Special News Release

Date Set for County Auction

The Highland County Commissioners and the Highland County Sheriff's Office will offer for sale property and real estate at public auction on August 10, 2010 at 4:00 PM at the Highland County Fairgrounds located at 604 John Street, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. The auction will be conducted by Hess Auction Company and all property will be sold to the highest bidder. The auction bill can be viewed at www.hessauctionco.com . The Highland County Commissioners nor the Highland County Sheriff make no warranty on any items sold, either implied or stated and assume no liability for any item after the sale is commenced. Any announcements made the sate of the sale will take precedent. All sales are final. 

The real estate property was forfeited due to criminal activity convictions pertaining to case #09CR153 and case # 09CR199 in the Highland County Common Pleas Court. The property is located at 45 Maple Street, Mowrystown, Ohio. It will be available for inspection on August 2, 2010 from 5:00 PM until 6:30 PM or by appointment. Contact Hess Auction Company, 937-446-2455 or 937-446-4455

REPORT OF ROAD RAGE LEADS TO DISCOVERY OF METHAMPHETAMINE LAB

 On Thursday, July 22, 2010, at approximately 8:01 p.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a possible road rage situation involving a vehicle traveling on U.S. 50 near the community of Allensburg.  A deputy on patrol was able to locate the vehicle on U.S. 50 just west of Hillsboro .  A traffic stop was conducted and it was found that the driver, Terry Scott Ross, age 24, of Brush Creek Township , had an active warrant out for his arrest.  It was further found that a passenger, Andy Munyon, also had an active warrant for his arrest.   

During an inventory of the vehicle, several items were located that are used in the production of methamphetamine.  Detectives were called to the scene and a subsequent search of the residence of Terry S. Ross resulted in additional items related to the production or methamphetamine being located.  A hazardous materials clean up crew was dispatched by the DEA to the residence located on Skeen Road , due to hazardous nature of the items found at that location.  

Terry S. Ross was taken into custody due to an active warrant for Failure To Appear from Hillsboro Municipal Court.  He was sentenced to 23 days in the Highland County Jail.  A number of items were located as evidence, several of which will be sent to the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation crime lab located in London , Ohio .  Once analysis is complete, the case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

INDICTMENT ISSUED IN SEXUAL RELATED CASE  

On Tuesday, May 4, 2010, the Highland County Grand Jury issued an indictment against Nicholas A. Smith, age 31, of Dodson Township .  The specific count was one count of Sexual Battery, a felony of the third degree.  The charge is the result of an investigation by Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and caseworkers from Highland County Children Services into allegations that Nicholas Smith engaged in sexual activity with a 14 year old female child.  Smith was arrested on May 6, 2010, by the Sheriff’s Office in Hillsboro , and brought to the Highland County Justice Center where he was arraigned via video arraignment in Highland County Common Pleas Court .  Smith was released on a surety bond of $10,000 and an own reconnaissance bond, and was placed on pretrial supervision.  Smith will have a pre-trial hearing in the near future in Highland County Common Pleas Court .

FORMER PASTOR INDICTED BY GRAND JURY IN CONNECTION WITH THEFT FROM LOCAL CHURCH  

On Tuesday, May 4, 2010, the Highland County Grand Jury issued a 17 count indictment against James A. Blaine, age 61, currently of San Antonio Texas, and formerly of Greenfield, Ohio (Highland County) related to a theft case involving the Good Shepherd Church in Madison Township, where he formerly served as pastor.  

The counts involve 13 counts of Forgery, each a felony of the fifth degree; one count of Unauthorized Use of Property, a felony of the fourth degree; one count of Forgery, a felony of the third degree, and two counts of Aggravated Theft, each a felony of the third degree.  

The charges are the result of a seven month long investigation by Highland County Sheriff’s Office Detectives into allegations that James A. Blaine stole money from the church, which he facilitated by forging names and documents that were then submitted to financial institutions, where Blaine obtained money in the name of the church for his personal use.  The incident was alleged to take place over a period of 2004 to 2009. 

Blaine was originally arrested on April 27, 2010, on one count of Theft filed in Highland County Court, when he returned to Ohio from Texas to attend a bankruptcy hearing on a case he initiated.  Blaine was arraigned on April 28, 2010, by Judge David McKenna, sitting by assignment in County Court.  The case was then presented to the Grand Jury on May 4, 2010, where the additional charges were issued.  Blaine will be scheduled for an arraignment in Highland County Common Pleas Court before The Honorable Judge Rocky Coss in the near future.  Blaine remains incarcerated at the Highland County Justice Center pending his arraignment in Common Pleas Court.

FORMER PASTOR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH THEFT FROM CHURCH  

On Tuesday, April 27, 2010, James A. Blaine, age 61, currently of San Antonio Texas, and formerly of Greenfield, Ohio (Highland County) was arrested related to a theft case involving the Good Shepherd Church in Madison Township.  

The charge was one count of Theft, a felony of the third degree, due to the dollar amount being over $100,000.  The charge was the result of a seven month long investigation by Highland County Sheriff’s Office Detectives into allegations that James A. Blaine stole money from the church, which he facilitated by forging names and documents that were then submitted to financial institutions, where Blaine obtained money in the name of the church for his personal use.  The incident was alleged to take place over a period of 2004 to 2009.   

Blaine was arrested in Hamilton County on April 27, 2010, by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive/ Warrant Squad at a bankruptcy hearing that he had recently initiated.  

Blaine is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center on a $100,000 bond and scheduled to appear in the Hillsboro Municipal Court for arraignment before The Honorable Judge David McKenna on April 28, 2010, at 2:00 p.m.

The case has also been presented to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional felony charges are likely.

ARREST MADE IN METHAMPHETAMINE CASE  

On Monday, March 1, 2010, deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office were called to assist Highland County Children Services on a home visit in Paint Township .  Upon arrival contact was made with the resident, Robert D. Throckmorton.  Further investigation revealed items related to the assembly of chemicals and production of methamphetamine were present.  Detectives were called to the scene and a search was made of the residence.  Upon conducting a search, several items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine were located.  The items were secured and an environmental clean up crew was dispatched by the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) to take possession of the items due to their hazardous nature.  

Robert D. Throckmorton, age 44, of Paint Township , was arrested and charged with the Illegal Assembly of Chemicals to Manufacture Methamphetamine.  The charge was a felony of the second degree due to the activity being in the presence of a juvenile.  

Throckmorton is scheduled for arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court in the near future, with a preliminary hearing to follow.  

The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

Two Arrested in Rape Investigation  

The December 2009 session of the Highland County Grand Jury handed down indictments on Cledus D. Lamb, age 48 of Lynchburg, for two counts of Rape and one count each of Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a minor and Kidnapping. The charges stemmed from an investigation from the Lynchburg Police Department alleging sex offenses against Mr. Lamb from several years ago involving a victim that was 15 years old at the time of the crime. Law Enforcement from Highland and Clinton Counties had made several attempts to take Mr. Lamb into custody on the  indictments, without success.  

The victim in the case, who is now an adult, contacted Highland County law enforcement and reported that a family member of Lamb's, Cecilia Taylor age 51 of Fairfield, Ohio, had contacted her and communicated that she would be willing to pay the victim a sum of money in return for dismissing the Rape and Kidnapping charges against Lamb for which he was indicted.  

On February 23, 2010, a meeting was arranged between the victim, Taylor and Lamb at a residence in Clinton County in which Taylor paid the victim $9500.00 in cash to drop the charges. After the money exchange from Taylor to the victim was transacted, law enforcement moved in and effected the arrest of Lamb on the Grand Jury indictment and Taylor for Felony 3 Bribery.  

Both Taylor and Lamb were transported to the Highland County Justice Center where Taylor was arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court and bond was set at $50,000. Lamb was arraigned via video arraignment in Highland County Common Pleas Court on February 24, 2010 and bond was set at $500,000.  

The case against Lamb and Taylor is being investigation by the Highland County Sheriff's Office, the Lynchburg Police Department. The Clinton County Sheriff's Office assisted with the arrest of Lamb and Taylor.  

Two Arrested in Connection with Madison Twp. Burglary  

On Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 11:57 am, Highland County Sheriff deputies stopped a motor vehicle on SR 28 near Ringer Lane in Fairfield Twp. in connection with ongoing investigation into residential burglary and theft cases in Highland, Fayette and Ross Counties over the past several months. As the vehicle was stopped two occupants exited the vehicle and fled into a field. Deputies and the HCSO K-9 gave pursuit and both were apprehended after a short foot pursuit. The two taken into custody were identified as Michael W. Certain age 29 of Greenfield and Jesse M. Binegar age 27 of Greenfield.  

A search of the vehicle revealed two firearms which were later identified as those taken in a residential burglary in the City of Greenfield which occurred on February 10, 2010. Both Certain and Binegar were found to have outstanding warrants from Highland County Court in Greenfield.  

Both Certain and Binegar were taken to the Highland County Justice Center where they were charged with Receiving Stolen Property (Felony 4), Resisting Arrest(M-1) and Binegar was additionally charged with possession of a firearm under a criminal disability (Felony 3).  

Both are being held at the HCJC with Binegar's bond set at $250,000 and Certain's bond set at $75,000. Both will be arraigned on February 16, 2010 in Hillsboro Municipal Court on the most recent charges and then both will be arraigned on February 17, 2010 in County Court in Greenfield on the outstanding warrants.  

HCSO Detectives will be working with area law enforcement in their continuing investigation into the recent burglaries and will be meeting with Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey who will present this case and other cases to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury that may be solved as a result of these arrests. Other arrests are possible in the future as detectives continue their investigation.  

ROBBERY UPDATE

On January 25, 2010, the suspect and suspect vehicle were located in Washington Court House (Fayette County) on the January 23rd armed robbery at the Country Corner Market.  The suspect was taken into custody without incident by the Washington C.H. Police Department.  The suspect has been identified as Ryan L. Funk, age 20, of Jamestown, Ohio.  Funk was charged with one count of Aggravated Robbery, a felony of the first degree.  Funk is currently in custody at the Highland County Justice Center.  He will appear in the near future in Highland County Court for arraignment and a preliminary hearing.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor's Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

MEDIA RELEASE

 On Saturday, January 23, 2010, at approximately 11:59 a.m., a male subject entered the Country Corner Market located on State Route 28, in Madison Township .  The subject brandished a handgun and demanded money.  The suspect fled with an undetermined amount of cash.  The suspect is a white male, possibly in his 20’s, medium height, with stalky build.  He was wearing a green or possibly camouflaged Army style jacket, blue jeans, and white sneakers.  He has short hair and was wearing a dark colored logo t-shirt under the jacket.  The suspect vehicle is an older model small sized pickup truck, red in color (flat paint job), with a blue driver’s door and no front license plate.  

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (937) 393-1421, or you may also contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip Line and leave a message at (937) 840-6243.  

ARRESTS MADE IN METHAMPHETAMINE CASES  

On Wednesday, September 2, 2009, deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office attempted to serve a Grand Jury indictment against Tina L. Hester, age 38, of Hillsboro , for charges relating to the Illegal Assembly of Chemicals to Manufacture Methamphetamine.   

Upon arrival to the area of the residence, deputies came in contact with Timothy J. Tobin, age 27, of Hillsboro .  Timothy J. Tobin was found to have items related to the possession and manufacture of methamphetamine on his person.  Tobin was taken into custody and charged with one count of Possession of Drugs, a felony of the fifth degree.   

Additional information led to the seeking of a search warrant for the Hester residence and a search warrant for the Tobin residence, each located within the city of Hillsboro .  A search by detectives and deputies located additional items related to the manufacture and use of methamphetamine, as well as marijuana.  Several items seized at the Hester residence were turned over to an environmental clean up crew due to being possibly hazardous in nature.  

Also charged with Possession of methamphetamine was Timothy A. Tobin, age 50, of Hillsboro .  These charges were the result of items located at his residence upon execution of a search warrant.  

The Sheriff’s Office continues to seek the whereabouts of Tina L. Hester.  Should anyone have any information they may contact the Sheriff’s Office at (937) 393-1421 or the Highland County Crime Tip Line at (937) 840-6243.  

The cases will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

MARIJUANA GROW LOCATED IN PAINT TOWNSHIP RESIDENCE

 On July 17, 2009, detectives and deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Holiday Way in Paint Township .  The search warrant was the result of an investigation into concerns a marijuana grow operation was underway at this residence.  

Upon execution of the search warrant, nearly 80 plants were discovered growing inside the residence.  A number of items were seized as evidence, including marijuana, drug paraphernalia, items related to the trafficking of marijuana, and gardening supplies used to cultivate the marijuana  

Present at the time of the search and arrested was Justin L. Swisshelm, age 27, of Holiday Way.  Swisshelm was charged with one count of Trafficking in Drugs, a felony of the fifth degree.  An additional member of the household, Crystal L. Watters, age 29,  was not home at the time of the search and was later taken into custody on one count of  Trafficking in Drugs, also a felony of the fifth degree.   

Swisshelm was later released on bond and scheduled to appear for arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court.  A preliminary hearing will take place in the near future for both Swisshelm and Watters.  The case will also be presented to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible on both individuals.

ARRESTS MADE IN METHAMPHETAMINE CASES  

On Wednesday, September 2, 2009, deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office attempted to serve a Grand Jury indictment against Tina L. Hester, age 38, of Hillsboro , for charges relating to the Illegal Assembly of Chemicals to Manufacture Methamphetamine.   

Upon arrival to the area of the residence, deputies came in contact with Timothy J. Tobin, age 27, of Hillsboro .  Timothy J. Tobin was found to have items related to the possession and manufacture of methamphetamine on his person.  Tobin was taken into custody and charged with one count of Possession of Drugs, a felony of the fifth degree.   

Additional information led to the seeking of a search warrant for the Hester residence and a search warrant for the Tobin residence, each located within the city of Hillsboro .  A search by detectives and deputies located additional items related to the manufacture and use of methamphetamine, as well as marijuana.  Several items seized at the Hester residence were turned over to an environmental clean up crew due to being possibly hazardous in nature.  

Also charged with Possession of methamphetamine was Timothy A. Tobin, age 50, of Hillsboro .  These charges were the result of items located at his residence upon execution of a search warrant.  

The Sheriff’s Office continues to seek the whereabouts of Tina L. Hester.  Should anyone have any information they may contact the Sheriff’s Office at (937) 393-1421 or the Highland County Crime Tip Line at (937) 840-6243.  

The cases will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

MARIJUANA GROW LOCATED IN PAINT TOWNSHIP RESIDENCE

 On July 17, 2009, detectives and deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Holiday Way in Paint Township .  The search warrant was the result of an investigation into concerns a marijuana grow operation was underway at this residence.  

Upon execution of the search warrant, nearly 80 plants were discovered growing inside the residence.  A number of items were seized as evidence, including marijuana, drug paraphernalia, items related to the trafficking of marijuana, and gardening supplies used to cultivate the marijuana  

Present at the time of the search and arrested was Justin L. Swisshelm, age 27, of Holiday Way.  Swisshelm was charged with one count of Trafficking in Drugs, a felony of the fifth degree.  An additional member of the household, Crystal L. Watters, age 29,  was not home at the time of the search and was later taken into custody on one count of  Trafficking in Drugs, also a felony of the fifth degree.   

Swisshelm was later released on bond and scheduled to appear for arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court.  A preliminary hearing will take place in the near future for both Swisshelm and Watters.  The case will also be presented to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible on both individuals.

ARREST MADE ON SEXUAL RELATED CASE  

On Friday, December 5, 2008, Detectives and Deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest after a subject requested to meet a 12 year old girl with the intent to engage in sexual related activity.  Robert G. Layne, age 60, of Springfield, Ohio, was taken into custody after he arrived at a Dodson Township location expecting to meet a 12 year old female.  He was met by Highland County Detectives, who had been posing as a 12 year old who was known to Layne.  

The investigation was the result of concerns expressed by the victim and her family that Robert G. Layne was making inappropriate contact with the 12 year old female.  Detectives then posed as the 12 year old and took over the conversation, which led to Layne asking to meet the female.  Additional information led to Layne expressing his intention to have a sexual encounter with the female once they met.  

Robert G. Layne was taken into custody and charged with one count of Attempted Rape, a felony of the first degree, and one count of Attempted Gross Sexual Imposition, a felony of the third degree.  Layne was arraigned before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on December 5, 2008, and was given a $100,000 bond, and no contact with any juvenile without the parents’ written permission.  A preliminary hearing was scheduled for December 11, 2008, in The Hillsboro Municipal Court.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.  

CHARGES FILED RELATING TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

On Thursday, November 27, 2008, the Highland County Sheriff's Office made an arrest relating to the possession of child pornography. Arrested and charged with one county of Pandering Obscenities Involving a Minor, a felony of the fourth degree, was Joel A. Wilson age 31 of Hillsboro. The materials were located after Wilson turned himself in to the Highland County Sheriff's Office for a warrant on an unrelated matter. Several items of evidence were seized, including the image in question. 

Wilson is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center and scheduled to appear for arraignment before the Honorable Judge David McKenna in the Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday, December 1, 2008. the case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor's Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury where additional charges are possible. 

ARREST MADE AFTER ITEMS STOLEN FROM AUCTION  

On Wednesday, October 29, 2008, Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest after items were stolen from a Clay Township auction.  Information was received that James M. Cline Jr., age 54, of Ross County , was at an auction and might leave without paying.  Surveillance was conducted by detectives and James M. Cline Jr. purchased several items that he then loaded into a pickup truck.  Mr. Cline then left the auction without paying for the items, which were valued over $1,300.00.  

James M. Cline Jr. was taken into custody in a traffic stop after leaving the auction.  Mr. Cline has been charged with one count of Theft a felony of the fifth degree based upon the dollar amount of the items taken.  He is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $2,500.00 bond and is scheduled to appear for arraignment before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on October 30, 2008, at 8:00 a.m.  

All items taken were returned to the owners by the Sheriff’s Office.  Mr. Cline is also reportedly a person of interest in other jurisdictions involving similar types of incidents at auctions.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.                 

911 Phase II Upgrades Underway in Highland County  The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has authorized the release of funds from the wireless 911 Government Assistance Fund for the implementation and establishment of wireless enhanced 911 service throughout Highland County. The county has received disbursements from the fund totaling approximately $219,559.00  for the purchase of the equipment, software and installation of the equipment at the Highland County Sheriff's Office for the 911 multi-jurisdictional communications center.  

Highland County filed its enhanced 911 plan on July 24, 2008. The county plans on implementation of the Phase II wireless enhanced 911 service by December 2008. The Phase II upgrade will provide the caller's name and contact number as well as information about the latitude and longitude of the callers location within a few feet. “As we have seen a sharp increase in wireless calls coming into the HCSO 911 Communications Center, this will greatly expand our ability to pinpoint where the call is coming from and render the aid or assistance the caller is requesting in a much more efficient manner, thus enhancing our ability to better serve the public.” stated Sheriff Ron Ward.  

911 calls from residences using a standard land line phone, will be handled in the same manner as previously done under the implementation of Phase I Enhanced 911. The name, address and phone number from where the call originated will still be provided to the 911 communications dispatcher.  

House Bill 361, signed into law on February 1, 2005, provide enhanced 911 service capabilities for wireless phone users throughout the state of Ohio. The Phase II upgrade uses cell tower locations along with the longitude/latitude information of the caller to direct the call to the appropriate PSAP (Public Safety  Answering Point), and in the case in Highland County, the 911 Communications/Dispatch Center located at the HCSO.  

The Phase II upgrades are funded under House Bill 361 with a .32 cent surcharge per wireless line each month. The funds stay in the subscribers county of residence. Wireless providers collect and remit the funds collected from the surcharge each month and they are then deposited into the Wireless 911 Government Assistance Fund. The funds in each county are then allowed to be utilized to cover costs of designing, upgrading, purchasing, leasing, installing or maintaining the necessary data, hardware, software, phone line trunking and training required for the PSAP's to provide enhanced Phase II 911 service.

FUGITIVE CAPTURED BY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

 On September 30, 2008, a deputy with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office on patrol in the area of Panhandle and Horseshoe Road in Union Township attempted to stop a 1989 GMC truck regarding a traffic violation.  Upon attempting to make the stop, the vehicle fled from the deputy and ran off the roadway into a field, where the vehicle crashed a few yards away in a wooded area.  The suspect then fled on foot.  Located in and around the vehicle were items used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, as well as items related to the use of heroin.   The Highland County Sheriff’s Office K-9 was called to the scene and tracked the suspect to a residence on Horseshoe Road , where additional items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine were found.

Both scenes were processed by Highland County Sheriff’s Office detectives for additional evidence.  Investigation into the matter developed a person of interest.  This being Carl W. Eldridge, age 40, of Fairborn , Ohio .  Deputies continued to search for Eldridge and he was later located over night at a Liberty Township residence just outside of Hillsboro .  

Carl W. Eldridge was taken into custody on several outstanding warrants out of the Fairborn Police Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the Brown County Sheriff’s Office.  Eldridge was taken to the Highland County Justice Center where he is currently awaiting extradition to the other jurisdictions.  

The case investigation will continue, with the case then being presented to Highland County Prosecutor James Grandey’s Office for review for possible felony charges, and presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

ARREST MADE ON STOLEN CHECK AND FORGERY CASE  

On September 18, 2008, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office arrested Kurt R. Yochum, age 18, of White Oak Township.  The arrest was the result of a recent investigation by Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and officers with the Bellevue Police Department and Covington Police Department in Kentucky into some missing checks from a Tennessee resident who had been at the Marriott Hotel in Northern Kentucky .  Investigation into the matter connected Kurt Yochum to being in possession of the stolen checks, as well as passing the checks at a local bank.  

Yochum was charged with one count of Receiving Stolen Property, and one count of Forgery, both felonies of the fifth degree.  Yochum was arraigned before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday, September 22, 2008.  He is currently released on a bond of $5,000.00.  He is scheduled to appear for a Preliminary Hearing on October 2, 2008, in Hillsboro Municipal Court.  

The case will also be forwarded to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney James Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

ARREST MADE ON BREAKING AND ENTERING CASES

On September 15, 2008, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office arrested Billy J. Russell Jr., age 21, of Paint Township .  The arrest was the result of a recent investigation by Detectives and Deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office into break-ins of both a business and a residence in Paint Township, and a barn in Fairfield Township.  Investigation led to a Paint Township apartment where the suspect, Billy J. Russell Jr., fled on foot from officers upon their arrival.  After several hours of searching, Russell, was found to be barricaded in his Paint Township apartment, and was taken into custody without incident.  

Further investigation during this same time period led deputies and detectives to another residence of a family member of Russell’s in Brush Creek Township .  Several tools and a motorcycle that were reported stolen in a September 11, 2008, break-in at a Fairfield Township barn were recovered.  After the contact with Russell, additional stolen items were located at his apartment from a Paint Township break-in reported on September 15, 2008.  

Russell has been charged with one count of Breaking and Entering, a felony of the fifth degree.  Russell also had a Failure To Appear warrant out of Hillsboro Municipal Court on a Probation Violation.  Russell appeared on both charges before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court on September 15, 2008.  Russell was sentenced to 30 days in the Highland County Jail on the Probation Violation.  Additionally, his bond was set at $2,500.00 regarding the Breaking and Entering charge.  The case will also be forwarded to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney James Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

INDICTMENT ISSUED ON SEXUAL ABUSE CASE  

On September 9, 2008, the Highland County Grand Jury handed down a multiple count indictment against Gregory S. Straley, age 37, of Washington Court House.  

The 14 count indictment was the result of an investigation conducted by Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, the Wilmington Police Department, and caseworkers with Clinton County Children Services.  The specific counts are four counts of Gross Sexual Imposition all felonies of the third degree, four counts of Rape all felonies of the first degree, five counts of Sexual Battery all felonies of the third degree, and one count of Illegal Use of a Minor in Nudity Oriented Material or Performance a felony of the second degree.  

The indictments stem from allegations that Gregory S. Straley had been involved in sexual activity with a minor female over a period of several years.  

Straley was arrested by the Washington Court House Police Department on September 10, 2008, and transported to the Highland County Justice Center where he is currently being held on a $250,000.00 bond.  Straley is scheduled to appear in Highland County Common Pleas Court for arraignment on September 17, 2008, at 1:00 p.m.

SHERIFF WARD WARNS OF SCAMS TAKING PLACE

 Sheriff Ron Ward would like to warn the citizens of Highland County about lottery and sweepstakes type scams.  Over the past several years, including recently, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office has received information from citizens that they have been contacted regarding the winning of a sweepstakes or lottery.  Most often this is not a situation where the individual has purchased a ticket, or registered for a sweepstakes.  Often the scam involves a fraudulent company sending a check to an individual and asking them to cash or deposit the money and then send in fees or taxes to the sweepstakes.  The individual’s bank will then find the check to be bad and the individual could be out the money.   

The most recent scam was reported from the Rocky Fork Lake area.  This particular individual received a letter and a check from the De Lotto-North American Sweepstakes Lottery.  The check was claiming to be from the Bay Cities Bank in Florida , while the sweepstakes was out of Ontario , Canada .  The individual called the number provided and was told his information was entered into a lottery from a major chain store, such as Walgreen’s, CVS, or Costco, and that he was the winner.  The individual had not given his personal information to any of the listed stores.  

Sheriff Ward warns anyone receiving a letter or check claiming to be from a sweepstakes or lottery they did not enter that this most likely a scam.  Furthermore, if you are contacted and asked to verify personal information over the phone with a company you did not contact, do not give this information out.  Several scams are in place, often connected to what are called Nigerian Scams, where con artists from Nigeria or other foreign countries attempt to seek out financial or personal information in an attempt to gain money or commit other crimes.  Many of these types of scams are perpetrated over the Internet and e-mail.  

For more information on scams and Internet fraud, please visit www.ic3.gov, which is a federal government website concerning fraud reporting and trends.

Two Arrested After Vehicle Thefts and Arson

On Tuesday, September 2, 2008 at 7:33 PM, the Highland County Sheriff's Office received a report of a 1990 Chevrolet truck being stolen from a residence on Griffith Road in New Market Township. An investigation was initiated and information regarding the stolen vehicle was sent to surrounding law enforcement in an effort to locate it. At 9:16 PM, deputies with the HCSO and officers with the Hillsboro Police Department located the stolen 1990 Chevrolet in the 100 block of East Walnut Street in Hillsboro. At 8:55 PM, the HCSO Communications Center dispatched the Lynchburg Area Joint Fire District to a vehicle fire on Rammell Road just North of US 50 in Dodson Township. Upon the response to the vehicle fire, it was discovered that it was a 1973 Chevrolet truck that had been stolen from a business on North Elm Street in Hillsboro. 

HCSO deputies and detectives followed several leads in the case throughout the evening and night and culminated with the arrest of two individuals. They are identified as Jarrod Messer Jr., age 18 of Goshen and Richard J. Smith, age 18 of Wilmington. 

Both are currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center and are each charged with one count of Arson, a 4th degree felony and two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, also a 4th degree felony. Both will appear for their initial arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Wednesday, September 3, 2008. Their bonds have been set at $15,000 each. The case remains under investigation and will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are possible. 

Sheriff Ward Introduces Crime Tip-Line

Sheriff Ron Ward has created a crime tip-line for the public to utilize to report information regarding possible crimes and illegal activity.  

The community is a valuable tool in learning of crimes and reporting information that might in turn solve crime.  Without the assistance of the citizens of Highland County, some crimes take longer to solve or may even go unsolved.  By providing the community with an alternative means to report information, including reporting anonymously, the Sheriff’s Office hopes to continue a good partnership with the community.   

The purpose of the tip-line is not for active emergencies, but provides a way for the public to leave information on cases that might already be open, or regarding wanted fugitives.  The tip-line is not meant to replace direct contact and citizens may continue to report crime leads directly to the Sheriff’s Office dispatch center.  One of the biggest challenges law enforcement face in the investigation of crime is lack of information.  Sheriff Ward hopes the new tip-line will be yet another way citizens can provide valuable information to the Sheriff’s Office.  

The crime tip line is being introduced in conjunction with an upcoming campaign against methamphetamine that will include billboards around the county in the upcoming weeks.  The billboards are part of a methamphetamine grant provided by the United States Department of Justice.  Highland County was one of four Ohio locations to receive the grant.  

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip-Line can be reached at (937)840-6243.  Upon calling the number, the caller will reach a voicemail box that is checked on a daily basis.  Callers are encouraged to provide as many details as possible to assist detectives in following up on the information.  Callers may choose to remain anonymous.

MARIJUANA ERADICATION EFFORTS UNDERWAY IN HIGHLAND COUNTY

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office in cooperation with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) Narcotics Unit spent August 25^th and August 26^th, flying Highland County in an attempt to locate outdoor marijuana grows.  The two day search brought the number of plants located this season to over 1,600 plants.  This included over 170 plants located on State Route 138 growing on the Federal Land located at Rattlesnake Creek at the edge of Madison Township .

As a result of the two day search, at least three different individuals are facing criminal charges for the cultivation of marijuana.  These locations were in New Market, Brush Creek and Washington Townships , where plants were located growing close to a particular residence.

Marijuana eradication efforts have been taking place in Highland County for over 21 years on a regular basis.  Prior to 1987, eradication took place on occasion with the assistance of the National Guard chopper when it was available.  Starting in 1987, Highland County began to use aircraft on a regular basis to fly for marijuana.  The largest number of plants was approximately 3,500 located in 1990.  The average number of marijuana plants located in a season is between 400 to 600 plants.  The plants located this year make 2008, the largest find since the mid 1990’s.  

The estimated street value for the over 1,600 marijuana plants located this year is close to $1 million dollars.  

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office will continue its efforts to eradicate marijuana for the remainder of the growing season.  These efforts are a proactive response to reduce the availability of marijuana in Highland County and the surrounding areas.  Marijuana is a commonly used and therefore, abused drug.  Marijuana can impair an individual’s judgment, ability to operate a motor vehicle, create short-term memory loss, and make it difficult to complete complex tasks.         

CHARGES FILED AFTER BOMB MAKING MATERIALS LOCATED  

On August 19, 2008, Deputies and Detectives went to the 900 block of Robbins Road in Clay Township after receiving a court order to go to this location and seize weapons.  Further investigation led to the discovery of several items related to the manufacturing of explosive devices.  The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Disposal Unit was dispatched for assistance.  These items were seized by the bomb unit due to it being illegal to possess such items, as well as the danger involved in storing such items, and their capability.  “All the components were there to make several explosive devices” stated Sheriff Ward.  “Deputies removed sixteen M203 grenade cartridges, several assault rifles, and thousands of rounds of ammunition” continued Ward.  Also located during the search were items related to the possession and use marijuana, including marijuana plants.  Numerous firearms and ammunition were also seized as part of the court order.  

Harold D. Short, age 55, of Clay Township, was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Dangerous Ordnance, a felony of the fifth degree; Illegal Cultivation of Marijuana, a minor misdemeanor; and Drug Paraphernalia, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.  Harold D. Short is currently being held under no bond at the Highland County Justice Center and is scheduled to appear in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on August 20, 2008.  Harold D. Short was already in custody due to an Aggravated Menacing charge pending against him that had been filed.  

The case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office regarding the felony charges and will be presented to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

Wanted Person Located in Pennsylvania

 Miguel Espericueta, a wanted person out of Highland County , has been located in Pennsylvania .  On August 13, 2008, the Pennsylvania State Police received word that Miguel Espericueta was working at a job site located in Indiana County , which is approximately one hour northeast of Pittsburgh .  The Pennsylvania State Police were able to make contact with Espericueta and he was taken into custody.  Espericueta is currently being housed in the Indiana County Pennsylvania Jail and is awaiting extradition back to Ohio .   

The arrest came at the same time that the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received information on the crime tip-line that Espericeuta may be in the Blairsville, Pennsylvania area, which is also located in Indiana County .  Detectives had provided the information to the Blairsville Police Department, who were attempting to locate Espericueta.   

The specific warrants for Espericueta are a felony probation violation and a felony Grand Jury indictment for Failure to Register as a Sexual Offender.  Espericueta was previously convicted in Highland County Common Pleas Court of Gross Sexual Imposition, a felony of the third degree.  The conviction was the result of a guilty plea after Espericueta was indicted by the Highland County Grand Jury on a multiple count sexual related indictment involving sexual activity with a juvenile.  Espericueta was sentenced on April 27, 2005, and sent to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections.  In November 2005, Espericueta was released from prison on Judicial Release and was deported to Mexico in December 2005.  In April 2006, it was learned Espericueta had returned to Ohio , and was in Highland County at that time.  Detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation at that time and it was learned Espericueta had fled the area with his whereabouts unknown at that time.  

Please Note: A photograph of Espericueta can be found on our website by visiting www.highlandcoso.com then select the “Wanted” section.

Indictment  Issued On Embezzlement Case

On August 5, 2008, the Highland County Grand Jury issued an indictment against Amelia Jean Fields, age 54, of Hamer Township .  The indictment was the result of a several month investigation by detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office into allegations that Amelia Fields was embezzling money from a New Market Township church where she had been serving as treasurer for a number of years.  

The specific counts of the indictment were one count of Theft, a felony of the fourth degree due to the dollar amount being over $5,000.00, and four counts of Forgery, each a felony of the fifth degree.  The charges were the result of Amelia Fields using church money for personal gain or use, as well as Ms. Fields forging another’s signature to some of the checks.  

Amelia Jean Fields is scheduled for arraignment in Highland County Common Pleas Court on August 20, 2008, at 1:00 p.m.  Ms. Fields is currently not in custody, being released on a summons to appear in court.  

Deputies Seize More Than 500 Marijuana Plants in Washington Township

In one of the largest marijuana busts from a single location in more than a decade, Highland County Sheriff's deputies pulled 556 Marijuana plants from a secluded location in Washington Township on Thursday, August 7, 2008.

Located in 10 different plots consisting of 40-80 plants each in a two acre wooded area on Bennington Road and ranging in size from two feet to five feet tall. These plants represent the largest single site marijuana field found in Highland county since the late 1990's. Deputies spent several hours pulling and destroying the plants. 

"Most of the locations we find marijuana growing have 10 to 20 plants in them." stated Sheriff Ron Ward, "It's not very often we as large a grow operation as we found on Bennington Road." Another location on State Route 138 in the Paint Creek area netted 108 plants earlier in the week. 

"Calls from concerned citizens about suspicious activity brought both of these areas to our attention" continued Sheriff Ward. "Citizens gave us enough specific information on both of these sites to allow our deputies to locate them". 

Marijuana plants, when grown to maturity, are valued at approximately $1500 each. The 556 plants removed from Bennington Road and the 108 plants from State Route 138 represent just under $1,000,000 in street value if processed and sold. "We're always glad to get that much product off the streets and out of the hands of our children" stated Ward. 

The Sheriff's office has recently introduced a new crime tip-line, 937-840-6243, where citizens can call in and leave information about possible crimes and illegal activity. The Sheriff's office has already received numerous calls and all tips are followed up on. Sheriff Ward encourages any citizens with information to call the tip-line or the Sheriff's Office. 

ARRESTS MADE ON BREAK IN OF PAINT TOWNSHIP BUSINESS  

On May 19, 2008, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office was able to identify a suspect from a break in of a Paint Township business.

During the early morning hours of May 13, 2008, the Rocky Fork Truck Stop was entered by two suspects. The suspects took a large amount of cigarettes and tobacco products. Investigation by Highland County Sheriff’s Office Detectives has lead to the identification of one of the suspects. At this time, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warrant for the arrest of Leonard Kris Lowery, age 23, of Ross County. Also located was the suspect vehicle, which was seized by detectives on May 15, 2008, from a girlfriend of Lowery’s in Ross County.

The specific warrant at this time is for one count of Robbery, a felony of the second degree.

Lowery is listed as a white male, approximately five foot eleven inches tall, 203 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. 

Lowery is known to frequent the Huntington Township area of Ross County, as well as the Bainbridge area, and the area of State Route 207 north of Chillicothe. Anyone with any information as to the whereabouts of Leonard Kris Lowery is encouraged to contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (937) 393-1421.

INFORMATION BEING SOUGHT

Information is being sought into the identity of two subjects who broke into a Paint Township business during the early morning hours of May 13, 2008.  Security footage captured the above photo of one of the subjects.  The subjects took several items, including cigarettes and tobacco products.  The subjects then fled the scene.  Anyone with any information pertaining to the identity of these two subjects is encouraged to contact the Detective Division of the Highland County Sheriff's Office at (937) 393-1421.

Arrest Made On Sexual Assault

On May 6, 2008 the Highland County Grand Jury handed down indictments on John and Mary Greiner of Dodson Township regarding a sexual abuse case.

Both individuals were arrested by the Wilmington Police Department on May 9, 2008 in regards to the indictments. The indictments are the result of an investigation by Highland County detectives into concerns that John Greiner had sexual activity with a family member over  a period of several years. The family member was a child at the time and the events took place from when the victim was approximately five years of age until she was approximately 16 years of age. The victim is now an adult. The indictments for Mary Greiner involved her knowledge of the situation and lack of protection to the child involved at the time. 

John N. Greiner, age 49 was charged with one count of Rape, a felony of the first degree, one count of Sexual Battery, a felony of the second degree and one count of Gross Sexual Imposition, a felony of the fourth degree. 

Mary A. Greiner, age 46 was charged with one count of Complicity to Rape, a felony of the first degree, one count of Complicity to Sexual Battery, a felony of the second degree and one count of complicity to Gross Sexual Imposition, a felony of the fourth degree. 

Both John and Mary Greiner are currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $32,500.00 bond. They are scheduled for arraignment in Highland County Common Pleas Court on May 21, 2008 at 1:00 PM. 

Three People Arrested After Drugs Found in Home 

On May 6, 2008, Highland County Sheriff’s Deputies along with Agents with the Ohio Adult Parole Authority, went to a residence located at 6964 Ervin Rd. Liberty Township in an effort to locate a wanted fugitive on Parole from Warren County, Ohio. Upon arrival at the residence, deputies located the fugitive, Jennifer M. Isaacs age 23 and she was taken into custody without incident. A second person, also on parole was located in the residence and taken into custody on a parole violation, was identified as Michelle N. Stevenson age 20 of Hillsboro. Agents with APA conducted a search of the home and located several grams of crack cocaine, numerous firearms, over $2000.00 cash and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. The owner of the residence, Gary J. Quarles II age 46 was also at the residence and arrested. Deputies also found two children in the home, ages 3 and 3 weeks, which were removed by HCSO Detectives and custody of those children were remanded to Highland County Children Services.  All three individuals were taken to the Highland County Justice Center where Quarles and Stevenson were each charged with one count of Drug Abuse, a 4^th degree felony and Isaacs was held on a parole violation holder and will be returned to Warren County.  

Quarles and Stevenson are being held under $2500.00 bond each and will make their initial appearance in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Wednesday May 7, 2008 at 8:00 am. The case will be referred to the Highland County Prosecutors Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury where additional charges are likely. 

*Mugshots of all three are available upon request  

Two More Arrests In Connection With Pop Machine Break-Ins

 Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward reports that two more arrests have been made in connections with the recent rash of pop machine break-ins in and around Highland County. Mary E. Ross age 26 of Salyersville, Ky and Carol A. Bolling age 33 of Hillsboro have been arrested and charged with Complicity to Tampering with Coin Machines, a 5^th degree felony. Both are lodged in the Highland County Jail under $2500.00 bond and will be arraigned on Wednesday April 30, 2008 at 8:00am in Hillsboro Municipal Court. Their cases will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutors Office where they will be presented to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury where additional charges are possible. 

*Mugshots available upon request

Kentucky Man Arrested After Several Area Pop Machines Broken Into

On April 23, 2008 Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and The Hillsboro Police Department received information from the public regarding area businesses that have been recently targeted with their pop machines being broken into after hours and money removed. Detectives following up on the information provided, resulted in contacting an individual who was staying at the Greystone Motel on US 50 east of Hillsboro. That individual was identified as David R. Collins age 34 of Salyersville, Kentucky. Upon further investigation at the Greystone Motel, several items and tools used in illegally entering pop machines were located in a room. Evidence recovered has lead investigators to believe that Collins is involved with pop machine break-ins in Highland, Brown and Adams County as well as several in the State of Kentucky. Highland County Law Enforcement will be working with those jurisdictions in an effort to clear as many of these cases as possible, as there appears to be a large amount. Collins was immediately charged with one count of Possession of Criminal Tools, a 5^th degree felony. Collins appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on April 24, 2008 where his bind was set at $25,000. As detectives from HCSO and HPD continue to investigate, they will be working with Highland County Prosecutor James Grandey where the case will be presented to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are likely against Collins. Sheriff Ward reminds citizens of Highland County to continue to call with information regarding criminal activity in Highland County, as this is case is an example of information provided by the public directly resulted in several cases being cleared and suspect being arrested.

Five People Arrested After Search Warrant Served At Hillsboro Residence

 On Monday April 21, 2007 at 2:00 pm, Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and an officer with the Hillsboro Police Department served a search warrant at a residence located at 393 East Main St. in the City of Hillsboro. The search warrant was issued as the result a six week investigation into the Trafficking of Heroin in Highland County. Upon the execution of the search warrant several empty heroin capsules, syringes, seven firearms and other drug paraphernalia were located within the residence. Five people were immediately arrested they were: 

• Terry Quickle, age 31 of Hillsboro. Charged with one count of Trafficking Heroin within 1000 ft. of a School, a 4^th Degree Felony. Bond Set at $200,000 

• Kenneth Quickle, age 29 of Hillsboro. Charged with one count of Trafficking Heroin within 1000 ft. of a School, a 4^th Degree Felony. Bond Set at $200,000 

• Kimberly Quickle, age 29 of Hillsboro. Charged with one count of Possessing Drug Abuse Instruments, a 2^nd Degree Misdemeanor. Released on an OR Bond. 

• Julie Quickle, age 29 of Hillsboro. Charged with one count of Possessing Drug Abuse Instruments, 2^nd Degree Misdemeanor. Release on an OR Bond 

• Casey W. Patton, age 22 of Hillsboro. Charges with one count of Possessing Drug Abuse Instrument, a 2^nd Degree Misdemeanor. Bond set at $750.00 and also being held on a Probation Violation from Hillsboro Municipal Court. 

All five individual arrested will be arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Wednesday April 23, 2008 at 8:00 am. The case is still under active investigation and will presented to the Highland County Prosecutors Office where it will be presented to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury where additional charges are likely.

Two Arrested After Search Warrant Served at Paint Township Residence 

On Friday April 11, 2008 at approximately 7:30 PM, deputies and detectives served a search warrant at a residence located at 7410 Beechwood Rd. in Paint Twp. The search warrant was a result of ongoing investigations into the trafficking of illegal drugs throughout Highland County. Upon execution of the search warrant, several grams of crack cocaine were found along with cash and drug paraphernalia. Two individuals at the residence when the search warrant was served were charged. They were identified as Megan Butcher age 22 of Hillsboro and Kevin A. Jones age 41 of Xenia, Ohio. Butcher was charged with Felony 5 Possession of Drugs with a bond of $1500.00. Jones was charged with Felony 2 Possession of Drugs with bond set at $250,000. Jones is also currently under indictment in Greene County for Possession of Heroin and Possession of Criminal Tools. He also he a lengthy criminal history. Both Butcher and Jones will be arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court of Monday April 14, 2008 at 8:00 am. The case is still under investigation and additional arrests are likely as well as additional felony charges against Butcher and Jones when the Highland County Grand Jury hears evidence in the case.

Multiple Indictments Handed Down By Special Grand Jury After A Two Year Undercover Drug Investigation In The Greenfield Area 

Highland County Sheriff Ronald D. Ward and Prosecutor Jim Grandey announce that a special grand jury was convened on Monday March 31, 2008 to hear evidence resulting from a two-year undercover drug investigation conducted by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, Greenfield Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office and the Pipeline 23 Major Crimes Task Force in the City of Greenfield and surrounding areas. The Grand Jury indicted 8 individuals on 59 Felony Criminal Counts involving the Distribution, Transport and Possession of Illicit Drugs, including Crack Cocaine, Cocaine and Marijuana. The cases were also investigated and will be prosecuted as criminal enterprise cases under Ohio Law, also known as Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity, which is structured after the Federal RICO Act (Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization).  “Some of these individuals are from the Dayton Area and came to Greenfield during the course of the investigation and set up shop with some of our local drug dealers for the purpose of distributing large amounts of drugs into our community” stated Sheriff Ron Ward. “This longstanding covert investigation led us to the big players involved which ultimately resulted in these indictments and will directly and adversely effect the pipeline of illegal drugs into Highland County” Ward also stated.   

These indictments come nearly one year to the date that 39 people were indicted on 78 felony drug counts throughout Highland County after an undercover drug investigation. “These new indictments are an extension of the work done one year ago. A lot of work has been done over the past year to tie individuals and enterprises together in the effort to go after the source of the illegal drugs in Greenfield and shut their enterprise down and put them in jail, potentially for many years.” Ward stated. 

Those indicted and arrested were: 

- Stephanie Ford, age 41 of Greenfield, Bond set  at $5,000

     1 count of Trafficking in Drugs (Felony 3)

- Notashia Nelson, age 24 of Greenfield, Bond set at $1500

    1 Count of Permitting Drug Abuse (Felony 5)

- Byron Dun, age 25 of Hillsboro, bond posted at  $2500

   1 Count of Trafficking in Drugs (Felony 4)

-Daniel Wallace, age 24 of Dayton, Ohio  Bond set at $197,000

 1 Count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt     Activity (Felony 1)

 6 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs (Felonies 2,3    and 4)

 3 Counts of Possession of Drugs (Felonies 1, 4 and 5)

- Arthur Johnson, age 25 of Greenfield, Bond set at $25,000

1 Count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (Felony 1)

 2 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs (Felonies 4 and 5)

-Thomas Peters age 27 of Dayton, Ohio Bond set at $194,000

 1 Count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (Felony 1)

 25 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs (Felonies 1,2,3,4 and 5)

2 Counts of Possession of Drugs (Felonies 1 and 5)

1 Count of Tampering with Evidence (Felony 3)

1 Count of Intimidation of a Witness (Felony 3)

-Jordan Evans age 21 of Greenfield  Bond set at $46,500 (Currently in Ross Co. Jail)

1 Count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (Felony 1)

3 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs (Felonies 4 and 5)

1 Count of Possession of Drugs (Felony 1)

-Mario Core, age 28 of Dayton, Ohio Currently at Large

1 Count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (Felony 1)

4 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs (Felonies 2 and 3)

1 Count of Obstructing Official Business (Felony 5) 

All individuals indicted have been arrested with the exception of Mario Core. If anyone has any information on his whereabouts, please contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office. All of these individuals will be arraigned in Highland County Common Pleas Court on April 7, 2008 at 1:00 pm.     

BURGLARY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST

 On March 7, 2008 the Highland County Sheriff’s Office investigated a Burglary that occurred to a White Oak Township resident in the Village of Mowrystown. Since this incident investigators have been following up on leads. On April 1, 2008 the Highland County Sheriff’s office conducted searches of two different Brown County residences and located stolen items from the White Oak Township Burglary. Further investigation by investigators lead to the recovery of two firearms stolen from this Burglary. Arrested and charged with one count of Burglary, a felony of the second degree, was Roy Stephan Cole age 21 of Sardinia, Ohio. Cole is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $17,500.00 cash or surety bond and is scheduled to appear in the Hillsboro Municipal Court at 8:00 a.m. April 2, 2008 for his arraignment. This case will be forwarded to Highland County Prosecutor James Grandey for his review, where it will then be presented to the upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are expected.

SEXUAL OFFENDER ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER

 On Wednesday, March 26, 2008, Charles Jay Spurlock was arrested by the Beavercreek Police Department in Greene County, Ohio, on a warrant out of Highland County for Failing to Register as a Sexual Offender. 

Spurlock, age 37, was originally convicted of Attempted Rape in Brown County Ohio in 2000.  Spurlock had registered with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office as a Tier III Sexual Offender, and then became at large, failing to register a change of address.  A felony warrant was issued for Spurlock on March 24, 2008. 

Spurlock is also under the supervision of the Ohio Adult Parole Authority (A.P.A.) and was considered at large by the A.P.A. for failing to comply with the terms of his supervision. 

Spurlock will be brought back to Highland County, where he will be scheduled for arraignment in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before The Honorable Judge David McKenna. Spurlock currently has a $20,000.00 bond.  The case will also be forwarded to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney James Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, as the charge involves a felony.

Reward Offered After Individual Assaulted 

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a felonious assault that took place on Sunday March 16, 2008 at approximately 5:20 pm in the Enchanted Hills Subdivision near Rocky Fork Lake in Paint Twp. A maintenance worker for the Enchanted Hills Homeowners Association confronted a female that was using the association dumpster without permission. She left and returned with a male and the two then assaulted the maintenance worker with a ball bat and a beer bottle. The maintenance worker was transported to Highland District Hospital by the Hillsboro Life squad with non-life threatening injury treated and released. 

The vehicle the two were seen in is a late model Black Chevrolet Monte Carlo with fancy style rims. The male is described as late 20’s to early 30’s, thin build and long black hair pulled back and a large gauge earring. The female is described as approximately 30 yrs old, blond hair, 5 ½ ft., and 140 lbs. The female has been seen in the area before that leads investigators with the HCSO to believe that the suspects live in or near the area of the assault.     

The Enchanted Hills Homeowners Association has offered $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of these individuals involved in this assault. If you have information regarding this, please contact the Detective Division of the HCSO at 393-1421. Any information will be kept confidential.

UPDATED 03/19/07 @ 3:30 PM

Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward reports that on March 19, 2008, that charges were filed on the victim of this case for Filing a false report and inducing panic. Sheriff Ward stated that several things during the investigation did not add up and raised red flags about the truthfulness of the assault. As a result, John Hartman age 39 of the Lake Area admitted he made up the story about being assaulted. He will be arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court on March 20, 2008 at 8:00 AM. Sheriff Ward wants to thank the citizens of the lake area who reported several leads in the case and to the Enchanted Hills Homeowners Association who put a $500 reward for information in the case.  

 Two Arrested After Theft of Cigarettes From Local Market

On Sunday March 9, 2008 two males entered the JP Market in the Village of Sinking Spring. One male distracted the employee as the other entered an area of the store used for storage and removed 15 cartons of cigarettes. Both males then left the store. It was later found by the owners of the store, that the cigarettes were missing. In store video was reviewed and a description of the suspects and suspect vehicle were obtained. On March 10, 2008, the same two males entered the same store and attempted to so the same as the day before, but were unsuccessful. The employee was then able to secure a license number of the vehicle and called the Highland County Sheriff’s Office. The vehicle was later located at a residence in the Western Part of Ross County where it was secured and a search warrant was obtained where several items of evidentiary value were obtained and will be examined by BCI. The two suspects in the in-store video were identified as Quentin Binegar age 32 of Greenfield and Aaron W. Smith age 23 of Chillicothe. 

 On March 11, 2008 Smith was located and arrested at his apartment in Chillicothe by the Ross County Sheriff’s Office and agents from the Pipeline 23 Major Crimes Task Force. Also on March 11, 2008 Deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office along with the Greenfield Police Department received information of the whereabouts of Binegar and he was located hiding in a house in the 300 block of Jefferson Street and arrested. Also found at the house with Binegar was Brittany L. Baxter age 25 of Bainbridge. She was arrested for an outstanding Felony Warrant from Fayette County. 

Binegar and Smith were both charged with Breaking and Entering, a Felony 5 and Grand Theft, a felony 5. Binegar was also held on a Parole Violation issued by the Adult Parole Authority due to prior felony convictions. Both appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on March 12, 2008 where Smith’s bond was set at $10,000 and Binegar was denied bond due to the Parole Violation. Both are scheduled for a Preliminary Hearing on March 20, 2008 at 9 am in Hillsboro Municipal Court. The case will be referred to The Highland County Prosecutors Office where it will be heard by an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.  

THREE SEX OFFENDERS INDICTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER

 On March 4, 2008, the Highland County Grand Jury handed down indictments against three sex offenders after each failed to register with the Sheriff’s Office.  The indictments are the result of the Highland County Sheriff’s Office conducting address verifications, as well as receiving information that at least one offender was not registered where he had reported.

 The following are those indicted: 

Ernest D. Jones, age 43, was indicted on one count of Failure To Register, a felony of the third degree.  Jones was originally convicted in Highland County Common Pleas Court of Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor in March 2002, which required him to register as a sexual offender in the county he chose to live in.  Jones is currently classified as Tier II sex offender based upon the recent Adam Walsh Act. – Arrested 3/4/08 

Jonathan E. Ramsey, age 32, was indicted on one count of Failure To Register, a felony of the third degree.  Ramsey was originally convicted in Clermont County in 1998 of Sexual Battery.  Ramsey is currently classified as a Tier III sex offender based upon the recent Adam Walsh Act. This individual is at large. 

Michael D. Jarnigan, age 26, was indicted on one count of Failure To Register, a felony of the third degree.  Jarnigan was originally convicted of Corruption of a Minor (now known as Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor) in Highland County Common Pleas Court in 2000.  Jarnigan is currently classified as a Tier II sex offender based upon the recent Adam Walsh Act. – Arrested on 2/20/08 

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is committed to monitoring any sex offenders registered in Highland County.  Sheriff Ward welcomes anyone who has information about a sex offender who has relocated and not reported his or her address, to contact the SORN Deputy or the Detective Division at (937) 393-1421.  Additional information regarding registered sexual offenders can be found on the Sheriff’s Office web site at www.highlandcoso.com.  This includes a list of registered offenders living in Highland County and information about the recent changes in the law.

Two Arrested for Damaging Mailboxes

On Saturday, March 1, 2008 at 1:05 AM, the Highland County Sheriff's Office received a report from a resident in the 9300 block of Stoney Point Road in Liberty Township that their mailbox had just been damaged. The resident also reported that the vehicle involved was leaving the area and traveling toward St Rt 138 on Stoney Point Road. A deputy with the Highland County Sheriff's Office spotted a truck westbound on St Rt 138 matching the description of the suspect vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The deputy found two individuals and an aluminum baseball bat in the bed of truck. The individuals were identified as Kasey Martin, age 19 and Emerson Willis, age 20, both of Hillsboro. The driver of the vehicle was found to be a 16 year old male and there were also two female passengers all of Hillsboro. The witness to the damaging of the mailbox positively identified the vehicle involved. 

Both Martin and Willis were charged with Criminal Damaging, a misdemeanor of the second degree. They will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna. The case will be forwarded the Highland County Prosecutors Office in regards to possible charges on the driver and juvenile passengers in the cab of the truck. 

Upon checking the area, deputies have located at least four other mailboxes that were damaged and additional charges are possible. 

Search Warrant Yields Several Pounds of Marijuana and Two Arrests 

On Wednesday, January 22, 2008 at 1:15 PM, Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and Hillsboro Police Department executed a search warrant at 102 West Josie Ave. in Hillsboro. The search warrant was issued as a result of ongoing investigations into the Trafficking of Drugs in Highland County. 

The search warrant yielded over five pounds of processed marijuana, three semi-automatic handguns, over $5000.00 in cash and several items of drugs paraphernalia to include several sets of scales and plastic baggies. The HCSO also seized three vehicles as a result of the search warrant being executed. 

Arrested and charged with Trafficking in Drugs, a Felony 4 were: 

Justin K. Anderson age 21

Joshua F. Molter age 25 

Both Anderson and Molter lived at the residence of the search warrant. Both individuals arrested are being held at the Highland County Justice Center under $25,000 Bond. They will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Thursday  January 24, 2008 at 8:00 am for their initial arraignment. The case will be turned over to the Highland County Prosecutors Office where it will be presented to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are possible.

Retired Highland County Sheriff Walter R. Reffitt Passes Away

Highland County Sheriff Ronald D. Ward regrets to announce the passing of retired Highland County Sheriff Walter R. Reffitt, age 82. Sheriff Reffitt passed away on January 16, 2008 after a lengthy illness. He served as Chief of Police for the city of Hillsboro from 1950 until 1955. He was elected Highland County Sheriff in 1957 and served in that capacity for 20 years until his retirenment in 1977. The services for Sheriff Reffitt are as follows:

Visitation: Sunday, January 20, 2008  from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Masonic and F.O.P. Services will follow

Funeral: Monday, January 21, 2008 at 2:00 PM with burial to follow at the Hillsboro Cemetary.

All services for Sheriff Reffitt will be held at the Miller-Thompson Funeral Home located at 241 East Main Street, Hillsboro, Ohio.

Any Officer/Deputy attending F.O.P. Services or funeral, Uniform of the Day will be observed.

INVESTIGATION LEADS INTO TWO METHAMPHETAMINE SEARCH WARRANTS

On January 9, 2008, deputies went to a residence on Ross Road in Penn Township in order to attempt pickup on Christopher Blackburn, age 23.  Upon arrival, contact was made with Blackburn and further investigation lead into detectives seeking a search warrant for Blackburn’s residence.  Upon conducting a search detectives located numerous items relating to the production and use of methamphetamine.  Additionally, methamphetamine was located on the person of Christopher Blackburn.   

Christopher Blackburn was charged with one count of Drug Possession, a felony of the fifth degree.  Blackburn appeared for arraignment before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court on January 10, 2008.  Blackburn is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on January 17, 2008, and is currently incarcerated at the Highland County Justice Center on a $50,000.00 bond.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible. 

Upon conducting further investigation, deputies and detectives received information of possible meth activity in the area of McVey Road in Fairfield Township.  Deputies and Detectives went to the area of McVey Road and upon arrival, a vehicle was seen leaving the area that had previously been reported as a possible location of methamphetamine activity.  A traffic stop was attempted and the vehicle fled from the officer.  A short pursuit ensued and the driver of the vehicle crashed his vehicle in Clinton County.  The driver was identified as Maurice Todd Estep, age 38, of McVey Road.  Observations of the crash scene lead to the discovery of several items used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.  As a result, a search warrant was sought and obtained for Estep’s residence on McVey Road.  A search of this property resulted in the location of numerous items relating to the manufacture of methamphetamine at two different locations on the property.  All items were seized, and all hazardous materials were removed from the scene by an environmental clean up crew.  Finished methamphetamine was also located during this search.  The following agencies assisted the Highland County Sheriff’s Office regarding the scene: Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Clinton-Highland North Joint Fire District, and Hillsboro Fire and Rescue. 

Maurice Todd Estep was charged with Illegal Assembly of Chemicals, a felony of the third degree.  Estep appeared for arraignment before The Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court on January 10, 2008.  Estep is currently under a $50,000.00 bond and is being held at the Highland County Justice Center.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible. 

Sheriff Ward continues to encourage citizens of Highland County to contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office with any information regarding methamphetamine activity in the county.  The Highland County Sheriff’s Office will vigorously continue its efforts to investigate and eradicate methamphetamine from Highland County.  Citizen information is one way we can all assist in the effort to combat this epidemic.  The Sheriff’s Office may be reached at 393-1421.

Three Arrested After Stolen Property Found

On January 2, 2008 at 8:30 pm Detectives with the Highland, Ross and Fayette County Sheriff’s Offices and officers from the Greenfield Police Department served a search warrant at a residence at 213 S. 7^th St. in Greenfield. The search warrant was the result of ongoing investigations into residential and business burglaries over the past several weeks in the respective jurisdictions. The search warrant resulted in the recovery of several thousand dollars worth of property from at least (6) six burglaries in Highland, Ross and Fayette Counties. Detectives are currently reviewing other open cases in their respective jurisdictions and working with crime victims in an effort to identify the vast amount of property and return it to the rightful owners. 

As a result of this investigation, Highland County Detectives have charged the three following  individuals with one count of Receiving Stolen Property, a 5th degree felony:

Terry Hester age 23 of Greenfield

Amanda Adkins age 22 of Greenfield

Timothy Estle age 18 of Bainbridge 

All three are being held on $100,000.00 bond and will make their initial appearance in Highland County Court in Greenfield on Monday January 7, 2008. These cases remain under active investigation and additional charges and arrests are likely.

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO METH RELATED CHARGES

On Sunday, November 25, 2007, a search warrant was executed by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office at 6075 Clark Road in Concord Township. 

Upon conducting a search of the residence, deputies and detectives discovered numerous items relating to the manufacture of methamphetamine, as well as a small amount of finished product.  Several items of evidence were seized, including a firearm.  All hazardous materials were removed from the scene by a hazardous materials clean up crew.  Arrested and charged with one count of Illegal Assembly, a felony of the third degree, was Mack “Pete” Wooten, age 38, of 6075 Clark Road.  

As a result of the Clark Road search warrant, information was received that lead to a second arrest regarding this case.   A deputy, along with an officer from the Ohio Adult Parole Authority made contact with James A. Guisinger, age 38, of Leesburg.  Upon making contact with Guisinger, it was found he was connected to the Clark Road meth activity.  Additional evidence was seized after the contact with Guisinger.  James A. Guisinger was also charged with Illegal Assembly, a felony of the third degree. 

Both Wooten and Guisinger were taken to the Highland County Justice Center and are currently each under a $70,000.00 bond.  Both were scheduled to appear in The Hillsboro Municipal Court for arraignment before The Honorable Judge David McKenna on November 26, 2007, at 8:00 a.m.  Additionally, the Ohio Adult Parole Authority placed James A. Guisinger under a holder.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

Two Arrested After Penn Township Home is Burglarized 

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two suspects after the investigation into a home burglary in the 9000 block of State Route 138 in Penn Township.

The burglary was reported to the HCSO on November 20, 2007 at 2:48 PM. At the time of the initial report, it was found that the home had been forcibly entered during the time the residents were away, and several items stolen from the home.  

Upon subsequent follow-up to the burglary case, several items removed from the house were recovered from a residence in Madison Twp. and two people were taken into custody. They were: 

Toby E. Short age 43 of Leesburg

Tyler A. Trent age 19 of Greenfield 

Both were charged with Felony 2 Burglary. Trent was also wanted on an outstanding Indictment from Highland County on another count of Burglary and Theft. Short is being held in the Highland County Jail on $7500.00 bond and Trent was released after posting $15,000.00 bond on the current Burglary count and on the previous indictment. Both will make their initial appearance in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday November 26, 2007 at 8:00 AM. The case will be sent to the Highland County Prosecutors office where it will be heard by and upcoming session of the Grand Jury where additional charges and arrests are possible.

 Two Arrested After Search Warrant Served on Washington Township Home 

On November 19, 2007 at 10:23 am, deputies and detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and the Hillsboro Police Department served a search warrant at 9821 East Prospect Rd. in Washington Township. The search warrant was the result of ongoing investigations involving the trafficking of illegal drugs in and around Highland County. 

As a result of the search warrant, one ounce of cocaine, approximately 1200 valium pills, marijuana, items of drug paraphernalia, cash and a vehicle were seized. Arrested were: 

• Andrea K. Myers age 27 of Dayton, Ohio 

-Charged with one count of Possession of     Drugs, a 3^rd degree misdemeanor 

                Bond was set at $500.00

• David A. Gustin age 43 of Hillsboro, Ohio

     --Charged with one count of Possession of                     Drugs (Cocaine) an F-3

     --Charged with one count of Possession of                     Drugs (Valium) an F-3

   Bond was set at $200,000.00 due to his  previous drug convictions in Highland County. 

Both Myers and Gustin will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Wednesday November 21, 2007 at 8:00 AM before the Honorable Judge David McKenna for their initial arraignment. The case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutors Office where it will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are possible. The evidence seized in this case will bent sent to the Ohio BCI&I for further forensic testing and evaluation. 

One Man in Custody After Shooting In Marshall Township 

On Friday, November 16, 2007, at approximately 3:01 p.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a Marshall Township resident reporting he had been shot by an adult male at his residence in Marshall Township.  Deputies and Detectives were dispatched to the scene. 

Upon arrival to the scene, an adult male was found to have suffered multiple gunshot wounds.  The Hillsboro Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the scene and began emergency medical treatment.  The male subject was subsequently flown to Miami Valley Hospital where he was listed in fair condition. The was identified as Brett H. (Buddy) Miles Age 29 of Hillsboro. 

Assistance was sought from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation in regards to processing the scene.  Several items of evidence were collected. 

Michael J. Norman, age 49, of Paint Township was taken into custody at the scene.  Norman was later charged with one count of Felonious Assault, a felony of the second degree.  Norman is scheduled to appear for arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna on Monday, November 19, 2007, at 8:00 a.m.  Norman is currently out of jail after posting a $25,000.00 bond.

The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

Missing Hunter Found Deceased

At approximately 8:30 PM on November 10, 2007, the Highland County Sheriff's Office received a call of a missing hunter in the area of 9250 East Prospect Road in Washington Township. According to the caller, Kevin Hankison, age 48 of Miamisburg, had been in the area and had not returned to the camper where is was staying. 

Upon arrival of Highland County Deputies, along with the Hillsboro, Marshall, Mowrystown and Leesburg Fire Departments, a search perimeter was established. At approximately 12:43 AM the body of Kevin Hankison was found. The body was transported to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office for an autopsy. Highland County Coroner Dr. Paul Terrell advised that the autopsy indicated the Mr. Hankison had died as a result of a heart attack. 

ROUTINE CALL RESULTS IN STANDOFF/SUICIDE

On Friday, October 19, 2007 at approximately 5:42 PM a deputy with the Highland County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to 4698 Bennington Road in Washington Township regarding a welfare check of Marvin E. McCart, age 56. Upon arrival, the deputy was unable to make contact with anyone, however a vehicle that McCart had rented was parked in the driveway. The deputy made contact with McCart inside of the residence and McCart fired a shot from a rifle in the direction of the deputy. The deputy then backed out of the home and called for assistance. 

Additional Highland County Sheriff's deputies including Special Response Team members, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Adams County Sheriff's Office, Hillsboro Police Department and an agent from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) all responded to assist. 

After extensive attempts to establish communication with McCart over public address systems and telephone failed, entry was made into the home. Upon making entry, deputies discovered McCart had succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Highland County Coroner Dr. Paul Terrell was called to the scene and ordered the body be removed for autopsy at the Montgomery County Coroner's Office. The scene investigation was handled by an agent of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation. 

ARREST MADE ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CASE

 On October 15, 2007, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 12000 block of U.S. 50 in the community of Rainsboro, in Paint Township.  This being a residence that James D. Johnston, age 36, has been staying at. 

 Upon execution of the search warrant, items relating to the possession of child pornography were located and seized as evidence, including a personal computer.  The computer will be forensically analyzed for further evidence. 

Arrested was James D. Johnston, who was charged with one count of Pandering Sexually Oriented Matter Involving A Minor, a felony of the fourth degree.

Johnston was arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna on October 15, 2007.  Further investigation will be conducted and once complete, the case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office, for presentation to an upcoming session of the Grand Jury, where numerous additional charges are likely.  Johnston is currently under a $10,000.00 bond and a preliminary hearing will be held in Municipal Court on October 25, 2007.  Johnston was ordered to be placed upon pretrial supervision, which includes a provision that should Johnston be released on bond, that he have no contact with any minor child without written permission from the parent.  

GRAND JURY INDICTMENT HANDED DOWN AGAINST WILLIAM SMITH IN DEATH OF LYNN LUCAS

 On Tuesday, October 2, 2007, the Highland County Grand Jury issued a six-count indictment against William H. Smith, age 58, of New Market Township. 

The specific counts are as follows:

Count #1: Murder, an unclassified felony, with a gun specification

Count #2: Voluntary Manslaughter, a felony of the first degree, with a gun specification

Count #3: Abuse of a Corpse, a felony of the fifth degree.

Count #4: Tampering with Evidence, a felony of the second degree.

Count #5:  Felonious Assault, a felony of the second degree.

Count #6: Kidnapping, a felony of the second degree.

As previously reported, William H. Smith has been connected to the death of Lynn Lucas, at her Paint Township residence.  A family member found the body of Lynn Lucas on February 5, 2007.  The Highland County Coroner ruled the manner of death as a homicide caused by a single gunshot wound. 

Counts five and six resulted after investigation revealed that in February 2006, William H. Smith had allegedly become intoxicated and fired a handgun at a female acquaintance, who was at his residence.  He then kept the female from leaving his residence for several hours.

Smith is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $650,000.00 bond.  Smith is scheduled to appear in Highland County Common Pleas Court for arraignment on Tuesday, October 16, 2007.

INDICTMENT ISSUED RELATING TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY 

On October 2, 2007, the Highland County Grand Jury issued a 23-count indictment against Samuel T. McCullough, age 39, of Paint Township. 

The specific counts of the indictment are 12 counts of Pandering Obscenity Involving a Minor, each a felony of the fourth degree.  Additional counts were one count of Possession of Criminal Tools, a felony of the fifth degree; and ten counts of Illegal Use of a Minor in Nudity-Oriented Material, each a felony of the fifth degree.

 The charges are the result of two-month investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office into allegations that McCullough was in possession of child pornography on his computer.  A search warrant was executed at McCullough’s residence on August 24, 2007.  The computer was then sent to the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation in London, Ohio, to the computer forensic lab.  Initial analysis revealed numerous images and videos involving minors depicted in a state of nudity or engaged in sexual activity.

 McCullough is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $66,500.00, bond.  McCullough is scheduled to be arraigned in Highland County Common Pleas Court on Tuesday, October 16, 2006.

Home Invasion Made Into Paint Township Residence

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a reported home invasion and attempted sexual assault.  

On Friday, August 10, 2007, at 6:00 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office received a call that a Paint Township woman’s home had been entered and a male subject attempted sexual activity with the female.  The male later fled the scene on foot.  The female was home alone at the time of the incident.

Findings Released From May 10, 2007 Fatal Fire 

 The Highland County Sheriff’s Office, Highland County Coroner’s Office, and the State of Ohio Fire Marshal’s Office, have all completed their investigations into the May 10, 2007, fatal fire on Stephan Road, in which two individuals lost their lives.

The Coroner’s Office has listed the deaths as homicide for Samantha Lane, age 15, and suicide for Mathew J. Stone, age 20.  The Coroner found that based upon the age of Samantha, and additional factors, this qualified her death to be listed as a homicide.  The State Fire Marshal’s Office concluded that the fire was intentionally set, by the occupants, and originated in the upstairs interior area of the home the two had broken into.  It was also found that while deputies were attempting to make contact with Mathew Stone and Samantha Lane, a female called the Sheriff’s Office and stated she had just seen Mathew Stone at a location in the City of Hillsboro. Investigation revealed this phone call originated from 2875 Stephan Road, where the deputies were attempting contact.   

On May 6, 2007, Clinton County had sent out a message that Samantha Lane was a missing person.  On May 8, 2007, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office sent out a request for deputies to be on the look out for Mathew Stone, after he allegedly assaulted one of their deputies on State Route 247.  During the incident, the Adams County deputy observed Stone and Lane together and attempted to take Lane into custody.  After assaulting the deputy, Stone and Lane fled the area together.  On May 10, 2007, during the morning, information was received by the Sheriff’s Office that Stone was in the area of Stephan Road.  A search was conducted, but Stone was not located.  Later in the day on May 10, 2007, the Sheriff’s Office received a call that Stone and Lane had broken into a house on Stephan Road and were hiding at this location.  Deputies arrived and attempted contact with Stone and Lane, but received no response.  Based upon the situation, as well as Stone’s history, and the fact Stone was previously court ordered to remain away from Lane, deputies remained at the location and continued to attempt contact.  Attempts were made to coax the two out of the residence, again with no response.  While attempting contact with Stone and Lane, deputies made entry into the home and found that the home was on fire.  Attempts were made to reach Stone and Lane, but were unsuccessful due to the extreme amount of heat and smoke present and coming from the second story of the home.  Fire and EMS units were called to the scene and were able to locate the victims and attempt lifesaving efforts, but they succumbed to the smoke and were pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Jeffrey Beery, assistant county coroner.   

    Two Dead After House Fire in Concord Township 

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Fire Marshals Office is currently investigating the deaths of two persons who were pulled from a burning house on Thursday May 10, 2007.

Highland County Sheriff Deputies and Detectives had responded to a residence at 2875 Stephan Rd. in Concord Twp on May 10, 2007 at approximately 7 PM after receiving information that a suspect in the assault of an Adams County Sheriff’s Deputy, which occurred on May 9, 2007, may be at that the residence. The suspect, Matthew Jason Stone age 20 was reportedly with a runaway juvenile, Samantha Lane age 15, from Sabina in Clinton County. Upon arrival at the residence, Deputies heard movement from within the residence and tried to make contact with the occupants using PA system and phone contact, but were unsuccessful. Approximately 20 minutes later, smoke was observed coming from the house. The Hillsboro and Mowrystown Fire Departments were immediately dispatched to the scene. Additional efforts were made to contact the individuals inside, again without success. Deputies then made forced entry in the house and checked the first floor but were unable to get to the second floor of the home due to heavy smoke and fire.

Upon arrival of the first fire units on the scene, saws were used to enter the second floor through the roof. Upon entering the house through the roof, a male and a female were located in the attic area of the home. The were removed from the house by Fire and Law Enforcement personnel, both suffering from smoke and soot inhalation and both unresponsive. Fire/EMS personnel started resuscitation efforts were initiated on both victims but they succumbed to the smoke and were pronounced dead at the scene by Highland County Assistant Coroner, Dr. Jeffrey Beery, MD. The bodies were later identified as Stone and Lane. The bodies were taken to the Montgomery County Coroners Office for autopsy. The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office were called to assist Highland County Sheriff’s Deputies to determine the cause and origin of the fire. It is believed that either Stone or Lane set the fire, either by accident or purposely during the course of HCSO Deputies attempting to coax them out of the residence. It is believed that the two broke into the house and possibly had been staying there in an attempt to hide out after the assault of the Adams County Deputy. The owner of the home had not been to the house since May 8, 2007. 

The house suffered heavy smoke/fire and water damage as a result of the fire. Fire and EMS Units responding to this incident were the Hillsboro, Mowrystown, Marshal, Lynchburg, Leesburg, Brushcreek, Winchester and Sardinia Fire Departments.       

The case remains under investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, The Ohio State Fire Marshals Office as well as the Adams and Clinton County Sheriff’s Offices.

Male Arrested on Child Pornography and Weapons Charges

On April 24, 2007, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 9089 Water Street in Paint Township in the community of Petersburg, this being the residence of James T. O'Daniel, age 48. 

Upon execution of the search warrant, numerous items relating to the possession of child pornography were located and seized as evidence, along with several firearms and computer equipment. 

Arrested was James T. O'Daniel, who was charged with one count of Pandering Sexually Oriented Matter Involving A Minor, a felony of the second degree and one count of Possession of a Dangerous Ordnance, a felony of the fifth degree. 

O'Daniel was arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna on April 25, 2007.  Further investigation will be conducted and once complete, the case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Grand Jury, where numerous additional charges are likely.  O'Daniel is currently under a $100,000.00 bond and a preliminary hearing will be held in Municipal Court in the near future.

Additionally, if anyone has any further information about this case, they are encouraged to contact the Detective Division at the Highland County Sheriff’s Office at (937) 393-1421.

A.P.A. Fugitive Located

On April 3, 2007, approximately 1902 hours the Ohio Adult Parole Authority and the Highland County Sheriff’s Department went to 7643 Mad River Road, Hillsboro, in an attempt to locate Mark A. Washington, age 29, a fugitive from the supervision of the Adult Parole Authority (A.P.A.). 

Mr. Washington was released from prison on November 25, 2006, after he served 6 years from Montgomery County for Felonious Assault with a Deadly Weapon (F2) and Possession of Cocaine (F4).   He also has a criminal history involving narcotics, weapons, and stolen property offenses.  Mr. Washington absconded from his supervision with the A.P.A. in January of 2007 and has been at large ever since.   

Mr. Washington was located at the residence and taken into custody without incident.  A search of the residence by A.P.A. and the Highland County Narcotics K-9 produced a large amount of illegal narcotics, drug paraphernalia, cash, a firearm and a large amount of stolen property.  Mr. Washington also had outstanding warrants from the Leesburg Police Department for Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Aggravated Menacing.    

Washington appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on April 4, 2007, for arraignment and pled guilty to a pending misdemeanor charge.  As a result, Washington received 90 days in the Highland County Jail and is also being held on A.P.A. violations.  Washington will appear before the Ohio Parole Board in the near future for the new violations and the case will be presented to Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Grand Jury where additional charges are possible.  

 Several Arrested, Others Sought, After Major Drug Sweep Across Highland County

 Highland County Sheriff’s Deputies, with the assistance of over 80 police officers from 16 area Law Enforcement agencies conducted a major drug sweep across Highland County on Friday March 30, 2007, after a special session of the Highland County Grand Jury handed down indictments on 39 Highland County residents on 78  felony counts related to the Trafficking of Drugs in Highland County. The indictments were the result of a 6 month undercover operation conducted by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and the Pipeline 23 Major Crimes Task Force. During the investigation Marijuana, Cocaine, Crack Cocaine and a large variety of pills and prescription medication were purchased by undercover agents who infiltrated the various circles of drug dealers throughout Highland County.  

Officers, armed with arrest warrants and search warrants for six locations, executed the first of the search warrants at around 8:40 PM on March 30th. Four of the search warrants were in and around Greenfield in Highland County and two were in Ross County. Of the 39 people indicted, 19 were arrested Friday evening and booked into the Highland County Justice Center. There were also 4 other individuals arrested for outstanding warrants not associated with the undercover operation. Those arrested were: 

Mary C. Henderson, age 47 of Hillsboro

              - (3) Counts Agg. Trafficking in Drugs

Alex D. Franklin, age 20 of Hillsboro

            - (2) Counts of Trafficking in Drugs

Kacy D. Clouser, age 24 of Greenfield

            - (2) Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine

James G. Hines, age 29 of Hillsboro

            - (2) Counts of Trafficking in Marijuana

Dana R. Saxon, age 24 of Hillsboro

            -(3) Counts of Trafficking in Drugs

Brandon Forsha, age 30 of Greenfield

            - (7) Counts of Trafficking/Possession of Cocaine

Jennifer L. Forsha, age 33 of Greenfield

            - (3) Counts of Trafficking/Possession of Cocaine

John R. Calhoun, age 47 of Greenfield

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Cocaine

Heather L. Miles, age 26 of Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Marijuana

Amanda M. Christ, age 20 of Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs

Susan L. Munyon, age 45 of Greenfield

            - (5) Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine

Tracey O’Cull, age 30 Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Marijuana

Joshua Roland, age 23 of Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Drugs

Seth O’Bryant, age 24 of Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Drugs

Leroy Parr, age 30 of Greenfield

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Cocaine

Jason Cox, age 27 of Greenfield

            - (2) Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine

Dwight Hester Jr., age 39 of Greenfield

            - (5) Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine

Arthur Ayler, age 23 of Greenfield

            -(3) Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine

Amber Jackson, age 19 of Hillsboro

            - (1) Count of Trafficking in Cocaine

Others Arrested:

William Hubbard, age 26 of Greenfield, warrant for Failure to appear

Eric Dietrich, age 35 of Greenfield, warrant for Failure to appear

Tony Gibson, age 41 of Hillsboro, warrant for Failure to appear

Eric Overly, age 36 of Greenfield, warrant for failure to appear 

All persons arrested on indictments will appear for their arraignment on April 11, 2007 at 1:00 PM in Highland County Common Pleas Court. The other 20 individuals indicted that were not taken into custody are actively being sought for arrest by law enforcement officials in Highland County. 

The 16 Law Enforcement agencies that assisted The Highland County Sheriff’s Office in the drug sweep were the Fayette, Clinton, Adams, Ross, Brown and Pike County Sheriff’s Offices, The Hillsboro, Chillicothe, Greenfield, Lynchburg, Leesburg , Pierce Township (Clermont County) and  Goshen Township (Clermont County) Police Departments, The Ohio State Highway Patrol, The Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Agents from BCI&I and The Pipeline 23 Drug Task Force.  

This operation is continuing and additional arrests are expected when the investigation is complete.  

Three Men Arrested on Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop

On Saturday March 3, 2007 at 3:33 am, a Highland County Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a vehicle in the 200 block of West Main St. in Hillsboro for a traffic violation. The driver was found to be Zachary King, age 21 of Wilmington. After further investigation it was found the King was under the influence of alcohol or drugs and he was placed under arrest. He was also found to be driving under suspension. Two other passengers in the vehicle, Timothy Brown, age 25 of Hillsboro and Jeffery Dunning, age 30 of Port William were placed into investigative custody.

A search of the vehicle revealed several grams of Methamphetamine and a duffle bag containing several components used in the illegal manufacture of drugs including lithium batteries, psuedoephedrine packs, hoses and other pieces of assorted drug paraphernalia. 

After further investigation all three were placed under arrest and transported to the Highland County Justice Center and charged as follows;

 King – OVI, Driving Under Suspension, Fictitious Plates and Illegal Assembly of Chemicals used to Manufacture Drugs, a felony 3. His bond was set at $70,000.00 in Hillsboro Municipal Court.

Dunning - Possession of Drugs (2 counts) a felony 5,      Illegal Assembly of Chemicals used to  to               Manufacture Drugs, a felony 3, Illegal Conveyance of Drugs Into a Detention Facility, a felony 3. His bond was set at $150,000 in Hillsboro Municipal Court.

Brown - Illegal Assembly of Chemicals used to Manufacture Drugs, a felony 3 and a Probation Violation. His bond was set at 80,000 in Hillsboro Municipal Court.

All three made initial court appearances in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday, March 5, 2007 where bonds were set. The case will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are likely. 

TWO MEN ARRESTED AFTER SEARCH OF HOME REVEALS METHAMPHETAMINE

 On Thursday, March 1, 2007 at approximately 1:00 AM, Highland County Sheriff’s Deputies went to a residence located at 2760 US 50 in Dodson Township after receiving information that an individual with active warrants was there. Upon arrival of deputies at the residence, Larry A. Johnson age 34 of Pleasant Plain  was taken into custody without incident for the active warrant. The owner of the residence, Kenneth Kisling age 34 was also present. While in the residence, deputies found items associated with the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine. Deputies also noticed a strong odor of anhydrous ammonia emanating from a garage on the property. Deputies secured Mr. Kisling and the area around the house until a further search of the property could be completed by specially trained and equipped deputies from the H.C.S.O.

 Upon further search of the house and garage, containers of anhydrous ammonia were located as well as lithium batteries, acids, jars containing crushed psuedoephedrine soaking in ether, salt, gas generators and tubing, all of which are used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

An environmental cleanup company from West Virginia was dispatched by the DEA to the scene for disposal of the illicit and dangerous material. Both Kisling and Johnson were taken to the Highland County Johnson Center and charged with one count each of Illegal Assembly of Chemicals Used in the Manufacture of  Drugs, a felony of the third degree. Both appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Thursday, March 1, 2007 where their bonds were set at $70,000.00 each.

This case remains under investigation by the H.C.S.O. and will be turned over to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office where it will be presented to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges and arrests are possible.

FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP MAN FOUND DECEASED 

On Sunday, February 11, 2007, at 7:01 p.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a fire at 12529 Ringer Lane in Fairfield Township.  The Highland County North Joint Fire and Ambulance District was dispatched to the scene.  Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the body of Jason D. Price, age 30, at the front entrance to the residence.  Deputies and Detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, as well as an arson investigator, and an agent from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I), were called to the scene.  Assistant County Coroner Dr. Jeff Beery also responded. 

Dr. Beery ordered the body be removed for autopsy at the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.  Preliminary investigation has revealed that the fire and subsequent death of Jason Price appear to have been by accidental means.  The situation remains under investigation, pending toxicology and other test results, which can take up to six weeks.

 FEMALE FOUND DECEASED IN HER RESIDENCE

 On Monday, February 5, 2007 at 7:50 p.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of from a resident on Heather Moor Trail in Paint Township advising that her neighbor was deceased.  Upon arrival to the scene, it was determined that Lynn D. Lucas, age 47, of 6745 Heather Moor Trail, was deceased within her residence.  A family member had stopped by to check on her and located her within the residence.

Dr. Paul Terrell, Highland County Coroner, was called to the scene and ordered the body be removed for autopsy at the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.  Additional items were collected as potential evidence. The case remains under investigation at this time.

SEXUAL OFFENDER ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER

On Wednesday, January 3, 2007, Patrick B. Snider, age 35, of Paint Township, was arrested for Failing to Register as a Sexual Offender.  Snider had originally been charged with Sexual Battery and Rape by the Highland County Grand Jury in 2004 and 2005, and pled guilty to Rape and Sexual Battery in May 2006, in Highland County Common Pleas Court.  Snider was sentenced to 4 years to 25 years in the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections.  Snider was released from prison on December 21, 2006, after serving six months.  At that time, Snider failed to register his address as required by Ohio law for those convicted of sexual related crimes.  Snider was arrested on January 3^rd after he reported to the Adult Parole Authority and was taken into custody. 

Snider is scheduled for arraignment in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before The Honorable Judge David McKenna on January 4, 2007, at 8:00 a.m.  Snider is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center on a $25,000.00 bond.  The case will also be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

TWO MEN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH RASH OF RECENT HIGHLAND COUNTY HOME BURGLARIES

Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward reports that his office has two male suspects in custody in connection with the recent rash of home burglaries throughout Highland County.  On Tuesday December 5, 2006 at 11:11 am, an Adams County resident returned to her home to find it had been burglarized and two males outside. One male fled on foot into a woods adjacent to the home. The other male left the scene in a vehicle, but not before the female resident was dragged by the suspect vehicle in her effort to stop the driver from leaving.

 The Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of the burglary and requested the Highland County Sheriff’s Aircraft to respond to the area. The suspect on foot was taken into custody a short time later. A second suspect, and the suspect vehicle, were located at residence in Hillsboro where he was taken into custody. Several pieces of evidence were recovered from the vehicle and a residence in Hillsboro tying the men to three area burglaries. At the time of this release, the men were in custody but have not been formally charged. Highland County and Adams County Sheriff Detectives, along with the Hillsboro Police are currently interviewing the men and expect to clear numerous home burglaries throughout Highland County as well as at least two in Adams. The burglaries have occurred over the past 10 weeks. HCSO Detectives will be in touch with area residents in the coming days in an attempt to identify property recovered during this investigation.

The suspects’ identity will be made public when they are formally charged, and this is expected sometime on Thursday December 7, 2006.  

NEW YORK MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING HIGHLAND COUNTY TEEN OVER THE INTERNET

 The Highland County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office in New York report that an arrest was made after a Tompkins County New York man threatened a local teen over the Internet. 

Shuan C. Brown, age 25, of Newfield, New York, was arrested on December 4, 2006, under Federal charges of using the Internet to persuade, coerce, and entice a minor to engage in sexual conduct, and interstate transmission of threatening communications.  

The arrest was made by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Binghampton, New York, and the Tompkins County (NY) Sheriff’s Office.  The arrest is the result of a joint investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office over the past month.  The allegations came to light after a Highland County family contacted the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and reported that a subject had threatened and enticed their 14 year-old daughter to expose herself via a web camera on the Internet.  The suspect then posted the picture on the web and the victim found out about it.  An investigation was initiated in Highland County by the Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance Hillsboro Police Department, that uncovered the identity of the suspect as that of  Shuan C. Brown in Tompkins County New York.  It was further learned that Brown was 25 years of age.  The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office was contacted and took over the investigation.  Investigators in Tompkins County executed a search warrant and seized Brown’s computer.  During this time Brown was also interviewed and admitted to the allegations.  Forensic analysis of the computer in New York uncovered the image in question of the Highland County juvenile.

The case will be presented in United States District Court in the Northern District of New York.  Shaun C. Brown was arraigned on December 4, 2006, and is said to have a detention hearing scheduled for Thursday, December 7, 2006. 

Sheriff Ward would like to stress the importance of Internet safety.  While the Internet is a wonderful tool, dangers are associated with it.  Parents should monitor their child’s activity on the Internet, keep educated on the web sites and chat rooms that their child is visiting, discourage the use or web cams and communicating with strangers, not allowing their child to post personal information or photos, and keeping the computer in a public area of the home.  Parents should be aware that predators are out on the Internet and will take advantage of children.

ABANDONED METH LAB LOCATED BY HUNTERS

 On Saturday, December 2, 2006, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a report from an individual that had been deer hunting in the 6200 block of Pondlick Road in Concord Township.  The individual reported that they discovered what appeared to be a methamphetamine lab located in an abandoned barn on the property.  Deputies and Detectives were dispatched to the scene.  Upon investigation, it was learned someone had been manufacturing methamphetamine at this site and had left their clandestine lab at this location.  Numerous items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine were discovered at this location.  The items were secured and an environmental clean up crew responded to the scene and removed the items.  Additional items were taken as evidence and will be sent in the near future to the Ohio Bureau of Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) to their crime laboratory in London, Ohio.

 Sheriff Ward reminds citizens who come across possible meth lab sites, or meth lab dumpsites, to use caution and not to handle any of the materials.  The materials and methods used to manufacture methamphetamine can be extremely dangerous and are very hazardous.  Anyone who comes in contact with a possible meth lab should contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office immediately to report the situation.  Never attempt to investigate yourself, as these situations are very dangerous and call for specialized personnel for assessment and clean up.

Highland County Sheriff and Engineer Discuss High Cost of Traffic Sign Repair and Replacement Due to Theft and Vandalism

Highland County Sheriff Ronald D. Ward and Highland County Engineer P. Dean Otworth, P.E., P.S. announce that the Highland County Engineers Office has spent approximately $7800.00 in replacement and repair of 107 county owned road signs between June 1, 2006 and November 1, 2006. Engineer Otworth stated “these costs are directly related to the vandalism and theft of the road signs that are erected to identify roads and traffic control signs such as stop signs and speed limit signs.” 

Highland County Sheriff Ronald Ward reports that his office has seen an increase of vandalism to local signs over the summer. Sheriff Ward stated “we have reports of several signs being spray painted, some with what appears to be a stenciled cross, usually on the rear of the sign. We would be interested to know what, significance, if any this symbol has. We have also seen an increase of stop signs being stolen.” Sheriff Ward reports that the theft and/or the vandalism of these signs is a criminal offense and should the removal of the signs contribute to a vehicle crash, the persons responsible could face several years in the penitentiary. 

Sheriff Ward and Engineer Otworth appeal to the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Highland County Sheriff’s Office regarding the tampering of these signs.

BODY OF MISSING PERSON LOCATED

 On November 17, 2006, at 8:29 a.m. the Greenfield Police Department received a call for welfare check on Shelia Nelson, age 52, of Greenhills Drive in Greenfield.  On November 17, 2006, at 11:43 a.m. the department received information that Shelia Nelson had apparently left her residence on November 16, 2006, and not been heard from since that time. 

On November 17, 2006, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the Greenfield Police Department regarding information they had received that the vehicle Shelia Nelson had been using was located in a field off Centerfield Road in Madison Township just east of Wilson Road near the State Wildlife Area.  A Greenfield Police Officer was dispatched to check the area.  At approximately 8:40 p.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office was notified that the body of a female had been discovered by the officer in the area near the location of the vehicle. The body was later identified as Shelia Nelson, the missing person from Greenfield. 

Sheriff’s Deputies and Detectives along with Highland County Coroner

Dr. Paul Terrell were called to the scene to investigate.  Dr. Terrell ordered the body to be removed from the scene and sent to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office for autopsy. 

At this time the investigation remains under investigation pending further investigation and the results of the autopsy.  

NEW D.A.R.E. OFFICER APPOINTED

Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward is pleased to announce that Deputy Bobby D. Stroop has been appointed as the D.A.R.E. officer for Highland County. On October 27, 2006  Deputy Stroop graduated from the 55^th D.A.R.E. Officer Training Class at the Ohio Police Officer Training Academy in London, Ohio. Out of a class of 26 officers, Deputy Stroop was selected by his classmates to be the spokesman for the class during graduation ceremonies. 

The D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program is an internationally recognized model program created in 1983 by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Unified School District. The D.A.R.E. program provides students in kindergarten through high school with the skills necessary to recognize and resist pressure to experiment with drugs and to avoid gangs and violence. Lessons emphasize self-esteem, decision making, interpersonal communications skills, the consequences of drug abuse, conflict resolution and positive alternatives to substance abuse. 

The most important facet of D.A.R.E. is the use of specially trained officers to deliver the curriculum within the schools. Officers are accepted as authorities on drug abuse, as they deal with those who abuse drugs and the consequences on a daily basis.  

 In order to be certified to instruct D.A.R.E. Deputy Stroop was first interviewed by a panel of police executives, D.A.R.E. officers and school administrators. After his approval, Deputy Stroop completed two weeks(80 hours) of intensive training by Ohio’s accredited Training Center. Officers are trained by the Law Enforcement Foundation which has the sole permission to train D.A.R.E. officers in Ohio. 

 Ohio’s D.A.R.E. program is sponsored by the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, Law Enforcement Foundation and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

 Deputy Stroop is certified in the K-4, Elementary and Middle school curriculums and is also a certified D.A.R.E. School Resource Officer. Deputy Stroop will present the D.A.R.E. program to elementary students in the Hillsboro, Greenfield, Lynchburg-Clay, Bright Local and Fairfield school districts. Deputy Stroop, an eleven year veteran of the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, is excited about the program and eager to begin his new duties.

ARRESTS MADE FOR POSSESSION OF CRACK COCAINE

On Monday, October 30, 2006, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office arrested two females in relation to the possession of crack cocaine.

 Arrested and charged with Possession of Drugs, a felony of the fifth degree, were Sandra D. Frederick, age 55, of New Market Township, and Jamie A. Lowe, age 43, of Hillsboro. 

 The arrests were the result of a traffic stop.  During the stop the Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit indicated on the vehicle and a subsequent search revealed a small amount of crack cocaine, as well as some drug related paraphernalia.  This information then led to a search of the Frederick residence in New Market Township, where additional paraphernalia and a small amount of marijuana were located. 

Both Frederick and Lowe are currently incarcerated at the Highland County Justice Center under a $2500.00 bond and are scheduled to appear in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna on Wednesday, November 1, 2006.  A preliminary hearing will most likely be held in Municipal Court on Thursday, November 9, 2006.

Emergency Personnel Respond to Farm Accident

On Thursday October 26, 2006 at 5:52 pm the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from 4320 SR 138, near the community of Danville, reporting that a person was caught in farm machinery and was unresponsive. The Hillsboro Fire and Rescue was dispatched as well as units from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office. 

Investigation into the incident revealed that Jeff Holbrook age 51 was unloading corn from a grain bin into a grain cart using a portable grain auger. While doing this, his clothing became entangled in moving parts of the auger. He was entrapped in the auger for a short period and was freed by family members, who also started resuscitation efforts until EMS units arrived. He was taken to Highland District Hospital with critical injuries. He was later transferred to Miami Valley Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. 

Highland County Sheriff’s Office receives Traffic Enforcement Grant

Highland County Sheriff Ronald D. Ward announced today that he has received confirmation that the Highland County Sheriff’s Office was selected to receive a grant award in the amount of $23,298.35 for federal fiscal year 2007, which runs from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.  

The grant, which is administered through the Ohio Department of Public Safety and the Governor’s Highway Safety Office, allows deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office to be scheduled, in an overtime capacity, to work areas of Highland County that have been identified as high incident areas for injury and fatal car crashes.  The HCSO has also agreed to again participate in several federal traffic safety programs as part of the grant such as, “Click it or Ticket”, “What’s Holding you back” and “You Drink, You Drive, You Lose.”  

The HCSO will also schedule deputies during Holidays and occasions where traffic volumes increase as well as an increase of drivers who drink and drive. Those times have been identified as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve, Superbowl Weekend, St. Patrick’s Day, Homecoming and Prom Season, Memorial Day Weekend, 4^th of July weekend and Labor Day Weekend. Deputies will be on the lookout for aggressive drivers, driver who may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driver and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, speeding drivers and other violations that lead to traffic crashes. Sheriff Ward stated “I am very happy that once again the HCSO was chosen to receive this traffic enforcement grant. It will allow us to put additional deputies on the road during peak times for the purpose of saving lives and preventing injuries in crashes involving impaired and aggressive drivers. Without this funding, we would not be able to do this with the current budget restraints.”

Two Arrested for Aggravated Robbery

On October 14, 2006 at approximately 11:13 PM, the Highland County Sheriff's Office received a call from the First Stop in Leesburg reporting they were robbed by two male subjects with guns. The subjects fled with an undetermined amount of cash, cigarettes and jewelry from one of the store clerks. Officers from the Leesburg Police Department along with deputies from the Highland County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene. 

A description of the suspects and the vehicle thought to be involved were obtained and a teletype was sent to adjacent counties notifying them of the description. 

At 11:56 PM  the Fayette County Sheriff's Office stopped a vehicle matching the description. Upon further investigation, Fayette County Deputies discovered cash, cigarettes, jewelry that was reported stolen from the clerk and a firearm. 

As a result of the traffic stop, Justin L. Schneider, age 24 of Columbus and James T. Hester age 19 of Bainbridge were apprehended and charged with Aggravated Robbery, a Felony 1. Both are being held in the Highland County Justice Center on a $20,000.00 bond and will be arraigned before the Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday, October 16, 2006.  

All items recovered in the traffic stop were turned over to Highland County authorities and the case continues to be investigated jointly between the Leesburg Police Department and Highland County Sheriff's Office. The Case will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutor's Office for presentation to an upcoming Grand Jury.

“Most Wanted” Apprehended in Nashville, Tennessee

Timothy E. Wisby, age 42, formerly of Peebles, was arrested September 29, 2006 in Nashville, Tennessee.  Wisby was wanted on a Grand Jury Indictment for failure to appear.  Wisby was originally charged with breaking and entering and was to appear for sentencing in November of 2005.  Two deputies traveled to Nashville on October 10, 2006 and returned Wisby to Highland County where he remains incarcerated in the Justice Center.  Other wanted persons may be viewed on our web site  by clicking the “wanted” link.  

THREE ARRESTED AFTER SEARCH WARRANT EXECUTED AT PAINT TOWNSHIP HOME

 The Highland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 7045 Cathy Road in Paint Township on Friday September 1, 2006. The search warrant was the result of a four week investigation into drug trafficking at the residence searched. The search resulted in several grams of crack cocaine being seized as well as drug paraphernalia and instruments of  drug abuse. Over $2100.00 was also seized as well as two motor vehicles as part of the ongoing investigation. 

The following were  arrested at the residence at the time the search warrant was served:

• Amber Jackson, age 18 of Hillsboro charged with Trafficking in Drugs (Crack Cocaine) a Felony 4  

• Rodger W. Cassell, age 29 of Wilmington charged with Trafficking in Drugs (Crack Cocaine) a Felony 4   

• Maudy V. Jackson, age 40 of Greenfield charged with possession of drugs (crack cocaine) a Felony 4 and a warrant from Ross County for failure to appear on a drug paraphernalia charge

 All three are being held at the Highland County Justice Center on $50,000.00 bond and will appear on Tuesday September 5, 2006 at 8:00 am in Hillsboro Municipal Court for their arraignment. The case involving these individuals is still ongoing and this case will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are expected and additional arrests are possible.

Arrest  Results In Meth  Lab

On August 17, 2006, deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office went to 10561 Lois Lane, Paint Township, in order to attempt to locate Donald L. McKenzie, age 29, due to outstanding warrants for his arrest. 

Upon arrival, McKenzie was observed outside of his residence and he took off running with items in his hands.  A chase ensued and during the chase McKenzie dropped the items, which were found to be related to the manufacture and possession of methamphetamine.  McKenzie was apprehended after a short chase.  Deputies and detectives conducted a search of the area and several items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine, including anhydrous ammonia were located.  All items were secured and an environmental clean up company was called to the scene to dispose of the items. 

Donald. L. McKenzie was charged with Illegal Assembly of Chemicals.  McKenzie was arraigned in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on August 18, 2006.  McKenzie is currently being held under a $10,000.00 bond, as well a 25 day sentence out of Municipal Court for a probation violation.  It was noted that McKenzie was currently out on bond for a 2005 case in Common Pleas Court, which involved a two-count indictment for Illegal Assembly (felony 3) and Criminal Tools (felony 5). 

McKenzie is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before The Honorable Judge David McKenna, on Thursday, August 24, 2006, at 9:00 a.m.  The case will also be sent to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

Search Warrant Leads to Endangering Children Charges 

On August 15, 2006 special agents with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Unit, along with deputies and detectives with the Highland County Sheriff's Office executed a federal search warrant at 7187 St Rt 135, Dodson Township, in the community of Allensburg. 

Upon entering in the home, the living conditions were observed to be of concern for the two children present. Arrested and charged with two counts each of Endangering Children (M1) were Anthony L. Smith, age 40 and Carolyn J. Smith, age 43. Highland County Children Services were called to the scene and assisted in placing the children with family. 

Both Anthony and Carolyn Smith were taken to the Highland County Justice Center and were summonsed to appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on August 16, 2006 before  Honorable Judge David McKenna. The federal investigation remains open at this time.

Arrest Made After Small Child Tests  Positive For Cocaine

 On August 10, 2006, Amber K. Jackson, age 18, of Paint Township was arrested by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office after her small child tested positive for cocaine.   

The specific charge was one count of Endangering Children, a felony of the third degree due to serious harm being involved.  The charge stemmed from an investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and Highland County Children Services into concerns that Ms. Jackson’s 21 month-old daughter presented at a hospital with claims the child had accidentally ingested a family member’s pain medication.  Upon further medical examination, it was determined that the child tested positive for cocaine.  The child was in Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for three days due to the incident.  The child has been placed in the temporary custody of Children Services. 

Amber K. Jackson was arrested by the Cincinnati Police Department on Thursday, August 10, 2006, and brought back to Highland County.  Jackson was arraigned in The Hillsboro Municipal Court by The Honorable Judge David McKenna on August 11, 2006.  Jackson is currently incarcerated in the Highland County Jail and is under a $25,000.00 bond and pre-trial supervision if bond is posted. 

Inmate Found Dead in Jail Cell

On Thursday August 10, 2006 at 1:36 am, an inmate being housed in the Highland County Jail was found deceased in his cell from an apparent suicide. A Corrections Officer was completing a routine check of inmates when he peered into the cell occupied by Morris T. Mitchum age 41. The Corrections Officer failed to see Mitchum in his cell during this check. When the Corrections Officer entered the cell to do a further check, it was found that Mitchum had tied a sheet around his neck and anchored it to the top of the door and was hanging on the cell side of the door out of the view of the officer as he peered in to do the cell check. Once Mitchum was found, the Hillsboro Life Squad was dispatched to the Justice Center and determined that Mitchum was deceased. The Highland County Coroner was contacted and the body removed to the Montgomery County Morgue for autopsy. 

Mitchum was arrested on August 2, 2006 by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office on a weapons charge and later indicted by a Hamilton County Grand Jury for Kidnapping and other felony counts stemming from a home invasion that occurred in Symmes Twp in Hamilton County on August 1, 2006 in which Mitchum entered an ex-girlfriends home and held her and others hostage with a firearm. Mitchum then removed the ex-girlfriend from the home and they were located the next morning in Highland County along Beltz Rd. where the victim was found safe and Mitchum was taken into custody.  Mitchum was scheduled for a preliminary hearing in Hillsboro Municipal Court on August 10, 2006 at 10 am.  Prosecutors in Highland County were going to dismiss the weapons charges locally and he would have been turned over to Hamilton County authorities after an extradition hearing to stand trial in Hamilton County. 

This incident remains under investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office.  

KIDNAPPING VICTIM FOUND SAFE IN HIGHLAND COUNTY SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

Sheriff Ward reports that on Wednesday, August 2, 2006, at 9:50 a.m., the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle parked on Beltz Road in Clay Township, Highland County. 

Upon arrival on scene, the deputy discovered a female subject who reported she had been abducted and that the male subject was still in the car and had a handgun with him.  Additional deputies, detectives and Mt. Orab Police Department responded to the scene and discovered a male subject, identified as Morris “Tom” Mitchum, age 41, of Hamilton County, passed out in the motor vehicle.  Mitchum was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Highland County Justice Center.   

It was discovered that late last night, Mitchum had entered a Symmes Township residence in Hamilton County and held three individuals hostage.  Mitchum then took one of the individuals, who is a female, with him in a vehicle and ended up in Highland County at some point earlier this morning. 

At this time, the incident remains under investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. 

Mitchum has been charged with one count of Weapons Under Disability, a felony of the fifth degree.  Mitchum will appear before The Honorable David McKenna in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on Thursday, August 3, 2006, at 8:00 a.m. for arraignment.  The case will also be presented to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Grandey’s Office, for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are likely. 

One Arrested on Drug Charges After Search of Union Township Property

On Thursday, July 6, 2006 Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff's Office conducted a search of a property in Union Township near the Highland/Clinton County Line. The Highland County Sheriff's Aviation Unit had spotted marijuana growing on the property upon a routine surveillance flight. Detectives and Deputies went to the residence on the property and contacted the resident, Jamie L. Lewis, age 30. Upon further investigation, Lewis was found to be in possession of several grams of methamphetamine as well as several items used in the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine. He was also in possession of approximately a half pound of processed marijuana. A total of 243 marijauna plants were seized on his property ranging from 1-2 feet in height.

Lewis was arrested and will be initially charged with one count of possession of drugs, a felony five. He was transported to the Highland County Justice Center where he was booked and scheduled for his arraignment on Friday, July 7, 2006 in Hillsboro Municipal Court. This case is still under the investigation and will be presented to the Highland County Prosecutor's Office for presentation to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are likely.  

ARRESTS MADE ON AGGRAVATED BURGLARY

On June 6, 2006, at approximately 9:56 AM the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a resident of the 9000 block of Careytown Road stating they had come home to find a male subject inside their residence.  The caller stated the male left the residence on foot.  The caller further reported some items were missing from the residence.

Detectives were dispatched to the scene and located a male subject walking from the area of the residence.  The male was taken into custody and assistance was requested from the Hillsboro Police Department, as it was learned a second individual was also involved and at large and believed to still be in the area.  A short time later, a second male subject was located to the south of the residence near Grabill Road and was also taken into custody.

The two suspects were identified as Dusty Oates, age 20, of Hillsboro and Mycal L. Mains, age 22 of Hillsboro.  Both were charged with Aggravated Burglary, a Felony of the second degree.

 Oates and Mains appeared in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna for arraignment on June 7, 2006.  At this time, Oates is being held under a $15,000.00 bond and also a Capias out of Highland County Common Pleas Court.  Oates had a Capias issued on March 29, 2006, after he absconded from supervision he was placed on in January 2006, after he was charged with Breaking and Entering and pled guilty.  Mains is currently under a $10,000.00 bond.  

Both individuals are scheduled to appear for Preliminary Hearing in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on Thursday, June 15, 2006.  Oates is also scheduled to appear in Common Pleas Court on Monday, June 12, 2006, regarding notification on the Capias.  The case will also be forwarded to Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

One Person Arrested after Meth Lab Located in Remote Area of Paint Township 

On April 26, 2006, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a concerned citizen after they had located several items related to the illegal manufacture of Methamphetamine in a wooded area off of Spargur Lane in Paint Township. HCSO Detectives responded to the area and located the items and determined it was in fact a clandestine Meth lab operation. While checking the area in and around the lab, detectives encountered a male on foot. When deputies approached the male he fled with deputies pursing. The male subject was eventually tazed by deputies and taken into custody. He was identified as Jerry L. Mullins II age 26 of Hillsboro. He was found to be in possession of methamphetamine as well as having several outstanding warrants for his arrest. A search warrant was obtained for his residence at 13389 Spargur Lane where a large clandestine meth lab was discovered. Lab certified deputies then took several samples of chemicals and compounds from the lab for testing and a lab clean up team under federal contract was dispatched to the scene for clean-up and disposal of the lab.

 Mullins was charged with Aggravated possession of Methamphetamine, a felony 3 and was arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Friday April 29, 2006 where his bond was set at $50,000.  The case is continuing to be investigated by HCSO Detectives and the case will be turned over to the Highland County Prosecutors Office for presentation to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are likely against Mullins. 

Two Arrested After Search Warrant Yields Several Pounds of Marijuana

On Saturday April 29, 2006 deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office were conducting an investigation into a reported assault at a residence in Union Twp. in Highland County. As a result of that investigation, deputies went to a residence in the 12000 block of Wilmington Ave in the Village of Highland for follow-up investigation. While at this location, deputies located illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia on the property. The residence was secured and a search warrant was obtained.

In the early morning hours of April 30, 2006, the search warrant was executed at the residence on Wilmington Ave. During the search deputies seized over seven pounds of processed marijuana, assorted drug paraphernalia, over $10,000.00 in cash, three motor vehicles and numerous tools and stereo equipment believed to be stolen property.

The two residents, Joseph M. Scott age 38 and Elizabeth Younger age 21, were arrested and charged with Aggravated Possession of Marijuana, a third degree felony. Scott was also charged with a probation violation from the Ohio Adult Parole Authority from his previous felony arrests. Younger was also charged with misdemeanor assault stemming from the Union Twp. investigation. Both were transported to the Highland County Justice Center where they made their initial appearance in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday May 1, 2006. Scott’s bond was set at $20,000 and Younger’s bond was set at $5,000.

The drugs and paraphernalia will be sent to the BCI Lab in London for further forensic evaluation. The case will be presented to the Highland County Prosecutors Office for an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are likely against Scott and Younger.  

Sheriff Seeks Information On Wanted Person

 The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is currently seeking information concerning the whereabouts of Miguel Espericueta age 25.   

Espericueta was originally charged with Rape and later convicted of Gross Sexual Imposition in Highland County Common Pleas Court on April 27, 2005.  At that time Espericueta was sentenced to four years in prison.  In November 2005, Espericueta was released from prison on Judicial Release and was deported to Mexico in December 2005.  Espericueta has since returned to the country and has been seen in the Hillsboro and Leesburg areas.

 Espericueta currently has a capias warrant out of Common Pleas Court and a warrant for Failure to Register as a Sexual Offender. 

Espericueta is a male, Hispanic, 5’06” tall, approximately 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. 

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the Highland County Sheriff’s Office at (937) 393-1421.  You may remain anonymous if you wish.  Please do not approach this individual, and contact law enforcement right away. A photo of  Espericueta is on our webpage under "Most Wanted".

Search Warrant Results in Four Arrests

On Friday, March 17, 2006 Deputies with the Highland County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at 2920 State Route 136 in Concord Township after a four week drug investigation. 

Located in the search warrant was over four pounds of processed marijuana, over ten grams of methamphetamine, large amounts of pseudoephedrine and various types of drug paraphernalia.

Arrested in the search warrant were David D. Wilson age 32, Brad A. Stivers age 42, Jeremy D. Jones age 27 of Hillsboro and Todd A. Baucom age 28 of Winchester.

Wilson was charged with aggravated possession of methamphetamine, a felony of the third degree. Stivers was charged with illegal assembly of chemicals, a felony of the third degree. Jones was charged with tampering with evidence, a felony of the third degree. Baucom is being held on 72 hour investigative hold with charges pending. 

Wilson, Stivers and Jones are being held on $70,000 bonds and will be arraigned in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday, March 20, 2006 before the honorable Judge David McKenna.

The case will also be presented to Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey for presentation to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are possible.

Meth  Lab Discovered in Marshall Township

On Thursday, March 9, 2006, deputies with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office responded to 11794 State Route 124, in Marshall Township, after a citizen complaint was received of a strong smell of ammonia in the air. 

Upon arrival to this residence, deputies discovered what appeared to be an active meth lab in operation.  The scene was secured and an investigation revealed numerous items present utilized in the manufacture of methamphetamine.  Anhydrous ammonia was also discovered at the residence.  Located at this residence were, Jeremy E. Newman, age 29, and Marla Everhart, age 24.  Newman’s vehicle was also found to have items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine.  Also located during the search were several grams of methamphetamine and a large amount of ephedrine. 

Both Newman and Everhart were taken into custody and charged with Illegal Assembly of Chemicals, which is a felony of the felony of the third degree.  Both subjects were arraigned in The Hillsboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge David McKenna earlier this morning and are currently being held on a $70,000.00 bond.  A preliminary hearing has been set for March 16, 2006, at 8:00 a.m.  The case will also be presented to Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.  

Sheriff Ward reminds citizens of the importance of providing information to law enforcement of suspicious things they observe or detect within their neighborhoods.  The vigilance of citizens is important in fighting crime and protecting our community.  The current case gives credence that information from citizens is important and greatly assists law enforcement.

Fugitive Arrested

 On Wednesday, February 15, 2006, Bentley Chad Penwell, age 23 of Coss Road, Hillsboro was arrested by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office on outstanding warrants.

Detectives had gone to a residence on Coss Road and upon arrival, noticed a male subject, identified as Bentley C. Penwell, running from the rear of the residence on foot.  A short chase ensued and Penwell was able to elude deputies.  A short time later, Penwell was located attempting to leave the area in a vehicle.  Also assisting in the search were the Highland County Sheriff’s Office aircraft, K-9 unit, and an officer from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. 

Penwell had outstanding warrants for Failure To Appear out of Highland County Common Pleas Court.    Penwell had pled guilty to Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs on October 26, 2005, and was set for sentencing on November 30, 2005, at which time Penwell failed to appear in court.  Penwell was also on felony probation for Failure to Comply with the Order or Signal of a Police Officer and Criminal Damaging, and was set for a probation violation hearing for November 30, 2005, and also failed to appear.  

Penwell is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center and will appear in the near future before the Honorable Judge Jeff Hoskins in The Highland County Common Pleas Court.

ARREST MADE ON SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE

Sheriff Ron Ward reports that on Tuesday, February 14, 2006, Scott B. Loch, age 38, of Hillsboro was arrested by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office on Rape charges.

The specific charge was one count of Rape, a felony of the first degree.  The charges were the result of an investigation by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office into allegations that Scott Loch had sexually assaulted an adult female co-worker whom he was giving a ride home, during the morning hours of February 14, 2006.

Loch was arraigned before the Honorable Judge David McKenna in The Hillsboro Municipal Court, on February 15, 2006, where he entered a plea of not guilty.  Loch’s bond was set at $20,000.00, plus electronic monitoring, house arrest, and no contact with victim or her household.  A preliminary hearing has been scheduled in The Hillsboro Municipal Court for February 23, 2006, at 9:00 a.m.  Loch remains incarcerated at the Highland County Justice Center at this time.

The case will also be presented to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Grandey for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury.

One Person Arrested on Drug Related Charge Following Traffic Stop

On Friday February 10, 2006 Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office were conducting surveillance on an individual suspected of being involved with the illegal manufacture of Methamphetamine in Highland County. The suspect had left a residence in Clinton County and was driving south on US 62 near Gum Springs Rd. north of Samantha. The suspect was then stopped for an equipment violation by a marked patrol unit with the HCSO. The driver was found to be Francis J. Jordan II age 28 of Fayetteville, Ohio. He was found to be under a driving suspension and taken into custody.  While inventorying the vehicle Jordan was driving, detectives located a gas mask with filter, hypodermic needles, hoses, glass jars with liquid substances and finished Methamphetamine. 

Jordan was transported to the HCJC where he was charged with traffic violations and Illegal Assembly of Chemicals to Manufacture Methamphetamine, a 4^th Degree felony. He appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday February 13, 2006 where his bond was continued at $70,000.  His case will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges will be considered. 

During the time Jordan was stopped in Highland County, Detectives requested Clinton County Sheriff’s Office to check the residence that Jordan was observed leaving earlier. When CCSO checked the residence they located additional Methamphetamine and needles along with several firearms. CCSO authorities will also be working an investigation on Jordan and additional charges may be filed as a result of that investigation.

Two Arrested After Attempted Anhydrous Ammonia Theft 

On Monday February 13, 2006 at 3:02 am, an Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper on patrol observed two individuals running from the Royster-Clark fertilizer plant on SR 321 in the Village of Mowrystown. The trooper then called for assistance from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office. Once on the scene, deputies discovered evidence indicating that the two suspects who fled had been attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia from a large storage tank at Royster-Clark. Deputies then started tracking the suspects in a westerly direction from the plant, using the suspects footprints in the freshly fallen snow. At 6:06 am, the HCSO received a call from the 2300 block of SR 321 stating that their was a suspicious male at the door. Deputies responded and found it was one of the suspects they were looking for. The second suspect was taken into custody at 7:07 am in a wooded area along South Gath Rd. in Clay Twp. 

The suspects were identified as Woodrow Wilson age 44 of Felicity, Ohio and Nathan Ambercombe age 18 of Felicity, Ohio. They were both transported to the Highland County Justice Center. Wilson was charged with Conspiracy to Manufacture Drugs, a 4^th degree felony and Ambercombe was charged with attempted theft. 

Wilson is being held at the HCJC under $90,000 bond, while Ambercombe was released on bond. Both are making their initial appearance in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Wednesday February 15, 2006. The case is continuing to be investigated and will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are possible.  

Attorney General Jim Petro Awards D.A.R.E Grant to Highland County Sheriff's Office

As a cosponsor of Ohio's D.A.R.E. program, Attorney General Jim Petro Recently awarded an $11,160 grant to the HIghland County Sheriff's Office for the 2005-2006 school year. The grant is a portion of the more than $3.5 million being divided amongst 216 law enforcement agencies statewide. The grant money will be used to pay up to half of the specially trained D.A.R.E Officer's salaries. 

"I appreciate the dedication of Highland County Sheriff Ward's office to Ohio's D.A.R.E program," Petro said. "The success of D.A.R.E. is a direct result of deputies who work diligently to empower Ohio's children with the knowledge and self-confidence to steer clear of drug and alcohol abuse."

Petro, along with the D.A.R.E Grant Advisory Board awarded grants to fully fund every law enforcement agency that applied. The amount of the grant money for each agency is calculated in part by the funds requested along with the size of the agency. Of the 216 agencies, 50 are sheriff's offices and 166 are police departments. out of 88 counties, 66 are participating in the program.

Attorney General Jim Petro has always been a strong supporter of the D.A.R.E program. When Ohio's D.A.R.E funding was in jeopardy, he testified before the General Assembly in support of restoring the fund.

Attorney General Jim Petro Announces Highland County Sheriff Awarded Grant to Upgrade Fingerprint Technology

Attorney General Jim Petro Announced that the Highland County Sheriff's Office has been selected to receive a grant of $39,928 to upgrade its Livescan fingerprinting system. The grant allows the agency to select an Ohio-certified vendor of its choice and be reimbursed for the purchase of the latest equipment used to electronically capture the fingerprints and palm prints of criminal suspects upon arrest.

"Upgrading this equipment is essential to ensuring that Ohio's criminal-history database remains a complete and reliable resource for our law enforcement agencies," Petro said. "Additionally, this technology will greatly reduce the resources expended on fingerprint processing by local agencies and the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI)."

The Livescan units funded by this project consist of a computerized booking station with both 10-print and palm-capture capability, a rugged stand, duplex printer, installation, training and three years of vendor maintenance and support. Petro and BCI are in the process of dispersing nearly $2 million in federal grant money to approximately 50 law enforcement agencies in need of equipment upgrades. Meanwhile, Petro is seeking additional funding to equip 40 more agencies with new units. Awards are based on an agency's annual number of fingerprint submissions, as well as population size and number of agencies served.

BCI, which is housed within the Criminal Justice Section of the Attorney General's Office, maintains the state's criminal-history repository and Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). BCI is currently in the process of expanding AFIS's capabilities to accommodate palm prints, which can be captured by the new Livescan equipment.

One Adult and Three Juvenile Arrested in Connection with Numerous Area Burglary and Theft Cases 

On January 15, 2006, the HCSO received a call from a citizen reporting suspicious activity involving two off road motorcycles on Beechwood Rd. A deputy was dispatched to the area and located the two motorcycles and two males. Upon further investigation it was found that the two motorcycles were stolen from a Marshall Twp home. The two males were then taken into custody. Upon further investigation, Deputies went to a home on North Shore Drive and recovered an additional Suzuki ATV which had been stolen from Pike County and took two juveniles into custody. Deputies then conducted further interviews of suspects which led them to another location in Highland County where additional stolen property was recovered to include televisions, stereo equipment, tools, lawn mowers and two additional four wheelers. Deputies determined through their investigation that the four individuals in custody, one adult and three juveniles were responsible for several residential burglaries and thefts of ATV’s in the Rocky Fork Lake area of Highland County and at least one theft in Pike County. The three juveniles arrested in this case were released to their parents on house arrest and the adult, Devon Wells age 18 of Hillsboro is being held on $5000.00 bond on a burglary charge at the Highland County Justice Center and will be arraigned on January 17, 2006 in the Hillsboro Municipal Court. The Juveniles will be charged in Highland County Juvenile Court.

Wells case will be given to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury where additional charges are likely and detectives anticipate additional arrests of other individuals as the case continues to unfold and other persons of interest are interviewed by detectives.

Local Man Arrested after Search Warrant Served on Paint Twp Home

 On Monday January 16, 2006, Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant at 10367 Morrison Rd. in Paint Twp. The warrant to search culminated a two month investigation into the theft of an identity of a man from the State of California. The identity of the California man was used to get a fraudulent State of Ohio Photo ID and then used to set up fraudulent bank accounts, credit card accounts, US Post Office Boxes and an account through the online sales business known as Ebay. HCSO detectives are also working to find victims around the State of Ohio and the United States who may have been scammed by either purchasing stolen property via Ebay or purchased and paid for items that they never received. 

HCSO Detectives seized six computers from the home during the search as well as stolen property and documents used in the identity theft and Ebay fraud cases. Detectives are also working with the State of Ohio BMV, The Wilmington Police Department, Chillicothe Police Department, Amberley Village Police Department, The Ohio BCI and other agencies as it is uncovered where some of the crimes may have occurred. 

Detectives arrested Robert B. Tillis age 32 of Hillsboro at the Morrison Rd. home upon the execution of the search warrant. He will be charged with Identity Theft and Forgery in Chillicothe and will be arraigned in Chillicothe Municipal Court later this week. He is currently being held under bond on those charges. 

Highland County Law Enforcement and Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey will be meeting with other law enforcement agencies and their respective prosecutors to determine what charges will be filed in the future and where those charges will be filed as this case takes in several jurisdictions throughout southwest Ohio.

Arrests Made on Robbery Case

 On December 18, 2005, an armed robbery was reported at the Country Corner Market in Madison Township outside of Greenfield.  Deputies and Detectives were called to the scene and an investigation was initiated.  It was reported that two men wearing masks had entered the store, and one brandished a weapon.  The suspects demanded money from the clerks and fled the scene with an undetermined amount of money. 

On December 22, 2005, the Greenfield Police Department received information that a business in the City of Greenfield was going to be involved in a break in.  An investigation by the Greenfield Police Department, lead to a traffic stop in Greenfield, which resulted in subjects being taken into custody.  Upon the subjects being taken into custody, it was learned that at least one of the subjects had been involved in the armed robbery at the Country Corner Market.  Deputies and Detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office were contacted and conducted interviews.  It was determined that the subjects taken into custody by the Greenfield Police had been the same subjects who had committed the armed robbery at the Country Corner Market.  Evidence was also located, which linked the subjects to the crime. 

Arrested and charged with Aggravated Armed Robbery were: 

Derrick M. Chapman, age 23, of Forest Park, Ohio

Willie Jackson, age 22, of Greenfield, Ohio

Anthony A. Ford, age 20, of Greenfield, Ohio

 All three subjects are scheduled to be arraigned in County Court in Greenfield before the Honorable Judge Robert Judkins, on Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at 8:00 a.m.  The case remains open with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office at this time, and will be presented to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible.

Update on Death of Missing Female

The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office has released the preliminary autopsy findings regarding the death of Tammy A. Ballein, age 25, of Highland County.

According to preliminary results of the autopsy, hypothermia was likely the contributing factor to the death of Tammy A. Ballein.  The autopsy found no visible signs of trauma to the body and based upon the temperatures and weather conditions during the time Ballein went missing, as well as the clothing Ballein was found to be wearing, the elements were a factor in Ballein’s death. 

 The toxicology report and other testing are not yet available, so it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were a factor.  The investigation remains open at this time in order to consider all factors in the case.  An adult male was taken into custody related to the case, but was later released.

 The case was initiated after a report was received on December 18, 2005, that Ballein was missing.  Investigators searched the area, and on December 20, 2005, while searching a wooded area in Washington Township, the body of Ballein was located.  A search of the area revealed no signs of foul play.  The area was found to be snow covered and the temperatures, especially with the wind chill factor, over the time period Ballein was missing, were contributing factors in the case.

Body Found in Missing Persons Case

 The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of a body in a wooded area in Washington Twp. southeast of Hillsboro. The body has been identified as Tammy A. Ballein, age 25, of Hillsboro. 

Ms. Ballein had been reported missing to the Highland County Sheriff’s Office on Sunday December 18, 2005 at 4:00 pm. by family members. She reportedly had been last seen on December 17, 2005 but was missing under suspicious circumstances due to her domestic situation and past incidents of domestic violence. Family members and Sheriff’s Detectives searched the immediate area around her home without success. On Tuesday December 20, 2005, Sheriff’s Detectives were searching a wooded area near where Ms. Ballein resided for clues in her disappearance when they discovered her body. The death is being treated as suspicious death and are trying to determine whether foul play was involved her death.  Highland County Coroner Dr. Paul Terrell was called to the scene and ordered the body removed to the Montgomery County Coroners Office for Autopsy. Ohio BCI Agents were also called for assistance in processing the body and the area around where the body was located.

Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office have taken an adult male into custody for questioning in this case. The HCSO is not releasing the name of this individual as he has not been charged with any crime.

 HCSO Detectives are continuing their on scene investigation at the time of this release.

Man Being Held on Suspicion of Murder

The Highland County Sheriff's Office is investigating the murder of a female Monday evening at the Greystone Motel in Liberty Twp. On Monday, November 29, 2005 at 8:31 PM the Highland County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call from the manager on duty at the Greystone Motel reporting a disturbance and suspicious circumstances in one of the rooms. Deputies responded and found a female unresponsive and called for EMS. The Hillsboro Life Squad responded to the scene and EMT's Declared the female deceased. It was determined that she died of violent means and deputies secured the area as a crime scene. The victim was identified as Debra P. Lockhart, age 46 of Peebles, Ohio. HCSO Detectives, investigators from the Highland County Coroner's Office and agents from the Ohio BCI&I processed the scene for evidence. During the preliminary investigation into the homicide, a person of interest was developed. He was picked up by the Adams County Sheriff's Office and the Peebles Police Department at his residence in Peebles at approximately 9:30 PM on Monday at the request of HCSO Detectives. He is identified as Kenneth H. Nichols, age 68 of Peebles. He is currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under the suspicion of murder at the time of this release and homicide related charges could be filed later on Tuesday, November 29, 2005.

The victim's body was removed to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office for the autopsy and cause of death determination. Evidence has been transported to the Ohio BCI&I Crime Lab in London, Ohio for forensic testing and evaluation. The case remains under investigation. 

Three Arrested on Methamphetamine Related Charges

On Friday November 18, 2005, an officer with the Ohio Adult Parole Authority was conducting a home visit of a probationer in Paint Twp. on Maple Trail. The officer detected that persons were inside the residence but would not answer the door and requested assistance from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office. Before deputies arrived, the APA officer observed two males leave the residence in a vehicle. The APA officer followed the vehicle to a house on Rittenhouse Rd. where the two males exited the vehicle and went inside the residence. Deputies arrived shortly thereafter and noticed a strong odor of anhydrous ammonia coming from the vehicle that two had been operating.  The vehicle was secured for a search warrant and the house was entered by deputies and three suspects were located inside. The house was also secured until a search warrant could be obtained. Once a search warrant was obtained a fully operational Methamphetamine lab was located in the trunk of the vehicle that was observed leaving the Maple Trail home. The items in the trunk included an altered propane tank containing anhydrous ammonia, jars of liquid ether soaking psuedoephedrine, starting fluid, lithium battery strips, coffee filters and latex gloves. Items located in the house were a large amount of crushed psuedoephedrine pills and lithium batteries, some of which were in the process of being stripped. HCSO detectives arrested three males for Illegal Assembly of Chemical used in the manufacture of Methamphetamine, a felony 3, and bond was set at $70,000 on each defendant. The three arrested were:

 Ronnie D. Rhoads, age 41 of Hillsboro

 Donald L. McKenzie, age 29 of Greenfield

 Joseph A. Schrimper, age 28, of Hillsboro

 All three will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday November 21, 2005 at 8:00 am for their arraignment. The case will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges may result.

Man Arrested on Drug Charges After Traffic Stop by Deputy

 On Saturday November 19, 2005 at 11:00 pm a deputy on routine patrol stopped a vehicle for speeding on US 62 north of Samantha in Penn Twp. The driver was identified as Jamie L. Jones age 30 of Washington CH, Ohio. The HCSO Canine Unit was requested to the scene of the stop. Once on scene the canine was taken around the vehicle for a check of illegal narcotics. The canine alerted on the vehicle and a probable cause search was conducted in the vehicle. Found inside the vehicle was a set of scales with cocaine residue. Jones was also searched incident to arrest and approximately 200 grams of crack cocaine and over $2300.00 was seized from him. The Crack Cocaine recovered as evidence has a street value of approximately $20,000. He was charged with Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a felony 3, with bond set at $10,000. He will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on November 21, 2005 for his arraignment. The case will be presented to the Highland County Prosecutors Office for later presentation to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are possible.

ATTENTION WOMEN! 

REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM

Sheriff Ron Ward would like encourage  you to attend the National Rifle Association's Refuse To Be a Victim Seminar. Protect yourself and your family from today's criminal by attending this crime prevention and personal safety seminar. You will get the tools you need to develop your own personal safety strategy, including information on: 

• The Psychology of Criminal Mind

• Home & Phone Security

• Automobile & Travel Security

• Personal & Technological Security

• Self-Defense Tools & Training Options

Date: Saturday, December 10, 2005

Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM(approximate ending time)

Location: Highland County Coonhunters, Carper Lane, Hillsboro, Ohio

Cost: $20.00(includes Student Handbook, RTBAV Key Ring & Pen)

Certified Instructors: Jerry & Karen Miller

Space is Limited!!

Call Karen Miller, 937-764-1238 now to register or for more information!

Couple Arrested for Endangering Children

On Friday, October 28, 2005, at 9:54 pm, the Highland County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a four year-old child being taken to the Emergency Room at Fayette Memorial Hospital with suspicious burns on him.  The child was then transported to Children’s Hospital in Columbus, where he remains at this time.  Doctors at Children’s Hospital have determined that the burn injury to the child was the result of abuse.  This included second-degree burns to the legs and knees of the victim.  The child was also found to have bruises and a bite mark on him, which are also suspicious in nature. 

 Upon Sheriff’s Office detectives investigating the matter, it was discovered that Jerry Lee Garinger, age 20, who is the boyfriend of the child’s mother, had caused the burn marks to the child.  On October 31, 2005, Jerry Lee Garinger was charged with Endangering Children, a felony of the second degree, due to the seriousness of the injuries to the child.  Garinger is currently awaiting sentencing in Fayette County for felony Domestic Violence, after having pled guilty to an indictment in The Fayette County Common Pleas Court on October 12, 2005.

 Also charged was Michelle Brown, age 25, of Highland County.  Michelle Brown is the mother of the child and was charged with Endangering Children, a felony of the third degree.  The charges against Brown stem from failing to seek medical treatment or protect her child after the child was discovered to have the burn marks.  Due to the seriousness of the original injuries, the charge becomes a felony. 

Both Garinger and Brown remain in custody at the Highland County Justice Center, where Garinger is being held on a $100,000.00 bond and Brown is under a $10,000.00, bond.  Both are scheduled for arraignment in The Hillsboro Municipal Court on Thursday, November 3, 2005, before The Honorable Judge David McKenna.  The case will also be presented to Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey’s Office for presentation to an upcoming session of the Highland County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible. 

Two Arrested after Remnants of Mobile Lab Found in Vehicle

On August 31, 2005, Deputies and Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to locate David A. Weller age 33 of Greenfield, on a Grand Jury Indictment from Fayette County for Assembly of Chemicals to Manufacture Methamphetamine. At 9:20 PM the vehicle Weller was supposed to be in was spotted by an officer with the Leesburg Police Department. The Leesburg Officer followed the vehicle and deputies stopped the vehicle on SR 72 just north of US 62 near the community of Samantha. Weller was found driving the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident. A passenger in the vehicle, Jerrime L. Furguson, age 31 of Sabina, was held during the investigation. The vehicle the two were in was searched and several grams of Methamphetamine were located in the vehicle along with several items and chemicals associated with the manufacture of Methamphetamine. Both Weller and Furguson were transported to the Highland County Justice Center and both were charged Illegal Assembly of Chemicals for the Manufacture of Meth and Aggravated Possession of Drugs, both felonies. There bond was set at $120,000 each and they will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Friday September 1, 2005 for their arraignment. The case will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges may come.

Ferguson Harbor Environmental Inc. was called to the scene of the traffic stop for purposes of disposal of the hazardous chemicals and compounds that were found in the vehicle at the time of the stop. 

Two Arrested on Felony Drug Charges

On Friday July 15, 2005, Detectives with the Highland County Sheriff’s Office and agents with the Pipeline 23 Drug Task force arrested two adults in ongoing investigations into illegal drug activity in Highland County. Joey Fender age 26 of Hillsboro and James R. (Jamie) Lykins age 23 of Hillsboro were arrested after a transaction of several ounces of crack cocaine was made between the two and an undercover agent.  Fender and Lykins were then immediately arrested at the location of the transaction, a business on the east side of Hillsboro.  The crack cocaine and a small amount of cash were seized as evidence in the case against the two. A one year old child, belonging to Fender, was also in the vehicle at the time of the transaction and was taken into protective custody and later turned over to a family member.

 Both Fender and Lykins were charged with one count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a 1^st degree felony. Lykins was also issued a holder from the Ohio Adult Parole Authority for a probation violation from a previous drug conviction. Both are being held at the Highland County Justice Center under $20,000 bond and will appear in Hillsboro Municipal Court on July 21, 2005 for a preliminary hearing. 

The case continues to be under investigation by the HCSO and will be forwarded to the Highland County Prosecutors Office where it will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are possible against both individuals in this case.  

  Highland County Common Pleas Court Employee Indicted by Grand Jury

On Tuesday, June 7, 2005, the Highland County Grand Jury returned an indictment on Tammy Sandlin, age 39 of Hillsboro. The indictment specifies two counts including Tampering with Evidence, a felony of the third degree and Forgery, a felony of the fifth degree.

The indictments are a result of a two-month investigation by the Highland County Sheriff's Office and Special Prosecutor David Henry of the Clinton County Prosecutor's Office, following a complaint that original court records maintained by the Highland County Clerk of Courts had been altered in a fashion with intent to reduce the court costs associated with the case. The court records in question were that of a 1994 divorce case in which Sandlin was a party. The investigation revealed that the forgery allegedly occurred during Sandlin's working hours as a Highland County Common Pleas Court employee and that she used her position with the court to have access to the files in question. Sandlin has been in the Highland County Court of Common Pleas since February 2003.

Sandlin was arraigned in the Highland County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday, June 8, 2005 at 12 noon before a Visiting Judge assigned to the case.

Arrest Warrant Leads To Methamphetamine Lab

 On Thursday, May 12, 2005, during the early morning hours, deputies from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office went to 6019 West Welcome Road in Liberty Township, in order to attempt pick up on a subject who had outstanding warrants.  Upon arrival to the home, deputies discovered an active meth lab in progress.  At that time, the homeowners, Jeffrey D. Nagle, age 31, and Lori A. Nagle, age 31, were found to be involved in the production of methamphetamine.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Nagle were taken into custody and the residence was secured.  A search warrant was subsequently obtained and executed by Detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, a K-9 officer from the Hillsboro Police Department, and investigators from the 23 Pipeline Taskforce.

Upon a search of the property, a full meth lab was discovered in the garage area of the home.  Weapons, surveillance equipment, and other items related to the manufacture of methamphetamine were located.  Numerous items were seized as evidence and Ferguson Harbour Environmental Company was called to the scene to dispose of the hazardous materials. 

Both Jeffrey and Lori Nagle were charged with Illegal Assembly of Chemicals, a felony of the third degree.  Both are currently being held at the Highland County Justice Center under a $70,000.00 cash or surety bond and are scheduled to appear for arraignment before the Honorable Judge David McKenna in Hillsboro Municipal Court, on Friday, May 13, 2005, at 8:00 a.m.  The case will be presented to Highland County Prosecuting Attorney James Grandey for review and presentation to the Grand Jury, where further charges are possible.

Indictment Issued on Murder of Cynthia Pickens

Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward and Highland County Prosecutor Jim Grandey report that a special session of the Highland County Grand Jury met on Monday, April 11, 2005.  During this session, a three-count indictment was handed down against, Michael D. Fogt, age 39, of Highland County, for the murder of Cynthia A. Pickens in November 2003.

The specific counts of the indictment are one count of Murder, a felony of the first degree; one count of Tampering with Evidence, a felony of the third degree; and one count of Abuse of a Corpse, a felony of the fifth degree. 

The charges stem from the March 15, 2005, discovery of human remains at the former location of an automotive repair shop Fogt operated during 2003, just east of Hillsboro.  The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office identified the remains as those of Cynthia A. Pickens.  Ms. Pickens had been reported as missing since November 2003, and was a former girlfriend of Fogt’s.  The remains had been found in a shallow grave within the repair shop and it appears that Fogt had transported the body to this location after he had killed Ms. Pickens at another location within Highland County.

Fogt also has charges pending against him in Clinton County, after Fogt confessed to killing his wife, Martha Behymer, in 1998, in Clinton County and then placing the body in a barrel and burying it under some concrete at his parents’ house in Hillsboro.

Fogt is currently incarcerated at the Highland County Justice Center under a $500,000.00 bond and a holder from Clinton County.  Fogt is currently scheduled to appear before The Honorable Judge Jeffrey J. Hoskins of the Highland County Court of Common Pleas for arraignment on April 20, 2005, at 1:00 p.m., in the Hillsboro Municipal Courtroom.

One Suspect Arrested in Connection with Construction Site Thefts

 On Monday March 28, 2005, Detectives from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office arrested Timothy J. Wisby age 30 of Adams County for Breaking and Entering. The arrest took place after the Adams County Sheriff’s Office was conducting an unrelated investigation at a residence on Cow Run Rd. in Bratton Twp near the Highland/Adams County Line.

 A large amount of stolen property was recovered during the investigation by Highland and Adams County Detectives. The property included construction related tools and material. All of the items recovered were believed to stolen from various construction sites throughout Highland County over the past year. There was also a large amount of construction material recovered that is believed to belong to a lumberyard in Hillsboro. Wisby worked as a delivery driver for that company and delivered material to the sites and then later went back and removed tools and other equipment from the various sites.

 Highland County Detectives are working through open cases and trying to tie the recovered property to the related theft cases.

Wisby will be arraigned on one count of Breaking and Entering, a 5^th Degree Felony on Wednesday March 30, 2005 in Hillsboro Municipal Court. The case will continue to be investigated and will be presented to an upcoming grand jury where additional charges are expected against Wisby.     

Man Charged with Felonious Assault in Neuhaus Missing Person Case

 Highland County Sheriff’s Detectives have filed Felonious Assault, a second degree felony, against Shawn A. Deardoff involving the Shane Neuhaus missing persons case. Neuhaus was last seen in September 2003 in the presence of Deardoff. It is alleged that Deardoff beat Neuhaus at a Liberty Twp. location causing at the very least, serious physical harm. Neuhaus has not been seen since that evening. 

 Deardoff is being held in the Highland County Jail under 50,000 cash bond and will be arraigned on Monday March 21, 2005 at 8:00 pm in Hillsboro Municipal Court. 

 Michael Fogt is also set for arraignment in Hillsboro Municipal Court on Monday for Murder, Abuse of a Corpse and Tampering with Evidence in the murder of Cynthia Pickens whose body was found in a makeshift grave on Tuesday March 15, 2004 in Liberty Twp.  

 Second Homicide Victim Identified

 The body of a female which was located at 643 South West Street, Hillsboro on March 17, 2005 has been identified as Martha A. Behymer aka Martha A. Perry, originally from Erlanger,Kentucky. Ms. Behymer’s body was preserved well enough that fingerprints were obtained, ran through AFIS and identified. Ms.Behymer was 32 years of age at the time of the murder in 1998. 

Ms. Behymer and Michael Fogt have a 14 yr old daughter together.  The daughter has been in the custody of Fogt’s parents for the last several years.

 Investigation is still ongoing to where the murder took place, but it is believed that it was not in Highland County. The Highland County Sheriff’s Office will be working with other jurisdictions to establish a location of the murder scene. 

Michael Fogt, age 40 of Hillsboro, Ohio has been charged with Murder, Tampering with Evidence and Gross Abuse of a Corpse. His bond has been set at $500,000. Fogt will be arraigned Monday, March 21, 2005 at 8:00 AM in Hillsboro Municipal Court before the honorable Judge David Mckenna.

Both homicides remain under investigation with  ongoing interviews of witnesses and persons of interest.

Search Warrant Executed at a Property in Hillsboro to Excavate Ground in Search of Additional Body in Murder Investigation

 Highland County Sheriff’s Detectives are executing a search warrant at 643 Southwest St. in Hillsboro at the time of this release. Detectives will be excavating an area on the property in search of remains involving a homicide investigation. Further information concerning this case will be release as it becomes available. 

Updated Information (March 17, 2005 @ 7:00 pm)

 Highland County Sheriff’s Detectives served the search warrant at a residence located at 643 Southwest St. in Hillsboro at 3:00 pm this date.  Sheriff’s Detectives excavated an area near the driveway of the residence which had poured concrete covering it. A 55 gallon drum was found beneath the concrete buried in the ground. Inside the barrel, HCSO Detectives located the body of an adult female. It is believed that the victim was killed in 1998 and buried at this location. The body was ordered removed to the Montgomery County Coroners Office for forensic evaluation, autopsy and confirmation of identity. 

Detectives will be filing Murder, Abuse of a Corpse and Tampering with Evidence Charges on Michael Fogt age 40 of Hillsboro as it relates to the recovery of Cynthia Pickens body on March 15, 2005 in Highland County.

Homicide Victim Identified

The body of a female found in a shallow grave on Tuesday in Highland County has been identified as Cynthia A. Pickens of Hillsboro. Pickens had been reported missing in November of 2003. It is believed she was killed in the timeframe she was reported missing and was 39 years old at the time of her disappearance. It has been determined that she was the victim of homicide. A unidentified suspect has been interviewed and homicide related charges could be filed on this person sometime today or tomorrow (Friday).

Body Located in Shallow Grave in Liberty Township

Highland County Sheriff Ronald Ward reports that Detectives with HCSO and an agent from Ohio BCI unearthed a body in a shallow grave at a location east of Hillsboro in Liberty Township late on Tuesday March 15, 2005. Initial investigation shows that body discovered is the victim of Homicide.

 Detectives have been working missing persons cases, two in particular, over the past year and developed recent information that led them to the location where the body was located. Detectives prepared a search warrant for the property in question and executed the warrant at 3:00 pm on March 15, 2005. At approximately 10:00 pm, detectives unearthed a body inside of a metal building located on the property in question. The area within the structure had a concrete slab floor with the exception of one area in which a 5 foot by 5 foot slab of the concrete had been cut out and filled to floor level with gravel. Detectives located the presence of blood on the floor and walls of the building and eventually excavated the 5 foot by 5 foot area where they discovered the makeshift grave and the body buried approximately two foot down.  

Highland County Coroner, Dr. Paul Terrell, was called to the scene and the body was removed to the Montgomery County Morgue for autopsy and forensic evaluation. Preliminary results of the autopsy showed that the victim was an adult female was killed by violent means and placed in the makeshift grave. 

The Highland County Sheriff’s Office is continuing it’s on scene investigation at the time of this release and are working with pathologists and the Montgomery County Coroners Office to determine the identity of the victim and other pertinent information to assist in the investigation. 

Two Arrested on Methamphetamine Related Charges After Search Warrant Executed at Union Township Home

  On Thursday March 10, 2005 at 6:19 pm, Deputies and an officer with the Adult Parole Authority went to 7730 Spickard Rd. after a warrant was issued for the resident, Scott Barber, for a Probation Violation stemming from a Methamphetamine arrest in February 2004. Upon arrival at the residence, Scott Barber ran from the residence. A K-9 officer from the Hillsboro Police Department was requested and tracked Barber and later apprehended him. Upon further check of the residence on Spickard Rd, two other individuals were located inside as well as a strong odor of ammonia emitting from an attached garage. 

The residence was secured and a search warrant was obtained for the residence and was executed at approx. 9:00 pm on 3/10/05. Located in the residence were multiple cylinders of anhydrous ammonia, jars with liquid substance and a large amount of freshly made Methamphetamine along with a firearm and other items associated with the Illegal Manufacture of Methamphetamine. 

Arrested and charged with Illegal Assembly of Chemicals were Scott Barber, age 24 of Lynchburg and Travis Sprinkle, age 26 of Hillsboro. Both are being held in the Highland County Justice Center under $70,000 bond each. The case is still under investigation and items are being sent for evaluation at Ohio BCI. The case will be presented to an upcoming Grand Jury where additional charges are likely.

Sexual Predator Arrested in Indictment

 Sheriff Ron Ward reports that on Wednesday, March 9, 2005, Gary N. Simpson, age 34, of Highland County, was arrested on an indictment for Failure To Register A Change Of Address As A Sex Offender, a felony of the second degree.

 Simpson was required to register as a sexual predator, after he was convicted of Attempted Rape in Highland County on March 13, 1990. Simpson had been indicted by the Highland County Grand Jury on November 4, 2004, after he allegedly moved from his residence without informing the Highland County Sheriff’s Office or the Sheriff’s Office where he intended to move, that he was changing his address. Since the time of the indictment, Simpson was at large.  

Simpson was arrested in Clermont County on March 9, 2005, on the indictment from Highland County, as well as an Adult Parole Authority holder, as Simpson is also on supervision.  

Indictment Issued on Rape Case

 On Tuesday, March 1, 2005, the Highland County Grand Jury handed down a four-count indictment against Patrick B. Snider, age 33, of Columbus.

The specific counts of the indictment are two counts of Rape, both felonies of the first degree, and two counts of Gross Sexual Imposition, both felonies of the third degree.  The indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by Sheriff’s Detectives on a case originally reported in April 2000.  New information had been reported in November 2004, which resulted in the current charges.  The charges against Snider stem from allegations he sexually assaulted a family member, who was a minor at the time.  Snider was living in Highland County at the time of the alleged offenses.  Assistance was also provided during the investigation by the Columbus Police Department.

Snider is currently being held in the Franklin County Jail awaiting extradition to Highland County.  Snider is currently scheduled to appear before The Honorable Judge Jeffrey J. Hoskins of the Highland County Court of Common Pleas for arraignment on March 16, 2005, at 1:00 p.m., in the Hillsboro Municipal Courtroom.

Eleven Search Warrants Executed in Highland, Fayette and Ross  Counties following Three-Month Undercover Drug Investigation

 Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward reports that on Saturday, February 26, 2005, forty-five law enforcement officers from nine state, county and local agencies executed 11 search warrants in Highland, Fayette and Ross Counties, culminating a three month undercover investigation into drug trafficking and other criminal activity. Participating agencies in the investigation are the Highland, Fayette and Ross County Sheriff’s Offices, the Hillsboro and Greenfield Police Departments, The Pipeline 23 Drug Task Force, The Ohio Attorney General’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigation Commission, The Ohio Attorney General–Division of BCI and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles-Investigation and Licensing Divisions.

In Highland County, Detectives served seven search warrants at the following locations, Charlie Davis Motors 1585 North High St. Hillsboro, 5671 Charles Lane Hillsboro, 8534 SR 124 Hillsboro, 8810 US 62 Hillsboro, 6491 Beechwood Rd. Hillsboro,  319 Bigleow St. Apt #2 Hillsboro and 605 North 5^th St. Greenfield.  

In Fayette County, Detectives served three search warrants at the following locations, 673 Petticord Ave. Washington C.H., 94 Jamison Rd. Lot #22 Washington C.H., and 7 Vine St. Jeffersonville.

 In Ross County, Detectives served one search warrant at 93 Willowcreek Chillicothe.

 During the various searches, officers seized over $37,000.00 in cash, 2 ½ pounds of processed marijuana, several grams of powder cocaine, several ounces of crack cocaine, a large amount of Oxycontin, Vicodin, and Percocet prescription pills and several doses Ecstasy, a synthetic drug. Also a large amount of firearms were seized, three of which were reported stolen in home burglaries in Ohio and Kentucky. Four ATV’s were also seized, one of which was reported stolen from Kentucky. Six motor vehicles registered to Charlie Davis Motor Sales were also seized, all of which were used in commission of a felony.

 Arrested in Highland County were:

• Charles R. (Bobby) Davis, age 42 of Hillsboro

            - Charged with One Count Possession of Drugs Felony 2-Bond $35000

              and one County of Engaging in Corrupt Activity

• Michael A. (Fuzz) Davis, age 47 of Hillsboro

            -Charged with One Count Possession of Drugs Felony 4-Bond $2500

              and One count of engaging in Corrupt Activity

• Tony Sowards, age 37 of Hillsboro

   -Charged with One Count of Receiving Stolen Property Felony 4-Bond $2500

• Errol Tyrone (Ty) Baker II, age 25 of Hillsboro

-Charged with One Count of Possession of Drugs Felony 4, One Count of Possession of Criminal Tools Felony 5, One Count of Possession of Weapon Under Disability Bond was set at $525,000

Arrested in Fayette County were:

•  Franklin Gray, age 70 of Washington C.H.

   -Charged with one count of Complicity to Trafficking Cocaine Felony 4

• William Myers, age 34 of Washington C.H.

            -Charged with one count of Having a weapon under Disability Felony 4

             and one count of preparation of Cocaine for Sale a Felony 3

• Richard Campbell, age 23 of Washington CH

            -Charged with Possession of MDMA (Ecstasy) Felony 4

 Arrested in Ross County were:

•  Burl W. Brown, age 33 of Chillicothe

            -Charged with weapon under Disability Felony 4

• Robin Beverly, age 50 of Chillicothe

            -Charged with Possession of Drugs Felony 5

 All suspects currently charged in this case will appear in their respective County Courts for arraignments on Monday February 28, 2005. The evidence removed in these cases will be forensically evaluated by Ohio BCI. The case remains under investigation by all agencies involved and law enforcement will be meeting with their respective county prosecutors where the cases will be heard by upcoming grand juries where additional charges are likely along with additional arrests.