Special News Release

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.