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
ASHLAND, Ohio – Kurt Schneider, who will be Ashland County’s next sheriff, has released a mini-documentary highlighting the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border and its impact on communities nationwide, including in North Central Ohio. Schneider recently led a delegation from Ashland County to Cochise County, Arizona, to observe the effects of the border crisis firsthand.
The four-minute documentary, produced by Ashland resident Sean Bartley’s firm, provides a concise overview of the border crisis and the humanitarian and economic toll extending well beyond Arizona. “Schneider’s brief Border documentary succinctly highlights the issues arising from our broken border across the entire country,” Bartley said. “The documentary addresses the Cartels’ influence, the elements involved in securing the border, and what we all can do to make sure those actions are taken.”
In the opening of the documentary, Schneider explains his purpose in bringing local leaders to the border. “I thought it to be a prudent decision to take a delegation of leaders from Ashland County to put eyes on this crisis firsthand, figure out how it’s going to affect us locally,” he says. Schneider goes on to describe the extensive control of the border by criminal cartels, asserting, “they are the ones calling the shots.”
Ashland Mayor Matt Miller, who was part of the delegation, elaborates on the cartels’ profit motives. “They are taking advantage of this border situation to make money,” Miller said. “They are sacrificing the lives of people from all over the world in the name of making money.”
Ohio State Representative Melanie Miller also offers insights into the gaps in border security, emphasizing a three-pronged approach. “There’s that three-tiered approach for security, the lighting, the security with cameras, obviously the physical wall but also the men and women to secure the border,” stated Representative Miller. “We have to do that for our American people.”
The delegation collectively addressed the severe humanitarian costs stemming from the crisis. “This is not just an Arizona crisis or a Texas crisis. Every state in the Union has a border problem,” Schneider states in the documentary. He highlights that individuals crossing the border become indentured servants to the cartels where they are forced to work off their debt for the rest of their lives or risk harm to them or their family.
Representative Miller further underscores the humanitarian implications, stressing the safety of children caught in the crisis. “Children are lost. We don’t know where they are,” she says. “It is so important that we secure our border so we can protect human life.”
Closer to home, Mayor Miller links the border situation to local challenges in Ashland County, noting a double-digit increase in the number of cases in local courts involving individuals detained along Interstate 71. “It’s costing our local taxpayers to address the very men and women who are getting through this fence, over this fence, or getting into this country illegally,” he remarked.
Schneider, who has a long background in law enforcement and public safety, ends the documentary by encouraging Ashland County residents to vote for political leaders who will address the crisis head-on. “Vote for a president who will get stuff done. That’s Donald Trump,” he says. Schneider also highlights Bernie Moreno as a Senate candidate with a strong stance on border security and urges the election of local officials committed to understanding and tackling the complex issues arising from the border situation.
The documentary aims to raise awareness of the border crisis, the humanitarian crisis it is causing, and its impact on communities across the nation.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force has announced a reward for information leading to the capture of four fugitives wanted on a variety of charges.
The Task Force is actively searching for Akil Gordon, David Greene, Richard Keaton, and Dorrien Smith. Each individual is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and local law enforcement, and each has known ties to Northern Ohio.
Akil Gordon
Akil Gordon, 26, is wanted by the Mansfield Police Department for domestic violence. He is described as a Black male, 5 feet 9 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes. Gordon has connections to Mansfield.
David Greene
David Greene, 38, is wanted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on charges of failure to verify his address as a registered sex offender. Greene is a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet tall. He is known to frequent the Mansfield and Galion areas.
Richard Keaton
Richard Keaton, 62, is being sought by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a strangulation charge. He is described as a Black male, 5 feet 9 inches tall, with black hair and blue eyes. Keaton also has ties to Mansfield.
Dorrien Smith
Dorrien Smith, 45, is wanted for escape and a probation violation on an aggravated robbery charge. He is known to the U.S. Marshals Service, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Adult Parole Authority. Smith is a Black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 4 inches tall. He has connections to Mansfield and Marion, Ohio.
Authorities are urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Gordon, Greene, Keaton, or Smith to contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force. Anonymous tips can be made by calling 1-866-4WANTED or by texting the keyword WANTED and the tip to 847411 (tip411). Reward money is available for those providing useful information.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is committed to apprehending these individuals
Mark your calendars! Bernie Moreno coming to Ashland! Join us on Monday, October 28th at 3 PM at our GOP Headquarters, located at 141 E. Main St., for an event that’s sure to inspire and energize!
This is our moment to show the country that Ashland County is ready for a fresh voice in the U.S. Senate! Don’t miss this chance—invite your friends, family, and neighbors to be part of this key moment. Let’s make our voices heard!
Joe Lyons •
November 5, 2024
