Local News

Lego Bandit Posts Bond

Ashland, OH — Lucas P. Flynt, 42, faced charges of misdemeanor fleeing or eluding and misdemeanor theft following a high-speed police chase on Tuesday, October 1. The incident began around 4 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Route 250 and I-71, where Flynt allegedly attempted to evade Ashland Police Division Officers.

The pursuit continued southbound on I-71 until Flynt crashed his vehicle at the off-ramp to U.S. Route 30. After the crash, he surrendered to authorities without further incident.

Today, Flynt appeared in Ashland Municipal Court before Judge John L. Good, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. Judge Good set his bond at $35,000, allowing for a 10% cash option or bail bond. Additional bond conditions include a prohibition against operating any motor vehicle, the requirement to have GPS monitoring at his own expense, and a restriction from entering the premises of the Ashland Walmart.

Flynt posted the required 10% cash bond, totaling $3,554, and is now subject to the stipulated conditions.

Pre-Trial set for 10/21/2024 at 10:15AM

A 16-Year-Old and 14-Year-Old Arrested in Connection With Multiple Vehicle Thefts

This summer, the police division saw an increase in vehicle thefts. On Monday, September 30th, patrol officers began to look for potential suspects based on descriptions provided through video surveillance. With keen attention to detail, Officer Adam Wolbert noticed two stolen bicycles tucked behind a residence, leading to further investigation and ultimately identifying two suspects.

A 16-year-old male and his 14-year-old brother, both Ashland City residents, were detained and questioned. The pair were linked to eight vehicle thefts, breaking and entering, theft from a vehicle, and an ATV theft. Officers and detectives worked with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office on the cases, as two vehicles were stolen from Ashland County’s jurisdiction. The two juveniles are charged with Unauthorized use of a vehicle. The Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing the cases for additional charges.

 

We would like to remind the public to lock their car doors and take their keys inside. In most cases, vehicles that have been trespassed in and stolen are unlocked with the keys left inside.

Contact:

Curt Dorsey

Detective Lieutenant

dorsey.curt@ashland-ohio.com

Ashland County Pictures Joins Amazon Hub Delivery to Boost Local Business

Ashland County, OH — Ashland County Pictures LLC has taken a significant step by joining “Amazon Hub Delivery,” a program designed to enhance income opportunities for small businesses in the area. The program not only benefits Ashland County Pictures but is also seeking to engage more local businesses in package delivery services.

This partnership presents a unique opportunity for small businesses in rural communities and small towns. There are no startup costs or long-term contracts, making it accessible for entrepreneurs looking to generate additional revenue.

By becoming an Amazon Hub Delivery Partner, local businesses can increase their income while delivering service and smiles to the Ashland community.

Interested business owners are encouraged to reach out to Michele Seager or visit amazon.com/hubdelivery for more information. Michele can be contacted by phone at (419) 902-0038 or via email at seagermq@amazon.com. This program represents a promising opportunity for local enterprises to thrive and enhance community services.

Miller, Ashland County Delegation Tour Southern Border

COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) toured the southern U.S. border in Cochise County, Arizona this week alongside Ashland Mayor Matt Miller and incoming Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider.

The Ashland County delegation met with Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels and local law enforcement to gain a firsthand understanding of how federal policy is affecting illegal immigration.

“This tour was an eye-opening experience,” said Miller. “You see dozens of stories on the news, but until you are here, it’s difficult to grasp the full scale of the crisis caused by our federal border policies.”

Along with a briefing on the Cartel’s control of the border and efforts to combat human and drug smuggling, the delegation met with local leaders and joined the border enforcement team on patrol.

“Seeing firsthand how easily cartels smuggle people across the border really drives home the severity of the human trafficking crisis. The border is just the starting point of a horrific journey for many victims, and it’s clear we need to take stronger action, not just at the border, but here in Ohio, to stop this exploitation and protect vulnerable people.”

Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Hall Presents 90-Day Update as New Dog Warden

ASHLAND, OH— In a this morning’s meeting with the Ashland County Commissioners, Deputy Hall of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office provided an insightful 90-day update on his new role as the county’s dog warden. The presentation highlighted significant strides made in dog licensing, shelter operations, and community relations, underscoring the positive impact of strategic community policing initiatives.

Deputy Hall began his address by expressing gratitude to Sheriff Risner, Chief Blake, and Captain Sims for their support, which he credits with enabling a flexible approach to his duties. “This position has allowed me to not only engage with the community but also utilize innovative policing strategies, such as building bridges instead of walls,” Hall remarked, emphasizing the importance of understanding the people he serves.

Collaboration with Local Agencies

A central theme of Hall’s update was collaboration. He acknowledged the efforts of the local auditor’s office, which he described as “unsung heroes” in ensuring that records accurately reflect the dynamics of dog ownership in the county. “With their assistance, we’ve made significant improvements in tracking and reporting,” Hall noted, addressing the challenges posed by fluctuations in dog populations due to factors like relocations and unfortunate incidents.

He also praised the health department for their cooperation in tackling the rising number of dog bite incidents. “Our dog bite numbers are through the roof,” Hall admitted, while detailing his efforts to work closely with legal authorities, including the law director’s office and local judges, to streamline the handling of such cases. Hall expressed appreciation for the support he received, which has led to advancements in how dog-related incidents are charged and prosecuted.

Significant Impact on Dog Licensing

Hall reported that in the past 90 days, he has managed a total of 170 calls for service, a clear indication of the proactive measures being taken to improve dog ownership compliance. He highlighted that 473 delinquent dog licenses have been resolved, contributing to the issuance of 641 total dog licenses, which generated approximately $20,000 in revenue directly allocated to the Dog Shelter Fund.

“This funding is crucial for relieving some of the financial stress on our shelter,” he explained. “Contrary to popular belief, these funds are not entering the general fund but are specifically directed back to support the shelter.”

Hall noted that Ashland County now ranks third among neighboring counties in terms of dog license compliance, a notable achievement given the historical challenges faced. He compared this success to Union County, which has a more established program, indicating a significant upward trend in local compliance.

Shelter Performance and Adoption Success

Deputy Hall’s update also encompassed a report on shelter operations. Currently, the Ashland County Dog Shelter is housing 34 dogs. In the past 90 days, 35 dogs have been adopted, and 40 have been reunited with their owners. Hall projected that the shelter generated about $7,300 in revenue during this period, although he suspects the actual figure may be higher due to unaccounted fees.

This performance is not just about numbers; it reflects a broader commitment to improving the welfare of animals in the county. Hall has been actively involved in efforts to promote the shelter and its services, indicating that upcoming events, such as adoption fairs, are crucial for public engagement.

Community Engagement Initiatives

In an effort to enhance community visibility and relations, Deputy Hall announced several initiatives aimed at increasing public awareness of the shelter’s mission. “We’ve participated in the fair and other public events, allowing us to connect with the community,” he stated. He invited community members to an upcoming adoption event, which will feature a range of activities, including a raffle and potential food offerings.

Sheriff Risner commented on Hall’s performance, stating, “We entered this initiative unsure of what to expect, but Hall has shown enthusiasm and dedication. This job is challenging, especially when dealing with issues that affect families.”

Commissioner President Denny Bittle echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Hall’s organizational skills and proactive approach. “When Deputy Hall started, we had over 900 unlicensed dogs. To see such a significant reduction in such a short time is remarkable,” Bittle remarked. He also praised Hall for his balanced decision-making regarding the shelter’s policies, especially concerning the sensitive issue of euthanizing aggressive or unadoptable dogs.

Conclusion

As Deputy Hall concluded his presentation, he reaffirmed his commitment to continuous improvement in dog licensing and shelter operations. The collaborative efforts with various local agencies have positioned Ashland County to tackle challenges more effectively while ensuring that the welfare of dogs remains a top priority.

With ongoing community engagement and innovative strategies, the future looks promising for both the Ashland County Dog Shelter and its four-legged residents. As Deputy Hall prepares for the next phase of his role, he remains focused on creating a safe, compliant, and caring environment for all dogs in the county.

Video courtesy of the Ashland County Commissioners Office

ACCF Revamps Loans for Adult Education

ASHLAND – Starting this fall, Ashland County Community Foundation will award Hess Educational Loans to eligible adults year-round, so these individuals can take the next step in their education at their own pace.

Hess Educational Loans are available to help qualified students pay tuition and fees for higher education. Applications are typically reviewed three times each year for high school, continuing college or adult students pursuing a 2 or 4-year degree. For adult students pursuing certifications or other non-degree programs, year-round applications with quick-turnaround decisions are now available.

“We recognize that adults don’t operate on semesters, and adult education programs can start at various times throughout the year,” said Lanie Hartge, ACCF’s Educational Programs Director. “By creating a program specifically for adults, we are able to meet the needs of students pursuing certificates and other non-degree programs.”

Hess Loans are an exclusive Ashland County advantage made possible by a generous gift of Dr. and Mrs. Gilbert Hess in 1923. These loans are interest-free during the time the student is in school plus one year. After that time, interest is charged at the current prime rate.

Ashland County residents who are entering or currently enrolled in an Adult Education program are invited to visit www.ashlandforgood.org/educational-loans to learn more and take an eligibility quiz to see if they qualify.

“We’re excited to offer this new program, which was developed in alignment with our strategic priority of strengthening Ashland County’s workforce,” said Jim Cutright, ACCF President/CEO. “We hope that with a more flexible timeline, more adults will be able to take advantage of this financial assistance as they work toward their career goals.”

Applications for assistance with certificate and other non-degree programs can be submitted at any time with notification of loan approval or denial within three weeks.

For graduating high school seniors, continuing college students and adults pursuing degrees, application deadlines are November 1 for spring semester, March 1 for summer programs and June 15 for fall semester.

About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $33 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.

Ashland County’s Next Sheriff, Kurt Schneider, Leads Local Delegation to Tour Southern Border

Schneider Continues Promise of Fighting the Effects of Illegal Immigration

Schneider Releases the Following Press Release

Ashland, OH––Ashland County’s next Sheriff, Kurt Schneider, organized a local delegation—including State Representative Melanie Miller, Ashland Mayor Matt Miller, and local community leader Sean Bartley—this week to tour the Southern Border to assess the crisis, meet with law enforcement, and see how the breakdown at the border is impacting crime and communities across the country.

The delegation visited Cochise County Arizona to meet with Sheriff Mark Dannels to see how law enforcement patrols the border and how federal policy and action impacts illegal immigration on the border.

“Illegal Immigration is a strain on our community, state, and nation. I’m proud to lead a delegation of our local officials down to the border to see the crisis firsthand and learn what law enforcement is doing to combat it,” stated Kurt Schneider.

“More and more Ohioans are taking an even greater interest in the issue of illegal immigration—as it is beginning to impact many of our local communities. Hearing how these border states are handling this crisis helps me be a better advocate for ways that we can secure our state from the negative effects of this terrible situation,” said State Representative Melanie Miller.

“There is a lot of hype coming from those on both sides of this critical issue, and I made this trip so I could hear firsthand from those law enforcement officials on the ground at the border as to what is really happening,” said Ashland Mayor Matt Miller. “And the truth is it is even worse than we think. Every American—no matter where you live—should be concerned about the crime taking place at our nation’s border.”

The tour consisted of a briefing on the Cartel’s control of the border, efforts to combat human and drug smuggling, meeting with local leaders; surveying the Obama Wall, the expanded Trump Wall and technological advances, and where the Biden-Harris administration stopped construction of the Wall and new technology; and joined the border enforcement team on patrol.

“We saw how the cartel’s elaborate system for smuggling undocumented aliens into the United States brings this crisis to our doorstep. Additionally, we learned that all of the people crossing in Cochise County are smuggled across by the Cartel, attempt to avoid law enforcement, and then basically become indentured servants to the Cartel after they are transported to communities around the country,” stated Kurt Schneider.

In his election, Kurt Schneider promised to fight the effects of illegal immigration and do whatever could be done to keep Ashland County Families Safe.

“First, our immigration system and border are broken. This border visit made it clear to me that the problem is worse than many think and that there are things we can all do to improve it. We need to reelect President Trump and key supporters like Bernie Moreno so they can continue Trump’s border security package. It was working and can work again,” stated Kurt Schneider.

Fatal Crash on Bowman Street Road near Myers Road

Franklin Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Mansfield Post, is investigating a fatal crash involving a 2019 Nissan Rogue and a Richland County Highway Department worker.

 

The Richland County Highway Department was completing intermittent moving road maintenance along Bowman Street Road, between Myers Road and Amoy West Road.

 

Delana Kunz, age 43 of Shelby, Ohio, was operating a white Nissan Rogue SUV southeast on Bowman Street Road, south of Myers Road. Trenton Gallaway, age 20 of Lucas, Ohio, was outside of a Highway Department vehicle when he was struck, while the Nissan Rogue was attempting to pass on the left.

 

As a result of the collision, Mr. Gallaway succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The crash occurred on October 2, 2024, at approximately 2:24 P.M.

 

The Mansfield Post was assisted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin Township Fire & EMS, Weller Township Fire & EMS, Richland County Coroner and Ronk’s Towing.

 

The crash remains under investigation.

North Central Workforce Alliance of Ohio 2024 Summit set for October 30th

 

Program to Focus on Talent Retention and Workplace Culture

Ashland, OH—The North Central Workforce Alliance of Ohio (NCWA) 2024 Workforce Summit is scheduled for Wednesday, October 30th at Mount Vernon Estate. This year’s program will feature keynote speaker Lisa Ryan and guest panelists Ben Maibach, President of The Wooster Brush Company, and Karen Alsop, Human Resources Director for Centerra Co-Op.

Erv Howard, NCWA’s Executive Director, says this year’s summit isn’t one you’ll want to miss, “We’ve created an agenda with powerful, relevant content for North Central Ohio’s industry leaders. Every attendee will leave with invaluable insights on today’s workforce.”

The keynote address, titled “Unlocking the Power of Workforce Culture for Talent Retention,” will be presented by inspirational speaker and employee engagement expert Lisa Ryan, who will share proven strategies to engage, inspire, and retain your current workforce and client base. Early registrants will receive a personalized copy of Ryan’s newest book Thank You Very Much: Gratitude Strategies to Create a Workplace Culture that ROCKS!

“Engagement and retention are universal challenges for employers,” said Karen Alsop, incoming NCWA President. “We’re excited to welcome an award-winning speaker with real-world insight on the topic, this will be a great opportunity for everyone to learn more about the importance of sincere gratitude and building relationships.”

Registration is open through October 21st and tickets for this event will be on a first come, first serve basis as the event is expected to sell out. Tickets are $25 for NCWA members and $35 for other guests. Attendees can register on the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce’s website.

 

About the North Central Workforce Alliance of Ohio

NCWA is a business-driven partnership consisting of employers from North Central Ohio whose focus is to share resources and ideas to solve common problems in attracting, training, and retaining the qualified and dedicated employees needed to grow area businesses. The organization focuses on the following business sectors: agriculture and animal science, construction, heavy equipment, information technology, manufacturing, medical and bio-technology, service and retail, and welding. More information can be found at ncwaofohio.org.

Car Collides with Amish Buggy on State Route 89

Ashland County, OH – A morning collision between a car and an Amish buggy on State Route 89 has left two individuals injured and a horse deceased. The incident occurred around 7:47 AM this morning, just north of County Road 700.

According to the Ohio Highway Patrol, both the car and the buggy were traveling southbound when the car, a 2023 Bronco Sport, struck the rear of the buggy. The force of the impact ejected a 17-year-old Amish male and a 58-year-old Amish male from the buggy. Both were transported to Ohio-Health Mansfield Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Bronco was cited for Assured Clear Distance Ahead (ACDA).

The Ohio Highway Patrol requested assistance from Tri County Animal Clinic Inc. out of West Salem, Ohio, to care for the horse. Due to the serious injuries the horse was euthanized at the scene.

The Ohio Highway Patrol remind drivers to remain vigilant and maintain safe distances, especially in areas where horse-drawn vehicles may be present. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

ASHLAND WEATHER