded of the trial. He said juror 7 mentioned she’d seen an article on GANT News regarding Peteuil having disappeared.

Ammerman said the article gave an extensive, factual account of the case, and that if it was seen by juror 7, it was most likely seen by at least a few others.

He said it detailed all the drugs and amounts Peteuil was found in possession of, and how a confidential informant called him one of the “main drug dealers in the Clearfield County area.”

“It was published so close to trial, and everything is right there including a big picture of Mr. Peteuil,” Ammerman said. While GANT News has “every right” to publish the article, he did believe it was “ill-advised.”

He said normally, local media pick up stories when charges are filed, again following the preliminary hearing and it’s usually pretty “dead” until cases go to trial unless there’s a pre-trial motion.

When Ammerman brought juror 7 into the courtroom, she said she just “skimmed” the article. She only recalled that Peteuil was to be at an appointment in Pittsburgh, cut his ankle bracelet, took off and was now “MIA.”

She said she didn’t recall instructions given at jury selection to not view any media coverage of the case. When asked, she said she hadn’t drawn any conclusions from the article and could serve as a fair and impartial juror.

Both Senior Deputy Attorney General Dave Gorman and Peteuil’s court-appointed defense attorney Brian Jones agreed.

Jones said he was aware of the article, and that all the information was public record. He said Clearfield County has some cases that get much broader media coverage; “it’s just the nature of the beast.”

He said juror 7 didn’t recall any specific testimony, references to Peteuil’s criminal history, etc., and he felt she may still be impartial.  Gorman agreed, noting details the juror recalled were more related to his disappearance than case testimony and evidence.

That, Gorman said, would have to be addressed at some point anyway because the trial was being held in Peteuil’s absence. He said the juror didn’t relate having drawn any sort of conclusion of guilt from the article.

Ammerman said he didn’t see how the juror could possibly put what she’d read aside, and it was likely the article tainted others on the jury panel.   “Frankly, it’s a major concern for me … and I don’t see how we can proceed.”  

Ammerman then excused juror No. 7, leaving the court with 11 jurors. Unable to proceed without the required 12-member jury panel, he declared a mistrial and scheduled jury selection for Feb. 11.

In the first case, Peteuil is charged with three counts of possession of firearm prohibited, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities and five counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, all felonies.

He’s also charged with five misdemeanor counts of intentional possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia and sell controlled substance without known trademark and two summaries.

In the second case, he’s charged with two counts of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, three counts of conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities and criminal use of communication facilities, all felonies.

The charges in the first case stem from an incident June 6, 2019 in DuBois when Peteuil was stopped by police for a window tint violation, according to previously-published GANT News reports.

It was determined he was on state parole and not allowed to be in DuBois. When a parole officer arrived on-scene, she searched the vehicle and located a large sum of cash in the center console as well as a loaded pistol.

Peteuil is not permitted to possess a firearm because he is a convicted felon. He was subsequently taken into custody.

Later investigators reportedly found over $45,000 in cash, two more pistols, ammunition and various drugs in the vehicle. This included 238.41 grams of cocaine, 349 grams of heroin, 58.32 grams of methamphetamine and over a pound of marijuana, police said.

The second case was filed following grand jury testimony in June in relation to drug activity, involving heroin, LSD, marijuana, meth, Fentanyl, cocaine, Suboxone and psychedelic mushrooms “under the leadership of Daniel Peteuil.”

In addition to items found during the June of 2019 traffic stop, investigators reportedly found a receipt for payment of $1,500 to a local attorney for services to an associate of Peteuil, Jonathan Morales. Morales was arrested following a traffic stop May 16, 2019.

Police seized 56.57 grams of meth, 665 stamp bags of heroin, marijuana and other drugs from Morales. They also uncovered over $9,000 in cash, according to court documents. Morales told police the drugs were put in his vehicle by Peteuil.

Confidential informants testified before the grand jury that they bought quantities of drugs from Peteuil. One of these informants stated that they believed “Peteuil was the main drug dealer of drugs in the Clearfield County area.”

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