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September 3, 2010
The future of surgery is making its way to a Carbon County Hospital. Surgeons at the Gnaden Huetten Memorial Hospital will be the first in the region to perform surgeries in a wireless operating room. This new technology is the first of its kind. The Stryker Endoscopy is a wireless, eco friendly ... high definition system that allows for surgeons to perform laparoscopic procedures with ease. Gnaden Huetten memorial hospital will be the first in the region to have the new Stryker system. It also uses a light source with l-e-d light bulbs that provides a cooler light emission during procedures, and also takes pictures and records video of all the surgeries while inside the operating room. They will begin using the Stryker system early next week.
September 3, 2010
So many of us take for granted the natural beauty of Carbon County. With the three day weekend of beautiful weather ahead of us. Why not stay close to home and start exploring. Over the next month of September, The Carbon County Chamber of Commerce is promoting outdoor activities in our area. There's a little something for everyone. There's mild activities like bird watching and star gazing. You can get more wild with mountain biking and whitewater rafting. Tomorrow may be your last chance to raft the Lehigh Gorge this season. The Army Corps of Engineers has canceled upcoming dam release dates, due to low rain amounts. For a full calender of events and details, go to: www.CarbonCountyChamber.org.
September 3, 2010
Paving work hasn't finished but drivers shouldn't be slowed on Interstate 80 in Monroe County this weekend. Penn-DOT says they've pulled back the work zones on 80 to help ease congestion. There are several projects underway near the 380 split. Most of the work isn't expected to be finished until October or later this fall. Penn-dot says holiday travelers will also be able to take a free coffee break at interstate rest areas this weekend. Starting Tuesday a new paving project begins on I-80 from the Scotrun exit to the new jersey state line, with night lane restrictions from 8-pm to 6-am.
Another road project will impact traffic starting next week at the Delaware Water Gap toll plaza. Peak-period traffic delays are likely as work begins on a new express E-Z Pass/open road tolling lane. Construction starts Tuesday night. A lane shift will be put in place for eastbound motorists and two of the westbound toll lanes will be taken out of service. The restrictions will be in place until the new express E-Z Pass service becomes operational. The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission has created a toll free number for people with concerns. Just dial 866-651-6250. The line is available 24 hours a day.
September 3, 2010
A Pike County man will spend the next two to six years in jail on burglary charges. 32-year old Richard Smith is one of three men charged with the burglary two years ago at a home along Long Meadow Road in Delaware Township. Smith and his co-defendants did construction work at the home. When the owner was away they broke-in and took several items including a safe. The safe contained rare coins and old 100-dollar bills totaling more than 30-thousand dollars. The three men were caught after they tried to spend the money in the area.
September 3, 2010
A court battle over the future of a nude bar in Monroe County hasn't been decided yet, but officials in that community say they're happy with their court case. Jackson Township is trying to close the Thrills adult club along Route 715. The township officials say the club's adult dancing violates their ordinances because it's in a commercial area - not an industrial zone. Thrills has argued in court that they believe they have a legal right to offer nude dancing. The club is still open at this time. The next court hearing is set for September 16 th.
September 3, 2010
We are heading into the last big tourist holiday weekend of the summer. Labor day vacationers are getting settled in and so are the many retailers who are looking forward to cashing in on those tourist dollars.
Stroudfest and the Garlic Festival kick off tomorrow. And the head guy in charge of tourism in Monroe county thinks it will be a good weekend.
Fourth of July and Memorial Day weekend are the other two big tourist events of the summer. Wilgus says things have been pretty good this year. And he's looking forward to next year.
September 3, 2010
A new traffic pattern in Honesdale has its critics. After two years of construction and a price tag of 10 million dollars, Honesdale's main drags through town turned one way last October. The reason for the switch was to keep traffic flowing through town but now, almost a year later, many residents have major concerns. But store owners say the one-way traffic switch has actually helped increase their business. Honesdale Borough says it would cost around one million dollars to change the streets back.
September 2, 2010
In today's high-stress, fast-paced world, it can be all too easy to forget to relax and have fun. Doing yoga and meditating are just some ways to de-stress. But, what about banging on a drum? The Lehigh Valley Drum Circle uses drumming as a therapeutic and healing tool. Seniors, Cancer Patients and those with Mental and Physical disabilities can benefit. Drumming helped Stephanie Schmoyer through breast cancer treatment, earlier this year. She says drumming helped her forget about her problems, during a very hard time. The drum circle is also a great way let go and unwind. You can get more information and learn about the drum circle's upcoming events at: www.LVDrumcircle.com.
September 2, 2010
Should a business group be granted a gaming license to run a casino at a Bushkill resort? The answer to that question was debated at a public meeting today with the Pennsylvania Gaming Board. The Bushkill Group, which operates Fernwood Hotel and Resort, is one of four applicants vying for the states remaining category three casino licenses. And many residents plus community leaders showed up to voice their opinion. For now the decision remains with the gaming board. If approved, Fernwood could bring in up to 600 slot machines and 50 table games. However, the casino would be limited to hotel guests.
September 2, 2010
A Wayne county man will spend five years in prison for downloading child pornography. 63-year old John Linnell of Browndale was indicted by a federal grand jury in 2008 after police had monitored his internet activity for several months. Under the terms of his sentence Linnell will be supervised by police for the rest of his life.
September 2, 2010
Jackson township officials and the owners of a controversial strip bar were back in court this morning. This was the fifth day of hearings between the township and operators of thrills night club. Attorney John Dunn tells News13 the township is seeking a permanent injunction against thrills because they feel the club is participating in activities that meet the definition of an adult cabaret. On Tuesday Thrills manager Ira Whiner told News13 his girls are now permitted to dance totally nude. Dunn says it’s up to President Judge Ronald Vican to determine if the entertainment at thrills qualifies the bar as an adult cabaret. Dunn says adult cabarets are not permitted in commercial zones in Jackson Township, but are allowed in an industrial zone. Final arguments in this case will resume at a later date.
September 2, 2010
An artifact recovered from the September 11th attacks made a pit stop in Pike County this afternoon. The eleven and a half foot beam is on its way to the town of Deerpark across the Delaware River in New York State to help create a September 11th memorial. The beam was recovered from the ruins of the world trade center. Officials made a stop at the Westfall Town Center this afternoon to allow locals to see this piece of history and pay tribute to those who lost their lives. The town of Deerpark will hold its 9th annual memorial service on September 11th. A monument will be unveiled during that ceremony that will contain the steel beam. Over three thousand people lost their lives during those attacks.
September 2, 2010
The National Park Service is giving people more time to speak out about a proposed power-line. The public comment period for the Susquehanna - Roseland transmission line has been extended one week because of public interest. Comments for the park service's environmental impact statement will now be accepted through September 14th. P-P-L wants to build a power line to connect its Berwick nuclear power plant with northern New Jersey. It would cross the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area near Bushkill.
There are numerous ways for the public to provide comments on the alternatives phase of the planning process, including submitting comments online through a link on the National Park Service Planning, Environment and Public Comment site, http://parkplanning.nps.gov (select Appalachian NST or Delaware Water Gap NRA), or by mailing comments to:
National Park Service
Attention: DEWA PPL EIS Planning Team
Denver Service Center-Planning Division
P.O. Box 25287
Denver, CO 80225-0287
September 2, 2010
Hawley is now the home to three colleges: Lackawanna, Northhampton and Misericordia university, all which started classes this week. More students in town means more traffic on the roads and hopefully an increase in revenue for local businesses. Since this is the first week of school, many store owners haven't seen a huge spike in business yet. But they're hoping come winter when things are normally slow, students will keep them going. Business owners say even if they get one new customer a day, whether it be a student or a professor, they'll consider it a success.
September 2, 2010
For anyone considering installing a solar system, now may be a better time than ever to do so. One Lynn Township family decided to go with solar recently and they're taking advantage of some great refunds. Pennsylvania is offering over $22,000, while there is a 30% federal tax credit right now. "Renewable energy credits" come from the excess energy the solar system produces. A monthly income of $350-$400 a month can be made from those credits. The Greenawalt's system's total price tag is around $100,000. They expect it will be paid off in six and a half years. To help you decide if "getting off the grid" is a good option for your home, check out the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's website at: www.depweb.state.pa.us
September 1, 2010
A trusted bookkeeper is allegedly admitting to stealing thousands of dollars from his Marshalls Creek employer. 50-year-old Raj-Kumar stole over 100-thousand dollars from Pocono MRI over the last year. Nichani worked at the medical center as a bookkeeper and police say after his arrest earlier this month, he confessed to forging 38- company checks with his boss' signature. All of the checks were deposited into Nichani's personal bank account. He waived his right to a preliminary hearing this morning, so the charges will now be heard in county court. Nishani is the second bookkeeper arrested at Pocono MRI within the last two weeks.
September 1, 2010
A Shippensburg man is on his way to Carbon County Court after trying to outrun police on a motorcycle last month. The chase happened August 3rd. Rush Township Police first tried to stop two speeding motorcycles along Route 54. According to court papers, the men fled travelling along Routes 309, 903 and 534 breaking numerous traffic laws. They also came extremely close to hitting other vehicles and other vehicles and causing accidents. One police officer reached 115 miles per hour while trying to keep up with the bikes. Police eventually backed off when they hit heavy traffic in the Cottner's Mountain area. A short time later one of the men chrashed his bike along Route 534. Police arrested him after he refused medical treatment. The man identified as 18-year old Robert Moore Jr. of Shippensburg was arraigned and charged with numerous violations. Moore wavied his right to a preliminary hearing today. All charges will be heard in Carbon County Court. The second man got away.
September 1, 2010
A Jim Thorpe man charged with sexual abuse of children is headed to Carbon County Court. According to police, 36-year old Joseph Oliver, Jr. was arrested after images of child pornography were found on a computer he gave to a friend. Oliver has been charged with six counts of sexual abuse of children - a felony. He was in district court today where he waved his right to a preliminary hearing. All charges will be heard in Carbon County Court.
September 1, 2010
East Stroudsburg officials are asking residents to cut back the amount of water they use. East Stroudsburg Borough declared a drought warning today. The borough’s reservoir in Middle Smithfield Township is currently holding about a 185 million gallons, which is little more than half of its’ total capacity. The drought warning asks residents to voluntarily cut the amount of water they use by ten to 15 percent. Borough Manager Jim Phillips says the warning could increase if our area does not receive needed rainfall.
September 1, 2010
Several area police departments are planning patrols to catch people driving drunk this weekend. State Police at the Swiftwater and Blooming Grove Barracks are conducting D-U-I patrols along with National Park Service Rangers from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Drivers could be stopped at a checkpoint or by a roving patrol. The program is an effort to reduce alcohol related crashes and fatalities on area roads.
September 1, 2010
Police have arrested a Stroudsburg man on drug charges after a search this morning. Stroud Area Regional Police and members of the Monroe County Drug Task Force executed the search warrant at a home on North First Street. 23 grams of crack cocaine were seized. Ray Staples was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. The home was the same residence where police shot and killed two dogs last week that officers considered dangerous.
September 1, 2010
A free health clinic is closing its doors in Stroudsburg. For the last seven years, the Pullen Clinic, has operated inside the Christ Episcopal Church, offering medical care to those with no health insurance. But the doctor who runs the clinic on a volunteer basis, announced this week, that new job responsibilities will be taking him overseas. The clinic has served over 18-hundred patients and several more sessions will be held before it officially closes this November. A similar service may soon be offered in East Stroudsburg.
August 31, 2010
Officials are urging people to be better prepared in case of an emergency. Every moment is precious when emergency responders are dispatched to a scene. The House Watch Form is geared toward the elderly, disabled, handicapped and their families. 911 dispatchers and Emergency Management Officials, pass that information along to responders before they arrive on scene. Knowing if they may need a whole crew to evacuate one person saves time and possible serious injury. You can get the form at the Carbon County Office on Aging and the Emergency Management Agency or call 570-325-3097.
August 31, 2010
A toddler was killed in Wayne County after what police are calling a farm accident. Police report that around five o'clock yesterday afternoon - 20 year old Nicholas Wilcox of Damascus was cutting hay in his field using a closed cab tractor. 23 month old Zevrix Hyde was inside the cab. For an unknown reason the toddler fell out of the right side door of the tractor and was run over by a rear tire. Hyde was pronounced dead at the scene. The death was ruled accidental. The investigation continues.
August 31, 2010
The F-B-I is investigating the murder of an inmate at a federal prison in Wayne County. Officials at the United States Penitary Canaan are just now releasing information about the murder which happened august 23rd. 50-year old Jose Perez was killed in a fight with another inmate. Officials say the incident happened in an isolated area and the prison was placed on lockdown. Officials are not saying how Perez died or who is responsible. He was serving a life sentence on murder-for-hire and drug charges. The F-B-I says they are not commenting on the investigation at this time.
August 31, 2010
Former chief United Nations weapons inspector Scott Ritter was in Monroe County Court today. Ritter is facing sex charges after allegedly chatting and exposing himself on a webcam to an undercover Barrett Township Police officer posing as a 15-year old girl in 2009. Defense attorney Gary Coleman argued because of media sensationalism prior to the start of the trial, the case should be either dismissed or moved to a different location. The defense also requested prior charges from 2001 in New York State to not be allowed in this trial. Those charges were later dismissed. Assistant District Attorney Michael Rakashefski motioned that he did not want two defense experts to be allowed to testify citing relevance-- one is an expert in online chat rooms-- the other an expert in adult fantasy. Ritter's trial is scheduled to start on September 9th. Judge Jennifer Sibum said she hopes to rule on the motions by the end of the week.
August 31, 2010
A Monroe County lawyer is taking responsibility for a car accident that claimed the life of a pedestrian in Stroud Township. Robert Kidwell of East Stroudsburg pled guilty in Monroe County Court yesterday. Police say he was driving the car that hit and killed Daniel Gallagher last January. Gallagher was walking along stokes avenue near north fifth street when Kidwell allegedly ran him over. Kidwell failed sobriety tests and was found to have a blood alcohol level over the legal limit. News 13 has also learned he's worked as an associate attorney at the Newman Williams firm in Stroudsburg since 2007. Kidwell could be sent to prison.
August 31, 2010
Big changes are coming for motorists who use the Delaware Water Gap toll bridge. Construction activities pick up next week for the E-Z pass open road tolling service. The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission is urging motorists to start planning ahead for lane closures and construction activities on the bridge. Tuesday night workers will create an eastbound lane shift and close the two far left westbound toll plaza lanes. These two changes will stay in place until E-Z pass becomes operational in November. Beginning Saturday September 18th and continuing for one week, there will be a "round the clock" closure of the four left toll plaza lanes. Westbound I-80 motorists will encounter big delays during this period, especially during peak driving times.
www.DRJTBC.org/WaterGapExpress
August 31, 2010
The 93rd annual Greene Dreher Sterling Fair is in full throttle. With the sun shining and more vendors that ever before, officials opened the gates to the GDS Fair on a positive note - excited to show off the new upgrades around the fair grounds. The famous mid-week special is in full swing again this year. Through Thursday admission is only five bucks a person which includes parking, entertainment and all the rides you can stomach! The average attendance is roughly 45 thousand over the course of seven days. The GDS Fair runs through Labor Day.
August 30, 2010
Kidder Township police say hundreds, maybe thousands of dollars worth of items were taken from four unlocked cars. The thefts happened this morning, between 5 and 6 o'clock in the Albrightsville area. Some of the items stolen included GPS units, a laptop, cash and a handgun. Officials believe the crimes were those of opportunity. That's a crime in which the perpetrator acts without any pre-planning and could have been easily prevented. Kidder Township Police are urging everyone to make sure to lock their cars and homes. There are no suspects in today's thefts. Anyone with questions about better protecting their property should call their local police.
August 30, 2010
The Monroe County District Attorney's office is continuing their fight to crack down on sexually violent predators that prey on minors. In court today, two men were sentenced to lengthy stints in state prison. 57-year-old Ray Kemmerer was convicted by a jury in May for having sexual contact with a six year old boy. And 28 year old Julio Santiago will spend up to 13 years behind bars for having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl he forced to sell drugs. Authorities say these kinds of criminals should be on the minds of parents as their kids head back to school. But experts say..it’s hard to spot a pedophile because statistics show they are often upstanding citizens or someone the victim trusts.
August 30, 2010
Pocono Mountain Regional Police have arrested six individuals accused of participating in a heroin trafficking ring across Monroe County. On August 11th, police arrested Amber Brannon and Roger Lebrun-Williams during a routine traffic stop that netted 600 bags of heroin. Police believe these two are part of an elaborate ring that supplies Monroe County with more than 10,000 bags of heroin a month from New Jersey and Allentown. Police say this investigation is still ongoing and they expect more arrests in the upcoming weeks...
August 27, 2010
The debate continues over the curfew siren in Palmerton. Mysterious petitions started showing up at homes in the borough back in July. They brought into question the purpose of the siren, which has sounded for decades in the town. Last night, citizens let their voices be heard by Borough Council. Those in support of keeping the siren sounding, say it's an important part of the town's history and culture. Opposition claims the siren exceeds town ordinances and is a nuisance. For now the siren will continue to sound. Councilman Chris Olivia, says a decision on the curfew siren won't be made at this point. The issue will be given to the Public Safety Committee for further discussion.
August 27, 2010
An accident this morning snapped a utility pole and closed route 507 for a time in Pike County. It happened around 7:30 near the boat house restaurant in Palmyra Township. The impact broke the pole and brought down wires completely closing the road. Traffic was detoured around the area. The driver was not injured. Officials say the driver lost control of the vehicle, hit a ditch that sent him flying into the pole. Utility crews spent most of the day replacing the pole and restringing the wires. Route 507 eventually reopened this afternoon.
A similar Story along route 209 in Pike County. A broken utility pole and downed wires also closed a section of the road in Dingman and Delaware Townships. The accident happened around three-am south of the intersection with Raymondskill Road. Traffic was detoured and the road was closed for several hours while crews from Met-Ed replaced that pole. Route 209 eventually re-opened around three-today.
August 27, 2010
A Middle Town New York man will spend time in state prison for stealing a firefighter's truck at a fire scene in Pike County. 42-year old Charles Ibach will serve 15 to 30 months in a state prison for the theft last September. A volunteer firefighter had parked his Toyota Tundra at a fire scene on Winding Brook Drive in Dingman Township. Ibach drove away with the truck and stole several items inside. Besides the jail term he must also serve one year probation and a pay 13-hundred dollars in fines.
August 27, 2010
Two men face charges for a scheme to switch chips and cheat dealers at the mount airy casino resort. Police have charged 27-year old Antonio Bultron and 29-year old Jairo Abreu with theft. Officers say the two men worked together to steal cash by disguising chips at a roulette wheel last night. Police say Bultron bought one dollar chips which he gave to Abreu. Abreu bought 25-dollar chips which look similar. He cashed out all the chips as being worth 25-dollars. The two men were able to steal 48-hundred dollars through the scheme. Both are being held at the Monroe County Prison tonight.
August 27, 2010
Kim resh started a fundraiser that honored her 15 year old daughter Mikayla who was born with a brain injury . Mikayla may not be able to make facial expressions or speak, but her mom has made it her mission to have Mikayala included in all activities including education.Resh started inspiring kids of all abilities to share the message of incluzion with silly bandz.the craze has captured the attention of children all over from the classroom to community events .
Classmates like Hannah Oren have learned to accept people for who they are and she say’s it has now become Mikayla's friends and classmates challenge,to educate others about incluzion . They are speaking out about how important is it to include all children. selling incluzion bandz raises money for educational programs.
Mikayla's voice is a non profit organization . that hopes to capture one classroom at a time ,showing that acceptance and understanding is key. The lady bugs and clover bandz are available in packs of 12 ,in every pack some are a little different.
August 27, 2010
The investigation continues into two dogs killed by police earlier this week. Authorities shot the dogs Tuesday after they allegedly attacked an officer and killed several pets and a deer in East Stroudsburg. Police are blaming the owners and plan to file charges soon but the owners tell News 13 they never let their animals run wild and police shot the wrong dogs.
Mrs. Staples says a Humane Society police officer inspected her property today and found the remaining pets to be in good condition. She also claims the dogs killed were licensed and up to date on their shots. Police say that is not true.
August 26, 2010
Lehigh County recently announced 50 jobs to be eliminated and the closing of their Organics Recycling Program. Today, County Executive Donald Cunningham addressed community and business leaders about additional cuts for the upcoming year. Many other countys in the state will be doing the same. The cuts will bring the county's 2011 budget in $20 million less than last year. Cunningham says, Lehigh County is on solid fiscal ground with plenty of surplus money and a pension fund that is full. He's hopeful jobs will return to the area, if slowly.
August 26, 2010
A Wilkes Barre man is dead after an accident this morning on Interstate 80 in Monroe County. State police say 25-year old Abdul Charles died when his car went off 80 about one mile from the Blakeslee exit. Police say Charles lost control of his car and the vehicle went off the north side of the road. The car hit a tree and folded in half around the tree. Police aren't saying what caused the accident or how fast Charles was traveling. A passing truck driver found the accident and called police.
August 26, 2010
Stroud Area Regional Police are investigation gunshots fired outside an apartment complex early this morning. Police were called to the Bridge Street Apartments in Stroud Township after 3:30 am. Officers say a 20-year old victim and several other people were involved in a fight. Officers say the fight was provoked by an earlier incident at the Thrills night club involving the victim. One person pulled a hand-gun and hit the victim in the face with the gun. A shot was fired that hit one of the apartments and went through several walls. Police are looking for the person who fired that shot after this morning’s incident in Stroud Township.
August 26, 2010
Police have arrested a second person for stealing thousands of dollars from a Monroe County business. Investigators from the Monroe District Attorneys Office say 50-year old Rajkumar Nichani of Easton took more than 120-thousand dollars from his employer – Pocono MRI in East Stroudsburg. According to court papers Nichani used a copy machine to forge 37 checks with the signature of the businesses owner. Nichani faces charges including theft, forgery and tampering with records. A second book keeper Rohen Desai was charged with stealing 100-thousand dollars from Pocono MRI earlier this month.
August 26, 2010
An accident involving a truck carrying sheep snarled traffic on interstate 80 in Delaware Water Gap this morning. The crash happened around six-am about two miles into New Jersey. Traffic was backed up for several miles into Pennsylvania. A pick-up truck was pulling a trailer carrying the sheep. The trailer flipped while the truck was changing lanes and several of the sheep escaped. Traffic was tied up for several hours this morning while crews removed the trailer and rounded up the sheep.
August 26, 2010
Work to replace aging water mains in Milford is kicking into high gear. Contractors want to finish replacing eight thousand feet of pipe in town over the next two months. The project involves removing old undersized four inch pipes and replacing them with eight inch mains. Milford Water Authority Superintendent Tim Gartner says some of the mains in use now are close to one hundred years old. The price tag for the work is about 950-thousand dollars, with some of the money coming from the state and federal government and the rest from Milford's Water Authority.
August 25, 2010
Police say a man who barricaded himself in his home in Stroudsburg yesterday will not face charges. A standoff began after 3 pm at an apartment in the 500 block of Sarah Street. Police had received information from family and friends of the man who was threatening suicide. Police brought in a special response team that entered the apartment about three hours later. The man surrendered peacefully and was taken to Pocono Medical Center for treatment of undisclosed injuries.
August 25, 2010
The brand new Wayne County Emergency Operation Center will be open this weekend for the public to see. The new facility houses both the county's emergency management team and the 9-1-1 call center. Over the last month officials have been slowly moving into their new home located off Route 652 in Berlin Township and now they're ready to show off their one point eight million dollar building. The official ribbon cutting will be held Friday morning at 10. An open house will follow from noon to four. Then the facility will open back up on Saturday from nine a-m until 12:30.
August 25, 2010
Pertussis, more commonly known as Whooping Cough, is increasing in some areas of Pennsylvania. Officials say the disease could show up in Northeastern PA. Symptoms can be more severe than the common cold. Patients experience mild coughing, fever and running nose for the first week. A persistent cough follows. The disease can be fatal to some with severe complications, like pneumonia. A vaccination and good hygiene are the best means of protecting yourself from the disease. Infectious diseases are spread by travel. Cases of Whooping Cough are increasing in Philadelphia. Many tourists from that area come to the Poconos on weekends.
August 25, 2010
After nearly 20-years, PennDot dignitaries and elected officials broke ground on the final phase of the Route 209 Marshall's Creek Bypass. The project will re-route tens of thousands of drivers around the congested village of Marshalls Creek. The idea for the bypass began in 1991 but funding and environmental issues postponed it. The project is scheduled to be completed in two years.
August 25, 2010
After nearly seven days of testimony and three and a half hours of deliberating, a jury has finally reached a verdict in a Wayne County murder trial that dates back to the early 90's. 47 year old Jeffrey Plishka walked out of the Wayne County Courthouse last night a freeman. A jury acquitted him on all charges including first, second and third degree murder. Plishka was charged with raping and murdering 24 year old Laura Ronning back in 1991. Plishka's attorney says this case should have never gone to trial. A happy ending for one family means no closure for another. According to the District Attorney, sadly there may never be a conviction for the murder of 24 year old Laura Ronning. This case is now considered closed.
August 24, 2010
Two dogs police say terrorized an East Stroudsburg neighborhood are dead. Officers shot and killed the dogs this morning near the Brodhead dike in Stroudsburg. Apparently, the Great Dane shepherd mixes lived in the area. Their owner tells News 13, they weren't vicious dogs. The two dogs were euthanized after being shot. Police say the pair killed five cats and a deer over the last week.
August 24, 2010
Many area schools will be back in session this week and buses loaded with children will be on the roads. Police departments will be cracking down on drivers who don't pay attention to school zones and bus stops. Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law, requires motorists traveling in both directions to stop at least ten feet from a bus stopped with lights flashing and stop arm extended. Drivers could face a $250 fine, 5 points on their record and a 60 day license suspension, for not doing so. For more tips go to PennDOT's Highway Safety website at: www.DriveSafePA.org.
August 24, 2010
It's been a soggy start to the 89th annual West End Fair in Gilbert. The unseasonably cool and rainy weather has cut expected attendance in half for the first three days. Fair organizers and vendors hope better weather and bigger crowds are in store for the remainder of the week, but officials say it will be tough to recoup what has already been lost. Forecasters are saying the weather will return to more seasonable conditions by the end of the week...
August 24, 2010
A few homes in downtown Slatington are left without power last night following a car accident. Police say it all happened just before 5:30. A car traveling down Main Street tried to go around another car waiting to turn and struck a light pole. Thankfully no one was injured, but the accident did cause quite a mess and a few homes lost power. Main Street was closed down for a few hours while PP&L worked to restore that power.
August 24, 2010
East Penn Township police need your help tracking down a teen they say broke into over a dozen cars a few weeks ago. Police say on August 2nd over 20 cars on Stone Mountain Road and East and West Lizard were broken into. Cell phones, money and GPS systems were taken. Police believe the theif is between the ages of 15 and 21 years old. If you have any information, you are asked to contact the East Penn Township Police.
August 24, 2010
A Jim Thorpe man is charged with sexual abuse of children. Police say 36-year old Joseph Oliver, Jr. was arrested after images of child pornography were found on a computer he had given to a friend. Oliver has been charged with six counts of sexual abuse of children - a felony. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for September first.
August 24, 2010
An anonymous tip leads to a drug arrest and confiscation of 65 marijuana plants in Lehigh Township, Northampton County. When police arrived at 43-year old Stephen Letsch's home Friday they spotted several suspected marijuana plants growing in front of the Dogwood Road property. After questioning, Letsch admitted to growing the marijuana for personal use. Police took 65 plants from his home and charged Letsch with manufacturing and possessing marijuana.
August 23, 2010
A weekend accident in Pike County has claimed the life of a Wayne County man. State Police say 69-year old John Devito of Honesdale died when he lost control of his car on Interstate 84 in Dingman Township. It happened around 6:30 Saturday night between the Milford and Lords Valley exits. Devito’s car went off the side of the road and hit a rock embankment. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say he was not wearing a seat belt.
August 23, 2010
Its day six in the trial of a man charged with murdering a Wayne County camp counselor back in 1991. 47 year old Jeffrey Plishka faces first degree murder charges for his involvement in the death of 24 year old Laura Ronning almost two decades ago. This morning the defense called forward six former camp counselors who worked with Ronning. They testified to seeing a blue car around the area days before Ronning was murdered. Two other men came forward - saying they were at Tanners Falls the day Ronning was murdered and both saw a blue car in the area. The defense is expected to wrap up their testimony tomorrow afternoon.
August 23, 2010
Our area is seeing its’ first positive test for the West Nile Virus this year. Monroe County Vector Control says mosquitoes trapped in the Stroudsburg area have West Nile. The mosquitoes were found in a wooded area near the Park Avenue exit of Interstate 80. The insects were trapped last week and the test results were released today. Officials are advising residents to take the normal precautions against West Nile Virus -- which include avoiding contact with mosquitoes and eliminating areas of standing water where they can breed.
August 23, 2010
With farmer's markets in full swing, there's no better time than now to take advantage of buying locally produced meats and vegetables. For families on a budget, it may be hard to justify spending the extra dollars for poultry that hasn't been raised in confinement or pesticide-free produce. At many sustainable farms, you won't find animals penned-up indoors. They exist in their most natural state, outdoors, three-hundred sixty five days a year. These animals usually get no medication, steriods or hormones. There's about a two to three dollar a pound difference, between animals raised this way and your typical store bought bird. For more information on Farmer's Markets in our area where you can find pasture-raised and free-range animals, go to www.BuyLocalPA.org.
August 23, 2010
Police in Stroudsburg are on the lookout for two vicious dogs. The dogs are said to be pit-bull/box terriers, one male and one female. Police say they have been on a hunting rampage In the last eight days, at least four cats have been killed, one mauled, and the dogs fatally attacked a deer. They were last seen in East Stroudsburg and pet owners are being warned. The dogs are described as medium build, brown in color, with black markings around the nose and face. Anyone who may see them is asked to call police at 570-421-6800.
August 23, 2010
Route 54 in Schuylkill County is closed this morning after a tractor trailer rolls over. It happened around 7:30 in Rush Township. The rig rolled just before the intersection of Fairview Street. The driver managed to climb out of the wreckage uninjuried. Sources at the scene say, when the truck flipped onto its side it took out a utility pole carrying telephone and cable wires. The truck was carrying coal. Route 54 was closed for several hours between Fairview Street and Golf Club Road.
August 23, 2010
A Schuylkill County man is dead after a dirt bike accident Friday night. Police say 37-year old Timothy Edmonds of Mary D was riding a dirt bike in a wooded area off of Walnut Street. He was coming down a steep embankment when he hit a dirt mound and lost control. Edmonds was thrown from the bike and suffered severe head trauma - he was wearing a helmet. Edmonds was pronounced dead at the scene.
August 20, 2010
A 34-year-old Scranton man will spend the rest of his life behind bars for murder. A judge today sentenced Ralph Maldonado to life in prison without parole for the beating and choking death of 23-year-old Blake Natal. Maldonado apologized to Natal's mother in court but says he is innocent.
The convicted murderer received the maximum sentence because of the random nature of the crime and his extensive criminal history. The judge told him this kind of violence will not be treated lightly in Monroe County.
August 20, 2010
It's day five for the trial of a man charged with raping and murdering a Wayne County camp counselor almost two decades ago. Today the prosecution rested its case but not before giving the jury a first hand look at where the murder occurred. The jury spent their morning at Tanners Falls, where 24 year old Laura Ronnings body was found back in July of 1991. Ronning died of one gun shot wound to the head. 47 year old Jeffrey Plishka stands trial on first, second and third degree murder charges. If convicted he could face the death penalty. The trial will resume Monday morning.
August 20, 2010
Friends of a man killed in a motorcycle accident earlier this month in Monroe county are organizing a benefit to help pay for his funeral. 21-year old Sean Dietz was killed when his motorcycle was hit by an s-u-v in Pocono Pines. Dietz worked at Horizon Motorsports in Mount Pocono where the memorial run is being organized. Cars and motorcycles can take part in Sunday’s run. Registration starts at 9-am. There is a 25 dollar charge per person which will go to a fund to help Dietz’s mother. Donations are also being accepted online at www.seandietz.chipin.com
August 20, 2010
A pit-bull is in quarantine and it' owner is facing charges after an attack in Monroe County. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say three people were injured and one dog was killed during the attack around noon yesterday. It happened on Nadine Drive in the Stillwater Lakes community in Pocono Summit. The pit bull apparently attacked the three people who were protecting their dogs. All three were bitten and suffered injuries to their arms and legs. A Yorkshire Terrier died in the attack. Police say the dog’s owner - 47-year old Patricia Briggs had the dog under control when they arrived. She may face charges as a result of their investigation.
August 20, 2010
Two women face charges for reporting a fake abduction in Monroe County. Police say early yesterday morning they were dispatched to a house in the greenwood acres development near Blakeslee. They were told 18 year old Odalis Tejada was abducted. At noon, Tejada contacted police saying she had been physically and sexually assaulted and robbed but she later admitted to making up the story with help from two friends. Tejada was arrested. 19 year old Christina Adams of Fairless Hills and a 17 year old from effort face charges in the incident.
August 19, 2010
Over the last few years, illegal dumping has increased at one recycling center in Carbon County. Unfortunately, the Kidder Township site may have it's bins removed by the end of 2010. The trash keeps piling up and some area residents have had enough. Barbara Franzosa, of Kidder Township, leases her property to the county. That's where the recycling bins are located. She claims trash may be showing up there from residents in Penn Forest Township. Curbside trash pick-up isn't offered there. Garbage may also be making its way south from Monroe County. Duane Dellecker, the Director of Carbon County's Recycling Program, is urging community leaders and residents to help in combating illegal dumping.
August 19, 2010
Testimony continues in a capital murder trial in Wayne County. Jurors heard from crime scene investigators and a former cell-mate of Jeffery Plishka today. Kyle Freiermuth testified that Plishka asked him if he thought he would get a life sentence for admitting to the murder of Laura Ronning. The two were incarcerated in a cell together last spring. Friermuth also testified that Plishka told him he saw Ronning on the day of the murder, a scuffle ensued and they had sex but she made fun of him and that made him angry... Plishka faces the death penalty for her murder. The trial continues tomorrow in Wayne County Court.
August 19, 2010
An unidentified powder on an envelope caused a scare yesterday afternoon in a Monroe County neighborhood. A woman in the Blue Mountain Lakes development of Stroud Township called police around 2pm after discovering an envelope in the mail with a white powdery substance. Police shut down a block on Witness Hill Circle and a postal inspector was brought in. Initial tests on site determined it was not hazardous. No word on who the letter came from, or what exactly the substance was.
August 19, 2010
Pennsylvania tax officials are hoping to shame taxpayers who are overdue into paying up. The state Department of Revenue broadened an online list of overdue taxpayers to include anyone who faces a lien from the state. The list now has 39-thousand names of businesses and people who owe a total of 233 million dollars in taxes. The highest amount in our area is two point one million dollars owed by a man from Pocono Pines.
You can check out the list online through this link,
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/reports_and_statistics/17303/tax_delinquent_lists/581058
August 18, 2010
Many brand name pharmaceutical companies can delay generic competition with a pay off. Generic drugs help consumers by lowering prices of prescription drugs. Keeping generic drugs off the market causes brand name drugs to be the only option, causing the consumer to pay more.
Generic companies are paid by the brand name companies to hold off its competing product for a certain period of time. Consumers then don’t have the option for generic prescription drugs where they can save up to 85 percent with a generic prescription. Brand name companies can receive a patent on their drug for 17 years. If a generic company tries to produce their drug before the patent is up, and can prove it's not infringing on the patent of the brand name drug then it's allowed on the market. This causes the big pay day from the name brand drug company to keep their product off the market.
Congress is debating what the new law will consist of for drug companies, since this year there has already been 21 settlements between generic and brand name companies.
August 18, 2010
Blood supplies reach low levels during the summertime and giving a pint is always important. But, there are other donation options that are equally important. Miller-Keystone's Trima System allows donors to give their platelets, red cells and plasma separately. Once the donor is seated and their blood flowing, the Trima's main centrifuge goes to work. Different parts of the blood are separated out. A trip to the lab is not needed anymore. The platelets, red cells and plasma are available immediately for patients. The unique thing about it is, whatever blood is not used returns to the donor's body. For more information on how to donate, go to Miller-Keystone's website at: www.GiveAPint.org.
August 18, 2010
A fire that damaged a resort in Wayne County this week has been ruled a case of arson. The fire gutted a laundry and storage room at the cove haven resort in Lakeville Monday morning. Several guest rooms suffered smoke damage. One firefighter suffered a minor injury but no one else was hurt. State police at Honesdale say a Fire Marshall's investigation determined the fire was intentionally set. Officers aren’t releasing any other information about how the blaze started.
August 18, 2010
It's day three for the trial of a Virginia man charged with murdering a camp counselor in Wayne County back in 1991. Today a lot of the scientific evidence was presented. D-N-A experts along with an F-B-I laboratory specialist testified about D-N-A found under the fingernails of the victim. 47 year old Jeffrey Plishka is on trial for the rape and murder of 24 year old Laura Ronning. Ronning's body was found dumped over the side of an embankment with one gunshot wound to the head back in the summer of 1991. Plishka is charged with first, second and third degree murder. If convicted he could face the death penalty. Court officials expect this trial to continue into next week.
August 18, 2010
The battle over an adult nightclub in Reeders wages on in county court. Thrills manager Ira Weiner and Jackson Township officials are still arguing their cases in front of President Judge Ronald Vican and both sides are presenting a series of witnesses and evidence. Weiner likens the case to a constitutional issue. Last month Judge Vican granted the township a temporary injunction against the club because the court believed thrills was operating as an adult cabaret. The township is now seeking a permanent injunction. Weiner says he is already preparing for appellate court.
August 18, 2010
We have a traffic alert for drivers in Monroe County. Road work will close a ramp to interstate 80 for the next six weeks. Penn-dot closed the on ramp to I-80 from Route 611 in Scotrun today. Construction crews are repairing a bridge parapet over the Pocono Creek. Drivers will be able to access 80 from Route 715 at the Tannersville exit. Penn-dot expects the ramp to be closed through the end of September. The work is part of 10-million dollars from the federal stimulus that’s repairing 19 bridges in the area.
August 18, 2010
Residents and community leaders packed into a commissioner's meeting this morning, voicing their opposition to the county backing a multi-million dollar bond to expand Northampton Community College.
A ballot measure on the same issue was turned down last November by voters. So, now the question is, will commissioners move forward without the consent of voters? Residents say backing this bond is too risky in this economy because gaming funds aren't guaranteed and if the casinos fail, taxpayers are on the hook. The two majority commissioners say revenues at Mt. Airy would have to drop 60% for and that's not likely to happen.
August 18, 2010
The Tamaqua Area School district is using mandatory drug testing for the new school year. Now another area schol is looking into similar testing. In July, Tamaqua announced students in seventh through 12th grades intending to participate in extracurricular activities like sports would be required to undergo mandatory drug testing before school starts. Last night, the Palmerton Area School District superintendent said they're now looking into drug testing too. The district will review current policies used in other schools - as well as funding information. The school board has not made any official vote to have drug testing - at this point they're just researching.
August 18, 2010
After surviving floods, rapid growth, and dangerous conditions Wayne County finally has a brand new Emergency Operations Center. For over three years now, the Wayne County Emergency Management and 911 Center has been crammed into the basement of the Dimmick Building. But 2010 marks a landmark year for the Comm Center. The brand new state of the art EOC off route 652 in Berlin Township is officially complete, and personnel are moving in. The one point eight million dollar building was paid for through a grant and left over money from a previous bond issue. The 911 Center will be moving into their new home sometime within the month.
August 17, 2010
The start of the new school year is quickly approaching, marking the first day of school or day-care for many children. The first day of day-care can be stressful not just for the children, but for parents as well. Depending on your family situation, your child may not have any trouble at all getting used to a new environment .But for most parents, enrolling your child into daycare is not only scary for them but for the children as well. Day-care officials suggest bringing something small, like favorite toy along with them so they feel more comfortable. Day-care officials say no matter the age of the child, the average adjustment period is about two weeks.
August 17, 2010
An Albrightsville man is facing charges for a stabbing in Monroe County. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say 19-yeare old Donnovan Channer of Albrightsville stabbed the victim 1:30 Sunday morning along Mountain Road in TunkhannockTownship. Police say the victim and another person were walking along the road when Channer stopped his car and a fight took place. One of the men was stabbed in the chest but his injuries were not life threatening. Channer was arrested at his home later that day. He faces aggravated assault and a list of other charges.
August 17, 2010
A Tobyhanna man faces charges for attempting to lure two young girls into his car. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say 30-year old Winston Johnson stopped the girls last month near a park in A Pocono Country Place. The victims are thirteen and eleven. Johnson asked the two if they wanted to go with him to get a smoothie. Officers say when they arrived and spoke to Johnson he gave them a false name. Johnson was arrested yesterday. He faces a hearing later this week.
August 17, 2010
A series of public hearings are underway this week about a new power line. P-P-L has applied to build the line across the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area along the path of an existing power line near Bushkill. The first hearing started with an open house at the Fernwood Resort this afternoon. Today's hearing looks at alternative routes proposed by the park service. The public hearing portion of tonight's meeting runs from six to nine-pm. A similar hearing will be held tomorrow at the Stroudsmoor Country Inn with an open house from 2:30 to 4 p-m and a public hearing from six to nine p-m.
August 17, 2010
P-P-L has been allowed to access their existing power line in that area to trim trees and plants. P-P-L took the national park service to federal court to get access to the power line. The two sides reached a court approved settlement that will allow the company to remove vegetation along the one point five mile course of the line. The company also will be able to perform routine maintenance in future years, after giving the park service reasonable advance notice.
August 17, 2010
50 positions are cut in Lehigh County for the coming year - making it about 150 positions lost over the past few years. The reductions come as the county continues to wrestle with lost revenues and tight budgets. Not all of the 50 positions are currently filled - as people have been leaving county jobs, they have not been replaced. Those who are affected by the position cuts will be notified in the next few weeks.
August 17, 2010
Three people are charged by Kidder Township Police after a fight in the Holiday Pocono Development in Albrightsville. Police say they were called to the fight Friday night at a Tallwood Drive Residence. 48-year old Brad Sharwell and 32-year old Jamie Lynn Schembri were both arrested and charged with several counts including aggravated assault on a police officer in the performance of his duty. As of this morning Sharwell still remained in Carbon County Prison - Schembri was released Saturday. A third person, 28-year old Alexander Backora was also charged in the incident but he was released.
August 17, 2010
The Route 903 Interchange Project is hitting some roadblocks. The project involves creating a new interchange for the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Penn Forest Township. So far, a new bridge at the site has been completed. Phase two is about to begin, but construction could impact the pristine environment. According to the PA Turnpike Commission, the facility will shorten travel times for commuters, ease traffic and provide access to recreation areas. The interchange will be unstaffed for use by EZ Pass members only. Officials say the project should be finished by 2014, a few months behind schedule.
August 17, 2010
A trial is underway for a man charged with raping and murdering a camp counselor back in July of 1991. 47 year old Jeffrey Plishka was arrested last year and charged with first second and third degree murder along with rape charges for the death of 24 year old Laura Ronning. After over a week of jury selection his trial is now in full swing. Ronnings family says although she was murdered 19 years ago, emotions still run high. The trial is expected to last several days and will resume tomorrow morning. If convicted Plishka could face the death penalty.
August 16, 2010
A crash early this morning on Route 33 has claimed the life of a teen from Tobyhanna. The Monroe County Coroner's office says 18-year old Amanda Wise was killed when a Dodge Neon she was a passenger in lost control and hit a tree. It happened around three-a-m between the Wind Gap and Saylorsburg exits. The car caught fire after the impact. The driver and four other passengers were able to get out. Good samaritans who stopped tried to put out the fire and get wise out of the car but were not able. Police say their preliminary investigation indicates that the driver fell asleep at the wheel. Names of other crash victims are being withheld at this time.
August 16, 2010
A Canadensis couple is facing drug charges after police say they found marijuana plants growing seven feet tall at their home. Barrett Township Police say the plants were seized from the home of Craig and Kathleen Harley on Old Canadensis Hill Road. Officers were called to the home for an unrelated matter and smelled fresh marijuana outside. After a search last Thursday police seized plants, several glass pipes, a scale and other items. Officers estimate the plants would produce eight to ten pounds of marijuana once processed. Police say Craig and Kathleen Harley face charges but they haven't been filed yet.
August 16, 2010
Police have issued warrants for the arrest of two people after a traffic stop turns up drugs. Tasheema Crowder and Jason Myrick, both 25 years of age and both of Binghamton, New York, are wanted after a traffic stop Saturday near the Scotrun exit on Interstate 80. Police say Crowder was driving and refused to allow officers to search his car. The two men were released but the car was impounded. After a search warrant was issued, officers found one-half pound of marijuana in the trunk. Crowder and Myrick are still wanted on drug charges at this time.
August 16, 2010
Residents are being warned to be on the lookout for counterfeit cash. Police in Stroudsburg say $3,000 worth of $100 bills have turned up at several big box stores in our area. In one instance over the weekend, an innocent Wal-Mart customer received a fake bill after cashing a check. The counterfeit bills did pass the commonly known
‘pen’ test. That's why authorities say residents must get-to-know their money. The U-S Secret Service, which investigates counterfeit claims, suggests inspecting the color and paper quality, and serial numbers, while looking for differences not similarities with a genuine bill.
August 16, 2010
A former Palmerton School District employee is sentenced to prison for sexual relations with a minor. Over the course of five years, Gary Snyder molested the teen. The 39-year-old entered a guilty plea on numerous charges back in May. Snyder and the victim had developed a relationship over several years. That led to charges of indecent exposure, corruption of minors and aggravated indecent assault. Today, Judge Richard Webb gave Snyder three to six years in state prison. He will also face two years of state probation and must pay over one-thousand dollars in restitution to the victim's family. Under Megan's Law, He'll need to register with Pennsylvania State Police as a sexually violent predator.
August 16, 2010
Fire strikes one of the most popular honeymoon resorts in the Poconos. Just after 10 o'clock this morning, fire crews from all over Wayne County responded to an alarm at the Cove Haven Resort in Lakeville. The fire was contained to a laundry room and the adjacent guest rooms suffered severe smoke and water damage. Fire officials say they were lucky, with over 240 guests on site and considering the size of the resort, a fire at Cove Haven is one of their worst nightmares. No guests were injured but a firefighter was taken to the hospital with a non-life threatening injury. Fire officials say the cause of the blaze is under investigation.
August 13, 2010
The harvest season is here and fresh produce is everywhere. The choice between buying organic or conventional can be overwhelming, especially when you take a look at the price difference. The Dirty Dozen list is published by the Environmental Working Group. Many of the thin-skinned items are treated with as many as sixty different pesticides. Officials say washing your produce does not eliminate those pesticides. They claim studies show pesticides compounds are linked to ADD in children. The President's Cancer Panel has found links between environmental toxins and cancer. If buying organic produce is too big of an undertaking for your family, go for the ones on the list. See lists below:
Dirty Dozen: (buy these organic)
Celery
Peaches
Strawberries
Apples
Blueberries
Nectarines
Bell Peppers
Spinach
Cherries
Kale
Potatoes
Grapes (Imported)
Clean 15: (lowest in pesticides)
Onions
Avocado
Sweet Corn
Pineapple
Mangos
Sweet Peas
Asparagus
Kiwi
Cabbage
Eggplant
Cantaloupe
Watermelon
Grapefruit
Sweet Potato
Honeydew Melon
August 12, 2010
4-H judging continues at the Carbon County Fair, showcasing the talent of hard work of some young people in our area. Luke Graver of Lehighton, won some ribbons for his sheep yesterday. The streak was continued today, when he won some more for his prized hogs. The honor of Grand and Reserve champion went to Graver. Raising the hearty hogs takes lots of time and effort, even more so when the competition draws near. Six hours a day are dedicated to had feeding the pigs, supplemented by walks four times a day. The dairy cattle and poultry will be judged tomorrow, followed by a livestock auction on Saturday.
August 12, 2010
Police in Stroudsburg are investigating several incidents involving the use of counterfeit 100-dollar bills. Lt. Brian Kimmins with Stroud Area Regional Police says four people were caught on tape using the fake money this month to purchase over three thousand dollars worth of merchandise from two stores. All the counterfeit bills were marked with the year 1999. Kimmins says four men and one woman are considered suspects. They were seen in a blue Jeep Liberty.
August 12, 2010
Police have charged two people in connection with a copper theft in northern Monroe County. Barrett Township Police say 23-year old Patrick Fish of East Stroudsburg and a 17-year old juvenile took the copper from a P-P-L substation in Canadensis. P-P-L estimated the cost to repair and replace the wire was approximately five thousand dollars. Police say more arrests may be coming in connection with that case.
August 12, 2010
Middle Smithfield Township supervisors are all smiles over a one million dollar grant from the state. Officials say the money is actually a partial reimbursement for two-million dollars spent by the township to replace an aging sewage plant in Winona Lakes.
The money is essentially an addition to the township's operating budget. But supervisors would not say how it would be spent.
August 12, 2010
Since a personal well exploded last year in Susquehanna County, people have been trying to learn all they can about natural gas drilling. Last night, the Penn State Cooperative Extension held a forum in Dimock - where several residents say their drinking water is now contaminated due to natural gas drilling. The forum was meant to educate land owners on the proper precautions they should take before drilling begins. Officials say your water should be tested within a year of drilling and its very important to make sure you have a sanitary well cap.
August 11, 2010
Another Monroe County man is facing attempted murder charges for two separate shootings. Police say 20-year-old Kevin Woodley is one of several people involved in the incidents that happened inside two residential developments last year. A family's home in A Pocono Country Place was shot up during a drive-by in March of 2009. Woodley has been incarcerated on drug charges since April. But Pocono Mountain Regional Police detectives say they intercepted phone calls he made from the Monroe County Jail. And, on those phone calls he allegedly admits to being a shooter.
Woodley is also charged with shooting five teenagers at a house party in Emerald Lakes Estates last Halloween. Another man, Dheklan John is also in custody for that shooting. Both are facing attempted homicide charges.
August 11, 2010
A man accused of running over and killing a crashed motorcyclist is now facing homicide by vehicle charges. Police say 30-year-old Benjamin Warner was intoxicated when he ran over and killled Nathan King back on July 29th in Middle Smithfield Township. Police say Warner also struck Robert Scotko who had stopped to help the injured cyclist. Scotko was left with a badly broken leg. Warner is now charged with homicide by vehicle and involuntary manslaughter charges. Bail has also been increased to $200,000. A preliminary hearing has been rescheduled to September 1st...
August 11, 2010
As the National Park Service continues its Environmental Impact Study on a proposed power line project, they are now distracted by another hurdle. PPL has filed a federal lawsuit to gain access to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in order to trim vegetation they say threatens the existing power line. The NPS did approve a right to do clearing under certain restrictions but PPL rejected their offer. A federal judge will now have to make a ruling on whether PPL can gain access to cut down vegetation around the existing power lines.
August 11, 2010
Police are searching for a man they say was impersonating a police officer at a community in western Monroe County. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the suspect stopped a woman in the Indian Mountain Lakes community Saturday. It happened at the intersection of Elmwood Drive and Evergreen Road. The suspect was wearing clothing that looked similar to an officer's uniform but he wasn't a police or security officer. The victim says the suspect was a white male standing about six feet tall with a medium build. He was driving a silver jeep with blue strobe lights in the grill. If you can help locate him you are asked to contact Pocono Mountain Regional Police.
August 11, 2010
We are learning more about a woman who died after going on a ride last weekend at the Wayne County Fair. The unidentified 18 or 19-year old woman became sick Saturday night after going on the mega drop ride. She was treated at the fair's medical office and then transported to a hospital outside Wayne County. The Wayne County Coroner’s office says because the woman died outside the county they have no information about her case. The woman is believed to have had a medical condition that contributed to her death. Officials at the Wayne County Fair say they cannot confirm that because of medical privacy laws.
August 11, 2010
Two people face charges after police say they found 600-bags of heroin in their car this morning in Monroe County. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the drugs were found in a car stopped on Sullivan Trail in Tobyhanna Township around 2-am. 27-year old Roger Lebrum-Williams was driving and 23-year old Amber Brannon was a passenger. A police dog alerted officers to 12 bricks of heroin in the trunk. Two thousand dollars cash was also found in the car. Lebrum-Williams and Brannon were arraigned on drug charges today.
August 11, 2010
It's been two years since officials and The Palmerton Citizens for a Clean Environment had a public meeting. Officials from the DEP and EPA gave some results of a water safety study and upcoming re-vegetation efforts. This year, the Appalachian Trail will be re-seeded with aerial and ground application. A study shows the shallow water under the East End cinder pile is contaminated. The deep aquifer which the town gets it's water, is not. Development of the West Plant will continue as scheduled. The industrial park that will be developed, could bring a thousand jobs to the area.
August 10, 2010
Raising a glass of wine with your friends and family is always fun, but why not do it for a special cause. The Great Pennsylvania Wine Toast will take place this Saturday. Wine drinkers from around the state will try to break a Guiness World Record. Over 17, 500 glasses will need to be raised to break the record for the world's largest wine tasting. All nine Lehigh Valley Wine Trail members will be participating. Racing legend Mario Andretti will act as toastmaster. Autographed items by Andretti will be auctioned off at participating wineries. Proceeds will go toward the "Fund to Benefit Children and Youth." For information and directions, go to www.LehighValleyWineTrail.com.
August 10, 2010
A Mahoning Township grandmother was saved from a phone scam that could have cost her. The 81 year old victim tells police the scammers made a frantic call posing as her granddaughter, asking for money because she was in trouble in a foreign country. Employees of the bank inside the Mahoning Township Giant store and the Rite Aid on First Street in Lehighton saw the red flag and refused to send payments to an overseas address. Police are warning anyone who receives a suspicious phone call to hang up and immediately call your local police department.
August 10, 2010
Police say the man killed in a motorcycle accident sundae in Pocono Pines is 21-year old Sean Dietz of Scotrun. He died when his cycle was hit by a ford explorer just before 5-pm on route 940. The s-u-v was trying to turn into a parking lot. Dietz was flown to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers say the other driver was taken for a blood test. She could face charges as a result of their investigation.
August 10, 2010
Jury selection for a murder trial underway in Wayne County could last several more days. Five jurors have been selected so far to hear the case of 46-year old Jeffery Plishka. Plishka is facing the death penalty for the murder of Laura Ronning back in 1991. Ronning was found dead of a gunshot wound near tanners falls. Plishka was charged last year with sexually assaulting and killing Ronning 18-years after the crime. Twelve jurors and four alternates must be selected to hear the case. Jury summons have been sent out to more than seven-hundred Wayne County residents.
August 10, 2010
Police in Monroe County have charged a Canadensis man with stealing cash from a deli last week. The theft happened sometime last Thursday afternoon at the Mountainhome Deli on Route 390. Police say someone entered the deli less than an hour after closing for the day and removed cash from the register. Officers say 45 year old Darryl Fahy of Canadensis was stopped soon after the burglary. He was a short distance away riding a bicycle. Officers say Fahy had over 700 dollars in cash and the cash register keys in his pockets. He’s being held in the Monroe County Jail and faces a hearing later this week.
August 10, 2010
A bridge that's been closed for two years has reopened to traffic in Monroe County. The Greenview Drive Bridge closed in may of 2008 due to structural damage. The one lane bridge dating back to 1920 was completely demolished and PennDOT announced this week the project cost more than 900 thousand dollars but traffic can now use a new one lane bridge. The concrete structure is complete with improved roadway approaches and better drainage.
August 10, 2010
Needy kids in Monroe County are getting a back-to-school boost from a local charity and retailer. The Salvation Army and Target teamed up today to send 30 students on a shopping spree for school supplies. The students and their parents were also allowed to shop for uniforms with a complimentary $80 gift card. It's the first year the local charity organization has participated. The program is sponsored annually by Target. This year more than 12,000 students will participate nationwide.
August 10, 2010
Tens of thousands of people are flocking to Dyberry Township this week for the 148th annual Wayne County Fair. Officials say the success of the fair solely depends on the weather and so far mother nature has been on their side. But lately the humidity and the mercury has been rising and the First Aid Center has seen its "fair" share of heat related problems. The fair runs through August 14th. Officials expect over ninety thousand visitors to walk through the gates.
August 9, 2010
Early puberty in girls is a major health concern. Studies have shown women who are exposed to more estrogen earlier in life can face serious health risks. Recent studies show at age 8 about 18 percent of white girls and 43 percent of black girls have entered puberty. This percentage has grown dramatically since the last study done in 1997, where only 11 percent of white girls entered puberty early. Thirty three percent of children in America are obese and doctors say obesity is a key factor in early puberty. Researchers say young girls who begin puberty at an early age could develop behavioral problems, suffer from depression and could even become sexually active earlier.
August 9, 2010
It's August and that means it's time to roll out the funnel cakes and amusement rides! The Carbon County has delighted families for the past eleven years. Officials are hoping fair-goers come out in full force. The festivities begin on Wednesday. Expect to see your favorites like the demolition derby, tractor pulls and big name entertainment. One new addition will be pro-wrestling on Wednesday evening. While officials hope for a great turn out, but there's a trend showing the economy is affecting fair attendance around the state this summer. The fair runs this Wednesday the 11th until Sunday the 15th. For more information, go to www.CarbonCountyFair.com
August 9, 2010
A brush fire just over the Delaware River in New Jersey has blackened about 200-acres of land and closed part of the Appalachian Trail. The fire broke out on Friday in a section of the Worthington State Forest. You could see the smoke from areas along river road near Shawnee in Monroe County. A mile and a half long section of the Appalachian trial remains closed to hikers along with two other smaller trails in that area. It's not known how the fire started yet but area forestry officials are advising people to be very cautious with fires because of the dry conditions.
August 9, 2010
Night road work could impact traffic tonight on part of Interstate 80 in Monroe County. The night restrictions start along sections of I-80 in Jackson and Pocono Township. The four million dollar project includes roadway patching, milling, paving, updating guardrails and line painting. Traffic will be affected between 6pm and 6am. As soon as the project is complete on the east side of the roadway - crews will move to the west side. Construction is expected to be finished in October.
A second road project will begin tomorrow in Monroe County to improve Route 33 and 209 in Hamilton Township. The project includes concrete patching, shoulder upgrades, resurfacing and drainage upgrades. The work will be concentrated between the Lehighton exit and the 33 - 209 split. Starting Tuesday motorists need to be aware of night time lane restrictions on 33 north between 8pm and 6am. The total cost of the project is five point eight million dollars and should wrap up by December.
August 9, 2010
A Chestnuthill Township woman is using her backyard garden to feed dozens of needy families. Tammy Graeber says she turned her two and a half acre property in McMichaels into an organic garden after discovering a shortage of fresh produce in local food banks. She grows everything from tomatoes to watermelon. This week alone, her five thousand plant garden will feed 60 families. Five food banks will benefit from Graeber's hand-picked harvest this year. If you'd like to volunteer, or make a donation, call 570-402-1282.
August 9, 2010
The Carbon County Police Chiefs Association is giving you a chance to get a behind the scenes look at life in the police force. They are hosting their first ever adult citizens police academy. Police departments through out Carbon County began accepting applications for the program in July. 12 applications have been received meaning there are still 18 slots open for the free class. The program is being filled on a first come first serve basis. Applications for the citizens police academy are still available at the Kidder Township, Jim Thorpe, Mahoning Township and Lansford Police Stations. You must be 18 or older to sign up. The free class begins in September.
August 9, 2010
SPCA officials find nothing wrong with Towamensing Township animals after neighbors complain of animal neglect by the owners. Neighbors of Gus Cerino told News 13 last week that horses and other animals on his property aren't being fed or watered. Township officials confirmed Cerino's house has been foreclosed on - they say he was supposed to be out of the property today but was given another week. However, neighbors say Cerino already left the property and only on occasion do people come and go to take care of the animals so they called the SPCA. We spoke to an SPCA official today who tells us an officer has been to the property on several occasions and has found no violations.
August 9, 2010
Within a year Pike County could have a new library headquarters. Due to a half a million dollar shortfall to build a brand new facility in Milford, the Pike County Library Board voted five to four to move forward on a contract with the Biondo Foundation. The library is not bound to the contract - it does give them the opportunity to hire inspectors and engineers to determine all the numbers before closing. The board says renovations will take about six months and they hope in about a year the library will be all moved into its new home. The total cost of the project has not yet been released.
August 6, 2010
A controversial power line would double the height of existing towers throughout the Poconos---but not so fast says the National Park Service. The NPS will have the final say if the nearly 200 feet tall towers can be built on federal land. The park service has come up with alternative routes-One would run along I-80, the other in Carbon and Southern Monroe County. PPL officials say both alternatives are bad ideas. The Park Service has set up two meetings about the alternative routes open to the public-the first on August 17th at Fernwood Resort and the second on August 18th at the Stroudsmoore Country Inn...
August 6, 2010
Police in Monroe County are looking for a person who swiped cash from a deli yesterday afternoon. Barrett Township Police say someone took the cash from the Mountainhome Deli around 4-pm yesterday afternoon. The owner returned just before closing to find the money was missing and notified police. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact the Barrett Township Police Department.
August 6, 2010
Jury selection is expected to begin Monday for the trial of a man charged with the murder of a camp counselor 20-years ago in Wayne county. 46-year old Jeffery Plishka faces the death penalty for the murder of Laura Ronning. She was found dead of a gunshot wound near tanners falls in July of 1991. Ronning was working as a camp counselor in Dyberry Township. Plishka was charged last year with sexually assaulting and killing Ronning 18-years after the crime. His trial was delayed last spring because a witness was not available. Testimony in the case is expected to start after a jury has been selected.
August 6, 2010
It's opening day at the 148th annual Wayne County Fair and officials are hoping for a great turnout. Up to 90-thousand visitors could walk through the gates over the course of the next week at the fairgrounds in Dyberry Township. Vendors say the rides - games and other attractions are ready for the crowds. Fairgoer Rhiannon Bogart Mandrake says the fair a better alternative to amusement parks which are several hours ride away. Agriculture is a big part of the Wayne County Fair. Judges spent their morning looking over the entries for the 4-h dairy showmanship competition. News 13 was there when Jackie Chyle took the title of champion. The Wayne County Fair runs through next Saturday august 14th. The midway opens daily at noon.
August 6, 2010
The campaign for governor brought Republican Candidate Tom Corbett to Pike County today. Corbett toured the construction site of Pike County’s new Emergency Services Training Complex in Blooming Grove Township. Engineers say construction of the training complex is on schedule. Crews began drilling wells for a geothermal heating system this morning. The Pike County Commissioners say they're inviting all candidates to see the site because they may be asked to help pay for projects like the center with state or federal aid.
August 6, 2010
Nine days of music gets underway tonight in Monroe County. Organizers are getting ready for the first Buck Hill Sky Top Music Festival. The first event is a gala kick off tonight at Skytop Lodge. We caught up with some high school students who were rehearsing to be part of a production of “Porgy and Bess” Saturday night at Pocono Mountain East High School.
Festival Manager Phil Chan says the festival also offers a behind-the-scenes series of master classes, open rehearsals, lecture demonstrations, jam sessions, and twilight music concerts in each of the disciplines – opera singing, chamber music, and jazz– as well as the chance to meet the resident professional guest artists. The festival kicks off tonight and will run for the next nine days at locations across northern Monroe County. Some performances are free and some require tickets. You can find out more about it on the web at www.buckhillskytopfest.org
August 6, 2010
Local police are stepping up enforcement around a deadly intersection following three fatal crashes last month along the route 209-33 corridor. So over the last two weeks the already stretched Stroud Area Regional Police force has devoted more manpower to enforcing and studying the area. They are focusing on the intersection of four lane 209 and Shafer School House Road and 85 tickets have been handed out so far. State law prohibits local police from using radar, so SARP must pull two officers to calculate speed and pull over drivers. Lt. Brian Kimmins compiled the data and many of the drivers cited were from areas where these crashes happened. He says that’s disappointing because those drivers should already know how dangerous that stretch of road is.
August 6, 2010
Pennsylvania state police are on the lookout tonight for a white male, who robbed the Susquehanna bank branch on route 61 in West Brunswick Township. State police say it happened just before 10 am this morning when the man walked into the Susquehanna bank and handed the teller a note demanding all the money from the teller and then fled in what police say is a dark colored vehicle possibly a Mazda Rx 7.
The robber was last seen wearing a dark colored baseball cap, long sleeve flannel shirt and tan cargo shorts. Investigators say they are looking for a white male approximately 6'2, medium build with facial hair. He is said to be in his mid 20's to mid 30's. Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call State Police at Schuylkill Haven at 570-593-2000.
August 5, 2010
Today, The Carbon County Commissioners welcome the new warden for their correctional facility. The prison's previous warden retired back in March. Joseph Gross of Nazareth, takes the reigns in September. He says he's ready for the challenge of running the prison. Gross has over thirty years of law enforcement and military experience. Keeping the facility running efficiently on it's $4.2 million budget, is job number one. He also hopes to keep the community and residents of the facility as safe as possible.
August 5, 2010
A Wayne County man has been arrested for having improper online communications with people he thought were children. The Attorney General's Child Predator Unit says 23-year old Jason Beers of Starlight communicated online with three undercover agents who he thought were 13 and 14 year old girls. The agents say beers sent explicit photos and videos to them and discussed meeting for sex. Beers was arrested by Honesdale state police this week. He’s being held under 50-thousand dollars bail.
August 5, 2010
A Mount Pocono man has been charged with stealing almost 100-thousand dollars from his employer. Investigators from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office say 27-year old Rohen Desai wrote checks to himself from employer - Pocono M-R-I Imaging and Diagnostic Center where he worked as a bookkeeper. According to court papers a bank contacted the company after noticing some irregularities in their checking accounts. Investigators say Desai took 13 checks just this month totaling 21-thousand dollars. And a total of more than 90-thousand dollars is thought to have been stolen. Desai is being held under 100-thousand dollars bail.
August 5, 2010
The man accused of supplying two Monroe County grandmothers with heroin will not be going to trial. Last year authorities charged Julio Checo with supplying the elderly women with cocaine to sell. He was supposed to stand trial on those charges today but the case has been declared a mistrial. Sources at the Monroe County Courthouse say the charges were thrown out yesterday because prosecuting attorneys failed to present certain evidence to the court. The district attorney's office has not confirmed that with News 13. It’s not clear if there will be a new trial.
August 5, 2010
Police are investigating the discovery of a video recording device in a lifeguard bathroom at the camel beach water park. The video camera was discovered Tuesday inside an employee bathroom. Park officials turned over the camera to Pocono Township Police who are handling the investigation. Park spokesman Jerry Lawlor tells News 13 quote--this is an employee issue, the public was never threatened and camel beach is actively helping out the investigation with the Pocono Township Police.
August 5, 2010
Officials at Stroudsburg Area School District are calling it one less thing for students and parents to worry about. We're referring to the district's two year-old standardized dress code that for the first time will extend to the district's youngest students. Kids in kindergarten through fourth grade will now be required to wear the basic color khaki's and polo shirts. And for parents, cost appears to be a concern. At Crompton’s School Apparel on Route 209, one child can be outfitted for under 100-dollars. The district is also donating uniforms to families that can’t afford to buy them.
August 5, 2010
A Coaldale girl remains hospitalized when she's thrown 35 feet from her bike last night after being hit by a truck. Police say the 6-year old was riding her bike along Old Route 209 in the Village of Newkirk around 4:45 last night. 30-year old Daniel Farber of Tamaqua was heading east on the roadway when the little girl rode her bike out in front of the pick up truck. Fraber tried to stop but hit the girl throwing her from her bike 35 feet. The 6-year old was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital and was admitted in critical condition. Police continue to investigate but will not release the child's name because she is a juvenile.
August 5, 2010
A Lehighton teen is flown to the hospital after the car he was riding in smashed into a utility pole last night. Police say 18-year old Shane Jefferson was a passenger in 21-year old Jeffrey Kreitz's car when it crashed along Route 145 in Lehigh Township, Northampton County. Kreitz lost control as he was rounding a curve near the Treichler's Bridge. The car spun around and then smashed into a utility pole. Jefferson was flown to the hopsital, and another passenger 21-year old Jacob Wertman of Ashfield was taken by ambulance to an area hospital. Sources at the scene say the driver was also taken by ambulance to a Lehigh Valley hospital.
August 4, 2010
It's a new era for the Philadelphia Eagles, and fans are ready for a big kick off this season. The birds are back in Bethlehem for training camp, and even with so many new faces on the field it didn't stop fans from coming out to support the team, and take a look at the new rookies. Practice wasn't just rehearsal for the players; the fans are getting ready for the first pre season game on August 13th.
August 4, 2010
Towamensing Township residents accuse their neighbor, once again, of animal neglect. A judge took some horses and a pony out of Cerino's care in July 2009. The animals have been back at his property since May. A judge dismissed the 28 animal cruelty charges Cerino and Shawna Andrews originally faced. Even so, neighbors believe he hasn't changed the way he treats his horses. According to neighbors, there are dogs, chickens, ducks, a pig and a goat on the property that aren't being watered or fed. Gus Cerino failed to return phone calls made by News 13 this morning. A representative form the SPCA was supposed to be inspecting the property and animals this afternoon. There's no word on whether that happened.
August 4, 2010
Police are looking for a man who broke into an automatic teller machine at a Monroe County gas station. Police say an unknown white man was able to access the machine at the Sunoco station off old Route 115 in Saylorsburg around 7-pm Monday night. The man removed 48 twenty dollar bills. He got away with the 960-dollars and fled the scene on foot. State Police at Lehighton are investigating the theft.
August 4, 2010
Stroud Area Regional Police have arrested a man they say held up two companions with a knife. The three people who are all homeless visited the Tobyhanna Federal Credit Union in Stroud Township and withdrew money yesterday morning. In the parking lot the two victims say 68 year old Edwin Owen pulled out a pocket knife and took their cash and car. Owen was stopped in East Stroudsburg yesterday afternoon. He was taken into custody. Most of the stolen money was recovered.
August 4, 2010
Pocono Mountain Regional Police say they made 34 arrests during last week’s Pocono Mountain Carnival. Officers say they used a proactive patrol strategy to deter and detect criminal activity during the carnival. Of the 34 people arrested - 16 involved marijuana possession and 11 involved underage drinking. Their ages ranged from 15 to 21. Police deployed combinations of teams of undercover and uniformed officers to foot patrol, mountain bike patrol, k-9 patrol and undercover narcotics patrol. Most of the arrests were made outside the carnival grounds, preventing suspects from enter the carnival.
August 4, 2010
Three people are recovering from injuries after an accident last night at a summer camp in Wayne County. Several ambulance companies were called to Camp Cayuga in Dyberry Township north of Honesdale around nine-pm. According to police scanner reports several people were thrown off horses. Three people were flown to hospitals by helicopter after the accident. The camp is not releasing any information about the accident at this time. According to its’ website Camp Cayuga is a residential summer camp for boys & girls from ages five to fifteen.
August 4, 2010
A driver is facing charges after hitting a PennDOT flagman near Mount Pocono this morning. The flagman was directing traffic at a work zone near the k and l gates of A Pocono Country Place on Route 196. Police say 80-year old Donald Collier of Canadensis hit the worker with his car, throwing him over the hood of the vehicle. Collier was stopped at the other end of the construction zone. Colliers wife told police she thinks her husband panicked due to a medical condition and kept going. The flagman was treated for a possible broken wrist. Collier faces careless driving and other charges as a result of the crash.
August 4, 2010
The votes are in and East Stroudsburg Borough Council has decided to save the Dansbury Depot from the wrecking ball. Council members unanimously voted last night to support moving the depot to borough property. This means the historic structure will remain standing in the community. Council President Roger Delarko says it's a tremendous benefit for the community to be able to keep this historic train station and the grass roots organizers should be very proud of their accomplishment.
August 4, 2010
Police want to know who is dumping nails at a Mahoning Township construction site. Hazleton Site Contractors tell police someone is dumping the nails at the new WalMart construction site along Route 443 in Mahoning Township. The site contractor says for the past two or three weeks, about every other day, someone is dumping heavy duty roofing nails at the entrance of the construction site. As a result at least 10 vehicles have gotten flate tires. Police say they'll be stepping up checks at the site.
August 4, 2010
A group of college men are charged for starting a brush fire on the Blue Mountain in March while on Spring Break. The March 19th fire in Lehigh Township burned 34 acres and cost over $19,000 to fight. According to court papers, one man in a group of five made a torch of grass, stick and twine. As they were hiking pieces of it fell off and started small fires. The men tried to put out the flames but a larger fire started and they couldn't stop it. The group ran back to their campsite and left the mountain without calling 911. The men did speak with emergency personnel that day but didn't admit to starting the fires. After an investigation, four men have been chaged with several counts - one with felony arson and three others with misdemeanor arson. Charges against a fifth man are pending.
August 4, 2010
A Mahoning Township woman escapes serious injury after crashing her car this morning in the township. Police say 26-year old Lisa Klotz was driving along Mahoning Drive East when she swerved to avoid an animal in the roadway. She overcompensated to avoid the animal and an oncoming car and crashed head on into a tree. She was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries.
August 4, 2010
A Lehighton pilot escapes injury after a crash landing at the Carbon County Airport last night. Police say 54-year old Keith Anderson took his bi-engine airplane for a routine service flight last night. But when he went to land his front nose gear failed to activate. After several tries and no luck the pilot and his ground crew decided to land anyway. Anderson touched ground around 6:15 last night. He was not injured and there was only minimal damage to the aircraft. The FAA was on scene investigating and will be turning their findings over to the National Transportation Safety Board.
August 4, 2010
There are major plans in store for one of the most congested corridors in Pike County. As Pike County continues to grow, PennDOT has decided its time to alleviate some of the congestion on the three lane in Westfall Township. Plans include opening up entrances to the main businesses, re-timing lights and installing left hand turn arrows and adding a second lane in each direction. The main concentration of the project starts just east of the Delaware Valley High School entrance and ends at the Price Chopper signal. Crews hope to start work in the spring of 2012.
August 3, 2010
Small nonprofits across the nation are days away from losing their tax-exempt status because they haven't filed a new form with the Internal Revenue Service.
This form was put in place in 2007, but now the IRS is offering a onetime special filing relief program for small charities. If any organization failed to file required returns for 2007 through 2009, then they are at risk. The deadline to file is October 15, 2010.
August 3, 2010
Governor Ed Rendell pleaded for a solution to the transportation crisis in Pennsylvania. He stopped in Allentown today to urge state lawmakers to get back in session and make a decision. The federal government denied an application for tolling motorists on Interstate 80 back in April. The state lost out on $470 million for construction projects. Rendell suggested imposing a profit tax on oil companies to generate over $800 million. An additional $100 million could be attained from tracking uninsured drivers, using traffic cameras.
August 3, 2010
An East Stroudsburg man is dead after crashing his truck last night in Middle Smithfield township. The wreck happened along Lower Lakeview Drive around eleven thirty when 68-year old William Powell senior lost control and struck a tree. The 2003 Ford Ranger pickup truck then caught fire. Powell was pulled from the wreckage by several individuals before crews arrived at the scene. Police say powell was not wearing his seatbelt. State Police in Swiftwater are asking those who assisted in last night's crash to please contact them at 570-839-7701.
August 3, 2010
Pocono Mountain Regional Police have arrested a sex offender who they say didn’t register the address of his workplace in pocono summit. Officers say 43-year old James Votta of East Stroudsburg was working as a cashier at an Italian restaurant on Route 940 in Pocono Summit since mid June. Sex offenders are required to register the address of their work within two days of getting a job. Votta was taken into custody at the restaurant yesterday afternoon. He’s being held on 100-thousand dollars bail tonight.
August 3, 2010
A natural gas drilling company has decided to sell all of its leases and leave Wayne County. Cabot Oil was expecting the final bids for its nine-thousand acres of leased land today. The company has been unable to drill on the land because Wayne County is under a temporary ban from drilling while the Delaware River Basin Commission debates new regulations for gas drilling. The regulations are not expected to be finalized before the end of the year. These are pictures of some of the lease documents that were filed by Cabot and other companies last year. There's no word yet when the deal to sell those leases could be finalized.
August 3, 2010
Demolition continues at the historic train station in East Stroudsburg but a new plan has come along to save most of the Dansbury Depot from the wrecking ball. Borough officials and developer Troy Nauman have been discussing ways to save the main portion of the building. Plans call for the building to be moved across the railroad tracks and put in control of the East Burg Community Alliance. Officials say public funding would become available and a private benefactor has expressed interest in restoring hte structure. A vote is scheduled at tonight's East Stroudsburg Borough Counil meeting to ultimately decide the fate of the Dansbury Depot...
August 3, 2010
Finding a parking place in Milford has come down to the survival of the fittest. With around 100 parking places on Broad Street - the main drag in downtown Milford - you can imagine on a busy weekend how hard it is to score a spot. Although signs read, "two hour parking", store owners say those rules are not being followed or enforced and its affecting their business. The Miilford Business Council and Borough officials are going to work together to come up with a solution. Parking meters are a possibility along with better utilization of a parking lot that the borough recently purchased across the street from the Columns Museum.
August 3, 2010
Two men lead area police on a high speed chase this morning from Schuylkill to Carbon Counties. Rush Township Police first tried to stop the two speeding motorcycles around 6:30 this morning along Route 54. According to court papers, the men fled travelling along Routes 209, 903 and 534 - breaking numerous traffic laws. They also came extremely close to hitting other vehicles and causing accidents. One police officer reached 115 miles per hour while trying to keep up with the bikes. Police eventually backed off when they hit heavy traffic in the Cottner's Mountain Area. A short time later one of the men crashed his bike along Route 534. Police arrested him after he refused medical treatment. The man identified as 18-year old Robert Moore, Jr. of Shippensburg was arraigned and charged with numerous violations. The second man did not stop when Moore crashed. No word whether police have arrested him.
August 2, 2010
Summer is prime time for the small town with a big namesake. Every year people flock to Jim Thorpe to enjoy all the town has to offer, from biking to shopping to of course, eating. Molly Maquire's owner, Noel Behen, says business is unbelievable and the economy isn't affecting sales. Some biking and rafting outfitters haven't had the season they hoped for. Unpredictable weather may have sacred off some business this summer. Business owners are looking forward to better weather in the fall.
August 2, 2010
A weekend fire destroys a home in Monroe County. The flames broke out at a home on Clayton Avenue in Saylorsburg early Sunday morning. The owner tells News 13 he woke up to a cracking noise around three-am. He found flames in the attic. Firefighters tried to save the home but it is a total loss. The owner thinks the fire may have started due to an electrical problem. He is staying with neighbors tonight.
August 2, 2010
Officials in Monroe County say they have the bed bug situation at the West Gate Apartments under control. Several residents of the Stroudsburg apartment complex have contacted News 13 about the infiltration of bed bugs. Monroe County Housing Authority Executive Director Richard Widdos says the tiny parasites were found in just two apartments. He says cleaning crews are treating those rooms and several others at the complex and as of now it does not appear to be a major issue.
August 2, 2010
Police in Monroe County want to know who fired a shot that hit a man in a car in western Monroe County. State police say a 22-year old man from Lackawanna County was hit by a bullet early Saturday morning along Polk Township Road. The victim tells police the shot came from a passing vehicle. His injuries were not life threatening. Anyone with information regarding that shooting is asked to call State Police at Lehighton.
August 2, 2010
A Wayne County man accused of statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors will spend the next five to 25-years in prison. Authorities say Todd Rowles of Pleasant Mount raped an eight-year old female and had indecent sexual contact with a 14-year old victim. He pled guilty to those charges back in April. One of the victims stated in court that she had a sexual relationship with Rowles. He is also awaiting sentencing in a separate case on charges of indecent assault.
July 30, 2010
There has been some trimming of the multi-million dollar Christmas tree industry. Today, The Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers are discussing the state money traditionally set aside for the industry. A couple years ago, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture started some projects to address disease issues and pest concerns. Officials say Carbon County is one of the biggest tree producing counties in the state and will continue to be in the future.
July 30, 2010
Get ready to start dialing 272 as a local area code once the current 570 area code runs out in the next year. The state announced today that 272 will be the new overlay area code for 570. An overlay means once the existing telephone numbers in the 570 area code are exhausted, new telephone services in the geographic region will be assigned telephone numbers with the new area code 272. At that time, ten-digit local dialing will also go into effect because two area codes reside in the same area. The state expects to run out 570 numbers in 2011.
July 30, 2010
The town of Milford is gearing up for what many say is the busiest weekend of the year. Thousands of people are expected to hit the streets to shop, eat and enjoy live entertainment for the annual Milford Music Festival. This year, instead of having one main center stage at Ann Street park, over 20 venues around town including restaurants, shops and even churches will have their own live music. Business owners believe this approach will work to their advantage. The music festival runs through Sunday evening and with good weather in the forecast Milford is expected to be rocking!
July 29, 2010
A jury has decided the fate of an Iraq war veteran accused of murder. Just moments ago a jury found 24-year old Jerel Johnson not guilty on all counts. Closing arguments in his trial were presented in the Monroe County courtroom earlier today. Johnson was accused of shooting to death Mingo Lee at a barbeque back in April of 2009. According to testimony lee was hit by 13 bullets. Johnson's attorney says he fired out of self defense after the two were involved in a physical altercation. Defense experts testified they believe Johnson also suffers from post traumatic stress disorder following his tour in Iraq.
July 29, 2010
A large reward is being offered for information about a burglary in Wayne County. State police in Honesdale say a burglar entered the home of Edward and Marion Schweighofer on Owl Wood Road in Damascus Township. The burglars got in through an unlocked door sometime between last Friday and Monday. Jewelry and some cash were taken. The family is offering a fifteen thousand dollar reward for information that leads to an arrest in the case.
Police are also investigating a burglary at a Honesdale motel. Honesdale Borough Police say someone broke into the office at the Delaware and Hudson Motel on Terrace Street early Monday morning. A large amount of cash was removed from the register. Officers say the break in happened sometime between two and seven am. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call Honesdale Borough Police.
July 29, 2010
It was one year ago today that a tornado with winds up to 120 miles per hour cut a two mile path of destruction in Monroe County's Cherry Valley. One year later much of the damage is repaired but the scars on the landscape remain. Hundreds of trees were knocked down. Here at the Blakeslee farm a two hundred foot long barn was flattened and the family's home damaged beyond repair. Work to rebuild here continues. The tornado also struck the Stroudsmoor Inn and a few dozen other locations along Middle, Hamilton and Cherry Valley Roads.
July 29, 2010
Demolition has begun on the historic Dansbury Depot in East Stroudsburg. Less than 24 hours after a judge cleared the way for developer Troy Nauman to tear down the historic train station, crews were on scene ripping the building apart. Emotions ran high for those who witnessed the first pieces of the structure come crashing down. Nauman plans to build apartments and a restaurant at the site. he says demolition will last several weeks and hopes to start the new construction in early September...
July 29, 2010
A Bethlehem man faces charges after rolling his van this morning along Route 443 in Carbon County. Witnesses tell police, 22-year old Sean Doughtery was swerving and going over 60 miles an hour before crashing the van in Mahoning Township. He hit an emankment in front of the Tractor Supply store rolling the van several times. Doughtery told police he fell asleep while driving. He was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital for injuries. Police say citations for careless driving and failure to wear a seat belt are pending.
July 29, 2010
One man is dead and two other people are seriously injured including a good Samaritan who stopped to help during a hit and run accident in Marshalls Creek. Police say around one o'clock this morning 29 year old Nathan King of Bushkill and his female passenger crashed their motorcycle on route 209. After witnessing the accident Robert Scotko of East Stroudsburg stopped to help. A Chevy Tahoe approached the scene - but never stopped. The vehicle hit scotko and then ran over king. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 30 year old Benjamin Warner. He and his wife 24 year old Denise Warner were arraigned this morning in district court. Ben now faces six charges including criminal conspiracy, aggravated assault by vehicle, DUI and drug charges. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 4th.
July 29, 2010
If you drive Route 145 South through Laury's Station, you might have noticed a sign that says Anoopam Mission. Two miles down Clearview Road, you'll come across a striking structure built into the countryside. For the past seven years, this temple has served as the spiritual center for the Anoopam Mission in the U.S. Volunteer, Shree Patel says, the community is supportive of the mission. In fact they specialize in humanitarian work, providing help to organizations and even disaster relief. Everyone from all walks of life is invited to the temple. If you'd like more information on the temple and the mission, call 610-502-1100 or go to www.anoopam.org.
July 28, 2010
When soldiers are deployed their spouses can face new challenges they haven't handled in the past. That's why Angela Caban started a website angelacaban.com. This would enable her to reach out to other military spouses like her, in need of support and encouragement. Angela then turned to Facebook, where she made friends with other military spouses. After realizing how much support it gave her, she decided to make her own web page designed to let spouses know they were not alone. Guard and reserve spouses can use this website to ask questions, make friends, advertise their business or just stay up to date with current information.
July 28, 2010
The Carbon County Correctional facility has a new warden. The prison board hired Joseph Gross of Nazareth today. He's currently a sergeant for the City of Bethlehem and has served as a sergeant at the Lehigh County Prison. 30 people, including some current county employees, applied for the position after the previous warden retired. Gross will start as warden on September 7th.
July 28, 2010
Mahoning Township Police lose one officer but gain several more. Earlier this week, the township supervisors accepted the resignation of officer Marvin Mertz. He recently plead guilty to false reports for allegedly covering up two accidents while working as the acting chief of Mahoning Township in 2008. The township is replacing Mertz by making part time officer Tyler Meek full time. The department is also getting two new part time officers - Elliott Miller of Berwick and Richton Penn of Lehighton. All personnel actions with the Mahoning Township Police Department go into effect on Sunday.
July 28, 2010
An area state senator is working to make sure money for Pennsylvania's roadways doesn't get misdirected. State Senator Dave Argall says the governor is again threatening to "flex" millions of dollars in federal highway and bridge funds to mass transit systems like SEPTA in Philadelphia. He's working on a new senate bill to make sure it does not happen again. Argall feels if the governor isn't stopped roadways will continue to deteriorate and some roadways could become impassable. Argall's legislationg says federal transportation funds must be used for state roads and bridges only. He hopes to have the senate bill to the house in the next couple of months.
July 28, 2010
On-going construction projects in Slatington have some streets ripped up. Residents are wondering who's footing the bill and when it will all be over. Work on sewer lines in the Borough started back in early 2009. Some streets are being re-surfaced as well. Funding for the projects is coming from state and county grants. Most of the projects should be wrapped up be the end of 2010 and the money is there to ensure motorists will enjoy a smooth ride when it's all done.
July 28, 2010
The former Coaldale high school that is now known as the Coaldale Complex underwent an inspection today by borough engineers. Coaldale Councilmen David Yelito said the first floor is being renovated by the Head Start program, but the second and third floors along with the exterior are in deteriorated condition. Tuesday Engineers walked through the building to make their assessment of the future of the Complex. Officials are hoping the engineers report will be ready for the next council meeting on August 10, 2010.
July 27, 2010
The proposed Lehigh Valley Regional Crime Center will get a $400,000 grant from Senators Casey and Specter. The center will provide the 17 police departments in the Lehigh Valley, a central database for sharing information. Lehigh County Executive Don Cunningham says, having the database would enable police departments in different areas and counties to share information quickly. In the past, the DA would have to assemble multiple police departments. The total price tag for the center is around $3.5 million and almost $2 million has been secured so far. The center should be up and running by the end of 2011.
July 27, 2010
The trial of a Stroud Township Iraq War veteran accused of murder enters its second day. 24-year-old Jerel Johnson is accused of killing Mingo Lee in 2009 at a barbeque. On Tuesday a pathologist took the stand and said Lee was shot 13 times. The defense then played four chilling 911 calls after the shooting happened. On one of the calls, Johnson takes the phone and tells the dispatcher "I shot him! He's dead! I shot him many times! Get the Cops!" Defense attorney James Swetz says testimony will last through thursday, when closing arguments from both sides are expected to be heard...
July 27, 2010
A phone scam has been targeting thousands of people across the Poconos for the last several months. The scammers have been using Wayne Bank's name to get people to give their account information over the phone. Bank officials say they will never ask for your account information because they already have it. They say it's going to take the entire community to keep these con artists out of business. Officials say if you do receive a computerized call asking for any personal information just hang up and contact your bank or credit card company.
July 26, 2010
The Boy Scouts teach kids about leadership, character and community service. 2010 marks a century of scouting in America and a year long celebration of the organization. Three local troops camped in the Palmerton Borough Park over Friday and Saturday. They built bridges, a massive wooden gateway and cooked food. The event ended with a flag retirement ceremony conducted by the local VFW.
July 26, 2010
A Fire Marshall is searching for the cause of a fire that heavily damaged a home in Stroudsburg Friday. It broke out Friday afternoon in the 800 block of Thomas Street. The flames were discovered by a 13-year old boy in one half of the duplex. Firefighters were able to confine the flames to a second floor bedroom - and prevent the fire from spreading to the other side of the home. 16 people and their pets were safely evacuated from the home. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
July 26, 2010
Police in Wayne County want to know who tried to break into a church. The burglary attempt happened at the First Presbyterian Church on Tenth Street in Honesdale. Someone tried to pry open a front door to the church. The attempt was made sometime after 5-pm last Thursday. It was discovered at noon on Friday. If you know something that could help police in their investigation you are asked to call Honesdale Borough Police.
July 26, 2010
A lost wheel along interstate 80 leads to the arrest of two men over the weekend. Officers say they were trying to get away with a stolen log splitter when the wheel fell off. State Police at Swiftwater say 25-year old Joshua Tanner of Lackawanna County and 29-year old Corey Bickhardt of Gouldsboro face theft charges for taking the log splitter from a home in Stroudsburg around 4-am Saturday. Officers say the two were found searching for the wheel that had fallen off the machine on interstate 80. Police say tanner gave them a false name and Bickhardt was wanted in Wayne County for a firearms violation. According to a police report the two men eventually admitted to stealing the log splitter.
July 26, 2010
The fight to save the Dansbury Depot from demolition will now be heading to Monroe County Court. On Friday an injunction was requested by Teri Van Britsom. She says questions still remain about the fire investigation and she's requesting proof there's no hazardous materials at the site. On Monday Depot owner Troy Nauman filed a petition to dissolve the injunction and is now asking for three million dollars as a security bond. President Judge Ronald Vican has ordered a hearing set for Wednesday at 2pm...
July 26, 2010
Road work could cause some delays on Interstate 80 in Monroe County this week. Penn-DOT is repairing the I-80 bridge over Sullivan Trail near Tannersville. Traffic heading east is affected. The work here is expected to continue through Thursday. Penn-DOT also says they will be performing general maintenance from the Bartonsville exit to the New Jersey state line this week. They’re asking drivers to be alert for all work zones.
July 26, 2010
A Lehigh County man allegedly threatens to kill a family when his daughter moves in with them. According to court papers, 43-year old Charles Rex of Lynn Township went to Joseph Wissler's home yesterday, and allegedly swung a bat at him. Rex demanded that his 16-year old daughter leave the Wissler's and come home with him. Rex's daughter told police she was scared of her 43-year old father - who allegedly hit her and held a gun to her head. She filed a complaint with Children and Youth, and got permission from her mother to move in with the Wissler's. Before Rex left the Wissler home he allegedly threatended to kill the family and beat his daughter. Rex was later arrested at his Lynn Township home. He is charged with several counts including aggravated and simple assualt.
July 26, 2010
The Walnutport Water Authority has lifted its water restriction. Earlier this month water customers were asked to conserve by stopping unnecessary outdoor water use like washing cash. The water authority president today says due to adequate rain fall in the last two weeks, and improvements to the water system - the water restriction has been removed.
July 26, 2010
A trial for the former military officer accused of first degree murder is underway in Monroe County. This is video of 23-year-old Jerel Jermaine Johnson arriving today at the county courthouse in Stroudsburg. Johnson is accused of killing former corrections officer Mingo Lee. Lee was the best friend of Johnson’s step-father Barry Rose. Rose was murdered at his Saw Creek Estates home in 2007.
According to police, Johnson shot 51-year-old Lee just days after his father's killer was convicted last April. Johnson and Lee apparently got into a physical altercation after having a heated argument about the Rose Murder trial. It happened at Johnson’s Blue Mountain Lakes Estates home during a family barbeque. Johnson claims the shooting was self-defense. The trial resumes tomorrow.
July 23, 2010
Last year was a tough year for the auto industry. Many U.S. car makers went through bankruptcy. Toyota sales were hurt by recalls and safety concerns. Ford Motor Company's sales and profits for 2010 are exceeding expectations. Lehighton Ford's Sales Manager, Kevin Saul, says their numbers are better than they've been in years. Incentives are one reason people are buying right now and he's also seeing a large number of Toyota trade-ins. Ford officials expect even better sales in 2011.
July 23, 2010
The group in charge of making roads safer in Monroe County is coming up with new ideas. Originally formed to focus on Interstate 80, members of the Safe 80 committee say recent traffic fatalities is expanding their efforts. At a meeting this morning, the group discussed the repaving of I80 and possible campaigns to educate distracted drivers. They also focused in on slowing cars down on the Route 209-33 interchange. Commissioner Janet Weidensaul suggests the use of rumble strips but because it’s a state road legislation may be required. At least three people have been killed or injured on that stretch of roadway within the last month.
July 23, 2010
Residents in the borough of Lehighton are urged to be on the look out - police are investigating several break-ins. This afternoon police were examining one of the homes hit along South Eighth Street. Borough police tell us the homes were all entered at night. In some cases the residents were home sleeping. Items have been reported stolen from the houses. Police say they cannot stress enough to residents to call 911 if they see or hear anything suspicious.
July 23, 2010
A project to generate power in Nesquehoning is slated for groundbreaking in the next few months. The developer of the "Green Acres Industrial Park" tells us although no date has been set yet, the groundbreaking for the solar park will happen sometime in the fall. The $120 million project will create the largest solar park east of the Mississippi. It will generate enough electricity to power over 3,000 homes. The developer expects to have a groundbreaking date by the end of August.
July 23, 2010
Construction continues on time for a new Mahoning Township store that's famous for rolling back prices. Work on the WalMart Supercenter along Route 443 in Mahoning Township began in November. A WalMart spokesperson tells us construction is going well, and the store is projected to open for business in mid-october. In addition to work at the site, crews are widening Route 443 to handle traffic.
July 23, 2010
A piece of forgotten history that provides us with a small glimpse of what life was like back in the 1800's in Wayne County is finally getting some much needed TLC The Wallenpaupack Historical Society gained ownership of the Purdytown Cemetery from PPL. PPL agreed to make a donation to the historical society to make repairs and restore the cemetery, as long as they could be taken off the deed. The Purdy family, who settled what is now Lakeville back in the late 1700's, are buried in the cemetery. The donation from PPL will be used to remove tree's build a fence and rededicate the 52 graves.
July 22, 2010
The Carbon County Police Chiefs Association is looking for students. They are hosting their first ever Adult Citizens Police Academy. The program will allow participants to get an overview of what the police force goes through on a daily basis. The class size is limted to 30 participants and is a first come first serve basis. The applications will be available starting Monday, July 26 at the following police departments: Mahoning Township, Jim Thorpe, Lansford and Kidder Township. You must be 18 or older to join. The free class begins in September.
July 22, 2010
Church arsonist Andrew Griffith, was back in court today for yet another sentencing. His original sentencing was a long time coming. The case was pushed back twice, due to two separate accidents. Defense Attorney John Waldron, filed a petition for re-consideration just ten days after Judge Webb's original ruling back in June. Griffith was sentenced 19 months to four years. His Co-Defendant, John Petrovich could serve almost two years in county jail. Today, Griffith's sentence was reduced and he could now be released almost a year earlier. He'll still be responsible for restitution in excess of $390,000.
July 22, 2010
A car crash that closed Route 191 near Analomink for a time last night closed the road again today. Crews shut down 191 to replace a utility pole damaged in the accident just after 6-pm. Police say the 20 year old male driver from Cresco was traveling north near the intersection with route 447. The car went off the road and struck the pole. The driver was not seriously injured. Utility crews temporarily fixed the pole last night. The road had to be closed for a few hours today to allow them to replace it.
July 22, 2010
A New York man has been arrested for dealing heroin in Pike County. 27-year old Jason Walters of Middletown has been charged with delivering drugs and other offenses. Pike County District Attorney Ray Tonkin says Walters sold 30-packets of heroin to an undercover officer July first. When he was arrested he was found with an additional 100-packets of heroin. Walters is being held under 175-thousand dollars bail and faces a hearing next month.
July 22, 2010
A man wanted for passing counterfeit chips at the mount airy casino has been arrested. State police say 61-year old frank Dellisanti of East Hanover, New Jersey used the chips at mount airy on Saturday. Officers say Dellisanti used 19 -one hundred dollar chips at black jack and craps tables. A casino employee recognized the chips as fake as he attempted to cash-in five of them. And Dellisanti then ran out of the casino. He was located at a local mobile home park last night and taken into custody without incident. Police formally charged him with theft, receiving stolen property and other charges at a hearing before a district judge this afternoon.
July 22, 2010
The Northampton Community College's Monroe County campus is poised to undergo a 72 million dollar makeover. Half the funding is already in place. The other half will come from Monroe County--and that's where commissioners are not seeing eye to eye. Last fall monroe County residents voted by a 2-1 margin to not raise property taxes to fund the project. Commissioner Janet Weidensaul wants an independant financial expert to review the board's plan. She also wants to see tuition for Monroe County residents dropped by seventy dollars a credit...
July 22, 2010
A jury in Pike County has convicted a man accused of leading a heroin distribution ring. 30-year old Wayne Allen Smith of Milford was found guilty on three counts of delivery of heroin, conspiracy and other charges today. Smith was originally arrested in October of 2008. Police say he lead a heroin ring that operated in Milford, Matamoras and Port Jervis, New York. Undercover officers purchased more than two thousand dollars of heroin that they say was supplied by smith. He faces a maximum sentence of 80 years in jail when he is sentenced in September.
July 22, 2010
Weather experts say this is the second hottest July on record and the high temperatures are bringing more people outdoors. Tourists and residents alike filed into the small office at the Pocono Mountains Visitors bureau today searching for things to do. It's a far cry from last year when the summer season was dampened with cool, wet weather. The bureau's Chief Financial Officer says the change is welcome. Staci Barkalow says people seem to be most interested in getting outdoors for activities like swimming, boating, and hikes through the forests.
July 22, 2010
It may have been a bumpy road but this year the Wayne County Correctional Facility has reached high honors. After a year and a half plagued with problems including an inmate escape and corrections officers arrested for abuse, the Wayne County Jail is finally on the rebound. A three day intense inspection of the facility by the Department of Corrections found the jail to be 100 percent compliant. Thanks to high markings this year the jail is now exempt from inspections until 2012.
July 21, 2010
A tractor trailer accident caused major headaches for people travelling Interstate 80 in Monroe County this morning. Police say the driver hit a construction barrier - causing the rig to roll over around six am near the Scotrun exit. The driver was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital. We do not know the extent of his injuries tonight. Traffic was detoured off the interstate for a time this morning. Salvage crews had to unload the trailer so they could get that truck back on its wheels. Both lanes reopened to traffic this afternoon.
July 21, 2010
Fire rips through an apartment building in Pocono Township. It happened overnight at this unit on Route 611 in the Swiftwater area. Fire officials were called to the scene around midnight. They managed to knock down the flames but not before much of the building was damaged. The eight people living in the three-story structure made it out but now are homeless. They are being assisted by the American Red Cross of Monroe County. Donations can be made by calling 570-476-3800.
July 21, 2010
Some strong thunderstorms blew across Wayne and Pike Counties today. Many people were on the lookout when the national weather service issued a tornado warning this afternoon. News 13 found trees down on wires along Route 507 near Lake Wallenpaupack. We haven't heard any reports of a tornado but strong winds lifted a dock out of the lake near Tafton. The tornado warning expired around 2:30 this afternoon in Wayne and Pike Counties.
July 21, 2010
For decades the former Zinc Company siren has sounded twice a day, signaling the noon lunchtime and the nighttime curfew for children. Postcard-style petitions have mysteriously showing up at homes in town. It's not known who is sending them. The message is clear, someone wants to silence the night siren. Borough Manager Rodger Danielson, has received four petitions within the last few days. He says it may be time to look into whether or not the siren still serves a purpose. Years ago, Palmerton Borough residents complained about the twelve o'clock siren. It was shut down, but soon after overwhelming support came for bringing it back.
July 21, 2010
A truck driver accused of killing a woman in Stroud Township last month may have to stand trial. A district judge today waived homicide by vehicle charges against William Blackburn to county court after several witnesses testified he drove his tractor trailer through a four way intersection at Route 209 and Schafer Schoolhouse Road June 24th. Several vehicles were already stopped at that intersection, including 50-year-old New York resident Susan Erban. She died at the scene after Blackburn’s truck slammed into her Mini Cooper. Several other people were injured. Blackburn became emotional after the today’s hearing, and says he is sorry because he never meant for this to happen.
July 21, 2010
Pike County Advanced Life Support is literally putting a freeze on cardiac patients. New treatment called therapeutic hypothermia actually lowers the body temperature of a patient suffering from cardiac arrest which helps reduce neurological damage. The treatment gives the patient a chance to not only live but live a normal life after recovery. Pike ALS is the first service in the region to have therapeutic hypothermia. They say it won't be used all the time, about one out of every 20 calls are cardiac arrest patients, but for those that need it - it could mean the difference between life and death.
July 20, 2010
The bad economy is even affecting volunteerism. It's becoming harder to use your spare time to help others, when you have to help yourself make ends meet. As the population ages, more people are relying on home delivered meals. In some parts of our area, there aren't any volunteers to make the rounds. Volunteers are desperately needed in the Panther Valley area to deliver meals to shut-ins. If you'd like to volunteer, contact Jean Zimmerman at 610-377-2021.
July 20, 2010
A B-P gas station in Monroe County is now doing business under a new name. The B-P signs came down this week at this station off Route 209 near Sciota. The station is now called "gas and goods". But the switch is not related to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Late last year B-P decided to stop distributing gas in Pennsylvania outside Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Several other b-p stations in Monroe County have now switched to other suppliers. Employees we spoke with at the station said the oil spill hasn't really affected their sales.
July 20, 2010
A lighting strike is being blamed for a fire that gutted a home last night in Wayne County. A family of four lived at the home off faller road near Lake Ariel. Firefighters believe lightning followed some electric lines to enter the home. Everyone was able to get out OK but the structure was heavily damaged. The AMERICAN RED CROSS is providing assistance to the family. Another home was damaged by a lightning strike in Waymart around the same time but the homeowner was able to put out the fire before it could spread.
July 20, 2010
State Police in Swiftwater are continuing their stepped up patrols along the Route 33 corridor in Monroe County. Sergeant Jason Reznick tells News13 since the heightened patrols began on July 7th, more than 200 citations have been written. Reznick says the number of reported accidents in the notoriously dangerous corridor has also dropped. Three fatal accidents involving tractor trailers on Routes 33 and 209 occurred several weeks ago. Since then police have been pulling over trucks and doing on-site inspections. Reznick says the increased coverage will continue into the foreseeable future.
July 20, 2010
Some out of work residents in Monroe County are happy with federal lawmakers.
Today, Democrats in the Senate mustered enough votes to bypass a Republican filibuster, and finally approve a bill extending unemployment benefits. The extension only affects individuals receiving unemployment for less than six months. No help is being offered to those whose benefits have already run out.
July 20, 2010
Hundreds of volunteers are scouring the Delaware River this week in search of one thing : trash. The river clean up is spearheaded by Ruth Jones, owner of Kitattinny Canoes. Jones says over the last two decades she's seen it all, but most importantly she watched the river transform from a dumping ground to a pristine tourist attraction. Over the last 20 years volunteers have spent more than 50 thousand hours pulling over 7 thousand tires and nearly 400 tons of trash out of the Delaware River.
July 20, 2010
The new owner of the Dansbury Depot has given a group of Save the Depot supporters until Friday to raise $50,000 to temporarily hold the demolition. Troy Nauman says he's impressed by the grassroots campaign started several days ago to save the historic train station. The Depot was destroyed in a fire last october and sat vacant along the railroad tracks. The group has started their own facebook page under Save the Dansbury Depot. People wishing to donate can log onto www.savedansburydepot.org.
July 19, 2010
Two men have died after a sky diving accident over the weekend in East Stroudsburg. It happened Saturday afternoon at the Stroudsburg-Pocono Airport in Smithfield Township. Police say the victims parachutes deployed but they became entangled. 70-year old Theodore Wilson of New Jersey died soon after the crash at Pocono Medical Center. 75-year old George Flynn of New Jersey died Sunday at Lehigh Valley Hospital. Police have ruled the deaths an accident.
July 19, 2010
A Monroe County man was arrested Saturday after he allegedly shot two Stroudsburg residents. Police say 23-year old Nicholas Craig Moffatt opened fire on 23 year old Christina Figueroa and 27 year old Joshua Jones at a home on Church Street in Stroud Township. Both victims were transported to Pocono Medical Center. Police say the two were hit by birdshot from at least three shotgun blasts. Moffatt was taken to the Monroe County Jail on charges of aggravated assault, simple assault and reckless endangerment.
July 19, 2010
Two men wanted for a murder in western Pennsylvania have been captured in Tannersville. State police were searching for the suspects after receiving a bulletin that they may be travelling through our area on interstate 80 early Friday morning. Police apprehended 21 year old Taevon Dixon and 24-year old Jharon Dixon after pulling over a u-haul van on route 715. The two brothers are charged with the shooting death of a 38-year old man in Johnstown Pennsylvania. The Dixons have been extradited back to Cambria County to face charges.
July 19, 2010
A couple from Mount Pocono has been charged with trafficking cocaine after a weekend raid by police. Pocono mountain regional police say they searched the home of 43 year old Victor Requena and 40 year old Doreen Cruz-Requena on Knox Street in Mount Pocono Saturday morning. Officers discovered cocaine, packaging materials, scales and other items used in selling drugs. According to police Requena told them he was selling drugs from the home for several months because he lost his job and needed to make money. Requena says he bought the cocaine in bulk in the Bronx New York and brought it to Mount Pocono by bus. He is being held in the Monroe County Jail. His wife was released on bail.
July 19, 2010
A corrections officer at the Monroe County Jail will face a trial on charges he had sex with an inmate. 42-year old Anthony Perez of Middle Smithfield Township faces one count of institutional sexual assault. According to court papers Perez and a female inmate had sexual contact in a storage area at the Monroe County Prison on April 25th. Prison officials found out about the incident and contacted the Monroe County District Attorney. A district judge sent the case on to Monroe County Court after a preliminary hearing this morning.
July 19, 2010
Some people living in Delaware Water Gap could lose water service tomorrow because of repairs. Borough officials say water service will be shut off to customers starting at 8-am on Foxtown Hill Road, Maple Avenue, Parkway Drive, Crosdale and West Main Street. Once service is restored a water boil advisory will be in effect until further notice.
July 19, 2010
A 24-year-old man says he is guilty of first degree murder and wants to be punished. Michael Parrish is pleading guilty plea to two counts of capital murder. Today, he told a judge he shot his girlfriend Victoria Adams and their 19 month old Sidney last July. A judge spent more than an hour explaining the consequences of a conviction but Parrish says there's no doubt he intentionally committed the crimes and is at peace with his decision. The guilty plea means there will be no jury trial. But Parrish still has the right to have a jury decide his punishment. He faces life in prison or the death penalty.
July 19, 2010
A fire set outside the concession stand at the Towamensing Township ball field causes lots of damage. Garbage and cardboard were used to start the fire sometime over night. The flames melted about eight feet of the roof over hang and charred the side of building and a bench. Township officials believe whoever started the fire used a garden hose to put it out, but they left it running all night. Two large lights were also smashed. A township resident spotted the running hose and damage this morning and called police. The ball field and dugouts were not damaged.
July 19, 2010
After two years of planning, they're finally breaking ground for a major project at the Slatington Elementary School. Student essay contest winners joined officials in the ground breaking ceremony this morning. The project includes a new addition and renovation of much of the existing building. Slatington Elementary was built in 1971 and is the only school in the district to never have any renovations. The $21 million project is expected to take two years to complete.
July 19, 2010
A Weatherly man is arrested after suspected heroin is found inside the car he was riding in. State police stopped the vehicle yesterday along Intersate 80 in Monroe County. 26-year old Josh Gutosky was riding with 35-year old Kevin Jenigen of Freeland. Jenigen was pulled over because he failed to stay in his lane. Police searched the car after they determinded Jenigen was under the influence of a controlled substance. They found 240 packets of suspected heroin and two syringes. Police also found two suspected heroin needles in Gutosky's shoe. Both men were taken to Monroe County Prison.
July 16, 2010
Boil advisory for Highland Acres Homes, Delaware Twp., Pike County. Water outages were reported late this afternoon - may be the result of a leak - residents should boil their water and also try to conserve water until further notice.
July 16, 2010
Early summer heat is sparking concerns over possible drought conditions but local farmers say they are on top of it.
Growers at A& J Produce in Stroudsburg say even though there has been little rain in the past few months, their crops are in good condition. That's because when Mother Nature takes a break, irrigation pumps can take over.
It takes expertise to manipulate irrigation levels properly. But farmers say watering crops themselves is less dangerous than last summer, when record rain and cold nearly destroyed their harvest.
July 15, 2010
Most people don’t look forward to going to jail but many residents in Carbon County were eager to go behind bars for good cause. Residents were arrested and taken to jail where they had to raise their bail money by calling friends and co-workers to make a donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. All the money raised will support children in our area.
July 15, 2010
It's official, The National Weather Service has declared Wednesday morning's storm in Northwestern Lehigh County, a tornado. The storm ripped through three miles of New Tripoli and Lynn Township around 4 o' clock Wednesday morning, bringing down trees, power lines and crushing roofs. A Lynn Township farm had significant damage. The farm's livestock shelter had it's roof ripped off and sent flying into three other buildings. Debris could be found up to two miles away. Many of the people affected by the tornado expect to be cleaning up for at least the next few weeks.
July 15, 2010
We now know how an inmate at the Monroe County jail died. Toxicology reports confirm 44-year-old peter lee had nine different prescription medications in his system. It’s not clear if they all were his prescriptions but officials from the Coroner’s Office say his death is directly related to the use of multiple medications. The Monroe County District Attorney's office is conducting its own investigation. At this point, no charges have been filed.
July 15, 2010
A teen is seriously hurt after being shot at his home yesterday in Monroe County. Police were called to investigate a shooting at a home on Yellowstone Drive in the Sierra View development in Tunkhannock Township around 3-pm yesterday afternoon. A 17-year old male was shot in is ribs by an assault rifle in his home. Police say the juvenile suffered life threatening injuries and was flown by helicopter to Geisinger Medical Center for treatment. A second 17-year old male was in the home at the time of the shooting. Police are still investigating and haven't released any more information at this time.
July 15, 2010
A Pike County man is facing charges after a standoff with police this week. State Police say 63 year old Alfred Heeney was taken into custody early yesterday morning after holding officers at bay for ten hours. He had barricaded himself in his home in the Masthope development of Lackawaxen Township. Around 3:30 Tuesday afternoon Heeny allegedly fired a handgun at his wife. She and her son ran to a neighbor's house where they called police. Heeney is charged with aggravated assault and other related charges. He was sent to the Pike County Jail on 150 thousand dollars bail.
July 15, 2010
A hired handyman is in court after allegedly assaulting the homeowner's daughter. 48-year old David Reinhard of East Stroudsburg is facing sex assault charges after an incident at a Price Township home two weeks ago. According to police Reinhardt was hired to paint the home, when he decided to take his pants off and go into the 17-year old girl's bedroom and touched her innapropriately. The victim screamed, punched Rehnardt, threw him out, and locked the door. Rehnardt waived all charges to Monroe County Court. He is being held at the prison under $25,000 bail...
July 15, 2010
As the job market continues to struggle towards a rebound in Monroe County, officials at East Stroudsburg University are encouraging residents to take a more creative approach to their careers. Aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages packed into a classroom at the colleges' new leadership center in Marshalls Creek Thursday to hear from venture capitalist Rob Weber. Mr. Weber is also a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and says a down economy fosters innovation, as well as, innovation. Weber is teaching students young and old about formulating successful business plans. The program is funded by a state grant to help bring more startup companies to the area. It’s the second year its been held.
July 15, 2010
One day after major decisions are made regarding natural gas drilling in the Upper Delaware Region, a Tri-County Coalition forms to help educate local residents. Just yesterday, the Delaware River Basin Commission voted to allow two exploratory wells in Northern Wayne County to continue running tests despite the ban put into place last month. Now economic agencies in Wayne, Delaware and Sullivan counties are working together. So that if the natural gas industry is here to stay, they can make sure the entire community benefits from it. Wayne County officials predict the marcellus shale drilling could bring over one thousand jobs to the region.
July 14, 2010
The Carbon County Drought Task Force met for the first time in three years today, to talk about current water supplies and plans for dealing with a drought. Hot, dry conditions have prompted officials to get together and talk about area water supplies. Local municipalities are doing well and have no water restrictions at this point. While recent downpours have helped keep water supplies strong, it's hard to tell how much is getting down to the aquifer. The Task Force hasn't scheduled any more meetings at this point, but members will be monitoring water supplies closely through the summer.
July 14, 2010
Hundreds of people from the Poconos traveled to Trenton, New Jersey to hear how the Delaware River Basin Commission would vote on several natural gas drilling issues. The first move by the DRBC was a vote to allow two test exploratory wells in northern Wayne County to continue progress, despite a ban on drilling put into effect last month. The Commission also voted to allow water withdrawal from the Lackawaxen River, but the water can not be removed until well pads are built and in place. The Commission also agreed to hold hearings in NEPA on whether to strengthen or weaken its moratorium on drilling for natural gas in the river basin.
July 14, 2010
A trial is under way for a Pocono Township man accused of shooting his girlfriend. The trial of Jesse Oltmann got underway this morning at the Monroe County Courthouse. The first day of trial began with testimony from several police officers. They say last December Oltmann used a 32-caliber hand gun to shoot his girlfriend in the leg. Oltmann could be sent to jail if convicted. This past may he was set free after a jury found him not guilty of terrorizing neighbors. The shooting trial resumes tomorrow.
July 14, 2010
Now that the summer vacation season is in full swing, Pennsylvania State Police are hitting the roads hard to stop drivers who drink. Swiftwater state police will be conducting sobriety checkpoints in Monroe County during the upcoming weekend. This is part of the P-S-P Strike Force program designed to reduce alcohol related crashes through highly visible enforcement activities. Roving patrols will also be used to identify impaired drivers.
July 14, 2010
A Monroe County jury today found Gary Gerber Jr. of Luzerne County guilty of slashing Robert Hagan’s throat and running over him with his own car.
The murder happened in Hamilton Township back in 1993 but Gerber appealed his initial guilty plea in order to go to trial. After four days in court and five hours of deliberations, the jury convicted Gerber of murder in the first degree. That conviction comes with a likely sentence of life in prison. If Gerber had not appealed his first plea, he could have been released in the next five years. Gerber's lawyer says they will appeal. But in the meantime, he will be sentenced for first degree murder.
July 13, 2010
Every year PPL gives out a grant to help local economic development groups.This year Carbon County will use the forty five hundred dollar grant to purchase a customized version of the PASITESEARCH.COM but for Carbon County. Officials say it’s a search function that will allow commercial businesses and any site selector to come onto our website and do a search in the area. Users can search for up to date community demographics, labor and infrastructure assets, as well as workforce and community reports. Local realtors will be able to up load properties that are on the market, making our area more accessible to business owners.
July 13, 2010
The long wait is finally over. Table games have officially arrived in Pennsylvania. Dozens of gamblers arrived early Tuesday morning to the Mount Airy Casino to be the first in line to roll the dice or play some cards. Over 60 table games are now up and running featuring games like black jack, roulette, poker and craps. On Sunday the casino held a test day for the table games. All procedes were donated to two children's charities...
July 13, 2010
The Trinity Pantry in Lehighton, has helped feed less-fortunate families in Carbon County for over 30 years. In these uncertain financial times with high unemployment and lay-offs, the community needs the pantry more than ever. It's the largest food pantry in Carbon County serving over 400 families. Official say they'll continue to meet the local need, despite the ever increasing number of mouths to feed. Monetary donations can be mailed. Perishable and non-perishable food can be brought to the pantry at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lehighton.
July 13, 2010
Although thunderstorms brought rain through out the area, some municipalities are continuing their burn bans. Bowmanstown was one of the first towns to issue a burn ban last week. It has been extended until further notice. Four other municipalities area listed under a burn ban at the Carbon County Communications Center - they are Lower Towamensing Township, East Penn Township, Mahoning Township and Jim Thorpe. If you're not sure whether you can burn in your town, call your local municipal office first.
July 12, 2010
A Monroe County man is facing aggravated assault charges after police say he assaulted two people with a rock. Police say 49-year old Francis John Pett of East Stroudsburg was found trespassing at a home in the Pocono Forested Acres community late Thursday night. Officers say Pett hit a 41-year old woman and a 77 year old man several times with a rock - causing serious injuries to both people. Police say Pett was violating a protection from abuse order. He was arrested at another home after the assault and faces a hearing on the charges later this week.
July 12, 2010
We're learning more about a police chase and accident that claimed a life Friday night. Lehigh Township Police from nearby Wayne County began pursuing Kenneth Strausser of Stroudsburg on Interstate 380 near Gouldsboro Friday afternoon. The pursuit continued south to the Mount Pocono area where Straussers car crashed into a tree on laurel road. Strausser's wife - 26-year old Allison Strausser was killed. Police say Kenneth Strausser was stopped several times for driving without a license. He may have been trying to elude police because there were warrants for his arrest in Northampton County. Police are still investigating and more charges may be filed against Strausser.
July 12, 2010
An accident closed part of Route 33 for a time this afternoon. It happened in the northbound lanes of 33 at the Wind Gap exit an s-u-v and a car were involved. The s-u-v ended up on its side after the impact. Two people were taken to Pocono Medical Center. Their injuries are not believed to be life threatening. Police say one of the vehicles may have been slowing down because of road construction ahead. Traffic was down to one lane in that area.
July 12, 2010
Motorists cannot stop at a rest area on Interstate 84 this week. The east and west bound rest stops located between the Greentown and Promised Land exits closed down today. PennDOT says the reason for the closure is scheduled maintenance. While news-13 was on location - one worker said he was repairing the air conditioner. The rest area and parking lot will be closed down to traffic through Friday.
July 12, 2010
The trial of 30-year-old Phillip Vonville is underway in Monroe County. Police say he fatally stabbed 19-year-old Christopher Hernandez last September in Tunkhannock Township. Today's testimony focused on the ex-fiancé of Vonville who says she tried to stop him from killing her best friend. Hernandez and Vonville's 18-year-old ex-fiancé had been friends since high school. The young woman told jurors today that Vonville is jealous, controlling and she hopes he is punished. Vonville faces a first degree murder charge.
July 12, 2010
Construction crews are asking motorists to slow down while traveling through a road construction project in Pike County. As construction continues on the Route 2001 widening project in Lehman Township, so does the reckless driving through the work zones. Instead of focusing on their job both PennDOT and Leeward Construction crews are keeping their eyes on the road, as motorists speed through the work zones that are posted at 25 miles per hour. Officials want to remind motorists, fines double if your pulled over in a construction zone.
July 12, 2010
The oldest, the tallest, and the largest people are included in the Guiness World Records. But, what about the most skinny dippers in the water at once? A unique resort that's celebrating 65 years in operation, hopes to break the world record that was set last year. In 2009, 185 people took to the pool here at Sunny Rest Lodge in Palmerton. At beaches and around the country, over 13,000 folks helped establish the Guiness World Record. 129 people were in the pool this year. Sunny Rest officials believe the ugly morning weather may have scared some people away. There's no official total number yet from Guiness about how many people dipped around the country.
July 12, 2010
St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Albrightsville is holding a first ever clothing drive. They're accepting new or gently used items now through Saturday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church will then give all donations away from July 21st - July 24th.
July 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
July 22, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
July 23, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
July 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more details call the church at 570-722-0964. St. Paul's is located off of Route 534 in Albrightsville along Old Stage Road.
July 9, 2010
Rescues in the wilderness happen more often this time of the year. The person being rescued isn't the one paying the bill. Earlier this week rescue crews responded to an unconscious hiker on the Appalachian Trial. Almost 40 volunteer crews members responded. A lot of time and money goes into a rescue like that. These days, both are becoming harder to find for volunteer fire companies. A rescue can cost as little as the cost of fuel, up into the hundreds of thousands of dollars for multi-day rescues. Only in extreme circumstances will the county go to the State for help with a rescue.
July 9, 2010
Police in Monroe County are searching for a teen who ran away from home. State Police at Fern Ridge say 15 year old Christian Tuliszewski of Effort has been missing since July fourth. A search of his Facebook page found that he had posted new information through a mobile connection earlier today and he was keeping in regular contact with his friends. Police say Tuliszewski is 15 years old. He stands six foot two and weighs 160-pounds. Anyone with information about his location is asked to contact State Police at Fern Ridge.
July 9, 2010
Table games at Mount Airy Casino will be up and running this Sunday beginning at two pm. Patrons will be able to press their luck at all the table games including blackjack, roulette and poker. All the proceeds the casino takes in during Sunday’s test day will benefit the St Joesph's Center and the Friendship House. Officials say the excitement is mounting. All are invited to attend Sunday’s test day. The official grand opening for table games will be held next Tuesday.
July 9, 2010
Another community in our area has decided to ban burning because of the dry conditions. Paradise Township issued a ban on all open burning. Stroud Township announced a similar ban yesterday. Both bans are in effect until further notice.
July 9, 2010
Family members of a Luzerne County man on trial for murder in Monroe County say they are ready for the case to be over. 38-year-old Gary Gerber is accused in the 1993 murder of New Jersey hairdresser Robert Hagan. He originally pled guilty but decided to appeal, so now he's on trial. His father, ex-wife, brother, and two friends testified today that Gerber told them he killed Hagan. They say he did it because Hagan sexually assaulted him. They all became confused on the stand when prodded for more details. Gerber’s lawyer says all the time that's passed makes this case difficult. Gerber previously pled guilty to third degree murder and received 10-20 years. With this trial, he could be convicted of first degree murder and be punished to life in prison. The trial resumes Monday.
July 9, 2010
Authorities are now saying Gerald Avvisato shot himself at a gas station on Route 209 on Tuesday. And his brother was found Wednesday in their Parryville apartment with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. A ruling on the manner of death for Nicholas will not be made until police finish their investigation. However, the Carbon County Coroner told us yesterday this case looks like it may be a murder-suicide. Gerald may have killed his brother Nicholas days before he killed himself - the coroner says Nicholas' body had been decomposing days before it was found.
July 9, 2010
If you would like to help out the Amaro family who lost everything in Tuesday morning's fire in A Pocono Country Place, you can drop off donations at any local PNC Bank. Checks can be made payable to the Amaro Family Fire Victims Foundation. For more information on how to help, contact Carol Robinson at 570-977-3386.
July 8, 2010
Police say the death of a Parryville man is suspicious. Nicholas Avvisato was found one day after his twin brother's suicide. Pennsylvania State Police say Gerald Avvisato killed himself at a gas station on Route 209 on Tuesday. Nicholas's body was found on Wednesday and officials say it had been decomposing for days. State Police questioned tenants of the same building the brothers lived in. Some of them believe there is a connection death the deaths. They hadn't seen Nicholas since an incident over a week ago. The investigation by State Police is ongoing and an autopsy was done on Nicholas today. We have no details at this point about either, but the Carbon County Coroner tells News 13 this case looks like it may be a murder-suicide.
July 8, 2010
A Stroudsburg man is facing charges for holding up two people with a handgun early this morning. Stroud area regional police say 22-year old Jairo Mugaburu pointed a handgun at the victims and told them to empty their pockets. It happened just before one-am at Quaker Alley in Stroudsburg. One of the victims lunged at Mugaburu and they began to struggle. Police say Mugaburu dropped the handgun and ran off but not before being bitten in the right bicep. Police later caught up with Mugaburu. He was identified by the victims and found with a bite mark on his arm. He is facing robbery charges tonight.
July 8, 2010
A Lake Ariel man has plead guilty to robbery charges in Wayne county. Jonathan Charles Rivera was charged with holding up the Smokin' Joes store in Beach Lake last December. Rivera was 17 at the time of the robbery and was charged as an adult. Authorities say Rivera threatened the store clerk with a b-b gun and a knife. He got away with an undisclosed amount of cash. He plead guilty to one count of robbery today and faces sentencing in about six weeks.
July 8, 2010
Some commuters who ride Martz Bus say they've had to endure long rides back from New York in the past few days without air conditioning. News 13 received several complaints from commuters who use the Mount Pocono terminal last night. They say the a-c worked last night but according to the commuters it hasn't worked several times over the past few days. Mount Pocono Commuter Daniel Malloy says he takes the bus regularly and said the air conditioning was not working on the fifth and sixth. News 13 contacted Martz Bus today. A company spokesperson says no problems with air conditioners have been reported with buses at the Mount Pocono terminal. The company says the air conditioning units on their buses can take time to cool down a bus that has been sitting in temperatures of 100 degrees. Martz says they do not send a bus on the road without a working air conditioner.
July 8, 2010
The dry conditions have convinced one community in our area to ban burning. Effective immediately all outdoor burning is banned in Stroud Township. The ban was issued by an order from Stroud Township Supervisors and the fire chief today. Outdoor cooking on a gas grill or other similar appliance is not effected by that ban.
July 8, 2010
The DEP is cracking down on a Pocono Summit private community's sewer system. Residents in Stillwater Lakes say they've seen raw sewage pour out of manhole covers and into nearby creeks and streams. Officials at Stillwater Lakes would not comment on their sewer system. The DEP has ordered the board to submit plans on how they are going to fix their system by July 15th...
July 8, 2010
A major street widening project in Lehman Township benefits the municipality in another way. As construction crews blast through rock, cut down tree's and move utility poles to make room to widen route 2001 in Lehman Township, they're left with tons and tons of rock fill. So the supervisors along with Leeward Construction came up with a way to rid of it. A ten acre property owned by the Township off 01, is now getting leveled for free. Supervisors hope in the future a business will be able to build on the property. Ideas include a bank or a possible site for a future police station.
July 8, 2010
A man who pled guilty to murder 17 years ago is back in Monroe County Court, now saying he is innocent.
38-year-old Gary Gerber had his first day of trial today. He is charged with the brutal killing of Robert Hagan in Hamilton Township in August of 1993. A state police investigator who processed that crime scene nearly two decades ago testified all day, showing jurors graphic photos taken of Hagan’s body the morning he was found. Police say someone slit Hagan’s throat then ran over his body with his own car. Gerber is claiming to be innocent, saying he was forced to plead guilty after his arrest in 2006. The trial resumes tomorrow.
July 7, 2010
A proposal to build a fuel storage facility in part of Pike County is apparently on hold. Representatives from the Airline Petroleum Company approached Blooming Grove Township officials last month about building the facility on a site off Madden Road. The company had scheduled a meeting with supervisors for next Wednesday but that meeting has now been postponed. Airline petroleum was proposing to build two 20-thousand gallon underground oil storage tanks and one above ground 30-thousand gallon propane tank at that site.
July 7, 2010
Jackson Township officials have take a Reeders night club back to court. Thrills Manager Ira Weiner and town officials were back in court Tuesday in front of President Judge Ronald Vican. An undercover investigator testified yesterday lap dances have not stopped-- and the dancers are now totally nude-- but no touching was allowed. Last month Vican granted the township a temporary injunction against the club because the court believed thrills was operating as an adult cabaret. The township is seeking a permanent injunction against thrills. The hearing has not yet been completed and has been postponed to a later date.
July 7, 2010
Local leaders are reacting to three people being killed on Route 33 in less than two weeks. Monroe County Commissioner Janet Weidensaul and State Representatives Mario Scavello and John Siptroth say more road improvements are needed but drivers need to also slow down. Stimulus dollars are being used to construct a double guardrail on Route 33 from Bartonsville to Windgap. The latest accident happened this past Monday. A 21-year-old man was killed.
July 7, 2010
A former Mahoning Township police officer is on the wrong side of the law again. Marvin Mertz has been on suspension since 2008 for falsifying documents and covering up two car accidents. According to court documents, back in March Mertz had re-submitted to the NRA an application to be re-certified as a firearms instructor. NRA officials became suspicious of spaces that were left blank. Court documents also indicate Mertz claimed he had attended certification courses with the Bethlehem Police Department in 2008. But according to a police official, he did not and some of the courses weren't even held on the dates Mertz claimed. Today, Mertz attended the hearing without his attorney. He waived his right to a preliminary hearing. He'll have a pre-trial hearing on August 12th.
July 7, 2010
Massive clean up efforts are still ongoing in the Gulf States as oil continues to gush out of the blown out BP Deep Horizon well. Thousands of miles of containment booms are protecting the delicate marshes. Inside the booms are material from a Monroe County facility-Monadnock Non-Wovens. The factory produces about 15 percent scrap material which are super absorbant--and perfect for cleaning up oil. The manager says he's glad a company from Monroe County can aid in the clean up efforts...
July 7, 2010
Weeks without a good rainfaill and our current heat wave have some area towns worried about outdoor burning. The Mayor of Bowmanstown issued a burn ban for the entire borough starting today. No one is permitted to burn at any time for the next week. If that changes, the borough will make an announcement. The Carbon County Communications Center also has Lower Towamensing Township listed under a burn ban. If you're not sure if you can burn, check with your local municipal office.
July 7, 2010
It's day number three of scorching temperatures reaching into the 90's. For those who work outside its been an exhausting week to say the least, and when your working with asphalt things tend to get even hotter. The crew from Joseph's Asphalt is thankful today their just preparing the ground for paving. But if the heat sticks around until tomorrow, they say its going to be a difficult day. Workers , for once, are actually hoping for rain - so things start to cool down just a little.
July 7, 2010
A Nesquehoning woman is dead after a one car crash last night on Route 54. It happened around 6:15. According to the Carbon County Coroner, 42-year old Tara Cusanelli was ejected from her car near the Ametek Plastics Company. Cusanelli lost control of her car, went off the road, hit an embankment and rolled the car. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police shut down the road while a reconstruction team was brought in. The coroner has ruled her death an accident due to injuries she received in the crash.
July 6, 2010
State police in Wayne County say people may have problems reaching them by phone tonight. Phone calls to the Honesdale barracks may not go through. Anyone who can't reach the station can contact the Wayne County Communications Center at 570-253-3109 or by dialing 9-1-1.
July 6, 2010
A long holiday weekend has taken a toll on some recycling sites in Monroe County. News 13 visited a drop off location along Route 611 in Swiftwater Monday night and found bags of items left all over the facility. Officials with the Monroe County Municipal Waste Management authority say collections have returned to a normal schedule. They want to remind residents that if containers are full they should not overfill the containers or leave materials around the recycling site. They say that is considered dumping and violators can be prosecuted.
July 6, 2010
Jury selection is expected to begin tomorrow for a man accused of a stabbing death last fall in long pond. 30 year old Philip Vonville is charged with the death of 19-year-old Christopher Hernandez last September. it happened at the Pocono Plateau Park just off Route 115. Police say Vonville stabbed Hernandez because he was apparently upset over breaking up with a girlfriend who lived at the home. Hernandez had come to the home to wish the woman luck before she enlisted in the military. Vonville's trial is expected to begin sometime next week.
And jury selection is expected to get underway tomorrow for a Luzerne County man who has been granted a new trial on murder charges. Three years ago 38-year old Gary Gerber was charged with the 1993 stabbing death of Robert Hagan of New Jersey. Hagan's body was found along Rimrock Road in Hamilton Township. Police say he had also been run over by a car. Gerber was originally set to go to trial in 2008 but his attorney died two weeks before testimony was set to begin. Gerber plead guilty at the last minute and was sentenced to 10-years in prison. He later changed his mind and asked for a new trial. That request was granted and testimony in his case is now expected to begin sometime next week.
July 6, 2010
A Scranton man charged with intentionally ramming a building with his car in Honesdale waived his right to a hearing before a district justice today. Honesdale borough police say 36-year old Donald Klick drove his car into the Fritz Brothers Well Drilling building May 30th. Klick had apparently been involved in a dispute with a woman in the car moments before the crash. Police say he drove over a sidewalk, through a parking lot and hit the building without braking. He will now face a trial on aggravated assault, D-U-I and other charges.
July 6, 2010
A Monroe County woman faces charges after police say she intentionally hit her boyfriend with a car as he was walking into a police station. It happened yesterday at the Barrett Township Police Station on Route 390. Officers say 31-year old Jasmine Ackerman of Cresco struck her boyfriend with a car as he was walking into the building. Officers report hearing the man yell for help as he ran to the door. Police went to Ackerman’s home and found the car with moderate damage to the front hood and windshield. Police say Ackerman did not have a driver's licenses. She faces aggravated assault - D-U-I - and other charges as a result of the incident.
July 6, 2010
Authorities have identified a man killed in a crash yesterday on Route 33 in Monroe County. The coroner’s office says 21-year old Paul Miller Junior of Scranton died when his car was struck by a large truck near the Saylorsburg exit. 16 other people were injured when the truck hit a conversion van. Police are identifying the driver of the large box truck as 28-year old Jaswinder Singh of New Jersey. They are not saying if any charges will be filed as a result of the crash.
July 6, 2010
Due to the lack of rainfall, The Walnutport Authority is restricting water use. All water customers are requested to immediately cease unnecessary outdoor water use - that includes watering lawns, washing cars, and topping off pools. Vegetable gardens and flowers may be watered with a hand held sprinkling can only. The borough believes they have enough water but they're being cautious until they can get new water sources from the state. The Walnutport Authority asks customers to comply until further notice. Failure to do so could result in fines or termination of water service. They'll notify customers when the restriction changes.
July 6, 2010
Limited transportation and no official cooling stations may make beating the heat particularly hard on senior citizens in Monroe County.
Many do not have air conditioning in their homes but there's a place for residents over 60 to escape. The Loder House in East Stroudsburg is a community center that turns into a cool meeting place on extremely hot days. Ice water, ice cream and lunch are provided free of charge. A 24 hour reservation is required to have lunch but activities, snacks, and refreshments are available to people who walk in. For more information call 570-420-3745.
July 6, 2010
It's estimated that 1 in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism and doctors are seeing more cases every year. But now, the Palmerton area has a new center tailor-made for children with enhanced autism. The rooms were renovated to meet the needs of these special children. Classrooms have two "break-rooms" with padded walls and floors. There are also separate teaching stations and dimmable lights only teachers can adjust. Down the hall is a sensory room for free time and activities. There's also a shower and kitchen. The walls have been constructed of dent resistant materials. The program strives to get students transitioned back into school within a year. Sometimes that happens in shorter or longer amounts of time.
July 6, 2010
More options are being thrown on the table for a new library headquarters in Pike County. After entering into negotiations with the Biondo Foundation for an existing building in Milford, some members are second guessing that location. Today a local builder came to the library board with estimates to construct a brand new facility on the piece of property on Harford Street. But the library board would have to raise about half a million dollars to cover all the costs. Time is not on the library's side, the two million dollars worth of state grants expire in 2011. They say they need to come up with a decision and move forward on something within the next couple months.
July 5, 2010
The hot and dry weather we've had for the last few days is great for hitting the pool. It's not good for raising certain crops. Weeks have passed since the area's had a steady rain fall. Robin Cressley, owner of Cressley's Greenhouse and Produce Farm, says most of his crops were ahead of schedule this year. The hot, dry days are affecting his most important crop, corn. If rains don't arrive in the next week he could loose a large amount of his crop.
July 5, 2010
State police are investigating a fatal crash in Saylorsburg.
A man driving a tractor-trailer truck southbound on Route 33 this morning somehow lost control and crossed into the northbound lanes. The big rig hit a sedan and passenger van head on. The driver of the sedan is dead and 10 van passengers seriously injured. An eyewitness at the scene says he tried to assist a 7 year-old girl and a pregnant woman injured. Several of those victims are being treated at nearby hospitals but police are not releasing any of their identities. Its not clear what caused the crash.
July 5, 2010
Police in Pike County are looking for a man who tried to grab a woman as she was jogging. It happened Friday night along Greeley lake road in Lackawaxen Township. The victim tells police the suspect began jogging beside her and tried to grab her. She yelled and he ran away when a car drove by. Police say the victim is a woman in her 30's and the suspect is a white male approximately 20-years old. He stood about five ten and had dark blond or brown hair. He was wearing a black hoodie with the hood up over his head. Anyone with information about that incident should contact State Police at Blooming Grove 570-226-5718.
July 5, 2010
Beltzville Park Rangers closed the gates when they reached full capacity at 9:15 yesterday morning -- gates remained closed until 5 o'clock. Visitors tried to park along local roads and walk in -- some even trekked a couple of miles to the park. Franklin Township Police, State Police and park rangers directed traffic and even had vehicles parked along area roadways towed.
July 5, 2010
A Mahoning Township man is dead after being injured while trying to fix a truck on a farm yesterday. It happened in a field along Grist Mill Road. Police say 71-year old Ronald Blocker was helping his son-in-law with a mechanical problem on a truck's transmission. Blocker crawled under the vehicle to work on it -- the truck jumped out of gear and ran him over. The son-in-law put the truck in reverse to get it off Blocker and then called 9-1-1. A Carbon County coroner pronounced Blocker dead at the scene. He has ruled the death an accident.
July 5, 2010
The picture perfect Fourth of July weekend brought thousands to the Poconos to enjoy one of America's favorite past times: Camping! The heat didn't stop hundreds of campers from invading Kitattinny Canoes in Westfall Township this weekend. In fact, as the week went on and forecasters predicted temperatures in the 90's, business kicked into high gear. All 160 campsites were booked solid and the phones still haven't stopped ringing for trips down the river. Although campers were packing up and heading home today, Owner Ruth Jones says this was the most profitable holiday weekends this year.
July 2, 2010
An autopsy is scheduled today to determine how a Lansford woman died. The Carbon County Coroner says the body of 38-year old Diane McArdle was discovered yesterday afternoon. Someone went to her home on West Water Street to check on her. Authorities believe she may have been dead several weeks.
July 2, 2010
Good news for anyone looking to beat the heat this weekend in Tobyhanna. Water samples have cleared the beach to reopen at Tobyhanna State Park. The beach closed Wednesday after coliform bacteria was found in a water sample. The water was tested again. The new test did not show high levels of bacteria. The beach reopened this morning. Park managers say they're looking forward to a good weekend with plenty of people picnicking, fishing and swimming at Tobyhanna State Park.
July 2, 2010
State police in Wayne County are investigating a case of vandalism at a natural gas well site. The site is along Route 1016 locally called Calicoon Road. News 13 wasn't allowed access to the area in Damascus Township. Guards are patrolling the area. The natural gas well is being drilled by the Newfield Appalachia Company. This is a picture of drilling rig that has been used in other parts of Wayne County. Vandals attempted to damage an erosion and sedimentation control system being used at the well.
July 2, 2010
Police say a man who exposed himself an attacked a teen is facing charges in Monroe County. 48-year old David Reinhardt of East Stroudsburg was arrested after the incident yesterday at a home in Price Township. Police tell us Reinhardt was hired to paint in the home. Officers say he approached the 17-year old victim in her bedroom - exposed himself and had indecent contact with her. The victim forced Reinhardt out of her room and he fled the home. Reinhardt was later arrested and released on 25-thousand dollars bail.
July 2, 2010
Police have arrested a fourteen year old boy for a robbery yesterday in Mount Pocono - and the adult linked to helping plan the crime. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the teen used a pellet gun to hold up the Tobacco Outlet along Pocono Boulevard yesterday. He fled on a bicycle after the crime. According to police the teen was also involved in an attempted purse snatching and had been asked to leave the P-N-C bank after acting suspiciously. Officers found the teen with two other juveniles at a home on Fairview Avenue. He was taken into custody on robbery charges. Police also charged 31-year old Jeremy Goodson with telling the teen to commit the robbery and planning the crime. Goodson is in the Monroe county jail tonight. Bail is set at 50-thousand dollars.
July 2, 2010
Police have identified human remains discovered by a homeowner in Hamilton Township. This is video of authorities removing the body of 61-year-old Walter Powe from a wooded area off Polk Valley Road yesterday morning. The decomposing remains were found by a woman walking her dog. State troopers handling the investigation say Powe has been dead for at least several weeks, and they do not think the death is suspicious. Powe's last address is not known and police have not been able to locate his next of kin. Anyone with information is asked to call Swiftwater State Police 570-839-7701
July 2, 2010
The Fourth of July can be a fun and exciting holiday but before you light those fireworks you should take note of a few warnings. According to the Centers For Disease Control, July 4th weekend is when nearly 75-percent of all injuries related to fireworks happen. But emergency officials at the Pocono Medical Center say they will be fully staffed and ready. Young people are most at risk for injury but Dr. Bean, an MD in the ER at PMC says patients can range in age. The most common cases involve burns and eye injuries. Dr. Bean says fireworks are safest when handled by a professional.
July 2, 2010
Businesses across the Poconos are gearing up for what's expected to be the busiest holiday weekend of the year. With an almost perfect forecast in store for the July Fourth holiday weekend, officials are expecting thousands to flock to Lake Wallenpaupack. Its only July 2nd, but already boat launches and businesses have already seen a major increase in traffic and sales. The Lake Wallenpaupack fire works show is expected to start around nine o'clock Sunday night.
July 2, 2010
Saturday July 3rd
Honesdale
Fireworks start at dusk
Music Food and Games Central Park
Camelbeach Waterpark
Live Entertainment/Music
Fireworks start at 9:30
Cost: $10 per Car
Donations benefit Pocono Fire Co.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area
Hollow Road
Fireworks start at 9pm
Cost $10 per carload
proceeds benefit the Shawnee Volunteer Fire Co.
Skytop Lodge
Barrett Township
Route 390 and Dutch Hill Road
Fireworks start at 9:15pm
North Pocono School,
Route 690, Moscow
Fireworks start at 9:30
Mount Airy Casino Resort
Mount Pocono
Fireworks start at 9:30pm
Sunday July 4th
Lake Wallenpaupack
Pike and Wayne Counties
Fireworks start at 9:15 (Dusk)
Lake Ariel
Fireworks at the beach
Fireworks start at dusk
East Stroudsburg American Freedom Festival
Dansbury Park
Fireworks start at 9:15
July 2, 2010
A Towamensing Township man is flown to the hospital after his ATV is hit by a car. It happened last night along Route 209. Police say 67-year old Richard Hall was trying to cross Route 209 from Raymond Street when his ATV was hit by a car. Hall suffered lacerations including a severe inury to his foot. He was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital where he is listed in good condition. The female driver of the car was not hurt.
July 2, 2010
4th of July Celebrations:
Friday, July 2nd
10:30 p.m. Cement Belt Fair Fireworks
Cementon, Whitehall Township
Saturday, July 3rd
10:00 a.m. Northern Lehigh Heritage Day Celebration
First Baptist Church, Slatington
10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Jim Thorpe Stay-at-Home Festival
Jim Thorpe Memorial Park, Fireworks at 10 p.m.
All Day Lehighton Independence Day Celebration, Throughout the borough
Sunday, July 4th
1:00 Lehighton Independent Day Parade
Festivities all day throughout borough
Fireworks at 10 p.m.
5 p.m. Allentown 4th of July Celebration
J. Birney Crum Stadium, Fireworks at 9 p.m.
7:30 p.m. Bethlehem 4th of July Celebration Sand Island, Fireworks at 9 p.m.
After the Iron Pigs Baseball, Coca Cola Park 3-D fireworks extravaganza
9:30 p.m. Dorney Park Fireworks
South Whitehall Township
July 1, 2010
Weatherwood is officially out of Carbon County's hands. As of this morning, Guardian Elder Care is the nursing home's new owner. Guardian Elder Care's chairman, Ray Calhoun, acknowledges that there's plenty of work to do over the next few months. Getting the home financially stable and bringing up occupancy numbers are primary concerns. Guardian hopes to make the transition as smooth as possible. It hopes to fill the facility within the next few months.
July 1, 2010
Police are searching for a man who held up a tobacco store today in Mount Pocono. It happened just before noon at the tobacco outlet along Pocono Boulevard. The suspect is described as a white male - possibly between the ages of 16 and 18. He had a hand-gun and was wearing a tan jacket. Police officers searched the area with a k-9 unit after the robbery. Pocono Mountain Regional Police are investigating.
July 1, 2010
A man wanted on stabbing charges in Monroe county is apprehended and released after a hearing... State Police at Lehighton reported they were searching for 30-year old Jose Hernandez - Tirado of Saylorsburg in connection with a stabbing june 6th on Greenzweig Drive in Eldred Township. He was later caught. Hernandez-Tirado faces two felony counts of aggravated assault. He waived his right to a hearing this week and was released on 25-thousand dollars bail.
July 1, 2010
Police are investigating the theft of fireworks worth ten thousand dollars from a store in Monroe County. The owner of Bada Boom Fireworks along Route 115 in Blakeslee tells police someone took the fireworks Tuesday. The theft happened sometime overnight. The thieves broke into a trailer which was stored behind the building. Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Pocono Mountain Regional Police.
July 1, 2010
Police are also searching for a man who apparently exposed himself to two teens. It happened on old Route 940 near the Tobyhanna Elementary Center Tuesday afternoon. A 15 year old girl and a 14 year old boy tell police a man stopped his car and started talking to them. As the girl stepped to the window - the man exposed himself. The two ran to the nearby Clymer Library and called police. Officers say the suspect was driving a maroon S-U-V. Pocono Mountain Regional Police are investigating.
July 1, 2010
The former Director of the Lehigh County Bureau of Collections is charged with taking $3,000 from the county. 41-year-old Cathy Ann Sievert of Slatington was arraigned Tuesday and released on $25,000 unsecured bail. Lehigh County detectives say an investigation last August revealed that Sievert had altered a check for $2,000, and had removed cash from the adult probation collections account. Sievert was terminated from her job on August 20th.
July 1, 2010
On May 25, Scott Mackelvey was under the influence of alcohol when he stole three different vehicles and attempted to steal another. The last vehicle was from a home in the Wildcat Development in Walker Township. The 41-year old rammed police officers with the pick up as they tried several times to get Mackelvey out of the truck but he refused. Two state police officers and one Saint Clair officer shot at Mackelvey killing him. Since that fatal shooting the Schuylkill County District Attorney James Goodman had been investigating whether the deadly force was justified. Today Goodman believes the officers did their job and they were justified in using deadly force.
July 1, 2010
Police are working to identify a man whose body was found by a homeowner in Hamilton Township. The woman discovered the remains just after 6 am Thursday, while walking her dog in the woods behind her home on Polk Valley Road. Authorities used a four wheeler to remove the body but say they found no evidence pointing to who the man is and they don't know how he got there.
The body was badly decomposed; officials believe the man died several weeks ago. A backpack with personal belongings was also found. A deputy coroner involved in the investigation says he may be African-American. An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death. For now it’s not considered suspicious.
July 1, 2010
Businesses in one part of pike county are relieved that a bridge under construction has reopened to two way traffic. back in april, construction started on the matamoras bridge to bring the over 100 year old structure up to code. but in order for crews to get their job done, the bridge closed down to one way traffic, creating a huge detour for motorists. that new traffic pattern did a lot of damage to local businesses. but after the bridge opened back up last night, things quickly turned around. officials say the bridge project is on schedule and should be finished this fall.
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