Joe Lyons

Fugitives of the Week February 12, 2024

The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Earl Whipple. Whipple is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Whipple, 49, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Whipple has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Shelby Ohio, and High Springs Florida.

 

 Earl Whipple

The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Treshawn Banks. Banks is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s office for weapons under disability. Banks, 22, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall. Banks has ties to the city of Mansfield and Cleveland.

 

Treshawn Banks

The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Brian Sorensen. Sorensen is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession if fentanyl. Sorensen, 35, is described as a white male with brown hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Sorensen has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Mt Vernon and Piketon.

 

Treshawn Banks

The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive David Greene. Greene is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a fail to verify address as a sex offender. Greene, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Greene has ties to the city of Mansfield and Galion.

 

David Greene

                            If you have any information in reference to Earl Whipple, Treshawn Banks, Brian Sorensen, or David Greene, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.

Meet Chad Enderby: From Law Enforcement to Leadership and Community Service

Meet Chad Enderby, a dedicated individual who has spent nearly 30 years serving in the Ohio State Highway Patrol. From his humble beginnings as a dispatcher to his impressive journey up the ranks, Chad has exemplified expertise, authority, and trust in his role as a law enforcement officer. Now, he aims to extend his service to the residents of Ashland County, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to make a difference in their community.

 

Chad Enderby

Chad Enderby’s Career Journey, Starting Out as a Dispatcher and Becoming a State Trooper

At just 19 years old in 1992, Chad Enderby embarked on his law enforcement career as a dispatcher at the Norwalk Post. He honed his skills in this role until he reached the eligible age to attend the Ohio State Patrol Academy. Graduating from the academy, Chad became a state trooper stationed at the Mansfield Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol.

Accomplishments and Special Assignments

During his time at the Mansfield Post, Chad received accolades for his bravery, earning the Superintendent’s Citation of Merit, the patrol’s second highest award. His dedication to physical fitness and excellence in field training led him to receive the patrol’s physical fitness and field training officer awards.

Chad’s exceptional performance didn’t go unnoticed, as he was selected as one of the exclusive nine K-9 handlers in the state. He served on the Highway Interdiction Team, working diligently to combat illegal activities on Ohio’s highways.

Rising in Rank and Taking on Leadership Roles

Recognizing Chad’s leadership potential, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2001. Throughout his career, he served at various patrol posts, including the Ashland Post, where he held the position of assistant to the post commander and shift supervisor. Chad’s abilities extended beyond the field, as he took on additional responsibilities as a driving instructor for new recruits, firearms range instructor, and technology-modernization instructor.

In 2006, Chad achieved the rank of Lieutenant and assumed the role of overseeing operations at the Wooster Post, which encompassed Wayne and Holmes Counties. He effectively managed a wide range of responsibilities, such as training, payroll, scheduling, resource allocation, criminal investigations, and facility management. Notably, Chad’s dedication to building relationships and fostering trust with other department leaders and the Amish community contributed to reduced crashes and improved buggy lighting.

Specialized Training and Accomplishments as a Staff Lieutenant

In 2017, Chad’s expertise led to his promotion to Staff Lieutenant, where he was assigned to the Cleveland District Headquarters. As the assistant district commander, he oversaw a significant district comprising of seven patrol posts and a team of over 240 troopers, sergeants, lieutenants, and civilian staff.

During his tenure, Chad received specialized training from the United States Secret Service, enabling him to assist with multiple Presidential visits, including providing security at the 2019 Presidential Debates held in Cleveland. This valuable experience further solidified his skills in maintaining public safety and coordinating complex operations.

A New Chapter: Transitioning to Leadership and Community Service

After dedicating nearly 30 years to law enforcement, Chad Enderby has embarked on a new chapter of his career. In the fall of 2021, he accepted the role of Director of Human Resources, Safety, and Facilities for the City of Ashland, under the leadership of Mayor Matt Miller. In this position, Chad plays an instrumental role in negotiating union contracts, improving policies and procedures, and enhancing the city’s overall well-being.

Chad’s Involvement in the Ashland County Community

Chad Enderby’s commitment to public service extends beyond his professional career. He actively contributes to the community, serving as the President of the Hillsdale High School Athletic Booster Club for three years and as a coach for his daughters’ softball teams. Additionally, Chad volunteers for the United Way and is a proud member of the Ashland Noon Lion’s Club. His involvement in countless other community events and service as a Special Deputy for the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office demonstrates his dedication to making Ashland County a better place.

Chad voiced his unwavering commitment, stating, “My top priority is to focus on increasing the patrols in our villages and townships, by reducing the overlap of services between state and county law enforcement agencies.” Recognizing the importance of ensuring safety within educational settings, Chad also emphasized his intention to amplify the focus on school safety and resource officers in each school. Collaborating closely with school administrators, his goal is to ensure that all personnel are well-trained and adequately prepared in the event of an emergency. Chad Enderby’s dedication to serving Ashland County shines through, promising a safer and more secure community for all.

Chad Enderby’s journey from a young dispatcher to a respected law enforcement officer, leader, and community advocate showcases his commitment to serving others. With an impressive career in the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Chad brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a passion for public service to his new role as the Director of Human Resources, Safety, and Facilities for the City of Ashland. His dedication to both his professional and community roles exemplifies the values needed for effective leadership and positive impact in Ashland County.

Web-Site

Chad Enderby for Sheriff

Facebook Page

Chad Enderby for Sheriff

Endorsed by:

   

I am endorsing Chad Enderby for the Sheriff of Ashland County, Ohio. I began my 25-year career in law enforcement at the Ashland County Sherriff’s Office when I was sworn in as a Special Deputy in 1996. I continued to work alongside the ACSO deputies throughout my career as a Patrolman/Detective for the Ashland Police Department.

Throughout this time, I knew Chad Enderby both as a knowledgeable trooper/K-9 handler, and was aware of his leadership skills and rank. I am confident that Chad Enderby has the experience and skills to operate the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office with a high standard of professionalism and integrity.

It’s also reassuring to know that Chad Enderby will continue the partnership with METRICH Drug Task Force in order to fight the dangerous drug epidemic by keeping drug traffickers out of Ashland County, and maintaining the safety of its residents.

Thank you, Chad Enderby, for bringing 30 years of law enforcement experience to Ashland County, and for your willingness to continue to protect and serve as the next Sheriff of Ashland County.

Brian Evans

Scott Lili Ramirez Harris

John R. Oleyar

We may no longer be in Ashland, but to all of our friends who are . . . I want to give the highest endorsement for Chad Enderby for Sheriff. I had the privilege to get to know Chad as a co-worker and as a friend. After getting to know him, I truly believe that he is the right choice, and would make the best of decisions for Ashland County. His character and leadership skills are unmatched. He is definetly a man of integrity. I have personally witnessed him on multiple occassions going above and beyond to do the right thing, and to stay above board. I believe the future is bright with Chad Enderby as sheriff!

John R. Oleyar

Endorsement for Chad Enderby, for Ashland County Sheriff.

I became acquainted with Chad a few years ago and was immediately impressed with his engagement in and enthusiasm for our community.

I am willing to express my support for Chad’s candidacy for sheriff of Ashland County without reservation because he is a proven leader, he is qualified for the position, he possesses empathy, good judgement and a high degree of integrity.

Finally, Chad Enderby is passionate about the prospects of serving as Ashland County Sheriff. I encourage you to consider supporting him as well.

Ralph Tomassi

Chief Development Officer/Senior Administrator

Hospice of North Central Ohio

Murder Charge Filed in 2017 Disappearance of Huron County Mother Amanda Dean

(NORWALK, Ohio) — A Huron County man has been indicted on felony charges – including murder – in connection with the disappearance six years ago of his girlfriend, Amanda Dean, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced today.

Frederick Reer, 40, of Collins, faces charges of murder, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence. Agents with the attorney general’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested Reer on Friday following his indictment and transported him to the Huron County jail, where he remains in custody. An arraignment hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Feb. 12 in Huron County Common Pleas Court.

Dean, a 36-year-old mother of four, was last seen on July 11, 2017, in Collins, a town just outside of Norwalk.

“So many memories won’t include Amanda, as her killer robbed these children of a life with their mother,” Yost said. “Her family deserves justice.”

The indictment, handed down by a Huron County grand jury, stems from an investigation led by BCI at the request of the Huron County Sheriff’s Office. The Huron County Common Pleas Court has appointed the Attorney General’s Office as special assistant to the Huron County prosecutor in the case.

Indictments are criminal allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.

“Merrily We Roll Along” coming to AU’s Hugo Young Theatre Feb. 15-18

ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Department of Theatre’s next production will be “Merrily We Roll Along,” a Stephen Sondheim and George Furth musical to be held Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 15-18, at the Hugo Young Theatre. The Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s matinee is at 2 p.m.

“Merrily We Roll Along” features Sondheim’s music and lyrics and Furth’s book, which are based on the 1934 original play of the same name by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart. This production will be directed by Teresa Durbin-Ames, associate professor of theatre at AU, with Deb Logan as the music director and Katie Gibson in charge of choreography.

“Merrily We Roll Along” is a captivating and emotional journey through time, exploring the complexities of friendship, ambition, dreams and the choices we make in life, according to Durbin-Ames. The story follows Franklin Shepard, played by Tobin Grendzynski, and his friends Charley Kringas, played by Anthony Marchetta, and Mary Flynn, played by Emilee Fletcher. Shepard is a composer of Broadway musicals, Kringas a playwright and Flynn a writer, and their personal and professional aspirations test the bonds of friendship.

Also included in the talented cast are Leanna Uselton as Gussie Carnegie, Ellie Nickoli as Beth Spencer and Keever Whitehead as Joe Josephson. The ensemble includes Lily Dowler, Elizabeth Harris, Anthony McFee, Gabe Noble, Bolaji Ogunniran and Ray Yeh, while the cast also consists of community members Tom Cline, Parker Kipp and Alex Ramsey.

In addition to Logan and Gibson, the production staff is composed of Justin Miller, set and projection designer; Justin Bilewicz ’09, costume designer; Seth Morrison ’18, lighting designer and technical director; and Richard Ingraham, sound designer. The student crew includes Hermelinda (Mela) Abarca, Belle Ayala, Jesse Baker, Eiley McCardle, Brooke McNeil, props master Marisa Hazlett and stage manager Mikehlah Carr.

Alumni and friends of AU Theatre are invited to an open house and dinner before the Saturday performance. The open house in the Center for the Arts starts at 4 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner in Redwood Hall at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased from the AU Campus Store in person or online at ashland.edu/performing-arts-tickets. They will not be available for purchase at the door. Tickets are $2 for AU students, $5 for non-AU students and $10 for adults, faculty/staff and senior citizens, while tickets for the dinner are $15. This production is licensed by Music Theatre International.

TourismOhio Launches New Feature For 2024 Solar Eclipse Trip Planning

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – With two months until the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, TourismOhio today launched an all-new Total Solar Eclipse map to make planning for the event in Ohio even easier.

“We are excited to welcome eclipse enthusiasts to our great state,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “In Ohio, there’s far more to see and do beyond watching the solar eclipse. There are countless activities and destinations to explore. We encourage travelers to come early and state late for a full Heart of it All experience.”

The April 8 event will plunge parts of Ohio into total darkness for nearly 5 minutes as the moon passes between the sun and Earth. Several cities, including Dayton, Lima, Toledo, Findlay, Cleveland, and Akron, are in the path of totality. In total, 55 Ohio counties will experience at least a partial eclipse.

“From state agencies to our local partners, there are many Ohioans working together to ensure that visitors and residents have a safe an enjoyable experience in the Heart of it All,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development, which over sees the TourismOhio office. “With all there is to experience in Ohio, you can create an unforgettable weekend filled with memories your family will be talking about for years to come.”

The new interactive Total Solar Eclipse Map on Ohio.org helps visitors plan their trip to Ohio with places to watch the eclipse and an interactive list of viewing parties, festivals, and other events happening across the state.

“We’re so excited for the eclipse and to welcome visitors to Perrysburg and Wood County,” said Christine Best, Executive Director of Visit Perrysburg. “TourismOhio has provided us a great opportunity to bring awareness to our exciting eclipse events, like the Total Eclipse of the Burg, as well as the great places to check out around Perrysburg to eat and shop.”

The Total Solar Eclipse landing page also includes other ideas to create an out-of-this-world itinerary perfect for a long weekend—travelers can also go ‘to the moon and back’ along the Ohio Lunar Road Trip, or gaze up at the stars with the best spots in the state, and explore Ohio’s top-rated science museums with their families.

Visitors are encouraged to share their Ohio total solar eclipse memories and adventures on social media with #OhioTheHeartofitAll and #Eclipse2024.

 

Eclipse viewing at National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton

Meet Kurt Schneider: Ashland County’s 13-Year Sheriff’s Deputy Candidate for Sheriff

In Ashland County, there is a candidate for sheriff who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe. Kurt Schneider, a 13-year Ashland Sheriff’s Deputy, is running for Sheriff with the goal of improving response times for emergency calls and combating the growing problem of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. With a background in law enforcement and public safety, Schneider is well-equipped to take on the challenges of the role and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents.

 

A Lifetime of Public Service

Kurt Schneider’s passion for public service started at a young age. Coming from a family of public servants, with grandparents working in the police and fire departments and parents in public safety and education, Schneider was inspired to follow in their footsteps. In high school, he became a volunteer firefighter and began pursuing his interest in investigating arson cases.

After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with degrees in Fire Science Engineering and Criminal Justice Technology – Law Enforcement, Schneider embarked on a career in law enforcement. He started as a police officer and gained experience in various areas of law enforcement and investigation, including being a beat cop, fire investigator, paramedic, sheriff’s deputy, and bomb technician. His 13 years in the Sheriff’s office allowed him to work in different departments, from corrections to road patrol and administration to specialized units like the K-9 and bomb unit.

Commitment to Protecting Ashland County Families

As a local business owner and a resident of Ashland County, Kurt Schneider is deeply invested in the safety and well-being of the community. He understands the unique challenges that the county faces and is committed to tackling them head-on. Schneider emphasizes the importance of reducing response times for emergency calls, citing a tragic case in 2016 where a woman had to whisper her life-threatening situation to multiple people during a 911 call while her abductor slept nearby. He is determined to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and that Ashland County residents can rely on swift and effective emergency services.

Another top priority for Schneider is combating the scourge of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. He firmly believes that being a pro-life sheriff means actively fighting against the drug epidemic on our streets and taking a proactive approach to keeping schools safe. Schneider promises to use every available resource to address these pressing issues and protect the lives of Ashland County residents.

Kurt Schneider’s extensive experience in law enforcement and public safety, combined with his dedication to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe, make him an ideal candidate for the position of Sheriff in Ashland County. With his background as a third-generation public servant and his commitment to reducing response times for emergency calls and combating human trafficking and drug abuse, Schneider is well-positioned to lead the Sheriff’s office and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents. As the election approaches, residents have the opportunity to support a candidate who brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a deep sense of commitment to their community.

Come and meet Kurt Schneider, candidate for Ashland County Sheriff! Kurt is committed to upholding the Constitution and protecting Ashland county families.

This free event will take place at The Greens Bistro on Monday February 19th between 4:30 PM and 6:30PM. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served for your enjoyment!

Web-Site

KURT SCHNEIDER FOR SHERIFF

Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/KurtSchneiderForSheriff

 

                                                                                                         Endorsed by:

 

Governor DeWine Announces Availability of Funding for Sexual Assault Kit Testing

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson today announced the availability of $1 million in funding to support the work of law enforcement and prosecutors to investigate and prosecute crimes of sexual assault in Ohio.

Funds awarded through the new Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program can be used toward drug-facilitated sexual assault toxicology testing, sexual assault kit (SAK) testing, expert testimony, SAK storage upgrades, transportation/shipping costs, sexual assault investigations training, specialized DNA analysis, and other sexual assault investigation costs.

“Those who’ve committed sexual assault have no place in our communities,” said Governor DeWine. “The goal of this program is to help ensure that local law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to get offenders into custody as soon as possible.”

The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is administering the Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program. Agencies can submit reimbursement for sexual assault investigations connected to incidents that occurred on or after July 1, 2023.

APPLICATION: Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program

Grant applications for the current fiscal year will be available through mid-June with additional funding slated to be released July 1, 2024. Individual grant amounts will depend on the number of qualifying entities that apply. Funding for the program was awarded by the Ohio General Assembly in the operating budget.

During his time as Ohio’s attorney general, Governor DeWine led a special initiative to test evidence from thousands of previously untested rape kits submitted by local law enforcement agencies in Ohio. Between 2011 and 2018, forensic scientists at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation analyzed nearly 14,000 old rape kits submitted by local law enforcement, resulting in the upload of more than 8,600 DNA profiles into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). At the time that testing was completed in 2018, those profiles had led to more than 5,000 DNA matches.

“This new grant program is another example of Governor DeWine’s commitment to helping law enforcement get dangerous criminals off the streets,” said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson. “The work of investigators is critical toward stopping future attacks and getting justice for survivors.”

By statute, OCJS is the lead justice planning and assistance office for the state, administering millions of dollars in state and federal criminal justice funding every year. OCJS also evaluates programs and develops technology, training, and products for criminal justice professionals and communities.

“What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle 2/07/2024

Jason VanSickle

Thank you to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle todays topics are:

Sports
Winterfest
Ladies Night
Downtown Revitalization
Mohican Community Theatre Presents
“Disenchanted” 

Showtimes:

  • Friday, February 9th at 7:00
  • Saturday, February 10th at 7:00
  • Sunday, February 11th at 2:00
  • Friday, February 16th at 7:00
  • Saturday, February 17th at 7:00
  • Sunday, February 18th at 2:00 

Sponsored by Bill Harris Dealerships 

I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring the monthly updates  “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle

This exciting endeavor will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information. 

https://www.facebook.com/billharrischevy
https://www.facebook.com/BillHarrisCDJR
https://www.facebook.com/BillHarrisFord

Miller, Ohio House Approve $350 Million Strategic Community Investment Fund

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland). 

This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, with almost $1.3 million which will directly serve Ashland and Medina Counties. 

“I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District,” said Miller. “These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come.” 

Miller championed several provisions that will positively impact Ashland and Medina Counties: 

  • $1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and build a new Mozelle Hall; and           
  • $200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, creating an educational resource for the community;
  • $36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center;
  • $30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, for residents to gather together;
  • $25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village. 

In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 also included additional statewide capital investments of:

  • $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
  • $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
  • $397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
  • $250 million for local jail construction across Ohio. 

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward. 

This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects. 

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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.

ASHLAND WEATHER