The Ashland University Jazz Orchestra will make its 2024-25 debut on Tuesday, Oct. 22, with a “Jazz at the Nest” performance. The 20-member ensemble will play a free concert at the Eagle’s Nest inside the Hawkins-Conard Student Center, starting at 7:30 p.m.
Directed by Scott Garlock, professor of music, the award-winning AUJO will present a world premiere, commissioned by AUJO/Knox College Jazz Ensemble in memory of Jorge Prats. The beloved Prats was a longtime professor and soccer coach at Knox who organized numerous overseas trips and performances in Spain that benefitted students at both Ashland and Knox, including as recently as this past spring.
In addition to the world premiere, Garlock said the performance will include “works from the Count Basie library, some original music by local composers and several popular tunes arranged for big band.”
The AUJO has been providing the AU campus and greater Ashland community with diverse jazz programming and internationally recognized jazz artists for more than 50 years. The ensemble consists of various saxophone, trombone, trumpet and rhythm instruments played by both music and non-music majors.
The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) continues its commitment to providing outdoor recreation opportunities through its vast network of trails, emphasizing their critical role in promoting community well-being, conservation, and environmental education.
The MWCD trail system offers a wide variety of hiking, biking, and equestrian paths that meander through the scenic landscapes of the Muskingum River Watershed. These trails provide opportunities for individuals and families to connect with nature, stay active, and explore Ohio’s rich natural heritage.
MWCD is expanding and improving its trail network to meet the growing demand for outdoor recreational opportunities. As part of this effort, MWCD is seeking community input to develop a Master Trail Plan that will guide the enhancement and expansion of the trail system in the years ahead.
“We believe that trails are essential to the health and vitality of our communities,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD Chief of Recreation. “They offer more than just outdoor fun—they connect people to nature, improve our quality of life, and foster a greater appreciation for conservation.”
For more information about MWCD’s trails or to participate in the ongoing survey to shape future trail development, visit www.mwcd.org/trail-survey.
Your participation will help guide the MWCD’s efforts in planning and expanding the trail network in the coming years. Together, we can ensure that our trails continue to be a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts.
132 Arrested as Operation END-OHHT
Targets Those Seeking to Buy Sex in Ohio
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – A statewide human-trafficking operation conducted last week by more than 100 law enforcement agencies ended in the arrest of 132 people who sought to buy sex – including some exchanges involving minors, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced today.
“We have to attack this scourge by curbing the demand,” Yost said. “This operation aimed to hold accountable those who exploit survivors or fuel human trafficking by agreeing to pay for sex.”
Led by AG Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC), Operation END-OHHT took place from Oct. 6 through Oct. 12 in 19 counties, including major activities in Akron, Columbus, Cleveland, Marietta, Portsmouth, Toledo and the Mahoning Valley area.
The sweeping collaborative effort, named after Ohio’s new human trafficking hotline (844-END-OHHT), was led by OOCIC’s eight human trafficking and major crime task forces, with a dozen other local law enforcement agencies also participating.
Those arrested included 110 “johns,” who face charges of engaging in prostitution or solicitation, as well as 22 individuals charged with felonies for seeking commercial sex with a minor and/or possessing narcotics.
The suspects have diverse backgrounds – from laborers and government employees to students and business owners – and range in age from 21 to 71.
Throughout the operation, authorities also identified 74 human-trafficking survivors, referring them to health-care and social-service organizations.
In addition, the OOCIC task forces furthered several long-term investigations by raiding nine locations that had been linked to human trafficking, including several massage parlors and a motel. They seized more $20,000 and other related evidence.
“Operation END-OHHT reinforced the consequences for those who think that engaging in prostitution is permissible,” Yost said. “Our message is simple: Don’t buy sex in Ohio!”
AG Yost: “The difference is the difference between 2 and 3.”
Operation Highlights
The Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force:
Advanced two long-term investigations in arresting Terrance Cummings, 29, of Columbus on federal charges of sexual exploitation of a minor; possession, distribution and receipt of child pornography; coercion and enticement of a minor; and obstruction of justice. Anthony Simms, 56, was federally indicted on charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and sex trafficking of a minor.
Along with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Edson David Aguilera Ramos, a citizen of Honduras with no legal U.S. status, after he responded to an online advertisement offering sex with a female he believed to be 15. Ramos was charged with attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.
The Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force:
Charged Raymond Masters, 55, of Chester, West Virginia, with engaging in prostitution and possession of criminal tools. Masters is a registered sex offender.
The Montgomery County Human Trafficking Task Force:
Charged Charles Arnold, 55, of Dayton, and Jeffrey Startzman, 68, of Brookville, with solicitation. Arnold is a chief fire inspector for the Ohio Department of Commerce; Startzman is a former prosecutor and magistrate and a current board member for Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services.
Arrested Alfonso Rodriguez, 45, of the Dominican Republic; Dennis Armando Doban, 25, of Honduras; and Kelvin Nimako, 23, of Ghana. Each is charged with importuning.
Charged two Dayton men – Ryan Pace, 58, and John Dady, 53 – with importuning and possession of criminal tools.
The Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force:
Executed search warrants in Lake County at three Painesville massage parlors where human trafficking is suspected: Tang Yun Spa, at 1935 Mentor Ave.; QQ Spa, 2000 Mentor Ave. and Sunrise Spa, 1400 Mentor Ave. Six potential survivors were interviewed and offered services; two individuals remain under investigation and could face charges of engaging in prostitution and possessing criminal tools. Authorities seized $19,399.
Executed a search warrant in East Cleveland at McCall’s Motel, where human trafficking is suspected. Officers seized $1,975, three handguns and narcotics.
The Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Charged John Hughes, 35, with two felony counts of pandering for seeking to buy sex from a minor. Hughes works for the Ohio Treasurer’s Office and referees high-school athletics.
Charged five men with pandering, including Columbus-area residents Quin Liston, 22; John Dudash, 77; Christopher Miller 54; and Robert Fijol, 45; and Suhib Al Zenati, 27, of Jordan. Columbus resident Colton Smith, 35, was charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.
The Southeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force charged Mark Hart, 33, of Marietta with engaging in prostitution and felony drug trafficking.
The Southern Ohio Major Crimes Task Force:
Arrested Jarrius Dixon, 26 of Ashland, Kentucky, after he responded to an ad from a “mother” offering sex with her and her 15-year-old daughter. During the arrest, Dixon was found to be in possession of 19.82 grams of suspected methamphetamine that was pre-packaged for sale, digital scales and more than $1,000. Dixon was charged with importuning, drug trafficking, drug possession and engaging in prostitution.
Arrested Michael Waugh, 63, of Waverly, and Keith Anderson, 40, of McDermott, on charges of importuning. Anderson was also charged with improper handling of a firearm.
The Toledo Police Department charged Dontae Evens, 29, of Toledo with engaging in prostitution. The man, who possessed narcotics, also faces felony charges of trafficking in cocaine and fentanyl.
“Johns” charged with engaging in prostitution or solicitation
Statements from inside the operation
Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck: “Human trafficking has no place in our community. This statewide effort is a crucial step in protecting victims and holding offenders accountable. We are dedicated to preventing this crime, rescuing victims, and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.”
Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant: “The Columbus Division of Police is committed to combating human trafficking, prostitution and crimes that exploit children. We recognize the critical impact that these crimes have on our communities and the lives of individuals affected by them. This is not just a local issue; it is a pressing reality that affects people in every corner of our state. The commitment that our Human Trafficking Task Force and PACT officers display every day is crucial in protecting victims and bringing justice to those who exploit them. We will continue to devote resources and support efforts to prevent these crimes.”
Delaware County Sheriff Jeffrey Balzer: “The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office continues to support the role of the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force in reducing the exploitation of vulnerable members of our community and is proud to have participated in Operation END-OHHT.”
Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin: “Human trafficking is a serious issue nationwide, and, unfortunately, Franklin County is not exempt from its impact. This is why we once again partnered with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement agencies to combat this illegal activity. Our collaboration helps strengthen our investigations and convictions. This also allows us a chance to offer much-needed support to the victims caught in this heinous crime.”
Homeland Security Investigations – Detroit Special Agent-in-Charge Angie M. Salazar: “These proactive operations to prevent human trafficking, prosecute the perpetrators, and partner with NGOs to support victims are the pillars to successfully combating human trafficking in our communities. Our partnerships with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, local law enforcement, NGOs, and the human trafficking task forces in Dayton, Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati are an exemplary best practice on how to dismantle human trafficking criminal organizations and rescue survivors.”
Grove City Police Chief Eric Scott: “The Grove City Division of Police is committed to investigating and proactively addressing all criminal activity, especially crimes against persons. Human trafficking and prostitution affect a community as a whole but specifically target potentially vulnerable victims. Grove City’s participation in this operation sends the message that Grove City will not tolerate these crimes.”
Hillard Police Chief Michael Woods: “We want to drive this illegal activity out of central Ohio and Hilliard, and it is individuals who solicit prostitution online who are creating the demand. We’re hopeful this operation will not only serve as a deterrent for human trafficking but also will provide assistance to human trafficking victims so they can get connected to advocates and resources. This operation has been another example of the successful partnership between the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and other law enforcement agencies in central Ohio, including the Dublin Police Department.”
Madison County Sheriff John Swaney: “The Madison County Sheriff’s Office fully supports the mission of the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force in its effort to rid central Ohio of crimes such as prostitution and sex trafficking. Knowing the adverse effects that these crimes have on a community, my office has teamed with the task force and other jurisdictions in central Ohio to participate in a statewide initiative to target and arrest anyone involved in these types of crimes. It is my feeling that contributing to this initiative is another way we can better serve the residents of Madison County.”
New Albany Police Lt. Kristopher Daniels: “The New Albany Police Department continues to collaborate with the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to battle human exploitation at every level. We remain steadfast in investigating and prosecuting those involved with human trafficking while providing aid and assistance to the victims of this horrendous crime.”
Bureau of Criminal Investigation Superintendent Bruce Pijanowski: “BCI’s core mission is to assist local law enforcement, and our involvement in Operation END-OHHT is no exception. The special agents and criminal intelligence agents assigned to OOCIC human trafficking task forces work diligently to target human traffickers and arrest those seeking to exploit children.”
Operation participants
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office offers a special thanks to the 100-plus law enforcement agencies and non-government organizations that joined AG Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission in carrying out Operation END-OHHT.
The lead agency for each OOCIC task force is listed first:
Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force: Columbus Division of Police, Homeland Security Investigations, BCI, FBI, Marysville Police Department, Ohio State University Police, Salvation Army, Southeast Healthcare, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office
H.E.A.L. Human Trafficking Task Force: Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Lorain County Sheriff’s Office
Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force: Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, BCI, Ohio Investigative Unit, Youngstown Police, East Palestine Police Department, Austintown Township Police Department, Salem Police Department, Warren Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office, Compass Rape Crisis and Counseling Center, Beaver Township Police Department
Montgomery County Human Trafficking Task Force: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Butler Township Police Department, Miami Township Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Oakwood Police Department
Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force: Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office, Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, East Cleveland Police Department, MetroHealth Police Department, Cleveland Police Department, Warrensville Heights Police Department, North Olmsted Police Department, Westlake Police Department, Ohio Investigative Unit, Homeland Security Investigations, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, Harriett Tubman Movement, Middleburg Heights Police Department, Wiloughby Police Department, Lake County Prosecutor’s Office, Newburgh Heights Police Department, Ashtabula Police Department, Canopy Child Advocacy Center, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, Conneaut Police Department, Solon Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Investigations, Homesafe Inc., Ohio Medical Board
Southeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force: Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Marietta Police Department, Belpre Police Department, Ohio Investigative Unit, Athens Police Department, Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Noble County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Athens County Sheriff’s Office, Meigs County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Prosecutor’s Office, Athens County Prosecutor’s Office, Noble County Prosecutor’s Office, Rescue and Restore Coalition
Southern Ohio Organized and Major Crimes Task Force: Scioto County Sheriff’s Office, Portsmouth Police Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Office, Pike County Prosecutor’s Office, New Boston Police Department, Scioto County Prosecutor’s Office
Summit Regional Human Trafficking Task Force: Summit County Sheriff’s Office, Portage County Sheriff’s Office, Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Medina County Prosecutor’s Office, Akron Police Department, Hope and Healing, Cleveland Clinic, Springfield Township. Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Summit County Prosecutor’s Office, North Canton Police Department, Canton Police Department, Richfield Township Police Department, Twinsburg Police Department
Also participating in the operation were the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus Division of Police PACT, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio ICAC, Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, New Albany Police Department, Hillard Police Department, Grove City Police Department, Dublin Police Department, Toledo Police Department, Ravenna Police Department
Village of Republic – The Norwalk Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on October 11, 2024, at 2:05 p.m. on State Route 19 at State Route 18 in the Village of Republic, Huron County.
William Owsley, age 71, of Fremont, Ohio, was traveling southbound on State Route 19 on a 2016 Harley Davidson motorcycle. Diane Fisher, age 66, also of Fremont, Ohio, was traveling southbound on State Route 19 in front of Mr. Owsley in a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado and was stopped at the stop sign for State Route 18. Mr. Owsley struck Ms. Fisher from behind.
Mr. Owsley, who was not wearing a helmet, was transported from the scene to ProMedica Toledo Hospital by Life Flight. He succumb ed to his injuries at 3:45 p.m. on October 13, 2024. Ms. Fisher, who was wearing her seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital by Seneca County EMS. Wilc ox Garage responded to the scene and towed both vehicles.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Republic Fire Department, the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, Republic Police, Seneca County EMS, Life Flight, and Wilcox Garage.
At this time, it is unknown whether alcohol or drugs were factors , and the crash remains under investigation.
Ripley Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol Norwalk Post is investigating a one vehicle fatal traffic crash that occurred on October 6, 2024, at approximately 1:18 PM, on US 224 near Old State Road in Huron County.
Richard V. Hairston, of Shiloh, OH was driving a 2009 Chevrolet HHR east on US 224 when he ran off road left, struck a ditch and then a tree. Mr. Hairston was not wearing his seat belt, was ejected from the vehicle and he sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash.
It is unknown if alcohol and/ or drugs were a factor in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted by North Central EMS, Greenwich Fire Department, Life Flight and Wilcox Garage and the Huron County Coroner.
TOLEDO, Ohio – Amanda Hovanec, 37, of Wapakoneta, Ohio, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by U.S. District Judge James R. Knepp, II, after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including distributing a controlled substance that resulted in the death of her husband. Amanda Hovanec was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,108,559.36.
According to court documents, Hovanec and her husband, Timothy, were married and had three children. They moved several times for his job with the U.S. Department of State, which included an assignment in South Africa around 2018. While there, Hovanec developed a relationship with a South African citizen named Anthony Theodorou. Hovanec initiated divorce proceedings against her husband in 2020 after returning to the United States. In December 2021, she began to deny her husband visitation with their children despite a court order to permit it. After her husband filed several contempt motions against Hovanec for denying visitation, a judge ordered that the children be given visitation with their father in April 2022, and further ordered that the husband become the residential parent and legal custodian of their children for two months that summer, beginning in May.
The children went with their father for an April weekend visitation, as ordered, after which their father returned them to Hovanec’s Wapakoneta residence. Later, a missing persons investigation was opened when the husband failed to check out of an area hotel where he had been staying.
During the investigation, law enforcement officials discovered the husband’s abandoned car in Dayton, Ohio. It had been equipped with a dash camera. Review of the camera’s video showed that the husband had returned the children to Hovanec’s residence around 7 p.m. on April 24, 2022. Video footage showed Hovanec and her mother, Anita Green, waiting outside the residence next to the garage. Hovanec was then seen walking toward the driver’s side of the vehicle and heard telling the children, “I have a surprise for you inside.” The children entered the residence, followed by Green. Seconds later, the victim was heard saying, “What the heck are you doing? Did you just assault me?” and then, “Get away from me . . . Get off of me.” The victim and Hovanec came into the camera’s view, at which time video footage captured her pulling on her husband’s shirt as he tried to use his cellphone. She wrestled with him and eventually knocked the phone out of his hand. She then pulled on his back to bring him to the ground, holding him around the neck until his body went limp and he became unresponsive, lying on the driveway. Hovanec stood up, picked up her husband’s cellphone, removed his smart watch, and turned off his vehicle’s engine, at which point the dash camera stopped recording.
After first attempting to cover up her crimes, Hovanec later confessed to investigators that she injected her husband in the shoulder with “poison” that she understood would kill him within minutes. She also admitted to disposing of his car in Dayton, and burying his body in a wooded area not far from her home. Theodorou was in Ohio at the time of the incident. He not only obtained the substance used to kill the victim, but also helped Hovanec bury her husband’s body. Green, who both Hovanec and Theodorou confirmed knew about the plan to murder the victim in advance, was charged as an accessory after the fact. She agreed to drive them and the victim’s body to the grave site, which was dug in advance of the murder.
The investigation determined that the victim was injected with M-99, also known as Etorphine, a Schedule I controlled substance approximately 1000 times more potent than morphine. It is used in veterinary medicine for zoo and wildlife anesthesia.
According to court records, Hovanec considered killing her husband for at least a year before the murder and had considered alternate means to do so, including hiring a hitman, before settling on injecting him with M-99.
“Hovanec’s violent and intentional actions were cold-blooded, calculated, and cruel. Her extreme malevolence toward her husband and complete disregard for how his murder would affect their innocent children is incomprehensible and unforgiveable,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “We know that no amount of time served can bring back a family’s loved one. But our hope is that the victim’s family may find some sense of closure as they painstakingly work to heal from this unimaginable and horrific tragedy.”
Theodorou was sentenced to 18 years in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to import, importation and distribution of a controlled substance that resulted in death. He was also ordered to pay $2,108,559.36 in restitution, of which a part will be paid jointly and severally with Hovanec and Green. Anita Green was sentenced to 10 years in prison and two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to being an accessory to the crimes committed by Amanda Hovanec and Anthony Theodorou.
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, Lima Resident Agency, the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), and the Lucas County Coroner’s Office.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alissa Sterling and Michelle Baeppler for the Northern District of Ohio.
TOLEDO, Ohio – Sir Maejor Page, 35, of Toledo, has been sentenced to 42 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Helmick after a jury convicted him of wire fraud and money laundering for defrauding donors of more than $450,000 that they collectively gave to his nonprofit “Black Lives Matter of Greater Atlanta” (BLM of Greater Atlanta) based on Page’s false representations. He was also ordered to pay a $400 special assessment fee.
Page continued to collect donations to his purported social justice charity through the organization’s Facebook page even after its tax-exempt status was revoked for failure to submit IRS Form 990 for three consecutive years. He regularly posted content to Facebook about social and racial issues to give his nonprofit the appearance of legitimacy, despite no longer being tax-exempt. He also used Facebook to message privately with users, and he falsely represented that their donations would be used to “fight for George Floyd” and the “movement.” As a result, approximately 18,000 people donated to the BLM of Greater Atlanta charity through its Facebook account, which Page administered.
Page used the donations to BLM for his own personal benefit. He purchased entertainment, hotel rooms, clothing, firearms, and a property that he intended to use as his personal residence. He attempted to conceal the purchase of the property by using the name “Hi Frequency Ohio” and asked the seller to sign a nondisclosure agreement that would have prevented the seller from listing Page as the actual buyer.
“Mr. Page took advantage of a cause meant to fight social injustices, using it instead to line his own pockets with thousands of dollars of donations,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “People donate their hard-earned money to support causes they believe in, and when a fraudster like Page comes along and tries to get away with a fake charity scheme, it hurts legitimate nonprofit organizations that rely on the generosity of others to advance their missions and make positive change in the world. This Office will hold accountable those who try to profit by scamming unsuspecting people out of their money like Page did here.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gene Crawford and Rob Melching.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – The Ohio Department of Development today announced $6 million in grant awards to help three nonprofit organizations support more than 500 individuals and families experiencing homelessness in their communities.
Funding comes from the HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Non-Congregate Shelter program, which provides a safe and private living environment for people experiencing homelessness by supporting the creation and expansion of non-congregate shelters across Ohio.
“This is an important step in addressing homelessness across Ohio,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “By supporting the creation of these non-congregate shelters, we’re providing more than just beds. We’re offering a safe, private, and supportive environment where Ohioans can find stability and begin their journey to permanent housing. We must continue to invest in solutions like this to ensure all Ohioans have the opportunity to thrive.”
These new units will provide much-needed support for individuals and families who are looking for an alternative to traditional shelter settings. Non-congregate shelters offer separate sleeping spaces and bathroom facilities, ensuring increased privacy for residents.
The funding will be distributed to the following nonprofit agencies:
The Community Shelter Board (Franklin County) will receive $2 million to acquire a 42-unit, 56-bed facility serving single men, women, and youth under the age of 25. The program expects to serve 180 families and 200 individuals per year during the life of the project.
Emerald Development and Economic Network (EDEN) (Cuyahoga County) will receive $2 million to rehabilitate a 62-unit facility, with 14 non-congregate units and 14 beds serving single women and youth. The program expects to serve 50 families and 220 individuals per year during the life of the project.
Hocking Athens Perry Community Action Partnership (HAPCAP) will receive $2 million to create a 20-unit, 38-bed facility serving single adults and households with children in Meigs, Gallia, Vinton, Jackson, Hocking, Athens, and Perry counties. The program expects to serve 80 families and 152 individuals per year during the life of the project.
In addition to creating safe, temporary shelter options, all three grantees will leverage a total of approximately $63.3 million over the next 10 years through additional funding sources.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.
Perkins Township- The Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a serious six vehicle injury crash, that occurred on September 27, 2024 at approximately 08:12 P.M. on Perkins Avenue near the intersection of Hayes Avenue in the Township of Perkins, Erie County.
Tiffany Knight, 38, from Sandusky, Ohio, was driving a 2015 Cadillac ATS westbound when she struck the left rear of a Toyota Tacoma operated by Kent Galbraith, 3 1, from Sacramento, California. After this initial impact, Ms. Knight continued westbound, traveled left of center and struck a 2012 Ford Focus driven by 21-year-old Sapphire Hackathorn, also from Sandusky.
The collision caused Knight’s vehicle to spin into a westbound Ford Explorer driven by Jami Messer, 38, from Mansfield, Ohio. Hackathorn then sfruck a 2016 Ford Escape operated by 80-year-old Millie McCready from Huron, Ohio, and a 2018 Jeep Cherokee driven by 32-year-old Sabrina Crawford-Gerber from Castalia, Ohio.
Both Knight and Hackathorn sustained injuries and were transported by Perkins EMS to Firelands Hospital.
Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation, with assistance from the Perkins Police Department, Perkins Fire & EMS, and Wilson’s Towing.
September 11, 2024 (COLUMBUS, Ohio)— Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced new state support for the city of Springfield, which is dealing with significant stress on its healthcare and public safety systems due to the influx of thousands of Haitian migrants over the last several years.
“I want the people of Springfield and Clark County to know that as we move forward, we will continue to do everything we can to help the community deal with this surge of migrants,” said Governor DeWine. “The federal government has not demonstrated that they have any kind of plan to deal with the issue. We will not walk away.”
The influx of Haitians to Springfield and Clark County has significantly impacted local primary care providers due to the increased number of patients and the need for more translation services. In general, migrants from Haiti have had little to no healthcare services prior to arriving in the United States, including vaccinations. Governor DeWine announced today that he is dedicating $2.5 million toward expanding primary care access for everyone living in Springfield. Governor DeWine has directed the Ohio Department of Health to work with the Clark County Health Department and other healthcare providers on this effort.
To address the increase in dangerous driving in Springfield by inexperienced Haitian drivers and all others who disregard traffic laws, Governor DeWine directed the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) to support the Springfield Police Department with traffic enforcement. Beginning tomorrow morning, OSHP troopers will patrol local roads with the highest crash rates and hold accountable any driver who drives erratically and risks the safety of others.
These two new initiatives add to other support that the state has already provided to Springfield to aid in addressing the increase in the area’s Haitian population, including:
creating a school-based health clinic in the Springfield City School District to expand primary care access for school children and their parents throughout the community
increasing support for vaccinations and health screenings through the local health department
allocating additional funds to the Clark County Department of Job and Family Services for translation services
providing funding to Clark State College for services to teach English to Haitians.
providing driving simulators and offering driver education classes targeted to the Haitian community
working with the Springfield School District to maximize existing resources and provide ongoing support to deal with the surge of migrant students
Because the federal government’s policies have led to this and other migrant surges across the United States, Governor DeWine also called on the federal government to better support communities that experience an unexpected increase in migrant population.
“The federal government needs to assist these communities with funding because these dramatic migrant surges impact every citizen in the community — the moms who have to wait hours in a waiting room with a sick child, everyone who drives on our streets, and the children who go to school in more crowded classrooms,” said Governor DeWine. “The federal government does not have a plan to give any support to the communities impacted by surges, and we have absolutely no indication that a plan is coming in the near future.”
Joe Lyons •
October 16, 2024
