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Stroudsburg man is busted week after Sister's Dogs euthanized
A Stroudsburg man remains free on $10-thousand dollars bail following a drug bust on Wednesday. Stroud Area Regional Police and members of the Monroe County Drug Task Force used a search warrant at a home at North First and Garfield Streets and arrested Ray Staples III. Officers confiscated 23 grams of crack cocaine, and now he faces Drug Possession and Possession with Intent to Deliver charges. Police say this is the same home where they located two dogs that had been deemed dangerous last week. The bleeding dogs, who had been shot by police, were found on the front porch. Their owner, 22-year old Tiffani Staples, now faces charges for violating dog laws.
Water in short supply in East Stroudsburg; Drought Warning
If you live in East Stroudsburg, borough officials would like you to cut back on your water usage by at least 10 to 15-percent. On Wednesday, Borough Manager Jim Phillips said they’ve issued a drought warning. Phillips says the borough’s reservoir in Middle Smithfield Township is currently holding about a 185-million gallons, which is little over half of its’ total capacity. Phillips says the warning could be intensified, and higher percentage cutback could be recommended if substantial rainfall doesn’t come our way.
Bookkeeper at Pocono MRI pleads guilty to check theft scheme
A bookkeeper accused of stealing over 120-thousand dollars from his employer, has waived his preliminary hearing this week on forgery, theft and related charges to Monroe County Court. Fifty-year old Rajkumar Nichani of Easton allegedly stole the money from Pocono MRI in Smithfield Township over the last year. Following his arrest by Monroe County Detectives, Nichani confessed to copying 38 company checks with his boss' signature, and then cashing and depositing them his personal bank account. He is the second bookkeeper arrested at Pocono MRI within the last month. The other man, from Mount Pocono, is accused of stealing more than $90-thousand dollars in a similar scheme.
Note whips Stroudsburg woman into a frenzy on Husband
A Stroudsburg woman remains jailed after police say she allegedly hit her husband in the head and groin with a crowbar. Stroud Area Regional Police arrested 61-year old Dale Morris following a domestic dispute a few days ago. She now faces aggravated assault, simple assault and reckless endangerment charges. Police say Morris apparently was upset over a note she found from her husband, however they wouldn’t disclose what was written in the note. She is being held in lieu of $10-thousand dollars bail.
Local Sexual Offenders get locked up
The Monroe County District Attorney's office says it will continue to seek harsh penalties for sexually violent predators here in the Pocono region. On Monday, two convicted sex offenders were given lengthy sentences in state prison. A county jury convicted 57-year-old Ray Kemmerer in May for having sexual contact with a six-year old boy. He’ll be locked up for many years in a state penitentiary, while 28-year old Julio Santiago of Mount Pocono will spend up to 13 years behind bars for having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl. Police said he also forced the girl to sell drugs for him.
It’s been a wild couple of mornings on major Pocono roadways…
Earlier this (Fri.) morning a tractor-trailer driver from Texas slammed into a slowing line of traffic in the bridge construction zone along I-80 eastbound in Tannersville causing both lanes of travel to be closed down until just before five this morning. No one was injured in the crash but the back up lasted well into the 7 o’clock hour. Everything should be running normally now…and don’t forget the Dreher Ave exit of I-80 WB is being paved until 6 this evening. Use exit 305 – Main Street as a detour.
A crash involving a trailer hauling about 200 live sheep and goats into New Jersey brought I-80 EB traffic to a standstill for more than five hours Thursday morning. DWG, Route 209 and 611 in Smithfield and Stroud Townships were a congested mess. No one was hurt in that accident, but a few sheep did stray into the woods of Warren County.
Another crash along I-80 westbound not long after the sheep truck accident, claimed the life of a 25-year old Wilkes-Barre man. State Police say Abdul Charles lost control just before 6:30 Thursday morning in Tobyhanna Township. His vehicle traveled off the road, spun around and slammed broadside into a tree. He died at the scene.
… and a few hours before that mishap, a construction vehicle pulled into the path of another car traveling in the southbound construction lanes along Route 33 in Hamilton Township. The impact sent the car off the road and down a steep embankment, causing minor injuries to Darnell and Candace Paige of East Stroudsburg. They were treated at the Pocono Medical Center.
So, please be extra careful out there, especially in the construction zones, all along Routes 80 and 33…
A second Pocono MRI bookkeeping employee arrested for Theft
Another employee at an area MRI facility has been arrested for allegedly stealing lots of money as the company's bookkeeper. Monroe County detectives arrested 50-year old RAJKUMAR NICHANI of Easton earlier today (Thurs.) for allegedly embezzling more than $120-thousand dollars from Pocono MRI in Smithfield Township. Court documents say he used a copy machine to forge 37 checks that contained the business owner's signature. Following his arraignment he was released on $10-thousand dollars bail. Nichani is the second bookkeeper at Pocono MRI in the last two weeks to be charged with theft and related offenses. County detectives arrested Rohen Desai of Mount Pocono earlier this month for allegedly taking more than $90-thousand dollars. Investigators say the men were working together in this embezzlement scheme.
PPL Electric Utilities agrees to lower rate request for 2011
A settlement agreement filed today (Thurs.) with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission would increase PPL Electric Utilities’ overall annual revenues by about $77.5 million dollars, or 1.6 percent, beginning Jan. 1st, 2011. The increase will allow the company to begin recovering the cost of nearly three years of distribution system improvements. In addition, it will improve the company’s ability to attract capital funding for ongoing efforts to replace aging infrastructure and to maintain excellent reliability for customers. The increase proposed in the settlement agreement still must be approved by an administrative law judge and the commission.
Marshalls Creek Bypass project entering Final Phase
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reps and area elected officials have broken ground on the third and final stage of the Route 209 Marshalls Creek Traffic Relief Project. District Executive Michael Rebert says it's been a long process getting to this point, but he was glad to break ground on Stage Three on Wednesday. He says this project will reduce traffic congestion and improve safety on Business 209 and Route 209 through the Marshalls Creek area. Stage Three improvements include relocating Route 209 as a two lane highway around the Village of Marshalls Creek, and making intersection improvements on several secondary roads in Smithfield and Middle Smithfield townships. The $18.2-million dollar project is expected to be completed in October 2012. The Marshalls Creek Bypass project first the hitting drawing board in 1991.
Dangerous Dogs taken down in East Stroudsburg; Owner to be charged
Stroud Area Regional Police shot the two dogs believed to be the ones that terrorized pets, deer and people in East Stroudsburg and Stroudsburg over the last week. This weekend, police issued a warning about two vicious dogs, described as Pit-Bull/Boxer mixes that killed at least six cats and a deer near East Stroudsburg High School South. They also charged at a police officer. After receiving a phone tip from a resident this (Tues.) morning, officers located the dogs (a male and female) running along the dike toward the Interboro/Veterans Memorial Bridge, and fired several shots that hit both of them. Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says officers followed a blood trail that led them to the owner, as the injured dogs returned to her front porch on First Street in Stroudsburg. The dogs were taken to a veterinarian for treatment, but were later euthanized. Lieutenant Kimmins says after meeting with Dog Warden George Nixon, they will charge 22-year old Tiffany Staples with several summary offenses and dog law violations. Staples and her family told reporters police shot the wrong dogs, and that Candy and Osi were friendly, family dogs who played with the children in the neighborhood.
Jeffrey Pliska acquitted in Pocono Camp Counselor murder
A Virginia man accused of killing a camp counselor here in the Poconos nearly 20 years ago was acquitted Tuesday. After deliberating for less than four hours, jurors decided that 47-year old Jeffrey Plishka was not guilty in the slaying of Laura Ronning in Dyberry Township, Wayne County. Police say Ronning, a 24-year old Florida resident, was a counselor at Camp Cayuga when she disappeared on July 27, 1991, while walking to Tanner's Falls, near Honesdale. Her body was discovered the next morning, and investigators determined she was sexually assaulted and then shot to death. Ronning’s mother Pat Gicking, said “this man is guilty”, as she left the courtroom. "He killed my daughter and he's getting away with it, so we're going home." The defense argued there wasn't enough evidence to convict Plishka and sought to shift blame to two unknown men seen flirting with Ronning a few days earlier. Plishka was released from custody after yesterday’s verdict, and left the courthouse with his father, Metropolitan Opera singer Paul Plishka, and stepmother.
West Nile Mosquito found in South Stroudsburg
The latest round of mosquito trapping here in the Pocono region has turned up a mosquito carrying the West Nile Virus. Mike Pula of the Monroe County Vector Control Office says the mosquito that tested positive was found in a sample collected last week off the Park Avenue exit of Interstate 80 in South Stroudsburg. County officials advise residents to take the normal precautions against West Nile Virus -- which include avoiding contact with mosquitoes (which is usually at dawn and dusk) and eliminating areas of standing water where these mosquitoes can breed. Across the Delaware River, a mosquito collected in Hope, New Jersey in Warren County tested positive for the West Nile Virus. Seventeen other counties in New Jersey also report positive mosquito samples. The good news ? There have been no reports of humans contracting (infected with) West Nile Virus in our listening area.
Blakeslee man dies after his pick-up crashes into a power pole
A one vehicle crash in the West End claims the life of a Blakeslee man. State Police say 44-year old Michael Otting was traveling on Toll Road, just south of Lakeside Drive in Chestnuthill Township last (Thurs.) night, when his pick-up left the road (for an unknown reason) and slammed into a utility pole. The impact sent the truck into a dirt embankment, before it rolled over and came to rest upside down in a ditch. Troopers say Otting had to be removed from the cab by emergency crews, but he died a short time later at Pocono Medical Center. Police say he wasn't wearing a seatbelt and the airbag did not deploy. The investigation continues.
Watch out for Counterfeit $100 Bills circulating in the area
Stroudsburg Area Regional Police are trying to locate a group of local counterfeiters. Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says four people were caught on surveillance tape using the fake $100 bills this month to purchase over three-thousand dollars worth of merchandise from two area stores. Kimmins says all the counterfeit bills were marked with the year 1999, and contained at least five different serial numbers. Kimmins says four men and one woman are considered suspects…and some of the suspects were seen riding in a Blue, Jeep Liberty. If you have any information on these people, or this counterfeit activity, call 570-421-6800.
Penn Dot scales back 12-year plan - Monroe bridges impacted; and I-84
The Pa. Department of Transportation is cutting back its 12-year plan…and that will affect several local projects. On Thursday, Penn Dot approved an update of its 12-Year Transportation Program that reflects an expected 24-percent reduction in funding - from $67.9-billion to $51.6-billion dollars - for improvements to highways, bridges, transit, aviation and rail freight systems. Under this new plan, seven Monroe County bridges won’t be replaced, or repaired, and the reconstruction of Interstate 84, from Route 390 to Route 739 in Pike County, will not occur. Penn Dot Secretary Allen Biehler says uncertainty about the future direction of federal funds, along with inflation and the lack of additional resources, has forced this latest squeeze to the program. Congress has yet to enact a new six-year authorization bill to pay for transportation programs in Pennsylvania and across the nation.
Lots of heroin confiscated during Toby Twp. traffic stop
A traffic stop leads two people to jail. Pocono Mountain Regional Police pulled over a car early Wednesday morning in Tobyhanna Township. Officers say they eventually found 600-bags of heroin in the car they pulled over along Sullivan Trail. After talking with 27-year old Roger Lebrum-Williams and 23-year old passenger, Amber Brannon, police brought in a drug-sniffing dog which found 12 bricks of heroin in the trunk. Two thousand dollars cash was also located inside the car. Lebrum-Williams and Brannon now face Drug Possession and related charges.
Homicide by Vehicle charges now filed for Motorcycle accident victim death
A local man now faces Homicide by Vehicle charges for allegedly running over an injured motorcyclist and killing in Middle Smithfield Township. State Police say 30-year-old Benjamin Warner was intoxicated when he killed Nathan King and injured a good Samaritan back on July 29th. Troopers say Warner also struck Robert Scotko who had stopped to help the injured motorcycle rider. Scotko suffered a badly broken leg. Warner is also charged with Involuntary Manslaughter. He is jailed in lieu of $200-thousand dollars bail at the MCCF. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 1st.
Greenview Drive Bridge FINALLY re-open to traffic
After two years, and a lengthy detour, the Greenview Drive Bridge in Sciota is now open to traffic. Penn Dot closed the bridge in May of 2008 due to structural damage, and used $900-thousand dollars to replace the span that was built back in 1920. The concrete structure is still only one lane, but it now has improved roadway approaches and better drainage. Speaking of bridges, Penn Dot has removed the 11-ton weight restriction on the Route 534 Bridge over Swamp Run in Kidder Township, Carbon County. The weight limit took effect in March because of deteriorating support beams. Those beams are now reinforced and the steel I-beam bridge is structurally sound.
Man impersonates a police officer and stops woman near Blakeslee
Pocono Mountain Regional Police are searching for a man they say was impersonating a police officer at a community in western Monroe County. Police say the suspect stopped a woman in the Indian Mountain Lakes Development on Saturday. It happened at the intersection of Elmwood Drive and Evergreen Road. He was wearing clothing that looked similar to an officer's uniform but he wasn't a police or Indian Mountain Lakes security officer. The victim says the man is a clean-shaven white male, 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 find him you are asked to contact Pocono Mountain Regional at 570-895-2400.
PMRP bust two teens for drugs and weapons in Coolbaugh Township
Pocono Mountain Regional Police continue their crackdown on local drug activity. Police executed a pair of search warrants on two locations in Coolbaugh Township this week, and now two young men sit in the Monroe County Correctional Facility on high bail. Police searched a home in Pocono Farms and arrested 19-year old Victor Tello, and 19-year Ronald Smith, who they found hiding in a closet. Officers say they confiscated a large amount of marijuana, and several smaller packages of pot that was ready for street sale, along with a digital scale, more than $16-hundred dollars in cash and a 9-millimeter hand gun. Tello and Smith now face Drug Trafficking, Drug Possession and Criminal Conspiracy charges at a preliminary hearing next week.
Barrett Deli burglary suspect in custody and sitting in the MCCF
Barrett Township Police have charged a Canadensis man with stealing cash from the Mountainhome Deli last week. Chief Steve Williams says the burglary occurred shortly after the deli closed (last) Thursday afternoon. Police say they received a call about a suspicious person near the CVS Pharmacy soon after the deli break in, and arrested 45-year old Darryl Fahy on his bicycle. Williams said Fahy had over 700-dollars in cash, and the cash register keys, in his pockets when they stopped him. He remains jailed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $40-thousand dollars bail.
Coolbaugh Twp. bust nets lots of marijuana, cash and a weapon
Pocono Mountain Regional Police continue their crackdown on local drug activity. Police executed a pair of search warrants on two locations in Coolbaugh Township this week, and now two young men sit in the Monroe County Correctional Facility on high bail. Police searched a home in Pocono Farms and arrested 19-year old Victor Tello, and 19-year Ronald Smith, who they found hiding in a closet. Officers say they confiscated a large amount of marijuana, and several smaller packages of pot that was ready for street sale, along with a digital scale, more than $16-hundred dollars in cash and a 9-millimeter hand gun. Tello and Smith now face Drug Trafficking, Drug Possession and Criminal Conspiracy charges at a preliminary hearing next week.
Man arrested for Barrett Twp. Deli burglary
Barrett Township Police have charged a Canadensis man with stealing cash from the Mountainhome Deli last week. Chief Steve Williams says the burglary occurred shortly after the deli closed (last) Thursday afternoon. Police say they received a call about a suspicious person near the CVS Pharmacy soon after the deli break in, and arrested 45-year old Darryl Fahy on his bicycle. Williams said Fahy had over 700-dollars in cash, and the cash register keys, in his pockets when they stopped him. He remains jailed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $40-thousand dollars bail.
Jury selection continues in Poconos Camp Counselor death trial
There’s another day of jury selection on tap today in Wayne County for the murder trial of 46-year old Jeffrey Pliska. So far, five jurors have been selected at the county courthouse since Monday. Plishka is facing the death penalty for allegedly killing camp counselor Laura Ronning in 1991. State police say Ronning was sexually assaulted, then shot to death near Tanners Falls in Dyberry Township. Investigators charged Plishka last year with the crime. Twelve jurors and four alternates must be picked before his trial can get underway.
DeNaples wanted for not paying back taxes
The former owner of Mount Airy Casino Resort owes $2.3 million in back taxes. The money reportedly is owed on a settlement Louis DeNaples and his brother, Dominick, received from Penn Dot over land seized for the Casey Highway construction project in Lackawanna County. Both brothers owe $2.3 million each, covering the tax years of 2003, 2004 and 2005. The DeNaples' reportedly argued that some of the interest from the settlement should have been tax exempt.
Greenview Drive Bridge now open to traffic
After two years, and a lengthy detour, the Greenview Drive Bridge in Sciota is now open to traffic. Penn Dot closed the bridge in May of 2008 due to structural damage, and used $900-thousand dollars to replace the span that was built back in 1920. The concrete structure is still only one lane, but it now has improved roadway approaches and better drainage. Speaking of bridges, Penn Dot has removed the 11-ton weight restriction on the Route 534 Bridge over Swamp Run in Kidder Township, Carbon County. The weight limit took effect in March because of deteriorating support beams. Those beams are now reinforced and the steel I-beam bridge is structurally sound.
Popular Businessman, former Commissioner passes away at age 84
Longtime Monroe County businessman and former county commissioner Jack Parker, Sr. has passed away. Parker, who started Parker Oil Company with his Dad back in the mid 1950’s, died on Wednesday after a battle with lung cancer. He was 84. The outspoken Sciota resident always let you know where he stood, especially during, or following a commissioner’s meeting. Parker never shied away from giving you a straight-forward, and honest answer. He and his fellow commissioners may best be remembered for voting against the construction of a waste incinerator along Interstate 80 in East Stroudsburg and building a new county jail in Hamilton Township. Parker, a U.S. Navy veteran and survivor of the Normandy invasion, was also known for his service and generosity to many local organizations and charities. A viewing is set for tomorrow (Fri.) afternoon (4 to 7 p.m.) at the Pula-Bensing Funeral Home in Stroudsburg, and funeral services will take place at the Christ Hamilton Lutheran Church at 11 o’clock Saturday morning.
Employee Voyeur at Camelbeach Waterpark in T-Ville ? Police have a suspect
Camelbeach Water Park officials say Pocono Township Police have a "person of interest" in connection with the recent discovery of a video camera inside an employee bathroom/changing room. The bathroom was labeled for women, but was used by both male and female employees according to published reports. Lifeguards use the room for changing into swimsuits. Police say the hidden video camera was located last Saturday, and Camelbeach authorities turned over the device to investigators a short time later. Water park supervisor Wayne Franks told employees about the find on Tuesday and said the "person of interest" is no longer allowed on the grounds of Camelbeach. That person has not been identified, but police have told a "Pocono Record" reporter the "suspect" is a member of the Camelback (Mountain) Ranger Patrol who had access to the room and planted the recording device. Ranger patrol members work during the ski season. The investigation continues.
Mount Pocono man in jail for allegedly defrauding Pocono M-R-I
A Mount Pocono man is jailed in lieu of $100-thousand dollars bail for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from his employer. Detectives from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office say 27-year old Rohen Desai wrote checks to himself from Pocono M-R-I Imaging and Diagnostic Center, where he was a bookkeeper. Court papers show the bank contacted the company after noticing some irregularities in their checking accounts. Investigators say Desai took 13 checks, totaling 21-thousand dollars last month, and they believe he is responsible for stealing more than 90-thousand dollars during his employment. He now faces Forgery, Theft and many other charges.
Pocono Township hit & run injures girl; Police looking for witnesses
Pocono Township Police need your help in finding the driver of an S U V that struck a girl in the parking lot of the Mr. Z’s store in Tannersville. Officers say the hit & run occurred just after 12:30 Wednesday afternoon, as the girl walked out of the main entrance and into the parking lot. The girl was knocked to the ground by the “newer model”, silver-colored S U V, which left the scene. It’s not known how seriously the victim was injured, but Sergeant Phil Riley is asking any witnesses to this accident to call him at 570-629-7200.
Stbrg. Homeless man robs homeless acquaintances -- is now jailed
A Stroudsburg-area homeless man is jailed in lieu of 10-thousand dollars bail for allegedly holding up two homeless acquaintances, and stealing their car. Stroud Area Regional Police say 68-year old Edwin Owen rode to the Tobyhanna Federal Credit Union with a 42-year old, and an 82-year old, on Tuesday morning. After the pair withdrew an undisclosed amount of money and left the parking lot, Owen pulled out a pocket knife, took their cash, and forced them out of their 1997 Grand Marquis. Police stopped Owen several hours later (on South Courtland Street) in East Stroudsburg and took him into custody. Most of the stolen money was recovered and Owen now faces robbery, theft and related charges.
Barrett Twp. man charged with Construction Zone Accident
An elderly Canadensis man is accused of allegedly running into a Penn Dot flagman in a construction zone near Mount Pocono. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the flagman was directing traffic along Route 196 (near an entrance to the “A” Pocono Country Place Development) Wednesday morning, when 80-year old Donald Collier ran into the worker with his car, knocking the man onto his hood. Collier was stopped at the end of the construction zone...and his wife told police she thinks her husband panicked due to a medical condition and kept driving. The worker is believed to be recovering from a broken wrist. The investigation continues.
Musikfest to kick off 10 days of music, food and fun
Musikfest, the 10-day music festival that takes place in Bethlehem, each August, kicks off its 27th run on Friday. The festival, which features 14 indoor and outdoor stages spread throughout the city’s historic downtown, will present more than 320 performers and 480 shows through Aug. 15th. All kinds of food and desserts will be available from 45 vendors, and 50 of the nation’s finest artisans are also part of the festivities. Musikfest is one of the largest free-admission, non-gated music festivals in the nation. This year’s concert lineup includes Counting Crows, Selena Gomez, Norah Jones, Martina McBride, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, The Avett Brothers and many others. In 2009, the festival attracted more than one million people to the city of Bethlehem.
Pocono Mountain Carnival -- "pro-active arrests"
The annual Pocono Mountain Firemen’s Carnival was another success, and the event also kept Pocono Mountain Regional Police very busy. Officers made 34 arrests during last week’s Carnival - 16 of which involved marijuana possession and 11 involved underage drinking. Those arrested ranged in age from 15 to 21. Chief Harry Lewis says they used undercover and uniformed officers on foot patrol, mountain bike, K-9 and undercover narcotics patrols. Most of the arrests took place outside the carnival grounds, preventing the offenders from entering the carnival and causing trouble.
Police seeking ATM thief ... gets more than $900
The search is on for a man who gained access to an Automated Teller Machine at the Sunoco gas station on Old Route 115 in Saylorsburg. State police at Lehighton say the man was able to get into the machine just after 7 o’clock Monday night, and he removed 48, twenty-dollar bills - totalling 960-dollars - and fled the scene on foot. The suspect is believed to be a white male. Anyone with information on this theft, should call 1-610-377-4270.
Lake of the Pines water main break
A boil water advisory has been put into effect for residents living in a portion of the Lake of the Pines development near Bushkill. A water line has broken, and water service has been turned off for Edward Smith Boulevard and Laurel Court. If you are still getting water, boil it as a precaution. If not, once water service is restored, the Lake of the Pines Water Corporation asks that you boil your drinking and cooking water to be on the safe side. Repairs are underway on the broken line.
Middle Smithfield Twp. man dies in violent crash
A Middle Smithfield Township man is dead following a nasty one-vehicle crash late Monday night. State police say 68-year old William Powell, Sr. was driving east on Lower Lakeview Drive, when for an unknown reason, his Ford pick-up truck traveled off the the road and slammed into a tree. The impact caused a fire to erupt in the engine compartment, but some unidentified passersby pulled Powell from the wreckage. Unfortunately, he died from his injuries. Troopers say he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Investigators would like those who assisted at the accident scene to come forward. Please call 839-7701 in regard to this accident.
Could the Dansbury Depot be Moved ?
The Dansbury Depot isn't dead yet. East Stroudsburg Mayor, Armand "Doc' Martinelli, and Monroe County State Rep. Mario Scavello, are trying to negotiate with many different people to come up with the money to possibly move the historic train station and former restaurant, which was gutted by fire last October, to an area of Miller Park. The demolition of the building along Crystal Street is underway, although the building is being dismantled piece by piece to allow for an eventual relocation of "the heart" of the depot. Martinelli says they will discuss the plan in more detail during tonight's East Stroudsburg Borough Council meeting (7:30 p.m.). He says moving the depot was the idea of developer Troy Nauman, who plans to build a three or four-story building where the depot currently sits. That building, which could resemble two that Nauman built along Main Street in Stroudsburg, will probably include commercial space, (possibly) a restaurant on the ground floor and apartments on the top floors. The old train depot was constructed in 1864, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places back in the 1970's.
Mr. "Versatility" in Eagles training Camp once again...
Call him "Mr. Versatility". Former East Stroudsburg University all-conference punter Ken Parrish is back at Lehigh University trying to make the Philadelphia Eagles roster for the second summer in a row. Parrish, who has worked as a police officer, a teacher, and a part-time high school football coach, is trying to fulfill his dream to play in the NFL. Last summer, he battled hamstring issues, and this year he's healthy and has a better idea of what's required of him. Parrish told WSBG on Monday, he basically shut down for several months, stretched and worked with Chiropractor, Brett Ramsour to get his leg back into great shape. He says his coaches also have him practicing on-side and pooch kicks, holding for extra points and field goals, kicking off and of course competing with Sav Rocca as a punter. So, whether Ken Parrish is playing pro football, making his rounds as a police officer, teaching youngsters in the classroom or on the sidelines, his work ethic shows, he will do it well. Parrish says his parents always taught him no matter what he chose to do, he needed to do it to the best of his ability...so let's hope Parrish will be showcasing his talents at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia this fall.
Counterfeit "Chip Man" in custody, and now jailed
A man who allegedly passed counterfeit chips at Mount Airy Casino Resort last weekend, is now in custody. State police picked up 61-year old Frank Dellisanti of East Hanover, New Jersey Wednesday night at the “PVP” Campground in Stroud Township Wednesday night. Dellisanti is accused of using nineteen, one-hundred dollar chips at the black jack and craps tables early Saturday, and then when he returned Saturday night to cash in five more of them, a casino employee recognized the chips were fake, and Dellisanti ran out of the casino. He now faces theft, receiving stolen property and other charges and is housed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $75-thousand dollars bail.
Dansbury Depot Demolition -- what's the story ?
Is it a case of he said, they said, miscommunication, or something taken out of context ? You decide. The new owner of the Dansbury Depot, Troy Nauman says it will take more than $50-thousand dollars to save the burnt out bar and restaurant in East Stroudsburg from being torn down. A Thursday news release from the group, “Save Our Dansbury Depot”, says if it could raise $50-grand by today, Nauman would consider halting demolition of the historic former train station. But Nauman tells the “Pocono Record” his statement to the group’s organizers was taken out of context. He says he told them he needed a sizeable down payment, something like $50-thousand dollars from a qualified buyer”. Nauman plans to level the Depot and construct a mixed-use building with commercial space on the ground floor, and apartments above like he has done in two places along main Street in Stroudsburg. The old train depot, which was built in 1864, was gutted by an October fire. The cause has not been determined.
HOT, HOT, HOT ... and wet, wet, wet also a weekend possibility !
This summer weather is a double-edged sword. Tomorrow is expected to be the hottest, most oppressive day of the summer – and by the way – this is reportedly the second hottest July on record, but you need to make sure to keep cool. So what do you do ? Stay indoors and enjoy the air-conditioning if you have it ? Or go to a pool, water-park, or do something else outdoors like canoeing, white-water rafting or hiking ? Whatever you choose – especially if it is outdoors – make sure you have access to plenty of water and stay hydrated, don’t overdo it, use sun block, take breaks and find shade if you’re hiking, and use common sense. However, if we get a lot of these forecasted thunderstorms, staying in an air-conditioned place may be your best bet !
By the way, what a difference a year makes. Remember last summer ? The weather was cooler and wet…you may be missing that this weekend ;-)
Tuition going up at E S U; paying for new NCC campus is not a slam dunk
Students attending East Stroudsburg University and the 13 other state-owned universities this fall, will have to cough up for 4 ½-percent more money to pay for tuition. The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education's governing board on Thursday passed a $1 ½-billion dollar budget that also includes a hike in the technology fee for full-time resident students. Tuition will typically go up by about $250. So, for a full-time, resident undergraduate, it will be just over $58-hundred dollars. The tuition technology fee will increase by $26-dollars to $206-dollars for the full academic year for full-time resident students and by $40-dollars for full-time non-resident students.
…and the Monroe County Commissioners are apparently at odds over how to fund the county’s share for the expansion and renovation of the Monroe campus for Northampton Community College. Half of the 72-million dollars needed for the project has already been set aside, while the county is responsible for the other half -- even though last fall, county voters overwhelmingly shot down a proposal to raise property taxes to pay for the project. On Wednesday, Commissioner Janet Weidensaul said the county should retain an independent financial expert to review how they should fund the massive expansion. She also says county residents should get a tuition break to attend NCC. Weidensaul is proposing a $70-dollar reduction per credit hour.
Pike County heroin bust...and heroin trafficking conviction
A New York man is jailed in Pike County for allegedly dealing large quantities of heroin.
Twenty-seven year old Jason Walters of Middletown has been charged with drug trafficking and related offenses. Pike County District Attorney Ray Tonkin says Walters sold 30-packets of heroin to an undercover officer on July 1st, and when he was arrested, he had 100-packets of heroin with him. Walters remains jailed in lieu of $175-thousand dollars bail awaiting a preliminary hearing next month.
Meanwhile, a Pike County Jury convicts 30-year old Wayne Smith, of Milford, of leading a heroin distribution ring that covered the Tri-State area. Jurors found Smith guilty this week of Delivering Heroin and Criminal Conspiracy to Deliver Heroin. Smith now faces up to 81 years in state prison and over $1-million dollars in fines when he’s sentenced in September.
PPL says it will try to lower electricty supply costs
PPL Electric Utilities says it is securing power for 2011 at prices lower than its current cost to supply power to “default” customers. Default customers are the ones who do not shop for generation service from competing suppliers. With the continuing trend of lower market prices for power, the utility said it would likely be passing along a lower rate for ITS generation service to residential and small business customers who receive their power supply from PPL, effective Jan. 1st, 2011. However, the actual rate won’t be known until December after additional purchases are made later this year. The company now has secured approximately 80 percent of its power supply from 16 companies for the first five months of next year (2011).
Strong Thunderstorms blow through the Region
Some strong thunderstorms blew across Wayne and Pike Counties Wednesday (yesterday) afternoon. The NWS had issued a Tornado Watch for portions of Pike and Wayne counties, and SEVERE Thunderstorm Warnings for Monroe, Carbon and Northampton counties. Some tree branches, limbs and a few trees came down, along with heavy rain, but there was no "confirmed" tornadic activity reported anywhere in the listening area. However, very strong winds - wind shear -did lift a dock out of the water at Lake Wallenpaupack near Tafton.
The thunderstorms also brought with them a less humid air mass, but the lower humidity will only last for today as it will creep back into the region tomorrow, and then rise to extremely high levels on Saturday (when the heat index could reach 115 - 120 degrees).
Michigan trucker to face deadly chain-reaction crash charges in Court
A 52-year old Michigan truck driver will now face Homicide by Vehicle and other charges in Monroe County Court for a June 24th accident that killed a New York woman and injured several other people. On Wednesday, Magisterial District Judge Thomas Shiffer determined there was enough evidence to bind over the charges against William Blackburn. Stroud Area Regional Police charged Blackburn for the deadly crash that occurred at the intersection of four-lane Route 209 and Shafer Schoolhouse Road. Several drivers were waiting for the light to change, when Blackburn's rig barreled into the line of vehicles and also took out the traffic signal. Fifty year old Susan Erban died from her injuries, while several others had to be treated at local hospitals. Blackburn was apologetic following the hearing, saying he never meant for this to happen. He remains free on $100-thousand dollars bail.
Same utility pole demolished along Route 191 in Stroud Twp.
A one-car crash on Route 191 in Stroud Township Wednesday evening closed the road for several hours as crews had to temporarily repair a downed utility pole…and a portion of the roadway will be closed again, sometime this (Thurs.) morning, for about three to four hours while workers replace the pole. Stroud Area Regional Police say the driver failed to negotiate a curve and slammed into the pole, and nearly cracked it in half, and the impact started a fire that damaged the car. The driver was wearing a seat belt and wasn’t injured. Route 191 was closed between Wooddale Road and Creek Road.
In May, a pole in the exact location was cut in half, when a 16-year-old wanted for a burglary at Penn Hills Resort, lost control of his vehicle and crashed.
Overturned "tractor-trailer mess" ties up I-80 EB traffic
A truck driver lost control of his rig early this (Wed.) morning traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 between Scotrun and Tannersville. His truck slammed into an embankment just off the shoulder, and flipped onto its side, partially blocking one (the right) lane of travel. State police were on the scene more than 9 hours directing and controlling traffic along with fire police and other emergency personnel. Traffic was moving at a snails pace throughout most of the day in that area, and also backing things up along Routes 715, 611, 940 and at the I-80/380 junction. The truck driver was seriously was injured and flown by Medi-vac (helicopter) to Lehigh Valley Hospital. The truck and trailer were totalled.
Fire rips through Swiftwater apartment building
An early morning fire Wednesday rips through an apartment building in Pocono Township, and now eight people are homeless. The four-alarm blaze started just after midnight in a three-story building on Route 611, just up the road from the Acorn Market in Swiftwater. Thankfully, everyone got out safely and no one was injured, but the blaze caused extensive fire, smoke and water damage. The state police fire marshal is trying to determine the cause of that blaze.
Fire crews from Pocono Township, Pocono Summit, Coolbaugh Township, and even Marshalls Creek, responded quickly, and kept the building standing, however, several of the residents lost many of their belongings. If you would like to help out the tenants, call the local American Red Cross office at 570-476-3800.
Woman in deep trouble for allegedly "accepting" Katrina funds
An East Stroudsburg area woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton for allegedly providing false statements to the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding emergency relief funds. The indictment says 38-year old Contessa Comadore was actually living in Monroe County in 2005, when Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana and Mississippi, and therefore was not a Katrina disaster victim. Comadore applied for, and received, over $25-thousand dollars in relief money -- funds the indictment says she was not entitled to collect. Comadore is scheduled to appear in federal court this (Thurs.) afternoon to face Fraud and related charges. If found guilty, Comadore faces up to 65 years in federal prison and $1-million dollars in fines.
Bogus chips passed at Gaming Tables @ Mount Airy last weekend
It’s starting already…less than a week after Mount Airy Casino Resort ushered in table games, state police say a man passed nearly $2-thousand dollars in phony (game) chips last weekend. Troopers say a man used at least "19", $100-dollar chips at some of the new gaming tables early Saturday morning. The same man then returned Saturday evening and tried to cash in five more of the bogus chips, before a casino employee suspected one of the chips was fake. As the worker began to question him, the man ran out of the casino. The suspect is said to be a slightly bald, middle-aged white male, with a medium to pounchy build. If you have any information on him, call 839-7701.
Parrish pleads guilty to killing girlfriend and son
An Effort man charged with killing his live-in girlfriend and their young son last summer, was back before Monroe County President Judge Ronald Vican on Monday. Twenty-four year old Michael Parrish again pleaded guilty to first-degree murder for the shooting deaths of Victoria Adams and 18-month old Sydney Parrish. This time Judge Vican accepted the plea to a pair of first-degree murder charges. He rejected a Parrish admission back in April because of miscommunication between him and his attroney. Parrish will now await the sentencing phase and he could receive a mandatory life in prison sentence, or the death penalty. Parrish told the judge he wants death because then he'll be at peace.
Veteran Sky Divers get chutes tangled @ Strbg Airport; both men die
State police continue their investigation into a sky-diving accident at Stroudsburg Pocono Airport in Smithfield Township over the weekend. Troopers say 75-year old George Flynn of Colonia, New Jersey was jumping with his buddy, 70-year old Theodore Wilson of New Rochelle, New York, (on Saturday afternoon) when their parachutes tangled and both men fell to the ground. Wilson died from his injuries at Pocono Medical Center, while Medi-vac helicopter flew Flynn to Lehigh Valley Hospital where he passed away late Sunday afternoon. Police determined there was no foul play involved, and the deaths have been ruled accidental.
Accused murderers captured in U-Haul van in the Poconos over the weekend
Two brothers wanted for killing a Johnstown, Pennsylvania man on July 11th, are now back in Cambria County to face murder and related charges after alert, local state troopers stopped a U-Haul van in Tannersville. State police were notified that 21-year old Taevon Dixon and his 24-year old brother Jharon (Dixon) were possibly riding in the van heading east on Interstate 80 early Friday morning, accompanied by two other Johnstown residents. When the van pulled off 80 onto Route 715 to avoid the dragnet, two state police crusiers followed the vehicle into the Road Runner gas station parking lot. Both brothers were taken into custody, along with 36-year old Omar Brown and the driver, 22-year old Breanna Palmer-Bowers.
Bowers told said the men were talking about getting into a shootout with police when they noticed they were being followed, but she decided to pull into the gas station, and surrender, to avoid such a confrontation. Bowers and Brown remain jailed in the MCCF in lieu of $50-thousand dollars bail, while the Dixons will face further court action for the death of 38-year old James Pelham, Jr. The van was confiscated along with a loaded .45-caliber handgun. The investigation continues.
Teenage boy shot (accidentally); Fighting to survive life-threatening injury
A 17-year old Long Pond area youngster remains hospitalized after he was shot this week with an A-K-47 assault rifle. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the boy was inside a home in the Sierra View Development Wednesday afternoon, when he was shot, accidentally, in the area of his ribs. The victim was flown to Geisinger Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition. Police say there was another teenager (17 years old) inside the Yellowstone Drive home when the shooting occurred, but they aren’t saying if he was involved in any way. Police also haven’t said who owns the gun. The investigation continues.
Poc. Twp man acquitted AGAIN by a Monroe County Jury
The trial for a Pocono Township man accused of shooting his girlfriend in the leg during a domestic dispute has ended with an acquittal. Township police arrested 35-year old Jesse Oltmanns last December after he allegedly used a .32-caliber handgun on his girlfriend when she returned to his home following a nasty argument. The jury believed Oltmanns acted in self-defense, after the woman was taken from his house by police, only to return later uninvited. This was the second time in the last few months that Oltmanns was freed by a Monroe County Court jury. In May, a jury found the former professional boxer not guilty of threatening and terrorizing his neighbors. This latest trial lasted less than two days and the verdict was returned in about an hour.
Painter/Handyman waives sexual hearing to Monroe County Court
A local handyman accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl inside a Price Township home he was supposed to paint, has waived his right to a preliminary hearing to Monroe County Court. State police arrested 48-year old David Reinhard of East Stroudsburg two weeks ago and charged him with sexual assault and related offenses. Troopers say Reinhard entered the home to start working, but he instead approached a 17-year old girl inside her bedroom, dropped his pants and touched her inappropriately. The girl screamed and punched Reinhard before she was able to throw him out of her room, lock the door and call police. He remains jailed in lieu of $25-thousand dollars bail awaiting further court action (awaiting trial).
Traffic stop leads to drug find and jail for NY man
An Ithaca, New York is in the MCCF facing felony drug possession and related charges following a traffic stop along Interstate 80 in Stroudsburg Thursday night. State police say they stopped a van with New York plates for speeding. After 24-year old George Figueroa agreed to a search of his Ford Windstar, troopers discovered a small amount of marijuana and two bags of cocaine. Figueroa was arrested and searched, and that’s when troopers found two more bags of cocaine. In all, 200 grams, with a street value of $20-thousand dollars, were confiscated.
Two Murder trials wrap up with guilty verdicts in Monroe County Court
A Luzerne County man on trial for a gruesome killing in Bartonsville 17 years ago, could now get life in prison after a county jury found him guilty this (Wed.) afternoon of first-degree murder. Gary Gerber of Edwardsville was convicted of slashing the throat of Blairstown, N.J. hairstylist Robert Hagan, near the former Bartonsville Truck Stop in August of 1993. State police said Gerber also ran over Hagan's body with his (Hagan's) own car. Gerber pleaded guilty to the killing a few years ago and was sentenced to 10 to 20-years in state prison, but he was granted a re-trial on appeal. During this trial, Gerber and his family members testified he killed Hagan because Hagan had sexually assaulted him. A grand jury indicted him on Homicide and related charges in 1995.
Meanwhile, jurors in a separate court room convicted 30-year old Phillip Vonville on Tuesday
for the stabbing death of 19-year old Christopher Hernandez, last September at a mobile home park in Long Pond. The Blakeslee man's 18-year old ex-fiance' told jurors she tried to stop Vonville from killing her best friend, but Vonville flew into a jealous rage when he saw Hernandez and stabbed him with a large knife. The jury believed Defense Attorney Robin Spishock's claims that Vonville was not in the right state of mind and just snapped when he saw Hernandez, but did not intend to kill him. As he left the courtroom, Vonville said he was sorry, while Hernandez' family and friends did not want to comment on the verdict. Vonville will be sentenced within 60 days.
Hamilton Twp. Zoners say "NO" to controversial Cell Phone Tower
It's been a year, but on Wednesday afternoon, Hamilton Township zoners decided not to allow a 250-foot cellular phone tower to be constructed in Snydersville. Most of the testimony over the last several months had been overwhelmingly against building such a tower along Pensyl Creek Road, near Sawmill Road...and yesterday, the zoning board turned down Fortune Wireless' request for that special use permit. The original proposal called for a 300-foot tower, but the developer reduced the height down to 250-feet. But in the end, that move didn't make a difference.
Table Games are up and running at Mount Airy Casino
Just a few short years ago, slot machines were brought into the Poconos, and now table games like poker, rouelette and black jack are assembled and operating inside Mount Airy Casino Resort near Mount Pocono. On Tuesday, casino owner Louie DeNaples rolled a large pair of red "die" to get things "rolling" ! The Pa. Gaming Control Board gave the "thumbs up" following a Sunday test run to make sure dealers, staffers, surveillance bubbles and other internal controls and cameras were ready for "live play" and there were no gliches. So, Mount Airy is now a full-fledged casino and many gamblers said yesterday there's no longer a need to travel to Atlantic City.
Unfortunately, under state law, tax revenue from the table games will be used for projects outside of Monroe County like the Mellow Medical College in Lackawanna County and will not be used to reduce school property taxes, or to benefit more worthwhile projects in the casino's home county of Monroe.
Man says three men broke into his motel room early this (Tues.) morning
A Wind Gap man tells state police that three men wearing hoods and a scarf, barged into his motel room this (Tues.) morning in Ross Township, held a gun to his head and demanded money. The 55-year old victim says when he told the men he had no money, they ransacked his room at the Gateway Motel on Old Route 115, and ran off without taking anything. The hotel room invasion took place between 1 and 1:30 a.m. The man described the suspects as three black males. He was not injured. If you have any information, call troopers at 610-377-4270.
Triple-A (Minor League) All-Star Home Run Derby features local high schoolers
Coca-Cola Park in Allentown – home to the Philadelphia Phillies’ Triple-A affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs -- is hosting this year’s minor league all-star game, and that included a home run derby in rain-soaked conditions last (Mon.) night. Despite the wet weather, there was still plenty for 6-thousand passionate fans to cheer about. Dan Johnson of the Durham Bulls out-slugged local favorite Andy Tracy in a "swing-off" to win the 2010 Derby Crown. The contest featured six of the top sluggers in the International and Pacific Coast Leagues, and two local high school ball players – Nazareth’s D.J. King, and Westyn Baylor of Bangor. Baylor told WSBG News he was nervous until he hit his home run, then he settled down. Both Baylor and King represented themselves admirably clubbing a home run apiece. King will continue his baseball career at Bloomsburg University next year, while Baylor will come back for his senior season as a Slater Slugger. The Triple-A All-Star game is set for 7 o’clock tomorrow (Wed.) night (at Coca-Cola Park), while the MLB All-Star Game is tonight in Anaheim, California.
Excessive Heat -- be very careful and stay cool and hydrated
With extremely hot temperatures expected to linger over Pennsylvania for much of this week, (Heat indexes over 115 degree for the last three days) Health Secretary Everette James urges Pennsylvanians to take steps to recognize and prevent heat-related illness. James says, “those at greatest risk for developing heat-related illness are infants and young children, people over age 65, and those with heart disease, high blood pressure, breathing problems, or chronic conditions." “However, anyone who participates in outdoor activities in extremely hot weather is at risk of becoming ill.”
Heat stroke, exhaustion, and cramps are the three most common heat-related illnesses. The incidence of these conditions increases when humidity is high because sweat cannot evaporate as quickly, meaning the body cools itself at a much slower rate than usual. The most severe heat-related illness, heat stroke, occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature due to overheating and, in turn, loses the ability to sweat. Someone suffering from heat stroke may experience a body temperature above 103° F; red, hot, and dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and unconsciousness. If someone is experiencing heat stroke, attempt to cool the person off in a shady place while waiting for emergency medical assistance.
Heat exhaustion can occur after sun exposure or inadequate replenishing of fluids after spending time outside.
Gun-toting Strbg. man unsuccessful in Quaker Alley Robbery attempt
A Stroudsburg man is jailed facing attempted robbery and related charges after police say he attempted to hold up two people in Quaker Alley very early this (Thurs.) morning. Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says a man later identified as 22-year old Jairo Mugaburu stepped out of the shadows from the old cemetery and pointed a handgun at two victims in their early 20’s. Mugaburu demanded whatever they had in their pockets, but once he got close enough, the 23-year old victim lunged at him and they began to struggle, and Mugaburu dropped his .9-millimeter (Taurus) and ran away. But not before he was bitten on the right arm. Stroud Area Regional teamed up with state police and located Mugaburu on North 6th Street. He was ID’d, and the bite mark was used as a further identifier.
Stroud and Paradise Townships ban Outdoor Burning
The Stroud Township Supervisors and township fire chief Dave Smalley have put an outdoor burning ban into effect. The burn ban kicked in on Thursday and will remain in place until further notice. The area hasn't received any soaking rain for weeks, and conditions remain ripe for damaging brush fires. Paradise Township Supervisors followed this weekend with a similar ban, prohibiting outdoor burning until further notice.
Four-day holiday weekend has double-digit traffic deaths
Ten people died and 361 others were injured in 712 crashes investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police during the four-day Fourth of July holiday driving period. One of those deaths, and several of those injuries occurred Monday along Route 33 in Saylorsburg. State Police Commissioner Frank Pawlowski says seven of those killed were not wearing seat belts, and he noted that 72 of the crashes were alcohol-related, including three of the fatal crashes. State Police at Swiftwater say the crash near the Saylorsburg exit, occurred when a tractor-trailer driver lost control while heading south, crossed the median and slammed head-on into a small car and a large passenger van. Twenty-one year old Paul Miller, Jr. of Scranton died at the scene, while three of the ten people riding in the church van were seriously injured. The truck driver escaped without any serious injuries. The highway was closed for many hours as investigators reconstructed the accident scene, which is located in an inactive construction zone. The driver has yet to be charged, but the investigation continues. During last year’s Fourth of July holiday travel period, which covered only three days (July 3rd - 5th), nine people died and 206 others were injured in 447 crashes investigated by the Pa. State Police.
Slate Belt boy killed in Propane accident on Tree Farm
Young Luke Hahn of Bushkill Township was only a few days away from his thirteenth birthday, but early Monday afternoon, Hahn lost his life when a small dump truck he was driving on Cherry Hill Tree Farm property, backed into the cap of a 1,000 gallon underground propane tank, setting off a major explosion. The explosion sparked a fire that also badly burned his father, Kraig Hahn. He remains in the burn unit at Lehigh Valley Hospital. The boy was apparently working on the 12-acre Christmas Tree farm shortly after noon, when the accident occurred. Some residents said the explosion shook their homes and sent flames about 40 to 50-feet into the air. State Police and OSHA are assisting Bushkill Township Police with the investigation.
Body of man found in Snydersville woods tentatively identified
A woman walking her dogs in Hamilton Township early Thursday morning makes a grizzly discovery. State police say she came across the badly decomposed body a man in a wooded area off Polk Valley Road. An autopsy at Lehigh Valley Hospital this (Fri.) morning determined there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of 62-year old Walter Powes. A Deputy Monroe County Coroner said it appeared his body had been there for several weeks. Troopers say a backpack was found near his remains, but there were no clues or information inside the backpack to help investigators with the case. He had no known address and he may have been homeless. So far, troopers are labelling his death non-suspicious. The investigation continues.
One man jailed; 14-year old is charged with robbery in Mount Pocono
Quick police work lands a Mount Pocono man in jail and a Swiftwater teenager in juvenile detention following a little crime spree on the Mountain. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say they responded to a report of an attempted purse-snatching by two teens on bicycles on Thursday morning. A short time later, they received a call of a robbery at the Megha Tobacco Outlet on Route 611. A younger white male with a gun took several hundred dollars and made his getaway on a bike. While police were investigating, PNC Bank called regarding a suspicious indivdual in the bank, and officers obtained surveillance video used to determine this was the young man they wanted. Using this description they patrolled near the Tobacco store and ran into 31-year old Jeremy Goodson, and found a bicycle, pellet gun and hat in a wooded area near Fairview Avenue. They followed Goodson to a house where there encountered three boys inside, including the 14-year old robber. Police were able to determine Goodson recruited the teens to carry out various robberies and other crimes in Mount Pocono. They recovered money and other evidence before taking Goodson and the boy into custody. They now face Robbery, Conspiracy and a very long list of other charges.
ESU student given probation and ordered to get help for Rape Hoax
A Bethlehem woman says personal problems led her to make up a story that she had been raped on the campus of East Stroudsburg University. However, 23-year old Laura Gruver will not spend any time in jail…but on Thursday, she was sentenced to a year of probation, and ordered to perform 50 hours of community service and continue with mental health counseling. Stroud Regional and University Police say Gruver claimed she was attacked last August 13th, behind the Dansbury Commons Cafeteria, by a man with a knife, who forced her into the woods, raped her, and then ran from the scene. She gave a detailed description of the alleged suspect, and police even found personal items, including underwear, at the spot where she claimed she was attacked. A few weeks later she admitted the story was a hoax.
Poc. Mtn. Regional Police look for SUV Pervert
Pocono Mountain Regional Police are seeking information on a man, in a maroon SUV, who allegedly exposed himself to a 15-year-old girl Tuesday afternoon as she walked in front of the Tobyhanna Elementary Center. The girl told police the man called her over to his vehicle and began asking questions. As she got close to the SUV, she saw the man's exposed genitals and he was masturbating. The girl then screamed and ran to the Clymer Library with her 14-year old brother. Police say the incident occurred along Old Route 940. If you have information about the vehicle and/or the driver, call police at 570-895-2400.
Burglars get head start on Fourth of July celebration
Apparently some burglars are preparing for a 4th of July fireworks celebration of their own as they broke into Bada Boom Fireworks, on Route 115 near Blakeslee this week. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say someone stole about $10-thousand dollars worth of fireworks from the business either late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.
Photos released of Optima gas station robbery suspect
Police have released surveillance photos of the man who robbed the gas station in the Wal-Mart parking lot in East Stroudsburg last Thursday. Stroud Area Regional Police say the suspect is a six-foot tall black male, who was wearing a light-colored fleece sweater when he held up the Optima gas station/convenience store. The man walked into the store, asked the clerk to change a dollar bill, then pulled out a silver and black handgun and demanded money. He escaped on foot with about $300-dollars in cash. If you have any information on this suspect, call police at 570-421-6800, or Monroe County Crime Stoppers at 866-370-1518. All calls will remain confidential and you could be eligible for up to $2-thousand dollars in reward money.
Heroin Busts in E-Burg in East Stroudsburg lead to five arrests
Three people have been arrested during a pair of recent heroin busts in East Stroudsburg. Stroud Area Regional Police say 21-year old Jacob Keil and 20-year old Kimberly Sathmary face charges after they used a search warrant to raid a home along Brodhead Avenue on Tuesday. Investigators say they recovered 29 bags of heroin, four bottles of prescription drugs and 500-dollars in cash. Two other people in the apartment - Breanne Wilson and Julie Coulter – face possession of drug paraphernalia charges.
…and police used another search warrant to confiscate seven bundles of heroin and more than two thousand dollars in cash from the Walnut Street apartment of 20-year old Mykel Englert. That raid took place last Wednesday. Officers say they also found a .44-caliber handgun and four phones during that raid. Englert faces drug and weapons possession charges, and is jailed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility.
Tunkhannock Township man dies from motorcycle crash injuries
A weekend motorcycle accident in Carbon County claims the life of a Blakeslee man. The coroner’s office reports that 52-year old Edward Blew died from head injuries Tuesday night at St. Luke’s Hospital. He was flown there after he crashed his motorcycle along Fairyland Road in Franklin Township on Saturday. His death was ruled an accident.
Local developer charged for trucking in contaminated Soil
Agents from the Pa. State Attorney General’s Office has charged a Tannersville man with illegally dumping more than 65-hundred tons of contaminated soil in Hamilton Township. Local developer, 45-year old Gerald Gay, is accused of dumping more than 232 dump truck loads of contaminated fill on his Castle Creek Estates property. The attorney general and the Department of Environmental Protection says the soil came from the Bronx and failed to meet the state's clean fill standards because it contained high levels of arsenic. State law requires "out of state" soil/fill to be tested for metals and other contaminants, but the complaint says that was never done. The DEP already cited Gay last summer for illegal dumping. He faces a preliminary hearing next Tuesday on the Unlawful Conduct charges. He could get jail time and be ordered to pay hefty fines.
Kresgeville man waives Rape and Statutory Sex Assault charges to trial
A West End man accused of impregnating a 12-year old girl during a 9-month relationship, allegedly guiding her through a botched abortion attempt a few weeks ago and then burying the stillborn fetus, will now face more than 100 counts of rape, statutory sexual assault and countless other charges in Monroe County Court. Thirty-year old Michael Lisk of Kresgeville waived his preliminary hearing on Monday straight to the Court of Common Pleas. He remains jailed in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $250-thousand dollars bail awaiting a trial date.
Jet Ski/Boat accident on Lake Wallenpaupack injures four people
At least four people were injured, one seriously, in a nasty accident just before dusk on the upper edge of Lake Wallenpaupack in Pike County. The Pa. Fish and Boat Commission confirm the incident involved three watercraft, and occurred just after 8 p.m. near the Ledgedale Boat Launch. Details remain sketchy, but television news reports say a female jet ski rider hit one boat, flew through the air, and then plowed into another boat. One of the injured (the female jet ski operator) had to be flown by helicopter to the hospital for treatment. No names have been released, but a full investigation is now underway.
Strbg School District to raise taxes for 2010-2011 school year
In case you missed this story over the weekend, the Stroudsburg School Board passed a 2010-2011 operating budget that includes a 7.3-percent property tax increase. Board members did trim more than 200-thousand dollars in spending, and about 1-percent off of a proposed tax increase during Saturday’s special meeting, then approved the new spending plan in a 6 to 3 vote. Board members say the tax hike is needed to handle rising salaries and health benefits, and to help pay for the renovation and reconstruction of the high school.
Early morning Burglary at Saylorsburg Sunoco
State police are gathering information on a gas station burglary in Saylorsburg. Troopers say two men smashed the front-door glass at the Sunoco station at Old Route 115 and Kunkletown Road early last Thursday morning. Once inside, the men stole the cash register drawers and several packs of cigarettes, and then fled the scene on foot. If you have any information about this burglary, call State Police at the Lehighton barracks.
E-Burg man jailed for allegedly stealing woman's car from the Uni-Mart
An East Stroudsburg man is jailed for allegedly stealing a woman’s car as it was parked outside the Exxon Uni-Mart on Sunday morning. Stroud Area Regional Police say the female victim called 9-1-1 and said she left her keys in the car, and when she came out of the Prospect Street convenience store, someone was driving away in her 2008 Mazda “3”. The stolen vehicle report was dispatched to police in the area, and within minutes, officer Doug Weiss located the unoccupied car at a home on Normal Street. After interviewing neighbors, Weiss was led to 39-year old Jose Javier Martinez-Graciani, who still had the car keys in his possession. He was arrested and charge with Car Theft, Theft by Unlawful Taking, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle and driving without a License.
MCCF Officer charged with sexual assault at the county jail
A local corrections officer is accused of having sexual contact with a female inmate. The Monroe County D.A.’s Office has charged 42-year old Anthony Perez of Middle Smithfield Township with one count of institutional sexual assault. Court records say Perez had sexual contact with the woman in a storage area, out of the view of county correctional facility security cameras, on April 25th. The woman told another corrections officer about the encounter, and that officer told jail supervisors, who notified the District Attorney. Perez was arraigned on Friday and released without having to post bail.
Feds raid Senator Bob Mellow's Home & Office
Federal agents raid the home and district office of longtime Pennsylvania State Senator Bob Mellow. There's no word as to what agents were looking for inside those two Lackawanna County locations on Friday, but Mellow’s spokespeople (at his Harrisburg Office) say he’s cooperating fully with the investigation. Federal agents also searched the home of fellow State Senator Ray Musto in Luzerne County this spring, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged political corruption in the Wyoming Valley. Senator Mellow, who represents the northwest portion of Monroe County, announced earlier this year he is not seeking re-election, and will retire from state government after 40 years.
Accident involving "over-stuffed" car injures three from Harrisburg area
Two people were seriously injured in a crash late Sunday morning along Interstate 380 in Coolbaugh Township. State police say 23-year old Michael Williams of Enola, Pa. was traveling north on 380, when he drove onto the shoulder and lost control, crossed the median, and both southbound lanes, then slammed into a tree about 75 feet from the road. Williams, who was wearing a seatbelt, escaped with only minor injuries, while two backseat passengers (both from Harrisburg) suffered moderate injuries because troopers say they weren’t buckled up properly. Police say there were six people inside the Chevy Cavalier, and the investigation continues.
Westgate Apts. fire claims one life, displaces residents
A fire damages the Westgate Apartment complex in Stroudsburg Thursday night and claims one life. Stroud Area Regional Police say the fire broke out on the fifth floor of the building (in apartment 505), and killed 71-year James Bisbing. Fire, police and emergency crews evacuated about 100 residents across West Main Street to Stroudsburg High School, while local fire crews brought the situation (fire) under control. No one else was injured, and we had reports that firefighters and police officers carried some of the tenants to safety. The American Red Cross and Salvation Army also helped out at the fire scene and at the evacuation site. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
By the way, the Housing Authority of Monroe County has relocated the residents of Westgate, and if you have any questions or concerns about them, call 570-402-7310.
West End rape case update; Kunkletown man charged with Raping a 5-year old
A Polk Township man accused of impregnating a 13-year old girl, and then guiding her through a botched abortion, is now jailed on a lot higher bail. On Thursday, a county judge increased the bail amount for 30-year old Michael James Lisk of Kresgeville from $50-thousand, to $250-thousand dollars. State police say following the abortion, Lisk buried the male fetus in a wooded area not far from his home. He eventually turned it over to police after troopers questioned him about the bizarre circumstances of this case. The girl was treated at Lehigh Valley Hospital after developing medical complications associated with her pregnancy, and hospital officials alerted state police. The girl has not been charged.
… and an Eldred Township man is in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $200-thousand dollars bail for allegedly sexually assaulting a five-year old girl on several occasions between March 1st and June 7th of this year. State Police at Lehighton arrested 40-year old Peter Fursa of Kunkletown on Thursday, and charged him with several counts of Rape, Aggravated Indecent Assault, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Corruption of Minors.
Are the Thrills gone at "Thrills" nightclub in Reeders ?
Monroe County President Judge Ronald Vican has decided the thrill is over, at least for now, at Thrills nightclub in Jackson Township. Judge Vican ruled this week, that "topless", or "adult cabaret entertainment" is not a permitted at the club because it violates the rules for the area in which it is zoned. The township filed an injunction in county court saying the club's owners
were in violation of the zoning ordinance, which permits "bikini clad" dancers, but not topless, peformers. After viewing a video-tape from a private investigator who posed as a club patron in early April, Judge Vican granted a preliminary injunction to have the Reeders club cease operating as an "adult cabaret" immediately. Owner Ira Weiner says he plans to challenge the ruling in a higher court. Thrills is located in a Commercial Zone, while an "adult cabaret" is only permitted in an Industrial Zone in Jackson Township.
Stroudsburg School Board extends budget meeting to weekend
More discussion about a proposed Stroudsburg School District budget that includes a tax hike, will resume tomorrow morning in the Stroudsburg High School cafeteria. School board members are considering an 8-percent tax increase to help pay fixed costs like salaries and health benefits, and to fund the renovation and reconstruction of the high school on West Main Street. (Stroudsburg) District Superintendent, Dr. John Toleno, says he’s opposed to eliminating sports and other extra-curricular programs and closing an elementary school, but if that’s what the school board wants, then that’s what will be done.
Attempted robbery at Wal-Mart gas station in E-Burg
Stroud Area Regional Police are attempting to locate the man who tried to hold up the Wal-Mart gas station in East Stroudsburg (at about 8 o’clock) Thursday night. Police say the suspect, identified as a black male, 5 feet 11 inches tall and wearing a green sweater, pulled out a handgun and demanded money from the cashier. However, the would-be robber was either scared off, or had a change of heart, and ran away toward K-Mart without any money. If you have any information, call Stroud Regional police at 421-6800.
Pittston man leads police on High Speed chase after being Tased
A Pittston, Pennsylvania man is locked up (at the MCCF) after leading state police on a five-mile, high speed chase across Monroe County Wednesday afternoon. Troopers pulled over 24-year old Robert Michael Fahey for speeding on Interstate 80 in Pocono Township. But when troopers told Fahey they were calling in a K-9 unit to search his truck, he began arguing and got back into his pick up. Police then fired a tazer, and hit Fahey, but it didn’t slow him down, and he led troopers on a chase though an active construction zone just west of the 80/380 split. Officers say he hit several traffic cones and signs, rammed the front end of a tractor-trailer that tried to keep him from passing, and finally stopped about four-miles later. Fahey was arraigned on Aggravated Assault, Fleeing & Eluding Police, Reckless Endangerment and many other charges.
Mo. Cty. Commissioners trying to help local business owners prosper
The Monroe County Commissioners have declared the county a disaster recovery zone. Citing a continuing rise in the unemployment rate, constant foreclosures, and businesses struggling to stay afloat, the commissioners decided Wednesday to allow local business owners to borrow from a pool of $6.7-million dollars in federal bond money. However, the money is only available until the end of this year, so applicants must have projects that are ready to hit the ground running. Even though these bonds are tax-exempt, and have low interest rates, they must be guaranteed by a lending or financial institution.
Stroud Twp. trio sentenced for Sex Assaults
Three 21-year old men from Stroud Township will spend many months at the Monroe County Correctional Facility for sexually assaulting three teenage girls at a party in Penn Estates two years ago. Riccardo White pleaded guilty to indecent assault and conspiracy to commit statutory sexual assault and received the longest sentence in Monroe County Court on Wednesday – 20 to 40 months. John Garcia was given 19 to 38 months for providing alcohol and having unlawful contact with a minor, while the party host, Owen McFarlane, (who was convicted by a county jury of supplying the alcohol that helped get the victims drunk), will spend 17 to 34 months behind bars. The defendants said the sex was consensual, but police say the girls were only 14 and 16 years of age when the assaults occurred.
Tobyhanna State Park beach is closed
If you were hoping to cool off in the next couple of days by swimming at the Tobyhanna State Park in Coolbaugh Township, you’ll have to make other plans. That’s because the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has closed down the beach because of high bacteria levels in the water. This usually happens after rain water run-off takes animal and geese droppings into the lake, so the beach remains closed as a precaution until water test results show that the bacteria levels are acceptable. However, Tobyhanna State Park remains open for fishing, boating and hiking.
Pocono Lake man fires a warning shot at teens; now jailed at the MCCF
A Pocono Lake man is jailed on aggravated assault and related charges for allegedly firing gunshots at a group of juveniles who he said had been harassing him. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say 61-year old James Politano fired what he claimed was a warning shot in the direction of the three youngsters, as they drove past his home in Arrowhead Lakes over the weekend. No one was injured and no bullets hit the car, but officers did confiscate the gun that was allegedly used, a spent shell casing, and five other guns from Politano’s home. He remains in the Monroe County Correctional Facility.
Tobyhanna man admits to stabbing his girlfriend repeatedly, then himself
A Coolbaugh Township man could spend the next 20-years in prison after pleading guilty in Monroe County Court to stabbing and assaulting his girlfriend in April. Pocono Mountain Regional Police arrested 24-year-old Jason Furtak of Tobyhanna on April 28th for stabbing his girlfriend several times with a kitchen knife, then running from the house and into the woods, where he stabbed himself in the neck and stomach, and slashed his wrists. Furtak pleaded guilty to Aggravated and Simple Assault charges Tuesday afternoon, and he’ll be sentenced following the completion of a mental health evaluation.
Delaware Valley High School at the top of its "class"
A Pocono area high school is one of the nation’s BEST ! “Newsweek” magazine has just released its annual report of "America's Best High Schools for 2010", and Delaware Valley High School in Milford makes the grade. Each year “Newsweek” picks the top high schools in the country based on how well students fare in advanced placement courses, and the school’s graduation rate. Out of the more than 16-hundred 20 high schools selected, Del Val ranked 15-hundred and 31st. The evaluation was done using the 2008-2009 school year, where the Warriors had a 95-percent graduation rate. By the way, 90-percent of those graduates went on to college.
Lawsuits piling up against construction of 500KV Power Line
There are more legal hurdles in the way of a major power line popping up in the northeastern part of the Poconos (Pike County). The Saw Creek Estates Community Association and the Energy Conservation Council of Pennsylvania have filed lawsuits in Commonwealth Court to prevent the 500-kilovolt Roseland-Susquehana power line from slicing through Bushkill, and across the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Similar suits have been filed in the “garden state” to stop construction of the massive line, and the Pennsylvania Consumer Advocate has also filed a petition to delay the line until the National Park Service rules on a required permit. The state Public Utility Commission has cleared P-P-L to start construction on the line, but again, the company needs that permit.
Former Bartonsville man found dead in E-Burg Cemetery
A maintenance person makes an unwanted discovery at the Prospect Street Cemetery in East Stroudsburg. Stroud Area Regional Police say the worker found 37-year old Christopher Cardwell (last known address was in Bartonsville) dead just after 8 o'clock Monday morning. Cardwell was located laying on his side and surrounded by his personal belongings. Police say the death does not appear to be suspicious, and no foul play is suspected. The Monroe County Coroner's Office is assisting with the investigation.
Crack down on drunk driving continues in Monroe County
State police at the Swiftwater barracks continue their weekend assaults on alleged drunk drivers. Troopers cited nine drivers, including a 29-year old Cresco man, twice, for Driving Under the Influence. Police say they pulled over suspected DUI offenders Friday, Saturday and early Sunday in Stroudsburg…and also in Stroud, Pocono, Hamilton and Smithfield Townships. The youngest offenders were 18 and 19 – and they also face underage drinking charges – and the oldest was 59-years of age.
Traffic stops net drugs and weapons in Monroe County
A weekend traffic stop in Pocono Township, nets state police some weapons and lots of marijuana plants. Troopers from Swiftwater stopped an SUV in the westbound lanes of Interstate 80 (near Scotrun) Saturday evening, and as they spoke with the driver, 19-year old John Michael Pucci of Attleboro, Massachusetts, they smelled marijuana. After receiving permission to search the vehicle, police found a small amount of pot, plastic buckets containing marijuana plants and a .380-caliber handgun. The SUV was later impounded and a search warrant uncovered two more handguns, a shotgun, 88 marijuana plants, two bags of pot, pipes and a hand-held tazer. Pucci remains jailed at the MCCF, while his passenger was released.
… and Stroud Area Regional Police also pulled over a vehicle recently on Bridge Street in Stroud Township, that turned up more than 40 bags of heroin and a large-caliber handgun with no serial numbers. A further investigation at the home of 18-year old Androty Perez revealed seven bags of cocaine, eight bundles of heroin and a .12-gauge shotgun. In addition to Drug Possession and related offenses, Perez faces several illegal gun possession charges and numerous traffic violations. He’s locked up in lieu of $100-thousand dollars bail at the Monroe County Correctional Facility.
Dansbury disturbance leads to three arrests
Three local men now face aggravated assault, simple assault, possessing instruments of crime, rioting and disorderly conduct charges for a disturbance at a popular basketball court in East Stroudsburg. Stroud Area Regional Police arrested Stephen Alvarez of Stroudsburg, Christopher Vargas of Effort and 19-year old Benjamin Moreira of Stroudsburg, for allegedly punching a 54-year old man in the face and threatening him with a knife when he came to the aid of his girlfriend, who was having problems with some ladies at Dansbury Park. Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies assisted regional police at the scene…and no one was seriously injured in the mini-melee.
Mattiolis and State and Regional Police crackdown on race weekends pays off
Many years ago, we (WSBG) used to report more serious crimes during the two summer races at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond. However, over these last few years, those crimes have greatly diminished, and now it's at ZERO ! We used to receive reports from police for stabbings, gun play, or deadly accidents and major infield assaults. Thankfully it hasn't been that way for about three summers. However, Pocono Mountain Regional Police and state troopers were kept busy during race weekend (June 5th and 6th), as they handed out 31 citations, mostly for disorderly conduct, public drunkeness, underage drinking, and the most serious crime -- DUI. Officers cited 8 people for driving under the influence after stopping them at sobriety checkpoints. A 17-year old Pocono Pines youngster was also nabbed with a small amount of marijuana, while a 26-year old Doylestown man had drug paraphernalia in his vehicle during a checkpoint stop. Officers also handed out 14 traffic tickets.
The Mattiolis also revoke the "offending fans" race tickets if they are cited or charged by police...which has helped cut down on the trouble.
Accused murderer Michael Parrish to plead guilty July 19th
A West End man accused of shooting and killing his girlfriend and their young son last summer (July), will plead guilty before Monroe County President Judge Ronald Vican on July 19th. Two months ago, Michael Parrish of Effort, said he was in a jealous rage when he killed Victoria Adams, and their 18-month old son, Sidney. However, the judge rejected that guilty plea, so now the former Monroe County Corrections Officer has a new attorney, and he'll try again next month. That defense attorney sat down with the prosecution and Judge Vican on Thursday (yesterday) to establish pre-plea details. Parrish will appear before Judge Vican in Courtroom #1 at 2:30 p.m. He remains jailed without bail.
Albrightsville man wanted on Child Porn charges turns surrenders to State Police
An Albrightsville man wanted for possession of child pornography has turned himself into state police earlier today (Thursday). Troopers at the Fern Ridge barracks issued an arrest warrant for 52-year old Raymond Pappas after a technician at a Stroud Township computer repair shop discovered what appeared to be child porn on his hard drive. Pappas took his PC to Computer Renaissance in January because it was giving him problems. The worker notified troopers, who obtained search warrants for Pappas' home and computer, and discovered nearly 35-hundred images of nude female children. Following his arraignment, he was sent to the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10-thousand dollars bail to await a preliminary hearing.
Table games are coming ! Table games are coming !
Table games could be up and ready for the public at Mount Airy casino resort near Mount Pocono by mid-July. Mount Airy plans to hold a test date for the new Poker, Roulette, Black Jack and other table games on July 11th. A test date is needed to determine if the casino is ready to operate “live” table gaming. Net revenue from that “low wage” test day will be given to charity. If everything goes well, the casino will offer table games to the general public on Tuesday, July 13th. The Pennsylvania Casino Control Commission says Mohegan Sun Casino at Pocono Downs (in Wilkes-Barre), and Hollywood Casino outside of Harrisburg will also hold test days on the 11th.
Hicks murder trial will be a Death Penalty case
The Monroe County District Attorney will seek the death penalty against a Coolbaugh Township man accused of brutally killing a woman on the mountain more than two years ago. State police have charged Charles Hicks with killing, then dismembering drifter, Deanna Null, in January of 2008. Her body parts were found scattered along Interstates 80 and 380, and also inside his Tobyhanna home. Monroe County President Judge, Ronald Vican this week, denied Hick's request to prevent the commonwealth from seeking the death penalty in his homicide case. Hicks remains jailed without bail.
Pressure Bombs found in Polk Township driveway; they did not explode
State police want to know who is responsible for a pair of chemical reaction pressure bottle bombs found in a Polk Township driveway last Friday. Troopers say the bombs were placed in the driveway along Cherry Road, sometime between 10 p.m. June 3rd and 8 a.m. June 4th. Investigators have not said if this was random act, or meant for the people who live on the property where the bottles were discovered. Chemical reaction pressure bottle bombs are considered to be dangerous. A chemical reaction pressure bottle bomb is usually a home-made device, that contains a combination of chemicals that are enclosed in a plastic container. The chemicals cause a reaction that builds pressure inside the bottle until it explodes. If you have any information on these homemade bombs, call the Lehighton barracks at 610-377-4270.
Dead fetus was a boy; Alleged father could face even more charges
A Kunkletown man remains jailed on $50-thousand dollars bail, and could face additional charges for his alleged sexual relationship with a 13-year old girl, and dead fetus. State police arrested 30-year old Michael Lisk earlier this week for his involvement with the girl and the male fetus that she tried to abort using a pencil. An autopsy indicates the boy was delivered stillborn, although just how far along the child was in the pregnancy wasn’t released. State police say Lisk buried the fetus in a wooded area along Middle Creek Road, and they uncovered the twisted details of this story after the girl was treated at Lehigh Valley Hospital for complications due to this botched abortion attempt. The girl continues to receive treatment, and will most likely not be charged in this case, but investigators say Lisk could face additional charges now that the autopsy has been completed.
Some affordable housing ready for qualified applicants in Monroe County
It’s like a much-needed drop of water in Monroe County’s “affordable housing dessert”. On Wednesday, Hamilton Manor and county officials cut the ribbon on the 42-unit, Skyline Heights development in Smithfield Township. The $12-million dollar, two and three-bedroom housing complex, was designed to help fill a need for local families of modest means – or those making 50 to 60-percent of the county’s median income (which is about $66-thousand dollars for a family of four). Hamilton Manor’s Sharon Taylor says six units have been set aside for renters with disabilities, while two units are for low-income families who qualify for Section “8” Housing. She says so far, they’ve rented seven units, while the Monroe County Housing Authority continues to review applications from 120 other families. ESSA Bank & Trust, Honesdale National Bank and the DIME Bank, chipped in to help fund this affordable housing project.
Murder trial for Scranton man ends with GUILTY verdict
The trial for a Scranton man accused in the beating death of a 22-year-old Tobyhanna man, ended with a conviction on Tuesday in Monroe County Court. It took the jury only three hours to find 34-year old Ralph Maldonado guilty of second and third-degree murder, robbery, and conspiracy to commit robbery. Stroud Area Regional Police arrested Maldonado and Myles White for robbing, beating and choking to death, Blake Natal, in the parking lot of the Quality Inn in Stroudsburg in January of 2009. Maldonado’s attorney said his client didn’t kill Natal, and that it was Myles White. The jury didn't buy it, and now Maldonado could spend the rest of his life in prison when he is sentenced in 60 days. White pleaded guilty to lesser charges last week, and was sentenced to serve 15 to 30 years in state prison.
Barrett Twp. Board of Supervisors Board full once again
Barrett Township lost its Board of Supervisors Chairman last month, but filled that vacancy last (Wed.) night, appointing construction company owner, Ralph Megliola of Canadensis. Megliola, who has lived in the township for 37 years, says his priority is to help straighten out the township’s finances and clean up persistent budget shortfalls. Phil Dente meanwhile, resigned, citing ongoing disagreements with fellow board members on how to deal with budget problems and other financial issues plaguing the township the last few years.
Budget Inn in East Stroudsburg robbed at Knifepoint
Stroud Area Regional Police say two masked men robbed the Budget Inn in East Stroudsburg early this (Tues.) morning, and assaulted the clerk. Police say the men, both wearing dark ski masks and gloves, walked in from the guest hallway just after 2 a.m., pulled out a large knife and demanded money. When the clerk didn’t respond right away, one of the men started taking cash from the register. The second suspect wanted money from the safe, but the employee said he didn’t have access to it and couldn’t open it. That’s when that robber leaned over the counter and punched the clerk in the face, dropping him to the floor. Both men then ran from the lobby and escaped through the guest hallway doors. Police say the robbers were both about 5 feet 9 inches tall, and wearing either blue or black jackets and jeans. The Budget Inn employee suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene. If you have any information on the crime, call 421-6800.
Bizzarre and disturbing "baby" case in the West End of Monroe County
State police say they’ve charged a 30-year-old Kunkletown man with rape, statutory sexual assault and several other offenses for his alleged relationship with a 13-year old girl. But what makes this case even more disturbing, troopers say the young girl was pregnant, and Michael Lisk buried the girl's fetus after she performed a home abortion on herself. Lehigh Valley Hospital officials notified state police on Sunday after the girl told them she used a lead pencil to carry out the procedure (last Wednesday). When she became very ill over the weekend, police say she phoned Lisk, who allegedly gave her instructions (advice), and later buried the fetus in a wooded area along Middle Creek Road. Troopers obtained search warrants and later interviewed Lisk, who turned the baby over to Troop N’s Forensic Services team. Following his arraignment, he was sent to the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50-thousand dollars bail. The girl continues to receive medical treatment and an autopsy determined the unborn child was a boy.
Another weekend filled with DUI arrests in the Poconos
State police were busy once again this past weekend making their share of DUI arrests in the Pocono region. So far, the weekend tally is a dozen with more expected, once other barracks and regional police departments send out their weekend reports based on activity on the mountain, and in the area around Pocono Raceway in Long Pond. Troopers say in addition to roving DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints, they made DUI arrests along Route 611 in Pocono Township, Route 33 in Hamilton Township, Route 209 in Sciota, Business 209 in Stroud Township, Route 209 in Middle Smithfield Township, and East Brown Street in East Stroudsburg. Those arrested were between 20 and 45 years of age. Troop and regional police commanders say this crackdown will continue throughout the year.
Recent Monroe County break-ins
A break in at the new AT&T Store in Bartonsville is now under investigation. State police say two white males, and a black male, in their early 20’s, pried open a rear door to the popular cell phone store just after 6:30 this (Mon.) morning, and tried to smash open a cabinet and steal merchandise. However, when that attempt failed, the men ran from the store without a thing, but were caught on surveillance video. The trio wore hats, masks and baggy pants. If you have any information, call 570-839-7701.
Two local men remain jailed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $20-thousand dollars bail each for allegedly stealing copper piping from the Buck Hill Inn. Barrett Township Police say they arrested 23-year old Michael Williams II of Bartonsville, and 24-year old Richard Schoch of Tannersville, after Buck Hill Falls Security Officers noticed what looked to be a disabled car parked near the Inn and noticed the two men walking around the property. Township police responded to the scene and discovered copper piping in the trunk of the car, and a large pile of copper cut from the walls, inside the Inn. Both Williams and Schoch face Burglary, Theft and Criminal Trespassing charges.
Despite late re-start, Denny Hamlin cruises to 4th NASCAR win in Long Pond
Denny Hamlin was just seconds away from winning his fourth NASCAR race at Pocono (Raceway) on Sunday, when the yellow caution flag came out. But the young driver kept his composure, and on the re-start, Hamlin pulled away from red-hot teammate Kyle Busch to win the Gillette Pro Glide 500 sponsored by Target race. It was also Hamlin’s fourth win of the season, and fourth at Pocono (which puts him solidly in third place in the chase standings).
Tony Stewart was third, and points leader, Kevin Harvick, finished fourth, but got into a post-race scrap with young Joey Logano. The budding Sprint Cup star talked with NASCAR officials following a pit road confrontation with Harvick, shortly after Harvick knocked him out of contention on the second to last lap (lap 198). Logano, who ended up 13th said, "It's probably not (Harvick's) fault. His wife wears the fire suit in the family, and tells him what to do, so it's probably not his fault." A massive wreck on the final lap also wiped out nine cars, with Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin and Kasey Kahne all involved. None of the drivers were injured, but Kahne was upset with teammate A.J. Allmendinger.
Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg School Districts to benefit from Federal Stimulus money
Federal Stimulus money and a recent Pennsylvania Department of Education decision means lower repayment costs for Stroudsburg's massive high school renovation and reconstruction project. Stroudsburg School District Superintendent John Toleno confirms that the district qualified for $17-million dollars worth of bargain-rate loans, which could mean a savings of up to $8-million dollars in loan repayment costs. The money to lower these interest rates was made available through the Qualified School Construction Bond program...and to qualify, Stroudsburg had to meet certain criteria like lowering energy consumption or building new science laboratories, which it has agreed to do.
The East Stroudsburg School District will also reap some of these low-interest loan rewards as it qualified to receive $1.2-million dollars (in low cost financing) to replace portions of the roof at the J.T. Lambert Intermediate School.
Woman has purse stolen while getting gas in West End; Someone steals a $30,000 Compressor from local Construction crew
A gas station stop at the Uni-Mart Sunoco on Route 209 in Chestnuthill Township, turns out to be very costly for a female customer. State Police at Fern Ridge say the woman's car was parked in front of pump #1 just after 6 p.m. Friday, when a white female with blonde hair, opened the passenger side door and removed a purse containing more than $375 in cash, a driver's license, social security card, credit and bank debit cards, a check book and various medications. A surveillance camera caught the crime on tape, and troopers are seeking additional information. If you can help out, please call 646-2271.
State police could use your help in trying to find who recently stole a very large compressor from a highway construction site in Hamilton Township. Troopers say someone drove away with a large green, 1977, tow behind compressor from the grass median at the Saylorsburg Exit of Route 33 southbound. The theft occurred sometime between Friday night, May 21st and Tuesday morning, May 25th. If you have any information, call Trooper Koza at 839-7701.
NASCAR plants trees as Gillette "young gun" driver helps out
In an effort to help reduce carbon emissions, NASCAR donated 80 trees that were planted in the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area on Thursday…and one of the planters was Gillette Young Gun race car driver, Ryan Newman. Newman says he loves the scenic beauty of the Poconos, and he’s pleased NASCAR is helping to offset the emissions from the race cars and making a difference. Newman has one win and two poles at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, and he says he’s looking forward to this weekend because he likes the “Tricky Triangle”, but he won’t use the car from last week in Charlotte. Practice and qualifying will take place today to determine the starting order for Sunday’s Gillette Fusion Pro Glide 500 by Target race.
Before and following the race, Route 115 traffic from Interstate 80 to the track will be one way southbound and then one way northbound. The two-lane southbound conversion will begin at 7 a.m., while the northbound lane changes will occur with about 40 laps remaining in the race.
… and state and regional police will team up this weekend to crack down on drunk and impaired drivers in Monroe, Carbon and Pike counties. Checkpoints and roving patrols will be used throughout this race weekend enforcement effort.
Man shot during an Attempted Home Invasion on the Mountain
Pocono Mountain Regional Police are trying to find two men responsible for a shooting at a home in the “A” Pocono Country Place development. Police tell WVPO/WSBG the pair tried to force their way into a Ventnor Drive home late Wednesday night. However, when the suspects were denied entry, police say they opened fire with a shotgun and a handgun through the home’s front door. A 20-year old man inside the house was shot in the upper leg and was taken to the hospital for treatment. No one else was injured. Police say the suspects are black males, who fled the scene in a dark-colored vehicle. If anyone has information on this crime, call 895-2400. All calls will remain confidential.
Suspected bank robber waives her hearing to M. C. Court
The Stroudsburg-area woman accused of robbing an ESSA Bank and Trust branch in Marshalls Creek, waived her right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday….and now, 20-year old Samantha Tullo will have her case heard in Monroe County Court. State police say Tullo walked into the bank on Route 209 (on May 25th), demanded money and left the bank with about $2-thousand dollars in cash. Thanks to a tip from a relative, troopers snagged Tullo the next day when they stopped a car along Interstate 80 in Delaware Water Gap. Tullo remains in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $100-thousand dollars bail awaiting further court action. Three others with her in the car, are also jailed on unrelated charges.
Charter School suing PMSD alleging Racism and Discrimination
Pocono Mountain Charter School officials, along with nine families of students, have filed a lawsuit against the Pocono Mountain School District in federal court in Scranton, alleging racial and religious discrimination. In the lawsuit, the charter school claims the district is forcing it to follow more rules than the nearby Evergreen Charter School, which is predominately white, while most of its students are minorities. In Pennsylvania, charter schools have to follow rules agreed to by both the school district and the charter school. The lawsuit comes as the district continues hearings to try to revoke Pocono Mountain's charter. Pocono Mountain School District officials cite a list of violations including a lack of student performance and an inappropriate relationship between the charter school and the church where it is located as a few reasons for its revocation attempt.
Former Pike official passes away
A former Pike County Commissioner has died. Gerry Hansen was found unresponsive inside his Dingman Township home on Tuesday. Hansen had been battling an undisclosed illness, but the Pike County Coroner’s Office has yet to release the (his) cause of death. Hansen served as commissioner -- from 2000 to 2004 – and was also a past president of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce (and former owner of Milford’s Dimmick Inn). Gerry Hansen was 73.
Crystal Street Diner owner dies from Crash Injuries
The owner of the Crystal Street Diner (in East Stroudsburg) has passed away, more than three months after his SUV crashed along an icy stretch of Interstate 80 in Carbon County. Forty-four year old Mohamed “Moe” Abouelmagd of East Stroudsburg died Wednesday morning from injuries he suffered in the accident that also claimed the life of his wife and one of their children (sons). State police say on February 23rd, Moe’s vehicle slid off the highway (near Lake Harmony), rolled over and hit a tree. Two of his other children survived the crash. His employees tell WSBG they’re grateful for the outpouring of support and condolences from his customers and friends.
Deadly holiday weekend in Pennsylvania
Sixteen people were killed and 290 others were injured in the 776 crashes investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police during the four-day Memorial Day holiday weekend. State Police Commissioner Frank Pawlowski says none of those who died were wearing a seat belt. Seventy of those 776 crashes, including two of the fatal accidents, were alcohol-related. Pawlowski says troopers also cited 924 individuals for not wearing seat belts and issued citations to 105 others for not securing children in safety seats. Troopers also issued over 8-thousand (8,096) speeding tickets and arrested 371 people for driving under the influence. During last year’s Memorial Day holiday, nine people died and 309 others were injured in 712 crashes to which state troopers responded.
Local burglaries -- "Crime of the Week"
The Stroud Area Regional Police Department continues its investigation into a series of daylight burglaries in the region, and they could use your assistance. Most of these burglaries (which took place during the week of May 20th) occurred during working hours. Jewelry has been the primary item of choice, however, electronics have also been stolen. Police say the targeted homes are in both residential or secluded areas. A late 90’s, navy blue mini-van has been seen in the area of several of these break-ins, and it may, or may not be connected. If you have information on this "Crime Of The Week", or any other serious crime or wanted Person, call Monroe County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-370-1518. All calls will remain confidential and you could be eligible for a cash reward.
I-80 traffic restrictions lifted for Race Weekend !
There’s good news for drivers who travel the Interstate 80 corridor. Construction work between the 80/380 split and Route 115 in Blakeslee has been suspended until early next week. Traffic will be unimpeded through both westbound lanes from now through race weekend. Drivers have complained of long delays and major traffic congestion as crews re-pave that stretch of Interstate 80. Penn Dot’s Sean Brown says lane restrictions will return Tuesday.
One of two murder defendants pleads guilty in MC Court
A former New York City man, who moved to East Stroudsburg with his family many years ago, has admitted taking part in the robbery and killing of a Tobyhanna man last year outside the Quality Inn in Stroudsburg. Myles White pleaded guilty on Tuesday in Monroe County Court to third-degree murder, and apologized to the family of 22-year old Blake Natal. He now faces 15 to 30 years in state prison. Stroud Area Regional Police say White, and 34-year old Ralph Maldonado of Scranton, targeted Natal on the night of January 15th, 2009. As Natal attempted to enter the hotel, officers say the men demanded money. When he wouldn’t give it to them, police say they beat and choked him to death, then stole his wallet, credit card and cell phone. White also agreed to testify against Maldonado, who’s trial will start sometime within the next week. Jury selection began this (Wed.) morning at the county courthouse.
Traffic stop leads to mountain drug arrests
Three Monroe County residents, including a father and son, are now jailed on drug possession and intent to deliver charges following a traffic stop in Tunkhannock Township. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say 52-year old Robert Mozelesky, Sr., 29-year old Robert Mozelesky, Jr., and 23-year old Melissa Dennis, were pulled over Saturday on Sullivan Trail in Long Pond. Officers say a search of the vehicle turned up 41 bags of heroin, prescription drugs and other drug paraphernalia.
New Jersey man drowns in Delaware River on Memorial Day
A 31-year old Union, New Jersey man is dead following an outing at Milford Beach on Memorial Day Monday afternoon. National Park Service officials say the man was hanging out with friends when he tried to swim across the Delaware River, but then disappeared under the water’s surface. NPS spokesperson Deborah Nordeen says emergency crews arrived quickly, but any attempt at a rescue soon turned to a recovery. The Pike County Coroner was called to the scene at about 3:30 p.m., when the victim's body was pulled from the water. Nordeen wants to remind residents, and visitors, never attempt to swim across the river. She says people are fooled by the apparent calmness of the water, but cannot see deep pockets, along with strong currents under the surface, that can lead to a deadly outcome. The name of the victim has yet to be released.
Stroudsburg fire displaces two families; one temporarily
A late night fire heavily damages a Stroudsburg home. The fire broke out just before midnight Monday in a double-block home on Second Street. Stroudsburg fire officials say the blaze caused significant damage to one half of the double home, but only smoke damage to the other side. Everyone inside the homes made it out safely, and no one was injured. Fire crews say the cause of the blaze doesn’t appear to be suspicious, but it remains under investigation.
Cannon in Courthouse Sqaure taken out by out of control driver
Stroud Area Regional Police are still investigating an accident that wiped out one of two cannons at the Doughboy Memorial in Courthouse Square in Stroudsburg. The accident occurred late Thursday night as the driver lost control of his car on North 7th Street. It jumped the curb and plunged through the square, slammed into the cast iron cannon, and came to rest on Monroe Street in front of the old Courthouse. Witnesses told police the driver didn’t appear to be seriously injured as he got out of the mangled car and walked around. No other details have been made available. By the way, the crash will not affect Memorial Day Monday ceremonies in the square after the parade.
Three Weis Market employees arrested for Theft operation
Three Stroudsburg area men are now in jail for allegedly stealing nearly $100-thousand dollars worth of merchandise, mostly cigarettes, from Weis Markets over the last 18 to 24 months. Stroud Area Regional Police say Weis’ Loss Prevention Specialists reviewed in house surveillance tapes on April 30th, and saw three members of the store’s night crew removing cartons of cigarettes from the Customer Service Counter. The men then placed the cigarettes in plastic bags, left them near a back door, and loaded them into a crew member’s vehicle. A week later, a Weis surveillance team caught the trio trying to hide garbage bags containing about $6-thousand dollars worth of cigarettes inside one of their cars. Regional Police say 24-year old James S. Accatino, Jr., and 23-year old James Wolfertz, both of Stroudsburg, and 27-year old Richard L. Braun, Jr. of East Stroudsburg turned themselves in this week. They are charged with Criminal Conspiracy and Theft by Unlawful Taking, while Accatino also faces a marijuana possession charge.
Marshalls Creek ESSA Bank & Trust robbed, suspects arraigned
The "Pink Bandit" has been arraigned (via closed-circuit TV) on robbery, theft and related charges for a hold up Tuesday morning at the ESSA Bank & Trust branch in Marshalls Creek. State police say they used video surveillance and investigative information (a tip from a relative) to nab 20-year old Samantha Jo Tullo of Stroudsburg along Interstate 80 in Delaware Water Gap Wednesday afternoon. Troopers say Tullo wore a pink baseball cap and pink sneakers when she walked into the bank and demanded money from a teller, and then nonchalantly walked out with a plastic bag filled with $2,000 in cash. Police received information that she was riding in a dark blue Hyundai Elantra with 35-year old Michael Vines of Tobyhanna and heading back into Pennsylvania. Vines was arrested for a local parole violation, while two others in the car, 28-year old Angelo Zarra and 26-year old Nicole McCarthy of Staten Island, are charged with drug-related offenses. McCarthy also faces charges of receiving stolen property. All four remain in the Monroe County Correctional Facility awaiting further court action.
Easton woman off to jail for her part in kidnap and murder case in Pike County
An Easton woman implicated in the kidnapping and shooting death of a Bethlehem man in June of 2007 (three years ago), has been sentenced in Pike County Court to serve six months to two years in state prison. Thirty-six year old Dawn Atwell had pleaded guilty several months ago to hindering prosecution charges. State police charged Atwell along with her husband, Joseph Atwell and Jesus Rosario Torres of Harrisburg, for the killing of Norman Domenech, but she pleaded guilty to lesser charges and cooperated with prosecutors in the case. A Pike County jury found her husband and Rosario-Torres guilty of Murder and a judge eventually sentenced them to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Their attorney plans to appeal the verdict.
Monroe County man killed in building accident
A 56-year-old Gilbert, Pa. man, who fell last week at a business under construction in Upper Mount Bethel Township, has passed away. Lehigh County Deputy Coroner Paul Hoffman says
Harold Gunderman died after falling about 11 feet from a mezzanine on May 18th, inside a building at 5010 River Road. Hoffman said Gunderman died from a head injury, and his death was an accident. Representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration had visited the site, but have not commented or released a report on the accident. Gunderman worked for a subcontractor under Specialized Storage Systems of New Jersey.
Corrections Officer and Mom of an inmate now jailed after Drug Sting
Four people, including a local corrections officer and two inmates, are charged with smuggling drugs at the Monroe County Correctional Facility. A month-long investigation (involving Monroe County Detectives, the state police and the Pa. Attorney General’s Office) wrapped up Saturday with the arrests of 31-year old Matthew Knowles of Brodheadsville, 58-year old Patricia Dru Petruzzi of Reeders, her son, 26-year old Daniel Petruzzi, and his cellmate, 23-year old Nick Capsis of Stroudsburg.
The arrest affidavit says Patricia Petruzzi began meeting with Knowles back in February at various locations throughout the county, where she'd provide him with drugs and money that he would take to work with him. Knowles would then slip the drugs and other contraband to Petruzzi's son and cellmate. Investigators executed a search warrant (Sat.) at the jail and found drugs and other related evidence inside Petruzzi’s cell. All four are now charged with Criminal Conspiracy, Drug Possession, Drug Delivery and related offenses.
Pennsylvania's roads get a "near failing" Grade
Pennsylvania's roads are getting worse. A new report released today by the American Society of Civil Engineers says the state's roads get a grade of D-minus. That is down from the D the engineers gave Pennsylvania's roads in a 2006 report. The grade for the state's transit systems also went down, from a D-plus to a D-minus, while its bridges stayed at a C. The ASCE says the state's bridges would be worse if it weren't for stepped up efforts, including the use of $390-million dollars in federal stimulus money for repairs. The 2010 Report Card for Pennsylvania's Infrastructure gave the state an overall grade of D-plus.
Traffic stop identifies "local fugitive"; driver faces drug charges
A weekend traffic stop leads to the arrest of two men, including one local fugitive. State police say they pulled over a car for several moving violations while driving eastbound along Interstate 80 in Pocono Township Saturday afternoon. Troopers say 30-year old Andre Joseph Nash of (Charolette) Florida gave them permission to search the vehicle, and they uncovered a dozen (12) baggies of heroin and two hypodermic needles under the driver’s seat. Further investigation determined 28-year old back seat passenger, Colby (Dylan) Huff of Stroudsburg, was a fugitive and wanted for a theft charge by Pocono Mountain Regional Police. Both men now remain jailed in at the Monroe County Correctional Facility.
Barrett woman may be tried again for husband's 2001 Murder
A Monroe County woman convicted of killing her husband in Paradise Township could get a new trial later this year. 75-year old Eleanor Nicolosi is serving a life sentence for the shooting death of Francis Nicolosi in 2001. In 2005, a Monroe County jury found Mrs. Nicolosi guilty of murdering her 62-year old husband at the couple’s home, stuffing his body in a carpet and then dumping it in a field. A higher court overturned Nicolosi’s first-degree murder conviction on appeal, and her case could return to trial, possibly in October. However, a new trial date has been continued several times over the past two years.
Pike jury deadlocks on death sentence for Convicted Murderers
A Pike County jury deliberated more than four hours Thursday, but couldn’t decide whether convicted murderers Joseph Atwell of Easton and Jesus Rosario-Torres of Harrisburg should be put to death, or spend the rest of their lives in jail without parole. Under Pennsylvania law, if the jury that convicted a defendant, or defendants, cannot sentence them to death, the trial judge must impose a sentence that's no more than the minimum, which in this case is life behind bars. The pair will be formally sentenced on June 4th. Atwell and Rosario-Torres were found guilty last (Thurs.) week of kidnapping 31-year old Norman Domenech of Bethlehem, shooting him to death, then dumping his body near the entrance to a Porter Township hunting camp in June of 2007.
Bomb threat texted Poc. Mt. School District student
State Police at Swiftwater expect to make an arrest soon regarding a threat to bomb a local (intermediate) school. Troopers say a 13-year old Henryville girl received a text message early last week that stated the sender was going to bomb Swiftwater Intermediate School. No threat was carried out, but police take these kinds of things seriously. Anyone with additional information is asked to call 839-7701.
Local burglaries under investigation
A Hamilton Township man is out several hundred dollars in cash and other belongings following a burglary at his Kelly Road home. Troopers from the Swiftwater barracks say the break-in took place (occurred) sometime between Thursday at noon, and 4:30 Friday afternoon. Besides $700-dollars in cash, the thieves also stole a television and a watch. If you have any information on this burglary, please call 839-7701.
Another new home construction site in Monroe County is hit by copper thieves. State police say someone entered a home in the Evergreen “3” development in Middle Smithfield Township recently, and cut and removed copper electrical wire and then fled the scene. The copper wire was the only thing taken. The home is being constructed by Delta Homes of Marshalls Creek.
Series of burglaries under investigation in Stroudsburg area
In the wake of several burglaries in the Stroudsburg/East Stroudsburg/Stroud Township areas over the last week, local police need your help. Stroud Area Regional Police urge residents to stay alert and keep their eyes open, especially during daytime, business hours. Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says thieves have targeted jewelry and electronics items, and they strike in both neighborhoods and secluded areas. A late 1990’s navy blue mini-van has been seen in the areas where these burglaries have occurred, and this vehicle may, or may not be involved. If you have any information on these crimes, or if you see suspicious activity, call 421-6800.
Woman grabs gun during argument; boy disarms her and leaves house
A Middle Smithfield Township woman faces Reckless Endangerment charges for allegedly threatening a 16-year old boy with a gun. State police say 35-year old Rahkia Lee Harris and the youngster got into an argument Saturday afternoon, and during that exchange, Harris grabbed a .38-caliber pistol and told the boy to leave or he may get shot. Police say that’s when the teenager took the gun from Harris and fled the scene. The boy and the weapon were located near Mountain Road a short time later.
Massive Strbg. High School project gets some good news
There’s some good news regarding the Stroudsburg High School renovation and reconstruction project. Bids opened up this week have come in about $10-million dollars less than the original estimates of $72-million dollars. These are hard cost estimates, and don’t include project soft costs like architectural fees, fixtures and equipment expenses, or the purchase and demolition of several homes and a few businesses around the high school. School Board members will officially vote on the bid recommendations during next Wednesday night’s meeting.
PUC suspends PPL's latest rate hike request
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has voted to look more deeply into PPL Electric Utilities request to raise distribution rates for residential customers. On Thursday, the PUC voted 3 to 1 to suspend the rate hike request for seven months, and assign the case to an Administrative Law Judge for hearings, and a decision or settlement by December 31st (of this year). Under PPL’s proposal to raise distribution rates by $114-million dollars, the monthly bill for the average residential customer (those who use 1,000 kwh) would rise by roughly $7.50.
Water Gap Diner has re-opened
It’s a celebration of sorts today in the Borough of Delaware Water Gap, as the family of Rigis Ioannidis, re-opened the Water Gap Diner this (Fri.) morning. The popular diner had been closed since a deliberately set fire claimed the life of Ioannidis several months ago, and extensively damaged his apartment and the diner. His family, which is no stranger to cleaning up and re-opening the diner following several floods, had been working tirelessly over these last many weeks to re-open the diner to keep their father’s memory and legacy alive.
Meanwhile, state police are still trying to find the arsonist responsible for Ioannidis death.
Thrills continue (for now) at Reeders "topless bar"
For some, the “thrills” remain at a controversial nightclub in Reeders – at least for the next two weeks. Monroe County President Judge Ronald Vican is expected to rule (after Memorial Day) on an injunction filed by Jackson Township, challenging the existence of a “topless” club in an area that is not zoned for that type of entertainment. During a three-hour court hearing yesterday (Wed.), Thrills attorney and club manager, Ira Weiner, said the township’s zoning ordinance is too vague. However, testimony by a former township supervisor said this topless entertainment is "adult cabaret", which is allowed in an industrial zone, but not a commercial zone. Judge Vican also allowed a videotape, recorded by a township hired investigator, which showed the man getting a lap dance, which featured a lot of "touching". Thrills opened as a “bikini bar” in March, but earlier this month, went topless because Weiner said that’s what the customers wanted. So until the judge rules, Weiner says it will be business as usual.
Penn Hills up for tax sale in September
The former Penn Hills Resort is going up for tax sale. Monroe County Tax Claim Bureau Director, Greg Christine confirms that the resort property along Route 191 in Analomink, will be the subject of a tax sale on September 15th. The resort’s owners have struggled paying their taxes since 2006, and now find themselves about $1.3-million dollars in arrears. Christine says Penn Hills had been on a payment plan for its back taxes, but the payments stopped once the resort closed for good in April of 2009, after co-founder Frances Poalillo passed away at the age of 102.
Former Stroudsburg Law Enforcement officer is laid to rest
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of former Stroudsburg, and Stroud Area Regional Police Lieutenant, Jack Rundle. Jack passed away over the weekend after a long battle with cancer, and was laid to rest following services on Wednesday at St. John’s Evangelical Congregational Church in Hamilton Township. Jack was a very good man and a dedicated family man and law enforcement professional, with whom WSBG worked closely over the years. We will surely miss him. Jack Rundle was 67.
Jackson Twp. barn fire is Arson
A fire that destroyed an abandoned barn along Sherwood Forrest Road in JacksonTownship, was deliberately set. State police say the barn, owned by the township, was set ablaze at about 10 o’clock Tuesday night. No one was injured, but the barn was destroyed. Troopers say a witness told them they saw a newer model black pick-up truck with oversized tires and a suspension lift kit, parked in front of the barn with its lights on, about 20 minutes before fire crews arrived at the scene. If you have any information on this arson, call 570-646-2271.
Three people arrested for local break-ins
Local residents help police catch would-be burglars this past weekend in Stroudsburg and Stroud Township.
Stroud Area Regional Police say two members of the Poalillo family went to check on the now vacant Penn Hills Resort property in Analomink because of a recent break-ins and thefts. They came across a GMC Jimmy parked on the property, saw two people inside the rear patio area tearing out copper piping (plumbing), and confronted them. Police say a juvenile then jumped into the SUV, rammed Poalillo’s vehicle, sped away, and crashed into a telephone pole. The second suspect, 29-year old Alvin Morales, ran away and was found hiding in the Analomink Hotel. He now faces Burglary, Theft and several other charges, while the 16-year old will be charged with similar crimes. Police are also investigating to see if these two were involved in previous thefts from the closed resort.
… and then early Saturday morning, police say 24-year old Devin Ayala of Stroudsburg broke into a Sarah Street home through a screened-in porch door, which set off an alarm. That woke up a (68-year old) woman sleeping downstairs. She was able to wake up her 74-year old husband, who answered her call with a gun, and held Ayala at bay until officers arrived. He is charged with Burglary, Disorderly Conduct and Public Drunkenness.
Palmerton couple charged for death of their toddler
Following a four-month investigation, state police have charged two Palmerton parents in connection with the death of their baby girl. Investigators from the "Troop N" Major Case Unit arrested Kimberly Ann Taschler, and Jacob (Adam) Taschler this morning (Tues.), and charged them with Involuntary Manslaughter, Reckless Endangerment and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The police report says KimTaschler walked into Palmerton Hospital on January 20th with her 11-month old daughter, Kayla Marie, who was already dead. The Carbon County District Attorney contacted state police to investigate the death (and an autopsy determined the child didn't die from natural causes). The Taschlers were arraigned before District Judge Homanko and sent to the Carbon County Jail in lieu of high bail.
Primary Election ousts longtime Pa. Senator from Washington, D.C.
He did a lot of good things while in Washington, D.C. for Pennsylvania, and stepped up to help save the Tobyhanna Army Depot from closing several years ago, but for Arlen Specter, his long U.S. Senate career comes to a close at the end of this year. The Democrat turned Republican, then back to Democrat, was beaten in Tuesday’s primary election showdown with Congressman, Joe Sestak. Despite very close popularity polls leading up to the election, Sestak pulled away to win with 54-percent of the vote, compared to 46-percent for Specter. Sestak will now take on Republican victor, and former Lehigh Valley Congressman, Pat Toomey in November.
The race for Pennsylvania Governor comes down to Allegheny County Executive Director Dan Onorato, and Republican Attorney General, Tom Corbett. Onorato picked up 45-percent of the vote in a four-person race for his party’s nomination, while Corbett cruised to the GOP win over State Representative Sam Rohrer, attracting 69-percent of the vote.
Elsewhere in northeast Pennsylvania, 10th District Congressman Chris Carney ran unopposed on the Democratic ticket, and he’ll battle the GOP winner, and former U.S. Attorney, Thomas Marino, this fall to keep his seat in Washington...and finally, Democratic Congressman, Paul Kanjorski, will take on a familiar foe in the general election, Hazleton Mayor, Lou Barletta (a Republican). Barletta lost in a close race with Kanjorski in the last election.
MCTI classes cancelled because of "False Emergency"
The Monroe County Career and Technical Institute cancelled classes this (Tues.) morning for an undisclosed emergency, which was later determined to be a false alarm. School director, Pat Moyer says they turned away buses, and those students were returned to their home schools. She didn't provide details about the "false emergency", but state police are investigating. Afternoon classes will be held as usually scheduled.
Man involved in crash that killed Senator Rhoades is now out of jail
An Albrightsville man involved in a three-vehicle crash that claimed the life of Pennsylvania State Senator James Rhoades, is now out of jail and on parole. Thomas Senavitis has been credited with serving a 300 day sentence in the Monroe County Correctional Facility for Reckless and Driving Under the Influence in connection with that deadly accident. State police arrested Senavitis for the head-on collision along Route 209 near Gilbert, that killed Senator Rhoades and seriously injured his wife (in October of 2008). Earlier this year, a county jury determined there was not enough evidence to prove that Senavitis' pick-up truck crossed the center line and caused the accident. He was acquitted of vehicular homicide charges. In addition to a year of parole, Senavitis also loses his driving privileges for one year, and he's been ordered to pay a $1,000 fine.
Traffic stop leads to large drug bust along I-380
A routine traffic stop in Coolbaugh Township leads state police to a large drug stash inside a passenger van. Troopers from the Swiftwater barracks pulled over the vehicle in the northbound lanes of Interstate 380 late last week (during the early morning hours). After police received permission to search the van, front seat passenger Eddie Bryant of Scranton, allegedly tossed aside a bag of marijuana while he opened a rear hatch. A further search turned up three bricks of heroin, or 330 packets, that were sitting out in plain view. Police say the drugs were on their way from Brooklyn to Binghamton, New York. Bryant, driver Angela Pero of Endicott, New York, and two New York City men, now face criminal conspiracy and drug possession with the intent to deliver charges. They remain in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $100-thousand dollars bail each.
Man accidentally shoots himself in Middle Smithfield Township
A Brodheadsville man is seriously injured after police say he accidentally shot himself in the leg. Troopers say the 32-year old was handling what he thought was an empty .40-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver along Big Bear Drive in Middle Smithfield Township recently, when he pulled the trigger, and a bullet discharged into his left leg (police say the slug entered below the man's knee and exited through the outer part of his lower leg). Bushkill EMS transported him to the Pocono Medical Center where he was treated and eventually released.
"Run for the Red" Marathon another HUGE success
It was a perfect day to run a marathon…and a perfect day for the Monroe County Chapter of the American Red Cross to run such an event. On Sunday, 13-hundred runners participated in the 26-mile run that wound throughout Monroe County, along with a 5-K fun run and a two-person relay race. The skies were sunny and the temperature was cool, and that was just fine with now two-time Run for the Red Marathon winner, Bryan Morseman, of Addison, New York. Morseman also set a course record, winning in a time of 2 hours, 21 minutes, 43 seconds. 2006 winner, Solomon Too came in second.
The top female finisher was Michele Suszek, who also turned in a new record time for the ladies of 2 hours, 39 minutes, .03 seconds. The amazing thing about the Longmont, Colorado woman’s effort ? She wasn’t totally healthy, still healing up from a March car accident, in which she suffered a serious rub injury. Morseman and Suszek each pocketed $2-thousand dollars in first place prize money.
...and the 5-K (3.1-mile) fun run winner was a local man. Stroudsburg cross-country coach, Evan Griswold, of East Strousburg, said it was an ideal day for running, and a flate course through Stroudsburg and Stroud Township, made for an outstanding day. Along with raising money for a good cause.
Monroe County residents dropping the "Census Ball" !!!
Monroe County residents need to get on the stick and make sure they submit their census information within these next several weeks. State Representative Mario Scavello says the county is lagging way behind neighboring counties like Northampton, Luzerne and Carbon counties. So far, only 55-percent of Monroe County residents have returned census data to the federal government. Scavello says no matter what your political views or affiliation, census information is important to bring needed funding, programs and representation to the county in which you live. He tells SBG news that for every person who does not participate in the census, the county loses $1,300 in funding. It is too late to send in the forms now, but census takers are going door-to-door to collect your information, or you can call 1-866-872-6868 (it only takes a few minutes). The deadline to have your census information completed is July 10th.
Double Murder trial in Pike County ends with guilty verdicts
Two men accused of taking a man to Porter Township, Pike County to kill him, and dump his body near a hunting camp two summers ago, have been convicted of first-degree murder and other charges. It took a Pike County jury twelve hours to deliver a verdict, but they came back with convictions on Thursday for 35-year old Joseph Atwell of Easton, and 47-year old Jesus Rosario-Torres of Harrisburg. The prosecution said the men retaliated against 31-year old Norman Domenech for allegedly stealing drugs and money from Atwell and his wife, who pleaded guilty to lesser charges. Jurors heard nine days of testimony before delivering their verdicts. That same jury will determine a sentence when they reconvene on Monday. Both men face the death penalty or life in prison without parole. The defense attorney says he
plans to appeal the convictions.
Longtime Stroudsburg High Schhol teacher and football coach to retire
Stroudsburg teaching and football icon, Fred Ross is going to retire -- from the classroom. School District Superintendent John Toleno confirms Ross has filed his retirement papers after 41 years in front of a science or biology classroom. Ross plans to stay on as the Mounties' head football coach because he says he's excited about some of the advantages to the football program from theupcoming high school renovation and reconstruction project. One of the enticing things for Ross is the plan to install "Natural Turf" at the footbnall stadium named after him (Ross-Stulgaitis Stadium).
Trial continues in Monroe Cty. Court for alleged West End sex offender
A 57-year old Kunkletown man accused of sexually assaulting a young boy is expected to take the witness stand later today in Monroe County Court. The trial for Donald Kemmerer got underway Tuesday, and the alleged victim, whose is now 8 years old, testified in graphic detail what Kemmerer supposedly did to him back in December 2008. Kemmerer’s attorney told the jury, “children don’t always tell the truth”. Kemmerer is facing several charges, including involuntary deviant sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
Middle Smithfield burns Debris...DEP says that broke the law
Despite a warning and fine from the state Department of Environmental Protection, Middle Smithfield Township work crews were told to burn yard waste and wood debris to complete a recent township waste collection and drop off effort. Township supervisor chairman, Scott Schaller says they did nothing wrong and it was a controlled burn near the township’s municipal building. However, the DEP says the township violated a law banning the burning of solid waste, and it was out of compliance with the Solid Waste Management Act. Schaller says the bulk waste clean-up was a huge success, and they saved a lot of money by burning the items that could be burned. They plan to landfill of recycle items that could not be burned, like 2-thousand tires.
Stroud woman arrested for fight and stabbing incident
Stroud Area Regional Police have arrested a 29-year old Stroud Township woman for allegedly stabbing another person during a domestic dispute in the front yard of a home on Pokona Avenue this (Tues.) morning. Police say Elizabeth McCollin got into an argument with her girlfriend, and allegedly punched her in the face. When a friend came to intervene (help), officers say McCollin stabbed that woman once in the upper body. McCollin then fled the scene in her car, while both women drove themselves to the hospital, where they were treated and released. McCollin was taken into custody a short time later and now faces aggravated assault, two counts of simple assault, and harassment charges.
Pa. State Police very busy making DUI arrests in 2009; it continues this year
The Pennsylvania State Police say they made a record number of DUI arrests last year while the number of alcohol-related fatalities dropped more than 10-percent. Commissioner Frank Pawlowski says troopers made 16,900 DUI arrests in 2009, a 4-percent increase over the previous year. At the same time, the number of alcohol-related fatalities investigated by troopers dropped from 161 to 141. The state police released numbers today (Tues.) which showed the number of all alcohol-related crashes was also down slightly. Pawlowski says expansion of their drug recognition expert program deserves some of the credit, and the number of drug-influence evaluations rose from 693 in 2008 to 1,118 last year. By the way, the number of DUI arrests are also on the rise here in Monroe County for the first three months of this year, compared to the first quarter of last year (2009).
Famed Fantasy Artist/Illustrator Frank Frazetta, Sr. passes away
World-renowned fantasy artist Frank Frazetta, Sr. passed away this (Mon.) afternoon at a Florida hospital. His business managers say the elder Frazetta died from a stroke. He was 82. Frazetta was known far and wide for his work that graced album covers, movie posters, comic strips, books and magazines, and until late last year, his museum in Marshalls Creek. Frazetta started his professional career as a comic book, and comic strip illustrator in the 1940's. He eventually began drawing for the syndicated comic strip, "Lil' Abner", and also did highly recognizable illustrations for Tarzan and Conan the Barbarian books. His artwork appeared in Newsweek, Esquire and National Lampoon, and his illustrations, paintings, sculptures, and other related works are worth millions and millions of dollars. Frazetta lived in Marshalls Creek and had been spending time with his daughter in Florida for the last many months. He is survived by two sons and two daughters. The family will hold private funeral services.
Bomb Scare at W.W.H.S. Prom ends the party early !
Students at WesternWayneHigh School cut their prom short after a bomb threat was called in to the resort where they had planned to have the time of their lives. State police at Blooming Grove say the prom was disrupted Saturday night when someone called in the threat to Ehrhardt's Waterfront Resort (along LakeWallenpaupack). Troopers say a male caller demanded that all the boys leave the prom while the girls stay inside or he'd detonate a bomb hidden inside the banquet facility. All of the students were immediately evacuated from the restaurant in Hawley, and police searched the premises and found nothing. However, the students decided to end the party early because of the scare. Troopers believe the call was a prank but they’re continuing to investigate and say they will fully prosecute whoever is responsible.
Search is on for Missing Carbon County Girl
State Police at the Lehighton barracks need your help in locating a western Pocono teenager missing since Saturday night. Troopers say they’re trying to locate 16-year old Emily Shook of Carbon County. Shook’s parents say the girl was at their Green Valley Drive home and dressed for bed, and then sometimes after 8 p.m. noticed she was no longer in the house. State police responded with a K-9 dog and searched the area in and around the home, but found no signs of the teenager. There were no signs of a struggle, or evidence of foul play, and her disappearance is a mystery. Emily Shook has shoulder-length blonde hair, and may have been wearing a gray tank top, plaid shorts and white sneakers when she went missing. If you have any information on here whereabouts, contact Trooper Finn at 610-377-4270.
Two-vehicle crash on I-80 in Strbg. claims one life
A two-vehicle crash shut down Interstate 80 eastbound in Stroudsburg for more than five hours this (Fri.) morning. But worse than that, a young man from Marshalls Creek lost his life. State police say 23-year old Michael Mussone was traveling near MM 306 just after 3 a.m., when he lost control and his SUV ran onto the right shoulder. As Mussone attempted to regain control, his vehicle hit another eastbound car, which caused him to spin, slam into the guardrail and overturn. Troopers say he was thrown from the SUV and died at the scene. The other driver, 19-year old Melissa Garay of Bushkill, escaped injury. Accident reconstruction teams shut down both lanes of the Interstate between the Main Street and Park Avenue exits until just after 8:30 a.m.
Alleged Times Square attempted bomber bought fireworks in the Poconos
A Connecticut man accused of trying to explode a car bomb in Times Square last weekend, made a visit to the Poconos in March to buy fireworks that officials say were used in the construction of that failed device. The “Associated Press” reports that Faisal Shahzad purchased several boxes of “36 Silver Salute M-88” fireworks, and two shells that shoot explosives into the air, from the Phantom Fireworks store off Interstate 84 in Matamoras, Pike County on March 8th. However, the company’s president said the items Shahzad bought for less than $100 dollars were not that powerful, but if they were purchased illegally, the outcome could have been totally different. Bruce Zoldan says fireworks bought on the black market can be up to 1-thousand times more powerful. Shahzad was charged on Tuesday with trying to detonate the crude explosive (inside an SUV he purchased) in the heart of Times Square. The attempt was unsuccessful.
Double Murder trial continues in Pike County
It’s been almost a week since a “double-murder” trial got underway in Pike County Court…and those involved in the trial of Easton’s Joseph Atwell and Jesus Rosario Torres of Harrisburg, say it could continue for another week. Testimony will resume this morning surrounding the shooting death of Norman Domenech back in the summer of 2007. State police say the men kidnapped Domenech, who had stayed at Atwell’s Forks Township home, and then killed him and dumped his body near the entrance to a Porter Township hunting camp.
Middle Smithfield Twp. passes controversial Zoning Ordinance
Unfortunately, it’s becoming the norm at public hearings and meetings in Middle Smithfield Township, as angry residents have to be calmed down or ushered out of the meeting room by law enforcement. Again, things got heated during a four-hour meeting on Wednesday, where the Middle Smithfield Township Supervisors finally voted, two to one, to pass a controversial zoning ordinance to allow adult entertainment facilities along the Route 209 corridor, and to no longer allow new churches to spring up in the re-zoned area. By the way, the township’s Zoning Hearing Board will have the final say on these types of applications, and not the supervisors.
Supervisor Bob Spano, who wants to convert Werry’s Pub to a strip club, tried to abstain from voting citing a conflict of interest, but was told by the township’s solicitor, that he had to break the tie vote.
Commissioners buying up Open Space in the West End
The Monroe County Commissioners will pony up one-million dollars to put toward the purchase of 250-acres in the West End of the county to preserve open space. On Wednesday, the commissioners voted to free up some of the county’s open space money to buy the Frantz property in Chestnuthill Township for a total of $3-million dollars. Up until just a few years ago, that acreage was destined to become a housing development.
New student housing coming to ESU ???
More (and better) student housing could be on the way for those attending, or planning to attend East Stroudsburg University. This week, East Stroudsburg Borough Council members got to hear, and see, details of a plan to build a new student housing complex at the corner of Normal and Smith Streets. The University is seeking permits to remove two existing dorm buildings and replace them with apartment style units and other living quarters that could house up to 800 students. East Stroudsburg Council members now have 45-days to approve, recommend changes, or turn down the university’s proposal.
The Carlton House may rise from the "Ashes" !!
The burnt out Carlton House apartment building at the corner of 8th and Main Streets in Stroudsburg may soon rise from the ashes. Local commercial real estate agent, Michael Baxter, says several prospective buyers have talked about putting higher end apartments inside the large brick structure, or maybe tearing it down altogether, and constructing a brand new apartment building. Baxter has yet to identify a specific buyer, but says a deal could be reached within the next several weeks. The Carlton House had housed 45, mostly lower income tenants, who have struggled to find other places to live since the fire gutted the building six months ago.
Alleged Pike County home invader jailed; Police looking for second suspect
A Hawley, Pennsylvania man is jailed in lieu of 100-thousand dollars bail for allegedly breaking into a Matamoras home and terrorizing a couple living there. State Police at Blooming Grove say they arrested 28-year old Shakeel Waller, and are still looking for a second suspect in a Pike County home invasion Tuesday night. Troopers say a gun was fired inside the house and a bullet pierced a window, but both occupants were found uninjured when they arrived at the scene. Waller is housed in the Pike County Jail facing aggravated assault, burglary and several firearms charges. No other details have been released about the second suspect.
Colonial Academy student accused of stealing and crashing SUV in the Slate Belt
A 14-year old East Stroudsburg boy is in custody after allegedly stealing a car and causing some concern in the Slate Belt on Tuesday. State police say the Colonial Academy student stole a Buick Enclave outside of Miggy’s Deli in Middle Smithfield Township just after 6:30 a.m. The vehicle was unlocked and running when the boy jumped inside and sped away. Police eventually tracked down the vehicle and gave chase, following the youngster into the Wind Gap and Pen Argyl areas. Local police also got involved and the youngster crashed the SUV into a parked car, and was later arrested after he was found walking through yards in Pen Argyl. Police Chief David Strawn the boy told them there was a second teenager with him and he may be armed with a .22-caliber pistol. That prompted Pen Argyl’s Superintendent to lock down three schools in that area for the entire school day. No other suspect was located and police believe he either left the area, or was never involved in the first place. The boy now faces a long list of charges before Northampton County Juvenile authorities, including auto theft, fleeing and eluding police and reckless endangerment. Both Wind Gap and Pen Argyl Police are investigating.
Three teenage boys snagged for Middle Smithfield Twp. Burglary
Police arrested three teenage boys who they believe burglarized a Country Club of the Poconos home in Middle Smithfield Township over the weekend. State police say 18-year old Dominic Roebuck, of Middle Smithfield, 18-year old Daniel Reynoso, of Bushkill, and an unidentified 17-year-old juvenile broke into a home on Doral Court at about 2 o’clock Saturday morning and allegedly stole some undisclosed items. Later Saturday, troopers on patrol spotted the teens and took them into custody after a foot chase. The boys confessed to the crime and the stolen items were recovered. Roebuck and Reynoso are jailed in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10-thousand bail each. The 17-year-old faces charges in Juvenile Court.
Local Bridge Inspections uncover deficiencies, reduces Weight Limits
Following a series of bridge inspections throughout northeastern Pennsylvania, Penn Dot has released an updated list of area bridges where the weight limits were reduced because of various structural deficiencies. Penn Dot’s Sean Brown says they’ve lowered the weight limit on Gap View Drive Bridge over Marshalls Creek in Smithfield Township…the Kettle Creek Bridge on Route 209 in Hamilton Township…the Smith Hill Road Bridge over Appenzell Creek in Jackson Township…and a pair of bridges on Marshalls Creek Road in Middle Smithfield Township. In Carbon County, new weight restrictions are also posted on the Route 534 Bridge over Black Creek in Kidder Township. So if you are driving a vehicle that’s over the weight limit, you must seek an alternate route.
Armed robber brought down by shopper in Wal-Mart parking lot
An East Stroudsburg area man is jailed after police say he held up a woman inside the East Stroudsburg Wal-Mart Friday afternoon. Stroud Area Regional Police say 29-year old Christopher Jones told a cashier he had a gun and ordered her to open the cash drawer. After the cashier told Jones several times she couldn’t open the money drawer, he threatened to take hostages, and then turned to a customer behind him in line and told her he had a gun and he wanted HER money. He grabbed a money bag from the customer containing over $600-dollars and ran from the store. The cashier immediately notified store security and the female customer screamed she was robbed. That’s when James Melucci of East Stroudsburg chased Jones through the parking lot and eventually tackled him to the ground. Melucci and Wal-Mart Security Officers held Jones down until police arrived. Jones now faces charges of Robbery, Attempted Robbery, Terroristic Threats, Receiving Stolen Property and several other offenses.
Two die in Motorcycle Crash at the beginning of Motorcycle Safety initiative
On the day Penn Dot announced a new comprehensive motorcycle safety campaign -- Live Free Ride Alive -- to reduce the number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities in Pennsylvania, a motorcycle accident claims two lives on the mountain. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say it appears 26-year old Philip Cinamella, of Moscow, tried to pass several vehicles on a curvy (winding) stretch of Locust Ridge Road Friday afternoon, when he encountered a car coming in the opposite direction. In an effort to avoid a collision, Cinamella drove his motorcycle off the road and hit a tree, killing him, and his female passenger, 43-year old Lisa Hess, of Simpson, Pennsylvania. Both Cinamella and Hess died at the scene.
Albrightsville felon arrested for having a Gun
U.S. Postal inspectors and Pocono Mountain Regional Police raided a home in Tunkhannock Township, and we’ve now been informed it had to do with a convicted felon possessing a firearm. Regional Police swat team members joined U-S Postal Inspectors Friday morning as they searched a house on Crestview Road (in Briarcrest Woods) in Albrightsville, and charged Frank DeMaio after executing a search warrant. DeMaio is set to appear at a preliminary hearing on May 28th in Wilkes-Barre.
Trooper Joshua Miller honored again
Fallen Pennsylvania State Trooper Joshua Miller is being remembered yet again for his heroics last summer in Coolbaugh Township. Miller was honored recently during a ceremony at Troop M headquarters in Bethlehem for making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Miller is one of 93 troopers who have died on the job since the Pennsylvania State Police first formed in 1905. He was gunned down when he intervened to save a young boy’s life following a 40-mile car chase last June. Other state troopers were also honored for going above and beyond the call of duty during Friday’s emotional ceremony in the Lehigh Valley.
Double murder trial in Pike County continues
A Pike County jury is listening to a second day of testimony in the murder trial of two men, accused of killing a Harrisburg, Pa. man, and then dumping his body near a hunting camp in Porter Township. In 2008, State Police at Blooming Grove charged 35-year old Joseph Atwell and his wife, Dawn of Easton, and 47-year old Jesus Rosario Torres of Harrisburg. Dawn Atwell pleaded guilty to lesser charges in December and awaits sentencing. Both men face eight counts, including murder and kidnapping, for the shooting death of Norman Domenech in June of 2007. State police say Atwell suspected Domenech had taken money from his home in the Easton area. The trial began on Thursday, and could last up to two weeks.
Two stabbed during Domestic Dispute in Tobyhanna
A domestic squabble on the mountain turns violent, seriously injuring a young man and woman. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say they responded to a domestic incident Wednesday night at a residence on Church Street, and discovered Ashley Franz had been stabbed several times in the head, neck and hands, and the man allegedly responsible was hiding in the woods. About an hour later, police found Jason Furtak and took him into custody. Police say Furtak had self-inflicted stab wounds to his neck, stomach and wrist. Both Franz and Furtak were transported to Pocono Medical for treatment, while a second victim, Eric Furtak, did not require medical treatment. Jason Furtak faces several charges of Aggravated and Simple Assault, Reckless Endangerment, Terroristic Threats and Harassment. Police did not release details of what led up to the stabbings.
Jackson Twp. man missing since taking family members to work
A 71-year-old Monroe County man is missing and state police could use your help to find him. Troopers say George Transue dropped off his son and daughter-in-law for work, at Gracedale in Nazareth, just before 5 o’clock Wednesday morning. The family says they have not seen or heard from him since that time. Transue is a white male, with brown hair and a beard. He was last seen wearing a green flannel shirt, with a grey t-shirt underneath, blue jeans and brown shoes…and was driving a 2007, greenish-colored Ford Taurus with Pennsylvania plates (EYW-2519). Transue has no reported medical problems, but he didn’t like driving on the main roads or highways, and instead, he would travel back and side roads. If you have any information on his whereabouts, call troopers at the Fern Ridge barracks at 570-646-2271.
Man charged in connection with girl's overdose
A local man now faces charges for the heroin overdose of a 14-year old Barrett Township girl. State Police say they’ve arrested 28-year-old James Castellano for allegedly giving the teen heroin at a home on Montesca Lane. The girl told troopers this was the first time she used drugs, but it remains unclear as to how she and Castellano met. Police have charged Castellano with aggravated assault, corruption of minors, and delivery of a controlled substance. More arrests are expected in this case. By the way, the girl has fully recovered.
Polk Fire Chief injured at Carbon fire scene
The fire chief of the Polk Township volunteer fire department is recovering after suffering an injury while helping out at a fire scene in Carbon County. Chief Terry Jacoby injured his leg while battling a blaze Sunday night…and as of yesterday, he remained hospitalized in the Lehigh Valley in Fair condition. No other details have been released surrounding Jacoby’s injury, but we wish the chief a speedy recovery.
Man tries to Rob Hickory Run Travel Plaza
A man with a knife entered the truck fueling station at the Hickory Run Travel Plaza in Carbon County early this (Wed.) morning looking for some quick cash. However, state police say after he demanded money from the cashier, the cashier was able to flee without turning over any money and called 9-1-1. The suspect, a white male with a stocky build, ran from the store. Troopers say the would-be robber is about 5 feet 8 inches tall, 200 pounds, and he was wearing a black cloth over the lower half of his face, a red, hooded pull over sweatshirt, and dark pants. If you have any information, call 570-646-2271.
Poc. Mt. Regional Police lead large drug probe; Alleged gang members arrested
A local ten-month drug investigation wraps up with the arrests of six alleged members of the Bloods street gang. Pocono Mountain Regional Police Chief Harry Lewis says they arrested the suspects Tuesday morning in Mount Pocono and Tobyhanna, putting a dent in one of the largest drug rings ever to operate in the Pocono region. Lewis says the operation’s ringleader is Jyrell Bowers of Tobyhanna, who reportedly made many, many trips between the Poconos, Newark and New York City, and returned with large quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and marijuana. During the investigation, undercover agents/officers also bought assault rifles and other firearms from the gang. Chief Lewis says the investigation continues and more arrests are expected. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Scranton will handle the prosecution of this case.
Kunkletown man accused of Murder, waives his hearing
A 45-year old Kunkletown man in jail for allegedly murdering another man in 2005, has waived his right to a preliminary hearing. On Tuesday, Edwin Kelly decided to bypass District Court in Tannersville, and he’ll plead guilty, plead no contest or head to trial in Monroe County Court. Pocono Township Police say Kelly and two other men, who are still at large, killed 42-year old David McEntire inside Kelly's home. Police say McEntire was fatally beaten with a hammer, his body was burned and his remains were placed in a trash bag and dumped in a junkyard. Investigators, who learned details about the murder through an informant, have not released a motive for the killing, but they say McEntire used drugs.
Pat Mulroy to be Bangor Area School District Superintendent
Former East Stroudsburg School District teacher and administrator Pat Mulroy will be Bangor’s next Superintendent. On Monday night, the Bangor Area School Board voted 7 to 0 to hire Mulroy to suceed retiring Superintendent John Reinhart. Mulroy has been Bangor’s Assistant Superintendent for the last three years. She’ll receive a three-year contract and assume her new duties on August 1st. Mulroy told the board she has confidence that she and her fellow administrators can tackle the challenge of balancing the district’s budget in future years. She is credited with launching a new district online learning program, realigning Bangor's math and language arts curricula, and helping to restructure the district’s special education department after a state audit flagged several deficiencies.
Remains found near Scranton belong to missing NYC woman
State police confirm that skeletal remains found in Olyphant, Pennsylvania two weeks ago, are those of missing 25-year old Laura Garza, of Brooklyn. Investigators say Garza was last seen alive in Orange County, New York in December of 2008, and was found by ATV riders in a remote wooded area outside of Scranton on April 11th. She had disappeared after leaving a Manhattan nightclub with Michael Mele, an Orange County resident and convicted sex offender. He is confirmed to be the last person seen with Garza while she was alive. Mele remains jailed on unrelated charges for not registering his new address as a sex offender after moving from his parents home in Newburgh, New York. His legal counsel has been able to keep police from questioning him about Garza's disappearance, but investigators say they will persist.
Big Daddy's Restaurant burns to the ground: will it be re-built ?
Getting ready for a big summer tourism season, the owners of Big Daddy's Restaurant in Mount Pocono are now deciding whether or not they should re-build. The popular restaurant along Route 611 just down from Mount Airy Casino Resort, burnt to the ground early Saturday morning. Owner Steve Ertle says they are of course very upset because of the loss of business, but more than that, the Ertle family is shaken because 45 people lost their jobs. Ertle says his family is doing what it can to find those valued employees jobs elsewhere. The fire started just after 3 a.m. and spread quickly through the mostly wooden building. When fire crews arrived the restaurant was fully engulfed in flames, and unfortunately, nothing could be saved. It took almost three hours to extinguish the blaze. The state police fire marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze.
Bethlehem convenience store worker charged with theft to buy Lottery Tickets
A Northampton County woman is charged with stealing thousands of dollars from the convenience store where she worked so she could buy scratch-off lottery tickets. Bethlehem Police charged 38-year-old Kimberly Williams in January with stealing about $21,000 in deposits from her employer, and prosecutors say further investigations show she stole more than $68,000. Court records state Williams told police she took the money so she could buy scratch-off lottery tickets. She waived her preliminary hearing earlier today (Tuesday). Defense attorney Ed Angelo says his client is a gambling addict who regrets the thefts and will try to repay the money.
Kunkletown man arrested in N.J. for alleged Statutory Sexual Assaults; Palmerton man facing court for alleged Child Rape
A Kunkletown man will be brought to Monroe County to face child sexual assault charges. State Police at Lehighton say 50-year old Scott Karaman assaulted two children over a seven year period beginning back in 1997. Troopers says the girls were four and seven years of age when the assaults began. He now face 12 counts of Rape and Statutory Sexual Assault. Karaman was recently arrested in New Jersey.
A 28-year old Palmerton man will face rape and statutory sexual assault charges in Monroe County Court after waiving his preliminary hearing before a Tannersville District Judge on Tuesday. David Allan Snyder was arrested by Pocono Township Police for having sex with a 12-year old girl in a Jacuzzi in a local motel room in January. Police say Snyder knows the girl's family and knew she was a minor when he arranged the get together. He remains locked up (at the MCCF) in lieu of $150-thousand dollars bail awaiting trial.
ESU making walking trail from Apts; Students worry about safety
In an effort to make the walk from a student housing complex to the campus of East Stroudsburg University a little more convenient, ESU officials are ready to start building a walking path. The plan is to connect the fine arts building with the University Ridge Apartments. However, some students are worried about their safety on that quarter-mile long stretchh through a dense wooded area…but school officials say safety is their top priority. The $350-thousand dollar walkway should be finished by the start of the fall semester.
Frank Frazetta Sr. back in the Poconos and back in the news
Famed fantasy and comic book artist Frank Frazetta, Sr. just cannot seem to stay off the front page no matter how hard he tries. The Frazettas say someone broke into Frank Sr.'s Marshalls Creek home sometime during the last few weeks, and apparently (the thief) got inside by prying open a window. The break-in was discovered Monday night after Frazetta came north from Florida. So far, it's been determined that a gun collection and several cameras were taken, but an inventory of items in the home continues. Frazetta's multi-million dollar art collection was removed from his residence a long time ago, and put in a museum. That museum is the subject of a family dispute, because Frazetta's oldest son, Frank, Jr., is accused of breaking into that building and stealing 20-million dollars worth of his father's paintings. Frank Jr. said he had orders from his father to protect the artwork by any means necessary. He remains free on bail awaiting further court action.
Northampton County man uses Pick-Ax in "third" attempted
bank burglary
A Forks Township man already in the Monroe County Correctional Facility for trying to break into two local banks with a pick-ax, is now wanted in Plainfield Township (Northampton County) for a similar crime. Plainfield Township Police have filed charges against Juan Rodriguez-Rodriguez for trying to break into the PNC Bank branch along Sullivan Trail on April 4th. Police say Rodriguez-Rodriguez was upset that his bank account was overdrawn by several hundred dollars, so he looked up the nearest PNC Bank location on his cell phone, and allegedly went there and shattered a rear window with a pick-ax. However, he didn’t enter the bank because he was scared off. Police plan to bring Rodriguez-Rodriguez to Northampton County to be arraigned on the new burglary and related charges.
He was charged with two similar burglaries earlier this month at the First National Bank of Palmerton in Hamilton Township and the Pocono Community Bank on Route 209 in Brodheadsville.
Intense fire destroys a Ross Twp. home, but no injuries and pets survive
A State Police Fire Marshal is trying to determine what caused a fire that destroyed a Ross Township home on Monday afternoon. Crews from Blue Ridge Hook and Ladder, the West End and three other fire companies responded to the blaze in the Vista Estates development, but when they pulled up, the home was already fully engulfed in flames, and couldn’t be saved. Fire officials say no one was injured, and several pets were saved from the flames. Blue Ridge Cable-TV reported the couple living in the home is expecting a baby in the near future. The fire broke out just after 1:30 p.m.
Car battery explodes, destroys garage and home in Middle Smithfield Twp.
An apparent car battery explosion claimed a Middle Smithfield Township man’s house, and it could have taken his life if it weren’t for an alert neighbor. Paul Wisniewski told police he was in his garage working on his car Sunday afternoon when a fire started, and he ran into his kitchen to dial 9-1-1. Then the garage exploded and the next thing he remembered he woke up not knowing what happened. Scott Roberts, who lives across the street, pulled the unconscious Wisnewski out of his burning Turkey Ridge Road home, and saved his life. When fire crews arrived, the garage and home were blazing, and both were a total loss. Amazingly, no one was injured, and Roberts is a "hero".
DUI's continue...as does PSP Crackdown; Close call on I-80
State Police at Swiftwater continue their assault on drunk driving in Monroe County. Troopers made six more DUI arrests Saturday and Sunday, including one where a suspected drunk drove the wrong way without his car lights on along Interstate 80 in Stroudsburg, and slammed head-on into another car. Police say 21-year old Sean O’Brien of Blakeslee was driving east in the westbound lanes of 80 at 2:30 a.m. when the crash occurred. O’Brien had to be cut from the wreckage, and taken to the hospital with severe injuries, while the other driver, 37-year old Yunus Bonadie of Wilkes-Barre, and her passenger (Elroy Prince of Brooklyn, N.Y.) suffered major injuries and were transported to Pocono Medical Center. Police say they plan to file DUI and other charges against O’Brien.
NPS Closing down Boat Ramp this week for repairs
The National Park Service will close the Dingmans Ferry fishing access beginning today inside the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The boat and canoe launch repair project is the final one for the Park Service following the flooding of the Delaware River from 2004 to 2006. The launch area could be closed for up to a week so it can be stabilized and repaved, and the Park Service is asking anyone using the Delaware River to plan accordingly this week.
Crime Stoppers need help in finding Attempted Rapist
Monroe County Crime Stoppers is trying to help police find an attempted rape suspect. The attempted rape occurred two Saturdays ago in Stroudsburg, and police say they continue to search for a 35 to 40-year old Hispanic male accused of following a 22-year old woman as she turned off Main, and onto N. 6th Street. Officers say the man tried to rape the woman behind a dumpster near Quaker Alley. However, two passersby heard the victim screaming and came to her aid, and pulled the suspect off of the woman. The man was said to be wearing a multi-colored Argyle sweater, dark pants and shoes, had slicked back, black hair, a gold religious pendant which hung from his neck and he spoke with a heavy accent. If you have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-370-1518. All calls will remain confidential.
Former Bangor coach charged with Drug Possession
Bangor Area School District officials are investigating allegations that a former teacher's aide and coach did drugs with students on school grounds. District Superintendent John Reinhart says they’re looking into allegations against 29-year-old former assistant wrestling coach Brad Washburn, after police charged him Wednesday with drug possession. The charges stem from the investigation into a heroin overdose that killed 24-year-old biology teacher Gina Lyn Riso at Washburn's apartment last December. Riso’s death was ruled accidental. Defense attorney Mark Sigmon says he's unaware of any investigation into his client's time at the school, and that Washburn completed an in-patient drug rehab program following Riso's death.
Commuter rail riders into N.J. and N.Y. will pay 25 % more starting May 1st
Those who travel through north Jersey or into New York City by train need to prepare for a fairly good-sized fare hike. Pennsylvania rail commuters who board New Jersey Transit trains in Port Jervis, or drive to Hackettstown or Dover, N.J. to catch the train, will pay 25-percent more for a ticket to ride, beginning May 1st. The N.J. Transit Board says it needs to raise fares, and reduce some service to close a looming $300-million dollar budget gap. Earlier this month, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority rejected proposed service cuts that would have reduced by two, the number of trains from Port Jervis, N.Y. The MTA said, however, the cuts could be revisited at a later date.
Truck hauling WTC support beams in convoy is rear-ended along I-80 in Stroudsburg
As if the trip wasn't long enough, two tractor-trailers carrying twisted steel anchor beams from the World Trade Center buildings (Twin Towers) in New York City, collided along Interstate 80, at Route 209 south at about 11 o'clock this (Wed.) morning. State police and emergency crews had to close down both lanes of the ramp at Exit 46-A (to Snydersville) to untangle the mess. Both lanes were finally re-opened just before 12:30 p.m. A convoy of 28 trucks carried the beams along I-80 and four-lane Route 209 in Monroe County, and Route 33 south (through a congested construction zone) down to Route 22, on the way to Coatesville, Pennsylvania. That's where the beams were made in 1969 by Lukens Steel Company. In all, ten "steel trees", weighing 50-tons each, were transported to Coatesville to someday be placed in a proposed National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum. These beams were the only ones left standing following the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.
Great Bear Resort plan on hold for now...
A plan by Great Bear Country Club owner, Peter Ahnert has been shot down…at least temporarily. Ahnert has been trying for months now to massage plans to build a hotel and resort-complex inside the private community. However, residents of the Estates at Great Bear haven’t been very happy with the idea, and put lots of pressure on Middle Smithfield Township leaders, who have since stopped the project until Ahnert and his backers/partners can come up with a more acceptable and detailed master plan. Ahnert says he plans to do just that in the months ahead.
Police now say TWO men beat up and robbed man at Strbg. ATM
Enhanced photos from a video surveillance camera shows there were actually two robbers who beat up and robbed an East Stroudsburg man at an ATM machine outside the Wachovia Bank Branch in Stroudsburg last month. Stroud Area Regional Police say the Pa. State Police crime lab was able to use color to enhance the grainy black and white photos from the tape, and that revealed the second suspect. The men approached the 33-year old victim just before midnight on March 6th after he withdrew money from the Automated Teller Machine at 4th and McConnell Streets. The man suffered a severe head wound and had to be flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital for treatment. If you have any information on this crime, please call Stroud Regional detectives at 570-421-6800.
Attempted Rape (this weekend) in downtown Stroudsburg
Stroud Area Regional Police are trying to locate a man accused of trying to sexually assault a woman in downtown Stroudsburg early Saturday morning. Police say the victim told them she was walking on Main Street on her way to a friend’s apartment at approximately 1:40 a.m. when she noticed an individual following her. When she turned onto North Sixth Street, the suspect rushed her, dragged her behind a dumpster and attempted to assault her. Two women heard the victim's screams and went to help. One woman pulled the man off the victim and then chased him until he ran out of sight. Police say the suspect is a Hispanic male, between 35 and 40-years old with black, slicked back hair, who was last seen wearing a maroon, blue and beige Argyle sweater, dark pants and black shoes. He spoke with a heavy accent and had a thin gold necklace with a religious pendant. Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says other people noticed the man on Main Street earlier because he reportedly made unwanted advances. If you have any information, call Stroud Area Regional Police at (570) 421-6800.
Darryl comes to the Poconos to tell his story of recovery and finding the "Cross"
He was at the top of his game in the mid-1980’s and early 1990’s, but then the wheels came off for Darryl Strawberry, who thrilled both Mets and Yankees fans on the baseball diamond. Darryl disappointed many of those same fans with his off-the-field problems, which included his much publicized battles with drugs and alcohol. He also battled colon cancer twice. Strawberry said he was at his lowest point six years ago, and that’s when he found religion and turned his life around. He said God stripped him of everything to the point where he was living with his sister and her children in a two-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles. Strawberry met his wife while in drug rehab, but the road was rocky until the two of them (who began to commit their lives to God) committed to each other. On Sunday, people came from all over the northeast, and the NYC/NJ Metropolitan area to fill three morning services at Pocono Community Church in Mount Pocono to hear the Strawberrys tell their stories, pray with the congregation and reaffirm their lives to Christ. Darryl and Tracey Strawberry have also set up the "Darryl Strawberry Foundation" to benefit children and adults who are dealing with Autism.
Cause of death for a MCCF inmate unknown for now
We won’t know the cause of death for a Monroe County Correctional Facility inmate who was found dead last Thursday, for eight to twelve weeks. The Monroe County Coroner’s Office tells 93.5 SBG they need to wait for toxicology test results for 44-year old Peter Lee Senior of East Stroudsburg, before releasing how and why he died. Prison officials have not released any information about Lee’s death, except to say he was found unresponsive in his jail cell. Lee was serving a seven-month sentence for drunk driving, and court records show he was granted a one-day furlough for a medical appointment in March, and again on April 5th. There's no word if a medical condition may have led to Lee’s death.
Traffic stop leads to marijuana posession charges
A young couple face drug charges following a traffic stop along Route 940 in Tobyhanna Township. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say 21-year old Kayla Brooke Green of Jim Thorpe, and 21-year old James Perry Jr. of Pocono Manor, will be charged with marijuana possession after they were stopped in Pocono Pines for vehicle code violations. Police say Green was driving and Perry was the passenger, and after smelling marijuana coming from inside the car, a search turned up two plastic bags filled with pot, marijuana cigarettes (joints) and drug paraphernalia.
Pa. State Police continue Local/Region DUI Crackdown
State police at Swiftwater had another busy weekend arresting suspected DUI offenders as the crackdown on drunk drivers in the Pocono region remains a priority. Troopers made four DUI arrests in Hamilton Township, and four others in Middle Smithfield, Smithfield, Stroud and Chestnuthill Townships. Seven of the eight offenders are from Monroe County, while the other driver is from Nazareth. This total doesn’t include other DUI arrests made by State Police the at Lehighton, Fern Ridge and Blooming Grove, or by the four municipal police departments.
By the way, this upcoming weekend, Troopers at Blooming Grove will set up DUI Sobriety Checkpoints and Roving patrols in areas known for DUI incidents and crashes as the “No Tolerance Driving Enforcement” policy will continue to be strictly enforced for the next many months.
Local man dies in work-related fall; OSHA Investigating
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking into the death of a Monroe County man who fell from a second-floor window while working in Bethlehem Tuesday afternoon. Fifty-eight year old Dominick Ficzko of Saylorsburg, was working for Brian's Professional Cleaning & Restoration of Nazareth, when he fell out of a William Street home while installing a window. The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office ruled Ficzko's death was an accident. OSHA spokesman Mike D'Aquino confirms the agency is investigating the circumstances surrounding the deadly fall.
Man charged with bank break-in, says he tried it before
The man state police charged with breaking into Pocono Community Bank in Brodheadsville earlier this week, admitted to an attempted break-in at a Hamilton Township bank on Sunday. Troopers say 20-year old Juan Rodriguez-Rodriguez of Easton admitted to using a pickax to try to open a side door at the First National Bank of Palmerton. However, Rodriguez-Rodriguez said he didn't enter the bank when he realized the repercussions of the crime. But then two days later, police arrested him as he hid outside Pocono Community Bank, and then tried to run from the police. The arrest reports says Rodriguez-Rodriguez broke a back window, which set off a burglar alarm. He is charged with attempted burglary and related offenses for both incidents and remains jailed in lieu of $50-thousand dollars bail awaiting a preliminary hearing.
Middle Smithfield man injured in on car hood/ambulance crash is doing better
A Middle Smithfield Township man critically injured in a bizarre traffic accident last Saturday, is improving at Lehigh Valley Hospital. State police said Ricardo Amman was hurt after his wife’s car slammed into an ambulance along Route 209 following a domestic incident. Police say Amman and his wife got into an argument, and as she drove her car from their home, he jumped onto the hood and wouldn't let go. His wife then drove for more than a half-mile with Amman clinging to the car's hood. After impact, he was thrown onto the road and suffered serious injuries. Amman is now listed in stable condition. State police have yet to file any charges in relation to the crash.
Murder trial to open in Pike County; Wayne County murder trial on tap for June
Jury selection continues in Pike County for two men charged with killing a Northampton County man in June of 2007. Thirty-five year old Joseph Atwell and 47-year old Jesus Rosario Torres each face murder, kidnapping and several other charges for the death of Norman Domenech of Easton. State police investigators say the men drove Domenech to state forest land in Porter Township and killed him, because Atwell suspected Domenech took money from his Forks Township home. Atwell’s wife, Dawn, was also charged, but she pleaded guilty to disposing of evidence charges.
The attorney for a 46-year old man accused of murder and facing the death penalty in Wayne County wants the upcoming trial for his client moved out of that Pocono county. Jeffrey Pliska faces the death penalty for allegedly sexually assaulting, then shooting to death Laura Ronning at a summer camp near Tanners Falls in July of 1991. State police charged Pliska last year with sex crimes and murder. This week, his lawyer also asked a Wayne County Judge to drop the death penalty, but the judge denied that motion along with the change of venue request. Pliska’s trial is expected to start in June.
Brush fire threat remains "HIGH" in Monroe, Pike, Carbon and Northampton counties
It's another “red flag” day regarding outdoor burning in the Poconos. The National Weather Service declared a red flag warning on Wednesday for all counties in the Pocono region, and a red flag watch is in effect for today (Thurs.) because the brush fire threat remains extreme. You are urged NOT TO BURN ANYTHING OUTDOORS. Earlier today, firefighters had to battle two brush fires in Middle Smithfield Township. They were able to keep the fires from spreading to nearby homes with the help of a water-drop helicopter. Yesterday (Wed.), forty firefighters were called to extinguish a brush fire that charred five acres along High Crest Road just south of Canadensis in Barrett Township. Fire officials believe an arc from a utility pole may have sparked that blaze. Also, DO NOT throw lit cigarette butts out of your car window. Those too can spark a brush fire.
On a related note...The Chestnuthill Township Supervisors have banned ALL OUTDOOR and BARREL BURNING until further notice. The ban went into effect on Wednesday.
I-80 Tolling plan shot down by the FHA for the third time
Three strikes ... and yer out !!! That's basically what the feds told Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell and the Pa. Turnpike Commission this week in regard to Act 44 -- which basically would make Intertstate 80 a toll road. On Tuesday, federal highway officials rejected Pennsylvania's application, which Rendell was hoping to parlay into a windfall of about $470-million dollars a year for roads, bridges and mass transit projects around the state. Rendell reportedly plans to call a special legislative session to address ways to fill the funding gap. The Alliance to Stop I-80 Tolling hailed what it calls a “major victory” in the fight to prevent tolls on Interstate 80. The decision the Federal Highway Administration also put a smile on the face of Monroe County State Rep., Mario Scavello. Scavello was vehemently opposed to the plan, which he claimed would place a financial burden on local residents and business owners. Not to mention the commuting and traveling public.
Traffic will be snarled all over Monroe County today (Wed.)
A tractor-trailer accident in the northbound lanes of Intertstate 380 at mile-marker one tied up traffic for most of the day on Wednesday. State police say a truck carrying U.S. mail blew a tire and slammed into a garbage trailer parked on the shoulder of the road. Both trucks caught fire, but amazingly, neither driver was injured, but the northbound lanes were closed (from about 7:30 a.m.) until 4:15 p.m.
Today’s sunny weather also means road maintenance and construction work all over the (Pocono) region…
East and Westbound traffic will be reduced to a single-lane on Interstate 80 across the Delaware Water Gap Toll Bridge from 9 this morning until 2 o’clock this afternoon. Expect delays, north and south along the Northeast Extension of the Pa. Turnpike between the Lehigh Tunnel and the Mahoning Valley Interchange (MM #74 between mile-post A72 and A76) until one o’clock this afternoon.
Road sign work is planned today on Interstate 80 eastbound between Blakeslee and Delaware Water Gap. There’s pothole patching work lined up for 80 eastbound between North 9th St. and MM 310 at Delaware Water Gap…and westbound 80 from MM 299 (Route 715) to MM 293 (I-380/80 split). Pay attention along Route 33 north and southbound in Saylorsburg, as major road and bridge work continue. Remain alert on Business Route 209 in Stroud Twp., Cherry Valley Road in Hamilton Twp., Creek Road in Middle Smithfield Twp., Foxtown Hill Rd. at Interstate 80 in Smithfield Twp., Route 423 in Tobyhanna, Sullivan Trail in Pocono Township, Wooddale Rd. in Paradise Twp., and Tom X Road in Middle Smithfield Township. Road crews will be doing everything from cutting brush, to crack sealing, shoulder widening and bridge repair work until 3 o’clock this afternoon.
Early morning armed robbery in Stroudsburg
Stroud Area Regional Police are looking for two men who held up two women early this (Fri.) morning in Stroudsburg. Police say the women told them they had been drinking and were walking home from a friend's house (just before 2 a.m.), when they were approached by two black males near the corner of North 7th and Thomas Streets. One of the men was carrying a gun and wearing an orange mask, and demanded money from the women. The suspects grabbed a purse, and then ran south on North 7th Street toward the Monroe County Courthouse. Police say the women gave no other descriptions of the robbers. If you have any information on the suspects or the hold up, call 570-421-6800.
Tobyhanna woman arrested for alleged Child Rape
A Coolbaugh Township woman has been charged with sexually assaulting a child. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say they followed up on an anonymous tip that a woman was sexually abusing a child on more than one occasion at a home in Tobyhanna. Investigators say Tasha Rentas assaulted a 12-year old between September of 2008 and November of last year. Rentas was arrested without incident on March 28th, and she now faces over two hundred charges including Rape, Statutory and Aggravated Indecent Assault. She remains jailed in the Monroe County Correctional Facility in lieu of 50-thousand dollars bail.
New York man sentenced for gun incident
A Brooklyn, New York man is facing 18-months to 3 years in prison for firing a gun into a house in Chestnuthill Township last summer. A Monroe County Judge sentenced 27-year old Anthony Nava this week for the incident last August at a home on Merwinsburg Road. State police say Nava and 25-year old Robertello of Blakeslee got into an argument with two men at the house, and Nava later pulled out a gun and fired several shots before the gun jammed. No one was injured. Robertello will be sentenced at a later date.
Owner of Water Gap Diner is the victim of an "ARSON fire"
A March 22nd fire that destroyed the Water Gap Diner and killed its owner was deliberately set. The State Police Fire Marshal labels the fire, an arson, and the death of 71-year old Rigas Ioannidis, a homicide. Ioannidis lived in an apartment above the diner and police believe he was likely asleep when the fire started just after 4 a.m. Ioannidis managed to get out of the building, but he suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation, and died several hours later at Lehigh Valley Hospital’s Burn Unit. State police investigators aren’t releasing any details because they do not want to compromise the investigation, although Delaware Water Gap Fire Chief Brad Miller says the fire didn’t start upstairs. He says when fire crews pulled up, the steps leading to Ioannidis’ apartment were already blazing. A half dozen tenants in apartments behind the diner, escaped without injury. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted with the investigation.
Nine people, including several Monroe County residents, arrested in Insurance scheme
The Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office has arrested two Effort women, and seven other people, for allegedly devising a complex disability fraud scheme that cost four insurance companies more than $1-million dollars. Attorney General Tom Corbett said the investigation centered on Judi Grate and Bianca Bucano, who for the past ten years, submitted forged documents to insurance companies that claimed they provided home health care, when in fact, they provided little or none. Corbett says the women (Grate and Bucano) enlisted help from three family members, and four other friends to carry out the scam. After looking over evidence and listening to testimony regarding this alleged fraud and forgery, a statewide investigating grand jury recommended the filing of criminal charges. The grand jury found Grate claimed she was suffering from fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis and needed home care services. She submitted bogus invoices from June 20th, 2000, to January 20th of this year to a pair of insurance companies -- netting her nearly $730-thousand dollars. During this time, Grate was unemployed, but Corbett said she managed to buy a time-share and three Cadillacs.
NJ Employment/Residency legislation to be amended
New Jersey legislators are planning to pass a residency requirement for public employees that directly impacts Pennsylvanians…although current employees may not have to worry about it. New Jersey Senate President, Stephen Sweeney, confirmed to the “Pocono Record” yesterday (Wed.), that the residency bill, which would have required Pennsylvania residents who hold state, county and local government jobs, along with teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public employees in the Garden State, will be amended to allow the border-crossing state workers to keep their jobs and homes. Once amended, the residency legislation will require new employees to establish residency within four months of employment. In March, Monroe & Pike County State Representative, John Siptroth, asked New Jersey lawmakers to grandfather current employees, making them exempt from the residency requirement.
Two defendants sentenced in connection with Deadly crimes in Monroe County
Two people are sentenced in connection with two different murder cases in Monroe County Court this (Thurs.) morning. The judge gave 23-year old Conrad Jankowski of Newfoundland, a six to 23 month county jail term for pleading guilty to hindering apprehension. Police say Jankowski picked up Michael Parrish and drove him to New Hampshire after Parrish allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend, 21-year old Victoria Adams, and their 18-month old son, Sidney Parrish, at their Chestnuthill Township home last July. Jankowski and Parrish were arrested the next day when police found them sleeping inside Jankowski's vehicle in a gas station parking lot.
… and a Scranton woman will serve 2 ½ to five years in STATE prison for conspiring to use the credit card of a man murdered in the parking lot of the Stroudsburg Quality Inn in January of 2009. Police say Sonia Maldonado, who had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit forgery, made purchases on Blake Natal’s credit card just hours after he was killed. Her son, Ralph Maldonado, and Myles White, remain jailed awaiting trial for the robbery and beating death of the 22-year old Tobyhanna man.
Barrett man enters plea before Rape Trial starts in Monroe Cty Court
A Cresco man charged with getting a 17-year-old girl drunk and then raping her at a Barrett Township home back in 2008, has entered a plea to lesser charges. This week, 19-year old Kyle Haisch, pleaded guilty to corruption of a minor and furnishing alcohol to a minor, and in exchange, rape and sexual assault charges were dropped. A jury was picked and ready for the start of Haisch’s trial on Wednesday. He now faces up to nine months in the Monroe County Correctional Facility, up to a year's probation, and a $1-thousand dollar fine when he is sentenced at a later date.
Monroe County Jury lets Poc. Twp. man off easy for Deadly Crash
A Monroe County jury convicts a Pocono Township man of Careless Driving and Failure to Stop charges, but acquits Cary Clark of Vehicular Homicide and Manslaughter for a two-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a Mountainhome woman. The 45-year old Clark was also fined $525-dollars. Prosecutors alleged Clark ran a red light at the intersection of Routes 611 and 314, leading to the crash that killed 20-year old Jessica Weishun in May of 2008. Weishun’s close friend, Amanda Beyer was incensed by the verdict, and lashed out as she left the courthouse Tuesday afternoon, asking why this beautiful, innocent life was only worth $525-dollars ?
$36,000 in Jewelry stolen from Pike home
A Jamaica, Queens family is out $36-thousand dollars worth of jewelry following a recent break-in at their Pike County home. State Police say someone forced open the front door of a Hillside Drive home at Hemlock Farms (while the owners were away), put the family dog in the closet, and stole a Cartier watch, a Techno watch and a white gold, diamond bracelet. The thief/thieves then left the property without being seen. If you have any information on this March 13th burglary (which occurred between 5:30 and 8:15 p.m.), call troopers at 570-226-5718.
Fire claims the life of Water Gap Diner owner
The borough of Delaware Water Gap and those here in the Poconos are mourning the loss of the popular owner of the Water Gap Diner. DWG officials say a fire started in the diner building (along Main St.) at about 4 o’clock Monday morning, while 72-year old Rigas Ioannidis slept in an upstairs apartment. Ioannidis was able to get out of the burning building, but unfortunately, he suffered third-degree burns over most of his body. He was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital’s Burn Unit, but he passed away last (Monday) evening. The diner sustained heavy damage, and the cause of the quick-moving blaze remains under investigation.
Traffic stop leads to drugs and weapons on the Mountain
A weekend traffic stop in Coolbaugh Township leads to the arrest of three Pocono Summit teenagers, who police say were armed and carrying a fairly large amount of marijuana. Pocono Mountain Regional Police officers pulled over a car with Florida plates along Route 196 Saturday morning, and once they received permission to search the car, found three large bags of marijuana in a hidden compartment, along with a digital scale, a loaded 9-millimeter handgun with an erased serial number and a hundred rounds of ammunition. Police arrested the driver, 19-year old Estabon Fernandez, 18-year old Joseph Morales, and a 16-year old boy, and charged them with drug and gun possession offenses. They say they also located shotgun shells, a side holster and $25-hundred dollars in cash on the young men. Fernandez and Morales are jailed at the Monroe County Correctional Facility, while the underage boy was placed in Juvenile Detention.
Missing N.Y. man found in DWGNRA, but not Alive
A missing New York state man is found in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, but unfortunately, he was not found alive. About forty searchers and six dog teams had been looking since Friday for Kurt Asdal, of Wurtsboro, and they discovered his body in a northern section of the park at about noon today (Saturday). His body was located just off the park's Conashaugh Equestrian Trail, near Milford, in Pike County. Park Service spokesperson Kathleen Sandt says Asdal's cause of death is pending a corner's investigation. National Park Service rangers joined with state police from Pennsylvania and New Jersey in the search after Asdal's vehicle was discovered Friday in a pullover off Route 209 in Pike County. He had been missing since Thursday night.
Interstate 80 traffic now back to normal after tractor-trailer crash
This (Thurs.) morning's commute into New York and New Jersey along Interstate 80 was a nightmare. State police say an eastbound tractor-trailer (that was carrying mulch and outdoor products) flipped over during an accident passed the Marshalls Creek exit (MM 309) at 6:15 a.m. Both eastbound lanes in that area of Smithfield Township were closed for almost five hours. Troopers say 41-year old Errol Bryant of East Stroudsburg was driving the truck that was tailgating a car in the passing lane, and when he attempted to pass on the right at an unsafe speed, he lost control and dumped the rig onto the driver's side. Four other vehicles ran into the overturned truck, but remarkably, no one was injured. As of this time, no charges have been filed against Bryant.
E-Burg man pleads Guilty to Murder and is sentenced this morning
An East Stroudsburg man entered a guilty plea this (Wed.) morning in Monroe County Court to shooting another East Stroudsburg area man in September of 2008. Following the plea by 31-year old Anthony Mitchell, his attorney asked for an immediate sentence, so President Judge Ronald Vican gave him a 15 to 40-year jail term. On the morning his trial was to begin, Mitchell pleaded guilty to third-degree murder for killing 21-year old Casheem Gaines in the parking lot outside the Studio West Dance Club in the Eagle Valley Mall. Stroud Area Regional Police say he shot Gaines, who tried to break up an argument between Mitchell and another man following a dance at the club. Mitchell was later picked up in New York City and returned to the Poconos to face prosecution.
Stroud Township man exonerated in Sex Assault case
A 21-year old Stroud Township man accused of sexually assaulting two teenage girls at a party, is cleared of the most serious charges by a Monroe County jury. Jurors decided on Wednesday that Owen McFarlane did not have sexual contact with a 14-year old girl, and a 16-year old girl, during a party at his Penn Estates home in 2008. However, he was found guilty of supplying alcohol to minors. Meanwhile, his co-defendants, 21-year olds Ricardo White and John Garcia, both decided to plead guilty before their trials began on Tuesday. White admitted to indecent assault and conspiracy to commit sexual assault, while Garcia entered his plea to corruption of minors and unlawful conduct with a minor. All three men will be sentenced at a later date.
Be careful with the Census; don't GIVE OUT personal information
Many people have received, or will receive 2010 census forms in the mail - but state and local police want to warn residents to be cautious. Police recommend NEVER, under any circumstance, give out personal identification information like your social security number, bank account information, birth date, or times when you will, or will not be home, to anyone. If a census taker comes knocking on your door, ask to see their official federally issued identification. If anyone asks for your personal information, they’re probably trying to steal your identity or commit some other type of crime against you, your family, or your property.
Carbon County woman has "melt down" in Wal-mart parking lot
A Lehighton woman is in the Monroe County Correctional facility on Aggravated Assault by Motor Vehicle charges after police say she rammed a car with her vehicle at the Wal-Mart in Mount Pocono. Pocono Mountain Regional Police responded to a report of a fight on Monday night, and saw 23-year old Morgan Rehrig nearly hit two people, and then ram a car in the parking lot. Police say Rehrig proceeded to push the vehicle across Route 940, and then slammed it into a third vehicle on Oak Street. Luckily, no one was seriously injured.
Pennsylvania traffic-related deaths at record low
Penn DOT says the number of traffic deaths last year (2009) on Pennsylvania roads dropped to the lowest level ever recorded. Pennsylvania started keeping records back in 1928, and Penn Dot says last year, 1,256 people were killed on roads in the Commonwealth -- the lowest number in 72 years. Officials have no explanation for the decrease, but said safety programs, seat belt usage and fewer drivers on the road due to the recession may be factors.
PM School Board looking to cut Teaching Jobs
Pocono Mountain School Board members and administrators entertained a full house at the second of three exploratory budget meetings on Wednesday. About 300 teachers, staffers and students showed up because they’re upset about the possible elimination of up to 18 teacher and administrator positions in the new (2010-2011) school year. Many of those proposed cuts involve teachers of sixth grade and higher. Two sources tell WSBG/WVPO nine positions will definitely be cut, and many of them will be at the Clear Run Intermediate School. However, no decisions were made at yesterday’s meeting, and the district will deal next Wednesday with proposals to restructure and reduce district debt. The board scheduled these meetings this month because of a group of vocal district residents want a proposed 5.7-percent tax hike totally eliminated from a new budget.
Man assaulted and robbed outside Stroudsburg Wachovia Bank branch
An East Stroudsburg man just wanted to make a simple ATM withdrawl, and today he remains hospitalized recovering from a severe head injury. Stroud Area Regional Police say the 33-year old male was assaulted and robbed Saturday night at the Wachovia Bank ATM on North 4th Street in Stroudsburg. Police say the robbery occurred sometime between 11:45 p.m. and midnight. Emergency crews transported the victim to Pocono Medical Center, where he was flown by medi-vac helicopter to Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest. He is listed in serious condition. Police are asking anyone with information on the attack and robbery, to call Detective David Thomas at 570-421-6800. All calls will remain confidential.
Scotrun man charged with 2005 Murder of Kunkletown man
A Scotrun man is now jailed (in the Monroe County Correctional Facility) without bail facing Murder and related charges for the death of a Kunkletown man who disappeared in October of 2005. On Wednesday, State Troopers and Pocono Township Police arrested 45-year old Edwin Kelly at his home along Rainbow Lake Drive. Police allege Kelly and two accomplices killed 42-year old David McEntire over drugs and money. An arrest affidavit says the trio beat up McEntire with a hammer, then shot him and burned his body, before dumping it in a junkyard in Hazleton. Kelly is scheduled to appear at a preliminary hearing next Tuesday, while police continue efforts to arrest the other men allegedly involved in this murder.
Murder trial upcoming for alleged New Year's Day stabber
It’s a murder trial for a 33-year-old man accused of stabbing to death another man at a party on New Year’s day. District Judge Brian Germano on Wednesday ruled there was enough evidence to bind over the charges against Adam Lawruszkeiwicz, who is charged with killing Marcin Taran on the first day of the new year in Middle Smithfield Township. The arrest affidavit says Lawruszkeiwicz told police Taran had been harassing him all night, and his attorney claims it was self-defense. But prosecutors say Taran had no weapon and he was brutally stabbed to death. |
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