Pompeii

Who's in the News ▫️Illinois State Police human trafficking operation leads to 5 arrests MOLINE – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau arrested five individuals during a two-day human trafficking enforcement operation in the Moline area on April 3-4, according to a news release from the agency. The operation was focused on identifying individuals seeking to engage in commercial sex acts. As a result of the operation, each of the following individuals were arrested and charged with indecent solicitation a child (Class 3 felony) and traveling to meet a child (Class 3 Felony): Rajeshwar Akku, 24, of Moline; Adam C. Curry 43, of Sherrard, Illinois; Timothy L. Danielson, 45, of Geneseo, Illinois; Andy M. Hershberger, 33, of Roseville, Illinois; and Santeeno E. Nickerson, 38, of Moline. » https://www.kwqc.com/2024/04/05/4-charged-rock-island-co-human-trafficking-case/ (VIDEO) » https://www.clintonherald.com/news/crime_courts/illinois-state-police-human-trafficking-operation-leads-to-5-arrests/article_cb96d988-f3a7-11ee-bc29-bf145f30f55d.html » ▫️Operation Kessel Run: 13th Suspect Arrested For Trying To Lure Minors For Sex In Escambia County The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden, the Escambia and Santa Rosa county sheriff’s offices, Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach police departments, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and U.S. Marshals Service participated in the operation that was announced in March. Friday, FDLE announced the arrest of David Gibbs, 36. » http://www.northescambia.com/2024/04/13-suspect-arrested-for-trying-to-lure-minors-for-sex-in-escambia-county » https://t.me/ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING/13981 ▫️Four men arrested in child predator sting in Washington County WASHINGTON COUNTY Ore. - On Thursday four men were caught by an undercover child predator sting conducted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. The men were charged with luring a minor and first-degree sexual corruption of a child. During the sting, investigators used multiple dating apps, social media sites, and other online platforms to pose as underage boys and girls. The people who contacted the profiles and offered to meet a person they believed to be a child for sex. When the individuals arrived to meet the child they were arrested by law enforcement. The men arrested have been identified as Matthew Goldman, 30, of Tigard, Jesus Rodriguez-Garcia, 27, of Forest Grove, Gerardo Serrano-Garcia, 25, of Hillsboro, and Ruben Olvera-Gaona, 54, of Forest Grove, who was also arrested for a warrant out of Washington County for giving false information to a police officer. » https://www.kgw.com/video/news/crime/4-men-behind-bars-after-child-predator-sting/283-166d1c40-db99-4b5b-8b5e-e87d6a920806 (VIDEO) » https://www.kptv.com/2024/04/05/four-men-arrested-child-predator-sting-washington-county/ ▫️3 arrested in East Texas accused of using child to mask drugs NACOGDOCHES COUNTY, Texas — Three Wisconsin residents suspected of human trafficking were arrested this week after East Texas deputies found a 8-year-old child and multiple packages filled with drugs next to the child during a traffic stop. Luis Emmanuel Quevedo-Vasquez, 29, Carmen Guadalupe Diaz, 24, and Christina Soledad Soler, 32, all of Green Bay, were taken into custody Tuesday when a deputy pulled Diaz over for speeding Tuesday night near the intersection of Durst Street and Stallings Drive in Nacogdoches. All six children have been released to Child Protective Services while a suitable guardian is found, according to the NCSO. https://www.cbs19.tv/article/news/local/3-wisconsin-residents-arrested-in-east-texas-allegedly-using-8-year-old-to-mask-the-drug-smuggling-operation/501-d80478c8-e874-4b7b-9da0-fcef58359132 ▫️Hai Vo, man convicted of Travis County sexual assault, at large TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — Officials are searching for a man convicted of aggravated sexual assault last week. The Travis County District Attorney's Office said on Thursday, March 28, a jury convicted 56-year-old Hai Vo of aggravated sexual assault. However, on Friday, March 29, Vo did not appear for the punishment phase of his trial. Now, there's an active warrant out for his arrest. » https://www.kvue.com/article/news/crime/hai-vo-at-large-travis-county/269-c8d1dc93-590c-416d-9eb3-7dd856fcb07c (VIDEO) » ▫️Pastor accused of raping impaired teen now on the run, is former cop Monte Lavelle Chitty, a 62-year-old Florida pastor and former police officer accused of getting a 15-year-old member of his church drunk and sexually assaulting her, is now on the run weeks after he was released on a $75,000 bond. “Our understanding is that he’s already on the road and he’s left the state of Florida,” Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward told Local 10 News on Monday. Chitty, who served as leader of First Baptist of Marathon, recently started a dockside ministry for a boating community in Boot Key Harbor, failed to attend a scheduled court hearing on Monday. Prosecutors say he fled the state in a white van with out-of-state plates. A judge increased his bond to $1.3 million and issued a warrant for his arrest, Local 10 reported. » https://www.local10.com/news/local/2024/04/01/marathon-pastor-accused-of-sexually-battering-teen-in-church-is-now-a-fugitive/ » https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/04/pastor-accused-of-raping-impaired-teen-now-on-the-run-is-former-cop/ ▫️Music Teacher Is Charged With Taking Teenagers on Trips to Abuse Them The music teacher’s classes at the strict, no-nonsense reform school in the woods of upstate New York would seem to be a teenager’s respite amid all the rules, a place for expression and discovery. But a criminal indictment unsealed Thursday portrayed that teacher as a domineering and abusive tyrant who, during one-on-one trips away from school and outside the state, raped his teenage students or forced them into sexual activity. The indictment follows years of lawsuits that have portrayed the Family Foundation School, a small boarding academy in rural Delaware County, as something closer to an unsupervised, violent prison. The teacher, Paul Geer, 56, was arrested Wednesday and charged with six counts related to bringing three different children across state lines to engage in unlawful sexual activity. Mr. Geer pleaded not guilty at an arraignment before a federal magistrate judge in Syracuse, N.Y., on Thursday, and was denied release pending a detention hearing set for Monday. » https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/04/music-teacher-is-charged-with-taking-teenagers-on-trips-to-abuse-them/ » https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/former-delaware-county-teacher-indicted-coercing-transporting-and-sexually-abusing ▫️Man Accused of Secretly Recording Women in St. Louis Area ST. LOUIS – A man has been indicted on a federal charge and accused of secretly recording women in the St. Louis area. Erik Elsasser, 37, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis March 27 on one felony count of distribution of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty Thursday. https://www.justice.gov/usao-edmo/pr/man-accused-secretly-recording-women-st-louis-area ▫️VIDEO: Texas National guardsman nabbed for human smuggling BRACKETTVILLE, Texas — A 26-year-old man who was reportedly working for Texas National Guard was arrested for human smuggling. Savion Johnson was arrested in Brackettville, Texas, near the US-Mexico border, on Sunday after evading arrest, according the Texas Department of Public Safety. Texas officials told The National Desk Johnson was charged with smuggling of persons, unlawful carry of a weapon and evading arrest. Kinney County sheriff's deputies were part of the high-speed chase after Johnson abruptly turned around at a checkpoint. https://foxsanantonio.com/news/nation-world/video-national-guard-member-nabbed-for-human-smuggling-savion-johnson-brackettville-texas-us-mexico-border-kinney-county-sheriff-brad-coe-governor-greg-abbott (VIDEO) ▫️Girls sexually assaulted in home invasion, suspect caught after ‘extensive manhunt’ ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MI - A suspect in a home invasion and sexual assault has been arrested after an “extensive manhunt” and is being held on an immigration detainer, according to the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect is a 25-year-old Sturgis man. He is currently charged with one count of home invasion first degree and two counts of criminal sexual conduct first degree (person under the age of 13) and being held on an immigration detainer, the sheriff’s office said. “From what I understand, he’s here illegally,” Undersheriff Jason Bingaman said, and he did not have further specifics Friday afternoon. https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2024/04/girls-sexually-assaulted-in-home-invasion-suspect-caught-after-extensive-manhunt.html ▫️Branford tennis instructor sentenced to prison for enticing a minor A tennis instructor from Branford who sent hundreds of sexually explicit messages to a 12-year-old he was teaching has been sentenced to serve eight years in prison, according to officials. Tyler Purskey, 34, appeared in Superior Court in New Haven Friday and received a sentence of 15 years, suspended after serving eight years, and followed by 15 years of sexual offender probation, according to State's Attorney John Doyle Jr. https://www.greenwichtime.com/news/article/branford-tennis-tyler-purskey-entice-minor-19388292.php ▫️Carr: DeKalb County Human Trafficking Investigation Leads to New Arrest for Hindering the Apprehension of a Criminal ATLANTA, GA – Attorney General Chris Carr today announced that Crystal Carter, 44, of Stone Mountain, has been arrested and charged with Hindering the Apprehension of a Criminal, specifically defendant Terry Florence who is alleged to have trafficked one minor and two adult females in DeKalb County. Florence, 33, of Conyers, was indicted by the Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit in July 2023. Following his indictment, a warrant was issued for his arrest, and Florence was taken into custody on Sep. 26, 2023. During this time, Carter is alleged to have actively assisted Florence in evading his arrest by harboring him in her apartment and providing him with transportation while law enforcement was searching for him. https://law.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-04-02/carr-dekalb-county-human-trafficking-investigation-leads-new-arrest ▫️Brooklyn man sentenced to life in prison for sex trafficking and murder A Brooklyn man has received 10 life sentences for sex trafficking women and killing one of those women in his apartment. Prosecutors say Somorie Moses beat, raped and forced victims into prostitution in 2017. Prosecutors say Moses was also convicted of beating 32-year-old Leondra Foster to death, dismembering her and dumping her body parts in the Bronx four days later. » https://bronx.news12.com/brooklyn-man-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-for-sex-trafficking-and-murder (VIDEO) » https://brooklyn.news12.com/brooklyn-man-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-for-sex-trafficking-and-murder ▫️Child molestation suspect who cut off ankle monitor captured PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The child molestation suspect accused of cutting off his ankle monitor earlier this week is back in police custody, 12 News has learned. Police said Corey Dennis, 36, was arrested in New Hampshire Friday morning. Dennis, who’s facing three counts of first-degree child molestation, removed his GPS monitoring device on Monday, according to police. » https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/providence/child-molestation-suspect-who-cut-off-ankle-monitor-captured/ » ▫️Suspect in Randolph County rape, child trafficking case caught RANDOLPH COUNTY, Ind. — The suspect in a Randolph County rape, human trafficking and child exploitation case is on the run overseas. On Jan. 4, Louis Galligan, 20, of Winchester, was arrested and then posted bond. On Feb. 16, Galligan didn't show for a court hearing, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. The Randolph County Sheriff's Office then learned Galligan had flown to the United Kingdom shortly after bonding out. Galligan is in custody, and the U.S. is now working to have him extradited to face charges here. Louis Galligan, 20, faces charges of two counts of rape, two counts of promoting human sex trafficking, one count of child exploitation, and two counts of possessing child pornography. » https://www.wthr.com/article/news/crime/randolph-county-suspect-rape-human-trafficking-child-exploitation-case-escapes-overseas-louis-galligan/531-ccc14ac3-bb50-44a9-b846-2f881e627f56 » https://www.wishtv.com/news/indiana-news/randolph-county-human-trafficking-rape-suspect-found-hiding-in-uk/ ▫️One of 1st women to sue Dr. Fabio Ortega, Chicago-area gynecologist convicted of sexual abuse, speaks out Law firms around the city now claim to represent some 500 women who say doctor abused them. All are former patients who say they were abused by Dr. Ortega while he was employed both by the NorthShore University Health System and Swedish Covenant Hospital. Both are now owned by Endeavor Health. https://abc7chicago.com/dr-fabio-ortega-gynecologist-sexual-abuse-chicago-news/14613020/ ▫️Sex trafficking survivor advocates for child victims as more parents are accused of exploiting their kids TAMPA, Fla. - Familial trafficking is an alarming trend that’s growing in many areas, including Hillsborough County, and it has law enforcement and advocates sounding the alarm on child sex crimes. Essentially, it’s children being exploited or trafficked by their own parents, usually for money or drugs, and experts say it’s happening more than you think. Natasha Nascimento runs Redefining Refuge, a program aimed at helping child trafficking survivors who have been rescued. https://www.fox13news.com/news/parents-using-their-children-as-sex-commodities-on-the-rise (VIDEO) ▫️Sex abuse lawsuits against Yeshiva University can proceed, NY judge says A pair of lawsuits against Yeshiva University brought by more than 50 men who say they were sexually abused decades ago by teachers and staff while in the Orthodox Jewish high school associated with the college can move forward, a New York state judge said. New York Supreme Court Justice Alexander Tisch on Tuesday rejected the school’s bid to dismiss the two parallel lawsuits, holding that a 2019 New York state law that lifted the statute of limitations on the claims is constitutional. Justice Tisch also said the plaintiffs had sufficiently alleged that the school failed to stop the abuse and failed to provide a safe environment for its students. Attorney Kevin Mulhearn, who represents 49 of the plaintiffs, said he has clients who have been waiting over a decade to get documents about what the school knew of the abuse. https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/04/sex-abuse-lawsuits-against-yeshiva-university-can-proceed-ny-judge-says/ ▫️'Game of Thrones' Actor Joseph Gatt Sues LA Over Pedophile Claims Joseph Gatt has sued Los Angeles County, its district attorney and more for falsely claiming he was a pedophile after being arrested and charged with alleged sexual communication with a minor in 2022. The charge was later dropped, and he’s now calling the arrest “utterly baseless” in his lawsuit for $40 million. » https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/game-of-thrones-joseph-gatt-sues-pedophile-1235961650/ » https://www.tvanouvelles.ca/2024/04/05/fausses-accusations-de-pedophilie-un-acteur-de-game-of-thrones-intente-une-poursuite-de-67-millions-de-dollars _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Ruth P. McCauslin, age 96 of Rockton, PA died Friday, April 5, 2024 at Christ the King Manor. Born on July 3, 1927 in Luthersburg, PA, she was the daughter of the late Emery and Mossilene (Woods) Miles. On November 19, 1949, she married Edward J. McCauslin. He preceded her in death on April 11, 2018. Ruth had attended the Christian Missionary and Alliance Church in DuBois and most recently attended the First Baptist Church. She had worked at Bell Telephone, was a manager at Agway Egg Processing, and was a receptionist at the Riverside office. Ruth had been a patron member of the National Rifle Association, and a charter member of the Brady Township Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed being a homemaker, bowling, cooking, and loved being with her family. She is survived by three children; Kevin McCauslin and his wife Kathy of Hermosa, SD; Sherry Murphy of Rockton; and Douglas McCauslin and his wife Peggy of Rockton, four grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two brothers, James W. Miles of Luthersburg, PA, Emery V. Miles of Winter Haven, FL, and a sister, Rita Canan of DuBois, PA. She was preceded in death by her sister Marian Dush, and her son-in-law, Charles Murphy. There will be no public visitation or services. Ruth was a prayer warrior. Therefore, the family requests that the time that would be invested in attending a service, be spent praying for one another. Memorial may be placed with Christ the King Manor, 1100 West Long Ave., DuBois, PA 15801. The Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be sent http://www.baronickfuneralhome.com/condolence

Pat Benatar - Hit Me With Your Best Shot (Live)

Who's in the News? ▫️Major Online Sex Crimes Operation Leads to Arrest of 11 Individuals Watertown, SD - In a significant development, United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced the conclusion of a joint online sex crimes operation that led to the arrest of 11 individuals. The arrested individuals, all from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, have been federally charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. » https://www.mykxlg.com/news/local/major-online-sex-crimes-operation-leads-to-arrest-of-11-individuals/article_ed97aaaa-f292-11ee-ac0d-db4f4b07473f.html » https://drgnews.com/2024/04/04/eleven-sioux-falls-men-charged-with-online-sex-crimes/ ▫️Operation Impact Demand VII: Six men arrested in Cumberland County prostitution sting Six individuals sought to engage female escorts in sexual activity for money at a Silver Spring Township Hotel. » https://cumberland.crimewatchpa.com/da/5591/post/human-trafficking-prostitution-arrests » https://www.fox43.com/article/news/crime/human-trafficking-task-force-arrests-cumberland-county/521-a3d54a53-5c6f-4151-afc6-a436a698574c ▫️Investigators offer new details on police killing of suspected child rapist in Deer Park The Spokane Independent Investigative Response (SIIR) Team has released their initial report on a March 29 SWAT standoff with a child rape suspect which ended in Spokane County Sheriff’s deputies shooting and killing him. The response team offered a recap of the incident which took place in Deer Park over the course of several hours and included hours of negotiations between SWAT and the suspect. According to the report, the man refused to comply with requests to lift up his jacket to ensure that there was not a gun on his person and did not surrender when asked to do so by his girlfriend via a recorded message. His name has yet to be released by the Spokane County Medical Examiner. https://www.khq.com/news/investigators-offer-new-details-on-police-killing-of-suspected-child-rapist-in-deer-park/article_aaab987c-f20c-11ee-a33d-9b686429fd0f.html ▫️15-year-old girl found safe after she was abducted by man in Richmond, Va. RICHMOND, Va. — A 15-year-old girl who police said was abducted Wednesday evening in Richmond, Va. was found safe Thursday night. Virginia State Police said Channel Poteat was last seen on Newbridge Terrace in Richmond. She was believed to be kidnapped by 23-year-old Tyrell Ashley Davenport. https://wset.com/news/local/amber-alert-virginia-henrico-county-richmond-teen-girl-15-extreme-danger-abducted-kidnapped-man-tyrell-ashley-davenport-channel-poteat-investigation-tags-highway ▫️Texas Amber Alert aftermath: Sirterryon Preston wanted for smuggling a month after being found with Missouri City girl in Columbus HOUSTON, Texas - A month after a 12-year-old girl was found safe, the man she was with has been charged with smuggling. Sirterryon Preston, 27, has a warrant for his arrest for a "smuggling of persons" charge, which is a felony. https://abc13.com/columbus-texas-missouri-city-amber-alert-sirterryon-preston-march-1-girl-disappearance/14619601/ (VIDEO) ▫️Ada man faces human trafficking charge The case involves a Pontotoc County minor three years ago. In June of 2021, a minor in Pontotoc County was lured and assaulted by an online predator. He posed as a 17 year old male on the social media platform Snapchat by the name of Jose. “DNA evidence was collected from that assault. It was entered into a database maintained by law enforcement,” said district attorney for district 22, Erik Johnson. For three years there was no arrest. In January of this year, Mauricio Lopez was arrested and incarcerated in Lawton Correctional Facility for sexual assault of a minor child. Lopez was required to give a DNA sample, and the database lit up. “We finally got the piece of the puzzle that we need to to make the arrest and the subsequent prosecution. We’re going to do that,” said Johnson. The match resulted in the issuance of a felony warrant for 32 year old Lopez, the same predator who in 2021, posed as 17 year old Jose. News 12 will continue to follow this story. https://www.kxii.com/2024/04/05/ada-man-faces-human-trafficking-charge/ (VIDEO) ▫️New charges being filed against illegal immigrant New charges have been filed against an illegal immigrant accused of sexually abusing a 14 year old. Pablo Mendoza was arrested last month after Enterprise Police received a tip from a school resource officer (SRO) of a girl being sexually abused. Upon his arrest, Mendoza was charged with rape. The state has now dropped the rape charge and filed charges of sodomy, sexual abuse and human trafficking. “Even on a first time offense, the range is 10 to 99 years,” said District Attorney James Tarbox, speaking on the human trafficking charge. “I don’t want anyone to think it’s not serious. It’s a very serious charge, a very serious situation, and we are going to continue to treat it as such.” » https://www.wtvy.com/2024/04/05/new-charges-being-filed-against-illegal-immigrant/ https://www.wdhn.com/news/enterprise-man-accused-of-sexually-abusing-minor-denied-bond/ » ▫️Indian man convicted of child sex offenses arrested by immigration authorities An Indian national convicted of child sex offenses, but given light sentences, was arrested last month after he was released from a Maryland detention center without any warning to federal immigration authorities, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (CBP) said Thursday. The unidentified 32-year-old man was arrested March 20 near his home in Ellicott City, 38 miles north of Washington D.C. The arrest stemmed from a warrant out of Montgomery County, Maryland child sex offenses, an ICE news release states. He was placed on sex offender parole by the CBP until Nov. 12, 2022, and turned over to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department for extradition to Maryland. https://www.foxnews.com/us/indian-child-sex-offender-arrested-maryland-courts-light-sentences-detainer-holds-ignored-ice ▫️Half-brothers arrested for continuous human trafficking, SAPD says Two half-brothers accused of continuous human trafficking were arrested Thursday, according to the San Antonio Police Department. » ▫️Former Police Officer Convicted of Multiple Sex Crimes On April 4, 2024, former LAPD Police Officer Michael Robert Casados was convicted of three counts of sexual misconduct with a minor and molestation of a child after a three-day trial in the Apache County Superior Court. https://crimewatch.net/us/az/apache/st-johns-pd/233768/post/former-police-officer-convicted-multiple-sex-crimes ▫️Michigan officer charged with child sex crimes NEWAYGO, Mich. — A Big Rapids Police officer is accused of sexually abusing a young family member. Ryan Dornbos is facing two counts of criminal sexual assault with a person under the age of 13 according to court documents. During the alleged abuse, which happened between 2018 and 2023 at a home in Newaygo County, Dornbos worked as a police officer for the City of Newaygo and in Big Rapids. https://www.wzzm13.com/article/news/local/big-rapids-officer-charged-with-criminal-sexual-conduct/69-93396e1e-0967-4a90-83e9-5b36c91b9be3 ▫️Ex-HPD officer pleads guilty to 4 counts, including child sexual exploitation HONOLULU - A former Honolulu police officer admitted to multiple charges of child sex crimes Thursday. Mason Jordan accepted a deal with federal prosecutors and pleaded guilty to four counts of child sexual exploitation, enticement, and interstate domestic violence. In exchange, the government will dismiss four other charges, including sex trafficking. He faces up to 30 years in prison when he’s sentenced in August. https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2024/04/05/ex-hpd-officer-pleads-guilty-4-counts-including-child-sexual-exploitation/ ▫️Repairman arrested for sexual assault of children, more victims possible: APD A man who was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two children inside an Aurora home where he was working last summer has been arrested, and police believe there may be more victims. Mohamad Arab Bin Shamsur-Alam is accused of sexually assaulting two girls on two separate occasions while working as a repairman at their home. Anyone with information about Shamsur-Alam or any additional victims is asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP and reference case number 23-223290. Police say tips can be made anonymously. » https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/aurora-repairman-arrested-for-alleged-sexual-assault-of-children-police-say-there-could-be-more-victims » https://youtu.be/AJDLiCgsafY ▫️N.Y. man allegedly used minor to lure sex-trafficking victim to Atlantic City A convicted human trafficker accused of using a minor to lure another victim into prostitution was ordered held in jail Wednesday. Tesean Green, 47, was arrested March 23, after police responded to Resorts Atlantic City, where a woman claimed she was being sexually trafficked. Green allegedly used his grandchild’s 17-year-old mother to get the victim to fly from her home in Louisiana to New York. https://breakingac.com/news/2024/apr/04/ny-man-allegedly-used-minor-to-lure-sex-trafficking-victim-to-atlantic-city/ ▫️Woman accused of sexual battery, human trafficking of nonverbal girl, St. Johns deputies say ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — A woman was arrested early Thursday, accused of the sexual battery of a nonverbal girl, according to a St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office arrest report. Katie Malone, 34, is facing the following charges: Human trafficking committed upon a disabled person; Capital sexual battery; Lewd or lascivious molestation committed upon a disabled person; Transmission of child sexual abuse material (CSAM); Unlawful use of a two-way communications device; Production of CSAM; Sexual performance of a child The tip was originally reported by Media Lab, Kik, the SJSO report said. Kik is a messaging app that allows users to remain anonymous. https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/st-johns-county/woman-accused-sexual-battery-human-trafficking-nonverbal-girl-st-johns-deputies-say/WLCOD5TOC5GJ3CUUK3PA6FS22U/ ▫️Prostitution operation ‘thwarted’ at Michigan health business, police say ROCHESTER, MI – A prostitution operation at a health business was “thwarted” by police. The alleged prostitution was being run out of the recently opened Green Rose Health Studio, on Oakwood Drive near downtown Rochester, according to a news release from the Rochester Police Department. The department conducted surveillance and used undercover officers to obtain a search warrant, police said. The warrant was recently executed, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of evidence, including cash, cell phones and computers. https://www.mlive.com/news/2024/04/prostitution-operation-thwarted-at-michigan-health-business-police-say.html ▫️Principal at Portland school where girl, 9, was 'gang-raped in a bathroom by two boys' is slammed for launching internal probe and not telling cops - as it emerges child was sexually attacked TWICE before without cops being told The principal of a Portland school where a nine-year-girl was allegedly gang-raped is being slammed for not taking the case to cops as a lawsuit from the girl's family claims that there were two prior incidents of sexual assault against the little girl. A $9million lawsuit was filed last month by the family of the unidentified girl who was allegedly attacked in the bathroom of her elementary school by two boys. José Salinas was announced as the interim principal at Schott Elementary School on July 15, 2021, and served as the school's leader until Tiana Ahmann was announced as the interim principal in October, 2023, over a year after the incident happened. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13273171/portland-elementary-school-principal-slammed-lawsuit-gang-rape.html ▫️Parents claim children with special needs were sexually assaulted by driver EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. — Two more families have come forward with sexual assault allegations against a former El Dorado County Office of Education van driver, who is currently in jail on sexual assault-related charges in connection to two adults with disabilities. Tarik Manasrah, 42, was arrested by the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office in August 2023. » https://www.kcra.com/article/children-special-needs-sexually-assaulted-school-van-driver-families-claim/60375001# (VIDEO) » https://www.kake.com/story/50637340/two-families-claim-their-children-with-special-needs-were-sexually-assaulted-by-school-van-driver ▫️25-year sentence for former day care worker SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -Horrifying and calculated – those are the words a Minnehaha County Judge used today to describe the crimes committed by a former child care worker. Moments later, she sentenced Chris Phoumy to 25-years in prison for child pornography and having sexual contact with children in his care. That’s in addition to Phoumy’s Lincoln County sentence. All together he’ll serve 50 years behind bars. https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/south-dakota-news/25-year-sentence-for-former-area-day-care-worker/ ▫️New Rochelle man Jason Ricketts gets 21 years in prison for sexually abusing kids A perverted New Rochelle man will spend the next 21 years in prison after he admitted to a years-long cycle of sexually abusing three children and secretly filming the sickening encounters, prosecutors said Thursday. Jason Ricketts, 23, was hit with the prison term Thursday after he previously pleaded guilty to sex crimes that started in 2019 when the victims were 12-years-old and lasted until early 2023, the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office said. https://nypost.com/2024/04/04/us-news/new-rochelle-man-gets-21-years-in-prison-for-sexually-abusing-kids/ ▫️City takes steps to fight human trafficking AUSTIN - On Thursday, Austin City Council made steps to fight human trafficking in the city. Council member Mackenzie Kelly held a news conference to highlight those efforts and key initiatives. https://www.kxan.com/news/local/austin/city-takes-steps-to-fight-human-trafficking/ (VIDEO) ▫️Online Human Trafficking Summit Along with the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking and its partners, Attorney General Ashley Moody is pleased to announce the 2024 Human Trafficking Summit will launch virtually on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 and be available online through March 2025. The 2024 Human Trafficking Summit is free of charge and includes sessions covering recent updates and developments in Legal, Service Delivery, and Education & Awareness. https://www.humantraffickingsummit.com/ ▫️Hands That Heal Human Trafficking Training for Awareness and Community Assessment Tickets, Tue, May 7, 2024 at 8.30 AM | Traverse City Michigan Works Come learn how to recognize and combat human trafficking in our community at the Hands That Heal Training - let's make a difference together, 1209 South Garfield Avenue ## C Traverse City, MI 49686 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hands-that-heal-human-trafficking-training-for-awareness-and-community-assessment-tickets-875453544117?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse ▫️Trauma expert, aiding Epstein victims, featured at 'Turn On the Light Conference' WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Palm Beach County Convention Center buzzed with activity on Thursday as the "Turn on the Light National Conference on the Wellbeing of Children and Families" brought together dozens of parents, volunteers, and professionals dedicated to supporting children and families. Psychotherapist and trauma expert Randee Kogan served as the keynote speaker. Kogan, who has provided support to victims of Jeffrey Epstein since 2007, spoke at the event to educate and advise the attendees about sexual violence and trauma. https://cbs12.com/news/local/national-child-abuse-prevention-month-trauma-expert-aiding-jeffrey-epstein-victims-featured-at-turn-on-the-light-conference-florida-news-west-palm-beach-april-4-2024 (VIDEO) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

As I watched through the viewfinder, a captivating scene unfolded—the cardinal appeared to hover, her movements graceful and deliberate, in front of the mirror. This shift in his demeanor was both fascinating and poignant, suggesting a moment of recognition or perhaps confusion in the face of his own reflection. The idea that he might be on the cusp of realizing the mirror's true nature added a layer of depth to the encounter. Was he beginning to understand that the fierce rival he had been so ardently challenging was, in fact, himself? This question lingered in the air, as the delicate dance between bird and reflection evolved into a moment of potential self-awareness. The possibility that I was witnessing a wild creature confronting its own image, a scenario usually reserved for the realm of human experience, was a profound reminder of the intricate connections that weave through the tapestry of the natural world. My camera, ready to capture the outcome, was more than just a tool in that moment—it was a witness to the subtle and often unseen narratives that unfold around us, stories of discovery, identity, and the enigmatic nature of reflection. ... at Little Pine State Park. > John Green

EARTHQUAKE, more EARTHQUAKES and even some LIGHTENING

George J. Bures, 84, of Wyoming, PA passed away Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at his home. He was the beloved husband of Florence Savino Bures. Together they shared 63 years of marriage. Born in DuBois, on October 31, 1939, George was the son of the late William and Celesta Auman Bures. He was a member of St. Barbara's Parish in Exeter. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a maintenance supervisor by the Dallas Correctional Facility. George proudly served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963, during the Cold War and Cuban Missile Crisis. He loved his family immensely and had many interests and hobbies. He enjoyed baseball games, and was a loyal Pittsburgh Penguins, Pirates, Steelers, and also an avid NASCAR fan. He loved fast cars, anything with a motor and enjoyed tinkering with engines. He was always available to fix things, mostly cars. He had an incredible sense of humor and was a gifted storyteller with a special knack for making people laugh. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Annette Klinger. Surviving are his wife, Florence; his children, William M. Bures and his partner, Joel Carrier, FL; Brenda Bures-Guidubaldi and her husband, John, OH; Philip J. Bures and his wife, Jill, Bermuda; and Kate Bures and her wife, Lori George, PA; four grandchildren, April Johnson and her partner Jason Martinko; Philip Johnson and his wife, Sarah; Nicole Schramek and her husband Todd; and Brittaney Baena-Bures; five great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 10 a.m. until 11a.m. at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. A committal service will follow immediately after from St. Catherine Cemetery with Msgr. Richard Siefer officiating. Full military honors will be accorded by the members of the DuBois Area Honor Guard Condolences may be offered at http://www.baronickfuneralhome.com/condolence

Babys - Back On My Feet Again

I was pretty happy to see this little Gold Crowned Kinglet fluttering around in the brush this morning as I sat along the river. I really didn't think he was going to give me a clear shot but eventually he slipped up and landed in a very small opening. That bright gold crown is easy to spot but it's still a challenge to photograph this little bird that doesn't even tip the scale to a half ounce. > Tom Dorsey

Who's in the News? ▫️Second Annual Anti-Trafficking 'Operation Better Pathways' Nets 46 Arrests 46 people were arrested during a sex trafficking sting last month in San Diego and National City, the California Attorney General’s Office announced Wednesday. Officials added that twenty people, including seven children, were offered support services. The California Attorney General’s Office said that San Diego County Child Welfare Services and adult and juvenile support service advocates provided assistance to potential victims and survivors of abuse. » https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2024/04/03/second-annual-anti-trafficking-operation-better-pathways-nets-46-arrests/ » https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-san-diego-human-trafficking-task-force-announce-results-4 ▫️Operation March Sadness: Scottsdale and Surprise Police arrest dozens in sex crimes sting PHOENIX - Surprise Police officials announced that they, along with Scottsdale Police, have arrested dozens of people as part of a sex crimes-related operation. In a statement, investigators say the two-day sting, which they called "Operation March Sadness," focused on "identifying, confronting, and reducing sex-trafficking crimes in the Valley." In all, Surprise Police say the operation led to 42 arrests across Arizona. Of those arrested, three of them are accused of luring or attempted sexual conduct with a minor, while the rest are accused of prostitution. » https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/operation-march-sadness-scottsdale-and-surprise-police-arrest-dozens-in-sex-crimes-sting » https://www.azfamily.com/2024/04/04/surprise-scottsdale-task-force-arrests-42-sex-trafficking-operation/ ▫️Fairfax County police arrest 5 men in operation targeting accused online child predators FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) said five men were arrested after traveling into Fairfax County for “criminal encounters with minors.” Steven Morales, 30, of Woodbridge, was arrested and charged with solicitation of a minor and attempted indecent liberties with a minor. Karl Frey, 53, of Maryland, was arrested and charged with solicitation of a minor and attempted indecent liberties with a minor. Joseph Nandigam, 24, of Fairfax, was arrested and charged with solicitation of a minor and attempted indecent liberties with a minor. Adeel Chughtai, 30, of Lorton, was arrested and charged with solicitation of a minor. Byron Crawford, 26, of Maryland, was arrested and charged with two counts of solicitation of a minor and three counts of distribution of child pornography. » https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/northern-virginia/5-alleged-sexual-predators-arrested-in-fairfax-county-sting-operation/3583476/ (VIDEO) » https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/virginia/fairfax-county/fairfax-county-police-arrest-5-men-in-operation-targeting-accused-online-child-predators/ (VIDEO) » https://wjla.com/news/local/fairfax-county-arrest-child-abuse-cases-csam-predator-spring-breaks-safety-online-tips-help-police-officials-predator-five-virginia-baltimore-maryland-online-social-media (GALLERY) » ▫️Tampa sex trafficking suspects accused of beating, branding victims: 'Strip them of human morals' TAMPA, Fla. - A Tampa couple accused of running a human sex trafficking operation in Florida and other states was back in court on Wednesday. Marquette James and Alyson Marquette are accused of beating and drugging women they forced into sex work. Department of Homeland Security special agent Mike Saclarides testified on Wednesday that a tip led to the couple’s arrest. They discovered two victims and even James’ own daughter was a future target.) » https://www.fox13news.com/news/tampa-sex-trafficking-suspects-accused-of-beating-branding-victims » ▫️FBI 'hostage rescue operation': 4 arrested at East Houston AirBnB HOUSTON - FBI Houston says they rescued "several potential victims" and arrested four suspects in an Eastwood raid early Wednesday morning. The FBI says this is a part of a larger-scale investigation and they can't release any more information on what happened inside the house or the status of the "potential victims." https://www.fox26houston.com/news/fbi-search-harby-southeast-houston (VIDEO) ▫️New York man arrested for sexually battering 15-year-old in Gainesville GAINESVILLE, Fla. - A man from New York staying at a home in Gainesville was arrested for sexually battering a 15-year-old girl in the home. Gainesville Police Department officers arrested Tyquan Adams, 26, on three counts of sexual battery of a minor and two counts of distribution of obscene material. https://www.wcjb.com/2024/04/03/new-york-man-arrested-sexually-battering-15-year-old-gainesville/ ▫️Man arrested for alleged sexual assault of 10-year-old SHREVEPORT, La. - Christopher Baker, 26, has been arrested for alleged molestation of juveniles. Complaints were made against Baker in Jan. 2024 in connection to the sexual assault of a 10-year-old. The Shreveport Sex Crimes Unit then issued a warrant for his arrest. Anyone with information related to this incident, or any incident, is encouraged to contact police. https://www.ksla.com/2024/04/03/man-arrested-alleged-sexual-assault-10-year-old/ ▫️Colombian national accused of child sexual assault arrested in Massachusetts LYNN, Massachusetts — A Colombian national, accused of child sexual assault, was arrested by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston near his residence in Lynn, Massachusetts on March 28. The individual, who had been charged locally with rape and indecent assault and battery of a minor over the age of 14, was unlawfully present in the United States. » https://www.mytexasdaily.com/north-texas/colombian-national-accused-of-child-sexual-assault-arrested-in-massachusetts/article_c1679627-1796-5f62-a294-039ba3340b5e.html » https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-apprehends-colombian-national-arrested-sex-crimes-against-massachusetts ▫️Harris County officials look for more possible victims of accused serial rapist, NASA engineer Eric Sim now faces six sexual assault charges HOUSTON — Four more women have now come forward to say a NASA aerospace engineer sexually assaulted them and investigators believe there may be more victims. Eric Sim, 37, is currently facing six counts of sexual assault and the district attorney's office calls him a "sexual predator." They are asking any other victims to come forward. » https://www.khou.com/article/news/crime/more-victims-man-identified-nasa-engineer-sexual-assault/285-e805d3bc-ea2b-4b59-979d-49013707d0e0 (VIDEO) » ▫️Texas College Pastor, Who Abused Child for 7 Years, Avoids Jail Time in Plea Deal A Texas college pastor who sexually abused an underage family member for 7 years will not serve any jail time due to a recent plea agreement. The pastor, William C. Robinson, led a chapter of Chi Alpha Campus Ministries and was mentored by sex offender Daniel Savala, the central figure in a widening sex abuse scandal. On March 22, Robinson, 47, appeared at a district court hearing in Nueces County, Texas, and accepted a plea deal. That deal, approved by District Judge David Stith, deferred Robinson’s sentence for five felony charges related to child sex abuse and gave him 10 years of probation and 120 hours of community service instead. » https://julieroys.com/texas-college-pastor-robinson-abused-child-seven-years-avoids-jail-time-plea-deal/ » https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/04/texas-college-pastor-who-abused-child-for-7-years-avoids-jail-time-in-plea-deal/ ▫️St. Peters daycare worker charged with child sex crimes ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — A St. Peters daycare employee was charged Tuesday with child sex crimes involving two victims, including a child who attended the daycare where he worked. St. Charles County prosecutors charged Rudolph Hlavaty, 19, with second-degree child molestation and promoting a sexual performance by a child. Each charge is a felony. https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/st-charles-county-daycare-worker-charged-with-child-sex-crimes/63-f6d3c680-62f9-4b4f-9b9c-39056a1ade93 ▫️Maryland Man Sentenced to Life for Repeatedly Raping a Girl Under His Care WASHINGTON – Charles Clark, 67, of Waldorf, Maryland, was sentenced today to life in prison for sexually abusing a young girl entrusted to his care. In a related case, on March 30, 2023, Clark pled guilty Charles County, Maryland, to one count of sexual abuse a minor/continuing conduct, and one count of sexual abuse of a minor. On December 7, 2023, the defendant was sentenced in Charles County, Maryland, to a term of 45 years in prison. https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/maryland-man-sentenced-life-repeatedly-raping-girl-under-his-care ▫️ICE ERO Houston removes 3 Guatemalan fugitives wanted for rape | ICE HOUSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston Field Office, with assistance from ERO Guatemala and the Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement (SAFE) task force, removed from the United States on April 1, three unlawfully present Guatemalan fugitives wanted for rape. Aurelio Coy-Quib, 41, Byron Randolfo Parada Vasquez, 27, and Luis Antonio Sian-Gonzalez, 33, were flown on a charter flight coordinated by ICE’s Air Operations Unit from the Alexandria International Airport in Alexandria, Louisiana, to the La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Upon arrival, all three fugitives were transferred into the custody of Guatemalan authorities. https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ice-ero-houston-removes-3-guatemalan-fugitives-wanted-rape ▫️Human Trafficking Task Force serves warrants on 2 Lakewood massage parlors LAKEWOOD, Ohio - Cuyahoga County’s Human Trafficking Task Force served search warrants Wednesday at two massage parlors in Lakewood and one in North Olmsted. Investigators say more warrants could soon be issued as they continue their investigation. The Task Force teamed up with the Lakewood Police Department to serve warrants on massage parlors, both within blocks of each other on Madison Avenue. Investigators found living quarters inside one parlor, say it could be part of much bigger operation https://www.cleveland19.com/2024/04/03/human-trafficking-task-force-serves-warrants-2-lakewood-massage-parlors/ (VIDEO) ▫️$3,000 Reward: Odessa man added to Texas 'most wanted' sexual offender list Christopher Michael Anderson, 46, has been added to Texas's most wanted sexual offender list with ties to Odessa. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to his arrest. https://www.theintelligencer.com/news/article/texas-most-wanted-sexual-offender-19383714.php ▫️Lawsuit claims suburban park district knowingly employed sex predator GLENVIEW, Ill. - The Glenview Park District is facing a new lawsuit after allegedly keeping a lifeguard on staff that had multiple child sexual abuse complaints against him. Zachary Cortes, a lifeguard with the Glenview Park District, was arrested in January on charges of disorderly conduct and sexual exploitation of a minor. https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/lawsuit-claims-suburban-park-district-knowingly-employed-sex-predator ▫️US teens brought to private facility in Jamaica under conditions akin to trafficking, says attorney The conditions under which troubled teens are transported to the now embattled Atlantis Leadership Academy in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth are being likened to that of human trafficking. New York City based child welfare attorney Dawn Post is in Jamaica to assist with relocating seven American boys who were at the facility. https://radiojamaicanewsonline.com/local/us-teens-brought-to-private-facility-in-jamaica-under-conditions-akin-to-trafficking-says-attorney ▫️Active-Duty Airman Arrested for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Wilmington, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware announced that an active-duty airman was arrested and charged today for the attempted enticement of a minor. According to publicly filed documents, Armand Nicholas Lu, 36, a Technical Sergeant (E-06) assigned to the Dover Air Force Base, met online, and began communicating via text message with an individual whom Lu believed to be a 14-year-old girl. In reality, and unbeknownst to Lu, the individual was a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. https://www.justice.gov/usao-de/pr/active-duty-airman-arrested-attempted-enticement-minor-0 ▫️In just 22 days, hundreds of thousands of visitors will flood downtown Detroit for the 2024 NFL draft, and law enforcement says among them will be victims of human trafficking and those who enable it. ▫️International Sex Offender With Ties to Cleveland Arrested by U.S. Marshals Cleveland, OH – The U.S. Marshals (USMS) in Maryland, in conjunction with the USMS in Cleveland, OH arrested Stephan A. Pittman (46) in Fort Washington, Maryland earlier today. Pittman was wanted by the USMS for failure to register as a sex offender and by the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) for failure to appear on prior sex offender registration violations. Pittman was convicted of sexual assault in Texas in 2009 and required to register as a sex offender under the Adam Walsh Act. Pittman was released from a Texas prison in 2014 and relocated to Cleveland. It was alleged that Pittman violated his registration requirements while living in Cleveland and the CCSO obtained a warrant for his arrest. Pittman fled, becoming a fugitive. He was tracked by the USMS to Germany however he was not subject to extradition under German law and the case went cold. While residing in Germany Pittman was again convicted of a sex offense, this time the forcible rape of a 15-year-old girl. https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/international-sex-offender-ties-cleveland-arrested-us-marshals ▫️‘A win for Northeast Ohio’: U.S. marshals in Cleveland launch task force for missing children CLEVELAND, Ohio — Long before cellphones blare Amber Alerts for missing and endangered children, U.S. marshals across the region are working to avoid a tragedy. In recent months, they helped find a 1-year-old girl and her 17-year-old mother who were kidnapped in Marshallville and gained a confession from a Columbus woman accused of killing a 5-year-boy and dumping his body in a sewer. https://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/2024/04/a-win-for-northeast-ohio-us-marshals-in-cleveland-launch-task-force-for-missing-children.html ▫️‘I was only 12’: Sex trafficking survivor now hopes to help other victims TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A woman who was a victim of child sex trafficking starting at age 12 is now on a mission to help save other girls. Sufiyah Yasmine joined a group of women who are dedicated to recovering missing and exploited girls. Her story is unique. She said it all started when she was just a little girl. Her brother joined a gang, and because of that, she got sucked into a life she did not sign up for. Gang leaders kept selling her to other gangs, who physically and sexually abused her. https://www.wfla.com/news/local-news/i-was-only-12-sex-trafficking-survivor-now-hopes-to-help-other-victims/ (VIDEO) ▫️America's Most Wanted host John Walsh praises Omaha's Project Harmony as it launches new initiative LA VISTA, Neb. — Longtime "America's Most Wanted" host John Walsh called Omaha's Project Harmony "the best and most impressive advocacy center in the country" at the organization's "Speaking of Children" lunch on Wednesday. More than 1,400 people attended the event at the Embassy Suites Omaha-La Vista Conference Center. Walsh is the longtime host of "America's Most Wanted" and a co-founder of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Klein announced Wednesday a new initiative to work with around 60 agencies closer to get help to kids they believe are at high risk of being a victim of human trafficking. Klein said they believe 400-500 children reported missing to Omaha police are at high risk. https://www.ketv.com/article/americas-most-wanted-host-john-walsh-praises-omaha-project-harmony/60388436 ▫️Bakken Human Trafficking Summit North Dakota Professional Development The 4th Annual Bakken Human Trafficking Summit will focus on a variety of topics related to sex and labor trafficking, sexual exploitation, and more. This event, organized by North Dakota-based nonprofit 31:8 Project, features several keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel discussions to better inform the community about sex and labor trafficking in Western North Dakota. Our event speakers will include: law enforcement, healthcare professionals, human service representatives, and survivors of human trafficking. The event takes place on May 21-22 in Minot, ND at the MSU Ann Nicole Nelson Hall located at 500 University Ave W. https://northdakotapd.com/event/bakken-human-trafficking-summit/ ▫️Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking Conference Tickets, Tue, May 14, 2024 at 8:00 AM Bringing Pennsylvania's leaders together, with renown speakers, to form a coherent anti-human trafficking strategy for our Commonwealth. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pennsylvania-anti-human-trafficking-conference-tickets-876852006957 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Tracey L. Reed, age 60 of DuBois, PA died Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at her home. Born on September 18, 1963 in DuBois, PA, she was the daughter of the late James and Annie (Sauer) Allen. On August 24, 1985 she married Ronald N. Reed. He survives. Tracey was a 1981 graduate of the DuBois Area High School. She retired as an aide from the DuBois Area School District after 20 years of service. Tracey loved to grow flowers and loved all animals, especially dogs. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. Along with her husband, she is survived by her children (James R. Reed and Joshua N. Reed, both of DuBois, PA), one brother (James Allen of Penfield, PA), and one sister (Ethel Gulvas and her husband Paul of DuBois, PA). Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 4 - 6 PM at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. A private funeral service will be held. Memorial donations may be made to First Class Children's Foundation at www.firstclasschildrensfoundation.com Online condolences can be sent to https://www.baronickfuneralhome.com/condolence

Who's in the News ▫️Seven arrested, 5 wanted, human trafficking victim found in four-month joint operation PERRY, Ga. - Multiple arrests have been made in a human trafficking operation investigation in Georgia. Throughout the investigation, suspects from multiple counties including Houston, Bibb, and Crawford as well as Fulton and Dekalb Counties were identified and arrested on charges of possessing fraudulent driver's licenses, social security cards, passports, and other documents. Also identified and recovered were multiple high-end cars, cash, and other assets, including checks and money orders totaling over one million dollars. Jonathan Baez (B/M 34) Fulton County, Georgia originally from New York was arrested and charged with Human Trafficking, Pimping, and Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. Baez has outstanding warrants in New York for Parole Violation, Attempted Murder and Assault with a firearm. Six others are charged with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. The people below have active warrants, and investigators ask if anyone with information on their whereabouts contacts Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-682-7463. Tramacy Campbell (B/F 30) Macon, Georgia; J Quan Davis (B/M 25) Macon, Georgia; Iymaani Taylor (B/F 34) Macon, Georgia; Charles Floyd (W/M 65) Macon, Georgia; Stacy Turner (W/F 38) Macon, Georgia are all charged with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. This case is still under investigation and more charges and arrests are expected. Please contact Detective Kim Morton at 478-988-2825 or Kimberly.Morton@perry-ga.gov if you have any information pertaining to this investigation. » https://www.41nbc.com/multiple-arrested-in-georgia-fraud-and-human-trafficking-investigation/ (VIDEO) » https://www.13wmaz.com/article/news/local/seven-arrested-joint-four-month-operation-faked-documentshuman-trafficking/93-994df421-4abb-4d4f-89e0-26c232e7bff2 (VIDEO) » https://wgxa.tv/news/local/multiple-arrests-made-in-georgia-fraud-and-human-trafficking-operation » ▫️Six Sex Offenders Arrested During Operation Jessica The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office along with the US Marshals, Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigations, State and Federal Probation conducted Operation Jessica & contacted registered sex offenders to insure they’re in compliance with sex offender registry laws. During this event, 224 compliance checks were completed. Ten sex offenders were found to be out of compliance and six were arrested. https://www.thecheyennepost.com/news/six-sex-offenders-arrested-during-operation-jessica/article_cb972fb0-f112-11ee-b7fb-3bfa3c1d965a.html ▫️Several Houston-area suspects arrested in operation against online child predators, one suicide Multiple men in the Houston-Galveston area have been arrested after using the internet to have inappropriate relationships with minors. Those arrested were 26-year-old Pedro Camarena, 24-year-old Bryan Huber, 46-year-old Agustin Sosa, and 32-year-old Francisco Aguilar. They were all charged with online solicitation of a minor sexual conduct. The operation also resulted in six pending arrest warrants for individuals being charged with online solicitation of a minor. Another suspect in the operation, 30-year-old Alfred Tornero, was also charged with online solicitation of a minor. But when GCSO deputies attempted to arrest Tornero on Wednesday, March 27, Tornero reportedly committed suicide inside his vehicle, deputies said. The Texas Rangers are investigating the incident. https://cw39.com/news/local/several-houston-area-suspects-arrested-in-operation-against-online-child-predators/ ▫️Gainesville couple plead guilty to trafficking a child from Texas, producing child porn GAINESVILLE, Fla. - A couple is pleading guilty to trafficking a child from Texas to Gainesville, Fla. to produce child pornography. Timothy Frederick Murphy-Johnson, 40, of Gainesville, Florida, and Olivia Ashford Henn, 21, of Orlando, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography. Murphy-Johnson also pleaded guilty to transporting a child for the purpose of sexual abuse. On July 25, 2023, investigators searching for the missing child executed a search warrant on the Gainesville home and rescued the child. Murphy-Johnson and Hunn were arrested. https://www.wcjb.com/2024/04/02/gainesville-couple-plead-guilty-trafficking-child-texas-producing-child-porn/ ▫️Basketball coach arrested for having sex with students CORNELIUS, N.C. — A former high school basketball coach was arrested in Mecklenburg County for sex crimes with two students in Ohio. Jason Dawson, 35, was arrested on Monday in Cornelius for out-of-state charges of sexual battery with a minor and pandering sexually oriented matter with a minor. Dawson was a girls basketball coach at Christ the King Catholic High School. » https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/crime/basketball-coach-arrested-for-child-sex-crimes-in-ohio/275-66d02bd8-c853-4d5c-9bfe-57eb1b083fdc (VIDEO) » https://www.whio.com/news/local/former-ohio-high-school-girls-basketball-coach-arrested-accused-having-sex-with-student/CKZSMM6ICNDKFPSDG3FM6UOXCY/ ▫️Former West Fargo principal now faces federal child porn, sexual misconduct charges FARGO – A former West Fargo school principal who was charged in state court with child pornography and sexual misconduct with a child is now facing similar federal charges. David George, 39, is accused of taking an underage boy out of state to have sex in October of 2022. George is also charged federally with receiving, possessing, and distributing child pornography between January 2020 and August 2023. At least one of the children involved in the child pornography was around five years old. https://kfgo.com/2024/03/13/former-west-fargo-principal-now-faces-federal-child-porn-sexual-misconduct-charges/ ▫️Convicted sex offender takes plea deal after abusing teens in Henderson YORK, Neb. - The Henderson man accused of sexually assaulting two children last year has taken a plea deal, avoiding a trial and the potential of decades spent behind bars. A plea hearing was held for 33-year-old Kody Jansa on Tuesday. He was charged with eight counts, ranging between first-degree sexual assault of a child, sex trafficking of a minor and strangulation. https://www.ksnblocal4.com/2024/04/02/convicted-sex-offender-takes-plea-deal-after-abusing-teens-henderson/ NKY man accused of sexually abusing underage girls facing charges in different county NEWPORT, Ky. - Sylvanus McBride, who was accused of sexually abusing underage girls and recording it in Kenton County, is accused of similar crimes in Campbell County. He’s facing 15 counts of sexual abuse, sodomy and rape. McBride is being held on a $500,000 bond in Kenton County. According to Kenton County Commonwealth Attorney Rob Sanders, McBride was arrested in January 2023. Sanders called McBride, “the worst kind of child predator.” Anyone who is aware of other potential victims - or is a victim themselves - to contact the Campbell County Police Department at 859-547-3100. https://www.fox19.com/2024/04/03/nky-man-accused-sexually-abusing-underage-girls-facing-charges-different-county/ ▫️Fort Wayne police arrest man accused of sexual abuse, getting teen pregnant FORT WAYNE, Ind. - Fort Wayne police arrested a man accused of sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl and getting her pregnant. Moises Briones, Jr., 22, was arrested just before 8:30 a.m. Monday on Dunkelberg Road. He's charged with sexual misconduct with a minor. https://www.wfft.com/news/crime/fort-wayne-police-arrest-man-accused-of-sexual-abuse-getting-teen-pregnant/article_c1e0e926-f120-11ee-85cb-6b989ca957df.html ▫️Men held on migrant kidnapping charges in Juarez EL PASO, Texas – Police in Juarez, Mexico, have arrested three men and a minor in connection with the alleged kidnapping of several Central American migrants a few blocks from the Rio Grande. Residents early Tuesday called police to the Felipe Angeles neighborhood in north Juarez after allegedly hearing screams coming from inside a house. Officers who arrived at the home also heard the screams and forced their way in; they found six Guatemalan nationals and a Honduran who said they were being held there against their will, the Municipal Public Safety Secretary said in a statement. Police searched the neighborhood and arrested four suspects identified by the Central Americans as their captors. The men only identified by police as Gustavo M.G., 21; Noe R.L., 20; Jerson P.R., 24; and a 15-year-old boy were taken into custody. According to the municipal police, the Central Americans said they were migrants on their way to the United States and forced them into the home at gunpoint. The suspects allegedly told them to call relatives in the U.S. to pay an undisclosed ransom for their release. https://www.borderreport.com/regions/mexico/men-held-on-migrant-kidnapping-charges/ ▫️Illinois Trans-Identified Male Pleads Guilty After Issuing Disturbing School Shooting, Child Rape Threats A trans-identified male in Illinois who threatened to commit a school shooting and rape children has pleaded guilty to one count of Interstate Communication with a Threat to Injure. Alexia Willie, also known as Jason Lee Willie, was arrested on August 14 after going on extended rants listing local children as targets. As previously reported by Reduxx, Willie was arrested in Perry County, Illinois, after the Springfield-area FBI intercepted a live-stream on social media they deemed “suspicious.” https://reduxx.info/illinois-trans-identified-male-pleads-guilty-after-issuing-disturbing-school-shooting-child-rape-threats/ ▫️Violent Suspect Arrested After Inflicting Months of Torture On Monday, April 1, 2024, HCSO deputies were dispatched to a Mobil gas station in Seffner after a caller reported an injured female had just escaped from a van and needed help. The victim, who had been panhandling in the area of Hillsborough Avenue and Habana Avenue since January 2024, met the suspect, Walter Medina, 48, during that time. Initially providing the victim with food and narcotics, Medina actions turned violent as he subjected her to months of relentless physical abuse and captivity. The victim's opportunity for escape arose when Medina briefly left her unattended at Walgreens. When deputies arrived they noted the victim sustained numerous injuries to her face and body and she was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. HCSO detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Medina for the following charges: Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Kidnapping, Armed False Imprisonment, Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm, Tampering with a Witness, and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Medina was arrested following a pursuit with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, the Lakeland Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol on April 2, 2024. https://teamhcso.com/News/PressRelease/f36cd42f-0953-47bc-895a-03b5dcc8745c/en-US ▫️Man Charged With Sexual Assaults Of Young Girl By Enfield Police ENFIELD, CT — A man already in custody since early March on charges of sexually assaulting a young girl in Manchester was served with additional charges Thursday by Enfield police during a court appearance. Todd Allard, 41, was initially arrested March 6 by Manchester police and held on $500,000 bond on charges of first-degree sexual assault, risk of injury to a child and illegal sexual contact with a victim under age 13. A warrant obtained by Enfield police outlined three counts each of the same charges, with an additional bond of $500,000, later reduced to $250,000. Allard remains in custody at the Garner Correctional Institution in Newtown, according to Department of Correction records. He is slated to return to court April 16. According to a heavily-redacted affidavit from Enfield police supporting Allard's arrest, he admitted he began inappropriately touching the girl when she was about two years old. https://patch.com/connecticut/enfield/man-charged-sexual-assaults-young-girl-enfield-police ▫️2 Reno men arrested in human trafficking case involving children Two Reno men were among six people arrested in Stateline during an operation targeting human trafficking by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office and Reno Police Department's HEAT Team. Richard Brieger, 25, of Reno was arrested on charges of attempted luring of a child under 16; attempted statutory sexual seduction; and attempted child abuse. Edward Lin, 44, Walnut Creek, California: Attempted statutory sexual seduction; attempted solicitation of a minor 14 or older; and attempted child abuse » https://www.rgj.com/story/news/crime/2024/04/02/reno-men-arrested-human-trafficking-case-stateline-nevada/73178961007/ » https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/crime/four-face-felonies-in-sex-trafficking-sting/ ▫️'We are just getting started': The fight against child exploitation in Northeast Florida Northeast Florida law enforcement officers and local leaders recently announced the first-year findings of the Northeast Florida Inter-Agency Child Exploitation and Persons Trafficking Task Force (NEFL INTERCEPT). The NEFL INTERCEPT is public/private partnership working at local, state and federal levels. Agencies involved include Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville; the sheriffs' offices of St. Johns; Clay; Putnam; Nassau; and Duval counties; the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE); and nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits, such as Operation Light Shine and the Tim Tebow Foundation, provide resources to NEFL INTERCEPT Task Force members fighting human trafficking and child exploitation. In 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children issued 663 cyber-tips leading NEFL INTERCEPT Task Force members to examine 224 electronic devices (6.3 million images and videos) revealing 75,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse. Thirty-one arrests were made along with 16 indictments and 21 convictions, with 18 of those convicted sentenced to a total of 148 years in prison, including one life sentence. The INTERCEPT Task Force also assisted regional law enforcement agencies during proactive online chat operations between children. This led to 53 arrests. “There is more work to be done, and we are just getting started,” said Sheriff Hardwick. https://www.staugustine.com/story/news/crime/2024/04/02/ne-florida-fights-child-exploitation-heres-how-the-battle-is-going/73180886007/ ▫️Progreso CBP officers apprehend man wanted on sexual assault of a child warrant Emilio Torres Salas, 66, a Mexican citizen, was the subject of an outstanding felony arrest warrant for sexual assault of a child-continuous sexual abuse of a minor issued by Wood County Sheriff’s Office in Quitman, Texas. https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/progreso-cbp-officers-apprehend-man-wanted-sexual-assault-child ▫️Man Charged With Human Trafficking In Hopkinsville Hopkinsville Police say Cortez Lewis Jr. was actively luring and recruiting juveniles to engage in sexual acts with adults. He was arrested and charged with human trafficking and procuring or promoting the use of minors by electronic means. Police say since August 2023 they’ve received numerous tips about Internet crimes committed against children and charged several people. » https://www.wkdzradio.com/2024/04/02/man-charged-with-human-trafficking-in-hopkinsville-2/news-edge/ » https://whopam.com/2024/04/02/hopkinsville-man-charged-with-human-trafficking/ ▫️Two men launch $5M lawsuits against local school board for alleged historical sexual abuse Both men suing Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board for abuse they allegedly endured as elementary students in the 1980s at hands of principal, vice-principal The local English Catholic school board is being sued by two men who each claim they were sexually assaulted as children in the 1980s by staff at two different elementary schools in Sault Ste. Marie. The Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board (HSCDSB) is named as the defendant in both civil lawsuits, with each plaintiff seeking $5 million in damages. » https://www.elliotlaketoday.com/local-news/two-men-launch-5m-lawsuits-against-local-school-board-for-alleged-historical-sexual-abuse-8534412 » https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/04/two-men-launch-5m-lawsuits-against-local-school-board-for-alleged-historical-sexual-abuse/ ▫️America’s dark underbelly: Rep. Owens tackles child trafficking Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, said he views child trafficking as “the most evil thing,” and another form of slavery. “Americans need to know that what’s going on in the dark, is the most evil thing that we can ever think of — children being abused and just tossed away like trash — and we’re allowing that to happen,” said Owens, who represents Utah’s 4th District. https://www.deseret.com/politics/2024/04/02/anti-child-trafficking-legislature-rep-bugress-owens/ ▫️How to help if you suspect someone is being trafficked Investigator Toby Braun says now more than ever, parents and guardians need to be aware of signs that could show indications of human trafficking. “It’s always important to contact law enforcement, whether you’re at an event and you run into a situation where you are suspecting trafficking, you might be at an airport, public transportation is huge for human trafficking,” Braun said. “If you see law enforcement, contact them there, otherwise call 911.” https://www.wifr.com/2024/04/02/how-help-if-you-suspect-someone-is-being-trafficked/ (VIDEO) ▫️Connecting Our Community to Stop Human Trafficking - April 16, 2024 at 6:30pm - 8:00pm - Avalon Theatre, Easton, MD Please join us to learn about human trafficking, its presence in our community, how to recognize the red flags, the resources available to survivors, and state initiatives to end trafficking. https://mcasa.org/events/event/connecting-our-community-to-stop-human-trafficking ▫️Expose the Hidden Dangers of Human Trafficking Event in Ormond Beach - April 18, 2024 from 6-8 pm - Calvary - 1687 W. Granada in Ormond Beach Daytona Dream Center is partnering with Freedom 7 Human Trafficking Task Force, United Abolitionists, Paving the Way Foundation, and Daytona Beach Police Department to host a Human Trafficking Awareness Community Night to equip and empower students, parents and teachers across our county in prevention, intervention, and awareness. We know the power of the internet and how much time our children and students spend on their phones and online. Apps, social media traps, and more will be discussed. Local law enforcement will provide insight on what's happening. https://www.volusiacountymoms.com/2024/04/expose-the-hidden-dangers-of-human-trafficking-event-in-ormond-beach.html ▫️Summit, training on human trafficking set for next week Local organizers hope that a summit and two days of training can help educate people about the realities of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. “Pushes and Pulls: Combating abuse, neglect, exploitation and trafficking” will take place from April 10 to 12, at the Roswell Convention Center, 912 North Main St. https://www.rdrnews.com/news/local/summit-training-on-human-trafficking-set-for-next-week/article_7372ab6e-f14b-11ee-beee-370fd94ea7f7.html _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Tommy James, 76 years old, performed at our sail away party for Flower Power Cruise 2024. In this video you will see portions of “Draggin’ the Line,” “Crystal Blue Persuasion,” “Crimson and Clover,” “Hanky Panky,” "I Think We’re Alone Now,” and “Mony Mony.” The Flower Power Cruise happens every year (except 2020). This was our first time to attend and wish we had known about it years ago. It’s more like a 7-day music festival than a cruise.

Sisters Share Breast Cancer Diagnosis (Caption) Sisters Abby Danko and Kelly Williamson, who share a breast cancer diagnosis, credit Dr. Kelley Smith with their recovery. Cancer is a disease that does not play fairly - especially breast cancer which is the most common type diagnosed among women in the U.S. In many instances, breast cancer creeps into a person's life when they are raising their family or at the pinnacle of their career when they do not have time for an illness to slow them down. Just ask Abby Danko, a 40-year-old mother of three from Morrisdale, Pennsylvania, whose breast cancer journey began three years ago. In 2021, when I went for my annual gynecological visit, I was experiencing some irregular bleeding," she explained. "My doctor ordered some tests including a mammogram which detected a spot on my chest. A second mammogram was performed which also revealed something that required attention." She continued, "I had been seeing my Penn Highlands Healthcare gynecologists since I had my first child, and he was 12 at the time, so I trusted their recommendation. I was referred to Dr. Kelley Smith, and since I heard good things about her in the community, I scheduled an appointment." Abby met with Dr. Smith, a board-certified general surgeon at Penn Highlands DuBois, who provides a comprehensive range of surgical procedures and specializes in women's health and genetic testing for hereditary cancers. The tumor was on Abby's chest wall. When Dr. Smith performed a biopsy, it was malignant and the cancer was at Stage 0 DCIS. "There was a history of breast cancer in my family and I knew that if I ever received that diagnosis I would have a double mastectomy," she explained. Dr. Smith performed the surgery on July 29, 2021. However, an underlying autoimmune disease that Abby had been living with for years, delayed her healing and necessitated treatment at a national health system outside of Pennsylvania. "In terms of healthcare, a nationally known hospital is not always better," Abby said. "I would stay with Dr. Smith and Penn Highlands DuBois. She always cared and emphasized that breasts do not define you as a woman." "I had the best care from Penn Highlands Healthcare and a top-notch doctor. You do not need to go outside of a small town to experience what is in our backyard." In fact, in 2023, when Abby's sister, Kelly Williamson, learned she had breast cancer, there was no question as to who would provide her care - Dr. Kelley Smith. "Our mother, our younger sister and I had the genetic testing conducted to identify whether we carry the breast cancer gene. Our mother and sister tested positive for the BARD-1 gene, but I do not have the gene," reported Kelly. "However, since some of the results showed that there could be a higher risk of me contracting breast cancer over my lifetime, it was advised that I be tested more often - every six months." Kelly's genetic testing occurred in August 2022 when she was 41-years old; that's the time that most women begin having their first mammograms. Six months later, she had a breast MRI which did not indicate any cancer. Then, six months later, in July 2023, she had a mammogram and ultrasound which showed calcium deposits in her breast. A subsequent biopsy revealed that she had Stage 0 DCIS breast cancer - which was the exact diagnosis as Abby. Dr. Smith presented her with two options - a lumpectomy with radiation or a mastectomy. Kelly chose to see a plastic surgeon for reconstruction options and to be able to have joint surgery. "I chose the double mastectomy because I did not want to leave anything to chance," Kelly said. On October 23, 2023, Kelly had a double mastectomy. She recovered quickly in just six weeks and is looking forward to having silicone implants this spring. Kelly and Abby are fortunate to live within 10 minutes of each other and their extended family who has provided support throughout their cancer journey. The Williamson family also has received an outpouring of support from the community. "My husband, Davey, is the athletic director for the West Branch Area School District", said Kelly, who is a preschool teacher. "My two sisters organized a basket raffle and 50/50 to benefit our family during the annual Pink Out game at a varsity football game last fall. The girls' volleyball and soccer teams held benefits for our family as well during their annual Pink Out games. I cannot begin to describe the outpouring of love and support we received from everyone." Kelly also credits Dr. Kelley Smith and her physician assistant, Melissa Hilliard, with her recovery. "When Melissa gave me the results of my biopsy in person, she gave me a hug and we cried together," Kelly said. "Dr. Smith is amazing! They are both tremendous people. I felt in control and that they respected and supported my decisions." Summary While approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, a woman's individual risk varies by age and race/ethnicity, as well as family, medical, and reproductive history. In addition, not all masses are cancerous. Penn Highlands Healthcare screens its patients to identify those who are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. "Patients are stratified for risk and a plan will be made for screening which may include mammogram, ultrasounds or MRI. This may also include more frequent examinations," Dr. Smith explained. As a surgeon with more than 25 years of breast health experience, Dr. Smith follows a multidisciplinary approach to care. She and Melissa Hilliard, PA-C, CGRA, who is cancer genetics and risk assessment certified by the National Consortium of Breast Cancer Centers, screen patients to help identify their breast cancer risk. They work closely with medical imaging as well as two plastic surgeons in the delivery of high-quality patient care. "Women who come to Penn Highlands Healthcare for breast care receive innovative therapies delivered by knowledgeable and skilled professionals using advanced technology," said Dr. Smith.

For those who don’t know how an eclipse works.

This video wins the internet today

Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele says every single question of her Biden interview was scripted ...

Kim Evelyn Pifer, age 69 of DuBois, PA died Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at her home, surrounded by her family, after a 9-year battle with breast cancer. Born on April 22, 1954 in DuBois, PA, she was the daughter of the late William P. and Evelyn I. (Paydock) Boyer. On July 28, 1973 she married her husband of 50 years, Lance J. Hoover-Pifer. He survives. Kim was a graduate of DuBois Area High School and Salem College in Salem, West Virginia, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She was a registered nurse for 42 years. Kim retired from the office of Dr. Gary Ott in the Healthy Beginnings Program. Previous to that she worked for 38 years in maternity at the DuBois Regional Medical Center. She was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church. Kim enjoyed crafts, was an animal lover and a motorcycle enthusiast. She rode across the country twice, and saw 44 states on the back of a motorcycle with her husband Lance. Above all, Kim loved her children and adored her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. Along with her husband, Kim is survived by her children (Cori Pifer and Raymond Bolling of DuBois, PA, and Ian Pifer and his wife Rachael of Midlothian, VA), five grandchildren (Christian, Kailia, Nathan, Beatrice and Penelope), one great grandchild (Melody), and one sister (Lindsay Ford). Visitation will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024 from 4- 6 PM and Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 10 AM – 12 PM at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. A private funeral service will be held with Msgr. Richard Siefer officiating. Burial will take place in Morningside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Hahne Cancer Center, 100 Hospital Avenue, DuBois, PA 15801 and/or The Anna Shelter, 1555 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511. Online condolences can be made to http://www.baronickfuneralhome.com/condolence

Daniel A. Young, age 57 of Curwensville, PA, formerly of DuBois, PA died Monday, April 1, 2024 at Ridgeview Elder Care. Born on May 21, 1966 in Garden Grove, CA, he was the son of the late Charles and Donna (Snyder) Young. He was a 1984 graduate of Jeff Tech. Dan had worked at Eat N’ Park in the bakery. He enjoyed NASCAR, doing ceramics, and baking. He was also very actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America Bucktail Council. He is survived by one brother (Douglas Young and his wife Christine of DuBois, PA).) There will be no public visitation and services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to Boy Scouts of America Bucktail Council, 209 First Street, DuBois, PA 15801. The Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be sent to http://www.baronickfuneralhome.com/condolence

Free Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Offered by Penn Highlands DuBois and Penn Highlands Life’s Journey OB/GYN (April 2, 2024, DuBois, Pennsylvania) – Every woman should be concerned about breast and cervical cancer. In the U.S., one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. In addition, if every woman would receive adequate health care, almost none would die from cervical cancer. When these cancers are detected through screenings in their earlier stages, the outcomes can be more positive. Breast Care Services at Penn Highlands DuBois and Penn Highlands Life’s Journey OB/GYN are conducting a free breast and cervical screening to help promote women’s health and breast cancer awareness. The event will be held on Monday, April 22, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Imaging Services Suite in the Penn Highlands DuBois Center of Excellence located at 123 Hospital Ave., DuBois, Pennsylvania. “Breast and cervical cancer often have no warning signs. Our free screenings are a wonderful opportunity to detect abnormalities before symptoms are present,” said Ashley Parsons, MSN, FNP, NP-C, IBCLC, NCMP, a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner at Penn Highlands Life’s Journey OB/GYN. “When breast and cervical cancer are found earlier, treatment has better results since the size of a tumor may be smaller and the cancer is less likely to have spread.” A free clinical breast exam, mammogram, pelvic exam and pap smear are available to women with or without insurance who meet eligibility requirements. To schedule an appointment, call 888-920-4636. For more information, contact Danielle Assalone, RN, BSN, at 814-371-1900.

Diagnosing and Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder A toddler does not respond to their name. The child avoids eye contact. They do not talk. These could be signs that the child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, behave, learn and interact with others. April is National Autism Acceptance Month, a great time to learn more about ASD. What is ASD and what are the symptoms? ASD is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships and self-regulation. Autism is referred to as a “spectrum” disorder due to the extensive range of symptom types and severities that individuals may experience. The range and severity of symptoms can differ widely. Likewise, the abilities of people with ASD can vary significantly. Common characteristics include: · Lack of response to normal stimuli such as verbal or visual cues · Delayed movement, language and/or cognitive skills · Difficulty understanding or showing emotions · Avoidance of eye contact · Restricted or repetitive behaviors, movements or phrases · Co-occurring conditions including but not limited to mental health illness, gastrointestinal issues, seizure disorders and more “While there is no known single cause for autism, it is widely accepted that it is caused by differences in brain structure or genetic factors,” explained Rachael Conner, M.ED, Director of Autism Services at Penn Highlands Connellsville Regional Center for Autism in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. “Early diagnosis and intervention can greatly support a person on the spectrum with the resources needed to live to their full potential.” How is ASD diagnosed? It can be difficult to diagnose ASD because unlike other disorders, there is not a medical test, such as a CT scan or blood test that can be used to provide a diagnosis. Medical professionals review the child’s developmental history and behaviors to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be identified as early as 18 months of age, diagnosis at age 2 or older can be considered reliable. It is important to note that some people are not diagnosed until they are much older – even adults – which means that they may not receive the early help and therapies they need. Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls. Its prevalence is not affected by race, region, or socio-economic status. Since autism was first diagnosed in the U.S. the incidence has climbed to an alarming one in 36 children in the U.S. How is ASD treated? There is no cure for ASD, though with early intervention and treatment, the diverse symptoms can be greatly improved. Current treatments seek to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. There is no “one-size-fits-all treatment, but recommended therapies include Applied Behavioral Analysis, which encourages desired behaviors and discourages undesired behaviors; speech therapy; and sensory integration therapy. Each person with ASD has their own strengths and weaknesses and should be treated on an individual basis to address their specific needs. Common therapies include: · Speech-language therapy · Occupational therapy · Physical therapy · Vision/orientation and mobility · Hearing therapy · Music therapy · Dog therapy “It is important that all therapy goals are individualized in order to maximize the person’s abilities,” explained Rachael. Treatments can be given in education, health, community or home settings, or a combination of settings. It is important that providers communicate with each other and the person with ASD and their family to ensure that treatment goals and progress are meeting expectations. Penn Highlands Healthcare provides the Penn Highlands Connellsville Regional Center for Autism (PHCRCA), which is affiliated with Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital’s Center for Autism. PHCRCA provides families and children in Southwestern Pennsylvania with advanced educational and behavioral treatment. The program model has shown sterling documented positive outcomes in educational, medical and behavioral programming. For more information, visit www.phhealthcare.org/autismcenter.

Groove is in the Heart & Power of Love > Deee-Lite

Uh-oh!! > in Centre County, Pennsylvania. > Vicki Holderman Blazer

Who's in the News? ▫️Video shows California police fatally shooting teenager who was reported kidnapped Newly released law enforcement footage captures the moment California police fatally shot an unarmed 15-year-old girl who was a reported kidnapping victim. On 27 September 2022, San Bernardino county sheriff’s deputies were searching for Savannah Graziano, who was feared abducted by her father Anthony Graziano after he had fatally shot her mother the day before. » https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/01/california-police-video-shooting-15-year-old-girl-savannah-graziano » ▫️Oklahoma Operation Clean Sweep II: U.S. Attorney’s Office Launches Second Operation Aimed at Prosecuting Child Predators, 11 arrested TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson announced the launch of Operation Clean Sweep II. This operation is aimed at holding accountable child predators throughout the Northern District of Oklahoma. Operation Clean Sweep II is partnered with the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force (TACETT) created by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). More than 40 federal, state, and tribal law enforcement committed resources to help prevent, identify, investigate and ultimately prosecute child exploitation. https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndok/pr/us-attorneys-office-launches-second-operation-aimed-prosecuting-child-predators ▫️Six arrested in undercover operation targeting human trafficking in Stateline area at Lake Tahoe DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) has announced the arrests of six suspects after an undercover operation targeting human trafficking in the Stateline, Nevada area. The coordinated operation was conducted by members of the DCSO investigations division, DCSO street enforcement team, and the Reno Police Department HEAT team (Human Exploitation and Trafficking). Five were arrested on various charges on Friday, March 30, followed by another arrest on Saturday, March 31. Two South Lake Tahoe men were arrested on misdemeanor charges including engaging/solicitation of prostitution and resisting arrest. If you have any information about this case, contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at (775) 782-9905. » https://southtahoenow.com/story/04/01/2024/six-arrested-undercover-operation-targeting-human-trafficking-stateline-area-lake-t » https://www.2news.com/news/douglas-county-sheriffs-office-arrests-six-in-human-trafficking-operation/article_28ba9988-f06f-11ee-8532-5fff0ce81eb5.html ▫️Son of former Seattle mayor arrested for child pornography Police say they arrested 29-year-old Jack Francis Lynch McGinn after an online tip led them to his home. The investigation started with a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, saying hundreds of child sexual abuse images were distributed. McGinn was arrested Friday morning for possession of depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and dealing in depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/man-arrested-sexual-exploitation-of-child ▫️Columbus woman allegedly sex trafficked female victim to gang members OPELIKA, Ala. – A Columbus woman is facing allegations of human trafficking after her arrest by Opelika Police. According to investigators, Marlaciea Matthews, 23, was forcing a woman to have sex for money. Deazaiah Johnson, 18, was also arrested for obstructing the investigation by allegedly using a false identity. The victim, who was not charged, told police she was coerced and abused into sex with gang members. The victim told police she had been beaten on multiple occasions by a woman named “Nessa, “ who told the victim to go work for Matthews. The victim said Matthews also threatened to assault her on multiple occasions. Detectives were also informed the victim’s child was in Columbus, Georgia with friends of Matthews. » https://www.wtvm.com/2024/04/02/columbus-woman-charged-with-human-trafficking-appears-lee-co-court/ (VIDEO) » https://www.wrbl.com/news/columbus-woman-allegedly-sex-trafficked-female-victim-to-gang-members/ ▫️Man charged for allegedly raping child in Northumberland County Coal Township, Pa. — A 64-year-old Milton man was charged for allegedly raping a 10-year-old girl in Coal Township. William C. Dunkle faces felony rape and statutory sexual assault charges for the alleged incidents that occurred between Nov. 24 and Dec. 24 at a Coal Township home. Dunkle was charged with felony counts each of rape, statutory sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault, sexual assault, and indecent assault of a person under 13. https://www.northcentralpa.com/news/crime/man-charged-for-allegedly-raping-child-in-northumberland-county/article_ab716b7c-edf4-11ee-bf4a-3b97b9ef32d9.html ▫️Former kids baseball coach accused of sex abuse now charged in rape of 8-year-old girl One day after a former youth baseball coach was accused of sexually assaulting a teen boy, police charged him in the repeated rapes of an 8-year-old girl. The rapes were discovered March 21, a day after Jeromy Paul Baum, 46, of Halifax in Dauphin County, was arrested in connection with the sexual assault of a 15-year-old boy at the teen’s home, according to police. The incident involving the teen boy occurred March 19 at the teen’s home in Perry County, according to court records. Police arrested Baum outside the boy’s home on March 20. That arrest prompted the mother of a child to whom Baum had access in 2014 to talk to her daughter about sexual violence. https://www.pennlive.com/crime/2024/04/former-kids-baseball-coach-accused-of-sex-abuse-now-charged-in-rape-of-8-year-old-girl.html ▫️Pittsburgh man arrested in Ohio human trafficking task force investigation, police say A Pittsburgh man was arrested in a human trafficking investigation in Ohio. According to the East Palestine Police Department, Wesley Theberge, 29, was arrested Friday during a Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force undercover operation. Upon his arrest, police say they obtained a search warrant for the electronic devices Theberge had with him and found hundreds of images and videos of child pornography. Online court records show he’s charged with pandering obscenity involving a minor, illegal use of a minor in nudity oriented material, engaging in prostitution and possessing criminal tools. » https://www.wtae.com/article/pittsburgh-man-columbiana-county-human-trafficking/60352421 (VIDEO) » https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/pittsburgh-man-arrested-ohio-human-trafficking-task-force-investigation-police-say/MFKXOQOEIJB45KV6I6D6SHVXVQ/ ▫️Man arrested for allegedly molesting 12-year-old girl at Dolphin Mall movie theater SWEETWATER — A man was arrested earlier this week for allegedly molesting a 12-year-old girl at a Miami-Dade movie theater. Sweetwater Police arrested 22-year-old Omar Montalvo on one count of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child 12-16 years old along with communicating with a minor in and out of a state to travel and meet. » https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/man-arrested-for-allegedly-molesting-12-year-old-girl-at-dolphin-mall-movie-theater/ » ▫️Sheriffs tout arrests by sex trafficking task force Local law enforcement officers have made 31 arrests for child exploitation and human trafficking since a coalition of five Northeast Florida law enforcement agencies began working together last year to better combat sex crimes. Since the Intercept Task Force banded together in March 2023, local agencies have initiated hundreds of investigations and aided in arrests they say wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration. The group of law enforcement agencies said they have received 663 tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, initiated 583 investigations and served 85 search warrants across North Florida in cases involving the trafficking or exploitation of children. In addition, 18 offenders have been sentenced to roughly 150 years in prison. https://jaxtoday.org/2024/04/01/sheriffs-tout-arrests-by-sex-trafficking-task-force/ ▫️Ohio man accused of child sex trafficking arrested in Grant County MARION, Ind. — An Ohio man was arrested in Grant County after police say he arranged meetings to pick up children for sexual exploitation. Dennis James Roth, 64, was arrested on three counts of conspiracy to commit promotions of child sex trafficking, three counts of attempted child molesting, and three counts of child solicitation, according to a release on Monday. Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call from Predator Catchers Incorporated on Saturday reporting that Roth was traveling to Marion, Indiana from Ohio “in what he believed was a prearranged meeting to pick up children under the age of 14 for sexual exploitation.” » https://www.wishtv.com/news/ohio-man-accused-of-child-sex-trafficking-arrested-in-grant-county/ » https://wktn.com/ada-man-charged-with-multiple-sex-related-charges-involving-underage-children ▫️New Jersey wrestling coach and state champion Alec Donovan, 26, is jailed for distributing child sex abuse images of boys as young as eight years old A New Jersey youth wrestling coach and former state champion who made headlines for becoming the NCAA’s first openly gay college wrestler has been sentenced to more than seven years in a case involving images of children. Alec Donovan, 26, of Brick, was sentenced Thursday in federal court in Trenton to 87 months in prison on a previous guilty plea to a charge related to distributing images of child sexual abuse, the U.S. attorney’s office said Friday. Prosecutors alleged that during the first four months of 2021, Donovan used a web-based messaging application to send three videos and receive two videos containing images of child sexual abuse involving pre-pubescent children. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13257207/New-Jersey-wrestling-coach-jailed-child-sex-abuse-pictures.html ▫️Child predator suspect shot by deputies The Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team (SIIR) is investigating the SWAT stand-off that led to a suspect being killed by Spokane County deputies on Friday evening at Deer Park. This shooting followed 5 other suspects in Spokane County killed in 2024 after law enforcement shot them. https://www.khq.com/news/child-predator-suspect-shot-by-deputies-5-suspects-killed-by-officers-in-2024/video_c3cd8e6a-eeff-11ee-a4ce-d7937a88aeab.html (VIDEO) ▫️Personal Trainer Keith Dudley Arrested for Sexual Assault of Moorpark High School Student A local personal trainer who has worked at various area schools was arrested by Oxnard police in connection with the sexual assault of a Moorpark High School student.Keith Dudley, 41, of Oxnard was identified as the suspect and taken into custody by the city Police Department’s Family Protection Unit. Dudley is accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old Moorpark High School student. Dudley was booked on charges of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor at the Ventura County Main jail. https://www.dlawgroup.com/personal-trainer-keith-dudley-arrested-sexual-assault/ ▫️Cornelius coach arrested, accused of sex crimes against children in Ohio A Cornelius coach was arrested Monday for sex crimes against juveniles in Ohio. According to court documents, Jason Dawson was charged with pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor and sexual exploitation of minor-material-film related to a situation in Columbus. https://www.wbtv.com/video/2024/03/30/cornelius-coach-arrested-accused-sex-crimes-against-children-ohio/ ▫️Illegal Alien Facing 9 Counts of Child Sex Crimes Arrested by ICE After Being Released by MA Court U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Boston have arrested an unlawfully present Guatemalan national who has been charged with multiple sex crimes against minor victims in Massachusetts. ICE deportation officers with Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston apprehended the 33-year-old Guatemalan illegal alien on Thursday, March 28, near his residence in Lynn, Mass. “This unlawfully present Guatemalan national has been charged with sex crimes against Massachusetts children,” said ERO Boston Field Office Director Todd Lyons. “His very presence in our community represents a dire threat to our residents.” » https://www.themainewire.com/2024/04/illegal-alien-facing-9-counts-of-child-sex-crimes-arrested-by-ice-after-being-released-by-ma-court/ » https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-apprehends-unlawfully-present-guatemalan-national-charged-child-sex-crimes ▫️EPD: Man arrested after kidnapping child at Walmart; child is safe EVANSVILLE — A man police described as a fentanyl dealer allegedly kidnapped a child in Evansville Saturday evening, leading officers on a chase that ended when officers said they safely rescued the child while holding her captor at gunpoint. Early Sunday morning, officers booked the accused kidnapper, 31-year-old Patrick Wayne Garrett, at the Vanderburgh County jail. » https://www.courierpress.com/story/news/local/2024/04/01/evansville-man-stole-minivan-abducted-child-from-evansville-walmart-epd-crime-police-indiana/73162795007/ » ▫️Mom who tried to kill daughter's alleged child molester found guilty of murder DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - A mother accused of trying to take the law into her own hands, resulting in the shooting death of a teenager, was convicted of murder and other charges stemming from the March 2020 incident. On March 22, a DeKalb County jury found Danyale Harris, 42, guilty of charges of felony murder, aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. According to the investigation, on March 31, 2020, Harris discovered a video of her daughter, who was 12 years old at the time, involved in a sexual act with a 22-year-old man, later identified as Antonio Harley. https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/mom-who-tried-to-kill-daughters-alleged-child-molester-found-guilty-of-murder ▫️Anthony Coleman, Of Lynn, Charged With Sex Trafficking: Feds A Lynn man has been arrested and charged for allegedly sex trafficking three women who did not have jobs and were struggling with homelessness during the COVID-19 plandemic, officials announced Monday. Anthony Coleman, 34, is charged with three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and one count of transporting a person for purposes of prostitution, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts said in a press release. » https://www.boston.com/news/crime/2024/04/01/lynn-man-charged-after-allegedly-sex-trafficking-3-women-amid-covid-pandemic/ » https://www.boston25news.com/news/local/feds-north-shore-man-facing-sex-trafficking-charges-forced-women-sell-themselves-during-pandemic/G45FFHC6BBC4BIDOLNJTP3B2AM/ » https://dailyvoice.com/massachusetts/essex/anthony-coleman-of-lynn-charged-with-sex-trafficking-feds/ ▫️Mission man sentenced for human trafficking A 30-year-old Mission resident has been sentenced for his role in a conspiracy to transport non U.S. citizens via commercial tractor-trailers, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Daniel Cantu Jr. pleaded guilty Aug. 23, 2022. The organization as a whole is responsible for transporting over 200 aliens from South Texas and further into the United States as part of the conspiracy. U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Cantu to serve a total of 110 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/mission-man-sentenced-for-human-trafficking/article_34821af2-ed59-11ee-ae80-ab8fad4181b0.html ▫️Third Midland church leader being investigated for child sex crimes MIDLAND, Mich. - The individual in question is suspended from all church duties, pending the outcome of the investigation. This isn’t the first Living Word International Church member to be accused of misconduct. A WNEM-TV5 investigation this month revealed two other church leaders are accused of sexual misconduct. On Jan. 4, 2024, in a plea agreement, church elder and volunteer Brandon Saylor, 44, pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child under 13. Six other charges were dropped. Midland County Sheriff Myron Greene confirmed to TV5 that Saylor knew his victims. On Nov. 28, 2023, Rev. James Randolph, 57, was arrested and charged with several criminal sexual conduct felonies. TV5 learned from an interview with a longtime church member that Randolph is the son-in-law of the ministry’s head, Mark Barclay. He is expected to go to trial in Midland County Circuit Court. » https://www.wnem.com/2024/03/29/third-midland-church-leader-being-investigated-child-sex-crimes/ (VIDEO) » https://keyt.com/cnn-regional/2024/03/30/third-midland-church-leader-being-investigated-for-child-sex-crimes/ ▫️Former JSO officer arrest: Child psychologist speaks about trauma to children Action News Jax has obtained Josue Garriga’s arrest warrant, which reveals disturbing new details of the incidents that led up to his arrest. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office had arrested the now former JSO officer on sexual assault charges, Wednesday. The arrest warrant says the 17-year-old victim had almost taken her life after talking on the phone with man later identified to be 34-year-old’s Josue Garriga. It says on March 7th, the mom found her teenage daughter “unconscious on her bed with a note in her hand.” After waking up, the victim admitted to trying to take her own life. “It’s a spiritual assault, as well as a physical assault,” child therapist Dr. Theresa Rulien. https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/former-jso-officer-arrest-child-psychologist-speaks-about-trauma-children/TVRYNQIKNJDTXOJXTHVU4DV7AI/ ▫️Long Beach Man Charged with Transporting 14-Year-Old Arizona Runaway While Intending to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint alleging he traveled with a 14-year-old runaway from Arizona – whom he met in a Reddit internet forum – across state lines to his apartment, where he engaged in criminal sexual activity with her, the Justice Department announced today. Trevon Nathaniel Langstaff, 32, is charged with transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The victim told a friend that she had met a man who harbored runaways and who currently had two other teenagers staying with him. Early Wednesday morning, law enforcement officials visited Langstaff’s Long Beach apartment to locate and rescue the victim. The victim was found hidden in a closet at Langstaff’s apartment, the affidavit alleges. https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/long-beach-man-charged-transporting-14-year-old-arizona-runaway-while-intending-engage ▫️Eagle Pass CBP officers apprehend man wanted on felony warrant for child sex offense Jose Fidel Romero Puente, 53, a lawful permanent U.S. resident, was the subject of an outstanding felony arrest warrant for sex offense against a child-fondling issued by Travis County. https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/eagle-pass-cbp-officers-apprehend-man-wanted-felony-warrant-child-sex ▫️Internet Crimes Against Wyoming Children Surge, Up 60% So Far This Year The number of predators abusing children continues to be on the rise in Wyoming as tips to law enforcement and arrests continue to surge. Chris McDonald, commander of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force for the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, told Cowboy State Daily that he and his team have never been busier. In 2023, arrests were up 45% over the previous year. Last year, the agency fielded 817 tips that yielded 58 arrests. In 2022, McDonald’s crew arrested 40 suspects out of the 783 tips they received. https://cowboystatedaily.com/2024/03/30/internet-crimes-against-wyoming-children-surge-up-60-so-far-this-year/ ▫️Three East Idaho Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Separate Sex Crimes Involving Minor Children On March 26, 2024, Jared Michael Crow, 24, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 257 months in federal prison for coercion and enticement of a minor. Eight minor-aged victims between the ages of 14 and 16 were identified. In a separate case, Shawn Michael Young, 50, of Pocatello was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for possession of child pornography, on March 26, 2024. A total of 4,438 images of child pornography, including prepubescent children, were identified on the phone. In an interview, Young admitted to downloading and viewing images of child pornography. In another separate case, Bradley Allen Pedersen, 41, of Rupert, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor on March 25, 2024. Pedersen repeatedly requested to meet the child for sex. On September 16, 2022, Pedersen traveled to meet the 14-year-old female at a pre-arranged location. Pedersen was arrested when he arrived at the meeting location. https://www.publicnow.com/view/7797551F202B32DBD0A3B5D622A2341447E9B204?1711669603 ▫️Atlantis PD warns of human trafficking scam ATLANTIS, Fla. (CBS12) — The Atlantis Police Department has received reports of a series of scam calls circulating in the agency's name. Scammers reportedly call members of the community using the department's phone number and claim to be officers. The callers purport to work with a "human trafficking task force," and threaten victims with arrest if they don't pay up, the police department reported. In social media posts, the department assures the public that they would never request payment through the phone, nor do they call anyone about arrests warrants, credit card fraud, vehicle liens or jury summons. Anyone who believes they've been targeted by the scam is urged to call the Atlantis Police Department at 561-965-1700 or report the scam at ReportFraud.tfc.gov. https://cbs12.com/news/local/atlantis-pd-warns-of-human-trafficking-scam-caller-fraud-scammer-atlantis-police-department-phone-number-arrest-warrant-credit-card-reportfraud-florida-march-29-2024# ▫️Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders directs Arkansas National Guard to officially deploy 40 guardsmen to aid Texas LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Forty guardsmen with the Arkansas National Guard were deployed on Monday, April 1 to aid the Texas National Guard combat illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and human trafficking at the southern border. » https://www.ktlo.com/2024/04/01/governor-sanders-deploys-40-guardmen-to-southwest-border/ » https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/arkansas-national-guard-deploys-40-guardsmen-to-texas-southern-border/91-91fecea6-e546-49c7-bb44-2f2224145efa ▫️East Texas Human Trafficking Awareness Event March 22, 2024 Bethesda Church hosted this event to educate and inform the community of the sex and drug trafficking issue in East Texas. ▫️State, interagency workgroup take steps to combat human trafficking The Pennsylvania Interagency Human Trafficking Workgroup this week held a human trafficking advocacy day and panel discussion at the state capitol building. Workgroup members were joined by survivors, elected officials, advocates, and law enforcement to discuss issues currently faced in the battle against human trafficking. https://www.timesleader.com/news/1650166/state-interagency-workgroup-take-steps-to-combat-human-trafficking ▫️End Human Trafficking: An Underground New England Community Forum | Wallingford, CT Apr 2, 7:00pm - 8:00pm | The Underground New England's panel discussion on human trafficking. The signs for recognizing a victim, awareness and prevention strategies, the prevalence of trafficking in Connecticut, and what you can do to help. There will be time for Q&A at the end of the presentation. https://wallingford.librarycalendar.com/event/end-human-trafficking-underground-new-england-community-forum-29604 ▫️Peace in Action to Participate in Ramapo College’s Sexual Assault Awareness Symposium Peace in Action, LLC has announced it is a sponsor of Ramapo College’s annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) Symposium Event, which will take place on April 3 from 2 to 4:15pm at the college’s Trustees Pavilion. https://njbmagazine.com/njb-news-now/peace-in-action-to-participate-in-ramapo-colleges-sexual-assault-awareness-symposium/ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _