Ashland, OH – On May 10th, 2024, Ashland Detectives, in collaboration with the METRICH Enforcement Unit, conducted a search warrant at 512 Ray Ave as part of an ongoing drug investigation. The operation, supported by the Ashland Special Response Team, resulted in the arrest of Ryan Flickinger and the seizure of suspected illegal drugs and firearms.
The investigation, prompted by intelligence gathering, reflects law enforcement’s commitment to addressing drug-related concerns within the community. Following Flickinger’s arrest, he was placed in custody at the Ashland County Jail, pending further legal proceedings. The case is currently under review by the Ashland County Prosecutor.
Authorities expressed appreciation for community cooperation, encouraging residents to continue reporting suspected drug activities through the METRICH Crime Tip Hotline at 419-52-CRIME (419-522-7463) or via the METRICH Enforcement Unit mobile app.
For further inquiries, Detective Kody Hying can be reached at 419-289-3639 ext. 1039 or via email at hying.kody@ashland-ohio.com.
The successful execution of the search warrant highlights law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland residents.
ASHLAND COUNTY – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has released the anticipated construction projects affecting highways in Ashland County for the upcoming week. All outlined work is contingent upon weather conditions and is subject to change.
New Construction Impacts:
State Route 89 Culvert Replacement: Commencing Monday, May 20, State Route 89, spanning between Glenn Street and Perry Township Road 395, will undergo closure for the replacement of two culverts. The designated detour route will redirect traffic northbound on State Route 89 to U.S. Route 30 west, leading to State Route 60 north, then onto U.S. Route 42 north to U.S. Route 250 east, eventually reconnecting with State Route 89. Estimated completion of this project is slated for Friday, June 7, 2024.
Continuing Construction Impacts:
U.S. Route 42 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement: The ongoing transformation of the U.S. Route 42 and State Route 302 intersection into a single-lane roundabout continues to affect traffic flow. State Route 302 eastbound, stretching from U.S. Route 42 to Township Rd 251/1080 intersection, remains closed to facilitate construction. However, the intersection at U.S. Route 42 and State Route 302 remains accessible for motorists. During this phase, access along State Route 302 is reserved exclusively for residents and emergency personnel, with entry permitted solely from State Route 302 westbound. The designated detour for other motorists redirects traffic westward on State Route 302, leading to State Route 301 north, then U.S. Route 224 west, followed by State Route 58 south, eventually reconvening with State Route 302. Phase one of this project is expected to persist from April 2024 until June 2024, with the entire project estimated for completion in October 2024.
State Route 89 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement: Similar to the U.S. Route 42 and State Route 302 intersection project, the conversion of the State Route 89 and State Route 302 intersection into a single-lane roundabout is underway. State Route 302 eastbound, from State Route 89 to U.S. Route 42 intersection, is closed to facilitate construction. Nevertheless, access along State Route 89 is maintained for motorists, while access on State Route 302 is restricted to residents and emergency personnel, who must enter from State Route 302 westbound. The designated detour for non-resident motorists follows the same route as the U.S. Route 42 and State Route 302 intersection project. Phase one of this project is anticipated to last from April 2024 until June 2024, with the entire project scheduled for completion in October 2024.
As motorists navigate through these construction zones, patience and adherence to designated detour routes are encouraged to ensure the safety of all travelers and construction crews. ODOT advises drivers to remain vigilant and follow all posted signage and instructions.
For further updates and additional information regarding these construction projects, individuals are advised to consult the Ohio Department of Transportation’s official website.
Jeromesville, Ohio – The Village of Jeromesville woke up to unsettling news as two local businesses, Fickes Furniture on North High Street and the American Legion on Huron Street, were reported to have been burglarized overnight.
According to Chief Deputy David Blake of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Fickes Furniture suffered damage to their safe but reported minimal loss. The American Legion, however, had an undisclosed amount of cash stolen from their ATM and other machines.
Chief Deputy Blake asked to residents for any information that could aid the investigation, including surveillance footage from Ring Cameras or other sources capturing activity in the area. Those with relevant information were urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 419-289-3911.
Jeromesville Mayor Randy Spade expressed concern for the affected businesses, emphasizing the impact on the local community. “These are small business owners,” Mayor Spade stated, “and it’s disheartening to see them targeted.” He also expressed disappointment at the lack of respect shown towards the American Legion, an institution serving veterans.
As authorities continue their investigation, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of community cooperation in maintaining the safety and security of Jeromesville.
Residents and commuters in Ruggles Township, Ashland County, should prepare for a temporary disruption in travel as the CSX Railway crossing undergoes rehabilitation work. Kelly Hickey, Administrative Assistant/Safety at the Ashland County Engineer’s Office, announced today that the crossing located on Township Road 126, County Road 1181, and Township Road 1101 will be closed for a period of five days, beginning Monday, May 13th, and ending on Friday, May 17th.
The rehabilitation work is essential for maintaining the safety and integrity of the railway crossing, ensuring smooth and reliable transportation for both road and rail users. During the closure period, alternative routes should be planned, and drivers are advised to follow detour signs and instructions to navigate around the closed crossing.
It is anticipated that the railway crossing will reopen to traffic by the end of the day on Friday, May 17th, allowing normal travel to resume along the affected roads. However, residents and commuters are encouraged to stay updated on any changes or delays by contacting CSX Railroad directly at (800) 232-0144.
Perrysville, OH – On Sunday, June 16, Pleasant Hill Lake Park will again host hundreds of athletes from around the area and the State of Ohio for the Pleasant Valley Triathlon, Duathlon & Aquabike.
Athletes will swim up to 1500 meters in Pleasant Hill Lake, bike up to 25 miles through Ashland and Richland counties around the park, and end with a run inside the park. There are multiple distances athletes will participate in from the beginner-friendly super sprint (mini) distance to an Olympic distance. Each exciting distance will start and end at Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
The Pleasant Valley Triathlon is organized by Columbus-based event organizer, HFP Racing and is owned and operated by 1984 Lucas High School graduate, Craig Thompson.
The event is open to the public for participation.
Please be advised there will be bicyclists on the roads surrounding the park and in the Mohican area on Sunday morning, June 16th, 2024.
More information, volunteer opportunities and event registration are located at: https://hfpracing.com/race/pleasant-valley-triathlon-duathlon-aquabike/
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Anthony Alexander. Alexander is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of possession drugs. Alexander, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Alexander has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Marion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive David Greene. Greene is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a fail to verify address as a sex offender. Greene, 39, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Greene has ties to the city of Mansfield and Galion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Nestor Salazar. Salazar is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs. Salazar, 34, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Salazar has ties to the cities of Willard and Columbus.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Fox. Fox is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of drugs. Fox, 54, is described as a white male with gray hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet, 4 inches tall. Fox has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Bellville.
If you have any information in reference to David Greene, Anthony Alexander, Nestor Salazar, or Timothy Fox, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is bringing awareness to the potential increase of motorcycles on our roadways. May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol would like to remind motorcyclists to ride trained and sober.
From 2019 to 2023, there were 19,544 traffic crashes involving motorcycles resulting in the death of 1,045 motorcyclists and 12 others. Another 5,770 motorcyclists were injured. Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, Summit and Lucas counties accounted for 32 percent of the motorcycle crashes in Ohio.
“Motorcycle safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re on two wheels or four, awareness and respect for fellow motorists are key to ensuring safe travels for everyone,” said Governor Mike DeWine.
Taking a training class, wearing safety equipment and riding with proper endorsements will help you protect yourself and others. During the same time period, 50 percent of at-fault motorcycle drivers involved in crashes did not have a motorcycle license endorsement.
“This is the season for both motorcyclists and motor vehicle drivers to consider the unique traffic safety challenges as more motorcyclists take to the roads with the warmer weather,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Whether your chosen mode of transportation is a motorcycle or a motor vehicle, everyone has a part in safe motorcycling. As a motorcyclist, make sure you have a valid motorcycle endorsement, quality motorcycle training and proper safety equipment. Also, remember to always ride sober. As a motorist, be aware that there are more motorcycles on the roads, and focus your attention on their surroundings when driving on Ohio’s roadways.”
Ohio law requires helmets for riders under 18 and riders with less than one year of motorcycle experience. Passengers on motorcycles must wear helmets when the driver is required to do so.
For more information visit www.motorcycle.ohio.gov.
Cutting-Edge Facility Offers Digital Simulation Training and Luxurious Amenities
Ashland, Ohio – Mayor Matt Miller, alongside a diverse crowd, celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of Ohio’s newest all digital indoor shooting range, Hot Shots Shooting Center. Positioned as the state’s premier destination for shooting enthusiasts, the center boasts state-of-the-art digital infrastructure and an array of amenities.
Central to Hot Shots’ offerings is its interactive simulation training software, providing an immersive experience for law enforcement personnel and CCW license holders. Equipped with cutting-edge equipment, the facility aims to elevate training standards and enhance skills in a controlled indoor environment.
One standout feature is the exclusive lounge accessible to members, complete with a poker table, large-screen TV, and plush furniture. Plans are in place to utilize this space for future in-house events, promising a blend of recreation and camaraderie for patrons.
Operating hours cater to different schedules, with Hot Shots open Tuesday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. This flexibility ensures accessibility for enthusiasts of all levels.
The facility houses four rooms dedicated to MILO simulations, with plans for expansion, including a theater-style room with three large screens for a heightened immersive experience. Hot Shots offers a selection of handgun options, including Glock 17 and 19 models, and two styles of the SIG Sauer P320, favored by law enforcement and CCW license holders. Additionally, training on defense tactics with mace or a Taser, as well as AR-15s, is available.
Monthly CCW courses, led by licensed instructor Doug Murillo of Action Defense LLC, are among the center’s regular offerings. Murillo’s credentials through the National Rifle Association and the U.S. Concealed Carry Association emphasize the commitment to professional instruction and safety standards.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at 2112 S. Baney Road, saw the attendance of Ashland city and county elected officials, alongside esteemed guests, marking the official launch of Hot Shots Shooting Center as a important addition to Ohio’s firearms training landscape.
Ashland Police Division Officers along with Ashland Fire Department & EMS responded to a two-vehicle collision around 2:30 PM. In what was believed to be cause by an medical emergency.
Both drivers involved were taken to UH Samaritan Medical Center for treatment by Ashland EMS.
Following the initial collision, a Red Cross van collided with a Jeep, causing minor damage.
The security cameras at Ashland Drive-Thru on 1032 E Main St captured the first incident on video, which was obtained by Ashland County Pictures.
Joe Lyons •
May 13, 2024
Jeromesville, Ohio – The Village of Jeromesville woke up to unsettling news as two local businesses, Fickes Furniture on North High Street and the American Legion on Huron Street, were reported to have been burglarized overnight.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Anthony Alexander. Alexander is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of possession drugs. Alexander, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Alexander has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Marion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Fox. Fox is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of drugs. Fox, 54, is described as a white male with gray hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet, 4 inches tall. Fox has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Bellville.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is bringing awareness to the potential increase of motorcycles on our roadways. May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol would like to remind motorcyclists to ride trained and sober.
