(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— today announced that more than 100 pardons have been granted as part of the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project.
Launched in 2019, Governor DeWine created the project to simplify and expedite the lengthy pardon application process for certain rehabilitated citizens who have consistently demonstrated that they’ve become law-abiding, contributing members of society in the years since their convictions.
As of today, 108 individuals have received expedited pardons through this unique program. The Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project eliminates administrative hurdles in the complex pardon application process and provides free one-on-one support from partnering law schools in Ohio. Pardon requests submitted through the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project are also fast-tracked for consideration by the Ohio Parole Board and, ultimately, the governor.
“Those who’ve transformed their lives after a criminal conviction deserve an opportunity to live up to their God-given potential,” said Governor DeWine. “The pardons I’ve had the privilege of issuing as part of this program affirm the positive changes that the recipients have made in their post-conviction lives and allow them to let go of the mistakes that have been holding them back.”
Benefits of a pardon include expanded career, education, and volunteer opportunities.
Initially launched in partnership with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Drug Enforcement and Policy Center, and the University of Akron School of Law, the program expanded in 2021 to also include higher education support from Cleveland State University Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, the University of Dayton School of Law, and the Ohio Justice & Policy Center in partnership with the University of Cincinnati College of Law.
“The pardon applicants are so appreciative of the legal assistance they receive with navigating the application process and the pardon hearing,” said Joann Sahl, assistant director of the legal clinic at the University of Akron School of Law. “Many of the applicants report that they would not have finished the process without the help.”
Since 2019, 327 applicants have met the criteria to participate in the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project with around 200 cases currently in various stages of the application process.
“Anyone who meets the criteria and has become a productive member of their community should consider pursuing a pardon now that this program creates an expedited pathway,” said Doug Berman, executive director of The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Drug Enforcement and Policy Center.
Among the 108 individuals who’ve received a pardon through the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project are Gene Hill of Miami County and Carla Thomas of Summit County.
“When I received my pardon, I cried like a baby,” said Hill. “It’s up there with the birth of my children and my daughter being valedictorian of her class. It’s a phenomenal feeling.”
“In the letters I wrote to the Governor, I asked for grace,” said Thomas. “I’ve accomplished so many things, but I was living with a black cloud over my head. To get a pardon after two decades feels amazing. I have a second shot at life now.”
To be accepted into the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project, applicants must meet various program requirements. Those who do not qualify for the program may still apply for a pardon through the traditional application route.
Since the creation of the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project, Ohio law has changed to allow the governor to automatically seal the records of those who have received a pardon. Anyone pardoned before September 2021 can also take steps to have their record sealed.
For more information on the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project, including how to apply and minimum eligibility requirements, visit ohioexpeditedpardon.org.
Experience the Joy of Welcoming a Furry Friend into the Fire Department
In an exciting turn of events, Chief Brandon R Mosher of the Polk Jackson Perry Fire District station has recently announced the addition of a new member to their team. However, this recruit is unlike any other firefighter you may expect. Polk Jackson Perry Fire District has opened its doors to its first foster dog, an adorable one-year-old Black Lab named Scarlet. This incredible initiative has been made possible through a collaboration with Service Dog United (SDU), who will be providing Scarlet’s training, food, and veterinary care.
Let’s explore how this innovative pilot program is set to make a positive impact on both the fire department and the community.
Scarlet: The New Service Dog in Training
Chief Mosher is thrilled about Scarlet’s arrival, expressing, “Scarlet is an amazing dog and will be a great addition to our growing department.” As a service dog in training, Scarlet will reside full-time at the fire station with the on-duty crew, while simultaneously undergoing specialized training to become a proficient service dog. Polk Firefighters will be responsible for caring for Scarlet on a daily basis, ensuring her well-being and continued training, while Service Dog United oversees her overall development.
Supporting Veterans, First Responders, and Gold Star Families
The foster care program implemented by the Polk Jackson Perry Fire District serves a vital purpose in caring for service dogs during their transitional period before being placed with veterans, first responders, or gold star families. This unique initiative not only lends a helping hand to the fire department but also extends invaluable support to Service Dog United. By acting as foster parents to these exceptional animals, firefighters play a crucial role in their development and preparation for their important future roles.
Scarlet and Her Public Presence
It’s no secret that Scarlet is enjoying all the attention she is receiving at the fire station. In addition to her training, Scarlet will accompany firefighters to various public education events, fostering a positive relationship between the fire department and the community. Be it teaching fire safety or engaging in community outreach programs, Scarlet will serve as an ambassador of goodwill, leaving a lasting impression on those she encounters.
Firefighter Training and Scarlet’s Special Needs
Firefighters at the Polk Jackson Perry Fire District are currently undergoing training to understand Scarlet’s specific needs and requirements. This training enables them to provide the best possible care for her and continue her training seamlessly. With a dedicated focus on Scarlet’s well-being, firefighters are committed to embracing this new responsibility wholeheartedly.
The Benefits of the Foster Program
The foster program is a commendable addition to the fire department, bringing forth a multitude of advantages for both Polk Firefighters and Service Dog United. Not only does it offer an opportunity for firefighters to contribute to their community in a unique way, but it also ensures the smooth transition and development of service dogs before they embark on their life-changing journeys. Additionally, the presence of Scarlet and her fellow foster dogs adds a touch of warmth and companionship to the fire station, creating a positive environment for all.
Welcoming Scarlet, the Black Lab, as the newest member of the Polk Jackson Perry Fire District is a significant step toward providing support not only to veterans, first responders, and gold star families but also to Service Dog United. This pilot foster program showcases the fire department’s commitment to making a difference in their community and beyond. As Scarlet continues her training and grows alongside the firefighters, her impact will undoubtedly be felt far and wide. So, next time you visit the Polk Fire Station, don’t be surprised to be greeted by Scarlet’s wagging tail and infectious enthusiasm.
ASHLAND, OH – State Representative Melanie Miller has officially filed to run for re-election for her second term in Ohio House District 67. Her office represents both Ashland County and western portion of Medina County. Miller was first elected in 2022, where she first won by 32 points in a three-way primary. She went on to win the general election by over 40 points.
“I want to ensure that Ashland and Medina Counties have a strong, influential voice in Columbus. That is why today, I filed petitions to continue working for our local communities and families in the state legislature,” said Representative Miller. “It’s an honor and privilege to serve my constituents of the 67th District, and I look forward to being their voice as we work to lower taxes, protect our children, and make Ohio a safer and better place to live.”
Representative Miller has a Bachelor of Arts from Cleveland State University. A recipient of the Ashland County Women of Achievement Award and a graduate of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Ashland program, Melanie is also a Northern Medina County Chamber Alliance member. Melanie serves on the Economic and Workforce Development Committee along with three other committee assignments. She and her husband, Matt, have been married for 16 years, and he currently serves as the Mayor of the City of Ashland.
Ashland, Ohio – Earlier this morning, members of the United States Marshals Service Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Zykeshalla Murphy, 32. Murphy was wanted by the Killeen, Texas Police Department for murder.
Murphy and another male were wanted in connection to a May 2014 murder that took place in Killeen, Texas. A warrant for Murphy’s arrest was issued four days ago and members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in Texas begin working the investigation into the whereabouts of Murphy.
Investigators found that Murphy was currently on bond for a petty theft in Ashland, Ohio. Members of the NOVFTF were able to locate Murphy and arrest her without incident at a home in the 800 block of Ohio Ave. in Ashland.
Zykeshalla Murphy
Murphy was booked into the Ashland County Jail and will remain there until she can be extradited back to Texas to answer for the charges against her.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “This fugitive may have thought she would be able to run from justice forever, but dedicated officers in Texas made sure this case didn’t go unsolved. The U.S. Marshals Service will ensure that when fugitives are identified they are arrested as quickly as possible to keep our communities across the country safe.”
Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous. Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland
Alright, here is the latest update, let me assure you that this fur baby is proving to be one tough cookie.
According to the Humane Society of Ashland County Ohio, our four-legged friend is currently in stable, albeit guarded, condition, receiving the best care possible. The diligent folks at Claremont Veterinary Clinic deserve a round of applause for successfully bringing up his temperature as he was suffering from hypothermia. Kudos to them!
Now, let’s talk about the superheroes behind this rescue mission — the Humane Society of Ashland County Ohio, an organization run by a team of dedicated volunteers. They are the ones handling this case, stepping up to the challenge without hesitation.
However, if the owner doesn’t show up (fingers crossed that they do!), there will be expenses involved. That’s why we need your help, folks! If you’re feeling generous and want to make a difference, head on over to https://www.ashlandhumane.org and consider making a donation.
These fantastic humanitarians are entirely dependent on volunteers like you, and they could use a couple more helping hands. So, come on, let’s lend a paw!
Transcriber Amy Johnson 20th year with the City of Mansfield. She has worked diligently in her position with a remarkable way of always having a positive and pleasant attitude. Her incredible ability to handle the ever-increasing work-load in combination with her attention to deadlines is just one example of her contribution to Division success.
In 2023 Amy has transcribed 33,545 pages, 1,287,484 words, 127 hours and 48 minutes. In addition to this she has completed more than 100 requests for the prosecutor’s office, and helped solve numerous digital issues. To put that into perspective: there is on average 260 work days a year, which means that Amy averaged over 2 transcriptions a day for each of her work days. That’s almost 5,000 words a day
Amy has been and continues to be an absolute asset to the Division. I am proud to announce the two thousand twenty-three Civilian of the Year is, Amy Johnson.
Detective of the Year:
Detective Larry Schacherer Detective Schacherer has had a busy year. He has been the lead detective on several Homicides with one being solved and an arrest being made all while continuing to identify suspects and make arrests in the others. He also investigated a felonious assault that happened as two cars sped throughout the city with one firing rounds into the other vehicle hitting a person inside.
Detective Schacherer spent a lot of time and resources tracking down witnesses and verifying stories to get to the truth, resulting in the suspect being convicted and sentenced to 36 years in prison. After countless hours of hard work on another Attempted Murder case, Detective Schacherer was able to get the suspect convicted with a 16-21-year prison sentence.
Detective Schacherer is always available to answer the call if a Major Crime comes in and to help other Detectives if they happen to get the case. He will step up and help Patrol when needed using these instances as a teaching moment enhancing patrol capabilities in the process. In addition to his investigative work, Detective Schacherer is a member of the divisions UAS and the Motor Cycle units.
Detectives Schacherers hard work, tireless effort and drive to find justice for the cases he investigates reflects greatly on his professionalism and dedication to the citizens of Mansfield. I am proud to announce that the two thousand twenty-three Mansfield Division of Police Detective of the Year is, Larry Schacherer.
Supervisor of the Year: Sergeant Joseph Soehnlen
Sergeant Soehnlen has been a Division leader for more than 6 years. He is an integral part of the departmental firearms training, and is creative with keeping officers “on their toes”, creating a firearms training program that placed officers in high stress situations preparing them for a lethal encounter should that day come. Sergeant Soehnlen is a division armorer and spends countless hours making certain that the officers have the necessary equipment to assist them in their daily duties; completing year end inventories, conducting research, and working on the timely purchases of new and necessary equipment.
Sergeant Soehnlen spent ten years of his career as an ASORT operator and sniper. Even after leaving the team he leads training and proficiency testing for the precision marksmen of not only ASORT but other agencies throughout North Central Ohio. Sergeant Soehnlen is a member of the Division Honor Guard, taking seriously his role in honoring fallen officers, while supporting the fallen officers’ departments, and their families during those tragic times.
Sergeant Soehnlen is a Field Training Officer supervisor taking on the responsibility of making sure the FTO’s and their “cubs” are navigating through the field training program as intended; assisting with their training while incorporating corrective action, or words of encouragement.
Sergeant Soehnlen is considered a friend to many due to his easygoing nature, but will act when necessary to address an issue with an officer, and problem solve to come up with the best solution. Sergeant Soehnlen is consistent, reliable, and always maintains a positive attitude. I am proud to announce that the two thousand twenty-three Supervisor of the Year is, Joseph Soehnlen.
Officer of the Year: Officer Justin Cikity
Since 2015 this Officer Cikity has served in the Community Services Bureau patrol section. In 2023, Officer Cikity distinguished himself as an unspoken leader on his shift, consistently assisting other officers. Officer Cikity serves as a background investigator and a member of the Divisions Recruitment Team. Several of Officers Cikitys investigations and self-initiated calls for service have led to serious felony charges where he worked with Major Crimes detectives to further the investigations and secure convictions.
Officer Cikitys efforts during the year have far reaching impact in the overall quality of police service provided to the citizens of Mansfield. Officer Cikity was not only nominated by his supervisors for Officer of the Year but also by other officers on his shift. One young officer submitted an Officer of the year nomination for Officer Cikity calling him. “a supervisor on the road for this shift.” The officer also detailed how Officer Cikity is always willing to help younger officers and strives to make them the best they can be. Officer Cikity displays a passion for the profession that is evident not just in word but in his actions. For his commitment to the Citizens of Mansfield, the Division of Police, and the other officers he works with, I am proud to announce the two thousand twenty-three Mansfield Division of Police Officer of the Year is, Justin Cikity.
Troy Township – Troopers from the Ashland Highway Patrol Post are investigating a fatal crash which occurred on State Route 511, near Township Road 350, in Ashland County, Ohio.
On Monday, December 18, 2023 at approximately 1441 hours, a 2000 Ford Taurus driven by Timothy W. Anderson, age 65, of Nova, Ohio was south bound on State Route 511. A 2013 Chevy van driven by Curt Mechling, age 54, of Ashland, Ohio was north bound on State Route 511.
The Ford Taurus drove left of center and struck the Chevy van. Both vehicles came to rest in the Northbound lane of State Route 511.
Mr. Anderson was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Mr. Mechling was transported to Ohio Health Mansfield with non-life-threatening injuries.
State Route 511 was closed for approximately two hours while the scene was investigated.
Other agencies assisting at the crash scene were: Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Firelands EMS, Ruggles-Troy Fire Department, Savannah Fire Department, and the Ashland County Coroner’s Office.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Earl Whipple. Whipple is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Whipple, 49, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Whipple has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Shelby Ohio, and High Springs Florida.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Matthew Hively. Hively is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs. Hively, 44, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall. Hively has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Flores, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley NV.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Derrick Taylor. Taylor is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of felonious assault. Harris, 45, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall. Harris has ties to the citie of Ashland, Baltic, and Galion.
If you have any information in reference to Rafael Martinez, Trenton Schoenman, David Greene, or Brian Mays, 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.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff E. Wayne Risner has just Issues a Level 1 Snow Emergency for Ashland County
LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways
Level 3: Snow Emergency, all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. ODOT says no one should drive during these condition unless absolutely necessary or in the case of a personal emergency. Individuals should call their employers to see if they should report to work
Paula Clevidence sat in her charming country kitchen, with 27-year-old faded photographs spread out on the kitchen table. It had been twenty-seven long years since her daughter, Mindy, born on October 15, 1978, had gone missing. The pain still gnaws at her heart every single day. In this moment of solitude, Paula allowed herself to remember both the happy times and the sad times before her world had been shattered.
But Paula didn’t want to drown in sorrow. She wanted to remember the joy Mindy had brought into their lives. The image of a vibrant, happy little girl formed in her mind. “Mindy was always full of life,” Paula reminisced, a tiny smile tugging at the corners of her lips. “We lived on a farm back then, and she was always outside, playing with her three sisters. We had animals for the fair, and Mindy loved her market steers. And oh, how she adored her kitty cats! She had a little favorite cat that she carried everywhere.”
Life was good for Mindy. Her days were filled with laughter, sketching beautiful drawings, and mesmerizing everyone with her sweet melodies. Paula’s eyes filled with fresh tears as she remembered how Mindy passionately memorized scripture verses for the Awana Club meetings. “She was so excited about earning those badges,” Paula whispered, a bittersweet ache tightening in her chest.
A Turn for the Worse
Then, like the shifting winds, difficulties started creeping into their lives. Mindy was ten when her sister, began facing severe health issues. Paula’s heart ached at the memory. “It was tough for Mindy because a lot of attention was focused on her sister,” she explained, her voice tinged with regret. “It wasn’t easy for her during that time.”
As the family moved to Loudonville, tensions rose, and the once-harmonious home became a battlefield of emotions. Mindy was seventeen, and her discontent grew, causing strains in their relationship. “I tried my best to reach out to her,” Paula murmured, her voice heavy with unspoken guilt. “But everything felt like a constant battle. Mindy stole my car, got into trouble at school. I wanted to help her, to guide her. I pleaded with her, telling her that we can work through her problems together. But it just didn’t happen.”
Mindy Disappeared
In the summer/fall of 1995, things took a devastating turn. A desperate decision was made, and Mindy was sent to a group home in Dayton, hoping it would provide her with the help she needed. That was the last time Paula saw her daughter’s face, heard her laughter, or felt her tender embrace. It all slipped away, leaving behind an agonizing void in Paula’s heart.
Paula vividly recalled the day her daughter disappeared. “She just disappeared,” Paula gasped, her voice choked with tears. “We couldn’t find any answers.” They were told that she left the youth home to meet up with friends in Detroit, Michigan.
Mindy’s father Gary immediately wanted to drive to Detroit, Michigan to look for his beloved daughter, telling Paula, “Let go!”
Paula reasoned with Gary asking him, “Where in Detroit?”
“I don’t know just drive around,” he replied. With the voice of reason eventually winning over, both decided the best they could do is check with the police.
Then Paula’s sister Barb received a call from Mindy around Thanksgiving in 1995, revealing she was ok and in Michigan.
For a brief moment, hope flickered within Paula’s weary soul, as she remembered a Mother’s Day card she received during those months leading to Mindy’s disappearance. It was a small gesture, a spark of connection amidst the darkness of uncertainty. Paula cherished the thought of that card, an irreplaceable token of love from her daughter.
Sleepless nights turned into tireless days, and time passed, days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months, months turned into years. Mindy’s whereabouts remained a mystery as the family desperately clung to hope, praying that Mindy would one day reach out, that she would confirm she was safe.
They waited and waited; their hearts burdened with unanswered questions. Twenty-seven years may have slipped away, but Paula refused to let go of the memories, the love, and the hope. She had weathered countless nights of tears and endless days of longing. She yearned for closure, for answers, and for the chance to hold Mindy in her arms once more.
But time passed, and Mindy’s whereabouts remained a mystery. Paula just couldn’t imagine that Mindy still hanging on to the anger that separated them, she couldn’t be still mad at me, then her favorite grandmother died that Mindy cared for, still nothing from Mindy. Deep within Paula a nagging thought, maybe something bad had happened to Mindy, surely, she wouldn’t have missed her grandmother’s funeral. They waited and waited; their hearts burdened with unanswered questions.
And so, Paula Clevidence remembers. She remembers the laughter in Mindy’s eyes, the warmth of her presence, and the extraordinary spirit that made her daughter truly shine. With a heart heavy yet resilient, Paula waited.
Highland Park Jane Doe
But fate would once again deal a heavy blow to those hopes of finding Mindy alive, in the form of a phone call. As Paula would say, things happen in God’s time, the wheels of circumstance were turning long before Paula would have thought. Things were lining up to Gods time schedule, unbeknownst to Paula.
In 2015 the Michigan State Police Cold Case Detectives we trying to find out who was the “Highland Park Jane Doe,” the name the Detectives and media dubbed her. Cold Case Detectives receive help from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for the cost of exhuming Mindy’s body from a Canton Township cemetery in October 2015, to extract DNA in hopes of breaking the case and giving this young girl a name.
Cold Case Detectives kept telling themselves, “There is a chance,” a chance that her DNA could find a hit in the system, but again it was in God’s timing. As time then crept along, there were still no hits on her DNA, and her body still laid in the Michigan, Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Highland Park Jane Doe would have to wait just like everyone else.
Police and news reports described the horrific details behind the death of the Highland Park Jane Doe.
Highland Park Jane Doe was found between Cortland and Richton Streets in Highland Park, Michigan, a suburb just 6 miles from Detroit, MI. When found, Jane Doe was wearing a white shirt with yellow smiley faces and red lip prints; a white JXP Designs skirt; a white lace bra; black tennis shoes with white trim, size 8.5; white socks; and a gold-tone women’s wristwatch in the shape of a teddy bear, with a brown leather band. Her fingernails were long and painted purple, and her toenails were covered in pink polish.
According to several stories, Detectives would described her clothes as that of “a five-year-old”, there’s speculation she may have had a disability and been placed in foster care. But her mother and sister said she would never have worn that kind of clothing or had her hair back in a ponytail.
She laid fatally wounded with a shotgun blast to the throat at close range, in an alley behind 387 Cortland Street in Highland Park, Michigan, until her body was found, as the sun began to rise out of the western sky on May 20, 1996.
Residents in the neighborhood told police they had heard a single gunshot in the early morning hours, prior to her discovery, but no eyewitnesses came forward, nor did potential relatives, even though the Highland Park Police Department sought tips and reached out to the media repeatedly.
Detectives believe, because her body was located near the Lodge Freeway, which runs through Detroit and provides access to I-75 that she may have been travelling with her killer at the time of her death. Highland Park Jane Doe was ultimately laid to rest in an unmarked grave one year later, in April 1997 and tagged as Michigan’s “unidentified female No. 17.”
The Gift
In the spring of 2017, Paula’s granddaughter was preparing for her wedding. All the excitement and joy surrounding the upcoming nuptials created a buzz in the air, again fate entered in with a simple little wedding gift called “23andMe DNA Test.” As Paula explained, her granddaughter wanted to learn about her Irish ancestors and that made a great wedding gift. Only then, no one could have imagined where it would lead to, again Paula’s words would ring true, “God’s timing.”
Gary Clevidence passed away in 2021 from Covid, never knowing what happened to his daughter.
DNA Match
Paula’s granddaughter took the DNA in 2021 and the DNA test results not only revealed her Irish and German background, then something unexpected happen 2 years later, a potential DNA match in early in 2023, in a search by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children data base to a missing person named Jane Doe in Michigan, from the 23andMe DNA Test, done in 2021.
Upon receiving this shocking information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, detectives from Highland Park promptly reached out to the granddaughter, who had done the DNA test. With a calm demeanor, they asked her if she had any knowledge of a missing person within her family. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, she redirected the call to her mother, Mindy’s sister, Michelle Persinger.
Calling Paula, she asked, “Are you sitting down?”
Paula replied, “No. Why?”
“Just sit-down Mom!” As she explained what had happened and told her that the Detectives want to talk with her. In that moment, time seemed to freeze, and the world faded away.
Detectives from Highland Park sent a photograph of the 1996 Jane Doe to the Ashland Police Division asked Paula to come and identify if it was her daughter. A grimacing look formed on her face, as she searched her memory.
As Paula held the photograph in her trembling hands, tears of sorrow and the sense of the 27-year burden mingled on her cheeks. It was Mindy. The resemblance was undeniable. The missing piece of the puzzle had finally fallen into place.
However, the journey was not over. The detectives required a DNA sample from Paula to confirm the connection conclusively. Thus, the clock was reset, and the passing of seconds turned into minutes, and minutes turned into hours, hours into days, and days turned to a month, then two months.
During this time, the investigators tirelessly pursued all leads. Their unwavering dedication finally bore fruit, as the DNA between Highland Park Jane Doe and Paula was officially established. They were one and the same. At last, the mystery of Mindy’s disappearance had been solved.
The truth, though heart-wrenching, brought a sense of closure for Paula. She mourned the loss of her daughter once again, but this time with the knowledge that Mindy Clevidence had been found. She remained grateful for the spark of hope that had flickered within her weary soul all those years.
Paula would graciously say, with a mixture of gratitude and awe, “God directed the detectives to persevere because it has been so many years. It’s a God thing.” She found solace in knowing that divine providence had guided them all along, leading them to this moment of revelation.
As per the family’s request, the remains of Mindy Clevidence were cremated. With utmost reverence, the Highland Park Police Detectives personally traveled to Ohio, carrying Mindy’s urn back to her waiting mother.
It’s the nightmare nobody wants to think about, saying goodbye to your child. Roberts Funeral Home, located in the Ashland County Memorial Park, at 1058 US Route 250 will be her final resting place.
Home, Mindy Clevidence is now home, after all these years a grieving mother gets her daughter back.
A Final Farewell
On Monday, December 11, 2023, Paula Clevidence and her daughter met at Roberts Funeral Home on US Route 250, in Ashland County for a short private ceremony, to give Mindy Clevidence a final resting place.
As the freezing cold wind blew, not hard, but made it feel like a cold knife cutting deeply, I stood outside in front of the mausoleum, waiting for the family to arrive. Two chairs were placed in front of the little boxes called niches, a place to put cremated remains. A little table held the urn containing the cremated remains of Mindy Clevidence.
Mindy’s mother, along with her sister, walked up the short cement sidewalk, stood before the rows of niches, and allowed the tears that had fought so hard for years to escape, run down their cheeks.
Although staying back in the driveway, feeling like I was still intruding, I quietly took a picture. Why? you may ask. Because this story must be told, we can’t forget, we must not forget. There is still another chapter to go with this story. Mindy Clevidence’s killer is still out there; it’s still an open homicide investigation.
Although this milestone in the case is solved, we must bring her killer to justice, so a family that so richly deserves can finally have closure.
Highland Park Police Detectives are still looking for anyone that knew Mindy Clevidence, friends that may have talked to her in 1996, or other kids at the group home who may know who she left with. Please, if you want to provide or request additional information, please contact: Highland Park Police Department, Highland Park, Michigan, (313) 334-9256 or FBI ViCAP, (800) 634-4097
Questions:
1. What Youth Home did Ashland County Juvenile Court send Mindy Clevidence to?
2. Who were the friends Mindy Clevidence meet in Detroit, Michigan?
3. Did anyone around Ashland County hear from Mindy Clevidence in 1995/1996?
After hearing of this story, I reached out to Fox8 News I-Team reporter Peggy Gallek and we were able to speak with Mindy Clevidence mother on Dec 6, 2023. Here is the link to the Fox8 story
Joe Lyons •
December 20, 2023
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— today announced that more than 100 pardons have been granted as part of the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project.
Ashland, Ohio – Earlier this morning, members of the United States Marshals Service Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Zykeshalla Murphy, 32. Murphy was wanted by the Killeen, Texas Police Department for murder.
Civilian of the Year: Transcriber Amy Johnson
Detective of the Year:
Supervisor of the Year: Sergeant Joseph Soehnlen
Officer of the Year: Officer Justin Cikity
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Earl Whipple. Whipple is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Whipple, 49, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Whipple has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Shelby Ohio, and High Springs Florida.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Matthew Hively. Hively is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs. Hively, 44, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall. Hively has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Flores, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley NV.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Derrick Taylor. Taylor is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of felonious assault. Harris, 45, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall. Harris has ties to the citie of Ashland, Baltic, and Galion.
