Tampering with public records
EAST WHITELAND — A Phoenixville man was charged with tampering with public records and sworn falsification to authorities after a 2011 incident, according to police.
Michael T. Madgin, 58, also known as Michael Modgen and Michael Viau, is accused of making several fake state driver’s licenses, according to police.
He is expected in front of District Judge Annalisa Sondergaard on April 25 at 8:30 a.m.
Shoplifting from pharmacy
LOWER POTTSGROVE — Township police arrested one person after an alleged shoplifting incident Sunday night.
Robert Pagnotta, 29, of Lower Pottsgrove, was allegedly seen concealing candy in the CVS Pharmacy in the 1700 block of Rosewood Court.
According to police, a store supervisor allegedly saw Pagnotta try to leave the store with the candy.
When responding officers went to speak with Pagnotta, they noticed he was drunk, “to a degree where he was a danger to himself and other,” police noted in the report.
The candy was recovered and Pagnotta was arrested, police said.
During an investigation, police discovered Pagnotta was banned from the pharmacy.
Pagnotta was charged with several misdemeanors including retail theft and criminal trespassing.
He was arraigned by Edward C. Kropp Sr. on March 31 and is expected in the same courtroom on April 21 at 8:30 a.m.
Indecent assault in Trappe
TRAPPE — A Trappe resident was charged with indecent assault on Feb. 5, police said.
According to state police, troopers responded to a house in the 700 block of West Main Street around 9 a.m.
A 23-year-old Philadelphia woman was the victim in an alleged domestic dispute.
After an investigation, police charged 27-year-old Richard Francesco in connection with the incident.
Harassment at Gap
WALLACE TWP. — A Pottstown man is being accused of harassment after an incident at a retail shop on Feb. 10.
According to police, a 16-year-old Gap employee was pushed by another employee.
The suspect also allegedly kicked the victim in the face at the store in the 100 block of Devereux Road around 7 a.m.
Police did not name the suspect or the victim.
Burglary investigation
HONEY BROOK — Police are investigating a burglary and are asking the public for help in finding the suspects.
According to police, a house in the 200 block of Fieldstone Road was burglarized between midnight on Feb. 19 and 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24.
The homeowners told police two laptop computers and a painting were taken from the house.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-486-6280.
DUI in Limerick
LIMERICK — Police charged a woman with driving under the influence after the car she was driving was spotted on the shoulder of Route 422.
According to state police, Katelyn Tornetta, 22, of Pottstown, failed her field sobriety tests around 2:41 a.m. on March 1.
Tornettas 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse had major damage to the passenger side, police said. However, police did not know when the damage to the car occurred.
She was transported to the Skippack barracks for a breath test, police said.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Father charged with involuntary manslaughter, allegedly shook infant
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
UPDATE 5:14 p.m.: A call to the hospital was not returned, but the investigating officer said the infant is still alive.
POTTSTOWN – A borough man is facing involuntary manslaughter charges after allegedly shaking his three-month-old daughter so hard she needed to be placed on a ventilator at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
After extensive testing, doctors at the children’s hospital determined the infant suffered a stroke, a brain bleed, paralysis on the right side of body, convulsions and bruises on her left side, the center of her chest and on her chin.
Kenneth Thomas Conley, 20, was at home alone with the infant on March 13 around 6:50 p.m. when the incident occurred, police said in the affidavit of probable cause.
According to police, Conley was holding his daughter while she stood on his legs when he reached for a drink on the table causing her to wobble. The two allegedly bumped into each other; the baby’s chin hit Conley’s chin, police said.
Conley allegedly became “enraged,” then “violently shook the baby three to five times,” police said in the affidavit.
The infant cried and then when limp not long before the mother came home and called emergency services to the house in the 200 block of King Street.
The infant was transported to the Pottstown Memorial Medical Center, where she was treated for a concussion, police said. In subsequent interviews with police, Conley admitted to being too afraid to tell emergency personnel at Pottstown and at CHOP that he shook the infant.
When the infant started throwing up and suffering convulsions later on March 13, she was taken to CHOP, police said.
During a March 20 interview at the Pottstown Police Department, Conley, “kept reinforcing that the only thing that happened was that their chins collided,” police said.
Despite being told about the seriousness of his daughters condition, his story did not change.
However, less than hour later, Conley was back at the police department and allegedly told officers that he did shake his daughter.
Police said Conley was visibly upset.
During the interview, Conley allegedly told police, “she started to cry, then (I) started to cry. (I) held her a few minutes then her body went limp,”
Conley was charged with aggravated assault, criminal attempt at involuntary manslaughter, simple assault, involuntary manslaughter, and other related offenses.
He was arraigned by District Judge Kenneth E. Deatelhauser and his bail was set at $200,000. Conley is expected in the courtroom of District Judge Edward C. Kropp Sr. on April 2 at 11 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
UPDATE 5:14 p.m.: A call to the hospital was not returned, but the investigating officer said the infant is still alive.
POTTSTOWN – A borough man is facing involuntary manslaughter charges after allegedly shaking his three-month-old daughter so hard she needed to be placed on a ventilator at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
After extensive testing, doctors at the children’s hospital determined the infant suffered a stroke, a brain bleed, paralysis on the right side of body, convulsions and bruises on her left side, the center of her chest and on her chin.
Kenneth Thomas Conley, 20, was at home alone with the infant on March 13 around 6:50 p.m. when the incident occurred, police said in the affidavit of probable cause.
According to police, Conley was holding his daughter while she stood on his legs when he reached for a drink on the table causing her to wobble. The two allegedly bumped into each other; the baby’s chin hit Conley’s chin, police said.
Conley allegedly became “enraged,” then “violently shook the baby three to five times,” police said in the affidavit.
The infant cried and then when limp not long before the mother came home and called emergency services to the house in the 200 block of King Street.
The infant was transported to the Pottstown Memorial Medical Center, where she was treated for a concussion, police said. In subsequent interviews with police, Conley admitted to being too afraid to tell emergency personnel at Pottstown and at CHOP that he shook the infant.
When the infant started throwing up and suffering convulsions later on March 13, she was taken to CHOP, police said.
During a March 20 interview at the Pottstown Police Department, Conley, “kept reinforcing that the only thing that happened was that their chins collided,” police said.
Despite being told about the seriousness of his daughters condition, his story did not change.
However, less than hour later, Conley was back at the police department and allegedly told officers that he did shake his daughter.
Police said Conley was visibly upset.
During the interview, Conley allegedly told police, “she started to cry, then (I) started to cry. (I) held her a few minutes then her body went limp,”
Conley was charged with aggravated assault, criminal attempt at involuntary manslaughter, simple assault, involuntary manslaughter, and other related offenses.
He was arraigned by District Judge Kenneth E. Deatelhauser and his bail was set at $200,000. Conley is expected in the courtroom of District Judge Edward C. Kropp Sr. on April 2 at 11 a.m.
Police Briefs for the tri-county area: March 25, 2014
Stolen credit card
POTTSTOWN — Pennsylvania State Police are investigating charges made with a stolen credit card.
According to police, the 29-year-old victim reported a Visa card stolen in January of this year and police are looking into charges at Wal-Mart and Sheetz totalling $1,322.
Anyone with information should call police at 484-340-3241.
Driving under the influence
CHARLESTOWN — A Phoenixville man was charged with driving under the influence after police stopped his car on March 8.
According to police, Kenneth Bouder, 39, was stopped on Route 29 north of Charlestown Hunt Drive around 5:27 a.m.
Charges were filed in district court, according to police.
DUI in Lower Providence
LOWER PROVIDENCE — State Police charged a woman with driving under the influence around midnight on March 15.
Elizabeth Jean Colucci, of Collegeville, was stopped at 12:32 a.m. while she was driving her 2004 Mazda 6 west on Route 422, police said.
Charges were filed in district court, police said.
Theft from a vehicle
SKIPPACK — State Police at Skippack are looking for one or more suspects who stole electronics from a car earlier this month.
According to police, some time between 4 p.m. on March 14 and 6 p.m. on March 15, two iPods and a USB cable were taken from a car in the 800 block of Karlyn Lane.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Theft of items for sale
LOWER FREDERICK — Police are investigating the theft of items a Schwenksville man was trying to sell.
When the 64-year-old victim gave a saddle and a blanket to a customer to try, it was never paid for and never returned, police said.
Police did not give a date for this incident but anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Burglary investigation
PERKIOMEN — Police are asking for assistance from the public after a house in the first block of Washington Street was burglarized on March 13.
According to police, unknown suspects made their way into the house through a locked garage door some time between 6:50 a.m. and 6:56 p.m.
The door knob was damaged by an unknown sharp tool, police said. The suspects stole three high school class rings: two from Norristown High School and one from Perkiomen High School class of 1982.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Hit and Run
SKIPPACK — Police are investigating a hit and run incident from December of 2013.
State police said on Dec. 20, some time between 8:05 p.m. and 10:45 p.m., an unknown car hit a 2013 dodge Ram 1500 parked on Cody Lane.
The truck received minor damage and was able to be driven, police said.
A witness to the crash left a note for the owner of the truck, police said.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Crash on Route 422
LIMERICK — State police responded to a crash on Route 422 after a Jeep struck a deer around 4:38 a.m. on March 16.
According to police. Patrick Turner, 45, of Philadelphia was driving his 2000 Jeep Cherokee west when a deer ran into the highway.
The front end of the SUV hit the deer, police said.
As a result of the impact, the car had to be towed, police said.
Turner was not injured, police said.
Driving under the influence in Limerick
LIMERICK — Police charged a man with driving under the influence after he was stopped on Route 422 around 10 p.m. on March 20.
Craig Weiner, 40, of Phoenixville, was on the eastbound off ramp of Route 422 when police stopped him for speeding, police said.
According to the responding officers, Weiner failed his field sobriety tests.
He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence.
POTTSTOWN — Pennsylvania State Police are investigating charges made with a stolen credit card.
According to police, the 29-year-old victim reported a Visa card stolen in January of this year and police are looking into charges at Wal-Mart and Sheetz totalling $1,322.
Anyone with information should call police at 484-340-3241.
Driving under the influence
CHARLESTOWN — A Phoenixville man was charged with driving under the influence after police stopped his car on March 8.
According to police, Kenneth Bouder, 39, was stopped on Route 29 north of Charlestown Hunt Drive around 5:27 a.m.
Charges were filed in district court, according to police.
DUI in Lower Providence
LOWER PROVIDENCE — State Police charged a woman with driving under the influence around midnight on March 15.
Elizabeth Jean Colucci, of Collegeville, was stopped at 12:32 a.m. while she was driving her 2004 Mazda 6 west on Route 422, police said.
Charges were filed in district court, police said.
Theft from a vehicle
SKIPPACK — State Police at Skippack are looking for one or more suspects who stole electronics from a car earlier this month.
According to police, some time between 4 p.m. on March 14 and 6 p.m. on March 15, two iPods and a USB cable were taken from a car in the 800 block of Karlyn Lane.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Theft of items for sale
LOWER FREDERICK — Police are investigating the theft of items a Schwenksville man was trying to sell.
When the 64-year-old victim gave a saddle and a blanket to a customer to try, it was never paid for and never returned, police said.
Police did not give a date for this incident but anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Burglary investigation
PERKIOMEN — Police are asking for assistance from the public after a house in the first block of Washington Street was burglarized on March 13.
According to police, unknown suspects made their way into the house through a locked garage door some time between 6:50 a.m. and 6:56 p.m.
The door knob was damaged by an unknown sharp tool, police said. The suspects stole three high school class rings: two from Norristown High School and one from Perkiomen High School class of 1982.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Hit and Run
SKIPPACK — Police are investigating a hit and run incident from December of 2013.
State police said on Dec. 20, some time between 8:05 p.m. and 10:45 p.m., an unknown car hit a 2013 dodge Ram 1500 parked on Cody Lane.
The truck received minor damage and was able to be driven, police said.
A witness to the crash left a note for the owner of the truck, police said.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-584-1250.
Crash on Route 422
LIMERICK — State police responded to a crash on Route 422 after a Jeep struck a deer around 4:38 a.m. on March 16.
According to police. Patrick Turner, 45, of Philadelphia was driving his 2000 Jeep Cherokee west when a deer ran into the highway.
The front end of the SUV hit the deer, police said.
As a result of the impact, the car had to be towed, police said.
Turner was not injured, police said.
Driving under the influence in Limerick
LIMERICK — Police charged a man with driving under the influence after he was stopped on Route 422 around 10 p.m. on March 20.
Craig Weiner, 40, of Phoenixville, was on the eastbound off ramp of Route 422 when police stopped him for speeding, police said.
According to the responding officers, Weiner failed his field sobriety tests.
He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Elderly woman victim of theft
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
LOWER PROVIDENCE - Police are asking for help identifying a suspect.
According to the Lower Providence Police Department's Facebook page, on Monday around 4:30 p.m. a 90-year-old woman had her purse stolen from her shopping cart while getting groceries at Genuardi's Food Store.
Police were able to get surveillance photos of the man they suspect took the woman's purse.
Anyone with information should call police at 610-539-5901.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Spring City Police search for burglary suspect, investigate arson
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
SPRING CITY — Police are investigating a burglary, an attempted burglary, and an arson that all happened in the same block on March 18.
According to Spring City Police Chief Anthony Kuklinski, police were called to the area of the 200 block of Bridge Street three times on March 18.
Around 1 a.m., emergency crews responded to a house on the block after a neighbor reported a fire in a detached kitchen, police said.
According to police, an unknown suspect set fire to combustible items in the kitchen.
Approximately 12 hours later, around 1:45 p.m., officers responded to a different house on the same block after a burglary in progress was reported.
The daughter of the homeowner was inside the house when she saw a man she did not know, police said.
Although the man has not been identified, the witness is working with local police and Chester County Detectives to compile a sketch of the suspect.
The suspect is a white man, approximately six feet tall with an athletic build and clean shaven face. He has heavy eyebrows with combed hair and is in his 20s.
Kuklinski said that when the sketch is done, it will be provided to the public.
Sometime between the fire and the burglary, officers arrived in the 200 block of Plum Alley near Bridge Street after one or more subjects were trying to cut locks off storage units, police said.
Although the crimes happened in the same area, Kuklinski said they could unrelated but he has not ruled out that possibility that they are related.
Police are working with the Chester County Fire Marshall and the Chester County Detectives to solve these crimes but anyone with information should call 610-948-3456.
EARLIER VERSION OF THE STORY
SPRING CITY — Police are investigating a residential burglary and an arson that happened in the same block on March 18.
According to police, an unknown suspect set fire to a detached kitchen near a house in the 200 block of Bridge Street.
A neighbor saw the fire and called in emergency services, police said.
Around 1:45 p.m., officers were called back to the area for a report of a burglary.
A woman saw the suspect in the process of burglarizing her family's home, police said.
Police said the suspect is described as a white man with heavy eyebrows, between 5 feet 11 inches and six feet one inch tall with an athletic build.
According to police, his hair was neatly combed, he was clean shaven, and in his 20s. Police Chief Anthony Kuklinski said a composite sketch is being drawn and will be distributed around the borough.
Anyone with information about either of the incidents should call police at 610-948-3456.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
 |
| Courtesy: Chester County Detectives |
SPRING CITY — Police are investigating a burglary, an attempted burglary, and an arson that all happened in the same block on March 18.
According to Spring City Police Chief Anthony Kuklinski, police were called to the area of the 200 block of Bridge Street three times on March 18.
Around 1 a.m., emergency crews responded to a house on the block after a neighbor reported a fire in a detached kitchen, police said.
According to police, an unknown suspect set fire to combustible items in the kitchen.
Approximately 12 hours later, around 1:45 p.m., officers responded to a different house on the same block after a burglary in progress was reported.
The daughter of the homeowner was inside the house when she saw a man she did not know, police said.
Although the man has not been identified, the witness is working with local police and Chester County Detectives to compile a sketch of the suspect.
The suspect is a white man, approximately six feet tall with an athletic build and clean shaven face. He has heavy eyebrows with combed hair and is in his 20s.
Kuklinski said that when the sketch is done, it will be provided to the public.
Sometime between the fire and the burglary, officers arrived in the 200 block of Plum Alley near Bridge Street after one or more subjects were trying to cut locks off storage units, police said.
Although the crimes happened in the same area, Kuklinski said they could unrelated but he has not ruled out that possibility that they are related.
Police are working with the Chester County Fire Marshall and the Chester County Detectives to solve these crimes but anyone with information should call 610-948-3456.
EARLIER VERSION OF THE STORY
SPRING CITY — Police are investigating a residential burglary and an arson that happened in the same block on March 18.
According to police, an unknown suspect set fire to a detached kitchen near a house in the 200 block of Bridge Street.
A neighbor saw the fire and called in emergency services, police said.
Around 1:45 p.m., officers were called back to the area for a report of a burglary.
A woman saw the suspect in the process of burglarizing her family's home, police said.
Police said the suspect is described as a white man with heavy eyebrows, between 5 feet 11 inches and six feet one inch tall with an athletic build.
According to police, his hair was neatly combed, he was clean shaven, and in his 20s. Police Chief Anthony Kuklinski said a composite sketch is being drawn and will be distributed around the borough.
Anyone with information about either of the incidents should call police at 610-948-3456.
Man charged with retail theft, assault in Pottstown
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A man was charged with retail theft and assault after he tried to steal motor oil from Wal-Mart.
According to police, Mario Ellis, 52, of Pottstown, was at the store on Shoemaker Road on March 13 around 5:15 p.m. when he was spotted attempting to steal two bottles of Mobil 1 Motor Oil, police said.
The loss prevention officer allegedly approached Ellis, introduced himself ,and told Ellis he needed the motor oil back, police said.
Instead of giving the oil back, Ellis allegedly tried to hit the officer in the face, police said.
Ellis ran from the store, got into a blue Mercedes and left.
When responding Pottstown Police found the car at the Motel 6, they also found Ellis and the stolen motor oil.
According to police, both bottles cost $16.41.
Court documents revealed Ellis was convicted three previous times for retail theft. Once in Berks County in 2013 and twice in Montgomery County; in 2012 and 2010.
Ellis was arraigned by District Judge Karen Zucker on March 13. He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $25,000.
He is expected in court again on March 27 at 11:15 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A man was charged with retail theft and assault after he tried to steal motor oil from Wal-Mart.
According to police, Mario Ellis, 52, of Pottstown, was at the store on Shoemaker Road on March 13 around 5:15 p.m. when he was spotted attempting to steal two bottles of Mobil 1 Motor Oil, police said.
The loss prevention officer allegedly approached Ellis, introduced himself ,and told Ellis he needed the motor oil back, police said.
Instead of giving the oil back, Ellis allegedly tried to hit the officer in the face, police said.
Ellis ran from the store, got into a blue Mercedes and left.
When responding Pottstown Police found the car at the Motel 6, they also found Ellis and the stolen motor oil.
According to police, both bottles cost $16.41.
Court documents revealed Ellis was convicted three previous times for retail theft. Once in Berks County in 2013 and twice in Montgomery County; in 2012 and 2010.
Ellis was arraigned by District Judge Karen Zucker on March 13. He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $25,000.
He is expected in court again on March 27 at 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Officers in East Vincent, West Pottsgrove assaulted
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
In the past month, two townships have had police officers assaulted while on duty, according to court reports.
On Feb. 28, an East Vincent officer was allegedly assaulted by a man who was trying to get close to downed power lines.
While sitting in a patrol car on Bonnie Brae Road around 7:30 p.m., the officer saw David Brennan, who turned 39 that day, walking toward him.
According to the officer, he approached Brennan and told him the road was closed to which Brennan replied, “You are not a police officer and have no right to close the road,” - despite the officer being in full uniform.
Brennan allegedly kept walking toward the power lines and kept shouting at the officer, “Let’s go. You can’t be back here.”
The officer was able to grab a hold of Brennan’s jacket in an attempt to stop him, but Brennan turned around, allegedly punched the officer in the right eye, before both men fell to the ground.
Brennan fell on top of the officer and allegedly proceeded to punch him several more times, police said. After a struggle, the officer was able to get up but Brennan allegedly hit him in the back of the head.
According to police, the officer was able to call for back up and while waiting had to deploy his stun gun.
At that point, the officer was able to arrest Brennan, police said.
Brennan was charged with simple assault, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, according to court documents.
He was arraigned on March 1 and is confined to the Chester County Prison in lieu of $50,000. He is expected in the Chester County Courthouse on March 27 at 9:30 a.m.
On March 15, a West Pottsgrove officer was allegedly assaulted while he serving an arrest warrant for Charles Dandridge Jr.
Around 5:10 p.m., the officer arrived at Dandridge’s apartment in the 300 block of Ash Street but he was not home, police said.
When the officer was leaving, he saw Dandridge walking on Grosstown Road, police said. Two other officers were notified that Dandridge was walking around and all three were looking for him, police said.
One officer made contact with Dandridge, who refused to cooperate with instructions. When the officer attempted to put handcuffs on Dandridge, he allegedly struck the officer in the face with his fist, police said.
Dandridge was allegedly running on Grosstown Road through oncoming traffic, police said. He was caught by police on W. Race Street near Grosstown Road.
Although the officer had his stun gun out, he did not use it, police said.
Dandridge was charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct, according to court documents.
He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $20,000 bail. He is expected in court again on March 28 at 9 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
In the past month, two townships have had police officers assaulted while on duty, according to court reports.
On Feb. 28, an East Vincent officer was allegedly assaulted by a man who was trying to get close to downed power lines.
While sitting in a patrol car on Bonnie Brae Road around 7:30 p.m., the officer saw David Brennan, who turned 39 that day, walking toward him.
According to the officer, he approached Brennan and told him the road was closed to which Brennan replied, “You are not a police officer and have no right to close the road,” - despite the officer being in full uniform.
Brennan allegedly kept walking toward the power lines and kept shouting at the officer, “Let’s go. You can’t be back here.”
The officer was able to grab a hold of Brennan’s jacket in an attempt to stop him, but Brennan turned around, allegedly punched the officer in the right eye, before both men fell to the ground.
Brennan fell on top of the officer and allegedly proceeded to punch him several more times, police said. After a struggle, the officer was able to get up but Brennan allegedly hit him in the back of the head.
According to police, the officer was able to call for back up and while waiting had to deploy his stun gun.
At that point, the officer was able to arrest Brennan, police said.
Brennan was charged with simple assault, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, according to court documents.
He was arraigned on March 1 and is confined to the Chester County Prison in lieu of $50,000. He is expected in the Chester County Courthouse on March 27 at 9:30 a.m.
On March 15, a West Pottsgrove officer was allegedly assaulted while he serving an arrest warrant for Charles Dandridge Jr.
Around 5:10 p.m., the officer arrived at Dandridge’s apartment in the 300 block of Ash Street but he was not home, police said.
When the officer was leaving, he saw Dandridge walking on Grosstown Road, police said. Two other officers were notified that Dandridge was walking around and all three were looking for him, police said.
One officer made contact with Dandridge, who refused to cooperate with instructions. When the officer attempted to put handcuffs on Dandridge, he allegedly struck the officer in the face with his fist, police said.
Dandridge was allegedly running on Grosstown Road through oncoming traffic, police said. He was caught by police on W. Race Street near Grosstown Road.
Although the officer had his stun gun out, he did not use it, police said.
Dandridge was charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct, according to court documents.
He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $20,000 bail. He is expected in court again on March 28 at 9 a.m.
New York man charged with possession in Pottstown
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A New York man, who was charged after police found he was in possession of more than 10 bags of heroin, will appear in county court in May.
Officers found Justin Broughton, 28, of Rosedale N.Y., sitting in a parked car in front of a house in the 1100 block of Sembling Avenue around 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 28.
When officers approached Broughton, they advised him they were investigating suspicious activity, police said. After getting consent from Broughton, an officer found that he was carrying 15 bags of heroin in his jacket pocket.
Broughton allegedly told officers that he, “is a user,”
According to police, Broughton was not in possession of any other paraphernalia commonly associated with heroin use but he did have rolling paper.
After officers found the rolling papers, Broughton allegedly admitted to smoking weed, police said. There was also a cell phone and $79 in his pocket.
Broughton was arraigned and given a $50,000 bail on Feb. 28. On Monday, his bail was amended to a unsecured $50,000 which allowed him to leave the Montgomery County Correctional Facility.
He is expected in court again on May 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Norristown.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A New York man, who was charged after police found he was in possession of more than 10 bags of heroin, will appear in county court in May.
Officers found Justin Broughton, 28, of Rosedale N.Y., sitting in a parked car in front of a house in the 1100 block of Sembling Avenue around 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 28.
When officers approached Broughton, they advised him they were investigating suspicious activity, police said. After getting consent from Broughton, an officer found that he was carrying 15 bags of heroin in his jacket pocket.
Broughton allegedly told officers that he, “is a user,”
According to police, Broughton was not in possession of any other paraphernalia commonly associated with heroin use but he did have rolling paper.
After officers found the rolling papers, Broughton allegedly admitted to smoking weed, police said. There was also a cell phone and $79 in his pocket.
Broughton was arraigned and given a $50,000 bail on Feb. 28. On Monday, his bail was amended to a unsecured $50,000 which allowed him to leave the Montgomery County Correctional Facility.
He is expected in court again on May 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Norristown.
DUI stop in Pottstown leads to arrest for vehicle theft
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A man was arrested after the van he was driving turned out to be stolen.
Around 2:28 a.m. on March 11, borough police officers saw a white 2000 Ford E-250 parked illegally in front of The Brickhouse at 152 East High Street.
According to police, Gerardo Figueroa, 52, of Pottsville, was in the driver’s seat and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.
When officers questioned Figueroa about the van, he was allegedly unable to give details about where it came from and who owned it, police said.
After running the registration, officers discovered the van was reported stolen from Reading.
Figueroa was charged with receiving stolen property and public drunkenness, according to court documents.
He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10,000 bail. He is scheduled to appear in court again on March 24 at 8:15 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A man was arrested after the van he was driving turned out to be stolen.
Around 2:28 a.m. on March 11, borough police officers saw a white 2000 Ford E-250 parked illegally in front of The Brickhouse at 152 East High Street.
According to police, Gerardo Figueroa, 52, of Pottsville, was in the driver’s seat and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.
When officers questioned Figueroa about the van, he was allegedly unable to give details about where it came from and who owned it, police said.
After running the registration, officers discovered the van was reported stolen from Reading.
Figueroa was charged with receiving stolen property and public drunkenness, according to court documents.
He is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10,000 bail. He is scheduled to appear in court again on March 24 at 8:15 a.m.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Two men charged after assault, robbery
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
PHOENXIVILLE — Two men were charged after police found a man bleeding from his head Tuesday night.
According to court documents, officers were dispatched to 184 E. Bridge Street near Mainstay Inn after a fight broke out around 9:15 p.m.
When officers arrived, they found a man lying in the parking lot of Mainstay Inn and bleeding from his head.
According to the victim and witness statements to officers, the man was robbed and beaten up, police said.
The victim told police that the men who robbed him took his backpack. A friend of the victim, who was with him at the time of the incident, chased two men from 200 Bridge Street to just west of Bank Street.
Investigators arrived at a house in the 300 block of Church Street to speak with Isaiah Heverly, 18, and Benjamin Ford, 19.
Police said the two men matched the description given by the witness and the victim.
According to police, the two men were located in a bedroom, pretending to be asleep.
The victim’s backpack was found out in the open in the room with the victim’s state ID in a pocket, police said.
Both men were arrested and allegedly gave confession at the borough police station. According to the confession by Heverly, the two men originally planned to steal marijuana from the victim and neither intended to pay for the drugs.
District Judge James V. DeAngelo arraigned both me on Wednesday. Both men are in Chester County Prison in lieu of bail - Heverly was given a $25,000 bail while Ford has a $100,000 bail.
Both men are expected in front of District Judge Theodore P. Michaels on March 19 at 10 a.m.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Police briefs for the tri-county area: March 14, 2014
Douglassville man hits car in front of him at red light
CHARLESTOWN — Police charged a Douglassville man for following too closely after the driver hit a car stopped at a light on Feb. 12, police said.
Richard Benedict, 58, of Bordentown, was traveling south in a 2014 Isuzu NQR on North Morehall Road and then stopped at a red signal light on the intersection of Morehall Road and Whitehorse Road, police said.
Keith Williams, 32, of Douglassville in a 1990 Ford F-150 was traveling behind Benedict when he hit the rear passenger side of Benedict’s car with the Ford’s front passenger side bumper and fender, police said. Both drivers were wearing safety belts and no injuries were reported, police said.
Two people injured after car crashes into bridge
SOUTH COVENTRY — Two people were injured after a car crashed into a bridge when the driver attempted a right hand curve on Route 100 after midnight on Feb. 13, police said.
Tommy Tran, 44, of Douglassville, was driving in a 2003 Toyota Camry in the southbound lane of Route 100 when he attempted to turn for a right hand curve, police said. Tran traveled across the southbound lane exiting the roadway and crashing into the bridge, police said. The Camry then traveled 20 more yards north before coming to a final rest, police said.
Police said Route 100 was covered in snow and snow was falling during the crash. Tran and passenger Juliet Nguyen, 43, of Douglassville were transported to the Pottstown Hospital by Glenmoore EMS. The other two passengers; Johnny Tran, 18, and a 13-year-old minor were reported as not injured. All occupants of the car were wearing seat belts. Tran was charged for driving outside the traffic lane.
Pennsburg Borough man found under the influence at traffic stop
UPPER HANOOVER — A Pennsburg Borough man was allegedly found under the influence of a controlled substance while at a traffic stop on Feb. 13, police said.
An officer determined Antony Joseph Spano III was under the influence while stopped at the intersection of Montgomery Avenue and Oak Road around 1 a.m., police said. Spano was taken into custody and charges will be filed in district court, police said.
Snowballs lead to man being hit by a car
PERKIOMEN — A man was injured after being struck by a car after allegedly throwing snowballs at the driver on Feb. 14, police said.
The 36-year-old victim allegedly threw multiple snowballs at the 25-year-old accused, causing the accused to retaliate by hitting the victim with his car, police said. The investigation continues, police said.
Thief attempts to steal a tractor battery in Honey Brook
HONEY BROOK — State Police are investing a theft at the 700 block of Park Road where a thief attempted to steal a tractor battery on Feb. 20, police said.
Police said the thief took several hand tools from the property of Deborah Lyn Dovin, 54, of Honey Brook. The individual then allegedly used the tools to cut the battery wire on a tractor and attempted to take the battery but it was left behind, police said. Anyone with information should contact the Pennsylvania State Police Embreeville at 610-486-6280.
Police investigate damaged mailbox in Earl Township
EARL — State Police investigated a criminal mischief at 351 Longview Rd. on Feb. 22 and Feb. 23 after someone damaged the victim’s mailbox, police said.
TV stolen from Upper Frederick home
UPPER FREDERICK — Police are investigating a burglary at 1600 Haywood Road after an Emerson 40-inch TV was stolen from the residence, police said.
Police said someone broke into the victim’s home through the rear door and then fled in an unknown direction after the burglary. According to police, the burglary happened between Feb. 22 and Feb. 28. Anyone with information should contact Skippack police station at 610-584-1250.
A car overturns on roof while traveling on Compass Road
HONEY BROOK — A car overturned on its roof after a 16-year-old driver was driving too fast on the morning of Feb. 28, police said.
The State Police are investigating the incident after April Reiter of Honey Brook drove a 1999 Audi A4 off the left-hand side of the roadway while traveling north on Compass Road, police said. The Audi hit a soil embankment then overturned on the roof facing southeast, police said. Reiter was charged for driving too fast for conditions, police said. Reiter and her passenger, Brock Reiter, 13, were both wearing seatbelts during the accident and no injuries were reported at the scene, police said.
Police respond to assault in Warwick
WARWICK — The Pennsylvania State Police responded to an assault on 2036 School Rd. after a physical altercation occurred at 1 a.m. on Feb. 28, police said.
The altercation began from a verbal argument between a 46-year-old Pottstown man and a 54-year-old Pottstown woman, police said. Police said charges were filed at district court.
CHARLESTOWN — Police charged a Douglassville man for following too closely after the driver hit a car stopped at a light on Feb. 12, police said.
Richard Benedict, 58, of Bordentown, was traveling south in a 2014 Isuzu NQR on North Morehall Road and then stopped at a red signal light on the intersection of Morehall Road and Whitehorse Road, police said.
Keith Williams, 32, of Douglassville in a 1990 Ford F-150 was traveling behind Benedict when he hit the rear passenger side of Benedict’s car with the Ford’s front passenger side bumper and fender, police said. Both drivers were wearing safety belts and no injuries were reported, police said.
Two people injured after car crashes into bridge
SOUTH COVENTRY — Two people were injured after a car crashed into a bridge when the driver attempted a right hand curve on Route 100 after midnight on Feb. 13, police said.
Tommy Tran, 44, of Douglassville, was driving in a 2003 Toyota Camry in the southbound lane of Route 100 when he attempted to turn for a right hand curve, police said. Tran traveled across the southbound lane exiting the roadway and crashing into the bridge, police said. The Camry then traveled 20 more yards north before coming to a final rest, police said.
Police said Route 100 was covered in snow and snow was falling during the crash. Tran and passenger Juliet Nguyen, 43, of Douglassville were transported to the Pottstown Hospital by Glenmoore EMS. The other two passengers; Johnny Tran, 18, and a 13-year-old minor were reported as not injured. All occupants of the car were wearing seat belts. Tran was charged for driving outside the traffic lane.
Pennsburg Borough man found under the influence at traffic stop
UPPER HANOOVER — A Pennsburg Borough man was allegedly found under the influence of a controlled substance while at a traffic stop on Feb. 13, police said.
An officer determined Antony Joseph Spano III was under the influence while stopped at the intersection of Montgomery Avenue and Oak Road around 1 a.m., police said. Spano was taken into custody and charges will be filed in district court, police said.
Snowballs lead to man being hit by a car
PERKIOMEN — A man was injured after being struck by a car after allegedly throwing snowballs at the driver on Feb. 14, police said.
The 36-year-old victim allegedly threw multiple snowballs at the 25-year-old accused, causing the accused to retaliate by hitting the victim with his car, police said. The investigation continues, police said.
Thief attempts to steal a tractor battery in Honey Brook
HONEY BROOK — State Police are investing a theft at the 700 block of Park Road where a thief attempted to steal a tractor battery on Feb. 20, police said.
Police said the thief took several hand tools from the property of Deborah Lyn Dovin, 54, of Honey Brook. The individual then allegedly used the tools to cut the battery wire on a tractor and attempted to take the battery but it was left behind, police said. Anyone with information should contact the Pennsylvania State Police Embreeville at 610-486-6280.
Police investigate damaged mailbox in Earl Township
EARL — State Police investigated a criminal mischief at 351 Longview Rd. on Feb. 22 and Feb. 23 after someone damaged the victim’s mailbox, police said.
TV stolen from Upper Frederick home
UPPER FREDERICK — Police are investigating a burglary at 1600 Haywood Road after an Emerson 40-inch TV was stolen from the residence, police said.
Police said someone broke into the victim’s home through the rear door and then fled in an unknown direction after the burglary. According to police, the burglary happened between Feb. 22 and Feb. 28. Anyone with information should contact Skippack police station at 610-584-1250.
A car overturns on roof while traveling on Compass Road
HONEY BROOK — A car overturned on its roof after a 16-year-old driver was driving too fast on the morning of Feb. 28, police said.
The State Police are investigating the incident after April Reiter of Honey Brook drove a 1999 Audi A4 off the left-hand side of the roadway while traveling north on Compass Road, police said. The Audi hit a soil embankment then overturned on the roof facing southeast, police said. Reiter was charged for driving too fast for conditions, police said. Reiter and her passenger, Brock Reiter, 13, were both wearing seatbelts during the accident and no injuries were reported at the scene, police said.
Police respond to assault in Warwick
WARWICK — The Pennsylvania State Police responded to an assault on 2036 School Rd. after a physical altercation occurred at 1 a.m. on Feb. 28, police said.
The altercation began from a verbal argument between a 46-year-old Pottstown man and a 54-year-old Pottstown woman, police said. Police said charges were filed at district court.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Pottstown man charged after allegedly pushing police officer
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A borough man was charged with aggravated assault after he allegedly pushed a police officer who responded to a domestic dispute.
Melvin H. Randle, 65, allegedly threatened a woman inside his house in the 600 block of N. Charlotte Street on March 5 around 7:14 p.m., police said.
According to court documents, Randle was seen by responding officers in the kitchen of the house but did not answer the front door when officers tried to make contact with him.
When responding officers went to the back door, Randle answered and told them, “everything was fine,” despite officers hearing him allegedly threaten to shoot the victim in the face.
According to police, Randle was intoxicated and became angry when the officers on scene asked if he had any weapons. Randle became more agitated when officers followed him into the house, police said.
Randle allegedly pushed one of the officers and told them to get out of his house before threatening to shoot them, police said.
Along with his aggravated assault charge, Randle faces several misdemeanor charges including terroristic threats, simple assault, and resisting arrest.
District Judge Scott T. Palladino issued Randle a $10,000 unsecured bail and he is expected in court again on March 20 at 10:15 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A borough man was charged with aggravated assault after he allegedly pushed a police officer who responded to a domestic dispute.
Melvin H. Randle, 65, allegedly threatened a woman inside his house in the 600 block of N. Charlotte Street on March 5 around 7:14 p.m., police said.
According to court documents, Randle was seen by responding officers in the kitchen of the house but did not answer the front door when officers tried to make contact with him.
When responding officers went to the back door, Randle answered and told them, “everything was fine,” despite officers hearing him allegedly threaten to shoot the victim in the face.
According to police, Randle was intoxicated and became angry when the officers on scene asked if he had any weapons. Randle became more agitated when officers followed him into the house, police said.
Randle allegedly pushed one of the officers and told them to get out of his house before threatening to shoot them, police said.
Along with his aggravated assault charge, Randle faces several misdemeanor charges including terroristic threats, simple assault, and resisting arrest.
District Judge Scott T. Palladino issued Randle a $10,000 unsecured bail and he is expected in court again on March 20 at 10:15 a.m.
East Pikeland man charged for shooting gun toward park
By Frank Otto
fotto@pottsmerc.com
EAST PIKELAND — Township police arrested a 45-year-old man for reckless endangerment after he allegedly shot multiple times at a piece of wood outside his home Saturday evening.
Philip Yost, 45, was taken into custody after East Pikeland Police on patrol near Kimberton Park heard “about five gun shots coming from the Coldstream Road area of the township,” according to a press release.
East Pikeland Police Chief James Franciscus said Yost was allegedly using a .22-caliber gun to shoot.
“After backup arrived, the East Pikeland Police checked the area (of) the 300 block of Coldstream Road,” the release said. “They came across the defendant, Philip Yost, who told officers he had been shooting in his back yard toward the park. Yost had been drinking and had fired about 20 rounds at a piece of wood in his back yard.”
Yost was charged with reckless endangerment but there was no mention of charges related to drinking.
Franciscus said there is a township ordinance prohibiting the firing of projectiles which Yost allegedly violated.
fotto@pottsmerc.com
EAST PIKELAND — Township police arrested a 45-year-old man for reckless endangerment after he allegedly shot multiple times at a piece of wood outside his home Saturday evening.
Philip Yost, 45, was taken into custody after East Pikeland Police on patrol near Kimberton Park heard “about five gun shots coming from the Coldstream Road area of the township,” according to a press release.
East Pikeland Police Chief James Franciscus said Yost was allegedly using a .22-caliber gun to shoot.
“After backup arrived, the East Pikeland Police checked the area (of) the 300 block of Coldstream Road,” the release said. “They came across the defendant, Philip Yost, who told officers he had been shooting in his back yard toward the park. Yost had been drinking and had fired about 20 rounds at a piece of wood in his back yard.”
Yost was charged with reckless endangerment but there was no mention of charges related to drinking.
Franciscus said there is a township ordinance prohibiting the firing of projectiles which Yost allegedly violated.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Police briefs for the tri-county area: March 7, 2014
Phoenixville man charged with criminal mischief
PHOENIXVILLE — When police arrived at the Phoenixville Hospital on Jan. 24, they found a mess.
Around 1:58 p.m., the entrance of the emergency room was flooded with about two inches of water after an “unruly patient” ripped a sprinkler head off the wall.
Not only was the sprinkler head gone in the temporary room but the door frame was broken as well, police said.
After an investigation, police discovered the only person in the room at the time was Johnie Mack Brown Jr., 33, of Phoenixville.
Police determined the damage would cost $7,086.23 to repair.
Brown was charged with criminal mischief and risking catastrophe, according to court documents.
He was given a $25,000 unsecured bail by District Judge Theodore P. Michaels on Jan. 27.
His is expected in court again on March 19 at 9 a.m.
Pottstown man in stolen car asked for police escort
EAST PIKELAND — A Pottstown man was driving a stolen car when he flagged down police on March 6.
According to police, Donald Wright, 26, was standing by a grey Volkswagen Jetta on West Schuylkill Road when he flagged down a patrol officer and said his girlfriend was in labor.
The patrol officer activated his emergency lights and escorted Wright to the hospital, police said.
At the hospital, the officer ran the registration plates on the Jetta and discovered the car was stolen from Payless Rental in Philadelphia.
Wright was charged with receiving stolen property and driving with a suspended license.
District Judge Theodore P. Michaels gave Wright an unsecured bail of $75,000, which he posted on March 6, according to court documents.
Wright is scheduled to appear in court again on March 13 at 9 a.m.
Man charged with criminal trespassing
PHOENIXVILLE — An Elverson man was charged with criminal trespassing after police were called to the same apartment complex twice in less than a month.
On Feb. 24, police responded to an apartment building in the first block of South Main Street after the landlord called them to say a man was sleeping in a vacant apartment.
Officers found Benjamin Pavoni, 28, was sleeping in the third apartment, police said.
According to police, officers responded to the same apartment on March 4 after two witnesses saw a man climb through a window.
When officers met with Pavoni, he allegedly admitted to climbing through the window to gain access to the apartment.
He was arraigned by District Judge Jeffrey J. Valocchi on March 4. Pavoni is confined to the Chester County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail.
His next court appearance is scheduled for March 12 at 10 a.m.
PHOENIXVILLE — When police arrived at the Phoenixville Hospital on Jan. 24, they found a mess.
Around 1:58 p.m., the entrance of the emergency room was flooded with about two inches of water after an “unruly patient” ripped a sprinkler head off the wall.
Not only was the sprinkler head gone in the temporary room but the door frame was broken as well, police said.
After an investigation, police discovered the only person in the room at the time was Johnie Mack Brown Jr., 33, of Phoenixville.
Police determined the damage would cost $7,086.23 to repair.
Brown was charged with criminal mischief and risking catastrophe, according to court documents.
He was given a $25,000 unsecured bail by District Judge Theodore P. Michaels on Jan. 27.
His is expected in court again on March 19 at 9 a.m.
Pottstown man in stolen car asked for police escort
EAST PIKELAND — A Pottstown man was driving a stolen car when he flagged down police on March 6.
According to police, Donald Wright, 26, was standing by a grey Volkswagen Jetta on West Schuylkill Road when he flagged down a patrol officer and said his girlfriend was in labor.
The patrol officer activated his emergency lights and escorted Wright to the hospital, police said.
At the hospital, the officer ran the registration plates on the Jetta and discovered the car was stolen from Payless Rental in Philadelphia.
Wright was charged with receiving stolen property and driving with a suspended license.
District Judge Theodore P. Michaels gave Wright an unsecured bail of $75,000, which he posted on March 6, according to court documents.
Wright is scheduled to appear in court again on March 13 at 9 a.m.
Man charged with criminal trespassing
PHOENIXVILLE — An Elverson man was charged with criminal trespassing after police were called to the same apartment complex twice in less than a month.
On Feb. 24, police responded to an apartment building in the first block of South Main Street after the landlord called them to say a man was sleeping in a vacant apartment.
Officers found Benjamin Pavoni, 28, was sleeping in the third apartment, police said.
According to police, officers responded to the same apartment on March 4 after two witnesses saw a man climb through a window.
When officers met with Pavoni, he allegedly admitted to climbing through the window to gain access to the apartment.
He was arraigned by District Judge Jeffrey J. Valocchi on March 4. Pavoni is confined to the Chester County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail.
His next court appearance is scheduled for March 12 at 10 a.m.
Phoenixville man charged in day-long crime spree
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
PHOENXIVILLE — Police arrested one man connected to various crimes in the borough, three of which happened in one day.
Ryan Francis McCaul, 35, of Phoenixville faces 13 felony counts of burglary, criminal trespassing, receiving stolen property and other related offenses, according to court documents.
On Feb. 14, McCaul allegedly broke into Penn Psychiatric, Valor Men’s Grooming, and another unnamed business before noon, police said.
McCaul is also charged for the January burglary of The Wooden Spoon, police said.
According to police, McCaul gained access to the businesses different ways for each alleged crime.
Then burglary of The Wooden Spoon, which occurred in the overnight hours between Jan. 25 and Jan. 26, McCaul allegedly used a key to gain access to the restaurant and take approximately $300 from the cash register as well as a lock box.
Owners of the restaurant called police around 6:30 a.m. on Jan. 26 when they noticed the back door was unlocked.
Police said nothing was taken from Penn Psychiatric around 8:41 a.m. on Feb. 14, but McCaul allegedly vandalized the reception area by climbing through the glass partition.
Around 9:54 a.m. that day, the owner of Valor Men’s Grooming noticed the glass on the front door was broken. According to police, the business was closed on Feb. 13. Police said a small safe with $125 in it was stolen from the store.
Less than an hour later, the owner of a business called police to say the glass front door of her business was smashed but nothing appeared missing.
On Feb. 15 around 1:45 p.m. East Pikeland police executed an arrest warrant for McCaul’s apartment. McCaul was taken into custody where he allegedly waived his rights and consented to an interview, police said.
During the interview, McCaul told police he took the keys from the mailbox outside The Wooden Spoon and used them to enter the restaurant.
He also allegedly admitted to breaking into Penn Psychiatric and Valor Men’s Grooming, police said. McCaul told police he used a hammer to break the glass for the Feb. 14 break-ins.
On March 4, McCaul was arraigned by District Judge Theodore P. Michaels. His bail was set at $15,000, according to court documents. In lieu of his bail, McCaul is confined to the Chester County Prison.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 12 at 10 a.m.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
PHOENXIVILLE — Police arrested one man connected to various crimes in the borough, three of which happened in one day.
Ryan Francis McCaul, 35, of Phoenixville faces 13 felony counts of burglary, criminal trespassing, receiving stolen property and other related offenses, according to court documents.
On Feb. 14, McCaul allegedly broke into Penn Psychiatric, Valor Men’s Grooming, and another unnamed business before noon, police said.
McCaul is also charged for the January burglary of The Wooden Spoon, police said.
According to police, McCaul gained access to the businesses different ways for each alleged crime.
Then burglary of The Wooden Spoon, which occurred in the overnight hours between Jan. 25 and Jan. 26, McCaul allegedly used a key to gain access to the restaurant and take approximately $300 from the cash register as well as a lock box.
Owners of the restaurant called police around 6:30 a.m. on Jan. 26 when they noticed the back door was unlocked.
Police said nothing was taken from Penn Psychiatric around 8:41 a.m. on Feb. 14, but McCaul allegedly vandalized the reception area by climbing through the glass partition.
Around 9:54 a.m. that day, the owner of Valor Men’s Grooming noticed the glass on the front door was broken. According to police, the business was closed on Feb. 13. Police said a small safe with $125 in it was stolen from the store.
Less than an hour later, the owner of a business called police to say the glass front door of her business was smashed but nothing appeared missing.
On Feb. 15 around 1:45 p.m. East Pikeland police executed an arrest warrant for McCaul’s apartment. McCaul was taken into custody where he allegedly waived his rights and consented to an interview, police said.
During the interview, McCaul told police he took the keys from the mailbox outside The Wooden Spoon and used them to enter the restaurant.
He also allegedly admitted to breaking into Penn Psychiatric and Valor Men’s Grooming, police said. McCaul told police he used a hammer to break the glass for the Feb. 14 break-ins.
On March 4, McCaul was arraigned by District Judge Theodore P. Michaels. His bail was set at $15,000, according to court documents. In lieu of his bail, McCaul is confined to the Chester County Prison.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 12 at 10 a.m.
Exeter Police arrest man linked to multiple bank robberies
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
EXETER — The man who allegedly robbed three banks in the township and surrounding areas is in custody after police received an anonymous tip.
Anthony Lena, 28, of Reading, was charged with multiple felonies including robbery and theft as well as one count of making terroristic threats after the allegedly admitted to robbing the Visions Federal Credit Union on Feb. 19.
According to police, Lena approached a teller at the credit union around 5:17 p.m., handed the teller a note that said, “I have a gun. I want all the money in the drawer. Stay calm and no one gets hurt.”
After the teller handed Lena $4,500, he left in a black sedan.
For almost a month, officers were searching for Lena. An anonymous tip to Berks County Crime Alert led investigators to a house in the 2600 block of Perkiomen Avenue in Reading on March 5.
The tipster gave police a description of Lena and his car, which matched surveillance footage of the banks and descriptions given by bank tellers.
On March 6, investigators conducted surveillance of Lena but had to stop because he was driving too fast, police said.
A short time after the surveillance ended, police said, officers were called to the Visions Federal Credit Union at 600 E. Lancaster Avenue in Cumru after they were robbed.
The officers conducting the surveillance on Lena returned to his home and waited for him to return, police said.
According to police, when Lena was close to his house, officers stopped his car and took him into custody.
While in police custody, Lena waived his rights and elected to speak with police.
In his confession, he allegedly admitted to robbing three banks including an attempted robbery at the National Penn Bank at 4300 Oley Turnpike Road in Exeter on Feb. 11, police said.
On Feb. 10, The First Niagara Bank at 422 Maplewood Road in Amity was also robbed.
Amity Police Chief Kent Shuebrook said Lena hasn’t been charged in the robbery but he has not been ruled out as a suspect.
Lena was arraigned by District Judge William N. Hall Jr. and is confined to Berks County Prison in lieu of his $70,000 bail. According to the office of District Judge Phyllis J. Kowalski, a date for Lena’s preliminary hearing has not been set.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
EXETER — The man who allegedly robbed three banks in the township and surrounding areas is in custody after police received an anonymous tip.
Anthony Lena, 28, of Reading, was charged with multiple felonies including robbery and theft as well as one count of making terroristic threats after the allegedly admitted to robbing the Visions Federal Credit Union on Feb. 19.
According to police, Lena approached a teller at the credit union around 5:17 p.m., handed the teller a note that said, “I have a gun. I want all the money in the drawer. Stay calm and no one gets hurt.”
After the teller handed Lena $4,500, he left in a black sedan.
For almost a month, officers were searching for Lena. An anonymous tip to Berks County Crime Alert led investigators to a house in the 2600 block of Perkiomen Avenue in Reading on March 5.
The tipster gave police a description of Lena and his car, which matched surveillance footage of the banks and descriptions given by bank tellers.
On March 6, investigators conducted surveillance of Lena but had to stop because he was driving too fast, police said.
A short time after the surveillance ended, police said, officers were called to the Visions Federal Credit Union at 600 E. Lancaster Avenue in Cumru after they were robbed.
The officers conducting the surveillance on Lena returned to his home and waited for him to return, police said.
According to police, when Lena was close to his house, officers stopped his car and took him into custody.
While in police custody, Lena waived his rights and elected to speak with police.
In his confession, he allegedly admitted to robbing three banks including an attempted robbery at the National Penn Bank at 4300 Oley Turnpike Road in Exeter on Feb. 11, police said.
On Feb. 10, The First Niagara Bank at 422 Maplewood Road in Amity was also robbed.
Amity Police Chief Kent Shuebrook said Lena hasn’t been charged in the robbery but he has not been ruled out as a suspect.
Lena was arraigned by District Judge William N. Hall Jr. and is confined to Berks County Prison in lieu of his $70,000 bail. According to the office of District Judge Phyllis J. Kowalski, a date for Lena’s preliminary hearing has not been set.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Police search for burglary suspects
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
UNION TWP. - State police are asking for assistance from the public to help find two men who allegedly burglarized a township bar.
According to police, two men wearing hooded sweatshirts entered Tim's Ugly Mug bar at 1281 E. Main St. on Feb. 14 around 1:30 a.m.
The two men gained access to the bar through a broken front door, police said. During the alleged burglary, police said the men stole several bottles of alcohol before fleeing on foot down the Schuylkill River Trail.
Although police have not been able to identify the two men, they said the suspects were picked up in the area of 1160 E. Main Street. Police did not give a description of the vehicle.
Anyone with information about the suspects or the crime should call Pennsylvania State Police Reading at 610-378-4011 and reference incident number L01-1308651.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
UNION TWP. - State police are asking for assistance from the public to help find two men who allegedly burglarized a township bar.
According to police, two men wearing hooded sweatshirts entered Tim's Ugly Mug bar at 1281 E. Main St. on Feb. 14 around 1:30 a.m.
The two men gained access to the bar through a broken front door, police said. During the alleged burglary, police said the men stole several bottles of alcohol before fleeing on foot down the Schuylkill River Trail.
Although police have not been able to identify the two men, they said the suspects were picked up in the area of 1160 E. Main Street. Police did not give a description of the vehicle.
Anyone with information about the suspects or the crime should call Pennsylvania State Police Reading at 610-378-4011 and reference incident number L01-1308651.
Police briefs for the tri-county area: March 6, 2014
Philadelphia man faces drug charges
POTTSTOWN — A Philadelphia man faces multiple drug charges after borough police arrested him on Feb. 18.
David Harvey, 41, was allegedly walking on Franklin Street near the King Street Commons apartments when a patrol officer noticed him go in and out of the building in less than a minute.
According to police, the area around the apartment building has a history of drug activity.
Harvey allegedly gave the officer a fake name after he was stopped and told them he was going to the apartments because he and his girlfriend were arguing, police said.
After the officer searched Harvey, they found a large wallet in his back pocket with a state identification card, police said. When a records check turned up warrants for Harvey in York and Montgomery counties, police arrested him.
Even though the officer checked Harvey for weapons and drugs, the affidavit of probably cause said on the way to the police station, Harvey allegedly pulled out a gray plastic bag filled with drugs and dropped it in the back seat of the patrol car.
After a field test of the bag’s contents, officers discovered Harvey was allegedly carrying seven small bags of crack cocaine, 33 bags of heroin. According to police, Harvey was also carrying $100 in his wallet and $4 in his pocket.
Harvey is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000 bail, according to court documents. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 23 at 9:30 in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas in Norristown.
Linfield man charged with DUI
LIMERICK — Pennsylvania State police charged a man with driving under the influence after he was stopped on Route 422 on Feb. 21, around 12:41 a.m.
According to police, Frantz Delphin, 46, of Linfield, was stopped on the off ramp at the eastbound Royersford-Trappe exit.
After an investigation, police said, Delphin was charged with driving under the influence, disorderly conduct, careless driving and resisting arrest.
Delphin is scheduled to appear in District Judge Walter F. Gadzicki Jr.’s courtroom on March 31 at 1:30 p.m.
Man charged after crash
SOUTH COVENTRY — A Pottstown man was charged with driving too fast for road conditions after the Ford Escort he was driving drove over some ice, slid off the road then struck a utility pole, police said.
Tyler Smith, 24, was traveling south at the intersection of Porters Mill Road and Schoolhouse Road when he lost control of his car after hitting ice around 8 p.m.
Smith was wearing his seat belt and was not injured in the Feb. 14 crash according to police.
Man charged after hit and run
NORTH COVENTRY — Pennsylvania State Police charged a Pottstown with driving too fast after his Dodge Duragno hit another Dodge Durango on Feb. 15 at 3:38 p.m.
According to police, Thomas Denner, 45, was not injured after the hit and run on Harmonyville Road. Police said Denner’s SUV slid into the opposite lane, struck another SUV and then he drove away.
Woman taken to hospital after crash
WARWICK — A Boyertown woman suffered minor injuries after a crash on Feb. 19 around 10:30 a.m., police said.
Christine Holloway, 29, was wearing her seat belt when her 2013 Ford Edge slid across Ridge Road and stuck a guard rail, police said.
According to police, the SUV hit the guard rail, then traveled back across the road and hit a second guard rail. Holloway’s SUV, stopped on the south shoulder of the eastbound lane of the road.
Holloway was transported via ambulance to Reading Hospital where her injuries were treated, police said.
She was cited for failing to drive at a safe speed, police said.
Man charged after damaging car with baseball bat
HONEY BROOK — A township man was charged with making terroristic threats after he allegedly damaged a car and a house with a baseball bat.
On Fed. 12 around 10:38 p.m., Warren Barrage, 54, was trying to get into the house in the first block of Erica Circle, police said.
When he was unsuccessful, Barrage allegedly used the bat a recourse, police said.
Barrage is expected in front of District Judge Michael J. Cabry III on March 7, court documents said.
Police search for theft suspects
WARWICK — State police are looking for one or most suspects who allegedly stole miscellaneous kitchen supplies and appliances from an unlocked house.
According to police, the items were stolen sometime between Dec. 1, 2013 and Jan. 25, 2014.
Anyone with information should call state police at 610-486-6280.
Collegeville man charged with terroristic threats
SOUTH COVENTRY — Police charged a man with terroristic threats after a Pottstown woman received several threatening text messages.
Ronald Detwiler, 38, of Collegeville, allegedly sent the text messages to the victim on Jan. 21 around 1:40 a.m., police said. Detwiler was arraigned by District Judge James V. DeAngelo and given $5,000 bail, according to court documents.
POTTSTOWN — A Philadelphia man faces multiple drug charges after borough police arrested him on Feb. 18.
David Harvey, 41, was allegedly walking on Franklin Street near the King Street Commons apartments when a patrol officer noticed him go in and out of the building in less than a minute.
According to police, the area around the apartment building has a history of drug activity.
Harvey allegedly gave the officer a fake name after he was stopped and told them he was going to the apartments because he and his girlfriend were arguing, police said.
After the officer searched Harvey, they found a large wallet in his back pocket with a state identification card, police said. When a records check turned up warrants for Harvey in York and Montgomery counties, police arrested him.
Even though the officer checked Harvey for weapons and drugs, the affidavit of probably cause said on the way to the police station, Harvey allegedly pulled out a gray plastic bag filled with drugs and dropped it in the back seat of the patrol car.
After a field test of the bag’s contents, officers discovered Harvey was allegedly carrying seven small bags of crack cocaine, 33 bags of heroin. According to police, Harvey was also carrying $100 in his wallet and $4 in his pocket.
Harvey is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000 bail, according to court documents. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 23 at 9:30 in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas in Norristown.
Linfield man charged with DUI
LIMERICK — Pennsylvania State police charged a man with driving under the influence after he was stopped on Route 422 on Feb. 21, around 12:41 a.m.
According to police, Frantz Delphin, 46, of Linfield, was stopped on the off ramp at the eastbound Royersford-Trappe exit.
After an investigation, police said, Delphin was charged with driving under the influence, disorderly conduct, careless driving and resisting arrest.
Delphin is scheduled to appear in District Judge Walter F. Gadzicki Jr.’s courtroom on March 31 at 1:30 p.m.
Man charged after crash
SOUTH COVENTRY — A Pottstown man was charged with driving too fast for road conditions after the Ford Escort he was driving drove over some ice, slid off the road then struck a utility pole, police said.
Tyler Smith, 24, was traveling south at the intersection of Porters Mill Road and Schoolhouse Road when he lost control of his car after hitting ice around 8 p.m.
Smith was wearing his seat belt and was not injured in the Feb. 14 crash according to police.
Man charged after hit and run
NORTH COVENTRY — Pennsylvania State Police charged a Pottstown with driving too fast after his Dodge Duragno hit another Dodge Durango on Feb. 15 at 3:38 p.m.
According to police, Thomas Denner, 45, was not injured after the hit and run on Harmonyville Road. Police said Denner’s SUV slid into the opposite lane, struck another SUV and then he drove away.
Woman taken to hospital after crash
WARWICK — A Boyertown woman suffered minor injuries after a crash on Feb. 19 around 10:30 a.m., police said.
Christine Holloway, 29, was wearing her seat belt when her 2013 Ford Edge slid across Ridge Road and stuck a guard rail, police said.
According to police, the SUV hit the guard rail, then traveled back across the road and hit a second guard rail. Holloway’s SUV, stopped on the south shoulder of the eastbound lane of the road.
Holloway was transported via ambulance to Reading Hospital where her injuries were treated, police said.
She was cited for failing to drive at a safe speed, police said.
Man charged after damaging car with baseball bat
HONEY BROOK — A township man was charged with making terroristic threats after he allegedly damaged a car and a house with a baseball bat.
On Fed. 12 around 10:38 p.m., Warren Barrage, 54, was trying to get into the house in the first block of Erica Circle, police said.
When he was unsuccessful, Barrage allegedly used the bat a recourse, police said.
Barrage is expected in front of District Judge Michael J. Cabry III on March 7, court documents said.
Police search for theft suspects
WARWICK — State police are looking for one or most suspects who allegedly stole miscellaneous kitchen supplies and appliances from an unlocked house.
According to police, the items were stolen sometime between Dec. 1, 2013 and Jan. 25, 2014.
Anyone with information should call state police at 610-486-6280.
Collegeville man charged with terroristic threats
SOUTH COVENTRY — Police charged a man with terroristic threats after a Pottstown woman received several threatening text messages.
Ronald Detwiler, 38, of Collegeville, allegedly sent the text messages to the victim on Jan. 21 around 1:40 a.m., police said. Detwiler was arraigned by District Judge James V. DeAngelo and given $5,000 bail, according to court documents.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Pottstown man charged after burning car found in driveway
By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
POTTSTOWN — A Pottstown man is accused of abusing a woman, setting her car on fire, then sending threatening text messages to her family.
Jonathan Jackson, 23, will face several felony counts including robbery, aggravated assault, and reckless burning or exploding as well as simple assault and harassment. All of his charges stem from a Feb. 26 incident where Jackson allegedly set a car on fire in a driveway.
According to police, Jackson allegedly attacked a woman who lives in the 200 block of King Street around 5 p.m.
The victim told responding officers that Jackson was outside her home and allegedly assaulted her. Jackson allegedly punched the victim several times in the face, slammed her head into the ground, then grabbed her ponytail and pulled her through the snow and down the sidewalk.
Police said Jackson allegedly stole the victim’s cellphone and the keys to her Saturn Ion. Jackson allegedly took the car, found an unknown accelerant, and drove through the alley between 2nd and 3rd streets west of Johnson Street, police said.
Jackson then allegedly stopped the car behind a house on Third Street before pouring accelerant on the car and setting it on fire, police said.
After an investigation, police found Jackson allegedly sent a text message to the victim’s sister telling her the car was on fire, that he was looking for a mutual acquaintance, that he was “not done yet.” Police also said the text message listed the address for the victim’s mother and Jackson allegedly said he was coming for her.
Jackson was arraigned on Feb. 27 by District Judge Edward C. Kropp Sr. His bail was set at $500,000 and he is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of his bail.
He is expected in court again on March 10 at 8:30 a.m., court documents said.
casweeney@pottsmerc.com
 |
| Courtesy of Jeanette Wade |
POTTSTOWN — A Pottstown man is accused of abusing a woman, setting her car on fire, then sending threatening text messages to her family.
Jonathan Jackson, 23, will face several felony counts including robbery, aggravated assault, and reckless burning or exploding as well as simple assault and harassment. All of his charges stem from a Feb. 26 incident where Jackson allegedly set a car on fire in a driveway.
According to police, Jackson allegedly attacked a woman who lives in the 200 block of King Street around 5 p.m.
The victim told responding officers that Jackson was outside her home and allegedly assaulted her. Jackson allegedly punched the victim several times in the face, slammed her head into the ground, then grabbed her ponytail and pulled her through the snow and down the sidewalk.
Police said Jackson allegedly stole the victim’s cellphone and the keys to her Saturn Ion. Jackson allegedly took the car, found an unknown accelerant, and drove through the alley between 2nd and 3rd streets west of Johnson Street, police said.
Jackson then allegedly stopped the car behind a house on Third Street before pouring accelerant on the car and setting it on fire, police said.
After an investigation, police found Jackson allegedly sent a text message to the victim’s sister telling her the car was on fire, that he was looking for a mutual acquaintance, that he was “not done yet.” Police also said the text message listed the address for the victim’s mother and Jackson allegedly said he was coming for her.
Jackson was arraigned on Feb. 27 by District Judge Edward C. Kropp Sr. His bail was set at $500,000 and he is confined to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in lieu of his bail.
He is expected in court again on March 10 at 8:30 a.m., court documents said.
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