Ephrata Police Logs

On 5/1/2010 @0245 hrs Ephrata Police arrested Ronald L Simmons Jr for public drunkenness. Simmons was annoying other by yelling at the street at the intersection of Church Ave and Locust Street.

On 3/28/2010 @0230 hrs the Ephrata Police Department initiated a vehicle stop in the 1st block of East Main Street after the driver swerved into the oncoming travel. The driver Rachel Morris was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

On 4/02/2010 @0230 hrs the Ephrata Police Department initiated a vehicle stop on SR222 North bound after receiving a call from another motorist about a reckless driver. Ephrata Police were able to observed  the driver swerving across both lanes of the highway. The driver, Grigalashvili Zurab was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

On 4/28/2010 around 1228 vandalism was discovered to the old mill located at 190 Old Mill Road. Six (6) window panes, about 8”by 10” were broken.  The windows were on the ground level.  Losses estimated $200.00.

On 4/22/2010 A 25 year old male reported to Ephrata Police that his license plate went missing from his vehicle. Anyone finding a Pa plate should turn it over to the local Police.

On 4/20/2010 Two juvenile will be charged through juvenile probation in reference to possession of marihuana at the Ephrata High School .

On 4/30/2010 A resident of 200 block of South Reading Road reported criminal mischief to the roof of her vehicle.

On 5/2/2010 Charges of criminal mischief are pending against 2 teen girls from Ephrata in that they spray painted a vehicle, mailboxes, sidewalk, signs and a building in the 100 block of Heritage Road.

On 5/01/10 Kenneth Godwin of Honeybrook, Pa  Age 35 and Amanda Williams of Akron, Pa  Age 23 were involved in a crash. Godwin was operating a motorcycle South bound on Pa 272/ South State Street when he collided with Williams who was stopped in North bound lane. Godwin’s passenger was thrown from the motorcycle and Godwin became trapped under the motorcycle. Godwin sustained tramatic injury and was taken to Lancaster General Hospital for treatment. His passenger received moderate injuries and also when to LGH. Williams and her passenger were not injured. Investigation continues.

On 4/30/2010 Jennifer Roark of Reinholds and Allison Ohline of Ephrata  Ephrata Police were called to an accident at the intersection of West Main Street and Crescent Ave at 1949 hrs. It was reported that Roark hit the rear of Ohline while they were both traveling westbound. There were no injuries. Roark will be cited for causing the accident.

On 4/28/2010 Jamie Rae Mendenhall (female) Age 18 of Ephrata was charged for retail theft  at the  Weis market 331North Reading road. Mendenhall was observed selecting (2) boxes of Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold tablets, $10.98. After opening the package and secreting the contents. She was confronted by store personal but left before police arrived. She was located nearby and taking into custody. She was cited for summary Retail Theft by EPD and released.

 

On 4/28/2010 Isaiah A. Myers age 19 of Ephrata was charged for retail theft at Redner’s Warehouse Market 423 North Reading Road Ephrata Borough . Myers was observed selecting and concealing a $4.99 box of Band-Aid bandages. He was detained by store security and police were summoned. Myers was cited for summary Retail Theft by EPD.

 

On 4/28/2010 at apporx. 1929 hrs Madeline E. Keays of 1st block of North Charles street Ephrata was taken into custody and charged with one count of summary retail theft for items taken from Martins Country Market 1717 West Main Street Ephrata in value of $40.46.

 

On 4/17/2010 at approx 2335hrs a resident in the 200 block of Duke Street reported a theft of a handgun. The resident is not clear when the theft actually occurred but believes it was sometime within the past two months. Case is currently under investigation.

 

On 4/16/2010 0214 hrs Ephrata Police responded to a report of disturbance in the 500 block of East Main Street. A female reported that she had been struck by a male who also broke her cell phone. Police arrested 23 year old Virgil C. Dunkley III at the scene for simple assault, criminal mischief, and public drunkenness. Mr.  Dunkley was taken to central booking and placed in Lancaster County Prison ILO bail.

On 4/15/2010 at 0854 hrs the Ephrata Police Department attempted to stop Thomas Brunelle II of the 1st  block of Park Ave Ephrata  for operating a motorcycle with a stolen license plate. Brunelle II who was arrested by Pa State Police in Chester County. Brunelle II was incarcerated in Lancaster County Prison.

 

On 3/30/2010 the Ephrata Police Department received a report of a burglay on West Queen Street in Ephrata Borough. During the burglay, the victim had purse and its contents from inside the residence.

Also on April 1 2010 the Ephrata Police Department responded to West King Street in Ephrata Borough. The robbery occurred when occurred when the resident returned home and confronted an unknown female in the kitchen area. The known female stole a cell phone from the victim’s hand and ran from 

the residence. It was later determined that the female took other property items, to include jewelry, from the inside the residence. The estimated value of the stolen property was over $4000.00.Through investigating,  Police determined that the suspect in both incident was Katerine  Santos of Lebanon. Katerine was arrested and charged with Robbery, Burglary, and Theft by Unlawful taking. She is currently incarcerated at Lebanon County Prison for unrelated charges.

 

On 05/09/2010 at 0555 hrs The Ephrata Police Department is investigating an arson that occurred in the housing development in Ephrata Township. Ephrata Police and Pioneer fire Company. Responded to a vacant area of this development where a New Holland bulldozer was set on fire. Ephrata Police are continuing their investigation and anyone with information is asked to call, 717 738 9200  

Vehicle Accident – On 3/15/2010 at 2:20pm Ephrata Police investigated a vehicle accident at the intersection of Meadow Valley road, and royer Road. A car driven by Deb Moyer of Stevens was traveling west on Royer Road, and failed to yeild the right a way at a stop sign. The car entered the intersection and was struck by a car driven by Juliana Brown of Lititz. Moyer, after stopping at the stop sign, failed to see Brown approaching the in:tersection. Both drivers were transported to local hotpitals for treatment of their injurys, Police were assisted at the scene by Lincoln Fire company, Ephrata Rescue, Ephrata Ambulance, and Lincoln and Akron Police.

Vehicle Crash – On Monday 3/16/2010 at approx 5:45pm Rodney Irvin was operating a motor vehicle in the first block of Parkview Heights Road, Ephrata Township, when he lost control of the vehicle on the wet roadway, struck a curb and a fence before rolling the car on the right side, and striking a parked car in the parking lot of Graham’s Auto Sales. No one was injured as a result of the crash. Police are investigating whether alochol played a roll in the cause of the crash. Investigation continuing.

Assalt-On  Monday 4/12/10 at 11:35am Ephrata Police responded to the 100 block of Grant st. for a fight that just occurred. The investigation determined that Manuel Medina, 18 of Ephrata, shot his brother multiple times with a BB gun. Medina was charged with Aggravated Assault and was in incarcerated in Lancaster County Prison on $40,000 bail.

Harassment-On 3/16/10 around 11:48pm EPD dispatched to a 911 call at 85 Regan Dr. a 21 year old female reported being slapped by an 18 year old male in the residence. As a result, Sovichet Suonborai (18), was cited for Harassment.

Harassment (Domestic Violence)-On 3/16/10 at 7:10PM on the 500 block of S. State St. a resident of Ephrata reported that her boyfriend, a 17 year old male, struck her in the face during a domestic argument. There were no signs of recent physical injury. When questioned about the incident, the juvenile admitted to the offense. Patrol issued a NT citation to the juvenile for harassment and he was released.

Theft- On 3/16/10 at 3:15pm the Ephrata Police Department investigated a theft of 2 TVs and 1 speaker taken from a porch in the 100 block of East Walnut St.

Criminal Mischief/ Attempted Break in-3/17/10 at 6pm on the 100 block of W. Fulton St.  a resident  reported unknown person(s) tried to pry out the glass from their rear door to their home during the night of 3/16/10.

Disorderly Conduct-On 3/21 at 2f:30am Donna Mae Shue of the 100 block of Marshall St. Ephrata was cited for Disorderly Contact after showing up at the residence of an ex-boyfriend in the 200 block of Cherry Street where she then began to bang on the door, shouting  and using foul language as well as engaged in a physical altercation with her ex-boyfriend.

Warrant service-On Sunday  3/21/10 at 2:45am, the Ephrata Police were dispatched to the 200 Block of Cherry Street for a disturbance in progress.  It was reported that a male and female were outside arguing. Upon arrival, both involved in the argument had left the area. Witnesses gave the names of both individuals involved. Upon running a check on both names provided, it showed the male Lancaster, William P. Allensworth, had an outstanding Bench Warrant through Luzernne County. At approximately 3:24am the police returned to the 200 block of Cherry St. and located Allensworth inside a residence. Allensworth was taken into custody and transported to County Prison on the outstanding Bench Warrant.

Crash- On saturday 3/20/10 at approximately 12:45am, Andrew Ray Evans of the 100 block of Valley View Drive Ephrata drove his vehicle into a parked van owned by Jordan Wurz of Denver. The crash occurred in the 100 block of E Mohler Church Rd and there were no injuries involoved. Evans was found to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested for DUI . Charges are pending the blood results.

 

Disorderly Conduct- On 3/21/10 at 1:15am. The Ephrata Police were dispatched to the area of Washington Ave. and East Main Street for suspicious activity in progress. Caller reporting four individuals in a vehicle behind a business. Police arrived on the scene and observed the vehicle with the individuals inside. After police watched the vehicle for a short period of time, police made contact with the individuals in the vehicle. All four individuals will be cited for summary disorderly conduct for there actions inside the vehicle.                                                                                                                                                                                                              Jose J. Castro, age 22 of Lancaster

Peter Franklin , age 35 of Philadelphia

Katelin A. MacConnell, age 21 of Ephrata

Jennifer M Steinbrecher, age 18 of Philadelphia

All were cited with a Summary Non-Traffic Citation.

 

DUI Crash- On Wednesday 3/24/10 at 7:00 pm, Ephrata filed DUI charges against David Fredrick Robinson of Ephrata as a result of an investigation of a motor vehicle crash on 3/10/10 on State Route 222 near E. Mohler Church Road. Upon police arrival it was determinded that the driver of the Toyota Celica had fled the scene after driving under a Tractor Trailer causing the crash. He was quickly located by police and identified. Robinson was charged with one count of Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Accidents Involving Damage to Attended Vehicle or Propoerty, and Driving While Operating Privilege is Suspended or Revoked.

 

Stalking- The Ephrata Police Department filed charges against Jermaine Brazzle for Stalking as the result of an investigation where, between 9:54 pm on Wednesday 3/31/10 and 9:59 am on Thursday 4/1/10. Brazzle called the victim while he was in police custody for domestic assult charges and knowing that there was an active PFA and he was not permitted to do so. It occurred on the 100 block of East Main Street.

 

Retail Theft- An employee of Royer Pharmacy, 2 East Main Street, Ephrata, reported that on Wednesday, 4/7/10, between 6:53 pm and 7:03 pm, two unknown white female juveniles entered the store, tore open the packaging of Cover Girl eye pencil and then exited the store without making any attempt to pay for the item.

 

Theft from Motor Vehicle- A resident in the 100 block of Grant Street in Ephrata reported sometime during the evening between Wednesday, 3/24/10 and Thursday, 3/25/10, someone removed his baseball bag from the back of his truck. The baseball bag contained 3 bats, 2 gloves, pair of spikes and several baseballs. The estimated loss is $215.00.

 

Retail Theft- On 3/26/10 at 5:55 pm at the Ephrata Walmart the police arrested 20 year old Steven Michael Homer of Denver, PA, for misdemeanor retail theft. Homer was stopped by Loss Prevention employees after he attempted to exit the store with $469.74 in video games. Homer concealed the video games in his pants and attempted to leave the store without paying for them. Homer was charged and transported to Central Arraignment.

 

Burglary- A burglary was reported for a residence located in the 100 block of East Walnut Street between 3/25/10 to 3/26/10. The victim reports an X-Box 360, 2 controllers, a power pack, and an X-Box game, Call of Duty Modern Warfare, stolen from his residence.

 

Burglary- A resident of Ephrata reported that sometime between 12:05 pm and 12:40 pm on Tuesday 3/30/10, an unknown person(s) entered her residence and stole her purse and contents. Estimated value of the stolen property is $50.00.

 

Stolen License Plate- It was reported that sometime between 6:00 pm on Sunday 3/28/10 and 6:00 pm on Monday 3/29/10 that an unknown person(s) stole the license plate from his 2006 Yamaha FZ6 motorcycle while it was parked underneath the carport located to the rear of his residence in the 200 block of Washington Avenue, Ephrata. The license plate number is VFW74.

 

PFA Violation- Charges were filed against Jermainne Brazzle for 17 counts of violating his PFA. Between 1:22 pm on 4/4/10 and 2:21 on 4/8/10, Brazzle contacted the victim 17 times by phone, including one time through a third party, from the Lanacaster County Prison while he was incarcerated on domestic assault charges and knowning that there is an active PFA against him and not permitted to do so. Brazzle is 28 years old.

 

Theft- A resident reported that on Friday, 4/9/10, between 6:00 pm to 6:10 pm, that an unknown person(s) stole her wallet and contents while she was shopping in the toy department of the Ephrata Walmart.

 

Disorderly Conduct- On 4/3/10 at 10:32 pm, police responded to a call in the 600 block of East Main Street regarding a person holding a gun outside of a moving vehicle. The vehicle was located and stopped by East Cocalico Police in the 1600 block of North Reading Road and was occupied by two 16 year old juvenile males from Denver, PA. A pellet gun pistol was located in the vehicle. Both male juveniles were detained and later released to family members. Both face charges for disordely conduct.

 

Burglary- On 4/2/10 at 12:10 am, a burglary occurred at the Radio Shack store located at 403 North Reading Road, Ephrata. An unknown person smashed the front glass door to gain entry and stole the cash drawer and an undisclosed amount of money. The person fled through the rear door.

 

Theft- The Ephrata Police Department is investigating the theft of a purple bike taken from the 100 block of East Main Street on 4/3/10 at roughly 7:00 pm.

 

Loitering- The police arrested Dennis E. Snook II, 36, of Ephrata for loitering and prowling at night. Police received multiple calls during the late evening hours on 4/3/10 and the early morning hours of 4/4/10 reporting a male looking into windows of houses in multiple locations of the Borough. On 4/4/10 at 1:19 am Police were dispatched to West Main Street in the area of Church Avenue for a suspicious male prowling in the shadows and looking into buildings. Police located Snook in that area, which is where he was identified and arrested.

 

Domestic Assult- On Wednesday, 3/31/10 at 5:26 pm, the Ephrata police department was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of East Main Street in reference to a domestic dispute in progress. Upon arrival, the victim had recent physical injuries at the hands of Jermaine Brazzle. Brazzle was placed under arrest and charged with two counts of Simple Assault - Domestic Violence. Bazzle was transported to the Lancaster Police Department for booking. On Thursday, 4/1/10 at 10:20 am, Brazzle appeared before Judge Cummins for a preliminary arraignment. Bail was set at $5,000. Brazzle was unable to post bail and was remanded to the Lancaster County Prison to await a hearing on the matter.

 

Criminal Mischief- On 3/31/10 around 8:00 am, police took a report of Criminal Mischief to a large window at Michener Engraving, 307 North State Street, Ephrata. Between 5:00 on 3/30/10 and 8:00 on 3/31/10, someone threw stones and broke 5 panes of glass at the rear of the property. 

January 29, 2010

Two people were injured in a motor vehicle accident that occurred on Rt  272 and Grandview Avenue in Ephrata. Leroy T. Landis, age 59, of Denver, PA was exciting the traffic way from the Ephrata Community Hospital to cross over Rt  272 to Grandview Avenue and struck Faye Ann Snavely, age 45, of Stevens, PA broadside. Snavely was traveling south on Rt 272 at the time of the crash.    Police are requesting that anyone who witnessed this accident contact the Ephrata Police Department at 717-738-9200

Hit & Run Crash

Monday January 25, 2010

Following an investigation into a hit & run vehicle crash which occurred at approx 21:50 hours in the 300 block of E. Fulton Street (Ephrata Borough), the Ephrata Police filed a traffic citation against Corrinne Levening, age 26, of Ephrata, for her involvement in the crash.  Levering was the driver of a vehicle which was involved in an accident with another vehicle that was legally parked 9unattended0 and resulted in damage to the other vehicle, and she failed to immediately stop and notify the owner of her name, address, registration, and information related to financial responsibility (insurance) and failed to notify the police department.

Burglary

The resident at 19 E. Main St. Apt 3, reported to police that a single male suspect dressed in black, wearing a mask kicked in the exterior door from his apartment to the fire escape, upon seeing that there were people home in the apartment.  The suspect fled.  No items were taken and no one was hurt inside the apartment.

Investigators from Ephrata Police Department charged Angela Rineholt-Aguina of Windsor PA, and Jose Mercado Cartagena of Lancaster PA, each with one count of Retail Theft and one count of Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Retail Theft. Each charge is a 3rd degree Felony. Both Rineholt-Aguina and Cartagena were involved with stealing televisions from CVS on North Reading Road in December. Rineholt-Aguina was arraigned before MDJ Hamill and sent to Lancaster County Prison on $7,500 bail. Charges are filed against Cartagena.

Investigators from Ephrata Police Department charged Brandon Polynone (24) and Anthony Kashner (27) each with one count of Simple Assault and one count of Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Simple Assault. Both charges are 2nd degree misdemeanors. Polynone and Kashner were charged due to their actions resulting in an assault inside a residence on Crystal Drive. The assault left the victim bruised and severely damaged the inside of the residence. The victim discharged a firearm during the assault. Polynone was arraigned before MDJ Willwerth and sent to Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $75K bail. An arrest warrant has been issued for Kashner and he remains at large. Anyone with information regarding Tony Kashner’s whereabouts should contact. Investigators at the Ephrata Police Department 738-9200.

On January 4th of 2010 Ephrata police were requested to respond to the Wal-Mart, 890 East Main Street, or a vehicle break-in in progress. The female 9-1-1 caller advised the County Radio Dispatcher that the person breaking into the vehicle was wearing a green jacket and was standing next to the vehicle in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Upon arrival, police located the described person and determined that Kandice Salers of Ephrata had locked herself outside of her vehicle. Through further police investigation, police discovered that Salers falsely reported to the Radio Dispatcher that a vehicle break-in was in process to gain a speedy response time from police. Saler was charged with one count of false reports to Law Enforcement Authorities.

On January 5th of 2010 Jon Cramer was arrested for Criminal Mischief after an incident which he allegedly rammed his vehicle into the front of David Prough’s (Middletown Resident) truck. The incident was the result of a dispute in a private driveway in the 100 Block of Schoeneck Road. As a result of the investigation Cramer will be sent an arrest summons for Misdemeanor Criminal Mischief charge. No Injuries occurred to either party, but both Cramer and Prough’s vehicles sustained minor damage.

On January 7th of 2010, Two Ephrata High School students will be cited for Disorderly Conduct following a Mutual Fight on 1-16-10.

On January 8th of 2010, Ephrata Police investigated a Burglary that occurred at 175 Martin Ave./ ECH health Pavilion. Saturday morning it was reported to police that several offices in the Health Pavilion were forcibly entered sometime Friday Night. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Ephrata Police. The Investigation is ongoing.

On January 9th of 2010 A report of theft out of vehicle that occurred overnight 1-8-10/1-9-10 on Carriage Lane.

On January 9th of 2010 Codi Ann Calder (20) reported that her front passenger side window was smashed. Calder’s purse was removed though the broken window. Jewelry and electronics were taken.

On January 9th of 2010 Suspect had rummaged through Len Paul Metkowski (46) vehicle as it was unlocked and parked in his driveway.

On January 12th of 2010, the Ephrata Police investigated a fatal crash. This crash occurred as Jennifer Carr (27) of Elizabethtown was involved in a hit and run crash on Cloverleaf Road. After fleeing the scene of the crash, Carr almost hit a Northwest Regional Police officer head on and entered Eastbound 283 from the Cloverleaf on ramp. Northwest Regional Police pursued the vehicle as it sped away at high rate of speed. Carr then exited Route 283 EB at Route772. Carr was n traveling too fast for the curvature for the off ramp and Carr went into the grass divider and ran a stop sign. Carr continued to the intersection of Route 772 and Carr struck Jay Deiter (43) of Bainbridge. Carr spun and the rear of Carr struck the rear of Deiter. Deiter then struck the guide rail. Carr then came to final rest in the eastbound lane of 722 facing west. Deiter came to a final rest against the guide rail on 772 in the westbound lance facing south. Jennifer Carr was pronounced dead on scene by the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office. Passenger one Beth Flaharty (32) of Elizabethtown was taken to Lancaster General Hospital and is in serious condition.  Jay Deiter was taken to Lancaster General Hospital with minor injuries.

On January 12th of 2010, The PA State Police arrested Tammy Lynn Carper (42) for suspicion of DUI at N. Colebrook Road & Breneman Road. Tammy Carper was encountered after her vehicle became disabled along the roadway, and it was determined that she had consumed alcoholic beverages to the point of impairment. Charges were filed with the local magistrate, Charging Carper with DUI.

On January 12-13th of 2010, The PA State Police at Ephrata investigated a Criminal Attempt, Theft from a motor vehicle. Actor(s) gained entry into Steven Schneider (31) vehicle but did not take anything.

On January 18th of 2010 Ephrata Police Department is investigating a report of a purse stolen out of a vehicle while the vehicle was parked in the 500 Block of North State Street on January 17th. The purse was later found few blocks away.

On January 17th of 2010 Debora Moore (44) of Denver was stopped at approximately 1am Sunday. She was subsequently arrested for DUI. Moore was released to a friend. Moore’s breath test indicated a BAC of .201-.206%.

On January 20th of 2010 Ephrata Police arrested Anthony Ortiz (26) of Neffsville PA on felony retail theft charges at the Ephrata Wal-Mart. Ortiz was stopped by store security after he attempted to exit the store with $766.00 of electronics without making an attempt to pay. Ortiz was arraigned and taken to Lancaster County Prison on $10,000.00 bail.

On January 22nd of 2010 Ephrata Police issued a NT citation to Derrick Sensenig for creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition when he drove his vehicle up onto a large snow bank in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, while having (3) other passengers in the vehicle at the time, an act which served no legitimate purpose. Sensenig was cited and released.

On January 22nd of 2010 Ephrata Police investigated multiple thefts from vehicles that occurred in the first block of E. Franklin Street overnight. All vehicles were left unlocked by their owners. The Ephrata Police would like to remind residents to lock their vehicles.

On January 23rd of 2010 Owner in the 1st Block of East Franklin Street in Ephrata Borough reported someone shot her cat with a BB gun. The cat was taken to the Pet Emergency in Lancaster, x-rays showed the cat was shot in the right eye socket and the BB lodged inside the skull. The owner of the cat believes the incident occurred approx. 19:00 hours while the cat was walking home from her neighbor’s house. Anyone with information is requested to call the Ephrata Police at 738-9200.

On December 24th of 2009 at 08:09 hours, The Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to a vehicle accident with entrapment at the intersection of SR272 and Grandview Ave. in the Ephrata Borough. Along with the Ephrata Police the Lincoln Fire Company, Ephrata Heavy Rescue, Ephrata Ambulance 1-21-1 and Ephrata Medic 4 responded to the scene. Police were informed by Craig Scheirer of Stevens that he drove through a red traffic signal on SR272 at Grandview Ave. and struck the drivers side of a Mercedes Benz SUV driven by Tamela Fassnacht from Ephrata. The Mercedes Benz SUV was then flipped onto its passengers side. Tamela Fassnacht had to be removed from the vehicle by the emergency crew on the scene. Tamela Fassnacht was transported was transported to the Ephrata Community Hospital for minor injuries.

 On December 28th of 2009 A black and blue GT BMX bicycle was stolen at approximately 5:30pm from in front of a business in the 1st block of West Main Street. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Ephrata Police Dept.

 On December 28th of 2009 Ephrata Police Officers were investigating a call for a fight that had just occurred when officers observed Barclay Jr. walking on the sidewalk in the immediate area of the fight. Barclay Jr. gave Ephrata Officers a false name in an attempt avoid being arrested for a probation violation. Ephrata Officers will file charges for false I'D to law enforcement authorities as well as underage drinking against Barlclay Jr. Barlclay Jr. was taken into custody and turned over to the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office for an active bench warrant for the probation violation.

 On January 3rd of 2010 at approximately 12:17pm, Ephrata Police were dispatched to the Wal-Mart for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival, Ephrata Police placed Keith L. Stoltzfus of Harrisburg under arrest for retail theft. Amount of items was worth $269 and then committed to LCP in lieu of Bail.

 On January 1st of 2010 at 01:20 hours, Ephrata Police responded to the 400 block of E. Fulton Street for a domestic disturbance in process. Female victim reported  that she was hit on her face by her boyfriend, Howard Noonan of Ephrata during an argument. Victim sustained minor cut and swelling to her lower lip. Noonan charged with Simple Assault and arraigned before MDJ Willwerth who set bail at $20,000 cash. Noonan could not post bail and was transported to LCP in Lieu of that bail.

 On January 2nd of 2010 at approximately 12:40 hours, Ephrata Police were dispatched to the Wal-Mart located at 890 East Main Street Ephrata PA, for the report of a shoplifter in custody. Upon arrival, Ephrata police placed Jose M. Colon-Espada of Lancaster under arrest for retail theft. Amount of theft $589 and committed to Lanc Co Prison in Lieu of Bail.

 On January 3rd of 2010 Ephrata Police responded to the Getty Mart located at 644 E. Main Street in Ephrata Borough for a reported robbery which occurred at approximately 19:30 hours. A white male suspected entered the store through the front doors. He was average height and build and wore a gray or blue coat, and a stocking hate with a blue bandana over his face. He wielded a large kitchen type knife and demanded money. He took an undetermined amount of cash and fled eastbound on foot, last seen on East Main Street the clerk was not injured as a result of the robbery.

 On January 3rd of 2010 the Ephrata Police Department arrested Aaron McMaster at 00:33 hours for public drunkenness. Officers observed McMaster staggering down the sidewalk in the 300 block of South State Street where he was stopped. McMaster was taken back to the Ephrata Police Station and issued a citation for Public Drunkenness.

 On January 5th of 2010 the Ephrata Police Department arrested Aaron McMaster (21) of Cape Coral Florida for Impersonating a Public Servant. During the week of 11-20-09, Ephrata Police received voice mail messages from McMaster and spoke with him by phone. In each instance, McMaster identified himself as a Sergeant McMaster, US Army recruiter in an attempt to gain information about the release status of a recently arrested subject. The investigation revealed that McMaster was not a recruiter and not in the military. During the course of the investigation McMaster moved from the Ephrata area to Florida. Ephrata Police arrested McMaster on a warrant while he was visiting family in Ephrata on 01-05-2010. McMaster was arraigned, was unable to post bail and is currently incarcerated in Lancaster County Prison.

 On January 5th of 2010 at approx. 11:40 hours, The Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to the intersection of State Street and Fulton Street for a vehicle crash involving three vehicles. Unit 1 a sliver Nissan Quest driven by Jason Dienner was traveling north on State Street and failed to stop for a steady red light traffic light facing his direction of travel. Dienner's vehicle was struck as it entered the intersection by Unit 2 a sliver Chrysler PT Cruiser driven by Erica L. Dluzen. Dluzen who had a green light was traveling west on Fulton Street. After Dluzen's vehicle struck Dienner's vehicle, Dienner's vehicle drifted into on coming traffic and struck a white Buick Lacrosse that was stopped at the intersection for the red traffic light. The white Buick was driven by John W. Nauffts of Lancaster. The only injury was to the passenger of Dienner's vehicle who was taken to Ephrata Community Hospital for treatment and later released.

On December 11th of 2009 Vicki A. Strickler's vehicle rear-ended another vehicle at the intersection of Martin Ave. and North Reading road (272) in Ephrata Borough at approximately 20:00 hours. Strickler was arrested for suspected DUI. She was released from police custody, and charges are pending on the outcome of the blood testing. 

On December 11th of 2009 at 16:20 hours Ephrata Police Department arrested Christopher P. Frese (24) of Dencer for Retail Theft at Wal-Mart in Ephrata Township. Frese removed a can of whipped cream from the dairy case, inhaled the nitrous oxide from the can and returned the item back to the shelf. Frese also left the stroe without paying for portable multimedia player cases. Including the whipped cream, Frese failed to pay for $32.20 worth of merchandise. Frese had prior conviction of Retail Theft making this offense a felony. Frese was incarcerated in Lancaster County Prison after failing to post bail and for violating his probation.

 On December 23rd of 2009 A resident in the 600 block of West Main Street in Ephrata Borough reported to police that his Jeep SUV was vandalized sometime overnight. The owner discovered several deep scratch marks on the driver door around 00:03 hours on Wed. morning of December 23rd. The Ephrata Police Department is asking anyone with information about this incident is to call them at 717-738-9200.

 On December 23rd of 2009 A summary citation was filed for Criminal Mischief on David F. Petofske Jr (18) as a result of a minor vandalism to a window at 123 E. Main Street in Ephrata Borough. Petrofske punched the window breaking it, after leaving a meeting with his Lanc. Co Probation officer at that location.

 On December 23rd of 2009 at 08:27 hours the Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to the 300 block of East Main Street for a burglary not in progress. The victim who owns a detached garage in the block reported that his garage door was open when he arrived this morning on entering he discovered that several power tools, hand tools, and a pressure washer were stolen. Ephrata Police found some evidence of possible suspect(s) and is continuing this investigation. Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to call the Ephrata Police at 717-738-9200.

 On December 27th of 2009 at 06:00 hours the Ephrata Police responded to Grant Street and Marshall Street for a fight in progress. The investigation revealed that Christoper Werner (19) of Ephrata, Travis Weaver (19) of Ephrata, Donna Shue (48) of Ephrata and Amber Coy (18) of Ephrata were fighting in the street. Citations were filled against Weaver and Shue for disorderly conduct. Werner was arrested and cited for disorderly conduct and public drunkenness. Coy was arrested and cited for disorderly conduct.

On December 5th of 2009 Resident of 300 block Railroad Ave. reported parking his vehicle between 11:00 & 3:00am. While he was away from the vehicle someone took a small amount of change & a tool bag with numerous hand tools. The unlocked vehicle was ransacked. The value of the loss is estimated at $400 dollars.

On December 7th of 2009 At Approximately 5:41pm a pickup truck on eastbound on 322 collided with a westbound van turning left at the 222 south on-ramp in Ephrata Township. A female passenger of the van was extricated and taken to Lancaster General Hospital for apparent fractures. The male driver of the van was also transported to Lancaster General injuries unknown. The male driver of the pickup appeared to be uninjured. Emergency crews were on the scene for approximately 90 minutes. The crash is under investigation by the Ephrata Police anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to call 717-738-9200.

On December 6th of 2009 The Ephrata Police were dispatched to the Wal-Mart for the report of a retail theft (in progress). Upon arrival Esteban Diaz (33) of Lancaster PA was placed under arrested and charged for retail theft.

The Ephrata Police Department and Concerns of Police Survivors, Inc a national grief support organization comprised of over 19,893 surviving families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty are asking concerned citizens and law enforcement agencies nationwide to again support Project Blue Light. During the holiday season you are asked to put blue lights in your holiday decorations and your windows and tie blue ribbons on car antennas to show support for law enforcement officers who have given their lives in the line of duty for the citizens they have served. Additionally this will be a show of support for those who continue to work the streets 24 hours a day every day of the year.

Law enforcement families nationwide will be decorating for the holidays in blue again this winter honoring and remembering those law enforcement officers who have given their lives in service to the profession and thanking those officers who continue to work America’s increasingly dangerous streets each and every day of the year. In 1988, COPS received a letter from Mrs. Dolly Craig of Philadelphia pa stating she’d be putting blue lights in her window that holiday season to remember her son in-law Danny’s Gleason who was killed in the line of duty in 1986 and her daughter Pam, Danny’s widow, who will killed in an auto accident earlier that year. She thought others might like to share her idea. Dolly’s idea is now her legacy. We shared it with others and nationwide thousands of blue lights shine in support of law enforcement during the holidays. The color blue is a symbol of peace. Put blue lights in your window; decorate your tree in blue, trim the outside of your home or the police station in blue lights. Let our blue lights shine in support of law enforcement this season. You will be sending a dual message that you support America’s peacekeepers and that you hope the coming year will be a year of peace.

On November 30th of 2009 at about midnight Sunday police stopped Martin Schuize (40) he was driving on Main Street in Ephrata. Martin was subsequently arrested for DUI he gave breath samples indicating an approximately .17% BAC. He was released to a friend. Pending Hearing

On November 21st of 2009 at around 2:40pm Ephrata Police responded to a medical emergency at Ephrata Ave. & 2nd Street. This is near Ephrata Community Hospital. A passer-by reported finding a woman collapsed on the sidewalk. The woman was possibly walking or jogging. She was taken to LGH & her identity is unknown at this time. There is no foul play suspected. Anyone with information regarding her identity is asked to call Ephrata Police Department 717- 738-9200. The woman is very physically fit. She is a white female, in her late 50’s or early 60’s about 150 lbs. brown eyes and short grey hair. She was wearing a Timex watch and no other jewelry. She was wearing black stretch pants, blue jacket & a blue “Jeep” baseball cap and size 7 grey Addidas sneakers

On November 23rd of 2009 Police were called to the Wawa Store for a report of a sick or intoxicated person in the restroom. Police found Sergey Bliznyuk (21) to be passed out in the restroom. Sergey was arrested, cited, and released to a responsible party at the police station.

On November 20th of 2009 at 12:38 hours The Ephrata Police Department stopped to check on a motorist on South State Street at Gerhart Avenue. Ephrata Police observed a white Pontiac sedan sitting on the shoulder of South State Street with two occupants inside. After checking registration and owner information it was learned that the owner of the vehicle had an outstanding warrant out of Philadelphia for aggravated with assault with knife/cutting instrument. Ephrata Police identified the owner and driver as David R. Miles of Jenkintown pa. Miles told police he was on his way to the green dragon and stopped to call for directions. Miles was taken into custody without incident and taken to the Ephrata Police Department. Ephrata Police confirmed and the warrant was still active with Philadelphia Police Officers who came to the Ephrata Police department to take custody of Miles.

On December 4th of 2009 at approximately 00:10 hours homeowner in the 100 block of North Church Street Avenue Ephrata reported that a strange drunken male was passed out on her living room couch. The homeowner reported that the male after making his way inside apparently walked around inside making his way upstairs, opened her child’s bedroom door only to be scared out of the bedroom by the family dog. The male returned downstairs and fell asleep on the couch. The homeowners were only awakened after the child ran to her room to tell her about the intruder. The male was found to be intoxicated and was arrested for defiant trespassing and underage drinking charges. He was released to his parents pending charges being filed with Lancaster Juvenile Probation.

 

Attempt to Obtain Drugs by Fraud- The Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to the Ephrata Community Hospital OB/GYN office on Friday 10/23/09 after patient; Amanda Nexdorf (24) of Akron stole a prescription pad and attempted to pass a forged prescription at Royers Pharmacy in the first block of E. Main Street in Ephrata Borough. Nixdorf admitted stealing prescription pads and forging a prescription and then attempted to have it filled. Criminal Charges were filled in Ephrata District Court on October 28th of 2009 charging Nexdorf with one count of attempting obtain prescription drugs by forgery.

Crash- Friday Night at approximately 10:00pm Ephrata Police were dispatched to a single vehicle crash. The driver Mark Sweigart (21) of Ephrata was not injured and was arrested for DUI and later released to family. Charges pending depending on BAC results.

Armed Robbery- On November 8th of 2009 at approximately 6:42 pm Ephrata Police responded to the Getty Mart located at 644 E. Main Street for a robbery that had just occurred. Police learned that Richard Atkins (56) of Ephrata entered the store displaying a knife and demanding money from the clerk. After committing the robbery Atkins ran from the Getty Mart with an undisclosed amount of cash. Police remained in the area of the Getty Mart and continued searching for Atkins. While searching the area officers located items taken from the Getty Mart. Shortly after locating the items from the Getty Mart officers found Atkins hiding in an alley within the 600 block of E. Main Street and immediately took him into custody. Atkins was charged with robbery and arraigned by MDJ Willwerth then committed to Lancaster County Prison after failing to post $75,000 bail.

Theft out of Vehicle- on November 9th of 2009 Ephrata Police received two reports of items being stolen out of vehicles while the owners where dropping their children off at daycare.

Retail Theft- On November 12th of 2009 the Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to the Redner’s Warehouse Market for a shoplifter in custody. Stephanie Catanzaro was observed by a Redner’s Warehouse Market employee concealing $24.60 in merchandise in a diaper bag. The Ephrata Police Department arrived at the store and arrested Catanzaro for shoplifting. Catanzaro was issued a citation for Retail Theft Summary offense.

Theft by Deception- The Ephrata Police Department was advised of a white male going door to door selling Sunbrite cleaner. The white male completes a demonstration of his product and then offers a sale of the cleaner to the homeowner. In this particular case a purchase was made and paid for with a personal check. The white male had the check made out to him rather then Sunbrite (the company manufacturing the product) Sunbrite was contacted and advised that they do not have a salesman in the area. Please be mindful that scams are often carried out in this manner. If you have any information regarding the scam please contact the Ephrata Police at 717-738-9200.

Vehicle Crash- On Friday November 13th of 2009 at approximately 23:00 hours a 17 YOA male was driving a vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of person(s) or properly when he operated the vehicle too fast for conditions at the crest of the hill on Erbs Bridge Road approaching the Middle Creek Road intersection. The driver lost control of the vehicle traveled off the road way and struck a utility pole. No one was injured as a result of the crash but the vehicle suffered damage which required it to be towed from the scene. The Ephrata Police Department filed a traffic citation against the 17 YOA driver for the Careless Driving.

Disorderly Conduct- On November 13th of 2009 at approx. 21:30 hours we were called to a fight at the intersection of West Main Street and Church Street through the investigation Harold Keith will be charged with disorderly conduct for his actions.

Theft- The Ephrata Police Department was advised of a theft complaint that occurred sometime between Friday November 13th and Monday November 16th of 2009 at 222 Travel Plaza in Ephrata Township. Seven wheels and tires were stolen off an empty tank trailer, leaving the trailer on one tire and cinder block. If anyone may have any information regarding this theft investigation please call the Ephrata Police at 717-738-9200.

Criminal Mischief- On Monday November 16th between 15:30 and 15:45 hours Kevin Andrews (21) Adrianna Doyle (20) Becca Simmons (19) and a YOA male juvenile (16) were observed defacing/damaging the pavilion and picnic tables in the Highland Habitat for Discovery with graffiti. Estimated cost to repair the damage is $500. Ephrata Police issued NT citations for Criminal Mischief (summary) to Andrews, Doyle, Simmons and they were released. The juvenile was referred to the Youth Aid Panel for alternate disposition.

Attempted Burglary- The Ephrata Police Department was advised of an attempted burglary at Fisher Distributing Wednesday Morning. Employees reported someone broke the office window over night but did not succeed in entering the building. Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this burglary is pleased to call EBP at 717-738-9200.

Burglary- Ephrata Police were dispatched to the China Taste restaurant Wednesday morning. Employees related that overnight someone had forced their way inside and stole cash from the register. Anyone with any information is to contact EBP at 717-738-9200.

Accident- On November 11th of 2009 at approximately 02:30 hours the Ephrata Police Department responded to a vehicle accident in the 100 block of Parkview Hights Road (Ephrata Township). A vehicle driven by a 14 year old male with a  14 year old passenger traveled east in the 100 block of Parkview Hights Road, lost control and crashed. Both driver and passenger fled the scene. Both driver and passenger were identified and charges pending. 

Drug Violation- On October 10th of 2009 Ephrata Police responded to a complaint of loud music and person(s) at 250 Church Avenue investigation revealed that several juveniles were involved in underage drinking, possessed a marijuana pipe and that the pip was owned by Jody Hess. After the investigation, charges were filed against Hess on October 29th of 2009.   

Retail Theft- On October 19th of 2009 Ephrata Police Department were informed of three individuals committing the crime of retail theft at the Kmart store in Ephrata. Police quickly identified Ricardo Valdespino, Jason Wanner, and the third person is responsible for the thefts that occurred on October 16th, 17th and the 18th at Kmart. On October 25th of 2009 the Ephrata Police responded to the Kmart store in Ephrata and took Valdespino into custody for Retail Theft after he exited the store. Valdespino was arraigned on charges, and then committed to Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. Police then filed criminal charges against Wanner for his involvement with the thefts and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On October 27th of 2009 Ephrata Police observed Wanner operating a vehicle and a traffic stop was conducted in the Denver area. Wanner was taken into custody without incidents. East Cocalico Police assisted with the warrant service. Wanner was arraigned on charges, then committed to Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. The third person involved is currently under investigation.

Theft by Unlawful Taking- On October 20th a resident of the 200 block of Duke Street in Ephrata Borough called police on Tuesday October 20th after finding his window unit air conditioner missing from his porch. Later that day Ephrata Police Officers initiated a vehicle stop that led to the three men admitting to stealing the air conditioner that officers observe in the bed of their truck. The Ephrata Police Department filed Criminal charges in Ephrata District court on Wed. 28th charging Eric Unaugst (29) and Andrew Marks (19) both from of the 200 block of North State Street, Ephrata and Michael Spoo (20) of the 1100 block of South Reading Rd, Bowmansville with one count of theft by unlawful taking and criminal conspiracy. 

Theft of Service- On October 30th of 2009 the Ephrata Police charged Ricky Ulrich (51) of Ephrata, for theft of service. The investigation revealed that Ulrich tapped into the cable service and was not authorized to do so.

Burglary- Between October 31st and November 1st a home was entered on Jeff Avenue and a cash register containing cash was taken.  

Retail Theft- The Ephrata Police Department was advised of a retail theft that occurred at the K-Mart. Loss Prevention officers observed Matthew Skowood (20) taking a DVD from display and tuck it in his waist band. Skowood exited the store without paying the retail price of the DVD. Skowood was committed to Lancaster County Prison in lieu $5,000.00 bail. Lancaster County Probation assisted the police department by violating Skowood’s current probation status and issuing a detainer for his arrest. 

Retail Theft- On November 3rd of 2009 at approximately 5:02pm, Ephrata Police was dispatched to the Wal-Mart for the report of a shoplifter in custody. Upon arrival the suspect, later identified as Keith W. Chapin (21), was placed under arrest for retail theft. 

Fatal Accident- On Tuesday November 3rd at 1829 hours, the Ephrata Police Department was dispatched to a vehicle accident at the intersection of North Reading Road and Martin Avenue, Ephrata Borough. A vehicle, driven by Logan Potts (68) of Akron and Matthew Gold (24) of Denver traveling westbound on Martin Avenue. Potts was pronounced dead at Ephrata Community Hospital. Witnesses report that Potts failed to stop for a red traffic signal. Ephrata Police were assisted at the scene by Ephrata Ambulance, Lincoln fire Department, Ephrata Rescue and local fire police officers. The investigation of the vehicle accident continues. Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to contact Ephrata Police at 717-738-9200

Theft- A green colored BMX style bicycle was stolen from the bike rack to the rear of the Ephrata High School on October 7th of 2009 during the school day. The bike had distinctive blue brake cables and gold grips.

Public Drunkenness- On October 13th of 2009 at 2034 hours Ephrata Police cited Billy McRae (44) of Ephrata with public drunkenness.

Disorderly Conduct- On October 14th at 1442 hours while on patrol in the area of Ephrata Senior High School, an officer observed a 16 year old female punching a male and female in the face. The 16 year old was taken into custody and later cited with disorderly conduct, a summary offense.

Theft from Vehicle- On October 14th of 2009 two subwoofer speakers and an amplifier were taken from a car sometime between 9pm on October 13th & 0700 hours on October 14th. The vehicle was parked in an alley to the rear of the 1st block of North Church Street. Anyone with any information please contact the Ephrata Police Department.

Theft from Vehicle- On October 16th of 2009 there were a number of theft out of vehicle in the area of Lincoln Rd and Buch Mill Rd overnight.

Stolen Vehicle- On October 17th of 2009 a black 1998 Honda Civic 2-door coupe was stolen from the 100 block of Tom Ave overnight between Friday October 16th thru Saturday October 17th

Recovered Stolen License Plate- On Sunday October 18th at 0303 hours the Ephrata Police observed a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt parked at Wawa, the registration plate came back as stolen from Lancaster City. Kyle Whitmeyer, vehicle owner was arrested at the scene for Receiving Stolen Property.

Vandalism to Vehicle- A resident in the 100 block of Irene Avenue called police on Wed. Morning October 21st of 2009 after discovering that the hood of his truck had been spray painted by vandals overnight. The resident told police that he backed his vehicle into his driveway on Tuesday evening and did not hear or see anything suspicious. Ephrata Police are asking anyone who may have information to call 717-738-9200

Public Drunkenness- On October 23rd of 2009 at 1426 hours Ephrata Police arrested Frank Schubert (53) of Ephrata for Public Drunkenness in the 800 block of Martin Ave.

DUI- Frank Schubert (53) was reported to police to be driving while intoxicated. He was observed driving in the 500 block of Stevens Road in Ephrata Twp and was stopped for erratic driving. He was arrested for suspicion of DUI and submitted to a blood test. DUI charges will be filed pending the results of the blood test.

Public Drunkenness- On October 23rd of 2009 at 2002 hours Ephrata Police arrested Frank Schubert (53) of Ephrata for Public Drunkenness in the first block of Valerie Ave.