Ashland Police Division Personnel Honored at Awards Banquet
On February 22, 2025, the Ashland Police Division recognized personnel in a ceremony held at Mount Vernon Estate. In addition to the division-issued awards, State Representative Melanie Miller was present to recognize APD personnel with certificates of commendation from the 67th Ohio House District.
Representative Miller opened the ceremony by summarizing legislation that could impact Ohio law enforcement agencies in 2025.
Chief of Police David Lay presented the following awards during the ceremony:
Officer Adam Srnis for 5 Years of Service to the Ashland community.
Officer Tevin McGuire for an Educational Achievement Award after completing an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Degree at North Central State College.
Two groups of officers were presented with Unit Citations to recognize coordinated teamwork during incidents that are not typical of their basic duties. The first group of citations stemmed from the quick response to a robbery at Rite Aid in June 2024 that ultimately ended in the apprehension of four suspects. Recognized for their work on this case were Lieutenant Aaron Kline, Sergeant Lee Eggeman, Officer Adam Brock, Officer Kirby Clemens, Officer Kyle Dress and K9 Athos, Officer Timothy McGlugritch, Officer Adam Wolbert, Detective James Coey and Detective Kody Hying.
The second Unit Citation resulted from a grand theft investigation at Bill Harris car dealership in December 2024. Officers were investigating the report of an attempted motor vehicle theft from the lot and tried to stop a suspect as it left the area. The vehicle crashed after a short pursuit, and the suspects fled on foot, sparking a three-hour search that ultimately resulted in the arrests of four suspects. Captain Craig Kiley, Sergeant Jonathan Kohler, Officer Joseph Artrip, Officer Tevin McGuire, Officer Bryce Stormer, K9 Smokey, Detective Lieutenant Curt Dorsey, and Detective James Coey received recognition for their work on this case.
Officer Abrahm Neumann earned a Meritorious Service Award for risking his safety to rescue a dog falling through the ice at Brookside Park Pond in January 2024. Although he was successful in helping the dog, Abe also fell through the ice and could not get out of the water by himself. Officer Joseph Artrip rescued Officer Neumann from the pond with the help of two off-duty EMTs. For his efforts, Officer Artrip earned a Life-Saving Award.
The 2024 peer vote awards went to the following staff:
Records Specialist Morgan Shilliday was awarded Civilian of the Year. Morgan has worked in the Records Bureau for three years. Her responsibilities in Records included body-camera redactions and assisting administration as a backup for payroll submissions. Morgan’s peers described her as helpful, hard-working, knowledgeable, happy, friendly, thorough, and trustworthy.
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
Morgan was assigned to the Detective Bureau through February 21, helping them with case reports and evidence. On Monday, February 24, Morgan’s job classification changes to Police Recruit as she begins the Police Academy at North Central State College. Chief Lay said, “We are excited that Morgan chose to pursue a career in law enforcement with the City of Ashland, and we can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings.”
Officer of the Year honors went to Adam Srnis. Adam previously won the award in 2022. He also earned Chief’s Achievement Award honors in 2023. Adam’s coworkers described him as dedicated, proactive, hard-working, and honest. Chief Lay remarked, “Three performance recognitions in the first five years of a career is remarkable and they are a testament to how Adam’s character aligns with the qualities that we believe provide the best police service to the community.”
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
Detective Lieutenant Curt Dorsey won Supervisor of the Year. Curt has served the Ashland community for eighteen years. He currently leads the Detective Bureau and manages the case follow-up Division-wide. Curt’s peers and direct reports described him as a good leader who is helpful, hard-working, and friendly. Lieutenant Dorsey has been very involved in the Division’s community policing efforts, coordinating the Fishing Derby since its inception. Chief Lay said, “Curt is willing to take on any task and has been instrumental in the successful completion of a number of Division projects.”
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
The Chief’s Achievement Award presentation ended the evening, with Detective Kara Pearce receiving the honors. Kara began her career in public safety as a firefighter and EMT with the Loudonville Fire Department after graduating from Loudonville High School in 2009. She also worked as a Dispatcher for the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and the Loudonville Police Department. After graduating from the Police Academy, Kara continued to work for LPD before joining the Ashland Police Division in 2016.
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
In her 8-year career with APD, Kara has served as a Field Training Officer, Evidence Custodian, and Crisis Negotiator. She has been assigned to the Detective Bureau for three years and is a forensic interviewer. Kara enjoys her role as an investigator, her interactions with children, and helping them deal with trauma.
Kara coordinates the Division’s most significant community engagement program, Shop with a Cop, and the fundraising efforts leading up to the event. That program allows several hundred children to experience a nice Christmas that otherwise may not have had the opportunity every year. Chief Lay noted, “Kara’s capacity for empathy and compassion for others stands out. People routinely ask me how Kara is doing and then share a story about how she helped them once.”
Mayor Matt Miller closed the ceremony by thanking those in attendance for their commitment to public safety and keeping the City safe.
Car Collides with Semi on US Route 30 in Ashland County; One Injured
Ashland County, Ohio – Emergency crews responded to a crash involving a car and a semi-truck on the westbound lanes of US Route 30, just east of County Road 175, at approximately 7:20 p.m. tonight.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 24-year-old Landry Amstutz of Dalton, Ohio, was driving a Honda CR-V westbound on the highway when his vehicle went off the right side of the road. The car struck the trailer of a 2020 Mack semi-truck, which had been pulled onto the shoulder.
The semi’s driver, Chad Miller, 52, of Bucyrus, Ohio, had stopped to inspect his truck after experiencing a blown right-side steer tire. While he was checking the tire, the Honda collided with the rear of the trailer, causing the SUV to spin back onto the roadway. The Honda rolled over before coming to rest in the median.
Jeromesville Fire Department and EMS responded to the scene. Amstutz was transported to University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Miller was uninjured.
Highway Patrol confirmed that drugs and alcohol are not suspected factors in the crash. The Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation.
Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase Returns to Ashland County March 8-9, 2025
Ashland, OH – Outdoor enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase returns to the Ashland County Fairgrounds on March 8-9, 2025. Hosted in the Green Merchant’s Building, this family-friendly event promises a weekend full of activities celebrating the great outdoors.
Doors open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is just $5, with all proceeds benefiting Advocates for Families.
This year’s showcase is packed with interactive exhibits, vendor displays, and exciting demonstrations:
Outback Ray’s Amazing Animal Show: Don’t miss this crowd favorite on Sunday at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by Explore Ashland.
Cooking Demonstrations: Learn new outdoor recipes with demos held both days at noon.
Fishing and K-9 Demonstrations: Perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.
Kids’ Fishing Pond & Free Headlamps: The first 100 kids each day will receive a free headlamp courtesy of The Outdoor Channel.
Attendees can explore booths from popular vendors, including Fin Feather Fur, 7 Rivers Marine, Wells Travel, and Hotshots Shooting Center. Other highlights include Ultimate Veteran Adventures, a variety of food trailers, and the chance to adopt a pet from the Ashland County Dog Shelter.
“It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to experience the outdoors in a fun and engaging way,” said event organizer Sandy Burkholder.
For more information, email Sandy at sburkholder@agoc.com or visit the event page on Facebook at facebook.com/followArmstrong/events.
Come out, celebrate the outdoors, and support a great cause at the Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase!
Jesse Santos Appears in Ashland County Court for Bond Hearing on Multiple Charges Including Kidnapping and Child Endangerment
February 25, 2025 | Ashland, Ohio – In a high-profile case that has captured local attention, Jesse Santos, 59, appeared before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Emily Bates this morning for a bond hearing via video conference. Santos faces multiple charges stemming from alleged incidents that occurred between September 17 and September 18, 2024.
According to the website of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Jesse Santos is listed as a district pastor serving the Canton, Carrollton, Massillon Connections, and Wooster Seventh-day Adventist Churches. Neither Santos nor the church has issued an official public statement regarding the charges at this time. Church representatives have not responded to requests for comment.
Charges Detailed in Indictment
The indictment, filed by the Ashland County Grand Jury, outlines four charges against Santos:
Count One: Kidnapping (First-Degree Felony)
Santos is accused of forcibly removing or restraining the liberty of a minor, referred to in the indictment as M.T., for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. The charge is heightened due to the victim being under the age of 18.
Count Two: Gross Sexual Imposition (Fourth-Degree Felony)
The indictment alleges Santos had sexual contact with M.T., compelling submission through force or threat.
Count Three: Sexual Imposition (Third-Degree Misdemeanor)
Prosecutors claim that Santos, significantly older than the victim, engaged in sexual contact with the minor, who was between 13 and 16 years old.
Count Four: Endangering Children (First-Degree Misdemeanor)
Authorities allege that Santos, in a position of responsibility over M.T., created a substantial risk to her health and safety by violating his duty of care.
During the hearing, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Metcalf represented the State of Ohio, while Attorney Catherine Meehan stood as council for Santos. Santos waived the formal reading of the indictment and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Magistrate Bates set bond at $250,000, with options for a surety bond, a bond secured by real estate, or a cash deposit. Conditions for release include:
Signing a personal recognizance agreement.
Remaining within Ohio unless granted written permission by the court.
Compliance with all state laws and court orders.
Immediate enrollment in a court-monitored drug and alcohol testing program upon release.
Abstaining from alcohol and all substances containing THC.
Passive GPS monitoring with a mandatory deposit and monthly fees totaling approximately $97.50.
A curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at an approved residence.
No contact with the victim, her family, or any minors.
Santos must cover his GPS monitoring expenses, including an initial $250 deposit and monthly payments, to avoid bond revocation.
A status conference is scheduled for April 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Judge’s chambers. The jury trial is set to begin on May 20, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., unless resolved or postponed.
The allegations have shocked the local community particularly given Santos’s role in working closely with families and minors through his pastoral duties. Santos remains in custody at the Ashland County Jail, pending bond arrangements.
Ashland University Students Enter National Case Study Competition
PRSSA team develops advocacy campaign in support of public libraries
ASHLAND, Ohio—Four Ashland University students are taking part in the 2025 Public Relations Student Society of America’s (PRSSA) Bateman Case Study Competition. This semester, members of the Ashland University’s PRSSA chapter Mikayla Alcantar, Dana Krukovska, Katelyn Meeks and Maksym Polianskyi are developing a public relations campaign on behalf of EveryLibrary.
EveryLibrary is an advocacy organization dedicated to supporting public libraries nationwide. The Ashland University’s Bateman team seeks to strengthen and diversify EveryLibrary’s grassroots base by reaching out to rural communities like Ashland and college campuses like Ashland University. The team’s messages focus on the role public libraries play in small towns across the country, where the local library is more than just books. It provides free services such as technology access, job search assistance, tax preparation help, craft meetups and educational workshops for all ages. It documents and preserves the community’s history. It serves as a community’s gathering place.
“A library is more than just books. Of course, literature, movies, computers—we offer all of that. But a library is also a concept of a third space: We have our homes as one place, we have our work as another place and the third place is where you go without being charged but still participating in the community life,” said Sandra Hedlund Tunnell, the current president of the Ashland Public Library’s Board of Trustees. “That’s what a library is, a gathering community spot that doesn’t require anything from you besides your participation!”
The Bateman team is creating multimedia content and implementing strategies to engage the Ashland community and fellow Ashland University students in grassroots advocacy for public funding and access to libraries. Follow Ashland University’s Bateman campaign on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572923556563 and Instagram: instagram.com/aueverylibrary/.
Support the student PR campaign by filling out the form on the website: ashlandprssa.org/support.
Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Polk Fire Department & EMS, Sullivan EMS responded to a car versus Amish Buggy in the 500 block of State Route 89 last-night.
3 juveniles was riding in the buggy at the time of the crash, one 91-year-old male driving the car, both heading Northbound on State Route 89.
Minor injuries reported, no one was transported.
Minor injuries reported for the horse.
Drugs and or alcohol is not suspected.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office investigating the crash.
Note: Flashing yellow light was in use at the time of the crash.
Root Beer Incident Sparks Social Media Firestorm at Ontario Center Mall
ASHLAND, OH – A family outing turned controversial Saturday afternoon at the Ontario Center – formerly known as The Richland Mall – when local business owner Tonie Sweeney was accused by a mall security guard of consuming alcohol. In reality, Sweeney had purchased a root beer from YummY Treats Candy & MORE, an allegation that has since ignited a firestorm on social media with some dismissing the episode as satire.
According to a news story on Appleseed News called, “Rootbeer gets family kicked out of mall” the incident unfolded around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Sweeney, who operates Ashland Muffler House with his business partner Martin Seitz, had been at the mall with his family while waiting for their table at Texas Roadhouse.
“We just went to the candy store, picked up some treats and a couple of root beers – the 4pack container clearly labeled as non-alcoholic – and then sat down on a bench,” Sweeney recounted. “Out of nowhere, a security guard stormed over, accusing me of drinking alcohol. I even showed him the bottle, but he insisted he had received a complaint. The situation escalated quickly, words were exchanged and he threatened to escort me out.”
An officer from the Ontario Police Department confirmed that Sweeney was ask to leave per the security guard request, noted that his interaction with Sweeney was entirely cooperative, He even apologized to the officer for wasting his time.
Mall management has since addressed the controversy. Crystal Tolliver, representing the mall, explained that PSC Security out of Los Angeles, CA had been contracted to secure the premises – did not follow the strict protocols requiring higher management confirmation before any removal actions. Tolliver added, “This is a family-friendly environment, and we regret that the security guard actions, as applied by PSC Security, led to this misunderstanding. In fact, PSC Security company had been let go three weeks prior due to a contract termination unrelated to this incident.”
Tolliver also outlined plans for revitalizing the mall, including a multi-million dollar overhaul of the food court, the introduction of an arcade and a health food store, and transforming Victoria’s Secret into a mini mall designed to incubate new startups. “We are committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all our patrons,” she said, noting that a new security firm, Signal Security, will be taking over operations.
The incident even had, YummY Treats Candy & MORE reach out on their Facebook page on February 18, 2025, asking customers to come forward: “Ontario/Mansfield location customers! I’m looking for a customer that visited our location at the Richland mall on Saturday and was escorted out of the building because you were drinking ROOT beer you purchased from us. Please reach out so we can make this right! Please share and help us find the man and his family!”
In a related twist, police reports, during this incident reported the guard located and identified the person’s that were walking around with alcohol beverage involving an Hispanic couple seen with Twisted Tea at the mall, a practice reportedly legal in Texas but not in Ohio – they were not removed from the premises they were asked to dispose of the beverage.
As the story continues to circulate online, community members and social media users remain divided on whether the security guard’s actions were justified or merely a case of overzealous enforcement on private property. Meanwhile, authorities and mall officials are reviewing security protocols to prevent any similar misunderstandings in the future.
Clearer Weather Fuels Speeding on I‑71 as Troopers Crack Down With the Help of the “Bear in the Air”
With temperatures on the rise and roads clear today, motorists on I‑71 seized the opportunity to push their speed limits—often reaching speeds in excess of 90 mph. Troopers from the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, alongside the Ohio State Highway Patrol Aviation Unit, were strategically deployed at the US Route 250 exit to monitor and intercept speeding vehicles.
As I sit there getting photo’s, the moment one speeding vehicle was ticketed, radio updates quickly identified the next offender, the clear skies seem to be giving some drivers the confidence to push their limits, with the high accident rate on I-71 in Ashland County, increased enforcement is both warranted and necessary.
Meanwhile, the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Aviation Section remains a vital part of these operations. Comprising 11 uniformed flight crew members, three helicopters, and 13 airplanes, this unit supports an array of missions—from traffic enforcement and search assistance to aerial photography, evidence relays. Patrol pilots, in particular, are crucial in reducing traffic fatalities; by performing precise speed measurements over set distances, they are able to identify and document dangerous or aggressive driving behaviors.
Authorities are urging drivers to observe posted speed limits and exercise caution on these busy highways, especially as the improving weather brings more traffic. Speed enforcement in Ashland County shows no signs of slowing down, with safety as the top priority, enhanced speed enforcement in Ashland County is set to continue.
Representatives Craig and Miller Introduce Philip Wigal’s Law
COLUMBUS – State Representatives Meredith Craig (R-Smithville) and Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) on Friday introduced Philip Wigal’s Law, legislation to strengthen penalties for drivers who fail to comply with Ohio’s “Move Over Law.”
Town and Country Firefighter Lt. Philip Wigal was tragically struck and killed by a semi-truck while responding to a crash on I-71 near West Salem in 2022. The driver of the semi-truck failed to slow down or move over as required by law.
“I am honored to work with the Wigal family on this important and much-needed legislation,” said Craig. “This initiative has been long overdue, and it is crucial that we take action now. I am committed to advancing this bill through the House and working closely with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure that we pass it into law.”
“Through this legislation, we can make a viable change to help keep Ohio drivers safer all while protecting our first responders and honoring the legacy of Philip Wigal,” said Miller. “I am urging my colleagues to make the safety of first responders a top priority and pass this legislation as soon as possible.”
The current penalty for drivers who fail to move over or slow down when approaching any stationary vehicle with flashing lights, including emergency vehicles, is limited to a $300 dollar fine.
Penalties under the proposed bill will be as follows:
First Violation: Fine up to $300 (Current Law);
Subsequent Violations (within one year): Fine up to $1,000;
Violation Resulting in Injury: Fine up to $5,000 and potential license suspension;
Violation Resulting in Death: Fine up to $10,000, charge of vehicular homicide, and license suspension.
The legislation awaits a bill number and committee assignment.
Ohio Channel Highlights Ashland County Courthouse in New Documentary Series
COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Channel, a service of Ohio’s public broadcasting stations, has released a new installment in its documentary series Ohio Courthouses: Seats of Justice, focusing on the historic Ashland County Common Pleas Court.
This latest feature provides viewers with an in-depth look at the courthouse’s architecture, history, and vital role in the local community. Part of the Ohio Channel’s mission to offer comprehensive public affairs programming, the series highlights the importance of courthouses as central pillars of justice in American society.
Ohio is home to 88 county courthouses, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings vary in design—from modern structures to those that have remained virtually unchanged since their construction. Each courthouse reflects the unique needs and heritage of its county while serving as a symbol of the state’s commitment to justice.
“Courthouses are more than just buildings—they’re places where life-changing decisions are made,” said an Ohio Channel spokesperson. “Through this series, we aim to showcase the rich history and enduring significance of these important institutions.”
The Ohio Channel’s programming combines live Statehouse coverage with content from local PBS stations, providing viewers statewide with insight into issues affecting all Ohioans.
The Ohio Courthouses: Seats of Justice series, including the feature on Ashland County, is available for viewing on the Ohio Channel’s website and affiliated PBS stations.
See video at: https://www.ohiochannel.org/video/ohio-courthouses-seats-of-justice-ashland-county
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Joe Lyons •
February 27, 2025
