Joe Lyons

Authorities Seek Help Identifying Cuyahoga John Doe

(CLEVELAND, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson are seeking assistance to identify a man whose body was found Nov. 14 on the CSX train tracks just west of the Tiedeman Road overpass in Brooklyn, Ohio.

 

“I’m asking everyone in the greater Cleveland area to pause for a moment to look at the images of this man’s face – if you recognize him, please call the local authorities,” Yost said. “Everyone counts, and I’m hopeful that with the public’s help, we can regain this young man’s identity.”

 

The man was 16 to 30 years old, 5 feet, 7 inches tall, and 120 pounds. He was wearing gray Adidas sweatpants, a blue t-shirt, a blue zip-up sweatshirt, and blue Crocs with the Cleveland Guardians logo. The man had blue or hazel eyes, long brown hair, and a mustache and beard. He had no visible scars, tattoos or piercings.

 

At the request of the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s office and the Brooklyn Police Department, the AG’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation created post-mortem images of the man, which are being released to the public in hopes that someone recognizes him.

 

BCI also is issuing a public bulletin about the case today.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office at (216) 721-5610, extension 1.

Patrol Releases Christmas Holiday Report

COLUMBUS – According to provisional statistics, nine people were killed in eight fatal crashes on Ohio roadways this Christmas holiday weekend, resulting in the fewest deaths during a Christmas reporting period since 2018.

The four-day Christmas reporting period began Friday, December 22 at midnight and ran through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, December 25.

Of the nine people killed, five were not wearing a safety belt and impairment was a factor in two of the crashes.

During the reporting period, troopers arrested 213 people for operating a vehicle while impaired and 21 for illegal drugs.

Troopers also issued citations for 228 safety belt and 75 distracted driving violations. Additionally, troopers assisted 1,049 motorists on Ohio roadways.

In comparison, there were 12 people killed during the 2022 Christmas holiday, which ran from December 23 to 26.

The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity. A statistical analysis of the Patrol’s enforcement activity and crash data over the holiday is available here.

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Parental Notification by Social Media Operators Act Takes Effect in January

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is making the public aware of a new state law giving parents oversight of their children’s use of social media websites as well as online services and products aimed at children.

The Parental Notification by Social Media Operators Act, approved by the General Assembly in July, will take effect on Jan. 15, 2024.

“This law aims to give parents more control over their children creating new social media accounts,” Yost said. “So just like any other time, if you feel like you’ve been wronged by a company, we take those complaints and work to resolve any issues – this is no different.”

The Ohio Attorney General is charged with enforcement of this law, which applies to websites, services and products that are targeted to children or reasonably expected to be accessed by children.

Beginning Jan. 15, operators must obtain parental consent before establishing accounts for children under the age of 16. They also must present parents with a list of censoring or content moderation features.

When consent is granted, operators must then send written confirmation of the account to the parent or legal guardian. When consent is not given, operators must deny the child access to the platform.

In cases in which operators fail to provide notification or a parent wishes to terminate a child’s access, parents should contact the website operator who then has 30 days to terminate the child’s access. If parents are unsuccessful in the account being deleted, they are encouraged to file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at OhioProtects.org.

The new law does not require operators to notify parents about accounts created before Jan. 15, 2024.

OhioProtects.org features frequently asked questions regarding the law and offers additional resources for parents seeking information on the upcoming regulations.

Marion Troopers Investigating a Fatal Crash

Marion — Troopers from the Marion Post are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on December 25, 2023, at approximately 9:33 PM, on State Route 423 in Marion County.

 

The crash involved a 2005 Lexus ES, driven by Connor M. Martin, age 40, of Marion, Ohio. The preliminary investigation indicates Mr. Martin was traveling southbound on State Route 423 when his vehicle traveled left of the center-line and off the left side of the roadway. Once off road, the Lexus struck a road sign and a ditch. The Lexus continued and struck a tree and overturned onto its top.

During the crash, Mr. Martin was ejected from the Lexus.

Mr. Martin was pronounced deceased on scene by the Marion County Coroner. Mr. Martin was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Township Fire and EMS, and Kirby’s Towing.

The crash remains under investigation.

Perrysville Woman Killed in Pleasant Valley Road Crash

Richland County, Monroe Township – The Mansfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a one vehicle fatal crash. The fatal crash occurred on December 26, 2023, around 6:22 AM, on Pleasant Valley Road west of SR 603.

Bonnie J. Bogdan, age 73, of Perrysville, was driving a 2012 Honda Pilot west on Pleasant Valley Road. Ms. Bogdan traveled off the right side of the road and struck a culvert and ditch embankment. The vehicle traveled across a driveway access and struck a ditch before coming to final rest. Ms. Bogdan was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Mansfield Post was assisted by Mifflin and Monroe Township Fire, Richland County Coroner’s Office, and Terry’s Towing.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Salvation Army’s Ashland Kroc Center offers special Christmas Break discount for remainder of Ice-Skating Festival

ASHLAND, Ohio – If our recent snowy weather has got you in the mood to go ice skating, The Salvation Army’s Ashland Kroc Center has good news for you! In honor of winter break and the Christmas holiday, we’re offering a special discount for the remainder of their Ice-Skating Festival…

Now through Sat., December 30, ice skating on the synthetic rink is open to members of the Ashland Kroc Center for just $3 and non-members are just $6. And that includes skate rental!

This offer is good daily from 1 to 5 p.m., weather permitting and excluding holiday closures (Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

For more information, please follow Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook or @AshlandKroc on Instagram.

If you have any questions, feel free to call the Ashland Kroc Center at (419) 281-8001.

 

ASHLAND MAN CHARGED WITH DRUG AND WEAPON OFFENSES

 

On December 21, 2022, Ashland Police Division and Ashland County Sheriff’s Office detectives assigned to the METRICH Enforcement Unit executed a search warrant at 1248 County Road 1475, Ashland.

As a result of the search, suspected methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, prescription pills, drug paraphernalia, a firearm, and evidence indicative of drug trafficking were seized.

Trent A. Carey, 31, was arrested and incarcerated on charges of Aggravated Possession of Drugs and Having Weapons while Under Disability. The case has been forwarded to the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office for further review. Any suspect accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The METRICH Enforcement Unit would like to thank the community for providing tips that helped build this case. We encourage everyone to continue to report suspected drug activity. Those calls can be made to the METRICH Crime Tip Hotline at (419) 52-CRIME, or download the METRICH Enforcement Unit mobile app and navigate to the “Submit a Tip” link. The public can also contact the local METRICH Access Officer, Kody Hying, at (419) 289-3639 ext. 1039, or email him at hying.kody@ashland-ohio.com.

Charges read as follows:

COUNT ONE: AGGRAVATED POSSESSION OF DRUGS, 2925.11(A), 2925.11 F3.

In that on or about December 21, 2022, in Ashland County, Ohio, TRENT CAREY did knowingly obtain, possess, or use a controlled substance or a controlled substance analog and the drug involved in the violation is a compound, mixture, preparation, or substance included in Schedule I or Il, to wit: Methamphetamine, a Schedule Il drug and the amount of the drug involved equals or exceeds the bulk amount but is less than five times the bulk amount, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2925.11

2925.11 AGGRAVATED POSSESSION OF DRUGS, a felony of the third degree.

COUNT TWO: HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY, 2923.13 (B) F3.

In that on or about December 21, 2022, in Ashland County, Ohio, TRENT CAREY did knowingly acquire, have, carry, or use a firearm or dangerous ordnance, to wit: one (1) Glock 43X 9mm handgun with serial no. BYXN329, and TRENT CAREY was previously convicted of a felony offense of violence, to wit: Ashland County Common Pleas Court case no. 09-CRI-070, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.13(B), HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY, a felony of the third degree.

COUNT THREE: HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY, 2923.13(B) F3.

In that on or about December 21, 2022, in Ashland County, Ohio, TRENT CAREY did knowingly acquire, have, carry, or use a firearm or dangerous ordnance, to wit: one (1) Glock 43X 9mm handgun with serial no. BYXN329, and TRENT CAREY was previously convicted of a felony offense involving the illegal possession, use, sale, administration, distribution, or trafficking in any drug of abuse, to wit: Ashland County Common Pleas Court case no. 19-CRI028, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.13(B), HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY, a felony of the third degree.

Remembering Wayne Hawks: A Legendary Supporter of Hillsdale Softball

In Loving Memory of Wayne Hawks

Wayne Hawks, a beloved member of the Hillsdale community, who passed away on September 9, 2021. He will always be remembered as a dedicated and passionate supporter of Hillsdale sports, particularly softball. His unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and community left a lasting impact. This article serves as a tribute to Wayne’s remarkable contributions and his legacy that continues to inspire.

 

A Family’s Tribute

To honor Wayne’s memory, his family decided to have a bench made and placed it at the serene pond located at The Barn, a special place that held significance for Wayne. It stands as a testament to his love and support for Hillsdale sports, a place where his spirit can be felt by all who visit.

A Pillar of Support for Hillsdale Sports

Wayne’s dedication to Hillsdale sports, especially softball, was unmatched. Both of his younger daughters graduated Hillsdale, and they actively participated in the softball team. Wayne was their biggest fan, always cheering them on from the sidelines and capturing precious moments through his camera lens. His support didn’t stop there, as he also extended his encouragement to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their own athletic pursuits.

A Man of Faith and Service

Wayne was an active member of Wooster Grace, where he faithfully attended church services. He had a warm and welcoming spirit, often ensuring that everyone found a comfortable place to sit for the service. Wayne went above and beyond, arriving early to open the church doors for fellow worshippers. His commitment to serving others extended beyond the church walls and into the community he loved.

Embracing the Outdoors

An avid walker, Wayne loved taking leisurely laps around the scenic landscapes of Grace and Hillsdale track. But his favorite spot was at Smithville’s The Barn Rest, where he would indulge in a delicious Sunday lunch. Afterward, he would spend hours sitting by the pond, joyfully feeding the fish, geese, and ducks. This peaceful retreat allowed Wayne to connect with nature and find solace in its tranquil beauty.

A Friend to All

Wayne extended his support to other young athletes in his community, attending their soccer, baseball, volleyball, and basketball games. He formed genuine friendships and touched the lives of many with his friendly and approachable demeanor. The waitresses at The Barn knew him by name, along with the rest of the staff who admired his kind-hearted nature and infectious laughter.

Honoring Wayne’s Legacy

Hillsdale softball team and seniors hold a special place in Wayne’s heart. As a gesture of appreciation, Wayne would take them out to dinner at The Barn, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating cherished memories. To commemorate his legacy, Hillsdale softball organizes a memorial game each year, with the proceeds going towards a scholarship fund established in Wayne’s memory. This scholarship serves as a lasting tribute and supports young athletes who embody Wayne’s passion and love for the game.

In the wake of Wayne Hawks’ passing, we reflect on a life well-lived, filled with devotion, compassion, and unwavering support for Hillsdale sports, particularly softball. Wayne’s memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. As we remember this remarkable man, let us carry forward his legacy of kindness, loyalty, and a genuine love for community and sports. Wayne Hawks will forever be missed but never forgotten.

ASHLAND WEATHER