Ashland County Authorities Arrest Local Man in Drug Raid, Seize Methamphetamines and Suspected Fentanyl
In a coordinated operation on Wednesday morning, the Ashland Police Division, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, and SWAT team served a search warrant at 721 Ohio Street in Ashland, Ohio. The raid led to the arrest of 39-year-old Paul Kuhn, who now faces drug charges.
Authorities conducted the raid at approximately 8:00 a.m., executing a search warrant that resulted in the seizure of approximately 23.3 grams of methamphetamine and suspected fentanyl from Kuhn’s residence. The Ashland Police Division has filed a complaint against Kuhn, charging him with aggravated possession of drugs, a second-degree felony under Ohio law.
Kuhn appeared via video for a bond hearing before Magistrate Paul T. Lange of the Ashland County Common Pleas Court. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Matthew C. Metcalf requested a bond of $100,000, recommending conditions should Kuhn be released. These include a surety bond option, travel restrictions, and a mandatory drug and alcohol assessment.
The prosecution argued for these conditions, citing Kuhn’s lengthy criminal history, which includes prior convictions for complicity to felonious assault, burglary, obstructing official business, and other offenses. Court records also reveal previous convictions in Ashland for offenses such as petty theft, criminal trespass, menacing, and disorderly conduct.
Kuhn’s residence in Ashland and criminal record were noted in the prosecution’s argument for a high bond. Assistant Prosecutor Metcalf highlighted concerns regarding community safety, given the substantial quantity of methamphetamine and presence of suspected fentanyl found in Kuhn’s possession.
As the case proceeds, Ashland law enforcement has reiterated their commitment to combating drug activity in the area. The Ashland Police Division encourages residents to report any suspicious activity and assures the community of its continued efforts to address local drug-related crime.
Ashland Police Division has not yet issued a public statement regarding the arrest or the details of the search warrant execution, despite multiple requests.
Ashland Woman Faces Drug Charges Following Police Raid
Ashland, Ohio – Ashland Police Division Officers, and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, along with the SWAT team served a search warrant on the morning of November 6th at 139 1/2 E Liberty Street, leading to the arrest of 35-year-old Tara Preece. Law enforcement executed the warrant around 9:30 a.m., uncovering methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and suspected fentanyl at the residence.
Preece appeared for a virtual bond hearing at 1:30 p.m. before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Paul T. Lange. The hearing addressed a complaint filed by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, detailing a felony charge of aggravated possession of drugs. According to the complaint, Preece is alleged to have knowingly obtained or used a controlled substance, specifically 2.509 grams of methamphetamine, on or about November 6.
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Matthew C. Metcalf recommended that bond be set at $5,000, secured by cash or other assets, and proposed conditions for release. These included requiring Preece to remain within Ohio, undergo a drug and alcohol assessment, and comply with treatment recommendations due to her history of substance-related charges. Metcalf cited previous convictions involving drug offenses, falsification, and failure to appear as additional grounds for the bond terms.
The court was informed that Preece has a prior record, with several drug-related convictions dating back to 2017. In 2021, she was convicted in Ashland of aggravated possession of drugs, adding to similar offenses in 2019 and 2020.
Ashland Police Division has not yet issued a public statement regarding the arrest or the details of the search warrant execution, despite multiple requests.
Ohio State Highway Patrol warns motorists to lookout for deer
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists of the increase in deer-involved crashes during this time of year.
Since 2019, there have been 109,507 deer-involved crashes on Ohio roadways. While 95% of deer-involved crashes only resulted in property damage, 44 crashes were fatal and resulted in 45 deaths. Additionally, from 2019-2023, 47% of these crashes occurred in October, November and December, with 22% occurring in November alone.
“Practicing safe driving habits and staying fully focused on the road increases your chances of spotting deer before it’s too late,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “If you do strike a deer, prioritize your safety by moving to a secure location if possible, turning on your hazard lights and reporting the incident.”
The most crashes involving deer have happened in Stark (3,138), Richland (2,880), Hancock (2,725) and Defiance (2,560) counties. Combined, these four counties accounted for 10% of all deer-involved crashes. Additionally, more than 100 deer-involved crashes have happened in all but one Ohio county since 2019.
Simple tips to avoid an animal collision are: scan the road ahead, use high-beam headlights when able, be extra cautious at dawn and dusk and if a collision is unavoidable, brake – don’t swerve ! stay in your lane.
Motorists are reminded they can safely dial #677 from their mobile device to be connected to the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol Post during a roadway emergency.
Suspicious Package at Former Synagogue in Mansfield Cleared by Authorities
November, 5, 2024, Mansfield, OH — A suspicious package found at 973 Larchwood Road. The property, which previously served as a Jewish synagogue and now operates as the McElvain Group Home for individuals with developmental disabilities, became the focus of heightened concern due to past threats targeting the location.
Around 1:30 p.m., the Mansfield Police Division reached out to the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad for assistance after a potentially dangerous package was discovered on the premises. Authorities explained that given the site’s history of prior threats — including reports of potential gun violence — they were compelled to conduct a thorough investigation.
Mansfield Police emphasized the importance of conducting “due diligence” given the sensitivity of the location and its history. Officers promptly evacuated the area and implemented safety protocols as the bomb squad assessed the package.
Following a careful inspection, authorities confirmed that the item was, in fact, a legitimate package and posed no threat. Law enforcement officials cleared the scene shortly afterward, reassuring community members that the area was safe.
Ashland County Shatters Record with 4,200 Pounds of Donations for Annual “Cram the Cruiser” Food Drive
In a remarkable show of generosity, the residents of Ashland County set a new record during this year’s “Cram the Cruiser” food drive, hosted by the Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol. Held over the weekend, the event saw an incredible response from the community, ultimately collecting a record-breaking 4,200 pounds of food, nearly 1,000 pounds more than last year’s record of 3,420 pounds.
Ohio Highway Patrol Sgt. Kumor, who spoke about the event earlier in the month, had high hopes but remained cautiously optimistic. “We’ll see,” he said at the time. “Ashland residents are a giving community, but we will see.” And the results surpassed expectations, with Ashland residents stepping up in a major way.
The collected donations were delivered Monday morning to Associated Charities / Ashland County Food Bank on Cleveland Ave., where Christine Box, the Executive Director, was on hand to receive the van filled to capacity. Box, reflecting on the annual event’s growth, shared the impressive historical figures:
2018: 2,800 lbs.
2019: 2,380 lbs.
2020: 2,460 lbs.
2021: 3,080 lbs.
2022: 3,280 lbs.
2023: 3,420 lbs.
2024: 4,200 lbs.
Seeing the packed van, Box was taken aback. “I was shocked,” she said. “I actually drove by the post yesterday and thought the van was going to explode! This is incredible. This time of year is our busiest season, and this will sustain us through the holidays and into the start of next year.”
In addition to the food, the community donated over $1,300 in cash, marking a historic level of support. Lieutenant Brad Bishop, Commander of the Ashland Post, expressed deep gratitude for the county’s generosity. “It’s very humbling,” he said. “This outpouring of support from the people of Ashland and seeing it turned around to help those in need is really incredible. I never imagined we’d reach over 4,000 pounds, plus these generous cash donations. Walmart, Associated Charities, and Ashland University’s Criminal Justice Club have all been invaluable partners in making this possible.”
Sgt. Kumor also gave a shoutout to Ohio Highway Patrol retirees who contributed by bringing down vintage patrol cars, adding a nostalgic and festive touch to the event. “People loved seeing the cars and taking pictures with them. It was a lot of fun,” he said.
As the Ashland community reflects on this year’s record-breaking achievement, the lasting impact of the donations will be felt into 2025, providing vital support to families in need.
17-Year-Old Driver Charged with OVI in Ashland County Rollover Crash
Mifflin, OH — A 17-year-old male has been charged with Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI), Child Endangerment, Fail to Control, following a late-night crash. The incident took place around 10:26 PM on 11 Main Street in Mifflin when the driver lost control of his 2014 Hyundai Veloster, which veered off the roadway, crashed down an embankment, and came to a stop against a tree, causing severe damage to the vehicle.
According to Ohio State Highway Patrol, the 17-year-old was driving westbound on Ashland County Road 30A when the car went off the right side of the road, rolling over before stopping halfway down the embankment. The impact was so severe that it nearly tore the engine from the Hyundai.
The young driver had two passengers on board: 18-year-old Lakisha Hall and a 3-year-old child, whose names have not been released.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Mifflin Fire Department, and EMS units from Hayesville and Richland County Mifflin Township, quickly responded to the scene.
The three occupants were transported to Mansfield Ohio-Health Hospital, where they were treated for what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.
Due to the vehicle’s precarious position down the embankment, Aber’s Towing & Crane Service was called to the scene. They used a specialized rotator crane to carefully lift the damaged vehicle from the ravine.
The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially when transporting passengers.
Press Release:
Troopers Investigating Serious Injury Crash
Village of Mifflin – On Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at approximately 10:26 PM, a 2014 Hyundai Veloster was traveling westbound on Maine St. when it ran off of the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.
The operator of the Hyundai is a 17 year old juvenile male, and was transported to Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital with minor injuries by Mifflin Fire and EMS. A female passenger, Lakisha Hall 18 years old, from Mansfield, Ohio was transported to Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital by Mifflin Fire & EMS with serious non-life threatening injuries. Ms. Hall’s 3 year old daughter was also transported to Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital with minor injuries by Mifflin Fire & EMS. All three occupants of the vehicle were wearing proper safety belt equipment at the time of the crash.
Speed and alcohol are factors in the crash, and the crash is still currently under investigation.
Assisting at the scene were: The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Mifflin Fire and EMS, and Aber’s Towing. The roadway was closed for approximately 2 hours.
Single-Vehicle Rollover Accident on US Route 42 Sends One to Hospital
Ashland County, OH – Emergency responders were called to the scene of a single-vehicle rollover accident on U.S. Route 42 at 5:47 p.m. this evening. The Ohio Highway Patrol, along with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Police Division, and Ashland Fire Department & EMS, responded to the incident, which occurred near State Route 511.
The driver, 61-year-old Teresa Bates of Ashland, was operating a 2022 Hyundai Accent southbound on U.S. Route 42. According to the Ohio Highway Patrol, Bates veered off the right side of the highway, striking an embankment. The impact caused her vehicle to roll over and come to rest at the bottom of a ravine.
Ashland Firefighters used mechanical means to extricate Bates.
Ashland EMS personnel transported Bates to Ohio-Health Mansfield Hospital, her injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.
Troopers do not believe drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.
The Ohio Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Record-Breaking Turnout at Ashland Main Street’s Annual Costume Capers
ASHLAND, OHIO — A lively crowd of goblins, ghouls, and costumed families took over Ashland’s Main Street for the annual Costume Capers event, marking the largest turnout yet for the beloved Halloween celebration. Local businesses and community leaders came out in force, with storefronts decorated, candy at the ready, and costumes ranging from spooky to silly as they welcomed visitors of all ages to this family-friendly affair.
With classic characters, pirates, and creatures galore, the scene buzzed with excitement. Captain Jack Sparrow was spotted weaving his way down Main Street, bottle in hand, much to the amusement of children dressed as their own favorite heroes and monsters. Local businesses lined the sidewalks to hand out candy, while costumed kids and adults added to the festive atmosphere, with more ghosts and goblins than could be counted.
Ashland’s own Mayor Matt Miller and his wife, State Representative Melanie Miller, got in on the fun, joining community groups like the Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol, the Ashland Public Library, and even the Ashland Fire Department to hand out treats. Chief of the Ashland Police Division Dave Lay and his wife also joined in, adding to the sense of camaraderie as city officials and citizens mingled in the spirit of the season. The Ashland University students brought extra excitement, leading candy-fueled games like basketball shootouts and arm-wrestling contests, while The Salvation Army Kroc Community Center kept smiles wide with its candy-filled festivities.
Not far away on South Street, Substance Church hosted its popular Fall Fest, offering free hot dogs and other treats to passersby, while the Ashland Board of Realtors’ haunted house provided a thrilling walk-through experience for families.
Ashland Main Street Executive Director Sandra Hedlund Tunnell celebrated the record-breaking success, noting, “We were thrilled to see so many families downtown participating in Costume Capers this year. From businesses to community groups, everyone brought their best to make this a memorable night. It’s exciting to see how much this event has grown year after year.”
Mayor Matt Miller was equally pleased, sharing his pride in the community’s spirit: “It’s a tremendous joy to see such a diverse crowd filling Main Street, celebrating and connecting with one another. This event truly embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Ashland.”
State Representative Melanie Miller added her own reflections, sharing, “It was a beautiful evening to see so many families taking part in Ashland’s tradition of Costume Capers. Thanks to our Main Street business owners and community organizations, we created a memorable experience for countless children and families.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the mayor credited Ashland’s famed fall decorations and the “Pumpkin People” for drawing record numbers and positive community buzz. “Ashland is on the rise,” he remarked with a smile.
Costume Capers was just the beginning of Halloween fun for Ashland, as the city-wide Trick-or-Treat event will kick off tomorrow from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., rain or shine. As the community reflects on the success of this year’s Costume Capers, it’s clear that Ashland is building a legacy of family-friendly celebrations for all to enjoy.
Shop With A Cop Event Brings Big Smiles to Ashland County Children
Ashland, OH – Local law enforcement agencies in Ashland County are gearing up for the annual “Shop With A Cop” event, a holiday tradition that helps spread Christmas cheer to children in need across the community. Ashland Division of Police Detective Kara Pearce announced the dates for both the Shop With A Cop event and the popular silent auction fundraiser that supports it.
The silent auction will be held on November 17, 2024, from 1 PM to 4 PM at O’Bryan’s Pub, 1065 Claremont Avenue. Guests can participate in bidding wars for items generously donated by local businesses and community members—all for a great cause. As a bonus, attendees can catch the Cleveland Browns game on the big screen while bidding and supporting a beloved community event.
Then, in December 2024, officers from several local law enforcement agencies will gather at the Ashland Wal-Mart to accompany children on their holiday shopping sprees. Officers from the Ashland Division of Police, Ashland Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Highway Patrol, Mifflin Police, Loudonville Police, and Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Rangers, along with Ashland County First Responders, like Ashland Fire Department & EMS and Dispatchers will be on hand, making sure each child has an unforgettable holiday experience.
Detective Pearce shared her enthusiasm for the event, saying, “Our silent auction is on November 17th, and the shopping event will be in December this year, we’ll be spacing out times for the children to make sure everyone has a memorable and comfortable experience.” She emphasized that the officers and community members involved are excited to make this holiday season special for each child.
The annual Shop With A Cop event is a cherished local tradition, one that brightens the holidays for families and fosters connections between law enforcement and the community. This is truly one of the most anticipated events of the year in Ashland County, bringing warmth, joy, and countless smiles to those who need it most.
If you know or want to add that if a family is in need you can call Associated Charities at (419) 281-6061
Joe Lyons •
November 7, 2024
