FINDLAY, Ohio (WTVG) – A Columbus man was taken into custody after allegedly leading law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit from Hancock County into Wyandot County.
On January 22 at approximately 1:30 p.m., deputies from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office attempted to pull over a driver who had two active warrants. The driver refused to stop, initiating a pursuit.
The chase proceeded southbound on Blanchard Avenue in Findlay, continuing onto State Route 37, then southbound on State Route 15 before merging onto U.S. 23.
Authorities reported that the driver eventually came to a stop about one mile north of State Highway 199 in Wyandot County. He exited the vehicle and surrendered to law enforcement without further incident.
The pursuit covered a distance of 28 miles over 20 minutes, reaching speeds as high as 115 mph.
The driver, identified as Chaz Holley of Columbus, was taken to the Hancock County Justice Center. He faces charges of Failure to Comply and Driving Under Suspension.
In addition to the current charges, Holley is being held on an outstanding warrant from Franklin County for multiple offenses, including Failure to Appear for Abduction, Tampering with Evidence, Possession of Drugs, Having Weapons Under Disability, Improper Handling of a Firearm, Failure to Comply, and Receiving Stolen Property. He also has a separate warrant from the Columbus Police Department for Domestic Violence.
OTTAWA COUNTY, Ohio — A Village of Marblehead police officer has been convicted of unauthorized use of a law enforcement database for personal reasons. Michael Scherer pleaded guilty on Friday in Ottawa County Common Pleas Court to 26 counts of unauthorized use of the Ohio Law Enforcement Gateway (OHLEG), all fifth-degree felonies. His sentencing is scheduled for March 7.
According to his personnel records, Marblehead Police Chief Kenn Thellman filed a formal complaint against Scherer on July 11, 2024, citing repeated misuse of OHLEG over a two-year period, a violation of Ohio law. The investigation into Scherer’s misconduct began when he applied for a position with the Bowling Green Police Department (BGPD).
During the BGPD background investigation, conducted between June 24 and July 2, Chief Tony Hetrick interviewed Scherer and several of his references. One former roommate and ex-girlfriend described Scherer as “neither honest nor reliable” and expressed fear of him as a police officer. She alleged that Scherer ran license plate checks through OHLEG while off duty, targeting her child’s father, her neighbors, and even vehicles that committed traffic violations in his presence. She also claimed he conducted searches at his mother’s request.
Chief Thellman was notified of these findings and officially lodged the complaint. Additionally, on July 12, Thellman reprimanded Scherer for unrelated incidents, including spending excessive on-duty hours at Bay Point Resort. Complaints indicated Scherer’s cruiser was parked on Bay Point Boulevard for over five hours and that he attended a garage party until after 4 a.m., even allowing an unidentified female into his patrol car. Thellman prohibited Scherer from socializing at Bay Point while on duty and required the return of his access card.
Further complaints included Marblehead Mayor John Starcher’s report that Scherer locked his dog inside the council meeting room unattended—an action Thellman firmly stated would not be tolerated again.
An audit conducted on Scherer’s OHLEG account confirmed over 124 unauthorized searches during off-duty hours across two years. As a result, Scherer was suspended on July 18, 2024, pending a mayoral review and subsequently terminated from the Marblehead Police Department on July 22, 2024.
Scherer’s employment history reveals a pattern of concerning behavior. He joined the Toledo Police Department in 2018 but resigned in December 2019 amid an internal investigation prompted by a complaint from the Oregon city prosecutor. The investigation recommended charges of “abuse of authority” and “conduct unbecoming an officer.” Scherer resigned before facing a hearing.
From October 2020 to June 2021, Scherer worked part-time for the Woodville Police Department. Woodville Police Chief Steve Gilkerson noted that although Scherer had previously resigned from Toledo PD under investigation, he was given an opportunity with Woodville PD. However, Scherer reportedly misled dispatchers during an incident where he drove a female to a hotel near Perrysburg or Rossford, falsely claiming he was handling equipment in Genoa. Scherer resigned from Woodville PD just before the department launched its own internal investigation, avoiding possible termination.
Scherer claimed he left Woodville PD to accept a position with the Marblehead Police Department.
His conviction now closes a troubling chapter in his law enforcement career, raising questions about oversight and accountability within local police departments.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-13-at-3.56.11 PM.png6621114Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2025-01-13 16:59:592025-01-13 17:00:00Former Marblehead Police Officer Convicted of 124 Unauthorized OHLEG Database Searches to Investigate Ex Gf.
On January 10, 2025, Benito Thebeau issued a severe and alarming threat through a private message, displaying reckless and dangerous behavior. Thebeau’s message included an explicit warning suggesting violent retaliation, accompanied by a photograph of a firearm and a group image of a military squad. His statement, “just saying you shoot my dog just cause it’s loose you better hope you and your ar are cq trained and have lvl 4 plates fuck boy,” clearly conveyed a violent threat of bodily harm.
This threat has been formally reported to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office and the Fulton County Prosecutor’s Office. A detailed email was sent, including screenshots of Benito Thebeau’s threatening message and accompanying images. Due to the serious nature of the threat, increased security measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of the recipient and their family.
Such behavior is not only irresponsible but also illegal. Threats of violence, particularly those involving firearms, are taken very seriously by law enforcement. Benito Thebeau’s actions are under review, and appropriate legal steps will be pursued to address this matter and protect those targeted by his threats.
Law enforcement authorities have been urged to investigate this threat thoroughly and take any necessary actions to ensure public safety. This incident serves as a reminder that threats of violence carry significant legal consequences and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-10-at-7.36.10 PM.png7061110Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2025-01-10 20:38:142025-01-10 20:38:14THREAT by Benito Thebeau Has Been Sent to Fulton County Sheriff’s Office & Prosecutor’s Office
Waukesha, WI — Morgan Geyser, one of the two girls convicted in the infamous 2014 Slender Man stabbing, has been granted conditional release from a Wisconsin mental health facility, marking a significant development in the decade-old case that shocked the nation.
On Thursday, Waukesha County Circuit Judge Michael Bohren signed the order for Geyser’s supervised release. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has been tasked with developing a detailed plan for her transition within the next 60 days. Until the plan is finalized, Geyser will remain at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute before moving to a group home under supervision.
Geyser, now 22, was only 12 when she and her friend, Anissa Weier, lured their classmate Payton Leutner into the woods and stabbed her 19 times in a disturbing attempt to appease the fictional internet character Slender Man. Leutner miraculously survived the brutal attack, despite sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Both Geyser and Weier were charged in adult court with first-degree attempted intentional homicide. Geyser was found guilty but was declared not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect and sentenced to up to 40 years in a psychiatric facility. Weier, who pleaded guilty to a lesser charge, was sentenced to up to 25 years but was granted supervised release in 2021 at the age of 19.
The decision to release Geyser comes after testimonies from three psychologists who have closely monitored her progress. Dr. Brooke Lundbohm, testifying via Zoom, supported Geyser’s petition for release, stating, “I don’t think she currently poses a significant risk of substantial harm to herself, others, or to property damage.”
Lundbohm noted Geyser’s marked improvement in mental health since a suicide attempt in 2021. Although Geyser still struggles with self-criticism and low self-esteem, she has been described as bright and articulate. Psychologist Kenneth Robbins echoed these sentiments, highlighting Geyser’s aspirations to become a librarian and eventually a therapist for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Robbins confirmed that Geyser, once diagnosed with schizophrenia, has not shown psychotic symptoms in over two years and has been successfully weaned off antipsychotic medications. However, she continues to manage post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and autism.
Dr. Deborah Collins also testified, affirming that Geyser understands the conditions of her release, including residing in a group home and wearing an ankle monitor. Collins stated, “She recognizes that she would be subject to a whole host of expectations and rules, and what could happen if she violated those.”
The victim’s family remains cautious about Geyser’s release. Payton Leutner’s mother, Stacie Leutner, expressed her concerns in a statement: “Morgan Geyser has withdrawn her request to be released twice. More recently, her request was denied. We are confident that the judicial system will make a decision that will ensure the community, and my daughter remain safe.”
Geyser’s previous request for release was denied in April 2024, but this ruling marks a turning point in her path toward reintegration into society. The next two months will be critical as officials finalize the conditions of her supervised release.
The Slender Man stabbing continues to be a chilling reminder of how fictional narratives can influence real-world violence. The case remains one of the most disturbing in recent memory, sparking ongoing discussions about mental health, internet influence, and juvenile justice.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/output.png11801944Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2025-01-10 00:34:452025-01-10 00:38:40Morgan Geyser Granted Conditional Release in Slender Man Stabbing Case
On January 6, 2025, the Seneca County Drug Task Force-METRICH, with assistance from the Fostoria Police Department and the Hancock County Drug Task Force, executed a search warrant at 1240 N. Countyline St. in Fostoria.
As a result, suspected crack cocaine, LSD, drug paraphernalia, and a sawed-off shotgun were seized. Two individuals, Tristin Conley (23) and Christopher Pryor (32), were arrested and are currently being held in the Seneca County Jail, with additional charges pending.
Chief Gabriel Wedge of the Fostoria Police Department stated, “Crack cocaine abuse has negatively impacted our community for years. This investigation successfully shut down a dangerous operation and removed another firearm from criminal hands.”
Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the METRICH Crime Hotline at 419-443-0463 ext. 1140. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods safe!
#Fostoria #SenecaCounty #METRICH #CommunitySafety
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-07-at-7.44.49 PM.jpg662988Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2025-01-07 20:50:282025-01-07 20:50:28METRICH Drug Unit Executes Search Warrant in Fostoria
LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) — An Archer Daniels Midland shareholder is calling for the company’s CEO Juan Luciano to be removed in light of accounting problems reported by the company including Luciano’s alleged lack of action to stem company losses as a result.
About one year ago ADM announced it was reviewing internal accounting practices and suspended its CFO Vikram Luthar. Luthar resigned his post effective on Sept. 30 and the company hired Monish Patolawala as CFO.
In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice launched an investigation into ADM’s finances and issued subpoenas to current and former employees.
ADM stock has taken a big hit since January 2024 when news of accounting irregularities broke. ADM stock closed at $50.15 per share on Tuesday, down from $70.89 on Jan. 2, 2024 — or a 29% drop.
“The fish always stinks from the head,” Hartwig Fuchs, an ADM shareholder, wrote in a Dec. 29, 2024, post to LinkedIn about ADM’s handling of the accounting problems.
“If a highly paid CEO of such an important company cannot manage to provide clarity within a few months — i.e. fully clear up the scandal, communicate with full transparency about what went wrong and what will be done in the future, regain investors’ trust and, above all, protect the company from long-term damage — then he has to go.”
Fuchs is the former chairman of the board at Toepfer International, a German trading company now 100% owned by ADM. Fuchs also previously served as CEO of Nordzucker AG, a European sugar company.
“The ADM company, the people who work at ADM — and they are good people — they must be protected and these negative reports must be stopped,” Fuchs said on LinkedIn.
“And the share price must rise again to levels that properly reflect the company’s true earning power (which, admittingly, would make me smile again).”
For the third quarter of 2024 ADM reported $18 million in profit, down from $821 million one year ago largely as a result of falling grain prices and overcapacity in biofuels production.
A spokesperson for ADM declined comment in response to DTN’s request Tuesday.
Fuchs was critical of how ADM has handled communications regarding the ongoing investigation.
“For almost a full year, we have known about an apparent widening law enforcement investigation into ADM’s internal pricing of inter-company transactions,” Fuchs wrote.
During the company’s earnings call on Dec. 3, ADM’s new CFO Patolawala said the company is focusing on improving internal accounting controls.
“My first priority is the integrity of our financial statements and remediating the material weakness,” Patolawala said.
ADM has said very little about the ongoing investigation. In the latest earnings call Luciano was not asked about nor did he provide any further details.
In the company’s 10-Q form filed with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission on Sept. 30, 2024, ADM provided the following update on the investigation, in part:
“In response, the company engaged external counsel, assisted by a forensic accounting firm, to conduct an internal investigation, overseen by the audit committee of the company’s board of directors, which is separately advised by external counsel,” ADM said.
The update noted that ADM was “cooperating with the SEC,” and was “unable to predict the final outcome of these investigations with any reasonable degree of certainty.”
SENECA COUNTY, OHIO – The Sunny Farms Landfill, operated by WIN Waste Innovations, is under fire after the Seneca County Board of Health issued a resolution declaring its intent to deny the company’s 2025 operating license. The resolution, passed unanimously, accuses WIN Waste of falsifying inspection reports and violating numerous environmental regulations.
At the heart of the scandal lies Ben Nutter, the individual responsible for overseeing landfill operations. Many community members are calling for him to face legal consequences, with some even suggesting jail time for his role in the alleged misconduct.
A Pattern of Noncompliance
The Board of Health resolution outlines a damning series of violations by WIN Waste at Sunny Farms Landfill. Among the most serious allegations is the falsification of inspection reports. According to the resolution, the company maintained an internal inspection log documenting ongoing erosion and ponding issues, while the reports submitted to the Seneca County General Health District (SCGHD) and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) omitted these issues entirely. This discrepancy raises concerns of intentional deception.
Additionally, WIN Waste is accused of:
Failing to protect the landfill’s intermediate cover from erosion and water damage.
Neglecting to comply with Ohio Administrative Code requirements for erosion control best practices.
Violating hydrogen sulfide emission limits specified in its Title V permit.
Failing to inspect rail cars daily for leaks or spills as required by the conditions of its 2023 and 2024 licenses.
“WIN Waste has failed to comply with its 2023 and 2024 license conditions,” said Dr. Clay Wolph, President of the Seneca County Board of Health. “It does not make sense to issue another operating license with conditions that won’t be followed. The 2023 and 2024 license conditions are more than reasonable and are necessary to safeguard our environment and residents.”
Community Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The revelations have sparked widespread outrage in Seneca County, with residents demanding accountability. Much of the community’s ire is directed at Ben Nutter, whose role in overseeing the landfill has drawn sharp criticism. Many locals argue that Nutter’s failure to enforce compliance and his apparent oversight of falsified reports make him complicit in the scandal.
“Ben Nutter has been the face of oversight for this landfill, yet we’ve seen nothing but failure to protect the community from the environmental hazards this facility poses,” said local activist Karen DuBois. “If these allegations are true, he should face the same consequences as anyone committing fraud—including jail time.”
Several residents have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, with hashtags like #HoldNutterAccountable and #SunnyFarmsFraud trending locally. Activists are organizing town hall meetings to discuss the issue and explore legal action against Nutter and WIN Waste Innovations.
The Path Forward
WIN Waste has 30 days to request a hearing before a hearing examiner, who will issue a recommendation to the Board. The Board’s final decision will determine whether the 2025 operating license is granted or denied. If denied, WIN Waste can appeal the decision to the Environmental Review Appeals Commission (ERAC). In the meantime, the company is permitted to continue operating under its 2024 license, though it has already filed a separate case disputing the conditions of that license.
For many in Seneca County, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Sunny Farms Landfill has long been a source of controversy, with ongoing complaints about odors, groundwater contamination, and public health risks. This latest scandal adds a new layer of mistrust between the community and the landfill operators.
“This isn’t just about a license; it’s about protecting our community from a company that has repeatedly shown it can’t be trusted,” said DuBois. “We need accountability now more than ever.”
A Call for Justice
As the Board of Health moves forward with its proceedings, community members continue to demand answers. Whether through civil penalties or criminal charges, residents insist that both WIN Waste and Ben Nutter be held responsible for their roles in this environmental and ethical failure.
The coming months will reveal whether the legal system and regulatory bodies are prepared to take meaningful action or if Sunny Farms Landfill will remain a symbol of unchecked corporate malpractice in Seneca County.
November 27, 2024 – A routine traffic stop in Pleasant Township turned into a significant drug bust on Tuesday, as a Seneca County Sheriff’s Deputy intercepted a large quantity of suspected narcotics.
The incident began when the Deputy observed a vehicle speeding southbound on N County Road 15, exceeding the posted 55 mph speed limit. The vehicle was stopped near the intersection of CR 38 and CR 15, where it was found to be driven by Megan M. Cooks, 56, of Fremont, Ohio.
Active Warrant and Suspended License
Upon further investigation, the Deputy discovered that Ms. Cooks had an active warrant out of Sandusky County, Ohio. Additionally, she was driving on a suspended license, compounding the legal troubles she would soon face.
Canine Unit Assists in Drug Discovery
The Sandusky County Sheriff’s Office canine unit was called to assist with the traffic stop. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a large amount of suspected Methamphetamine and Cocaine, along with items indicative of drug abuse. Some of these items were reportedly found both in the vehicle and on Ms. Cooks’ person.
Charges Pending Further Investigation
Ms. Cooks was transported to the Sandusky County Jail in accordance with the active warrant. Additional charges for Possession of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Drug Paraphernalia are currently pending the results of further investigation.
A Message from the Sheriff
Sheriff Fredrick W. Stevens praised the Deputy’s actions and emphasized the importance of traffic stops in combating the drug crisis:
“Drug interdiction, the interruption and interception of drugs to prevent them from reaching their destination, is a tactic often used by our Deputies in the context of traffic stops. When one of our Deputies stops a vehicle for a traffic violation and finds a supply of narcotics, it can play a vital role in removing drugs out of our community. A job well done by our Deputy!”
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug Activity
This incident underscores the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to addressing drug activity in Seneca County. Traffic stops remain a critical tool in detecting and intercepting illegal substances before they reach their intended destinations, helping to keep communities safer.
For more information or updates on the case, contact:
Sheriff Fredrick W. Stevens: (419) 447-3456 ext. 7221
Chief Deputy Charles W. Boyer: (419) 447-3456 ext. 7222
No further details are available at this time as the investigation continues.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-09-at-5.11.59 PM.jpg446760Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2024-12-09 18:14:252024-12-09 18:16:31November Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure and Arrest in Seneca County
Seneca County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Shooting Incident in Clinton Township
December 9, 2024 – A shooting incident in Clinton Township has left one man injured and a woman facing charges as the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation.
The incident occurred on Sunday, December 8, when deputies responded to a 911 call reporting that a man had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The caller, a female, stated that alcohol consumption was involved.
Deputies, along with Clinton Township Rescue Fire/EMS personnel, were dispatched to a residence in the 5000 block of East US 224, Tiffin, Ohio. Upon arrival, they found Gary L. Johnson, 40, suffering from a gunshot wound to the shoulder. He was immediately transported to Tiffin Mercy Hospital for treatment.
Investigators determined that an altercation had taken place at the residence, during which a firearm was discharged. Alcohol was confirmed to be a factor in the incident.
As a result, 41-year-old Laurie A. Stacy, of Tiffin, was arrested and charged with Using a Weapon While Intoxicated. She was transported to the Seneca County Jail, where she remains in custody.
The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
For updates or additional information, contact Sheriff Fredrick W. Stevens or Chief Deputy Charles W. Boyer at the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office:
Sheriff Stevens: (419) 447-3456 ext. 7221
Chief Deputy Boyer: (419) 447-3456 ext. 7222
The community is urged to prioritize safety and responsible firearm handling, especially in situations involving alcohol. The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that this case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of combining alcohol with firearms.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Stacy-scaled.jpg21952560Editor-in-Chiefhttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngEditor-in-Chief2024-12-09 17:43:562024-12-09 17:44:54Seneca County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Shooting Incident in Clinton Township
Agents from the Ohio Investigative Unit’s Toledo District executed a search warrant at Smokehouse Bar in Fostoria, Ohio, uncovering a complex illegal gambling operation. The investigation exposed multiple violations, including the illicit sale of Instant Bingo tickets and the operation of electronic video gambling devices that paid out cash prizes.
The raid revealed three unauthorized weekly and monthly raffles, with one prize potentially reaching $20,000. Seized items included:
Seven electronic video gambling devices
14 bags of illegal Instant Bingo tickets
$6,328.90 in cash
Miscellaneous records
Four administrative violations were issued for gambling infractions. Toledo district office agents will present criminal charges for fourth-degree and fifth-degree felony gambling offenses to the Seneca County Grand Jury.
