CLEARFIELD – A DuBois woman accused of possessing a quantity of methamphetamine was sentenced to state prison Monday.

Lisa Irwin, 57, pleaded guilty to felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance in two cases for amounts between 100 and 1,000 grams, and to misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance in a third case.

President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman sentenced her to a total of five to 10 years in state prison.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, in July of 2021, police were called to her residence for an active mental health warrant.

A family member told them he was concerned about her drug use and there was methamphetamine in her bedroom.

Police had previously received reports that she was dealing drugs.

A search warrant was obtained for her residence and her vehicle.

In the home, they found a “large amount of suspected methamphetamine” in a safe. They also located scales, plastic baggies, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

In her vehicle, they found four individual bags of suspected meth, which was an amount “higher than what would be considered for personal use.”

She also had 12 sublingual film packages of Suboxone, and “dabs,” a potent form of THC that were wrapped individually.

On Jan. 26, police were called again to Irwin’s residence in reference to a mental health issue, according to that affidavit.

When police arrived, they spoke with a man outside who whispered “there is a ball of meth sitting on the table.”

Irwin then came to the door asking what he had just said to the officers.

Both of them went back into the residence and started shuffling things around on the table.

The officer entered and saw Irwin pick up something, hold it against her stomach and turn away from him. She was told to put it on the kitchen counter and back away.

The item was a vacuum seal bag with a large amount of a crystal substance in it, according to the criminal complaint.

While the officer spoke with Irwin about why the man had called police in the first place, she said he was jealous of another man and they had been fighting about it for a few days. On this day, she said it “boiled over” to the point she was throwing things at him.

The man said he did have things thrown at him, and was struck in the face, but did not wish to press charges. He only wanted to go to the hospital and was transported by ambulance to Penn Highlands.

Irwin was questioned more about the suspected drugs and she claimed she gave someone $500 for the bag but was not sure of its street value.

She admitted to having drug-packaging materials in the home and turned them over to police.

Later when an officer spoke with the man, he said Irwin was selling a large amount of meth, heroin and marijuana.

The crystal substance was sent for analysis to a crime lab that determined it contained 117.17 grams of methamphetamine.

Sandy Township

• Police reported on July 15 that an unknown female who blocks her number made numerous fraudulent reports to 911, claiming to be a 50-year-old DuBois woman.  The investigation continues.
• Police reported a false alarm July 15 at Save A Lot.
• On July 15, police were contacted by a DuBois woman who reported that her mother wouldn’t return her child.  It was determined that the incident was in another jurisdiction, and officers were able to refer the incident to the appropriate agency.
• Police reported on July 15 that two pit bulls were found along the road in the area of Highland Street and Tozier Avenue.  Officers took custody of the dogs and when the owners didn’t claim them, they were transported to the SPCA. 
• Police reported that on July 15, a key fob was found in the Eat ‘N Park parking lot. 
• Police were notified of a disabled tractor-trailer July 15 on Shaffer Road near Beaver Drive.  However, the truck was gone upon officers’ arrival. 
• On July 16, police received a noise complaint in the parking lot of TJ Maxx.  Upon arrival, a man was found playing a violin attached to a large speaker, which was extremely loud.  Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On July 16, police were contacted by a Kerr Street resident who reported that the neighbors were playing loud music.  Officers arrived in the area but were unable to locate anyone playing loud music. 
• On July 16, police were contacted by a 59-year-old Treasure Lake man who reported that he has problems with his neighbors and on this date, one of their mothers was harassing him while he was outside.  Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On July 17, police were contacted by a 69-year-old Treasure Lake man who reported that his vehicle was hit while he was in Walmart.  Damage was minor and no injuries were reported.
• Police received a report of a possible physical domestic July 17 in the Walmart parking lot. Upon arrival, the parties involved had left and were located on the Bee Line Highway. The 41-year-old man told officers he and a woman were arguing and when she went to drive away, he tried to stop her. He said he reached inside the vehicle, at which point the driver’s side window shattered, cutting his arms.   The couple denied the argument was physical in nature; charges regarding the broken window are pending at this time. 

CLEARFIELD – A former area couple was sentenced Monday for aggravated cruelty to animals for neglecting their animals, one of which starved to death.

In February of 2021, William Kenneth Long, 23, and Kiara Lynn Gohn, whose addresses are now listed as Sharpsburg, had several animals at their Clearfield Daisy Street residence.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Feb. 26, 2021, police received information from the Clearfield County SPCA that a dog had died from neglect at that address.

When asked what happened to the dog, the couple said they’d left Feb. 19 to attend a family funeral and when they came back on Feb. 20, they found it had died. They claimed it was buried at an out-of-town family’s residence.

Later Gohn contacted police admitting the dog was at their Clearfield home and had been there the entire time. She stated Long would not allow her to bury it.

A necropsy determined the dog died from starvation. Veterinarian records indicate it weighed 30 pounds on Oct. 3, 2020 and 19 pounds on March 4.

The dog, whose ribs could clearly be seen, had muscle deterioration and an empty stomach and intestines.

Other animals including another dog, a cat and two rabbits were taken from the home and given to the SPCA.

The rabbit cage appeared to have no food or water and contained a “lot of feces in it”.

Previously police had been called to the home on Oct. 29, 2020 for a trespassing report. At that time, the dog was in a cage.

Long admitted to leaving the dog in there for four days without anyone checking on it. There was food but no water in the cage.

A Dog Law officer was contacted and the dog was determined to be in good health.

On Nov. 27, 2020, a neighbor reported the couple was gone for two to three days and had the dog locked up. This witness believed they were not feeding the dog.

On Monday, the couple pleaded guilty to felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor counts of tampering with evidence and neglect of animals.

Each of them will serve six months to one year in jail and three years concurrent probation, according to a court employee. They were fined $500 plus costs.

They are not allowed to own or be in a position of responsibility for the care of any animal during their sentences.

It was noted that Gohn’s jail sentence will be served following the completion of Long’s sentence due to them being caregivers for a family member.

Lawrence Township

• On July 18, police received a report of a retail theft at the Clearfield Walmart Supercenter. Upon investigation, it was found that a 50-year-old Lecontes Mills woman had allegedly stolen 85 items by under-ringing 37 different transactions. Charges were filed through the district court.
• On July 18, police received a report of fraud after an amount of money was given to the victim by an outside source who sought repayment via Walmart gift cards. This seemed suspicious to the victim and they contacted police.
• Police received a report of a bad check June 21 that was passed at a local business. Charges have since been filed against a Clearfield woman through the district court.
• On July 14, police received several calls regarding the use of counterfeit bills in the Clearfield area. The investigation is ongoing at this time.

CLEARFIELD – A local man is facing charges for the alleged rape of a woman while she was asleep at a Curwensville apartment.

Douglas C. Albert, 53, of Curwensville is charged by Clearfield state police with felony rape unconscious victim and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse- person unconscious.

Albert is also charged with felony sexual assault and aggravated indecent assault without consent, as well as misdemeanor indecent assault-person unconscious and indecent assault.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the victim was asleep at her friend’s apartment March 31 when she was awoken by Albert forcefully raping her.

This caused her to “freeze up” and “black out” from fear that he may physically beat her up if she did anything, the victim told state police.  

Neither she nor Albert spoke during the encounter, she said, and afterwards, he got up and left.

When Albert was interviewed by state police, he denied having any physical contact or communication with the victim, and claimed he was at home all evening.

However, on July 12, state police received a laboratory analysis indicating that DNA belonging to Albert matched the Y chromosome collected in the victim’s sexual assault kit.

Albert had all charges held for county court following a preliminary hearing Wednesday. Online court documents indicate that bail was set at $50,000 monetary, which Albert has posted.

Harrisburg, PA ­– The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) announced a state trooper is charged with aggravated cruelty to animals after an on-duty incident Dec. 28, 2021, in Chester County.

The criminal complaint filed by the PSP Internal Affairs Division alleges Corporal Michael Perillo, assigned to Troop J, Avondale, responded to assist at an incident involving a loose horse on the roadway. Upon arrival, Perillo drove a patrol vehicle into the horse multiple times, causing it to fall. Using the vehicle, Perillo pinned the horse to the pavement, where it was then euthanized by another trooper.

The horse was on the shoulder of Route 1 in Lower Oxford Township and had already been struck by a motorist before troopers were dispatched.

Perillo is charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals, both graded as a felony of the third degree, and one count of cruelty to animals, a misdemeanor of the second degree. He has been suspended without pay pending resolution of the case. The complaint was filed before Magisterial District Judge Scott Massey, in Oxford. He was arraigned today at the Chester County Justice Center, and bail was set at $50,000 unsecured.

Perillo enlisted in the PSP in September 2006.

HARRISBURG–Attorney General Josh Shapiro today announced that, as part of a multistate agreement, he’s secured a settlement that recovers $34.2 million for 46,000 service members and veterans nationwide who were deceived by Harris Jewelry. The jewelry company used deceptive marketing tactics to lure active-duty service members into a financing program, falsely claiming that doing so would improve their credit scores. In reality, service members were tricked into taking out high-interest loans for thousands of dollars on overpriced, poor quality jewelry. According to the agreement negotiated by 18 states and the FTC, Harris Jewelry must stop collecting debt from the service members they deceived and take appropriate action to correct their poor credit scores. July is Military Consumer Month and with today’s agreement, at least 87 service members in Pennsylvania who borrowed more than $100,000 will receive restitution.

“Harris Jewelry preyed on active service members and veterans,” said AG Shapiro. “The people who willingly place themselves in harm’s way in order to protect our freedoms deserve better. With today’s agreement we’ve reduced the crushing debt Harris Jewelry placed on our service members and veterans and won them their hard earned money back. Let this be a warning to other companies, anyone who tries to scam our heroes who serve will have to answer to me.”

A multistate investigation found that Harris Jewelry violated the FTC Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, the Military Lending Act, the Holder Rule; and state laws in connection with jewelry sales and financing to members of the military.

Harris Jewelry made false or unsubstantiated claims that financing jewelry purchases through the company would result in higher credit scores. They misrepresented their protection plan and failed to include written disclosures in its retail installment contracts as required by the Truth in Lending Act and the Military Lending Act.

Harris Jewelry also offered service members protection plans on the jewelry, which they claimed was optional, but was added to nearly all eligible transactions without the consumer’s consent. The costs of the protection plans ranged from $39.99 to $349.99 and in some cases, exceeded the wholesale cost Harris paid for the item.

Eligible service members and veterans will receive an email and letter in the mail notifying them of today’s agreement and if they qualify for restitution.

Joining Attorney General Josh Shapiro in today’s agreement which was led by New York and the FTC are the attorney generals of California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, North Carolina, Virginia, and Washington.

Pennsylvania service members and veterans who believe they may have been scammed should reach out to the Office of Attorney General’s Military and Veterans Affairs Office by emailing pavets@attorneygeneral.gov or calling 717-783-1944.

CLEARFIELD – A DuBois man accused of taking inappropriate photos of a nine-year-old girl pleaded guilty Friday during sentencing court.

Darin Fredrick Acre, 56, was sentenced by Judge Paul E. Cherry to 15 days to two years less one day in the county jail with two years concurrent probation for produce/present/direct obscene performance, a misdemeanor.

He was ordered to have no unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18.

District Attorney Ryan Sayers noted that Acre had an assessment and was not declared a sexually violent predator.

Acre will still have to register with authorities under Megan’s Law and must complete sex offender counseling.

Cherry warned him that if he came back into court on any violation, he would not hesitate to send him to state prison.

Originally Acre was also charged with a second count of produce/present/direct obscene performance, corruption of minors and invasion of privacy.

Prior to sentencing, the victim’s father addressed the court explaining the impact of Acre’s actions on his family.

The family has to live knowing Acre is still nearby, the father read from a prepared statement. “Are you watching the kids in the pool or hot tub?”

He expressed his feelings of anger, disbelief and disgust at Acre.

“The amount of tears you have caused are immeasurable.”

The father explained that he thought of Acre as not just a neighbor, but a friend, a brother.

Citing Acre’s claims that he is an alcoholic and was drunk during the incidents, the father noted that one of the incidents happened just 54 minutes after Acre had gotten home from work.

“It may have been a drunk man’s actions but it was a sober man’s thoughts.”

He also expressed relief that Acre’s behavior didn’t escalate on one occasion due to someone arriving at the home, stopping him from further exploiting the child.

Proud of his daughter throughout “this terrible time,” he commented that while Acre can move on after this, “we can’t.”

While he spoke, his daughter cried and the rest of the family was visibly upset.

Acre’s attorney, Blair Hindman, stated that he had no prior criminal record and authorities didn’t find any child pornography on his phone or computer.

Cherry responded that Acre had actually deleted photos from his phone.

Acre himself addressed the victim and her family, apologizing and saying he was ashamed of what he had done.

“I was black out drunk,” he said. He admitted he was an alcoholic and said he has checked into a rehabilitation facility.

Cherry stated “this is sick” adding he was appalled at what he read in the affidavit and in other documents connected to the case.

“I am satisfied this was grooming behavior,” he pointed out because Acre started slowing by talking with her secretly, teaching her an obscene secret sign, moved on to taking photos, and then asking her to take off her clothes to pose for him, according to the affidavit.

“This beautiful girl is in tears today because of what you did.”  He also said it was fortunate Acre was caught “before it became something far worse.”

“You can’t blame alcohol,” Cherry said.

According to the affidavit, in April 2021, the girl’s parents reported that Acre had taught their daughter an obscene gesture they flashed back and forth to each other. The girl did not understand what it meant.

The girl stated that he also had given her the “shhh” sign by putting his finger on his lips after using the gesture.

Later the victim told her parents about Acre taking photos of her at various times.

The parents checked their home security cameras and were able to find several times Acre took a photo of the girl with her leg kicked out. Once he held her leg up extra high. There was also footage of him making the gesture to her.

During the last encounter, Acre was taking photos and told her to turn around before he took another photo. Then he said something to her and she started to pull the back of her pants down. He said “there you go”, but before he could take the photo, a few friends arrived distracting the girl who ran off to see them.

Police obtained Acre’s cell phone but did not find the photos. After a lab did an analysis of the phone, they were able to find the pictures which had been deleted.

CLEARFIELD – A Burnside man will be doing time in state prison for burglary and possessing drugs.

Hayden David Hoyt, 23, pleaded guilty in two different cases during sentencing court Friday.

For burglary he was sentenced by Judge Paul Cherry to six months to three years in state prison and for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance (less than one pound of marijuana) he was given a concurrent term of six months to three years incarceration.

He must pay $400 in restitution.

According to the affidavit of probable cause in the first case, police investigated a burglary at a Westover residence in April 2018. Missing was a drill charger and battery, a drill in a carry bag, and a set of drill bits. The items were valued at $400.

Police were able to obtain two distinct hand prints from the scene that were sent to a lab that determined they belonged to Hoyt.

The criminal complaint in the second case details how on Feb. 9, U.S. Marshals were serving arrest warrants on both Hoyt and his father, Mark David Hoyt, at their Burnside home.

Hayden Hoyt heard their knocking and locked himself in the bathroom where he allegedly disposed of drugs in the sink and toilet. He eventually opened the door after troopers could hear multiple flushes and water running in the sink.

Several stamp bags were on the floor by the sink, there was an open plastic container and a small amount of methamphetamine near the sink.

In the bedroom where he had been sleeping, they found a bag containing over 14 ounces of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

DUBOIS – District Attorney Ryan Sayers announced Monday that the Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office funded the purchase of a ventilation hood and system to be housed at the DuBois City Police Department. 

The cost of this equipment was $10,595 and paid for entirely through the District Attorney’s Drug Forfeiture Account.  

The ventilation hood and system will provide law enforcement officers with a safe way to test suspected drugs without the concern of coming in physical contact or inhaling fumes from these substances. 

Due to the abundance of fentanyl and other fentanyl-laced drugs in the area, coming in contact with this very lethal drug puts the health of officers at risk on a daily basis as they investigate drug dealers and drug-related crimes.

“Equipment like this system in DuBois and the TruNarc in Lawrence Township are invaluable tools to help keep our law enforcement officers safe as they investigate the ever-increasing amount of drug-related crimes in our county,” said Sayers. 

“It is important that we use this money forfeited from drug dealers and related drug crimes to purchase equipment and provide programming for our law enforcement officers and community-at-large.”

“It is important that we put this drug money to good use and I would like to thank District Attorney Sayers for funding the purchase of this equipment and helping to protect the officers here in the City of DuBois and Clearfield County,” said Chief Blaine Clark. 

“And I would like to specially thank Cpl. Robertson for spearheading this project to find and purchase this equipment.”

Pennsylvania law provides that property and money used or intended to be used in violation of the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act is subject to forfeiture. 

Property and money forfeited by Court Order is transferred to the custody of the District Attorney to be used for the enforcement or prevention of violations of the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act, to assist community-based drug and crime fighting programs, to provide relevant training to officers, and to purchase equipment for law enforcement.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report of burglary June 9 on Church Street in Morris Township. During the incident, a 32-year-old Hawk Run man allegedly took a chainsaw and wooden wagon from the victim’s property. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• State police received a report of indecent assault July 8 at SCI Houtzdale.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report of retail theft June 22 at Lowe’s, Clearfield. Upon investigation, it was found that 32-year-old Jarrett Sloppy of Houtzdale had entered the store, loaded an AC unit onto a flatbed cart and allegedly exited without paying for it. There are currently multiple warrants out for Sloppy; anyone with information is asked to contact police.
• Police reported a drug-related DUI occurred July 22 on the Clearfield – Shawville Highway. During a traffic stop in the Sheetz parking lot, a 29-year-old Clearfield man was allegedly found to be under the influence of a controlled substance. Charges are currently pending.
• Police received a report of criminal mischief/disorderly conduct July 23 at the Edgewood Apartment Complex. Upon investigation, it was found that a 32-year-old Curwensville man was allegedly involved in a verbal altercation and punched the victim’s vehicle, causing damage to the door. Charges were filed through the district court.

CLEARFIELD – A bench warrant was issued for a local man after he failed to appear for his preliminary hearing in a Clearfield County drug case.

Lowell T. Way, 57, of Frenchville is charged by Rockview State Police with felony manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver.

He’s also charged with misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance (three counts) and use/possession of drug paraphernalia (five counts), plus two summaries.

A preliminary hearing was held Wednesday during centralized court, and all charges were sent to the county court of common pleas for further disposition.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, state police were traveling along the Kylertown – Drifting Highway near Interstate 80 in Cooper Township around 2 a.m. July 16.

A red Ford truck was also observed traveling at 55 miles per hour in a marked 45-mph zone with an invalid registration plate, causing troopers to conduct a traffic stop.

After a trooper approached the vehicle, he positively identified Way as the driver and reportedly detected the odor of marijuana emitting from inside.

Way said he had just purchased the vehicle and hadn’t yet affixed the new registration plate. He exited the vehicle at the direction of troopers.

When asked if he had anything illegal, Way said “no” but did admit ownership and responsibility of the vehicle’s contents before granting consent for state police to conduct a search.

At this point, Way asked if he could smoke a cigarette first and gave a trooper consent to retrieve his cigarettes from the center console.

But when the trooper opened the pack, he reportedly discovered a plastic bag containing methamphetamine.

A subsequent search allegedly turned up 340 stamp bags of heroin; a large quantity of meth; a bag of psychedelic mushrooms; two digital scales; aluminum foil; and large sum of U.S. Currency.

Way was taken into custody and during transport to PSP Clearfield, he admitted to possessing around 10 bricks of heroin and a quarter-pound of meth.

At the station, state police determined Way had possessed 340 stamp bags of heroin; 150 grams of meth; 15 grams of psychedelic mushrooms; and over $5,200, according to the affidavit.

BROOKVILLE BOROUGH, Pa. (EYT) – Police say a Punxsutawney man reportedly took an AR-15 pistol and a 9mm handgun to a truck stop in Brookville in an attempt to commit mass murder.

Court documents indicate the Brookville Borough Police Department filed the following criminal charge against 30-year-old Christopher R. Strimple on July 22 in Magisterial District Judge Gregory M. Bazylak’s office:

– Criminal Attempt – Murder

According to a criminal complaint, around 9:48 a.m. on Wednesday, July 20, Jefferson County 9-1-1 Center contacted the Brookville Borough Police Department regarding a call from Jefferson-Clearfield Crisis Center regarding Christopher Strimple.

It was learned that Strimple was at the Flying J Truck Stop on Allegheny Boulevard in Brookville Borough, Jefferson County, in a silver 2015 Ford Fusion.

A representative from the crisis center reported that Strimple did not have suicidal thoughts, but when he was asked if he had thoughts of homicide, he answered “maybe.”

When asked if these thoughts are in regards to anyone specific, he answered “no” but stated he had an AR-15 and a 9mm in his vehicle.

The crisis center representative had called Jefferson County 9-1-1 dispatch to request a police escort to the scene due to the fact that Strimple expressed the intention he wanted to kill people and had guns in the car, the complaint states.

Brookville Borough police officers arrived at the truck stop parking lot and found the silver Ford Fusion in an RV parking spot near the entrance.

As the officers were at the rear of the Fusion, the trunk suddenly popped open, and Strimple appeared in the parking lot about 50 feet behind the car. He appeared very distraught and agitated.

He was sweating and advancing toward the officers with an object in his right hand. He then threw a key toward the feet of one of the officers and told them the “guns” were in the trunk of the Fusion.

Strimple was handcuffed for safety purposes, and he was told the officers were there to offer him help.

Strimple did not want to go to the hospital, but he agreed to talk to a representative of the crisis center, according to the complaint.

Police secured a black pistol version AR-15, one fully-loaded magazine and two partially-loaded magazines from the trunk of the Fusion.

Initially unable to find the 9mm pistol, Strimple advised it was in a black carry case. While in the trunk of the car, the officer observed a small bottle of bleach in a Dollar Store bag leaking as if it had been recently used.

The officer also found a black Glock 9mm handgun, the complaint states.

Strimple was transported to Brookville Police Station to meet with a delegate of the Jefferson-Clearfield Crisis Center.

Strimple was agitated, and it appeared that he was hallucinating about 5g radio waves being used on him, the complaint notes.

The crisis delegate met with Strimple in the holding cell area of the police station. In less than five minutes, the delegate walked out to meet with the officers and said there was nothing she could do for Strimple because he refused to talk to her. She added that he was not suicidal at the time, the complaint states.

According to the complaint, Jefferson-Clearfield Crisis Center completed 302 paperwork (involuntary commitment) for Strimple because of the homicidal ideation and the firearms located in the trunk of his vehicle.

When the 302 warrant came through, Strimple was transported to an area hospital for a mental evaluation.

While in the hospital, it was discovered that when Strimple was asked how he felt, he said homicidal. He was asked “anyone in particular?” and he responded: “Everyone, especially the people who have done me wrong,” the complaint indicates.

It was noted that Strimple recently got fired from his job.

During the investigation, police spoke to a known woman who expressed Strimple’s newfound fascination with firearms.

She stated that he just purchased a couple of new guns in the past few weeks. She indicated that Strimple had been on Suboxone, but she was unsure if he had been taking them recently.

She also stated that he hadn’t been eating or drinking much over the past couple of weeks, was acting very strange and had referenced dying, according to the complaint.

Around 1:45 p.m. on Thursday, July 21, a search of Strimples’ vehicle was initiated. A black tactical bag was located on the front passenger seat containing the following items: fury tactical knife, paracord, compass, SCCA flashlight, USCCA tactical multi-tool, SCCA bacterial wipes and tactical gauze, the complaint states.

According to the complaint, Brookville Borough police say: “based on the evidence and facts presented, it is believed Strimple had the intent to commit mass murder.

“Within the past week, Strimple purchased two firearms and ammunition totaling 90 rounds. He admitted to homicidal thoughts toward everyone and took the step to transport the firearms and ammunition to a high-traffic public place.”

He is awaiting a preliminary hearing.

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report of retail theft that occurred June 20 at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store in Clearfield. During the incident, an Illinois man allegedly stole 19 rolls of copper wire valued at $1,951.04. The suspect was positively identified as Vasile Coste, 51, of Chicago, Ill., who has numerous warrants out for retail theft. Local police have also obtained a felony warrant for Coste.

Sandy Township

• Police reported a false alarm occurred at Brady Street Beer on July 24.
• On July 24, police were contacted by a 34-year-old Reynoldsville man who reported that his 32-year-old estranged wife had been harassing him. Officers handled the situation without incident.
• On July 24, police were contacted by a 63-year-old Brady Street man who reported that his 73-year-old landlord had been harassing him because he changed the locks on the apartment so the landlord could not enter without permission. 
• Police received a report July 24 of a vehicle striking a utility pole on Maple Avenue in the area of the Oklahoma Elementary School. Afterwards, it fled the scene.  According to police, the black vehicle caused moderate damage to the pole and should likely be moderately damaged itself.  Officers searched the area, but there was no sign of the vehicle.  
• Police reported a false alarm occurred July 25 at a Treasure Lake residence.
• On July 25, police were contacted by a Judge Road resident who reported that someone got into his shed and stole approximately $900 worth of tools and equipment.  The investigation continues.
• On July 25, police were called to a Brady Street residence for a reported disturbance between a landlord and his tenant.  The investigation continues.
• On July 25, police were contacted by a 35-year-old Mayport man who reported that he lost his wallet in the area of Save ‘A Lot.
• On July 26, police were contacted by a Treasure Lake man who reported that an unknown male followed his wife through the back gate and then to their home.  He stopped in front of their residence and when confronted, the man accused his wife of flying a drone over his business. 
• Police reported a false alarm occurred July 26 at Save ‘A Lot
• On July 26, police were contacted by employees of Dunkin Donuts who reported that suspicious men were walking around in front of the store.  Upon arrival, officers located one of the men matching the provided description.  The man stated he was waiting to have his hair cut and was tired of waiting inside, so he was walking around the plaza.  Officers handled the situation without incident. 
• On July 26, police were contacted by a woman who reported that while getting gas at the Falls Creek Sheetz, she observed three men and two women at another pump who appeared to be talking about her.  When the women approached, they commented about her appearance and asked to use her card to pay for their gas.  She said no and left the area. 
• Police reported several 911 hang-up calls from a Treasure Lake residence on July 26.  Officers located a 65-year-old woman parked at the beach who said she was asleep when she heard someone pounding on her door.  When she went out to answer it, no one was there, but she saw a vehicle driving by slowly so she tried to follow it.  The woman was unable to locate the vehicle, however, and pulled over. 
• On July 27, police were contacted by a contractor who reported that someone took a saw valued at $1,200 from a job site in Treasure Lake.
• On July 27, police had contact with a 66-year-old Home Camp Road man who had gotten into a confrontation with city employees at the water treatment plant over the disposal of fireworks behind the plant.  Officers handled the situation without incident. 
• On July 27, police were contacted by a 50-year-old man who reported that while his wife was pumping gas at the Falls Creek Sheetz, a man operating a van with a New York or New Jersey plate was staring at her, and then a female approached asking her to pay for their gas.  His wife said no and left the scene. 
• On July 27, police were contacted by a 50-year-old Dixon Avenue woman who reported that someone was setting off fireworks in the neighborhood, which woke her up as well as her dog.

CLEARFIELD – One of the men who escaped from the Clearfield County Jail on Memorial Day was in court twice this week.

Donald John White, 46, had been incarcerated on kidnapping, unlawful restraint, terroristic threats and assault charges in one case, and terroristic threats, assault and harassment in a second, when he and Robert Miller Jr., left the grounds on May 30 while on grass cutting detail.

On Thursday, he was before Judge Paul Cherry for a previously-negotiated plea agreement, which would give him a four-month jail sentence in exchange for him pleading guilty to only terroristic threats in both cases.

Assistant District Attorney Steven Johnston stated that the commonwealth wanted to withdraw this agreement because White now has several other cases pending.

Cherry allowed the plea to be withdrawn.

On Wednesday during centralized court, White waived felony charges of fleeing or attempting to elude police, as well as misdemeanor counts of flight to avoid apprehension, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, recklessly endangering another person, intentional possession of a controlled substance and numerous summaries in relation to a chase prior to his apprehension on June 17 in Huston Township.

According to that affidavit, police were dispatched to Penfield because they had received information that White, who was allegedly armed and ready to fire on police, was going to be in that area in a black Nissan Sentra.

He was spotted on Diamond Street in the passenger side of the vehicle. After a trooper tried to stop the car, the driver jumped out and White reportedly moved into the driver’s seat.

White fled on state Route 255 and a chase continued for seven miles into Elk County.

Additional troopers joined in the race with speeds going “well over 100 mph” while White allegedly passed numerous vehicles and oncoming traffic was forced off the roadway to avoid head-on collisions.

       “White even passed on blind curves, nearly colliding with numerous unsuspecting motorists,” according to the criminal complaint.

Near Weedville, a trooper deployed spike strips, which caused White’s vehicle’s tires to slowly start deflating.

Police said he tried to continue to evade them by driving left onto Hemlock Street in Jay Township and then driving through residential yards.

At one point, he drove at a reportedly high speed, through a yard with an above-ground swimming pool with people in it.

A trooper was able to use the precision immobilization technique, which caused White to drive down a high grass covered embankment. The vehicle became disabled and White left it to run on foot.

Eventually White ran into the side of another police vehicle that was positioned to stop him.

An electronic incapacitation device was used to try to slow White down.

Three troopers than physically restrained him as he refused to be handcuffed. Once in custody, he was found to have a small amount of methamphetamine in his pocket.

During the chase, three state police vehicles were damaged, according to the report.

While on the run, White also stole a motorcycle in Bigler Township for which he is charged with felony counts of theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property and theft by deception, as well as several summaries.

White had additional kidnapping, strangulation, terroristic threats, simple assault, false imprisonment and more charges held to court on June 17 in relation to his actions with the same victim on Jan. 3. (for more information on this case, click here)

He is also facing escape charges and he has an additional case in Jefferson County.

The other escapee, Miller was located at his daughter’s home in Clearfield on June 26.

State police at Clearfield

• State police received a report of theft July 20 on the Woodland – Bigler Highway in Bradford Township. During the incident, a Morrisdale man allegedly used a counterfeit $50 at Minit Mart. Charges are currently pending at this time.
• State police received a report of retail theft July 27 at the Dollar General store in Morrisdale. The investigation is ongoing at this time.
• State police received a report of theft July 11 on Hill Street in Chester Hill Borough. During the incident, someone allegedly stole a black Mongoose BMX bike with white lettering. The investigation is ongoing.
• State police received a report of an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle July 25 on Sawmill Road in Cooper Township. The investigation is ongoing at this time.
• State police reported that a stolen BMX bicycle was located July 30 in a wooded area in Morris Township. The bicycle was returned to its owner.
• State police received a report of stolen vehicle parts July 30 on Hoop Up Road in Beccaria Township. Troopers say that sometime between July 23 and 30, a catalytic converter was stolen from the victim’s vehicle.
• State police reported a DUI occurred July 30 in the area of Wallaceton-Bigler Highway and Pinetop Road in Bradford Township. According to troopers, a Philipsburg man was found to be driving while under the influence. Charges are currently pending at this time.

Lawrence Township

• Police reported a drug-related DUI occurred July 31 in the area of Mill Road. According to police, officers encountered a Pittsburgh woman inside her parked vehicle and she was suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance. She was also found in possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges are currently pending at this time.

Sandy Township

• Police received a report of suspicious activity July 29 at a business on Industrial Drive.  Upon investigation, it was found that there was a crew working in the building; the situation was handled without incident.
• On July 29, police were contacted by a property owner on Quarry Avenue who reported that a neighbor cut down bushes on his property.  The investigation continues.
• On July 29, police received a report about a man who had apparently overdosed and was slumped over the seat in his vehicle at a business on Industrial Drive.  EMS transported the 42-year-old Treasure Lake man to the hospital for treatment. 
• On July 30, police were contacted by a 23-year-old DuBois woman who reported that while she was in the Falls Creek Sheetz, an unknown male followed her inside and when they were leaving at the same time, he touched her inappropriately. 
• Police reported a false alarm occurred July 30 at a Black Walnut Road residence. 
• On July 30, police were contacted by a Hanes Drive resident who reported that a homeless woman was trying to get into her home.  Upon arrival, officers located the 18-year-old woman who had been living in the woods.  After speaking with the woman, she was transported to the hospital for evaluation and assistance. 
• On July 30, police were contacted by a 23-year-old Reynoldsville woman who reported that her brother’s children’s mother was trying to get her to sell her medication. She also stated that the children were not being properly tended to.  Upon arrival, officers handled the situation without incident. 
• On July 31, police were contacted by a 57-year-old Treasure Lake man who reported that two motorcycles pulled out behind him while he was travelling through Treasure Lake.  When he stopped his vehicle in the middle of the road, one of the motorcycles hit the back of his vehicle. Because he was afraid to stop, he continued driving on until he reached the front gate. The motorcycles turned off prior to reaching the front gate; officers located one of the motorcyclists and handled the situation without incident. 

CLEARFIELD – Reed E. Meeker Jr., 39, of Osceola Mills is charged by Clearfield state police with criminal solicitation – child pornography, a felony of the second-degree.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the investigation began on July 12 after members of a child predator exploitation organization had a multi-day text conversation with Meeker.

Meeker allegedly attempted to solicit photos of two people whom he believed were underage girls, as well as described sex acts that he wanted to perform on them and them to perform on each other.

State police were provided screenshots of the conversations with photographs, where Meeker’s face and private area were reportedly visible.  He was identified by his Megan’s Law photo.

In an interview July 26, Meeker admitted that he attempted to solicit sexual photographs of two underage girls whom he believed were under the age of 12.

Meeker had his preliminary hearing continued Wednesday during centralized court, and a new court date has not been set yet. He remains in Clearfield County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.

Clearfield Borough

• While on patrol, police located two wanted individuals inside an East Locust Street establishment.  The individuals were taken into custody. 
• Clearfield County sheriff deputies stopped a motorist who was driving erratically and who nearly struck their patrol vehicle.  Clearfield Borough police were requested to assist and further investigate the incident.  The driver was reportedly found to be intoxicated and taken into custody. 
• Police responded to a missing persons report at the Clearfield County Fairgrounds.  Police located the individual and returned them to the complainant. 
• Police assisted EMS with multiple medical emergencies at the fairgrounds. 

Lawrence Township

• Police received a report of a suspicious male Aug. 3 on Scribbers Road. Upon arrival on-scene, contact was made with a 36-year-old male from Valier, Pa., and it was found he’d been involved with a vehicle pursuit with Clearfield Borough police earlier in the evening. Additionally, it was found that the male had two active arrest warrants and was in possession of a bag containing suspected methamphetamine. He was released into the custody of borough officers and housed in county jail. Charges have been filed through the district court.
• Police reported a drug-related DUI occurred Aug. 2 in the area of River and Alliance roads. During a traffic stop, contact was made with the driver – a 30-year-old Lewistown woman – and it was found she didn’t have insurance for the vehicle and that her license was also suspended. Further investigation revealed that she was driving under the influence of a controlled substance(s) and a search allegedly turned up a controlled substance and paraphernalia. The woman submitted to a legal blood draw, and was then released; charges are to be filed through the district court.
• Police received a report of a suspicious male July 2 at Long John Silver’s. According to police, he’d urinated in the restaurant’s parking lot and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and possibly a controlled substance. He had also thrown up numerous times, and there were warrants out for his arrest. The male was taken into custody and put in county jail with charges pending.

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

• Alexander C. Bohensky, DuBois
• Allison C. Bowman, Curwensville
• Brion K. Brown, Osceola Mills
• Jason S. Brundridge, Penfield
• Greg L. Butterfuss, Conneaut Lake
• Charles R. Cizio, Morrisdale
• Justin E. Clinton, DuBois
• Jeremiah R. Coder, DuBois
• Asley M. Collins, Clearfield
• Dennis S. Collins Jr., DuBois
• Jeremy C. Curry, DuBois
• Michael D. English, Philipsburg
• James I. Esposti III, Mahaffey
• Peggy S. Evans, Philipsburg
• James S. Gillen, Burnside
• Damian E. Goho, Unknown
• Kory M. Graw, DuBois   
• Thomas T. Hall, Clearfield
• Jesse L. Keagle, DuBois
• Chelsea L. Kephart, Clearfield
• Sean A. Kerchinski, Ridgway
• Christian H. Kirk Jr., West Decatur
• Angela M. Kunkle, Clearfield
• Brandon C. Lefort, Philipsburg
• Samantha D. Lefort, Morrisdale
• Shane J. Litzinger, Irvona
• Alexis N. London
• Silvino Lopez, Clearfield
• Michael S. Maines, Woodland
• Shelby R. Martin, Morrisdale
• Allen P. McBride, unknown
• Tyler J. McGlynn, Houtzdale
• Dennis P. Morley, Greensburg KY
• Stephen J. Moskel, Madera
• Bryon E. Mowrey, DuBois
• Thor A. Myers Sr., Unknown Address
• Brett M. O’Connor, Clearfield
• Vincent L. Panebianco, Ridgway
• Robert A. Polito III, DuBois
• James A. Potter, Clearfield
• Bruce P. Raab, Houtzdale
• Michael J. Reed, unknown
• Joseph A. Richtarsic, Falls Creek
• Derik Rougeux, Clearfield
• Floyd E. Russell, Clearfield
• Remington C. Scott, Ohio
• Robert W. Sierzega, DuBois
• Tealicia F. Simmons, Clearfield
• Kenneth D. Smith, Olanta
• Michael A. Smith, Houtzdale
• Patrick W. Smith, Houtzdale
• Paul M. Snyder, Coalport
• Timothy A. Spratt, Curwensville
• Adam L. Sypin, Philipsburg
• Coty T. Trump, Philipsburg
• John T. Varner Sr., Osceola Mills
• Marshall L. Waite, Coalport
• Jack D. Wallace, Woodland
• Matthew C. Waugaman, Hyde
• Daniel W. Wetzel, Mahaffey
• Victoria E. Williams, Madera
• Jason W. Witherite, Luthersburg