Joe Lyons •
May 11, 2023
Tri-County Educational Service Center, that serves Ashland, Holmes, and Wayne Counties, led a field trip with Ashland’s group, at two of the Ashland County Parks, Byers Woods, a 215-acre park, at 675 County Road 1754, and Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park, at the intersection of State Route 60, and County Road 1754.
Enjoy the video
Joe Lyons •
May 10, 2023
ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University and the Coburn Art Gallery are hosting “Digital Dots,” a creative and intensive one-week summer art camp for young artists (ages 8-12). It will be held June 19-23 from 9 a.m. to noon each day.
Students will explore art and technology through the lens of various media, including stop motion animation, printmaking, photography, digital art, video and ceramics. They will also develop cultural appreciation and aesthetic awareness by learning different art forms, as well as developing their own talent for self-expression.
The fee for “Digital Dots” is $90 per child. All art materials are provided plus a handcrafted t-shirt. Enrollment is limited, thus registration and payment are required in advance.
For more information or to register, email cpetry@ashland.edu.
Joe Lyons •
May 10, 2023
UPDATE:
From the Ashland County Engineer’s Office “This road closing is being POSTPONED to a later date-middle to late June.”
A portion of County Road 775 in Green Township will be closed Monday, May 15th through Wednesday, May 17th for a culvert replacement.
The road will be closed between County Road 2175 and County Road 2256. More specifically between House # 2314 and House # 2284.
It is anticipated that the road will reopen on Wednesday, May 17th.
Joe Lyons •
May 9, 2023
Joe Lyons •
May 9, 2023
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Salvation Army Kroc Center in Ashland is delighted to announce that it will operate its Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) this summer with the support of the United States Department of Agriculture. This will be the Kroc Center’s 14th consecutive year serving as an SFSP site and assisting families whose children receive free or reduced-price lunch in school during the summer. The program is open to all families in Ashland County.
“We are so happy to have the kids be able to eat together again this year and mid-summer they will be able to also enjoy the opening of the New Spray Park,” said Jen Washock, Director of Social Services.
The Kroc’s Summer Food Service Program begins June 12 and operates until August 11. It is open on weekdays from 12:15pm to 12:45 p.m. to children ages 1 to 18. No registration is required. Each week brings different themes for kids to engage in throughout the summer in conjunction with the meals.
Meals will be served at the picnic pavilion located behind the building. Guests may enter through the gate in the West parking lot.
In addition to the SFSP program, and as during the rest of the year, the Kroc Center will continue to provide congregate community meals from 11 to 11:30 a.m., as well as operating our food pantry each weekday.
For up-to-date information, check out @AshlandKroc on Instagram and follow Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook
Joe Lyons •
May 9, 2023
Ashland Pregnancy Care Center and the Gideons International Ashland Camp are partnering together for a fourth year to present the BLESSING BAG OUTREACH for expectant moms and mommies with babies (up to age 2) in the Ashland community.
To kick off Mother’s Day weekend, on Friday, May 12th from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church Parking Lot (220 Sandusky St., Ashland) families can drive by and be presented a “blessing bag” filled with diapers (newborn – size 5), wipes, prayer blanket, personal hygiene items, and more. Limited supplies are available. Free baby food and formula will be distributed as well as other gifts from local businesses/organizations.
The women’s auxiliary with Gideons International will be presenting Bibles to families and offering prayers for each mom who drives by for help. Rise FM Radio will also be in attendance providing encouraging music.
This event started in May 2020 in response to COVID-19 and wanted to turn a negative into a positive. Ashland Pregnancy Care Center and its team saw firsthand how families needed extra help with the necessities to care for a newborn.
The purpose of this event is to encourage moms and moms-to-be to remind them of their value and worth.
Joe Lyons •
May 9, 2023
Joe Lyons •
May 9, 2023
April Parks, the defendant in a Cruelty to Companion Animals case, appeared before the Ashland County Common Pleas Court on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, for an initial hearing. The charge, filed on May 2, 2024, is a Felony 5th Degree under section 0959.131(C).
The hearing, presided over by Magistrate Emily M. Bates, saw Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Callow representing the State. Parks, who initially lacked legal representation following her bond hearing, was assigned Zushin as her counsel during the May 7th hearing.
In a subsequent development on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Attorney Benjamin Zushin entered a plea of Not Guilty on behalf of April Parks, along with a request for a bond modification. However, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Callow objected. Court documents revealed that Magistrate Emily M. Bates shared the objection to a bond modification, citing the severity of the offense and expressing concerns regarding April Parks’ mental health and her potential risk to the community.
As of today, Thursday, May 9, 2024, Despite the denial of the bond modification, April Parks managed to post bond through Hitchman Bonds, based in Mansfield, Ohio. The court set a further appearance hearing for Friday, May 24, 2024, at 1:30 p.m., to be conducted via video.
Joe Lyons •
May 8, 2023
Douglas Lindsay Age: 43
Black / Male / 5’5’’ / 155 / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for Illegal manufacturing of drugs F2.
Ties to Mansfield area.
Seth Gardner Age: 43
White / Male / 6’0’’ / 185 / Brown Hair / Green Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of robbery F1.
Ties to the Mansfield area and Cape Girardeau, MO.
Derrick Taylor Age: 44
White / Male / 6’2’’ / 245 / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for felonious assault F2.
Ties to the Mansfield, Butler, Baltic, and Wooster areas.
Richard Kiser Age: 56
White / Male / 5’7’’ / 180 / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a failing to provide change of address as sex offender
Ties to the Mansfield, New Philadelphia, Conneaut, Bergholz, Lawrenceburg, TN
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.
Joe Lyons •
May 6, 2023
Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell Announces April 2023 Felony Indictments
Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell released fourteen (14) felony indictments issued by the Ashland County Grand Jury which met in April.
The Grand Jury issued a total of fifteen (15) indictments against fifteen (15) persons, one of which remains sealed.
The following persons were the subject of an indictment and have or will appear before the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas:
Trevor Busch of Ashland, case no. 23-CRl-089, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that TREVOR BUSCH did:
COUNT ONE: BREAKING AND ENTERING a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about March 20, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Trevor Busch, did, by force, stealth, or deception, trespass, as defined in section 291 1.21 (A)(l) of the Revised Code, in the unoccupied structure of Douglas Plaster, with the purpose to commit therein any theft offense, as defined in Section 2913.01 of the Revised Code
COUNT TWO: PETTY THEFT a misdemeanor of the first degree.
In that on or about March 20, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Trevor Busch, did with purpose to deprive the owner, Douglas Plaster, of property or services, to wit: one (1 ) trail camera, knowingly obtain or exert control over either the property or services without the consent of the owner or person authorized to give consent, in violation of Ohio Revised Code and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
John Ruehlen of Wellington, case no. 23-CRl-076, investigating agency APDSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that JOHN RUEHLEN did:
COUNT ONE: BURGLARY a felony of the second degree
In that on or about March 7, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, JOHN RUEHLEN, did, by force, stealth, or deception, trespass in an occupied structure or in a separately secured or separately occupied portion of an occupied structure, to wit: O’Bryan’s Pub, 1065 Claremont Ave., Ashland, Ohio, 44805, when another person, not the accomplice of the offender, was present, with purpose to commit in the structure or in the separately secured or separately occupied portion of the structure any criminal offense, to wit: Petty Theft, ORC Sections 2913.02(A)(1 ) & 2913.02(B)(2), in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: PETTY THEFT a misdemeanor of the first degree.
In that on or about March 7, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, JOHN RUEHLEN, did with purpose to deprive the owner, O’Bryan’s Pub and/or Keith Bryan, of property or services, to wit: miscellaneous Ohio Lottery tickets, knowingly obtain or exert control over either the property or services without the consent of the owner or person authorized to give consent, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2913.02(A)(1), 2913.02(B)(2), PETTY THEFT, a misdemeanor of the first degree.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Samuel Swiger of Sullivan, case no. 23-CRl-073, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE state of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that SAMUEL SWIGER did:
COUNT ONE: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, did operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state, when at the time of the operation he was under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 451 1 .19(A)(1 )(a), 451 1.19(G)(1 )(d), OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI, a felony of the fourth degree.
FURTHERMORE, within ten years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to three violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 13TRC01897.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT ONE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count One was committed while the said Samuel Swiger is the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
COUNT TWO: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, did operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state, when at the time of the operation he had a concentration of seventeen hundredths of one per cent or more by weight per unit volume of alcohol in his whole blood, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, within ten years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to three violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 13TRC01897.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT TWO: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Two was committed while the said Samuel Swiger is the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
COUNT THREE: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, within twenty years of the conduct described jn division (A)(2)(a) of this section, having previously been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation of this division, division (A)(l) or (B) of this section, or a municipal OVI offense, did both of the following: operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state while under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them and subsequent to being arrested for operating the vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley as described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section, being asked by a law enforcement officer to submit to a chemical test or tests under section 4511.191 of the Revised Code, and being advised by the officer in accordance with section 451 1 .192 of the Revised Code of the consequences of his refusal or submission to the test or tests, refused to submit to the test or tests, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, within ten years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to three violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 13TRC01897.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT THREE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Three was committed while the said Samuel Swiger js the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
COUNT FOUR: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, did operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state, when at the time of the operation he was under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 4511 .19(A)(1 )(a), 4511.19(G)(1 )(d), OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI, a felony of the fourth degree.
FURTHERMORE, within twenty years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to five violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no.
13TRC01897 and/or Elyria Muni 2007TRC07203 and/or Elyria Muni 2005TRC06302 and/or Elyria Muni 2003TRC00117.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT FOUR: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Four was committed while the said Samuel Swiger is the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
COUNT FIVE: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, did operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state, when at the time of the operation he had a concentration of seventeen hundredths of one per cent or more by weight per unit volume of alcohol in his whole blood, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, within twenty years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to five violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 13TRC01897 and/or Elyria Muni 2007TRC07203 and/or Elyria Muni 2005TRC06302 and/or Elyria Muni 2003TRC00117.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT FIVE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Five was committed while the said Samuel Swiger is the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
COUNT SIX: OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, A DRUG OF ABUSE OR A COMBINATION OF THEM – OVI a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 25, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Samuel Swiger, within twenty years of the conduct described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section, having previously been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation Of this division, division (A)(l) or (B) of this section, or a municipal OVI offense, did both of the following: operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state while under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them and subsequent to being arrested for operating the vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley as described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section, being asked by a law enforcement officer to submit to a chemical test or tests under section 4511.191 of the Revised Code, and being advised by the officer in accordance with section 4511.192 of the Revised Code of the consequences of his refusal or submission to the test or tests, refused to submit to the test or tests, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, within twenty years of the offense, Samuel Swiger was previously convicted of or plead guilty to five violations of division (A) or (B) of this section or other equivalent offenses, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 19TRC05443 and Ashland. Municipal Court case no. 14TRC04860 and Ashland Municipal Court case no. 13TRC01897 and/or Elyria Muni 2007TRC07203 and/or Elyria Muni 2005TRC06302 and/or Elyria Muni 2003TRC00117.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT SIX: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Six was committed while the said Samuel Swiger js the owner and/or possessor of a 2005 Chrysler 300 with Ohio license plate no. JXH3202, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to be used in the commission or facilitation of the offense, which is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A) and 4503.234 of the Revised Code.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio
Brian Esbenshade of Ashland, case no. 23-CRl-090, investigating agency APDSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that BRIAN ESBENSHADE did:
COUNT ONE: AGGRAVATED TRAFFICKING IN DRUGS a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about March 23, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BRIAN ESBENSHADE, did knowingly prepare for shipment, ship, transport, deliver, prepare for distribution, or distribute a controlled substance or a controlled substance analog, when the offender knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the controlled substance or a controlled substance analog is intended for sale or resale by the offender or another person and the drug involved in the violation is any compound, mixture, preparation, or substance included in Schedule I or Schedule Il, to wit: Methamphetamine, a Schedule Il drug in an amount less than the bulk amount, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT ONE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count One was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of a Samsung cellular phone, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission of the offense, to-wit: said cell phone being used to communicate with customers, suppliers and co-traffickers and/or other persons involved in shipping and/or selling of drugs.
SPECIFICATION TWO TO COUNT ONE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count One was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of one (1) 2003 Pontiac Sunfire with VIN #1 G2JB12F2372776881 which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense, to wit: said vehicle being used to transport drugs and/or drug proceeds.
COUNT TWO: AGGRAVATED POSSESSION OF DRUGS a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about March 23, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BRIAN ESBENSHADE, did knowingly obtain, possess, or use a controlled substance or a controlled substance analog and the drug involved in the violation is a compound, mixture, preparation, or substance included in Schedule or Il, to wit: Methamphetamine, a Schedule Il drug, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT TWO: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Two was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of a Samsung cellular phone, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission of the offense, to-wit: said cell phone being used to communicate with customers, suppliers and co-traffickers and/or other persons involved in shipping and/or selling of drugs.
SPECIFICATION TWO TO COUNT TWO: (Section 2941 .1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Two was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of one (1) 2003 Pontiac Sunfire with VIN #1 G2JB12F237277688, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense, to wit: said vehicle being used to transport drugs and/or drug proceeds.
COUNT THREE: POSSESSING CRIMINAL TOOLS (Section 2923.24(A), 2923.24(C) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about March 23, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BRIAN ESBENSHADE, did possess or have under the person’s control any substance, device, instrument, or article, to wit: one (1) 2003 Pontiac Sunfire with VIN #1 G2JB12F237277688 and/or one (1) Samsung cellular phone with purpose to use it criminally, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.24(A), 2923.24(C), POSSESSING CRIMINAL TOOLS, a felony of the fifth degree.
FURTHERMORE, the circumstances indicate that the substance, device, instrument, or article involved in the offense was intended for use in the commission of a felony, to wit: Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, ORC Sections
2925.03(A)(2) & 2925.03(C)(1 )(a) and/or Aggravated Possession of Drugs, ORC Sections 2925.1 1 (A) & 2925.1 1 (C)(l )(a
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT THREE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Three was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of a Samsung cellular phone, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission of the offense, to-wit: said cell phone being used to communicate with customers, suppliers and co-traffickers and/or other persons involved in shipping and/or selling of drugs.
SPECIFICATION TWO TO COUNT THREE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Three was committed while the said BRIAN ESBENSHADE is the owner and/or possessor of one (1 ) 2003 Pontiac Sunfire with VIN #1 G2JB12F237277688, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense, to wit: said vehicle being used to transport drugs and/or drug proceeds.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Broc McKinney of Ashland, case no. 23-CRl-091 , investigating agencySee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE state of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that BROC MCKINNEY did:
COUNT ONE: AGGRAVATED POSSESSION OF DRUGS a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about March 24, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BROC MCKINNEY, did knowingly obtain, possess, or use a controlled substance or a controlled substance analog and the drug involved in the violation is a compound, mixture, preparation, or substance included in Schedule I or Il, to wit: Methamphetamine, a Schedule Il drug, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a misdemeanor of the first degree.
In that on or about March 24, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BROC MCKINNEY, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm t a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2919.25(A), DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, a misdemeanor of the first degree.
COUNT THREE: ENDANGERING CHILDREN a misdemeanor of the first degree.
In that on or about March 24, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, BROC MCKINNEY, was a parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child under eighteen years of age, who did create a substantial risk to the health or safety of “John Doe” (DOB: XX/XX/2023), by violating a duty of care, protection, or support, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2919.22(A), ENDANGERING CHILDREN, a misdemeanor of the first degree.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Brian Hicks of Sullivan, case no. 23-CRl-088, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that BRIAN HICKS did:
COUNT ONE: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about March 18, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Brian Hicks, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to Kristie Searle, a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2919.25 (A), DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, a felony of the fourth degree.
FURTHERMORE, Brian Hicks has previously pleaded guilty to or been convicted of domestic violence, a violation of an existing or former municipal ordinance or law of this or any other state or the United States that is substantially similar to domestic violence, a violation of section 2903.14, 2909.06, 2909.07, 2911.12, 2911.211, or
2919.22 of the Revised Code or any offense of violence if the victim of the violation was a family or household member at the time of the commission of the offense, to wit: Elyria Municipal Court 2007CRB03376.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Todd Michael Hendrix of Loudonville, case no. 23-CRl-092, investigating agency LPDSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that TODD MICHAEL HENDRIX did:
COUNT ONE: KIDNAPPING a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about March 24, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Todd Michael Hendrix did, by force, threat, or deception under circumstances that created a substantial risk Of serious physical harm to— knowingly restrain XXXXXXXXXXX of her liberty, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about March 24, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Todd Michael Hendrix, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to—, a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, Todd Michael Hendrix has previously pleaded guilty to or been convicted of domestic violence, a violation of an existing or former municipal ordinance or law of this or any other state or the United States that is substantially similar to domestic violence, a violation of section 2903.14, 2909.06, 2909.07, 291 1.12, 2911.21 1, or
2919.22 of the Revised Code or any offense of violence if the victim of the violation was a family or household member at the time of the commission of the offense, to wit: Wayne County Municipal Court case no. 2020 CR-B 000130.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Tarek Berry of Mansfield, case no. 23-CRl-096, investigating agencySee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that TAREK BERRY did:
COUNT ONE: ABDUCTION a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about April 3, 2023 through April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, TAREK BERRY, did, without privilege to do so, knowingly, by force or threat, restrain the liberty of XXXXXXXX under circumstances that created a risk of physical harm to her or placed her in fear, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about April 3, 2023 through April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, TAREK BERRY, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to XXXXXXXXX, a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, the offender knew that the victim was pregnant at the time of the violation.
COUNT THREE: DISRUPTING PUBLIC SERVICES a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, TAREK BERRY, did purposely, by any means or knowingly by damaging or tampering with any property, interrupt or impair telecommunications being used for public service or emergency communications, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2909.04(A)(1), 2909.04(C), DISRUPTING PUBLIC SERVICES, a felony of the fourth degree.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio
Isaiah Keennan of Ashland, case no. 23-CRl-097, investigating agencySee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE state of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that ISAIAH KEENAN ) did:
COUNT ONE: KIDNAPPING a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about April 3, 2023 through April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, ISAIAH KEENAN, did, by force, threat, or deception under circumstances that created a substantial risk of serious physical harm to XXXXXXX knowingly restrain of her liberty, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: GROSS SEXUAL IMPOSITION a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about April 3, 2023 through April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, ISAIAH KEENAN, did have sexual contact witt— not his spouse, when ISAIAH KEENAN purposely compelled such person(s) to submit by force or threat of force, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT THREE: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a misdemeanor of the first degree.
In that on or about April 3, 2023 through April 4, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, ISAIAH KEENAN, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to XXXXXXXX, a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Michael A. Troyer of Holmesville, case 23-CRl-094, investigating agency OSHPSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE state ofOhio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that MICHAEL A. TROYER did:
COUNT ONE: FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH AN ORDER OR SIGNAL OF A POLICE OFFICER, a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about-April 1, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Michael A. Troyer, did operate a motor vehicle so as willfully to elude or flee a police officer after receiving a visible or audible signal from a police officer to bring his motor vehicle to a stop and the operation of the motor vehicle by the offender caused a substantial risk of serious physical harm to persons or property, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT ONE: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count One was committed while the said Michael A. Troyer is the owner and/or possessor of one (1) 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt with VIN #1 GIAPI 1 P267827461 which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense and is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A), 2981.02, and 2981.04 of the Revised Code.
Furthermore, by virtue of Section 2901.12 (H) of the Ohio Revised Code, the offense was committed in Ashland County, Ohio and/or Wayne County, Ohio
COUNT TWO: POSSESSING CRIMINAL TOOLS a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about April 1, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Michael A. Troyer, did possess or have under the person’s control any substance, device, instrument, or article, to wit: one (1) 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt with VIN
#1 GIAPI 1 P267827461 with purpose to use it criminally, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.24(A), 2923.24 POSSESSING CRIMINAL TOOLS, a felony of the fifth degree.
FURTHERMORE, the circumstances indicate that the substance, device, instrument, or article involved in the offense was intended for use in the commission of a felony, to wit: Failure to Comply with an Order or Signal of a Police Officer
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT TWO: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Two was committed while the said Michael A. Troyer is the owner and/or possessor of one (1) 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt with VIN #1 GIAPI 1 P267827461 which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense and is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417(A), 2981.02, and 2981.04 of the Revised Code.
Furthermore, by virtue of Section 2901.12 (H) of the Ohio Revised Code, the offense was committed in Ashland County, Ohio and/or Wayne County, Ohio
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Coy Manion of Ashland, case no. 23-CRI-095, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE state of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that COY MANION did:
COUNT ONE: FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH AN ORDER OR SIGNAL OF A POLICE OFFICER a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about April 2, 2023 through April 3, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Coy Manion, did operate a motor vehicle so as willfully to elude or flee a police officer after receiving a visible or audible signal from a police officer to bring his motor vehicle to a stop and the operation of the motor vehicle by the offender caused a substantial risk of serious physical harm to persons or property, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
Furthermore, by virtue of Section 2901.12 (H) of the Ohio Revised Code, the offense was committed in Ashland County, Ohio and/or Richland County, Ohio
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Dakota Griffin of Ashland, case no. 23-CRl-086, investigating agency APDSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that DAKOTA GRIFFIN did:
COUNT ONE: AGGRAVATED BURGLARY a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about March 9, 2023 through March 10; 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, DAKOTA GRIFFIN, did, by force, stealth, or deception, trespass, as defined in section 2911.21 (A)(l ) of the Revised Code, in an occupied structure or in a separately secured or separately occupied portion of an occupied structure, to wit: the Gracelyn Harrison and/or Elijah Pickrell residence located at 521 E. 5th Street, Ashland, Ohio, when another person other than the accomplice of the offender was present, with purpose to commit in the structure or in the separately secured or separately occupied portion of the structure any criminal offense, to wit: Felonious Assault, ORC Sections 2903.1 1 (A)(l) & 2903.1 1 (D)(l )(a) and/or Felonious Assault, ORC Sections 2903.11 (A)(2) & 2903.1 1 )(a), and the offender inflicted, or attempted or threatened to inflict physical harm on Elijah Pickrell, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2911 .11 ), 291 1 .11 (B), AGGRAVATED BURGLARY, a felony of the first degree.
COUNT TWO: COMPLICITY (FELONIOUS ASSAULT a felony of the second degree.
In that on or about March 9, 2023 through March 10, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, DAKOTA GRIFFIN, did act with the kind of culpability required for the commission of an offense and did aid or abet another in committing the offense of Felonious Assault, ORC Sections 2903.11(A)(1) & 2903.11(D)(1)(a), and the underlying offense was a felony of the second degree, to wit: the Felonious Assault on Elijah Pickrell in which he sustained serious physical harm, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.03(F), COMPLICITY (FELONIOUS ASSAULT, ORC SECTIONS 2903.11 (A)(l) & 2903.11 a felony of the second degree.
COUNT THREE: COMPLICITY a felony of the second degree.
In that on or about March 9, 2023 through March 10, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, DAKOTA GRIFFIN, did act with the kind of culpability required for the commission of an offense and did solicit or procure another to commit the offense of Felonious Assault, ORC Sections 2903.11(A)(2) & 2903.11(D)(1)(a), and the underlying offense was a felony of the second degree, to wit: the Felonious Assault on Elijah Pickrell in which he sustained physical harm by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance, i.e. one (1) pair of brass knuckles, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Randall Jeffrey of West Salem, case no. 23-CRI-IOO, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that RANDALL JEFFREY did:
COUNT ONE: RAPE a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about July 15, 2018 through July 14, 2020, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did engage in sexual conduct with “Jane Doe” (DOB: XX/XX/2007) who was not the spouse of the offender, whose age at the time of the said sexual conduct was less than thirteen years of age, whether or not the offender knew the age of “Jane Doe”, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: RAPE a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about July 15, 2020 through February 26, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did engage in sexual conduct with “Jane Doe” (DOB: XX/XX/2007) when Randall Jeffrey purposely compelled her to submit by force or threat of force, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT THREE: RAPE a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did engage in sexual conduct with “Jane Doe” (DOB: XX/XX/2007) who was not the spouse of the offender, and the ability of “Jane Doe” to resist or consent was substantially impaired because of a mental or physical condition or because of advanced age, and Randall Jeffrey knew or had reasonable cause to believe that “Jane Doe’s'”s ability to resist or consent was substantially impaired because of a mental or physical condition or because of advanced age, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT FOUR: COMPELLING PROSTITUTION a felony of the first degree.
In that on or about July 15, 2018 through February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did knowingly compel “Jane Doe” (DOB: XX/XX/2007) to engage in sexual activity for hire, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.21 2907.21 COMPELLING PROSTITUTION, a felony of the first degree.
FURTHERMORE, the victim was less than sixteen years of age.
COUNT FIVE: COMPELLING PROSTITUTION (Section 2907.21 2907.21 (C) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about July 15, 2018 through February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did knowingly induce, procure; encourage, solicit, request, or otherwise facilitate “Jane Doe” (DOB: 07/15/2007), a minor, to engage in sexual activity for hire, whether or not he knew the age of “Jane Doe”, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.21 2907.21 COMPELLING PROSTITUTION, a felony of the third degree.
COUNT SIX: COMPELLING PROSTITUTION a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about July 15, 2018 through February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did knowingly pay or agree to pay a minor, to wit:” Jane Doe”, DOB: XX/XX/2007, either directly or through the minors agent, so that “Jane Doe” will engage in sexual activity, whether or not the offender knows the age of “Jane Doe”, in violation of Ohio Re0iSed code Section 2907.-21 2907.21 (C), COMPELLING PROSTITUTION, a felony of the third degree.
COUNT SEVEN: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical. harm to “John Doe” (DOB: 04/15/2006), a family or household member, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, Randall Jeffrey has previously pleaded guilty to or been convicted of domestic violence, a violation of an existing or former municipal ordinance or law of this or any other state or the United States that is substantially similar to domestic violence, a violation of section 2903.14, 2909.06, 2909.07, 2911 .12, 291 1.21 1 , or
2919.22 of the Revised Code or any offense of violence if the victim of the violation was a family or household member at the time of the commission of the offense, to wit: Lorain Municipal Court case no. 2000CRB02243.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT SEVEN: (Section 2941.145(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Seven was committed while the said Randall Jeffrey had a firearm on or about his person or under his control while committing the offense and displayed the firearm, brandished the firearm, indicated that he possessed the firearm, or used it to facilitate the offense, to wit: one (1 ) Ruger EC9s 9mm handgun with serial no. 45658949 and/or one (1) Marlin .22 cal. rifle with serial no. MN24527B.
SPECIFICATION TWO TO COUNT SEVEN: (Section 2941.1417(A) of the Ohio Revised code)
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Seven was committed while the said
Randall Jeffrey is the owner and/or possessor of a Ruger EC9s 9mm handgun with serial no. 45658949 and/or a Marlin .22 cal. rifle with serial no. MN24527B which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense and is subject to forfeiture pursuant to 2941.1417 (A), 2981 .02, and 2981.04 of the Revised Code.
COUNT EIGHT: HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY a felony of the third degree.
In that on or about February 27, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Randall Jeffrey, did knowingly acquire, have, cany, or use a firearm or dangerous ordnance and the person is drug dependent, in danger of drug dependence, or a chronic alcoholic, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.13(A)(4), 2923.13(B), HAVING WEAPONS WHILE UNDER DISABILITY, a felony of the third degree.
SPECIFICATION ONE TO COUNT
The Grand Jurors further find and specify that the offense as stated in Count Eight was committed while the said Randall Jeffrey is the owner and/or possessor of a Ruger EC9s 9mm handgun with serial no. 45658949 and/or a Marlin .22 cal. rifle with serial no. MN24527B, which was contraband and/or property derived from or through the commission or facilitation of the offense, and/or was an instrumentality the offender used or intended to use in the commission or facilitation of the offense.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Matthew Nicholson of Ashland, case no. 23-CRI-098, investigating agency ACSOSee Indictments
Of the 3rd Partial in the year two thousand twenty three
THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that MATTHEW NICHOLSON did:
COUNT ONE: VIOLATING A PROTECTION ORDER a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about April 9, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Matthew Nicholson, did recklessly violate the terms of a protection order issued or consent agreement approved pursuant to section 2919.26 or 3113.31 of the Revised code, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
FURTHERMORE, Matthew Nicholson previously had been convicted of, pleaded guilty to, or been adjudicated a delinquent child for one violation of Section 2919.27, to wit: Ashland Municipal Court case no. 22CRB00906.
and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.
Prosecutor Tunnell would like to thank the Grand Jurors for their time and assistance, and the men and women of the investigating agencies for their hard work in protection Ashland County Citizens. Prosecutor Tunnell further stressed that all persons indicted by the April Grand Jury are innocent until proven guilty.