The Mansfield Division of Police would like to ask the community for assistance in locating a runaway juvenile.
Savanna Pappendick ran away from a residence in Mansfield Ohio on February 26, 2024. Savanna is thought to possibly be in the area of Hollywood Maryland with friends, however, that information has not been confirmed.
Savanna does have contacts in the Brunswick and Parma Ohio areas as well. Savanna is listed as a runaway with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (case number M827824090).
Savanna is now 17 years old, listed as 5’4’’ 110 bro/blue. Savanna does wear glasses on occasion. All efforts to locate Savanna by family, NCMIC, Children Services, and law enforcement have been unsuccessful.
If you or someone you know has information on the whereabouts of Savana Pappendick, please call Mansfield Division of Police Detective Ronee Swisher at (419) 755 – 9432 or National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1 – 800 – THE – LOST or Ashland County Children Service at (419)-282-5000
The Mansfield Division of Police is seeking information from the community to identify a suspect in an ongoing felony theft investigation.
On February 21st, 2024, the suspect entered several Park National Bank locations in Mansfield and the surrounding area. The suspect presented checks to the tellers requesting to cash them. The suspect received cash from each of the locations, however, it was later discovered that each of the checks presented were counterfeit.
Detectives are requesting the communities assistance in identifying this suspect in an effort to bring him to justice.
Anyone with information about this investigation or the suspect is asked to call Mansfield Police Major Crimes Detective Larry Schacherer at (419) 755-9766.
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
Record Attendance at 6th Annual Brookside Pool “Big Splash” Party in Ashland
Ashland, OH – The 6th annual Brookside Pool “Big Splash” pool party proved to be an outstanding success, thanks to the remarkable efforts of Ashland Mayor Matt Miller and his team. The event, held under sunny skies, attracted over 1,400 participants, making it the most attended pool party in its history.
Mayor Matt Miller, along with his wife, State Representative Melanie Miller, personally greeted attendees and handed out leis, setting a warm and welcoming tone for the event. Melanie Miller even joined in the fun, dancing the “Cha-Cha Slide” with the children, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The party featured an array of activities, including pool games with around 3,000 rubber ducks, free Chick-fil-A meals, and refreshing snow cones. Music and dancing kept spirits high throughout the day, creating an unforgettable experience for all.
Reflecting on the event, Mayor Matt Miller expressed his delight, stating, “What a day we have had! We estimate over 1,400 people attended this year’s Big Splash pool party. We did a lot of planning, and our friends from Chick-fil-A had to bring another truck with more chicken to serve everyone. We’ve given out thousands of snow cones. It’s been a fantastic day with everyone in good spirits and plenty of big splashes in the pool.”
The highlight of the day was the “Big Splash” event, where all the young participants gathered around the pool, counted down, and jumped in simultaneously to create the biggest splash possible. Mayor Miller noted, “The kids have a wonderful time with it, and it’s refreshing for the adults too. This has truly been a wonderful big splash pool party.”
When asked if this was the largest crowd ever, Mayor Miller confirmed, “Absolutely, without question. Mother Nature cooperated with a beautiful day, and word is getting out that this is the most fantastic pool party around. Even with 1,000 people in the complex, everyone was laughing, singing, and dancing.”
The mayor also emphasized the importance of creating lasting memories for families and children. “One of our goals was to make memories for these families, especially the children. Years from now, we hope they remember the days spent in Brookside Park and want to come back and raise their families here.”
Mayor Miller expressed gratitude to his team and sponsors, saying, “I can’t thank the ladies in the mayor’s office, our department heads, and our park and recreation crew enough. They were out here early setting everything up. This event is entirely funded through donations, and we are grateful to the Norma Foundation, our primary sponsor, and all the individuals who contribute.”
The sense of community was unmistakable, with attendees from various nearby cities, including Akron, Mansfield, and Bucyrus, expressing their appreciation. Mayor Miller concluded, “We are blessed to have such a large and beautiful pool complex that can accommodate all these people. Ashland continues to be someplace special.”
The 6th annual Brookside Pool “Big Splash” party was a resounding success, leaving attendees with cherished memories and anticipation for next year’s event.
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
On the evening of July 24, at approximately 7:34 p.m., the Ashland Police Division responded to a robbery at the Rite Aid Pharmacy located at 419 Claremont Avenue. According to witnesses, three black males fled the scene on foot before being picked up by a suspect vehicle, identified as a Silver Ford Escape.
The quick response by Ashland Police led to the initiation of a high-speed pursuit.
The pursuit began on Claremont Avenue, where the Silver Ford Escape was seen traveling at an excessive speed. During the chase, suspects discarded empty pill bottles from the vehicle.
The chase extended beyond city limits, continuing into the county and onto Interstate 71 southbound. The Ohio State Patrol from the Mansfield Post joined the pursuit near State Route 13. The high-speed chase came to an end on I-270 near Cemetery Road, thanks to coordinated efforts from multiple surrounding agencies.
The suspects apprehended in connection with the robbery are:
Sir Christon Spencer Unique Sincere Rogers, 23, of Huber Heights, Ohio
Sir Christon Spencer Unique Sincere Rogers
Kerry Dion Stephens, 24, of Trotwood, Ohio
Kerry Dion Stephens
James Phipps Marshawn, 23, of Dayton, Ohio
James Phipps Marshawn
Robert Lee Prater, 25, of Dayton, Ohio
Robert Lee Prater
Taquan Derion Thompson, 29, of Dayton, Ohio
Taquan Derion Thompson
All five suspects are currently being held in the Ashland County Jail pending a review of charges by the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office.
The investigation into the robbery is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity or has non-emergency information related to the incident to contact the Ashland Police Division at 419-289-1911.
This significant arrest highlights the cooperation and quick action of multiple law enforcement agencies, ensuring the safety and security of the community.
ASHLAND, OH – Ashland experienced its first pharmacy robbery yesterday at the Rite Aid Pharmacy located at 419 Claremont Ave. This incident is part of a troubling trend of similar robberies happening across Ohio and neighboring states, prompting authorities to investigate a potential coordinated criminal operation targeting pharmacies.
Rite Aid Pharmacy located at 419 Claremont Ave
The Ashland robbery has raised suspicions due to its resemblance to other incidents in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and beyond. The timing and descriptions of the robbers suggest a possible link between these crimes.
Ohio ranked third in the nation for armed pharmacy robberies last year, trailing only California and Indiana. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Ohio witnessed 42 armed pharmacy robberies last year.
***Ashland Police Division is expected to release a statement soon***
In a related incident just last month, the Ada Police Department is investigating a robbery that occurred on June 24, 2024, at the Rite Aid Pharmacy at 610 S. Main St., Ada, OH. The robbery took place at 8:54 p.m., with three suspects described as black males wearing COVID-19 style masks and dressed in all-black clothing. No weapons were seen or presented, and no injuries were reported. The suspects fled on foot with prescription medications and are believed to have left town in a vehicle shortly after. The Ada Police Department has urged the community to provide any information regarding the incident by contacting Detective Eichman at (419) 558-3360.
Pharmacy Robbery Safety Tips
Pharmacy Times offers the following advice for dealing with a robbery:
Cooperate fully: Prioritize safety over heroics. No amount of stolen drugs is worth risking lives.
Observe details: Pay attention to the perpetrator’s actions and what they touch. Note if there’s an accomplice and independently record descriptions of the suspects and the event.
Identify weapons: If a weapon is displayed, observe its type and color.
Stay calm: Indicate willingness to comply with demands.
Note escape details: If possible, record the escape vehicle’s description, license number, and direction. If the suspect is on foot, note their direction and initial route of travel.
Secure the premises: Lock down the building after the event and call the police.
Wait for authorities: Cooperate fully with the police upon their arrival.
The recent surge in pharmacy robberies highlights the need for heightened vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the community to tackle this growing problem.
ASHLAND COUNTY – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced several construction projects that will impact roadways in Ashland County next week. All outlined work is weather permitting and subject to change.
U.S. Route 42 Bridge Replacement
Location: U.S. 42, between SR 89 and Township Road 553
Impact: Single lane closures for a bridge replacement project. Traffic will be maintained using temporary traffic signals. Lane widths will be reduced to 10 feet through the work zone.
New Impacts: Township Road 543 will be closed for 75 days. The detour route is TR 543 to TR 1275 east to TR 593 to U.S. 42, and reverse. Estimated reopening is Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
U.S. Route 42 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement
Project: Conversion of the current two-way stop-controlled intersection into a single-lane roundabout.
Continuing Impacts:
Phase 1 Construction: SR 302 eastbound direction, from U.S. 42 to Township Rd 251/1080 intersection, remains closed for roundabout construction. The U.S. 42 and SR 302 intersection remains open for travel along U.S. 42. Access on SR 302 will be maintained for residents only, who will need to enter from SR 302 westbound.
Detour Route: SR 302 west to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 302, and reverse.
Phase 1 Duration: Approximately from April 2024 to August 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
Interstate 71 Bridge Repairs
Location: Various locations between U.S. 30 and SR 301
Impact: Single lane closures in both directions for bridge repairs. Traffic will be maintained at all times.
Estimated Completion: September 2024
State Route 89 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement
Project: Conversion of the current two-way stop-controlled intersection into a single-lane roundabout.
Continuing Impacts:
Phase 2 Construction: The SR 89 and SR 302 intersection is closed for 60 days to construct the remaining roundabout.
Detour Routes:
Local detour: SR 89 north to U.S. 42 east to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 89, and reverse.
All other motorists: SR 302 west to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 302, and reverse.
Phase 2 Duration: Approximately from June 2024 to August 2024.
Estimated Completion of Phase 2: Friday, August 2, 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
U.S. Route 224 Culvert Replacement
Location: U.S. 224, between Troy Township Road 791 and County Road 681
New Impacts: Closure starting Monday, July 22 for a culvert replacement. The detour route will be U.S. 224 east to SR 511 north to SR 162 east to SR 58 south to U.S. 224, and reverse.
Estimated Completion: Friday, August 2, 2024
Stay informed on these projects to plan your routes accordingly and ensure safe travels through Ashland County during this construction period.
Lorain County, OH – The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office has ramped up efforts to locate Veronica Hayden Dininger, a missing 17-year-old girl last seen in the early hours of July 21, 2024.
Veronica’s mother, Jessica McClellan, made an emotional plea on Facebook to the community, stating, “My daughter, Veronica Hayden Dininger, has been missing since 12:27 a.m. on July 21, 2024. The authorities are involved, and any information on her whereabouts would be greatly appreciated. Please contact the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department or the Village of Wellington Police. She’s 5’3”, with waist-length blonde hair and green eyes, approximately 108 lbs. She was seen in grey sweatpants and a grey or light blue crew neck sweatshirt, with white Nike high tops with a black swoosh. She was last seen leaving our front porch at 12:27 a.m. on Sunday, July 21. We have reason to believe she got into a vehicle with someone at this time. Someone knows something! Thank you everyone for the continued support.”
Lieutenant J. Croston of the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office also issued a statement: “The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information as to the whereabouts of Veronica Dininger. She is a 17-year-old white female who left her residence on July 21, 2024. Veronica was last seen wearing a black t-shirt and black leggings. She is approximately 5’3″ and 108 pounds, with long blonde hair and green eyes. No indications of foul play have been discovered at this time. Anyone with information on her whereabouts can contact the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office at 440-329-3710 or your local law enforcement.”
Authorities urge anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. The community is asked to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or leads. Lorain County Sheriff’s Office at 440-329-3710
COLUMBUS –This week Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 158, legislation to update Cosmetology and Barber Board statues, into law at a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair, announced Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland).
The legislation was introduced by Miller in 2023, and the law will reduce barriers for students getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses. It received unanimous support throughout the legislative process.
“Since the State Boards of Cosmetology and Barbering were combined into one board in 2017, we have seen the need to harmonize the sections of the Ohio Revised Code on Cosmetology and Barbering to match,” said Miller. “I am confident that these and other changes that update our code will serve to encourage the Barber and Cosmetology industry to grow and thrive in Ohio.”
“I’d like to thank my joint sponsor, Rep. Bill Roemer, my colleagues in the Ohio House and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for signing this forward-thinking legislation into law,” said Miller.
Key provisions of the law include:
Creating a unified barbering/cosmetology school license, to eliminate duplicative applications for facilities that teach both cosmetology and barbering.
Enhancing license reciprocity from other states.
Reducing fines for disciplinary actions.
Establishing temporary pre-examination work permits for barbers.
Lowering the age to apply for a barber license or to start barbering school to 16 years of age
Eliminating a requirement that a barber student complete 200 additional hours of training before re-taking the licensing exam.
Preventing the board from charging interest or penalty fees for unpaid fines.
Creating an independent contractor license, eliminating “shop within a shop” licenses
Creating a process to designate a license as “inactive.”
Allowing the board to independently set the passing score for the barber exam, rather than keeping it in statute.