Yesterday Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell released ten (10) felony indictments issued by the Ashland County Grand Jury which met for a day- long session in December.
The Grand Jury issued a total of eighteen (18) indictments, eight of which remain sealed because they have not been served as of today’s date. The following persons were the subject of an indictment and have or will appear before the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas:
• Ahmed Palmer of Mansfield, case no. 22-CRI-217, investigating agency APD
Count One: Aggravated Possession of Drugs/ with three specifications
Count Two: Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs/ with three specifications
Count Three: Possession of Cocaine/ with three specifications
Count Four: Trafficking in Cocaine/ with three specifications
Count Five: Possession of a Fentanyl-Related Compound/ with three specifications
Count Six: Trafficking in a Fentanyl-Related Compound/ with three specifications
Count Seven: Possession of Drugs/ with three specifications
See Copy of Indictment
• Zachary Ross Finchum of Greenwood, IN, case no. 22-CRI-232, investigating
agency ACSO
Count One: Aggravated Possession of Drugs/ with One specification
See Copy of Indictment
• Josephine Mary Richmond of Ashland, case no. 22-CRI-229, investigating agency
ACSO
Count One: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse or a combination of them – OVI
Count Two: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse or a combination of them – OVI
Count Three: Resisting arrest
See Copy of Indictment
• Jeffrey Olmstead of Loudonville, case no. 22-CRI-230, investigating agency APD
Count One: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse or a combination of them – OVI / with one specifications
Count Two: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse or a combination of them – OVI / with one specifications
See Copy of Indictment
• Salia Setser of Mansfield, case no. 22-CRI-236, investigating agency APD
Count One: Theft
Count Two: Possessing Criminal Tools
See Copy of Indictment
• Meghan Dunbar of Brookpark, OH, case no. 22-CRI-235, investigating agency APD
Count One: Complicity (theft) / with one specifications
Count Two: Possessing criminal tools / with one specifications
See Copy of Indictment
• Shawna Davis of Ashland, case no. 22-CRI-158, investigating agency APD
Count One: Complicity (Arson)
Count Two: (Arson)
See Copy of Indictment
• Mark Owens, Jr. of Ashland, case no. 22-CRI-243, investigating agency APD
Count One: Aggravated Possession of Drugs/ with one specification
See Copy of Indictment
• Emery Kopina of Ashland, case no. 22-CRI-247, investigating agency APD
COUNT ONE: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
COUNT TWO: VIOLATING A PROTECTION ORDER
COUNT THREE: INTIMIDATION
See Copy of Indictment
• Connor Nicholas Herevia of Shelby, case no. 22-CRI-231, investigating agency ACSO
COUNT ONE: VIOLATING A PROTECTION ORDER
See Copy of Indictment
Prosecutor Tunnell would like to thank the Grand Jurors for their time and assistance, and the men and women of the investigating agencies for their hard work in protecting Ashland County citizens. Prosecutor Tunnell further stressed that all persons indicted by the December Grand Jury are innocent until proven guilty.
The Sheriff recognized selected employees for their hard work, accomplishments and distinguished service for 2022.
In addition to those listed below, other employees received certificates of Commendations and Merit, lifesaving awards, and letters of Appreciation.
DEPUTY OF THE YEAR: Aaron Frasher. He is a graduate of Ontario HS class of 2008. Served in the Marine Corps from 2009-2012 He earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice from NCState in 2022. He has been employed since 2017.
DETECTIVE OF THE YEAR: Giovanni Masi. He is a graduate of Lexington HS class of 2014. Served in the Army National Guard 2013-2019, He has been employed since 2016.
LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR: Sergeant Amber Alfrey. She is a graduate of Clear Fork HS class of 2002. Associates Degree NC State 2005. Bachelor’s Degree Tiffin University 2012. She has been employed since 2008.
CORRECTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR: Isaiah Morales. He is a graduate of Ontario HS class of 2020. He has been employed since 2020.
CORRECTIONAL SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR: Sergeant Tim Weese. He is a graduate of Madison HS class of 1995. Served in US Army for 3 years. He has been employed since 2013.
DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR: Cara Batten. She is a graduate of the Ohio Virtual Academy Class of 2017. She has been employed since 2020.
CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR: Maggie Liggett. She is a graduate of Galion HS class of 2004. She has been an employee since 2017.
(Ashland) – Last month, we saw what a strong winter storm can do and the impact it makes on our roadways. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds drivers to follow safe driving tips and winterize their vehicles in preparation for inclement weather. Ever-changing weather patterns in the winter can catch drivers off guard. You can reduce the risks of being involved in a crash by ensuring your vehicle is ready for the season, adopting winter driving techniques and following general roadway safety.
Last winter, there were 12,939 crashes on snow, ice or slush-covered roads in Ohio. These crashes resulted in 17 fatal crashes, which killed 17 people. Unsafe speed by the at-fault driver was the reported cause of 21 percent of the crashes on snow, ice or slush covered roads.
“As we saw last month, winter weather can impact your travel plans, routes and timing,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Watch the weather, leave earlier or later, plan ahead and help mitigate hazards.”
Before traveling in winter weather, clear the snow and ice from your windows, headlights, and taillights of your vehicle. Also, allow defrosters time to work so you can see. Once you begin driving, go slow and increase following distances; bridges, ramps, and overpasses will freeze first.
Remember, Ohio law requires headlights to be on at any time when the windshield wipers of the vehicle are in use. If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, clear the tailpipe free of all snow and debris to decrease the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.
“Drivers should increase their following distances, have patience and be aware in winter weather,” said Brad Bishop Post commander, “It takes drivers longer to stop and turn. If you’re stranded, remain calm.”
If your vehicle breaks down or you are involved in a crash, turn on your hazard lights, move your vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, remain in the vehicle, and call #677.
The Patrol reminds drivers to stock their vehicles with a winter car kit that includes an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, cell phone charger, first aid kit, tow rope, water, and food for longer trips. It is also important to ensure your tires have plenty of tread, check your battery, and keep your windshield washer reservoir full.
If you must travel in winter weather, visit http://www.ohgo.com/ for real-time traffic conditions from the Ohio Department of Transportation. The Patrol’s winter driving traffic safety bulletin can be found at: https://statepatrol.ohio.gov/static/links/Winter_Driving_Bulletin_2023.pdf.
Officers responded to the Quality Inn at 500 N. Trimble Rd. at about 10:45 am. A staff person called the police after hearing multiple gunshots inside.
Upon searching the facility Mansfield Police Officers located a 16-year-old victim inside a staircase.
It appears the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds thus resulting in his death. The Richland County Coroner’s Office will be sending the victim for an autopsy as this is an ongoing investigation.
Major Crimes detectives are working to find out what led to the shooting death as well as to identify a suspect(s). Details are very limited as this is an active and fluid investigation. Additional details will be released once they are available.
Anyone with information about this investigation to please call Major Crimes Detective Terry Butler at (419) 755-9791.
Crawford County Sheriff’s Office & Ohio Highway Patrol announced in a Facebook posting the following:
***UPDATE: SUSPECT IN CUSTODY*** Patrol seeks public assistance in locating dangerous escapee
UPDATE: Last night at 11:34 p.m., Jacob Davidson was taken into custody near Chapmanville, West Virginia. The Patrol would like to thank the public for their assistance, as well as the United States Marshal Service, West Virginia State Police, Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Detective Bureau, Licking County Sheriff’s Office, Crawford County Sheriff’s Office and the Columbus Division of Police.
Update – On January 1st, 2023 at 10:34 pm, Jacob Davidson was arrested in Chapmanville, WV by West Virginia State Police. There are no other details surrounding this arrest. He will be transported to the Western Regional Jail, in West Virginia and held until he can be extradited back to Ohio.
Previously- Shortly after 8pm this date the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office was notified that Jacob D. Davidson DOB: 4-26-84 had escaped from Twin Valley Behavioral Health Hospital located at 2200 W. Board St. Columbus, Ohio.
On November 10, 2022 the Crawford County and Morrow County Sheriff’s Office responded to shooting incidents in where one person was injured. A suspect vehicle description was broadcast to local law enforcement. Shortly after receiving the shooting complaints a Bucyrus Police Officer spotted a vehicle matching the description of the shooter’s vehicle and stopped it. Upon making the traffic stop, gunshots were exchanged between the driver and officer. Jacob Davidson was identified as the shooter and taken into custody without injury to himself or the officer.
Davidson was subsequently indicted for Felonious Assault, a Felony of the 1st Degree, Discharging a Firearm on/or near a Prohibited Premises, a Felony of the 3rd Degree and Disrupting Public Services and Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle both Felonies of the 4th Degree. He was ordered to be held on a two-million-dollar bond.
On December 20th, Davidson was to transferred from the Crawford County Jail to Twin Valley Behavioral Health Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol holds jurisdiction over Twin Valley and is investigating the incident. A warrant for Davidson’s arrest is expected to be issued out of Franklin County, Ohio for Escape.
Unknown if Davidson has any weapons, however he should be considered Armed and Dangerous. If you see Davidson or have any information of his whereabouts contact your local law enforcement or 911.
Davidson is described as a white male, 38 years of age being 5’11” tall, weighing 160 lbs. with blue eyes. He was last known to have brown unkept hair with a full beard.
Come to Charles Mill Lake, sign the waiver, make your donation and you’re ready to take a dip!
Each year on January 1st at 3pm, we meet at Charles Mill Lake raise funds for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Ashland County which supports ALL cancers!
Polar Bear Dip Cold for the Cure Charles Mill Lake Mansfield, Ohio January 1st at 3:00pm
Ashland Police Division Sends a Big Thanks for the community’s help.
This is Jacob Simmons, 15-year-old male. Ran away from his sisters approximately 35-40 minutes ago in Mathews/Ronald Ave area. Wearing a black T-shirt, grey sweatpants.
Shortly after 8pm this date the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office was notified that Jacob D. Davidson DOB: 4-26-84 had escaped from Twin Valley Behavioral Health Hospital located at 2200 W. Board St. Columbus, Ohio.
On November 10, 2022 the Crawford County and Morrow County Sheriff’s Office responded to shooting incidents in where one person was injured. A suspect vehicle description was broadcast to local law enforcement. Shortly after receiving the shooting complaints a Bucyrus Police Officer spotted a vehicle matching the description of the shooter’s vehicle and stopped it. Upon making the traffic stop, gunshots were exchanged between the driver and officer. Jacob Davidson was identified as the shooter and taken into custody without injury to himself or the officer.
Davidson was subsequently indicted for Felonious Assault, a Felony of the 1st Degree, Discharging a Firearm on/or near a Prohibited Premises, a Felony of the 3rd Degree and Disrupting Public Services and Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle both Felonies of the 4th Degree. He was ordered to be held on a two-million-dollar bond.
On December 20th, Davidson was transferred from the Crawford County Jail to Twin Valley Behavioral Health Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol holds jurisdiction over Twin Valley and is investigating the incident. A warrant for Davidson’s arrest is expected to be issued out of Franklin County, Ohio for Escape.
Unknown if Davidson has any weapons, however he should be considered Armed and Dangerous. If you see Davidson or have any information of his whereabouts contact your local law enforcement or 911.
Davidson is described as a white male, 38 years of age being 5’11” tall, weighing 160 lbs. with blue eyes. He was last known to have brown unkept hair with a full beard.
Patrol seeks public assistance in locating dangerous escapee
COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently seeking the public’s assistance in locating a dangerous escapee.
On December 29, Jacob D. Davidson escaped from Twin Valley Behavioral Heath Hospital located at 2200 West Broad Street in Columbus. Davidson, 38, is described as a white male with blue eyes, 5’11” tall and 210 pounds. He was last seen with brown hair and a full beard.
Davidson was being held on numerous felony charges in relation to a November 10 shooting in Morrow County, that led to an officer-involved shooting with the Bucyrus Police Department. He was last seen wearing a red flannel shirt with a maroon t-shirt underneath, blue sweatpants and black Velcro tennis shoes.
Davidson should be considered dangerous. If spotted, do not approach and contact law enforcement immediately.
The Patrol is the investigating agency in this escape. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Mr. Davidson, please contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol at 614-466-2660.
COLUMBUS – This year, the New Year’s Eve holiday is different from years past. The holiday is also mixed with a college football playoff game, featuring the Ohio State Buckeyes. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging drivers who intend to watch football and/or celebrate the new year to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. The Patrol’s zero-tolerance policy is part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign.
The New Year’s holiday reporting period begins Friday, December 30 at midnight and ends on Monday, January 2 at 11:59 p.m.
During the four-day 2021-2022 New Year’s reporting period, there were 12 fatal crashes that killed 12 people. Of those, alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in six fatal crashes, while speed played a role in two of the crashes. Of the eight fatalities in which seat belts were available, five were unbelted. There were also four pedestrians killed during the holiday period.
“We want those celebrating the new year and cheering on the Buckeyes to enjoy their night, but without putting the lives of others at risk,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Please designate a driver before you venture out.”
During last year’s reporting period, the Patrol made 232 arrests for OVI. Last year’s reporting period ran from Thursday, December 30 through Sunday, January 2.
“Driving impaired can have tragic and senseless consequences,” said Colonel Chuck A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “We need you to help us ring in the new year safely and responsibly.”
Joe Lyons •
January 4, 2023
