POTTSVILLE — State police Cpl. David Dupree minced no words while testifying Tuesday in the Schuylkill County Court trial of a Tamaqua man charged with fatally stabbing his wife in November 2017 in front of their home.

“There was blood staining on the sidewalk,” and blood near the bottom of the steps, Dupree testified on the second day of the trial of Robert B. Bailey, who displayed little interest in the numerous photographs of the red-tinged crime scene and the body of Diane M. Bailey.

District Attorney Michael A. O’Pake and Assistant District Attorney McCall Young on Tuesday finished presenting their case to the jury of seven women and five men who will decide Robert Bailey’s fate. The defense will start when the trial, over which Judge John E. Domalakes is presiding, resumes at 9 a.m. today; Assistant Public Defender Kent D. Watkins, Robert Bailey’s lawyer, said Monday in his opening statement that his client will testify.

Robert Bailey, 54, faces charges of first-degree murder, third-degree murder, possessing instrument of crime, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and two counts of aggravated assault. He faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison, which includes no chance of parole under state law, if convicted of first-degree murder.

Tamaqua police alleged that Robert Bailey repeatedly stabbed Diane Bailey, 44, about 7:40 p.m. Nov. 26, 2017, outside their 235 Lafayette St. residence in the borough. Diane Bailey had been preparing to leave the house when her husband knocked her down the steps and stabbed her 27 times, police said.

Diane Bailey’s friends and family cringed, with at least one leaving the courtroom, as Dupree, forensic services unit supervisor for state police at Reading, said her body bore numerous signs of her husband’s attack.

“She had a significant amount of dried blood on her face,” he said. “There was a significant amount of dried blood on her hands.”

Some of that blood had transferred to a telephone pole and a vehicle that were nearby, according to Dupree.

Dupree also emptied several evidence bags to show the blood on each of the Baileys’ clothing.

“On the jacket, there is a significant amount of dried blood,” he said of Diane Bailey’s jacket. Also, her shirt is stiff with blood, while her bra, sneaker and T-shirt also bear the fatal crimson hues, Dupree said.

Another family member left the courtroom as Dupree showed photographs from Diane Bailey’s autopsy, which he attended.

“There are obvious and large injuries to her neck,” plus significant cuts and other injuries to her face and torso, he said.

Dupree also displayed a knife that police allege was the murder weapon and that he said displayed blood stains.

Dr. Michael Johnson, the forensic pathologist with Lehigh Valley Health Network who conducted Diane Bailey’s autopsy, testified the cause of her death was multiple sharp force trauma, and the manner was homicide. Especially critical among at least 27 wounds were ones to her chest and a cut to her jugular vein, he said.

“The jugular ... is vital to keep circulation flowing,” he said. “You need at least some blood flowing.”

When questioned by Watkins, Johnson said there was methamphetamine in Diane Bailey’s system.

Tamaqua Police Chief Henry D. Woods, the prosecuting officer, testified Robert Bailey surprised him by being “extremely calm” when interviewed.

“He said this had been building up for a long time (and) they were arguing more and more,” Woods said.

Furthermore, Robert Bailey thought his wife and daughter were stealing items, he said.

“Did he seem upset about that?” O’Pake asked Woods.

“Yes,” the chief answered.

Woods said Robert Bailey knew exactly what he wanted to do to his wife.

“He said, ‘I didn’t hesitate. I didn’t stop. I didn’t want to’,” the chief said. “ ‘I’d do it again. It felt good’.”

Robert Bailey also made two incriminating statements at other times, according to Woods.

• “I killed my wife. It doesn’t get much worse than that,” when arraigned by Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko, Port Carbon, the morning after the killing.

• “Do you regret your decision?” “No.” “Do you regret killing her?” “No,” in an exchange with a television reporter.

Borough Patrolman Douglas Springer supported the chief’s account of what occurred in the interview.

“He was very calm, spoke clearly,” Springer said of Robert Bailey. “He understood his rights. He said he pulled the knife out and started stabbing her. He was going for her throat.”

“At the end of the interview, did he express any remorse?” O’Pake asked Springer.

“He said he was relieved,” Springer replied.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — The Schuylkill Haven Police Department has a new vehicle that will make it easier to do its job.

The department has a 2019 Ford F-150 pickup truck with a six-cylinder turbo boost it bought through COSTARS, a state contracting program.

The four-wheel drive vehicle, which was paid outright, came from Kovach Ford, Nesquehoning. The cost was $45,000 and included equipment such as lights, transport cage, sirens, printer and laptop and decal. The Schuylkill Haven Police Department Decal work was done at Gear Signs, Schuylkill Haven.

This is the first pickup truck for the department, as it normally orders sport-utility vehicles. The cost for the truck was about $200 more than an SUV, which is also four-wheel drive.

“Every year, we get a new vehicle (if they have the money),” Schuylkill Haven Police Chief Jeffrey J. Walcott said.

He said the truck, which has 468 miles and was delivered about three weeks ago, makes it more convenient for officers while on the job to transport gear and needed items.

For example, shotguns used to be stored in the trunk of their vehicles but can now be kept up front due to more space. The truck also has a pull-out metal tray in the back for better organization and storage. With the SUV, Walcott said, they had to store things on top of each other due to space constraints.

The vehicle also has more leg room for those they transport. Usually, they only transport two offenders but the extra space will provide room for three. The vehicle also can more easily be used on terrain in the area such as Tumbling Run, because it has better suspension and is more suited for off-road use.

“Schuylkill Haven has (more than) 6,000 acres in the Tumbling Run area,” Walcott said.

The vehicle also comes with a backup camera and sensors. The sensors can detect objects near the vehicle. The SUVs had backup cameras but no sensors.

The vehicle replaces a 2016 Ford Explorer, which had between 55,000 and 60,000, miles on it. The Schuylkill Haven Municipal Authority employees will use the 2016 vehicle.

The department has four police vehicles, a 2008 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle, the pickup truck and two Ford SUVs. Walcott said the older vehicles are used more often.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

The Dauphin County man who lay in a creek for some 24 hours after crashing his motorcycle Sunday near Fountain Springs in Butler Township is a motorcycle enthusiast who sets out for a ride whenever he has time, his boss said Tuesday.

David Tull, manager at Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson in Harrisburg, where injured biker Dalton Gross is a parts and service worker, said there was no particular reason, that he knows of, that Gross ended up some 60 miles from his Linglestown, Dauphin County, home other than that is where his ride took him.

“The weather was nice and he was just out for an enjoyable ride,” Tull said.

Gross, 28, was listed in critical condition Tuesday at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown.

Discovered by passerby

Butler Township Police Lt. Daniel Holderman determined through cellphone records that Gross called a family member about 4 p.m. Sunday from the area of where he was discovered by a passerby about 4:40 p.m. Monday.

Gross and his red Kawasaki Ninja were found over an embankment in Little Mahanoy Creek off Malones Road not far from the North Schuylkill School District campus.

He was unable to get back to the road because of his injuries, Holderman said. It is not known why Gross crashed.

He was treated at the scene by EMS personnel and taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street for further treatment. He was then flown to the Lehigh Valley facility in a MedEvac helicopter. A spokesperson at Lehigh Valley said Tuesday that Gross is listed in critical condition.

Emergency personnel wanted to fly Gross to the trauma center from the scene Monday but air medical helicopters were grounded until later due to the weather.

‘Terrific’ worker

On Gross’ Facebook page, he says he studied motorcycle technology at YTI Career Institute in York.

Tull described Gross as an outstanding member of the team at Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson, always willing to go the extra mile to help customers and coworkers.

“He’s terrific,” Tull said.

Tull said he is aware that Gross suffered major injuries in the crash but hopes he recovers and is able to return to work and, more importantly, get back to his passion of riding motorcycles.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

Kulpmont

The 17th Great Kulpmont Cruise, with up to 200 vehicles expected, will be held on its rain date, Sunday. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. at Holy Angels picnic grounds, Scott Street; judging will be held between noon and 2:30 p.m.; food and refreshments will be sold all day at the picnic grounds, with door prizes and music. A new feature this year is a fun run for motorcycles, called Thunder in Kulpmont. Participation in the motorcycle event is free; cyclists should be at the picnic grounds by 1 p.m., and the run will begin at 2:15 p.m. The cruise vehicles will show off at 3 p.m. After the ride along Chestnut Street, Route 61, the vehicles will be on display at the picnic grounds. The Kulpmont Cruise Association launched the event in 2002 and has since donated an estimated $100,000 to youth programs, local organizations and helped to build and maintain a playground, according to an event release. For more information, call Joe Cesari at 570-373-3561.

Lansford

The Music in the Park program from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the gazebo in Kennedy Park, adjacent to the Panther Valley School District Football Stadium, and will feature solo artist Dave Matsinko of Nesqehoning. Refreshments will be on sale; people are invited to bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the entertainment. The program is sponsored by the Lansford Alive Events Committee, which works for the revitalization of the park.

Llewellyn

A chicken barbecue with open-pit charcoal grilling by Two Guys Chicken will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday by the Good Intent Hose Company Auxiliary at the CRAFT HAUS parking lot, formerly the Beer Shak, along the Pottsville/Minersville Highway. Meals including a half chicken, potato and roll for $9 will be available. Tickets are available now at the firehouse and ticket sales must be picked up by 2 p.m. Tickets are not necessary for a chicken purchase, according to an event release. For more information, email mmbutler67@verizon.net.

Mahanoy City

Good American Hose Company, 738 E. Mahanoy Ave., will have its annual “Under the Big Top” bazaar from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, 4 to 11 p.m. Saturday and 4 to 10 p.m. Sunday. Entertainment on Friday and Sunday will be by disc jockey Party Time and on Saturday by Different Breed. The event will also include food, funnel cakes, games and refreshments. All are welcome.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Area High School Class of 1972 will meet at 7 p.m. July 8 at First United Methodist Church, 330 W. Market St. (side entrance), to plan for its 50-year class reunion. All are welcome.

Pottsville

A family friendly pool party is set for 6 p.m. July 16 at the JFK Pool. The cost is $2 for adults and $1 for students and children. The event will include entertainment by disc jockey Kevin Sibbett, swimming, door prizes and other attractions. The JFK concession stand will be open and the recreation complex also features basketball and tennis courts, sand volleyball and a walking path. Music will be sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church. Students and children must be accompanied by adults. For more information, call 570-622-4299.

Ringtown

The Ringtown Area Library, 132 W. Main St., part of the Pottsville District libraries, has Summer Quest activities on tap including ROAR goes the Dinosaur! At 10:30 a.m. July 8; Life in Space at 2 p.m. July 24 and Rocketing Reptiles at 2 p.m. Aug. 7. For more information, call the library at 570-889-5503.

Shenandoah

The revitalization group Downtown Shenandoah Inc. will have a meeting regarding the 2019 Shenandoah Heritage Day Parade of Nations at 1 p.m. Monday in its downtown center at 116 N. Main St. All ethnic groups are invited to attend and sign up to participate in the 2019 parade. A grand marshal will be chosen during the meeting. For more information, call DSI at 570-462-2060.

The jury is now deliberating the charges and evidence against a Tamaqua man accused of killing his wife in 2017.

The case was sent to the panel after a morning that included tearful testimony from Robert Bailey.

“All I wanted to do was hug Diane, but I ended up pushing her,” He told the court. “I don’t know why I did what I did. Something came over me.”

Schuylkill County District Attorney Mike O’Pake wasn’t impressed. He told the jury that Bailey may be remorseful now, but he wasn’t when he was arraigned nor when interviewed by television crews asking him what he was feeling. Bailey reportedly told the reporter he did not regret the killing.

Bailey 54, faces charges of first-degree murder, third-degree murder, possessing instrument of crime, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and two counts of aggravated assault. He faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison, which includes no chance of parole under state law, if convicted of first-degree murder.

Tamaqua police alleged that Robert Bailey repeatedly stabbed Diane Bailey, 44, about 7:40 p.m. Nov. 26, 2017, outside their 235 Lafayette St. residence in the borough. Diane Bailey had been preparing to leave the house when her husband knocked her down the steps and stabbed her 27 times, police said.

Check back for the verdict and read Thursday’s Republican-Herald.

If you are age 55 or older, does it sometimes seem as though children think you walked the earth with dinosaurs when you were growing up? Have you ever wanted to explain to a child how you changed a TV channel without a remote control or how you used a phone that was attached to the wall? Do you know what “OMG” means? Interesting conversations can arise between generations!

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Schuylkill County is looking for volunteer pen pals ages 55 and older to write to local fifth-grade students in the upcoming school year. The conversational letters forge intergenerational bonds while also helping students practice writing skills.

RSVP volunteers write to a fifth-grade student(s) in Saint Clair Area Elementary/Middle, Mahanoy Area Middle School and/or West Penn Elementary (Tamaqua Area School District) for one school year and then meet in person at a Meet & Greet in May. Volunteers can choose which school(s), the sex of the student and the number of pen pals they would like.

For more information, call Darla Troutman, RSVP Coordinator, at 570-622-3103.

Does your child love the library? Summer programs are now in full swing to provide hours of learning and enjoyment for their young minds. Check with your library for details.

The Tamaqua Public Library announces three summer programs geared for inquisitive youth.

Summer STREAM Quest, for children up to age 5, takes place at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Crafts, experiments, stories and snacks will be featured.

The Universe of Stories program, for ages 6 to 12, is being held 3 and 6 p.m. Mondays.

The Universe, the young adult program for ages 13 to 19, runs 3 p.m. every other Friday.

Call the library at 570-668-4660 for details on any of the summer programs.

The Pottsville Free Public Library is now hosting Summer Quest and Read to Me summer programs.

Parents complete a reading log with their children ages 2 to 5 for Read to Me and the child gets to choose a book or prize from the treasure chest.

School-aged children enrolled in Summer Quest complete missions, then get a book or prize from the treasure chest with a grand-prize drawings at the end of the program.

Fourth of July Frenzy Escape Room will be held 6 p.m. July 1 for ages 6 to 11. Find the stolen copy of the Declaration of Independence. Space is limited for the free event. Stop in, call 570-622-8880 or email potchild@pottsvillelibrary.org to register or get details on any of these programs.

Mark your calendars. Sweet Arrow Lake, Pine Grove, invites you to spend the Fourth of July with them. The annual Concert in the Park will feature patriotic songs sure to please everyone. Take your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the evening air. Go early and walk the trails, see the falls or do some boating or free fishing. The concert begins at 6 p.m.

On Fish for Free Day, anyone can fish without a license. What a nice opportunity to reacquaint yourself or teach a beginner the joys of fishing. All other fishing regulations apply.

Community Volunteers in Action is the volunteer center for Schuylkill County. Use the preceding contact information for those specific opportunities and search other listings on our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Find us on Facebook. Call us at 570-628-1426 or email jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

SHENANDOAH — As its planned innovation center project moves forward, Downtown Shenandoah Inc. has hired a full-time executive director to handle the many aspects of the project.

DSI President Karen Kenderdine announced at Tuesday’s meeting that Michael Weiss, of Pottsville, was hired for the newly-created position. Weiss will work with DSI Executive Director/Main Street Manager Mary Luscavage on the proposed Downtown Shenandoah Innovation and Event Center.

“We have a new employee with DSI,” Kenderdine said. “Michael Weiss is the executive director for the building project, for which we have not come up with a name yet. We are creating a separate standalone 501(c)3 for the building project.”

Weiss, who started his new job on May 14, attended the meeting and introduced himself to the more than 20 people who attended.

“It’s a really exciting project. I have been at several places, including the Pennsylvania Downtown Center conference,” Weiss said. “This project was very well known by a lot of the people at the conference. There is a lot of enthusiasm. Today, Mary and I were at the Economic Development Forum and Expo. There were three federal agencies there.”

The forum Weiss was speaking about was held at Penn State Schuylkill on Tuesday and was hosted by U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-9.

“Again, a lot of people there know about this project and are really excited about this project,” Weiss said.

A native of Montclair, New Jersey, and resident of Pottsville for five years, Weiss served for a short time as executive director of the Pottsville Area Development Corp.

“We have a lot of meetings coming up to move the project along, and hopefully by next month, we’ll have more to say about it,” Weiss said.

After the meeting, Kenderdine said Weiss will be an asset to DSI’s revitalization mission.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Michael here. He brings a vast array of experiences. He has lived many different places, which we look at as so positive, because he brings us ideas from New York, from Harrisburg, and other places,” Kenderdine said. “His creativity is so inspiring. So with his background and his talent, the sky’s the limit to what we can accomplishment.”

In other business, DSI members voted to retain the service of Erin Portland of Schuylkill GrantWorks, LLC, as grant writer.

“We’re very lucky with Erin starting her own business,” Kenderdine said. “She’s recommended by everyone. What makes us lucky is that Erin doesn’t do it by taking a percentage of your grant money. We gave her a list of grant opportunities that she will work on.”

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

POTTSVILLE — Students, graduates, family members and others came out to support Craig Shoener, the former high school instrumental music teacher and band director of the Pottsville Area School District.

About 75 people packed the school board meeting room at the Howard Fernsler Academic Center on Wednesday, making their case that the man they admired be given back something he loved so much. They spoke for about 90 minutes.

Shoener was reassigned to be the middle school music teacher previously. Superintendent Jeffrey S. Zwiebel would not say when that was but confirmed he did it. Shoener has been with the district for seven years at the high school before his reassignment. Shoener did not attend the meeting.

“He lost what he looked forward to his entire life,” Alyssa O’Neill, Shoener’s daughter said.

She said her father deserved more respect then he was given.

“He was completely blindsided,” she said about the change in duties.

She said people will wonder why he isn’t in his previous role any longer.

Shoener’s son, John Patrick Shoener, said his father has been “nothing but distraught for the last week. A piece of our lives has been taken from us,” he said.

Jacob Shoener, Shoener’s other son, talked about his father’s dedication to his craft.

“He is the hardest working man that I know, and puts his blood sweat, and tears into his work with young people,” Jacob Shoener said.

He said his father diligently researched everything to bring the best experience to the public and make the band excel. He said his father routinely had the band perform musical pieces that required extraordinary skill.

John Hannaway, a PASD graduate, said while he was in band, Shoener saw what he could become.

“Mr. Shoener has seen the musician in me that I was trying to find,” Hannaway said.

He said Shoener pushes students to “reach our potential” and “inspired” many students.

Michael Johnson-Ponce, a graduate of the school, said Shoener noticed the potential in students.

“He sees the musical potential in you and brings it up to a higher level,” Johnson-Ponce said.

Emily Huff, who has been in band since the fifth grade, and is going to be a senior, said Shoener made the band “amazing.”

“I love music more than anything in life. He is just someone you need. He will comfort you. He is not someone you should take away from us. We love him more than anything,” Huff said.

Some speakers thought the board had a role in the reassignment of Shoener. Board member Michael Cardamone said that is not true.

Desiree Muench said like others she didn’t like the outcome.

“You knocked the knees right from under him,” Muench said.

She said Shoener is an “outstanding human being,” and deserved better.

George Kubilus asked why the district would want to change something that wasn’t broken.

“Craig Shoener has the best sounding band that the school ever put out,” Kubilus said.

Superintendent responds

Zwiebel read a statement during the meeting thanking everyone for commenting. In part, the statement said “as an alumnus of this program, but having been a former music educator who has served as the Lengel Middle School Band Director and Assistant High School Band Director, I understand the passion of those who support our music program. It has positively impacted thousands of students over many decades.

There is no such thing as an easy decision. Each recommendation and decision is weighed carefully. Each year, we have discussions and review our extra curricular programs. It is our job to do what we believe is best for all our programs, even when we know that our decisions may not be popular. Our job is to provide the best possible programming for our students to succeed. Music is not exception.

I, and the board, thank everyone for their continued interest and support of not only our music program, but of all of our programs,” Zwiebel said..

Katelyn Reichard was voted on to fill the duties that Shoener previously had.

In other matters, the school board approved the $42,744,498 budget with a 1.3397 mill increase. The millage is now increased to 41.9383 mills, equating to an increase of $31.44 for the average house assessed at $23,467, Business Manager Brian Manning said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

POTTSVILLE — A world-renowned forensic pathologist may soon be available to assist Schuylkill County Coroner Dr. David J. Moylan III.

The Schuylkill County commissioners tentatively agreed at their work session Wednesday to enter into a contract with Dr. Cyril H. Wecht, of Allegheny County, for pathological services on a case-by-case basis. They expect to formally act on the contract at their regular meeting next week.

Moylan said Wecht will charge $1,750 for a complete medical-legal autopsy.

Cost breakdown

Moylan said forensic pathologist Dr. Richard P. Bindie currently completes forensic autopsies — those often involved in criminal investigations — for Schuylkill County, but with his increased duties as a pathologist at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street in Pottsville, his time is limited.

The coroner said Dr. Wayne Ross recently performed a forensic autopsy in Dauphin County that resulted in a bill of $2,150 for his services and an additional $450 for morgue fees for a total of $2,600.

Moylan said Wecht’s $1,750 charge includes morgue fees.

The $850 savings will cover the expense of transportation of bodies 233 miles one way to Wecht’s operation. Moylan estimates those costs at $15 an hour for a driver for 10 hours round trip (including time while the autopsy is conducted), $75 in fuel and $50 in tolls, a total of $275.

The $1,750 autopsy fee and $275 in transportation totals $2,025, still $575 per autopsy less than the same procedure in Dauphin County, Moylan said.

Moylan told the commissioners he anticipates using the services of Wecht no more than once a month unless several major incidents happen around the same time. He noted that only four forensic autopsies have been performed for the county to date in 2019.

Moylan said state police have been notified of the possibility of using Wecht and that arrangements will be made for a trooper from Allegheny County to attend the autopsies and report back to the station that is handling the investigation.

Why Allegheny County?

Commissioner Gary Hess asked Moylan why he selected someone in Pittsburgh for these services instead of going to nearby Berks or Lehigh counties.

Moylan said forensic pathologists are at a premium with only 27 in the state.

“They’re scarcer than hen’s teeth,” he said.

Moylan said autopsies in Berks County are done at a cost of about $2,000, but that, due to workload, requests from outside Berks County are not accepted.

As to Lehigh, Moylan said he and forensic pathologist Dr. Samuel Land have a difference of opinion regarding virtual autopsies, which Moylan uses, and that because of that he no longer uses Land’s services.

For normal autopsies that do not have potential ties to criminal cases, Moylan said Schuylkill County will still use the services of Dr. Mohamed Abdulla from the Bethlehem-Easton area.

As to the forensic cases, “This is not to replace Dr. Bindie,” Moylan said, “but to have someone capable in case he is not available.”

A new trend

Moylan said he has a professional relationship and is building a friendship with Wecht, who he said has a wealth of knowledge that can be used.

“Dr. Wecht will be an asset to both the coroner’s office and law enforcement should his services be needed,” he said.

Wecht has frequently appeared on nationally syndicated programs discussing forensic issues, including medical malpractice and drug abuse, the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, the death of Elvis Presley and the O.J. Simpson and JonBenet Ramsey cases.

Contacted Wednesday, Wecht said he is looking forward to helping the Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office and Moylan in anyway he can.

He said he and his colleague, forensic pathologist Dr. Jennifer Hammers, the former head of the Bronx Medical Examiner’s Office in New York City, also conduct autopsies for Armstrong, Fayette, Westmoreland and Greene counties.

In Pennsylvania, he said, it is not uncommon for a county coroner to outsource forensic autopsies.

“Most counties in Pennsylvania do not have a forensic pathologist and reach out for assistance,” Wecht said, adding that, “more and more police and district attorneys are pushing coroners to use forensic autopsies in cases that have a possibility of being criminal.”

After completing his autopsies, Wecht said the findings will be given to Moylan and to the respective law enforcement agency. Should a case go to trial, Wecht said he will be available to testify.

The contract was reviewed by County Administrator Gary Bender and is expected to be approved by the commissioners at their meeting Wednesday. It will be in effect until May 31.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

The most serious charge against a Pottsville man in connection with a stabbing in Saint Clair in April was withdrawn by prosecutors on Tuesday.

John Derwood Berger, 34, whose last known address was 451B E. Norwegian St. is charged with stabbing Jesse Troutman on April 9.

Saint Clair police Patrolman Brad Blanner charged Berger with attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, possessing instruments of crime, prohibited offensive weapons, recklessly endangering another person and simple assault.

After consulting with Troutman, prosecutors withdrew the attempted criminal homicide charge with Berger waiving the remaining offenses to Schuylkill County Court, where he can now plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

Blanner charged Berger with an incident at 201 E. Lawton St., Apt. C, where he and Troutman became involved in an altercation.

During the altercation, Berger pulled an edged instrument from his pocket and lunged at Troutman slicing his neck, Blanner said.

Troutman fled the apartment to seek help and then walked to the area of the Buckhorn Café, where he was met by police.

As Troutman was being treated for his injuries, Blanner said, he followed a blood trail from where the man was found back to the apartment where the alleged assault happened.

After the assault, Berger fled the scene and could not be located in the days following the attack.

He was picked up later in the month by U.S. Marshals in the Summit Station area.

Troutman was flown to a trauma center for injuries he received in the assault and has since been released.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

KLINGERSTOWN —Authorities are calling a neglect of animals incident in Upper Mahantongo Township that came to light Wednesday one of the worst cases they have ever seen.

Tricia Moyer, cruelty officer with Hillside SPCA, Pottsville, said a text message to a shelter employee Wednesday morning alerted authorities to the home of Vincent Weist at 1488 Ridge Road, where a dead golden retriever was found in a nearby creek.

Moyer said state police from the Schuylkill Haven station were contacted and obtained a search warrant for the property.

Once on the property, Moyer said, authorities found two dead goats, one live goat, five live donkeys and 30 live dogs, a mixture of golden retrievers and black labs.

The dogs were found both chained to the back of the property and also inside the home, which was littered with feces and in deplorable condition.

The live animals, Moyer said, are suffering from skin infections and overall in bad health.

As a result, Moyer said, state police will be filing charges of animal cruelty against Weist along with other possible crimes.

Weist was not at home and, as of Wednesday night, has not been located.

Moyer said the shelter is looking for Weist and asking him to sign the animals over.

Moyer said the animals can only be administered medical treatment but cannot be put up for adoption.

“Until he signs the dogs over to us, we can’t do anything with them,” she said adding that the 30 dogs are being housed at the shelter while the larger animals are at a foster farm.

The sudden acquiring of the 30 large dogs is placing a burden on the shelter.

“We’re really up the river for space,” she said, adding that employees are actively trying find homes for dogs at the shelter that are eligible for adoption.

“This a big burden on the shelter that is already crowded,” Moyer said.

Moyer said the Weist home sits alone outside of Klingerstown and is not near any other property owners who could have noticed the condition of the animals earlier.

She said if the person who had concerns about the animals did not notice the dead dog in the creek the animals would have continued living in life-threatening conditions.

A public information release report issued Wednesday night by state police simply said officers are investigating an “Animal Abuse/Neglect of Animals” incident.

“All of the dogs appeared to be malnourished,” the release said.

Assisting at the scene in addition to SPCA officials was a Pennsylvania State Dog Warden, police said.

Moyer said the ball is in Weist’s court to turn ownership of the animals over to the shelter.

“We hope he (Weist) comes forward and does the right thing for the sake of the animals,” Moyer said.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

A knife-wielding man driving a pickup truck was arrested in Black Creek Township on Wednesday morning, court papers say.

Alan J. Palumbo, 56, of Top Street, Black Creek Township, attempted to flee police when they responded to a report of a man in a silver Ford waving a knife around in the Weston section of the township, according to state police at Hazleton.

He was charged with a felony for fleeing police and misdemeanors for reckless endangerment, resisting arrest and three counts driving under the influence.

Police also charged him with eight summary violations that include disorderly conduct and careless driving.

Palumbo was taken to jail after failing to immediately post $20,000 bail set Wednesday morning by Magisterial District Judge Daniel O’Donnell, Sugarloaf Township.

A witness told police that Palumbo got out of his truck and swung a “big” knife at him in a threatening manner before driving away.

The encounter happened around 3:20 a.m. in the area of 628 London St., and police arrived to find Palumbo in the truck at London and Derringer streets.

His headlights weren’t on, and he made a wide turn into the oncoming lane at that intersection, continuing to drive in the opposing lane before stopping in the road, police said.

Police said they attempted a traffic stop but Palumbo drove left onto Top Street, then left onto Line Street without using a turn signal before stopping in an alley.

He had a 4 1/2-inch blade knife in his right hand and placed it on his console when troopers told him to.

They seized the knife and after Palumbo refused to leave the truck, forced him out and put him in handcuffs.

Once he was in custody, Palumbo, who was driving with a DUI-suspended license and appeared intoxicated, claimed a large group of men were attempting to steal from his garage, arrest papers state.

Police investigated, but did not see anyone else in the area and the garage didn’t look like it was disturbed.

Palumbo’s eyes were bloodshot, and he had trouble standing. Inside his vehicle, troopers said they found four open bottles of Twisted Tea, a malt beverage.

There was also an open beer can, and the license plate on the truck was registered to another vehicle, court papers state.

He was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton just before 4 a.m. for a blood test.

Contact the writer: achristman@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3584

POTTSVILLE — A Pottsville motorist will serve at least six months on house arrest after admitting Monday to a Schuylkill County judge that she was driving under the influence of drugs in September 2017 while her license was suspended.

Lisa M. Kelly, 50, must spend six months to 5 1/2 years on house arrest with electronic monitoring, President Judge William E. Baldwin decided.

Baldwin also sentenced Kelly to pay costs, a $1,500 fine, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $400 restitution to the Lehigh Valley Health Network, and perform 20 hours community service. Baldwin made the sentence effective on July 1.

Kelly pleaded guilty to DUI and DUI while suspended. State police at Frackville alleged Kelly was DUI on Sept. 5, 2017, in Cass Township.

Also on Monday, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin revoked the parole of Cody M. Church, 31, of Frackville, and recommitted him to prison.

Dolbin set a new maximum date of Sept. 25, 2020, and made Church ineligible for reparole until Nov. 10. He also ordered Church to undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

Church originally pleaded guilty on Nov. 12, 2014, to possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, operating with unsafe equipment and obscured plates.

At that time, Dolbin sentenced Church to spend three to 23 months in prison, pay costs, a $100 SAEF payment, a $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Shenandoah police charged Church with possessing the drugs on Dec. 28, 2013, in the borough.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

A call to police about a young man kicking trash cans and doors in Hazleton, resulted in an arrest, but not until after he gave officers a hard time, court papers say.

Noah J. Plasko, 19, Pottsville, faces charges of resisting arrest, loitering, prowling at night, false identification to law enforcement and disorderly conduct, all misdemeanors.

He was also charged with a summary count of public drunkenness and was brought to jail after failing to immediately post $5,000 bail set Wednesday morning in Luzerne County Central Court, Wilkes-Barre.

Police said Plasko was seen kicking garbage cans and attempting to kick in doors in the area of 27 E. Maple St., around 12:30 a.m. He was with two other males at the time.

Using a description of the suspect from witnesses, police found them about three blocks away at Wyoming and Broad streets.

The two people with Plasko said they didn’t know him and were walking when he began following them and telling them he was on drugs.

Plasko not only appeared to be under the influence, but also told police he was on drugs and that one of the officer’s handcuffs “turned him on,” court papers state.

Sgt. Joseph Babula asked for Plasko’s name but Plasko replied with a question — asking the officer for his name.

Babula told him his name and asked Plasko his name again but Plasko kept replying that his name was Joseph Babula, court papers state.

Eventually, Babula attempted to place him in handcuffs, but Plasko started to run.

He didn’t get very far, though, running straight into another officer who attempted to detain him with a bear hug, police said.

Court papers state Plasko struggled, kicking and flailing, but was eventually put in handcuffs after officers used force to overcome his resistance.

Officers finally learned his real identity when they checked his fingerprints.

The two people with him were identified and released by police.

Contact the writer: achristman@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3584

SHENANDOAH HEIGHTS — The West Mahanoy Township supervisors approved advertising for bids for the 2019 road improvement project at their Tuesday meeting.

The roads are in various sites throughout the township according to the list compiled by ARRO Consulting Inc., the township consulting engineering firm.

The estimated $110,000 project will include the following streets/roads:

• Altamont Boulevard, Altamont — Full-depth repair of a 45-foot-long section.

• Chestnut Street, Altamont — Shoulder construction along 825 feet of roadway.

• Industrial Road, Altamont — Asphalt overlay along 65 feet.

• City Shirt Road, Altamont — 10-inch depth base repair along 22 feet, and 445 feet of a leveling course and asphalt overlay.

• Arizona Avenue, Shenandoah Heights — 10-inch depth base repair along 290 feet, leveling course along 80 feet, and asphalt overlay along 510 feet.

• Wyoming Street, Shenandoah Heights — 10-inch depth base repair along 35 feet, and 445 feet of asphalt overlay.

• Frack Street, Altamont — Shoulder reconstruction along 185 feet, and stone shoulder along 125 feet.

• Intersection of Ohio Avenue and Norton Way — Full-depth repair along 80 feet.

After the meeting, township Secretary/Treasurer Michael Michalik said the entrance road to Schuylkill Technology Center-North had been considered and was being surveyed by Brinkash & Associates Inc., Ashland, for the road program.

“The reason the road is not on there is because at last month’s meeting we wanted to know who owns the road,” Michalik said. “We approved to have a survey done by Brinkash. It turned out that before we had the study done, we found out that we don’t actually own the road. PennDOT does. So we’re going to find out if we can get liquid fuels money to repair the road. That will be a process, and we didn’t want to delay the road program. It may be something we’ll have to add on at a later date.”

Board Chairman David Lukashunas said the township received a letter from Pennsylvania-American Water Co. about plans to install a 2-inch plastic water main on North Wylam Street from Frack Street to the dead end. The company requested to wave permit fees in exchange for the company to pave curb to curb with 4 to 6 inches of an asphalt base coat. The supervisors approved the request.

The township continues to work with Girard Estate in razing vacant blighted structures located on leased land owned by the company, which pays the demolition costs, in the villages of William Penn and Lost Creek.

In order to qualify, the houses have to be abandoned for years, are not half of a double-block structure unless both sides are being demolished, and there are no taxes or a lease being paid.

This is the ninth year for the demolition program partnership. Girard Estate has demolished 48 structures in the past eight years.

The following six houses were approved for the 2019 blight project:

• 500 Mount Olive Blvd., Lost Creek (two structures)

• 37 and 41 Elliot St., William Penn

• 36 and 38 St. Paul St., William Penn

In other business, the supervisors:

• Increased the salary of road worker Michael Vega to $16.50 per hour in accordance with the collective bargaining contract for nonuniform employees, retroactive to June 17, when the 90-day probationary period was completed.

• Approved the county repository sale of 126 S. Spencer St., Altamont, to Jan and John Lukashunas for their offer of $1,500. Supervisor Lukashunas abstained from the vote.

• Approved the county repository sale of 15 St. Paul St., William Penn, to Jared Hettler and Mylaylah Haavlicek for their offer of $2,296.

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

Hegins

A takeout-only roast pork dinner to benefit the David A. Lucas family will be held with pickups from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. June 29 at 510 E. Main St. The cost is $15 per platter; tickets are required. Platters will include roast pork, homemade filling, pepper cabbage, green beans, applesauce, gravy and cake. Tickets are available at The Lunch Box, Hegins; Moore’s Supply Store, Valley View, or from any Friedens Lutheran Church member or by calling Jean Morris at 570-617-6529. All are welcome.

Minersville

The Minersville Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorial donations: For Edna “Frenchie” Reynolds from Nancy and Joe Butensky; for Barbara A. Rogers from Nancy and Joe Butensky; for Yaeko (Kay) Mastauskas from Donna Zelonis; for C. Therese Murphy from Dave and Georgine Studlack; for Kathy Barone Marianelli from Joe and Nancy Butensky and Dana and Jessie, from Rick and Barb Pielacha; for Nancy Kosteleba from Rick and Barb Pielacha; for Kitty Dicello from Rick and Barb Pielacha.

Pine Grove

The 93rd annual reunion of the Pine Grove Area High School Alumni Association was held May 25 in the Pine Grove Area Middle School. Stephen L. Frantz, Class of 1969, welcomed 171 alumni and guests. The oldest class represented was the Class of 1936 with Claire Tobias Williams, Pine Grove; the youngest class represented was the Class of 2016 with Mackenzie Lesh, Pine Grove. The 50-year anniversary class of 1969 received special recognition. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award to Scott Boyer, Ph.D., Class of 1978. The award, established in 1979, recognizes and honors distinguished alumni of Pine Grove Area High School. Boyer is a 1982 graduate of Pennsylvania State University where he earned a bachelor of science in biochemistry and a 1987 graduate of Texas A&M where he earned a doctorate in biochemistry and biophysics. From 1987 to 1990 he was a post-doctoral research associate at Purdue University and for the past 26 years he has worked for Beckman Coulter Inc. in clinical diagnostics and life science research that designs, develops, manufactures, sells and services biomedical testing products. Boyer lives in Fullerton, California. The 2019 Humanitarian Award went to Charles Zimmerman, Class of 1969. The association elected officers for the 2019-20 as follows: Keith Thomas, Class of 1967, president; Donna Zerbe, Class of 1970, vice president; Gail Roeder, Class of 1971, vice president-elect; Rosemary Kramer, Class of 1956, secretary; Wilson Aungst, Class of 1957, treasurer, and Jean Barr, Class of 1941, historian.

Pottsville

The Third Brigade Band will perform in concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Schuylkill Center. People are invited to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the performance. For more information, call the band’s William Rutecky at 570-622-3505.

Primrose

The 85th annual Ukrainian Seminary Day will be held July 28 at St. Nicholas Church picnic grounds, Route 901. The event is sponsored by the 12 parishes and faithful of the South Anthracite Deanery under the leadership of their pastors, according to a release. Plans for the day include a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at 11 a.m. celebrated by Metropolitan-Archbishop Borys Gudziak and clergy of the deanery, ethnic and regional foods prepared by the parishes of the deanery, a theme basket auction, vendors selling Ukrainian and Eastern European items and games for children. There will be no admission fee and plenty of free parking. All are welcome.

Saint Clair

Phoenix Fire Company No. 4 will have its second annual Chinese auction on June 29 and 30 at the Saint Clair Fish & Game Club, East Lawton Street. There will be shops and drops from 4 to 8 p.m. June 29 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 30. The drawing will be held just after 3 p.m. June 30. Items will include celebrity sports memorabilia donated by local businesses. Proceeds will aid the company.

Sheppton

St. Joseph Roman Catholic Parish will have its annual picnic at the firehouse from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Entertainment on Saturday will feature Soundworks and on Sunday, the Polski Swingmasters. Ethnic food and homemade desserts will be among the attractions. All are welcome.

POTTSVILLE — In response to the public’s request, improvements have been made to the Lions Amphitheater at Gen. George A. Joulwan East Side Park, allowing for easier access.

City street and park workers installed 45 prefabricated concrete stairs last month leading the park to provide a more welcoming environment. Womer Landscaping, Pottsville, helped with the project.

“We are working to make the amphitheater a very inviting place for people to spend time when we have our free events,” said Dave Clark, parks foreman.

He said those attending the concert series last year suggested some sort of steps be built, so they wouldn’t have to walk down a path that circles the area.

The steps were installed six weeks ago. A stainless steel railing was installed on the left side, and another is planned for the other side.

Other recently added features include steps in front of the amphitheater, electric outlets and a wooden fence along the top of the walkway. An updated security system is also planned.

“It will last a really long time,” Clark said of the improvements, which cost approximately $23,000.

Mural moved

The Dave Naydock mural at the bottom of the walking path was moved a few feet away as to not impede access. The mural shows signs of wear from its previous home at Brewers’ Outlet along Route 61. Framed in steel, it is nonetheless exposed to the elements. The mural was moved in August 2015 after the outlet was demolished to make way for a CVS Pharmacy.

Clark said the city would like to provide a roof over the mural, but nothing has been finalized.

‘Gorgeous place’

Mayor James T. Muldowney said the park is becoming a gathering spot for city events.

“It’s starting to be used to its potential. It’s a gorgeous place,” Muldowney said.

City council member Joe Devine said the area is “a gem” the city is happy to provide to residents.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Deeds

Ashland — Elliott J. and Chelsea P. Burlett to Sheryl A. Trautman; 26 Walnut St.; $72,000.

Kline Township — John M. Miller and Robert R. Miller, individually and as executor of the Estate of Rose Marie Miller, to Robert R. and Georgianne Marie Miller; 126 Haddock Road; $1.

Mahanoy City — BPH Properties Ltd. to Radfel properties LLC; 1404 E. Centre St.; $16,000.

Reilly Township — 17 Mile Real Estate LLC to C. Merrick Co.; property on Route 209; $80,000.

Rush Township — Ricky L. and Rosanne D. Johnson to Monica Ustonofski, Michael L. Johnson, Nathan D. Johnson and Nadine D. Fisher; 451 Ben Titus Road; $1.

Lois L. Gasser to Frank J. and Amber Shemansik; 68 Cumberland Ave., Hometown; $162,500.

Fern L. Rudenko to Douglas Rudenko; two properties in Taggartsvile; $1.

Schuylkill Haven — Stanley E. Pogirski, by attorneys in fact Lena M. Johns and Sylvia H. Edwards, to Nichole Phillips; 429 E. Main St.; 412,000.

Shenandoah — Paul H. Givins to Martha A. Valerio; 520 W. Coal St.; $14,000.

Greg Popa to Romaldo E. Espinal; property on West Coal Street; $10,000.

Haroll J. Meregildo to Eridania Perez; 114-116 W. Coal St.; $1.

Tamaqua — Russell and Fern L. Rudenko to Deborah A. Rudenko; 166 Orwigsburg St.; $1.

Union Township — James E. Abicunas to Susan P. Danne and James E. Abicunas; 160 Lumpy Lane; $1.

West Brunswick Township — John S. and Kathryn L. Tavares to Derek C. and Erin C. Varney; 1808 Ridgewood Road; $357,000.

Marriages

Howard I. Boyer Jr., Tamaqua, and Amy M. Wagner, Tamaqua.

Christopher M. Lawrence, Schuylkill Haven, and Sarah E. Merkey, Myerstown.

Andrew S. Koehler, Pottsville, and Megan Sullivan, Pottsville.

Adam J. Konsavage, Mohrsville, and Janis M. Umberger, Mohrsville.

Chad C. Fidler, Pine Grove, and Kelsey M. Hughes, Pine Grove.

Robert E. Greene Jr., Pine Grove, and Cassandra L. Shipe, Pine Grove.

Jordan Lee Hurst, Richland, and Anna M. Zimmerman, New Holland.

Robert W. Bannan, Tamaqua, and Lola M. Sadusky, Tamaqua.

Gary M. Baneravage, McAdoo, and Sherie M. Shigo, McAdoo.

Chad A. Heffner, Pine Grove, and Emily Ann Stemmler, New Ringgold.

Michael D. Grieder, Tamaqua, and Deidre A. Mashack, Tamaqua.

Richard B. Schultheis, Tower City, and Mary E. Peto, Tower City.

Justin C. Hill, Tamaqua, and Toriana M. Rizzo, Tamaqua.

Divorces granted

Jennifer Blasko, Brockton, from Steve Blasko, Brockton.

Todd Parobek, Auburn, from Angela Parobek, Palo Alto.

Kristen Kaufman, Pine Grove, from Joseph Kaufman, Donaldson.

Tracey Eckert, Pottsville, from Clarence Eckert, New Philadelphia.

Karl Hodge, West Reading, from Ivy Hodge, Mahanoy City.

Deeds

Coaldale — Michael A. and Janet L. Raub to Carolyn M. Bazik; 240 W. Howard Ave.; $36,000.

Cressona — Heather A. Brensinger Halford to Cole W. Minard; 27 Marsha Drive; $165,000.

Joshua Drey to Ian Mataka; 51 Front St.; $79,500.

East Union Township — Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Wen Jin Lee and Su Jen Liu; Lot 165WSS, Eagle Rock; $40,299.

Hegins Township — Matthew J. and Kylie J. Smeltz to Ernest L. Jr. and Pennie L. Klinger; 642 E. Main St., Hegins; $76,900.

Michael M. Miller to Jonathan Reidler; property on Maple Street, Valley View; $135,000.

Kline Township — Kathryn Slusser, executrix of the Last Will & Testament of Joseph Lombardo, to Lori A. Bennett; 9 First St., Kelayres; $84,900.

POTTSVILLE — The owner of 37 animals seized by the Hillside SPCA has agreed to surrender ownership to the majority of the animals, clearing the way for them to be adopted.

The animals, 30 dogs, black labs and golden retrievers, as well as seven cats, were found living in unfit conditions on 1488 Ridge Road, Upper Mahantongo Township, property of Vincent Weist.

SPCA Cruelty Officer Tricia Moyer-Mentzer said she met with Weist on Thursday, and after discussions, the man agreed to turn over the majority of the animals to the SPCA.

The remaining animals will be housed at the shelter pending the outcome of charges against Weist that will be filed by state police from the Schuylkill Haven station.

She said a goat and five donkeys on the property were also rescued and taken to a foster farm for lodging and treatment.

Moyer-Mentzer said she asked Weist why he had the animals living in such conditions.

She recalled him saying “so you know you have to work.”

In addition to the dog found dead in the creek, Moyer said two goats were found dead on the property and the remains of other dogs discovered in compost pile bins.

Weist also said he was unaware of the dead dog in the creek and that the two goats found dead on the property

died sometime during the winter.

Moyer-Mentzer said that some of the animals were infested with fleas and had overgrown nails and have since been looked at by a veterinarian.

Several of the dogs were puppies and were being trampled by the older dogs when SPCA officials entered the property, Moyer-Mentzer said.

The goat and donkeys are also being tended to.

On Thursday, Moyer-Mentzer said the location of the farm where the larger animals are being kept cannot be revealed, an order given to the shelter by state police from the Schuylkill Haven station who are investigating the incident.

When contacted, police confirmed the location would not be revealed at the present time.

Moyer-Mentzer said the Hillside SPCA was alerted to the animals Wednesday morning after someone found a golden retriever dog dead in a nearby creek and reported it.

Arriving at the property hours later, she said authorities were shocked and disheartened by what they saw.

“It was very disturbing,” she said.

Moyer-Mentzer issued a plea to anyone who may be interested in adopting an animal to come to the shelter in Pottsville.

She said that the Hillside SPCA was already experiencing crowded conditions that are now compounded by the 30 additional dogs and seven cats.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013