Local News

Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ashland Salvation Army Join Forces for Toy Drive

Spreading Joy this Holiday Season: Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ashland Salvation Army Join Forces for Toy Drive

“PLEASE, WE NEED YOUR HELP! Donations may be dropped off at the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post from November 18th to December 2nd, between 8 AM and 8 PM.

Exciting Announcement: Join us in spreading joy this holiday season in Ashland, Ohio!

The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post and the Ashland Salvation Army Kroc Center have teamed up for a special holiday toy drive!

We kindly ask for your support by donating new and unwrapped toys for children aged 3-5 years old. Let’s make their holidays extra special!

Donations may be dropped off at the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post from November 18th to December 2nd, between 8 AM and 8 PM. In case no one is available, simply press the call button in the lobby and leave your contribution there.

Together, we can make a difference and bring smiles to the faces of local children! Thank you in advance for your generosity. 🙏❤️

#AshlandKroc #kroc #kroccenter #DoingTheMostGood #salvationarmy #saconnects #ashlandkroccenter #krocchristmas #christmasatthekroc #christmasinashland #kroccenterashland #christmasinashlandohio”

Man Barricaded and Arrested at Super 8 in Ashland: A Tense Standoff, Potential Consequences

In the early morning hours, Law Enforcement officers responded to a tense situation at the Super 8 Motel located at 736 U.S. Route 250 in Ashland. Seth Geaslen, a 35-year-old Ashland man with a Felony Bench Warrant for which the original charge was Aggravated Drug Possession, barricaded himself inside a hotel room.

Law Enforcement Officers from the Ashland Sheriff’s Office and the METRICH Drug Enforcement Unit were called to the scene in response to an anonymous tip regarding Geaslen’s whereabouts. With a felony bench warrant hanging over his head, Geaslen made the decision to barricade himself inside the hotel room, refusing to comply with Law Enforcement’s commands.

For nearly an hour, Deputies and Detectives attempted to coax Geaslen out of the room through negotiations. They strived to resolve the situation peacefully, hoping to avoid any unnecessary conflicts. However, despite their efforts, Geaslen remained steadfast in his refusal to surrender.

Facing limited options and concerned for Geaslen’s well-being, Law Enforcement Officers made the difficult decision to forcefully open the hotel room door. With utmost caution and precision, they entered the room to detain Geaslen. In such high-stress situations, with suspects believed to be under the influence of narcotics their primary concern is the safety of all parties involved.

Seth Geaslen, after being taken into custody, now faces potential additional charges related to the incident. The investigation is still ongoing, and the Ashland Sheriff’s Office will determine the appropriate course of action. The consequences of barricading oneself and defying Law Enforcement can be severe, compounding the legal issues already at hand.

During the standoff, Law Enforcement Officers discovered a Chocolate Lab Mix in Geaslen’s hotel room. They promptly reached out to Joe Eggerton, the Ashland County Dog Warden, for assistance. As Eggerton guided the dog out of the Hotel, it suddenly collapsed and experienced a seizure. Eggerton quickly took action, assessing the dog for any injuries and contacting the Claremont Veterinary Clinic for immediate emergency care.

Following the apprehension of Geaslen, METRICH Drug Enforcement Unit Detectives obtained a search warrant to collect evidence from the scene at Super 8. Thorough investigation and evidence collection are crucial steps in building a strong case against individuals involved in criminal activities. The Detectives meticulously combed through the room to gather any pertinent evidence that could further support legal proceedings.

The barricade incident at the Super 8 Motel in Ashland this morning highlights the challenges faced by Law Enforcement Officers and the potential consequences for individuals who choose to defy them. Seth Geaslen’s actions have intensified his legal predicament, and the ongoing investigation will shed more light on the events leading up to this standoff. It is crucial for individuals to understand the implications of their decisions and to comply with Law Enforcement, promoting a safer and more secure community for everyone.

18th annual TubaChristmas at AU to take place Dec. 2

 

ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University’s version of TubaChristmas will be taking place this Saturday, Dec. 2, at Hugo Young Theatre. The concert, featuring traditional holiday favorites, is free and open to the public and will start at noon.

Hundreds, maybe even thousands, of TubaChristmas events take place throughout the world. The first such concert was held in 1974 and now ensembles everywhere take the opportunity to showcase seasonal melodies from tubas, euphoniums, baritones and sousaphones. Saturday’s TubaChristmas will mark the 18th held at Ashland.

Scott Garlock, professor of music at AU, will conduct TubaChristmas and encourages one and all to attend one of “the most unique and fun Christmas sounds that you can sing along with.”

He added, “It’s free, it’s fun and it’s festive.”

For more information, contact Scott Garlock at 419-289-5134 or sgarlock@ashland.edu.

Fugitives of the Week November 27, 2023

Brian MaysBrian Mays Age: 38
White / Male / 5’10” / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of fentanyl.
Ties to Mansfield area.

 

Rafael MartinezRafael Martinez Age: 39
White / Male / 5’8” / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a bond violation on the original charges of trafficking in fentanyl, wanted by the adult parole authority on a parole violation on the original charge of rape.
Ties to Mansfield area.

 

Trenton SchoenmanTrenton Schoenman Age: 23
Black / Male / 5’10’’ / 164lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office a probation violation on the original charges of weapons under disability, tampering with evidence, possession of drugs, and receiving stolen property.
Ties to Mansfield area.

 

David GreeneDavid Greene Age: 38
White / Male / 6’0’ / 140lbs / Brown Hair / Hazel Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of failure to verify address on a sex offense (F1).
Ties to Mansfield and Galion area.

 
 

Reward money is available for information directly leading to an arrest. Anyone with information concerning any of these fugitives can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force office at 419-774-3565 or the tip line at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or you can send a web tip at the following webpage http://www.usmarshals.gov/district/oh-n/index.html.

Tipsters may remain anonymous, and a cash reward may be available. The Task Force’s “Dangerous Dozen” fugitives can be viewed at https://www.usmarshals.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/dangerous-dozen.pdf, which is updated monthly.

The NOVFTF Akron Division consists of the following federal, state and local agencies:

United States Marshals Service, Mansfield Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Richland County Probation, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Bucyrus Police Department, Galion Police Department, Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, Loudonville Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ontario Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Willard Police Department and Crestline Police Department.

Community Foundation Announces 33 Grants for Nonprofits

ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of its recently awarded Community Grants.

The board of trustees approved 33 grants totaling $357,342 for causes ranging from building improvements for nonprofit organizations to children’s concerts for the community.

“Each of these organizations has a plan as to meet needs and improve lives in Ashland County, and we are pleased to partner with them to fund these efforts,” said ACCF Chief Program Officer Kristin Aspin. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the donors who make these grants possible, as well as to the many nonprofit agencies doing great work in our community.”

Grants were awarded to the following organizations to support programs or projects of community-wide benefit:

A Kid Again received a grant to send Ashland County children with life-threatening conditions on adventures with their families.

ACCESS received a grant for a technology initiative to more effectively assist clients.

Adaptive Sports Ohio received a grant to provide Everyone Plays Kits to children with disabilities in Ashland County.

Advocates For Families received a grant to fund building improvements, including heating and cooling units and foundation work.

Ashland Center For Nonviolence at Ashland University received a grant to help bring Rev. Naomi Tutu to Ashland to speak.

Ashland Christian Health Center received a grant for a parking lot expansion project.

Ashland County Cancer Association received a grant to purchase local meat gift cards for cancer patients and their families.

Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League received a capstone grant for electrical equipment and installation at the Historic Homestead Log House.

Ashland Schine’s Theatre Organization received a capstone grant for the renovation of the Green Room Annex and Theatre Connector.

Ashland Soil & Water Conservation District received a grant to improve the parking area at the Hazel Willis Woods, an outdoor educational learning laboratory near Mifflin.

Ashland Special Needs Ministry received a grant to enhance the respite program.

Ashland Symphony Orchestra received a grant to provide a free school day concert for third graders and a free Young People’s Concert for children of all ages and their families.

Associated Charities received a grant to construct a laundry/utility room and restroom in the building’s warehouse area.

Eaglewings received a grant to cover rehab/recovery program fees for local residents and to assist participants with housing and transportation needs.

Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio received a grant to expose Ashland County students to career opportunities and pathways within local Ashland businesses.

Living Waters Outreach Ministry received a grant for materials and labor to replace the building’s roof.

Loudonville Church Women, Inc. received a grant to help families in need by providing free clothing and housewares, Christmas food and toys, and backpacks and school supplies.

Mohican Historical Society received a grant to develop an exhibit that will examine the life and legacy of Johnathan Chapman, also known as Johnny Appleseed.

Old Uniontown Quilt Guild received a grant for materials to provide quilts for local children in foster care.

Pathfinder Farms received a grant to purchase a cargo trailer for use as a remote headquarters during trips away from the farm.

Polk-Jackson-Perry Township Volunteer Fire Department received a grant to purchase CPR mannequins to provide training to the public.

Rape Crisis Domestic Violence Safe Haven received a grant to purchase a new outdoor playset and indoor furniture for use in the shelter.

Rise FM received a grant to help purchase a station vehicle.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio received a grant to support nights of rest and support services for Ashland County families while they are seeking medical care for their child in central Ohio.

Rowsburg Lions Club received a grant to replace the roof at the Rowsburg Community Center.

Southview Grace Brethren Church received a grant for lighting equipment and installation at the Wifflefest field and parking lot.

The Ground Truth Project / Report for America received a grant to help fund the position of a reporter at Ashland Source to cover the Ashland County community.

The Salvation Army received a grant to expand the youth music and performing arts program by providing more scholarships for families and renting The Ashland Theatre.

The Society for Handicapped Citizens of Medina County received a grant for new furniture at The Link Ashland.

United Church Residences of Ashland Ohio received a grant for a community room makeover at Mill Run Place.

Additionally, three organizations received Community Grant distributions in recognition of Hazel Myers Spreng. They include Ashland Public Library, First United Methodist Church and United Way of Ashland County.

ACCF’s Community Grants cycle is made possible by generous donations from our community. With a minimum of $10,000, paid at one time or over a period of five years, donors can create a named, permanently endowed fund designated specifically to support Community Grants.

“Our donors like this type of fund because it gives our foundation’s trusted staff and board members the ability to meet community needs by making grants to great local programs and projects every year, but at the same time, each individual fund can bear the donor’s own name, or the name of an honoree, to creating a lasting legacy,” said Jim Cutright, ACCF President/CEO.

To learn more about how you can join our list of more than 50 donors who have created such funds, contact Ashland County Community Foundation President/CEO Jim Cutright at (419) 281-4733 or cutty@ashlandforgood.org.

For information about our grant opportunities, visit www.ashlandforgood.org/grants.

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 $27 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.

Road Closure Notice – Crider Road

Crider Road, between Koogle Road and State Route 603 in Mifflin Township, will be closed starting Monday, December 4, 2023, for a bridge replacement project.

 

The road is currently scheduled to reopen on July 31, 2024.

The posted detour route will utilize Koogle Road, US Route 30, and

  State Route 603.

 
 
 

Ohio Highway Patrol Releases Thanksgiving Holiday Report

The Ohio Highway Patrol has released the provisional statistics for the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday, revealing a positive decline in fatalities on the state’s roadways.

According to the report, there were a total of seven crashes resulting in the unfortunate loss of eight lives. However, this marks the fewest deaths recorded since 2018 during the Thanksgiving period.

The five-day reporting period, which began on Wednesday, November 22 at midnight and ended on Sunday, November 26 at 11:59 p.m., saw one fatality attributed to the absence of a safety belt. Additionally, impaired driving played a factor in one of the crashes.

During this time, Ohio Highway Patrol troopers were vigilant in enforcing road safety measures, resulting in the arrest of 319 individuals for operating a vehicle while impaired. Furthermore, 111 people were apprehended for illegal drug-related offenses.

The report also highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols, as troopers issued 526 citations for safety belt violations and 181 citations for distracted driving. In a display of dedication to public service, the Ohio Highway Patrol also assisted 1,567 motorists throughout the holiday reporting period.

These statistics reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals traveling on Ohio’s roadways. Continued efforts to enforce traffic regulations, combat impaired driving, and promote responsible behavior are key priorities for the Ohio Highway Patrol.

A statistical analysis of the Patrol’s enforcement activity over the holiday is available here.

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers, drug activity or stranded motorists.

IMPORTANT PRIVACY UPDATE:

Listen up everyone, this is crucial information that you need to be aware of. The Middletown Division of Police recently took to social media to share a vital update regarding your privacy and iPhone usage. If you’re an iPhone user who has recently updated to iOS 17, then you need to pay close attention to this.

Apple has introduced a new feature called NameDrop, which allows for seamless sharing of contact information and photos between iPhones. While this may seem convenient, it’s important to note that this feature comes enabled by default. Yes, that’s right, NameDrop is automatically turned ON, leaving your personal information vulnerable.

Now, here’s what you need to do to protect your privacy. Open your iPhone’s Settings and navigate to the General section. From there, click on AirDrop, followed by Bringing Devices Together. Finally, make sure to switch the feature to OFF. It’s a simple step that can make a world of difference in safeguarding your personal information.

But hold on, parents, this message isn’t just for you. If you have kids with iPhones, it’s crucial that you take a moment to adjust these settings on their devices as well. By doing so, you’ll play an active role in keeping your children safe and secure online.

Remember, privacy is of utmost importance, so let’s take action and protect ourselves and our loved ones. Stay vigilant, folks!

Found Horse

Looking for Owner.

Was found in the area of 250 and 71.

Originally seen on Commerce Parkway believed to be with another horse.

Contact the Ashland Co Sheriff’s Office dispatch 419-289-3911 if he belongs to you.

Wayne County: Troopers Investigate Fatal Crash on State Route 83

Canaan Township – On Friday, November 24th, 2023 at approximately 7:15p.m. the Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was called to the scene of a three-vehicle injury crash on State Route 83 near milepost 20 in Canaan Township of Wayne County.

At this time, the investigation has revealed two of the vehicles were traveling southbound on State Route 83 while the third vehicle was northbound on State Route 83. The two southbound vehicles were identified as a black 2017 Chevrolet Camaro and a red 2020 GMC Acadia. The northbound vehicle was identified as a silver 2024 Honda Odyssey. The Chevrolet Camaro had come into contact with the GMC Acadia, causing it to travel left of center into the northbound lanes. The GMC Acadia was then struck by the Honda Odyssey.

The driver of the Chevrolet Camaro, William M. Floyd, age 48, of Litchfield, Ohio was using a seatbelt at the time of crash. He was transported to Wooster Community Hospital with minor injuries.

The driver of the GMC Acadia, Morgan L. Hoxworth, age 26, of Smithville, Ohio was pronounced deceased at the scene. Mrs. Hoxworth was seatbelted at the time of crash. The passenger of the GMC Acadia, Tyler D. Reber, age 30, of Creston, Ohio was transported to Wooster Community Hospital with suspected injuries. Mr. Reber was also seatbelted at the time of crash.

The driver of the Honda Odyssey, Irebert R. Delgado, age 52, of Olmsted Township, Ohio was seatbelted and uninjured at the time of crash. Two other occupants of the Honda Odyssey were also seatbelted and uninjured.

At this time, the crash remains under investigation. It does appear, however, that alcohol and or drugs are contributing factors to this crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Canaan Township Fire/EMS, Town and Country Fire/EMS, New Pittsburg Fire/EMS, Wooster City Fire/EMS, Bears Towing, and the Wayne County Coroner.

ASHLAND WEATHER