FOSTORIA | In the 9’O Clock hour of New Years Eve Fostoria Police Responded for the second time to a Lot at 461 w Lytle St. The report given to dispatch and transmitted over the scanner was “he hit her & the baby”.
Police took 1 male into custody who claimed not to be intoxicated & refused a Breathalyzer test. He was taken to Fostoria Community Hospital to be checked out for any injuries prior to planned incarceration.
Inmate was transported to Hancock County Jail.
Updates will be posted as The Fostoria Free Press follows this story.
REAL TIME Status of Inmate: inmates.findlayohio.gov
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https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-31-at-9.57.33-PM.jpg6081090Citizen 24https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngCitizen 242025-12-31 23:04:022026-01-01 14:29:47Report “He hit her & the baby: Fostoria Police Arrest 1 Male at 461 W. Lytle for DV
A shipment of lobster worth about $400,000 was recently stolen while it was being trucked to Costco warehouses, in what authorities and the shipping company describe as a cargo-theft style heist.
What happened
A logistics company called Rexing Companies had arranged transportation for a high‑value load of frozen (not live) lobster from Taunton, Massachusetts to Costco stores in Illinois and Minnesota.
The load was picked up earlier in December, but the truck never arrived; the GPS tracking was reportedly disabled shortly after departure and the shipment vanished in transit.
How the thieves pulled it off
The company’s president, Dylan Rexing, says he believes the culprit was a driver or carrier impersonating a legitimate trucking firm, using spoofed emails, burner phones, and fraudulent documents to get assigned the load.
This fits a broader pattern in U.S. cargo theft in which organized groups pose as approved carriers, pick up high‑value loads (like food, electronics, or pharmaceuticals), then quickly disappear and resell the goods through gray or black‑market channels.
Who is investigating and what it means
The FBI is reportedly investigating the lobster theft, but as of the latest reports there have been no public announcements of arrests or recovery of the seafood.
Rexing Companies has called the loss “significant” for a mid‑sized brokerage and warned that cargo theft of this kind ultimately raises costs that can trickle down to consumers through higher prices.
If you are wondering about practical impacts, there is currently no indication that specific Costco locations are naming product shortages tied directly to this load, but the case is being cited as another example of rising organized cargo theft targeting food shipments.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-30-at-4.06.21-PM.jpg9241404Josh Tolentohttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngJosh Tolento2025-12-30 17:07:332025-12-30 17:36:32A shipment of lobster worth about $400,000 was recently stolen while it was being trucked to Costco warehouses
Published: December 29, 2025 | Last Updated: December 29, 2025
LORAIN COUNTY, OH | In a significant development following our November 4, 2025, report on the intertwined criminal cases against Roger N. Mincey and Ashley Lenhart in Lorain County, a jury has found Mincey guilty on 12 out of 14 charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. The verdict, delivered on November 12, 2025, marks a critical step in the prosecution of these heinous allegations, which stem from incidents dating back to 2020.
Mincey, 40, of Elyria, Ohio, was indicted in January 2024 (Case No. 24CR110392) on 13 felony counts and one misdemeanor, including rape, complicity to commit rape, complicity to sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, complicity to gross sexual imposition, pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, endangering children, compelling prostitution, and pandering obscenity. The charges accused Mincey of raping and molesting a preteen girl who is a relative of his former girlfriend, allegedly offering the woman money to facilitate access to the victim. An additional finding on one of the counts confirmed that the victim was less than 10 years old at the time of the offense.
The multi-day jury trial, presided over by Lorain County Common Pleas Judge Donna Freeman, began in early November 2025. After five days of testimony, closing arguments were presented, and jury instructions were read on November 10. Deliberations commenced the following day at 8:30 a.m., with the jury reaching a unanimous verdict by approximately 1:32 p.m. on November 12. Mincey was found guilty on Counts 1 through 8, 10, 11, 13, and 14—all felonies. He was acquitted on Count 9 and Count 12 was dismissed upon a Rule 29 motion. Following the verdict, Mincey’s bond was revoked, and he was remanded to the Lorain County Correctional Facility (LCCF) to await sentencing.
This conviction builds on earlier indictments from 2021, where Mincey faced similar charges involving minors identified as ML and ZM, though those cases appear to have been consolidated or expanded into the 2024 proceedings. The 2024 case focused primarily on the abuse of the preteen relative, highlighting a pattern of exploitation and endangerment.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., where Judge Freeman will determine Mincey’s punishment. Given the severity of the charges—many of which are first- and second-degree felonies—Mincey faces the possibility of life imprisonment without parole on the rape counts, along with mandatory sex offender registration. Prosecutors from the Lorain County Prosecutor’s Office, led by attorneys at the Justice Center, have emphasized the need for accountability in protecting vulnerable children.
Mincey’s co-defendant, Ashley Lenhart, 35, who shared the same Fifth Street address, faces her own set of related charges from 2021 and potentially 2024, including rape, sexual battery, and endangering children. While her case remains separate, the overlapping allegations suggest complicity in the offenses. Updates on Lenhart’s proceedings were not detailed in the recent docket entries, but her trial may follow similar scrutiny.
Community response to the verdict has been one of relief, with local advocates for child protection praising the jury’s decision. As one anonymous forum commenter noted during the trial, “These cases drag on too long, but justice for the victims is finally in sight.” The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, which handled Mincey’s arrest on November 4, 2025, and subsequent transport, continues to support the investigation.
This case underscores the challenges in prosecuting child sexual exploitation crimes, including trial delays due to discovery, motions, and speedy trial waivers. For the latest developments, monitor the Lorain County Common Pleas Court dockets or official announcements from the prosecutor’s office. Mincey is presumed to maintain his innocence pending any appeals, but the guilty verdict stands as a strong affirmation of the evidence presented.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-29-at-10.40.35-PM.png6721010Josh Tolentohttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngJosh Tolento2025-12-30 00:00:312025-12-30 17:36:48Elyria Man Roger Mincey Convicted on 12 Counts in Child Sexual Abuse Case
Detailed Summaries of Reported Drug Busts in Findlay, Ohio (2025)
February 2025: Parkwood Drive Drug Bust
The Hancock County METRICH Drug Task Force, along with the Findlay Police Department Emergency Response Team and Hancock County Special Response Team, executed search warrants at two residences on Parkwood Drive. Authorities seized 26 Suboxone strips, over 300 prescription pills, stolen credit cards, $490 in cash, two guns, and drug paraphernalia. One man was arrested, with charges expected against a 22-year-old and a 36-year-old for possession and permitting drug abuse.
Early on March 5, the Hancock County METRICH Drug Task Force raided a home in the 200 block of Cherry Street, arresting 34-year-old Porshia Frisbie on a drug trafficking charge. Authorities seized nearly 100 grams (96 grams reported) of liquid cocaine in vials, cash, and items indicative of drug trafficking. Additional possession and trafficking charges were anticipated.
On April 11, three individuals—Brianne Settlemire, Jeremiah Meeks, and Shela Long—were arrested after a narcotics search warrant at a Lester Avenue home. The raid uncovered suspected methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Additional trafficking and possession charges were expected.
August 2025: Multi-Agency Major Bust (Including Rector Avenue Fentanyl)
Early August (Rector Avenue): On August 6, a search warrant on Rector Avenue led to one arrest and the seizure of 265 suspected pressed fentanyl pills, two firearms (one stolen from Findlay), and drug trafficking paraphernalia.
Late August Multi-Location Raid: On August 20-21, a multi-agency operation involving the FBI seized hundreds of grams of cocaine, ketamine, psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA, LSD tablets, over 250 suspected fentanyl pills, firearms (including stolen ones), and trafficking evidence from multiple sites.
October 2025: Major Vapor Vape Shop and Controlled Deliveries
October 7-8 (Major Vapor): Following complaints of illegal marijuana sales to adults and juveniles, a search warrant at Major Vapor vape shop yielded suspected marijuana products, vapes, THC and psilocybin edibles, a handgun, and cash. Trafficking and possession charges pending.
October 28-30 Controlled Deliveries: Assisted by the FBI, three controlled reverse deliveries stemmed from a multi-kilogram cocaine seizure investigation, leading to five arrests of Findlay buyers.
November 2025: Shinkle Street Cocaine and Firearms Seizure
Following complaints and a traffic stop on October 19 yielding 8 grams of cocaine, a scale, and a loaded Glock, a November 4-6 search warrant at 108 Shinkle Street led to the arrest of 20-year-old Chance Musgrave on charges including possession, concealed weapons, and trafficking. Ongoing surveillance noted heavy traffic linked to prior drug/firearm cases.
Small Town Findlay, Ohio – home to around 40,000 residents – embodies classic small-town living in northwest Ohio. Far from the hustle of big cities like Columbus (over 900,000 people) or Cleveland (around 370,000), Findlay offers quiet streets, friendly neighbors, and a relaxed pace without skyscrapers, gridlock traffic, or overwhelming urban crowds.
Drug-related issues exist, as in many communities—the Hancock County METRICH Drug Task Force made several busts in 2024-2025, seizing methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and more—but these remain targeted enforcement efforts rather than widespread daily concerns.
Property Crime (Theft, Burglary, etc.)
Findlay: ~17 per 1,000
Fostoria: ~12 per 1,000 in recent reports
Property crime is the bulk in both towns—Findlay has more volume due to larger size/commercial areas, but per-person rates are similar or slightly higher in Fostoria.
Drug Crime
Both towns see regular busts via METRICH Task Force:
Findlay — Frequent seizures (meth, fentanyl, cocaine in 2024-2025 raids).
Fostoria — Similar targeted operations.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/478352574_1029413112553271_414684278146713570_n.jpg9991440Citizen 24https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngCitizen 242025-12-26 18:04:012025-12-26 19:18:16Small Town Findlay: A Higher Chance of Getting Robbed Compared to Fostoria
The Seneca County Coroner’s Office has wrapped up its investigation into the tragic November shooting in Tiffin that claimed four lives, including two young children, confirming all deaths were caused by gunshot wounds in a triple homicide followed by suicide.
The incident unfolded on November 19, 2025, in the 100 block of Huss Street when police responded to reports of shots fired around 6:24 p.m.
Autopsies, performed on November 21 by the Lucas County Coroner’s Office with Seneca County officials present, revealed:
Dustin Willey, 29: Died from multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck, torso, and back – ruled homicide.
A 7-year-old boy: Multiple gunshot wounds to the head and neck – ruled homicide.
A 7-month-old infant: Single gunshot wound to the head – ruled homicide.
Ryan Eagon, 42: Single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head – ruled suicide (toxicology showed presumptive positive for caffeine only).
Authorities described the event as stemming from domestic issues. The children’s mother was in the process of moving out and had enlisted Willey (father of the older child) for help, believing Eagon was out of town. Eagon unexpectedly returned, leading to the fatal confrontation in the driveway.
The mother, uninjured, carried her wounded children inside before emergency crews arrived. First responders transported victims to local hospitals, where three were pronounced dead; the 7-year-old succumbed later.
This devastating case highlights the dangers associated with domestic conflicts. Local resources for those experiencing domestic violence include Sisters in Shelter in Tiffin (567-205-8771) and national hotlines.
The Tiffin community continues to mourn the loss, with previous vigils held in remembrance. The full investigation is closed, with no further charges expected.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-26-at-4.51.51-PM.png8761584Josh Tolentohttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngJosh Tolento2025-12-26 17:54:352025-12-26 19:18:21Coroner Releases Causes of Death in November Tiffin Triple Murder-Suicide
In a holiday ruse gone wrong, authorities in Jeffersontown, Kentucky (a city in Jefferson County, often referred to locally in township-like terms within the county) uncovered more than 55 pounds of methamphetamine cleverly wrapped as Christmas gifts during a major drug bust just days before Christmas.
On December 22, 2025, Jeffersontown Police detectives, working alongside Kentucky State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), conducted a narcotics investigation in the 11500 block of Bluegrass Parkway. The operation led to the arrest of 23-year-old Jacob Talamantes from Nebraska.
According to police reports, Talamantes arrived at the location in a vehicle. When confronted, he attempted to walk away but was detained. A K-9 unit alerted to the presence of narcotics, prompting a search of the trunk. Inside, officers discovered multiple boxes and packages intricately wrapped in festive Christmas paper—containing over 55 pounds of suspected methamphetamine.
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Talamantes reportedly admitted to investigators that he was traveling from Iowa with the intent to sell the drugs. He was charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (methamphetamine) and booked into Louisville Metro Corrections. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.
“No amount of festive wrapping can disguise the harm these drugs inflict on families and communities,” said Jeffersontown Police Chief Richard Sanders. “The coordinated efforts of partner agencies ensured these holiday-wrapped packages never reached the streets.”
This seizure represents a significant blow to drug trafficking in the region, highlighting ongoing collaborative efforts to combat the flow of methamphetamine into Kentucky communities.
The case underscores the creative—and dangerous—methods used by traffickers, especially during the holiday season when disguised packages might blend in more easily. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-25-at-10.37.15-PM.png6721200Citizen 24https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngCitizen 242025-12-25 23:42:012025-12-26 13:02:20The ‘Elf on the Meth Shelf’: 55 Pounds of Meth Disguised as Christmas Presents Seized in Jeffersontown, Kentucky
In the quiet hours around 1:30 a.m., a nocturnal visitor turned petty thief struck in the secured apartment complex near the YMCA in Fostoria, Ohio. The resident heard suspicious sounds from the outdoor laundry room, followed by rustling near their front door. Moments later, the intruder descended the stairs and vanished—along with the apartment’s tan doormat featuring an Ohio State logo.
This wasn’t the thief’s first visit. Just last week, a pair of pink pliers had disappeared from the same doorstep.
The resident has filed a report with the Fostoria Police Division, emphasizing that the concern goes beyond the missing doormat. It’s about someone prowling the secured building in the middle of the night, taking items that don’t belong to them. As the post notes, “We work hard for what we have, especially my wife, and for her to have something she was so excited about taken from her really hurts my heart and burns my ass.”
Authorities are asking the public to keep an eye out for anyone possessing or trying to sell a gently used tan Ohio State doormat—or those distinctive pink pliers. The good news? The complex is equipped with plenty of security cameras, which may have captured the culprit in the act.
While the boldness of swiping a doormat might raise a chuckle—after all, it’s not exactly the score of the century—the incident highlights a real issue with nighttime intrusions in the area. If you spot the items, contact the Fostoria Police Division.
In a town where Buckeye pride runs deep, stealing an Ohio State doormat feels like a particularly low blow. Here’s hoping the footage leads to a quick resolution—and the safe return of one very enthusiastic fan’s welcome mat.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-23-at-12.53.17-PM.png6321206Josh Tolentohttps://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngJosh Tolento2025-12-23 13:56:062025-12-23 15:10:04Midnight Heist in Fostoria: Thief Makes Off with Prized Ohio State Doormat
A Fostoria man was arrested Sunday (12/21) for theft, criminal damaging and criminal trespassing at Wood County Hospital, 950 W. Wooster St.
Bowling Green Police were called to the hospital around 1 a.m., for a man who had been discharged hours before but had not left the facility. Police found the 55-year-old with his pants reportedly weighted down by items he had taken from a desk.
When asked if he had stolen the items and damaged property, the man allegedly told police he had and said, “I have very sticky fingers for some stupid reason.”
In his pockets, police found scissors, a stapler, tape dispenser, folding hex key set, and light bulbs for a Christmas tree.
The man was taken to Wood County Jail.
https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f7acacf3-248b-4488-8004-f71d6483dee0_750x422.webp422750Citizen 24https://thefostoriafreepress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-01-at-9.19.31 PM-1030x926.pngCitizen 242025-12-23 13:35:532025-12-23 14:07:29Bowling Green | Fostoria man arrested for stealing items from hospital
A 32-year-old woman from Liberty Center, Ohio, has been indicted on serious charges involving the sexual assault of a young child, according to recent court records and local reports.
Mara Silva was booked into the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio following her indictment for rape of a child under the age of 13. The charges describe the offense as involving “sexual conduct” with a 6-year-old victim during a two-week period from October 16 to October 29, 2025. Court documents classify the act as “non-forcible,” though critics note that such distinctions offer little consolation in cases involving minors incapable of consent whether the offender is male or female.
The indictment comes in the context of a prolonged child custody dispute. Henry County court records indicate that Silva has been involved in an ongoing custody battle spanning approximately three years.
Key Details from Court Records
Accused: Mara Silva, 32, Liberty Center, Ohio
Charge: Rape of a child (described in documents as non-forcible sexual conduct)
Victim Age: 6 years old
Alleged Incident Dates: October 16–29, 2025
Related Context: Ongoing 3-year child custody case in Henry County
Public court documents related to the case can be accessed through the Henry County Clerk of Courts online portal (specific search links available via official channels).
This case has raised concerns about child safety and the intersection of family law disputes with criminal allegations. Authorities have not released additional details about the ongoing investigation or the custody proceedings to protect those involved.
Local communities are reminded to prioritize child protection and report any suspicions of abuse to appropriate authorities.
This article is based on publicly shared information from court records and local news reports as of December 2025. Developments in legal cases can change rapidly; readers are encouraged to consult official sources for the latest updates.
