Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force Seek Public’s Help in Locating Fugitives of the Week
February 18, 2025 – The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is seeking assistance from the public in locating four fugitives who are currently at large. Authorities are offering rewards for information leading to their arrests.
Maxwell Davis
Maxwell Davis, 23, is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation related to a prior charge of carrying a concealed weapon. He is also wanted by the Columbus Police Department for aggravated robbery. Davis is described as a Black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 5 inches tall. He has known ties to Mansfield and Columbus.
Mickey Jones
Mickey Jones, 55, is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for aggravated possession of drugs, a third-degree felony. Jones is described as a white male with blond hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. He has connections in Mansfield, Plymouth, and Willard, Ohio.
David Moore
David Moore, 61, is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for failure to provide a change of address as a registered sex offender. Moore is described as a white male with black hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 7 inches tall. He has known ties to Mansfield.
Dourrough Rutherford
Dourrough Rutherford, 57, is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for failing to verify his current address as a registered sex offender. Rutherford is described as a Black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. He is known to have ties to Mansfield.
How to Provide Information
Authorities urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of these fugitives to contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or text the keyword WANTED along with the tip to 847411 (tip411). All tipsters can remain anonymous, and reward money is available for information leading to an arrest.
Morning Commute Disrupted by Plow Truck Crash in Ashland County
ASHLAND COUNTY, OH – A single-vehicle crash early this morning caused traffic disruptions at the intersection of U.S. Route 42 and State Route 603.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, a northbound pickup truck equipped with a plow veered off the right side of the highway, striking a cement culvert before crashing into a utility pole. The impact brought down fiber optic lines, initially believed to belong to Armstrong Cable. However, after further investigation, officials determined the lines were part of Frontier Communications’ network.
Emergency responders from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, and Ashland Fire Department & EMS arrived at the scene. No injuries were reported.
Shelly Smith & Sons Towing worked to clear the wreckage while Frontier crews assessed the damage. Residents and businesses in the area may experience temporary service outages as repairs are made throughout the day.
The crash remains under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Juvenile Crashes Stolen Car, Flees Scene Before Capture in Ashland County
Ashland County, OH – A juvenile suspect is in custody after crashing a stolen vehicle on Interstate 71 and attempting to flee law enforcement early this morning.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), Troopers responded to a single-vehicle crash involving a 2013 Hyundai Sonata in the southbound lanes of I-71 near mile marker 189 at approximately 7:46 a.m.
An off-duty firefighter had stopped to check on the driver, asking if he was okay. However, the juvenile suspect suddenly fled the scene on foot, prompting the firefighter to alert the OSHP he fled across I-71 and into a field.
Upon arrival, OSHP discovered that the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Columbus around 3:00 a.m. this morning.
About an half an hour later, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office deputies located the suspect on Ashland County Road 1302. The suspect had allegedly attempted to steal another vehicle by breaking into it and damaging the steering column. A foot chase ensued, leading deputies to State Route 89 and near 399 Ashland County Road 1302.
Deputies took the suspect into custody at approximately 8:42 a.m. Following his arrest, Polk EMS transported him to UH Samaritan Medical Center for evaluation.
Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office continue to investigate the incident.
Morrow County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Wick announced that on February 13, 2025, the Morrow County Grand Jury returned an indictment against Joshua Boucher on a seventeen (17) count indictment for:
Attempted Aggravated Murder;
Attempted Murder;
Aggravated Burglary;
Aggravated Robbery (3 counts);
Felonious Assault (3 counts);
Domestic Violence;
Kidnapping;
Disrupting Public Services;
Tampering with Evidence (4 counts);
and Breaking and Entering.
Multiple counts of the indictment carry firearm specifications that allege that the Defendant brandished or used a firearm in the commission of the offense.
This indictment originates from events that occurred on April 1, 2024 in Chesterville that resulted in the shooting of D.B., the wife of Mr. Boucher and a multi-county pursuit of Mr. Boucher. The case has been investigated by Morrow County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau.
Mr. Boucher is currently being held in the Ashland County Jail on separate charges related to the April 1st events and will be arraigned by the Morrow County Common Pleas Court at a later date.
As with all persons indicted by the Morrow County Grand Jury, Mr. Boucher is to be considered innocent until proof of guilt is found in the Common Pleas Court.
Andrew S. Wick
Morrow County Prosecuting Attorney
Note: Read case details here https://www.ashlandcountypictures.com/?s=Joshua+Boucher+
Drugs Seized in Ashland Search Warrant, One Arrested
ASHLAND, OH – A drug-related search warrant executed on February 13, 2025, led to the seizure of methamphetamine and the arrest of an Ashland man, Ashland Police Division Detectives confirmed.
Ashland Detectives, assigned to the METRICH Enforcement Unit and the Ashland Police Division, carried out the search at a residence on West Main Street as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation.
During the operation, detectives confiscated methamphetamine, and Brian Purdy, 52, was taken into custody. He was transported to the Ashland County Jail on drug-related charges. The Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing the case
The METRICH Enforcement Unit expressed appreciation to the community for providing valuable tips that contributed to the successful operation. Officials encourage residents to continue reporting suspected drug activity to aid in ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug distribution in the area.
Ashland County Pictures News would also extended thanks to those who submitted news tips and photos related to this story.
Citizens can call the METRICH Crime Tip Hotline at 419-52-CRIME (419-522-7463) or the Task Force line at 419-755-9728 or by using the METRICH app.
For updates on this case and other local news, stay tuned.
Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Era Dinner to Feature Kim Phuc as Guest Speaker
ASHLAND, OHIO – The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Committee has announced that its 6th annual Vietnam Veterans Era Dinner will take place on March 29, 2025, featuring Kim Phuc, known worldwide as the “Napalm Girl” from the iconic Vietnam War photograph, as the keynote speaker. The event will be held at the Ashland Eagles, and tickets are now available for purchase at DeSanto Kellogg Law Office, 432 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio. Seating is limited, and those interested can call (419) 289-1454 for more information.
The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Committee, which includes Carl Rickert, Bob DeSanto, Lonnie Miller, Greg Gorrell, Jack Cadley, Brooks Whitmore, Tim Schar, and Ann Schar, continues to organize this annual event to honor those who served during the Vietnam War and to educate future generations about the complexities of the conflict.
A Legacy of Thought-Provoking Speakers
Committee member Bob DeSanto reflected on past reunions, which have featured esteemed guest speakers and authors who have shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the Vietnam War:
Ron Rutowski, author of We Were Not the Enemy, discussed the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans and the Cold War’s political and military complexities.
Lou Jennings, author of 19 Minutes to Live, shared his harrowing experiences as an Air Cavalry Cobra Gunship pilot, highlighting the critical role of helicopters in the Vietnam War.
Donna Rowe, a former head nurse at the 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon, provided insight into the medical challenges and heroism in the war’s triage units.
Colonel Robert Springer, a Vietnam veteran and NASA astronaut, recounted his time as a Marine Corps pilot and his transition to space exploration.
Patrick McLaughlin, author of Cheerful Obedience, presented the challenges of infantry service in Vietnam and the deep bonds formed among soldiers.
This year marks a significant milestone, as Kim Phuc will be the first non-Vietnam veteran to serve as the event’s guest speaker.
Kim Phuc: A Story of Tragedy and Triumph
Kim Phuc was only nine years old in 1972 when she was photographed fleeing her village after a South Vietnamese Air Force pilot mistakenly dropped napalm on civilians. The Pulitzer Prize-winning image, captured by Associated Press photographer Nick Ut, became one of the most haunting and powerful symbols of the Vietnam War.
Severely burned and left for dead, Kim was eventually rescued by Ut, who took her to a hospital where she fought for survival. For years, she endured painful medical treatments and struggled with the trauma of her experience. The Communist government in Vietnam later used her as a propaganda tool, a role she deeply resented.
Kim eventually sought asylum in Canada, where she rebuilt her life. Now a wife, mother, and advocate for peace, she has dedicated herself to helping children affected by war through The Kim Foundation International. She is also the author of Fire Road, a memoir detailing her journey from war victim to global humanitarian.
Kim Phuc’s message is one of healing and hope. She often says, “I am no longer a victim of war. I am now a survivor of war.” Her presence at the Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Reunion is expected to be an inspiring and deeply moving experience for all attendees.
Honoring Veterans, Preserving History
The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Reunion continues to serve as an important event for veterans and their families, fostering connections and ensuring the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten. The 2025 reunion is sure to be an unforgettable gathering, with Kim Phuc’s speech offering a powerful perspective on war, survival, and reconciliation.
For tickets and further details, contact the DeSanto Kellogg Law Office at 432 Center Street (419) 289-1454 from 9am to 4pm.
I finish lacing my shoes and shout to Ken, “I’m going to take Mary, Grace, and Joy for a little walk downtown.”
At the mention of “walk,” Grace jerks into full alert. We barely make it out the door before she leaps ahead like a fuzzy whirlwind and walks on her two hind legs. I don’t let her walk ahead without a command and a slight tug on her leash, which puts her into a full somersault.
Mary is trotting along like the sweet lady she is, and Joy stops midstride and lays out flat on the pavement like she fell out of the sky. I pick Joy up and we continue down Main Street and then Grace comes to a dead halt. I look down to see if she is hurt and out of the corner of my eye I see several stopped cars with laughing people inside.
What they see is Miss-Puppy-Feet-dog-walker with one year old Grace checking out new stuff to see, smell and tinkle on; baby Joy tucked into half my coat and a leash with a collar attached and no Mary. Apparently, Mary decided this was too much drama, so she slipped her collar and then walked elegantly behind me.
What to do? Wave, smile, nod, and disappear into the door of the nearest business then make our way back home through alleys and parking lots.
Now it’s time to run errands. Grace hears the jingle of car keys. She flies to the back door and stands there looking at me expectantly. Oops! forgot my list in the other room, so Grace follows me through the house to make sure I don’t sneak off without her.
The possibility of staying home never dawns on her. She likes the truck, so I take her everywhere: drug store, gas station, and church.
Just when I think I can’t clean up one more pee or wipe twelve dirty paws or listen to one more bark, Grace strolls into the kitchen and looks at me with eyes that say, I’m sitting so nicely. Don’t you want to pet me?
I lower my body down and hug her tummy and face and tell her what a good girl she is. Grace puts her forehead to my chest just below my neck and rests it there. This is my Grace Hug. Life doesn’t get any better!
Grace is God’s gift to me. Day by day, and minute by minute, Grace presents an opportunity to discover not what she can become but what I can become. Grace makes me laugh. She challenges me to get more exercise.
Joy is still in shock as the baby and older Mary tries to enjoy her company. All in all, I am blessed with a typical day, everyday with these three amazing pups.
Richland County Commissioners Release State of the County Video
MANSFIELD, Ohio – The Richland County Board of Commissioners released the State of the
County Video during regular session on Tuesday morning. This video highlights the 2024 year
in review and includes presentations from County Commissioners Tony Vero, Darrell Banks,
and Cliff Mears, as well as County Administrator Andrew Keller, Clerk of Courts Denise Ruhl,
and Prosecutor Jodie Schumacher.
The video spotlights several of the County’s important projects, community investments, and
financial position. It is the second annual State of the County Video released by the
Commissioners as part of the Board’s emphasis on transparency and local government
accountability.
Reed to Perform His 40th Faculty Recital on Feb. 23
Thomas Reed of the Ashland University Department of Music will present his annual faculty recital on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 7:30 p.m., in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall at the Center for the Arts (331 College Ave.). The performance is free and open to the public.
For Reed, who plays the clarinet and saxophone, this marks his 40th faculty recital during his time at AU.
The first half of the recital will include classical selections by Sergei Prokofiev and Charles Reed, assisted by pianist Kevin Jones. The second half will feature jazz renditions of popular classics by Milan Dvorák, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Gabriel Fauré and Ferde Grofé, and assisting musicians are Jane Reed (violin), McCray Martin (piano), Paul Martin (bass) and Steve Berry (drums).
Reed is a professor of music at AU and received the university’s Excellence in Scholarship award in 2012. He is a member of the Akron Symphony Orchestra and the Ashland Symphony Orchestra, and also has performed frequently with the Cleveland Orchestra. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, a master’s in saxophone performance from the University of Akron and a doctor of musical arts in clarinet performance from the Ohio State University.
METRICH: Drugs and Guns Seized in Ashland County Search Warrant
On 2/5/25, Ashland Detectives assigned to the METRICH Enforcement Unit, the Ashland Special Response Team, the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ashland Police Division executed a drug-related search warrant in Sullivan.
The search was part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation by the METRICH Enforcement Unit. Detectives seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, prescription pills, bath salts, and two firearms.
As a result of the search, Luke A. Squire, 29, Sabrina M. Love, 28, Darryl E. Marks, 33, and Trent M. Sexton, 22, were arrested and taken to the Ashland County Jail on drugs and weapon charges.
The Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing the case.
The METRICH Enforcement Unit would like to thank the community for providing tips that helped to execute this search warrant successfully and encourage all citizens to continue to report suspected drug activity.
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Joe Lyons •
February 18, 2025
