Hazleton's top cop wants city council to spend at least $196,000 over the next five years to upgrade a broken-down, gas-guzzling fleet of police vehicles.

With the newest vehicles in the existing fleet between six and seven years old, Chief Frank DeAndrea wants council to approve a lease-purchase agreement that he believes would improve safety conditions for both his officers and the public.

A resolution listed on council's meeting agenda for Wednesday seeks its approval of a lease-purchase agreement that would deliver five 2013 Ford Interceptor sport utility vehicles to the department for $196,921.75.

DeAndrea said he identified $44,100 from the police budget that could be used for making a "down payment" in 2013 and for satisfying annual lease-purchase payments of approximately $43,000 over a five-year period. The city would then purchase each vehicle for $1.

Estimates provided by the chief over the weekend exceed the overall dollar amount listed in council's resolution.

The vehicles, which were test-driven and approved by police union representatives, would bring a much-needed upgrade to the city's existing 22-vehicle fleet, DeAndrea contends. The oldest of those vehicles are between seven and 10 years old, prone to breakdowns and electrical shortages, leak fluids that create unpleasant emissions for officers and - in some cases - lack police radios, DeAndrea said.

"With the electrical short-circuiting, we get stuck transporting prisoners," he said.

In one instance, he said officers had just dropped off suspects at the county prison in Wilkes-Barre when the car's electrical system shut down.

"It's bad enough when you're alone but the prisoners we were transporting after an arraignment … they were homicide subjects," he said.

The police union has threatened to file a grievance because of vehicle conditions, DeAndrea noted.

"We have cars that when you get out of them at the end of a couple of hours, you have a headache," he said.

The chief's request follows months of heated city budget negotiations that were capped with a 45 percent property tax hike, a wage tax increase and approval of a new stormwater maintenance fee.

Prices are based on the state's COSTARS cooperative purchasing program, DeAndrea said. He worked with three different vendors before settling on the Ford model, provided by KME Kovatch, Nesquehoning.

Officers and management favored Ford's vehicles and lease-purchase proposal over others because an initial payment does not have to be made for 12 months, DeAndrea said.

Money earmarked for 2013, meanwhile, will be used as a "down payment," which would reduce future payments, he said.

With the city struggling financially, Ford's proposal contains no penalty should the city for some reason default on the agreement, he said.

Costs total about $43,000 per vehicle, but DeAndrea said each SUV will be street-ready, meaning they will be delivered with light bars, consoles, radios, cages, lettering, striping, cages and rear-seat plastic guards.

Vehicles also will feature ballistic panels, a safety feature that DeAndrea said is necessary when police answer between five and 10 reports of "shots fired" each month.

"We had between five and seven automatic-weapon calls last year where we'd have six to seven neighbors call and say they heard multiple shots in a row," DeAndrea said. "The fact is, it's not safe for my officers to go out and not have some kind of protection."

Police currently borrow vehicles from other city departments when driving conditions warrant it, he said.

"It's embarrassing, but I tell it like it is," DeAndrea said. "We have to borrow from code, highway, and the parking authority so we can get around in the snow."

Council will consider the lease-purchase proposal when it meets at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall.

sgalski@standardspeaker.com, 570-455-3636

Underage drinking

COAL TOWNSHIP - Edward W. Hancock, 18, of 5 W. Commerce St., Shamokin, was cited by Patrolman William Zalinski for underage drinking relating to an incident at 12:20 a.m. Sunday in the first block of East Sunbury Street.

Harassment

RIVERSIDE - Athena Marie Williams, 28, of Danville, was cited by Trooper Daniel J. Wilk for harassment for allegedly shoving a 9-year-old Danville female to the ground at 3:45 p.m. Saturday at 303 Avenue F. The victim escaped injury, police said.

Tools, wire stolen

COAL TOWNSHIP - Randy Dock of Middleburg reported someone entered a property at 912 W. Holly St. that he is renovating and stole several tools and copper wire.

Stolen were a Sears Shop-Vac, a Torro pushmower, hammer, pry bar, flat bar, staple gun, electrical breakers, plastic piping and approximately 200 feet of copper wire totaling $700.

Anyone with information about the theft is urged to call Coal Township police at 644-0333.

Route 11 crash

MONROE TOWNSHIP - Katheryn Lebarron, 76, of Troupsburg, N.Y., was involved in a one-vehicle accident Sunday afternoon on Route 11 just north of Tedd's Landing.

State police at Selinsgrove reported Lebarron was driving south at 1:40 p.m. when her vehicle left the right side of the highway and struck a stone cliff/wall before re-entering the road and traveling across the southbound lane into the northbound lane. The vehicle then traveled back into the southbound lane and came to rest.

Police did not indicate on their press release if Lebarron was injured.

Drug charges

MONROE TOWNSHIP - Brian Betz, 24, of Shamokin Dam, was placed under arrest by state police at Selinsgrove for presumption of driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct relating to an incident at 1:20 a.m. Sunday in the parking lot at Wal-Mart.

Betz, who was found passed out in the driver's seat of a running vehicle, was committed to Snyder County Prison on a parole violation.

WILKES-BARRE TWP. - A Wilkes-Barre woman forged $7,500 worth of money orders and cashed one of them, township police said.

Abree Antonette Tooley, 20, is charged with forgery and theft by deception.

Police arrested Tooley at 9:58 a.m. Monday after determining she had forged the Western Union money orders at the Turkey Hill on Wilkes-Barre Township Boulevard, and cashed one of them for $490 at United Check Cashing in Wilkes Plaza.

Towanda man charged with assault

A female reported that her ex-husband, Michael Joseph Hackett of Towanda, slammed her against a wall and then struck her when he closed a door on her, police said.

The incident occurred at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 at Hackett's residence, after an argument broke out between the two, police said.

Falsey suffered bruises as a result of this incident, police said.

As a result of this incident, Hackett has been charged with simple assault and harassment, Towanda police said.

Hackett, 34, has been sent a summons which orders him to appear for a preliminary hearing on Feb. 13 in Towanda District Court.

Vehicle strikes tree in Laporte Twp.

No one was injured in a recent motor vehicle accident in Laporte Township in which a vehicle struck a tree, police said.

The accident occurred at 8:53 p.m. Thursday when 55-year-old William R. Woodford of Lopez, who was driving west on Thorne Street, swerved to miss an unknown animal in the roadway, police said.

The vehicle left the north side of Thorne Street and struck a tree, police said. An eight-year-old boy, Zackary R. Duncan of Lopez, was a passenger in the vehicle, police said.

Fraud occurs in Dushore

State police are seeking the public's assistance is locating a suspect who paid for fuel at the Pump-n-Pantry in Dushore using what appeared to be 8 rolls of dimes.

It was later discovered that the rolls of coins contained pennies, with dimes on either end, police said.

The suspect is described as a black male, police said.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 20, according to the state police at Laporte.

DUI arrests

The following person was recently charged with driving while under the influence in Bradford County:

Bryan Lewis Hoff, 25, of Ulster, by the state police, on Nov. 14, on Snyder Road in Sheshequin Township. Hoff had crashed into a mountain-side embankment and told police that he had taken medications prior to the accident. A blood test revealed that, on the day of Hoff's arrest, his blood contained 6.0 mcg/ml of Carisoprodol and 22 mcg/ml of Meprobamate. Hoff was also cited for driving with a suspended or revoked license, failure to stay in his lane, careless driving, and failure to immediately notify police of the accident.

The following people were recently charged with driving while under the influence in Tioga County, N.Y.:

Vicki L. McSparron, 44, of Athens, by Waverly village police, on Jan. 13, on Cayuta Avenue in Waverly. McSparron was also cited for failing to keep right, refusing a breath screening test and speeding. McSparron was released to appear Jan. 24 in Village of Waverly court to answer the charges.

Howard J. Moore, 51, of Athens, by Waverly village police, on Jan. 19, on Pennsylvania Avenue in Waverly. Moore was also cited for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and making an unsafe turn. Moore was released to appear Jan. 29 in Village of Waverly court to answer the charges.

Money stolen from animal sanctuary

State police at Towanda are investigating the theft of funds from the Animal Care Sanctuary in East Smithfield.

According to information from state police, an unnamed actor stole $774 in donation money and adoption fees from an office within the facility. The theft occurred sometime between Dec. 15 and Dec. 17, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at (570) 265-2186.

Actor sought in egg-throwing incident

State police are seeking an actor or actors involved in a disorderly conduct incident that recently occurred in Ulster Township.

According to information from state police at Towanda, a male was operating a blue 2010 Ford Mustang at about 10 p.m. Jan. 11 on Bridge Street in Ulster when his vehicle was struck by an egg. Anyone with information on the identity of the actor or actors is asked to call state police at (570) 265-2186.

Car hits tree

ROCKEFELLER TOWNSHIP - Ethan A. McClincy, 18, of Sunbury, was injured Tuesday afternoon when the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am GT he was driving struck a tree on Derr Road near Cider Press Road.

State police at Stonington said McClincy was driving south on Cider Press Road at 4 p.m. when he turned left onto Derr Road, where he lost control of the car on the gravel-covered road. The auto exited the south side of the road and struck a tree with its front end. After impact, the car spun approximately 180 degrees clockwise before descending an embankment and striking a large rock and tree stump with its rear end.

McClincy was transported by private vehicle to Sunbury Community Hospital, but police said they did not know the seriousness of McClincy's injury.

McClincy was cited for driving at an unsafe speed.

Two-car crash

COAL TOWNSHIP - Two Coal Township women escaped injury in a two-vehicle accident Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of Pine and Poplar streets.

Police said Elaine Christ, 58, of 1350 W. Montgomery St., Coal Township, was driving a 2008 Mercury west on Pine Street at 2:15 p.m. when she pulled from a stop sign into the path of a 2006 Pontiac driven south on Poplar Street by MaraLynn Hudock, 34, of 1034 W. Mulberry St., Coal Township.

Both vehicles sustained minor damage.

Theft offenses

SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP - Stephen M. Hornberger, 27, of 1450 Irish Valley Road, Paxinos, has been charged by Trooper Todd Leiby of state police at Stonington with theft and receiving stolen property.

According to a criminal complaint, Hornberger is accused of stealing 20 sections of wrought iron fencing and gates at Irish Valley United Methodist Church along Irish Valley Road between Jan. 4 and Jan. 5.

Police said the fencing and gates are valued at $2,500. Police reported Hornberger took the fencing to Jeff's Recycling Center, where he received $200 for it.

Simple assault

TREVORTON - Charges of simple assault and harassment were filed by Trooper Barry Wooten of state police at Stonington against Matthew D. Swinehart, 29, of 821 W. Shamokin St., Trevorton.

Police reported Swinehart is accused of punching Timothy Kessler, of Trevorton, in the face, breaking his nose, on Jan. 1 on West Market Street in Trevorton. Police said Kessler also was charged in the altercation.

DUI

COAL TOWNSHIP - Patrolman Jason Adams has charged Samuel A. Dascani, 53, of 1043 W. Willow St., Coal Township, with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol relating to a Jan. 5 incident at Chestnut and Oak streets.

Police said Dascani had a blood-alcohol content of .23 percent.

DUI

SHAMOKIN - Timothy S. McCarthy Sr., 47, of 509 E. Spurzheim St., Shamokin, has been charged by Patrolman Raymond Siko II with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under suspension and a stop sign violation relating to a Jan. 1 incident in the 500 block of East Spurzheim Street.

Police said McCarthy had a blood-alcohol content of .225 percent.

Retail theft

COAL TOWNSHIP - Charges of retail theft and criminal conspiracy to commit retail theft were filed by Patrolman Matthew Hashuga against Crystal Mutschler, 20, of 124 E. Chestnut St., Shamokin, and Michelle Wolfe, 29, of 1442 W. Walnut St., Coal Township.

Police reported Mutschler and Wolfe are accused of stealing $262.96 worth of merchandise from Wal-Mart Supercenter on Route 61 on Jan. 8.

Multiple charges

COAL TOWNSHIP - Patrolman Edward Purcell has filed charges of fleeing or attempting to elude police, a red light violation, careless driving and a lighting violation against Daniel C. Carl, 22, of 131 Iron St., Coal Township.

According to a criminal complaint, Carl is accused of fleeing from police, driving through a red light at the intersection of Route 901 and Reinhart Road, and operating a vehicle with a broken taillight Dec. 30.

Theft from vehicle

ZERBE TOWNSHIP - Police are investigating the theft of several items from a vehicle parked on the 300 block of East Shamokin Street over the weekend.

Chief Robert John reports that sometime between 10 p.m. Sunday and 2:30 a.m. Monday, someone entered a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado, owned by John Ciccarone, 24, and removed approximately $1,500 in cash, a 14-karat gold necklace, valued at $500, a black Burberry bag and other items. The items were taken while Ciccarone was visiting his girlfriend.

Residents are reminded to remove valuable items from their cars and to lock all doors, both at home and in the car. Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact Zerbe Township Police at 797-4637.

Theft charges

NORTH MANHEIM TOWNSHIP - Benjamin Neidlinger, 20, of Cumbola, and Mattie Santangelo, 19, of Mount Carmel, face theft-related charges in connection with an incident at 12:10 a.m. Sunday at Bill's Produce along Long Run Road in this Schuylkill County township.

State police at Schuylkill Haven reported Neidlinger and Santangelo began loading five tractor-trailer rims and two metal poles into a Land Rover Discovery before being confronted by the owner of the business, who called police.

Hit-and-run crash occurs in Monroe

A hit-and-run accident took place at 1:51 a.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Main Street and Berwick Drive in Monroe Borough, police said.

A vehicle left the roadway and traveled through a residence's front yard, striking a light pole, state police at Towanda said.

Burglary occurs in Asylum Twp.

A burglary took place at a residence on Liberty Corners Road in Asylum Township, where a 56-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman live, police said.

The burglars, whose identity is unknown, stole jewelry and sterling silver flatware, police said.

The burglary occurred sometime between Aug. 1 and Nov. 8, state police at Towanda said.

Vandalism occurs in N. Towanda

State police said they are trying to determine who damaged the lock on the front door of Steve Shannon Tire and Auto Service Center on U.S. Route 6 in North Towanda Township.

Sometime between 5 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. Monday, a vandal or vandals filled the lock full of super glue, police said.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the state police at Towanda at (570) 265-2186.

Access device fraud

State police at Towanda plan to file charges against a Milan man accused of using a gas card belonging to the East Smithfield Ambulance Association for personal use.

According to information from state police, Christopher Michael Fisk, 23, admitted to using the card at the Dandy Mini Mart in Smithfield Township without the association's permission. Charges will be filed in district court, police said.

Juvenile cited for harassment

State police recently charged a 16-year-old Gillett juvenile with harassment.

According to information from state police at Towanda, the male juvenile shoved an adult female victim with both hands during a Jan. 19 argument at a residence on Pelton Place in Ridgebury Township.

Gillett woman charged

State police recently charged a Gillett woman with harassment following an argument in Ridgebury Township.

According to information from state police at Towanda, Amber Smith, 29, struck a 74-year-old female victim in the arm during an argument Jan. 19 at a Berwick Turnpike location. Smith was charged in district court, police said.

Two charged in dispute

State police at Towanda recently charged two Milan residents with harassment following a dispute in Smithfield Township.

According to state police information, Theodore Smith, 51, and Elizabeth Smith, 31, were charged following a Jan. 8 argument in which the two exchanged physical contact at a Milan Road location. Both were charged in district court, police said.

Police seek actor in theft

State police at Towanda seek an unknown actor accused of removing items from a shed in Sheshequin Township.

According to information from state police, the actor or actors pried off a padlock on a shed on West Warner Hill Road sometime between Dec. 29 and Jan. 18. Once inside, the actor or actors removed a Toro push mower, yard tools, hand tools and a metal tool box, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at (570) 265-2186.

Criminal contempt charge

A Sayre man was recently arrested by Tioga County, N.Y. sheriff's deputies on a charge of criminal contempt.

According to information from the sheriff's office, Travis M. Ruvolo, 21, was charged following investigation into an order of protection violation. Police said Ruvolo violated a no-contact order by contacting the complainant 13 times by cell phone.

Ruvolo was arraigned in Village of Waverly court following his Jan. 21 arrest and was remanded to the Tioga County Jail in lieu of $2,500 bail or $5,000 bond.

LACKAWANNA COUNTY COURT NOTES

MARRIAGE LICENSES

n Jack Robert Neuls, Dun­more, and Shalal Ortiz-Guante Maher, Scranton.

n Robert Culum Philbin and Kristen Elizabeth Kempf, both of Scranton.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

n Citizens Savings Bank, Clarks Summit, to Robert Paul Meyers, Scranton; a property at 1002 Acker Ave., Scranton, for $45,000.

n Vincent J. Vanston, per his attorney-in-fact Vincent J. Van­ston Jr., Clarks Summit, to Chris­tine Golden, Throop; three parcels in Dunmore for $243,000.

n Edward T. and Tara M. Rosar, Carbondale, to MLG Real Estate LLC, Waymart; a property at 45 Salem Ave., Carbon­dale, for $133,000.

n Edward and Anna Scahill, Clarks Summit, to Vincent N. and Ellen Cruciani-Sica, Fairfax Station, Va.; a property at 104 Laurel Lane, Clarks Summit, for $215,000.

n Ellen R. Benasutti, Clarks Summit, to Anthony J. Borgia III and Adrienne A. Gwynn, as joint tenants with rights of survivorship, Clarks Summit; a property at 514 Haven Lane, Clarks Sum­mit, for $151,000.

n Michael Richard Walko, also known as Michael R. Walko, and Ellen Anne Walko, also known as Ellen Walko, Scott Twp., to Johanna R. and Eric N. Davis, Clarks Summit; five parcels in Scott Twp. for $150,500.

n Michael Petsko, Taylor, to Lisa Gilbride, Clarks Summit; a property at 1309 McKenna Court, Dunmore, for $28,000.

n Monica S. and William J. Calpin, Waverly, and Jessie A. Makowski, to Erin L. Nissley, Dunmore; a property at 647 Carmalt St., Dickson City, for $92,000.

n Lauri Novick, executrix of the estate of Roberta G. Novick, Glenburn Twp., to Robert J. and Terri F. Smith, Clarks Green; a property at 1003 Chapin Drive, Glenburn Twp., for $210,000.

n Homeward Residential Inc., attorney-in-fact for Wells Fargo Bank, Coppell, Texas, to David G. and Denise Caswell, Spring Brook Twp.; a property at 629 Stafford Ave., Scranton, for $25,000.

n Victor Francone and Gemma Baiges, Scranton, to Michael G. Walsh and Gayle Parker, Scranton; two parcels in Scranton for $155,000.

n USA HUD, Washington, D.C., to Michael S. Cleary; a property at 618 Lincoln St., Dickson City, for $65,000.

n Joel D. Filipek and Jennifer Filipek, now known as Jennifer Suprick, both of Glenburn Twp., to Jeffrey and Katie Goldovich, Dalton; a property at 1315 Fords Pond Road, Glenburn Twp., for $395,000.

n Diane Freeman, executrix of the estate of Madeline Kucz, Scranton, to John Price Sr. and Maryann Race, Scranton; a property in Scranton for $32,000.

n Aaron G. Ziemba, Old Forge, to Jason P. Tansley, Old Forge; a property at 1142 Aus­tin St., Old Forge, for $65,000.

DIVORCE SOUGHT

n Frederick Gartner, Goulds­boro, v. Tamara V. Ivanova, Gouldsboro; married May 18, 2002, in Stroudsburg; pro se.

DIVORCE DECREES

n Robin Mang v. Michael Mang

n Domnick Lalli v. Tammy Lalli

n Chandra Mrozik v. Krzysztof Mrozik

n Sean O'Connor v. Kim Musewicz O'Connor

n Theresa Demyan v. William Demyan

n Wayne A. Scritchfield v. Kim L. Scritchfield

n Lori A. Kishbaugh v. Robert L. Kishbaugh

n Richard Bronson v. Alice Bronson

n Stanya Fox v. Thomas Fox Sr.

n Debra J. McClain v. Richard L. McClain

n Jacklyn Cote v. Daniel Ruben Cote

n Heather Burns v. David Burns

n William A. Burnell v. Alex­andra C. Burnell

n Celeste Acosta Perez v. Hermas Castellanos Perez

n Alan A. Panek v. Katrina Panek

LAWSUITS

n Eugene Antoniotti, 109 GC Smith St., Elmhurst Twp., v. Russell Lang, 620 Gardner Road, Elmhurst Twp.; seeking in excess of the jurisdictional limit regarding arbitration referral by local rule, plus interest and costs, for injuries suffered March 19 in an automobile crash on state Route 435; Kevin M. Conaboy, attorney.

n Jennifer and Perry Kraft, 63 Hospital St., Carbondale, v. L-B Nails, Plaza 1500, 1570 Main St., Peckville; seeking in excess of the jurisdictional limit regarding arbitration referral by local rule, plus interest and costs on two counts, for injuries suffered May 12, when Mrs. Kraft's foot was cut while receiving a pedicure at the salon; Edwin A. Abrahamsen Jr., attorney.

ESTATES FILED

n John A. Veltri Jr., 318 George St., Throop, letters testamentary to Andrea Riccardo, 312 Butler St., Dunmore.

n Blanche Helen Bestrycki, also known as Blanche H. Bestrycki, 2309 Stafford Ave., Scranton, letters testamentary to Raymond S. Godek, 17 Lake Louis Drive, Moscow.

n Yolanda Salvatore, 209 Main St., Childs, letters of admin­istration to James Salva­tore, 95 42nd St., Carbondale, and Carmella Salvatore, by her attorney-in-fact Michael Edmunds, Box 110W, RD 2, Forest City.

n Elizabeth T. Davis, 614 Oak St., Old Forge, letters testamentary to Leah Davis Dean, 52 Shet­land Lane, Willingboro, N.J., Beth Ann Hallett, 713 Beech St., Scranton, and Lori J. Davis Smith, 656 Oak Hill Road, Moosic.

n Rosemary Pettinato, 19 Darte Ave., Carbondale, letters testamentary to Theresa Baker, 6 Sleepy Hollow Road, Waymart.

n Dorothy G. Jenkins, also known as Dorothy R. Jenkins, 1 Lake Scranton Road, Apt. 308, Lutherwood Apartments, Scran­ton, letters testamentary to Jerome R. Patrick Jr., 302 Hem­lock Drive, Clarks Summit.

n Betty E. Kelley, 41 Red Oak Lane, Jefferson Twp., letters testamentary to Brian Kelley, 17 Canna Road, Levittown.

n Julia Pitoniak, 522 First Ave., Jessup, letters testamentary to Loretta DePietro, 518 First Ave., Jessup.

n Marie Boylan Gatto, 518 Pancoast St., Dickson City, letters of administration to Marie Kolonick, 621 E. Lackawanna St., Olyphant.

n Mildred E. Walosin, HC 1, Box 163, Thornhurst, letters of administration to Steve K. Walosin, P.O. Box 201, Moscow.

n Edward Peck Sr., 3256 Birney Ave., Scranton, letters testamentary to Elaine A. Peck, same address.

bench warrants

The following bench warrants, were issued by Judge Vito Geroulo for failure to appear fines, costs and restitution:

n Luis A. Roman, 911 W. Market St., First Floor, Scran­ton; $1,469.50.

n Donna Reese, 1508 Ross Ave., Scranton; $773.50.

n Christpoher J. Rutkowski, 94 Belmont St., Carbondale; $4,693.85.

n Brian Timothy Robinson, 625 Hemlock St., Apt. 3, Scranton; $2,055.85.

n Jesica Rodriguez, 904 Albright Ave., First Floor, Scran­ton; $1,401.50.

n Michael Propes, 188 W. Parker St., Scranton; $323.

n Michael Stanley Sczyrek Jr., 976 Chase Road, Shavertown; $743.50.

n Stephanie Schwenk, 56 Pocono Manor Drive, Goulds­boro; $1,560.

n Hugo Saanchez, 1712 Pitts­ton Ave., Scranton; $1,685.

n Francisco Salazar, 207 Oak St., Scranton; $2,603.50.

n Nanci E. Purcell, 512 Shady Lane Road, South Abington Twp.; $1,048.50.

n Robert Justin Roman, 509 River St., Scranton; $8,630.51.

n Fanklin Justiniano-Ramos, 1038 Genet St., Apt. 13D, Scran­ton; $1,053.50.

For failure to comply fines and costs:

n Hannah Mackaliunas, 622 Wheeler Ave., Apt. 2, Scranton; $1,880.13.

n Jason Rivera Lugo, 623 E. Elm St., Scranton; $1,821.50.

n Christian Lugo, 608 W. Locust St., Apt. 1, Scranton; $2,550.50.

n Betty Mae Lucke, 825 S. Webster Ave., Second Floor, Scranton; $4,040.50.

ONLINE: thetimes-tribune.com/courts

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

John Bernard Petrovich (co-executor), Pennsylvania Trust Co. (co-executor) and Lucille Petrovich (estate) to Mark M. Sosna for $93,000; Hazleton.

Frank Russo and Rose Russo to Anna Farthing for $130,000; Jenkins Township.

Michael G. Panisak, Shannon Dolon Panisak and Shannon Dolon to Aaron Mishoe for $198,000; Harveys Lake.

Matthew Bain to Steven M. Regner and Shannon A. Regner for $139,000; West Wyoming.

David J. Peters and M. Deborah Vilegi-Peters to SA Reality Inc. for $259,900; Fairview Township.

Carolyn G. Basler and John R. Basler to Joseph T. Saracino and Deborah A. Saracino for $250,000; Penn Lake Park.

Frank Egidio and Jean Edigio to Laureen Bachkosky for $123,000; Laflin.

Ross J. Cianflone III and Jill M. Cianflone to Mary Gadomski for $94,000; Laflin.

Hi-Pines Inc. to Marquerite E. Dewees for $130,000; Dallas.

Willow Views Homes Inc. to Ricky J. Sabbatini and Debbie E. Sabbatini for $79,000; Jenkins Township.

Wells Fargo Bank (trustee/per attorney in fact) and Bank of America (attorney in fact) to Jesse T. Getz and Karen E. Getz for $145,000; Hughestown.

Edwin Allen Balliet Jr. to William Michael Kriebel and Tammy Jean Kriebel for $110,000; Nuangola.

AVOCA POLICE: Officers responded to more than 30 calls between Jan. 15-21.

On Jan. 15, officers were dispatched to investigate a lewdness complaint in the 600 block of Main Street. Officers also issued a protection from abuse order on Vine Street.

On Jan. 16, officers were dispatched to investigate a theft complaint in a home on Cherry Street.

On Jan. 17, no police activity was reported.

On Jan. 18, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a suspicious person in the 900 block of Main Street. Officers responded to assist a disabled motorist on William Street. Police also issued numerous traffic citations on Main Street.

On Jan. 19, officers were dispatched to investigate a violation of a protection from abuse order in a home on Vine Street. One man was arrested. Officers also responded to 911 hang-up calls in homes on Grove, Plane and Spring streets.

On Jan. 20, officers were dispatched to investigate a domestic dispute in a home in the 500 block of Main Street. A civil dispute sent officers to a home in the 900 block of Main Street.

On Jan. 21, officers were dispatched to investigate a threats complaint in the 700 block of Main Street. A motor vehicle accident sent officers to York Avenue. A similar call sent officers to Vine Street.

OLD FORGE POLICE: Officers responded to more than 35 calls between Jan. 13-20.

On Jan. 13, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of suspicious activity in the 100 block of Apache Drive. A noise complaint sent officers to the 200 block of South Main Street.

On Jan. 14, officers were dispatched to investigate a dispute between a landlord and a tenant in the 500 block of Maple Street. An activated alarm sent officers to the 900 block of West Oak Street. Officers were dispatched to investigate a theft from a vehicle in the 100 block of Church Street.

Officers conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of Moosic Road. One person was arrested. A report of a disorderly man sent officers to the 800 block of Moosic Road. The individual was arrested.

On Jan. 15, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a disorderly man in the 300 block of Marion Street. A reported hit-and-run accident sent officers to the 300 block of West Mary Street. Officers were dispatched to investigate a theft complaint in the 1200 block of Bennet Street. A similar call sent officers to a home on Connell Street.

On Jan. 16, officers were dispatched to investigate a reported civil complaint in the 100 block of Broadhead Street. A scam complaint sent officers to a home in the 100 block of South Main Street. Officers responded to assist the Taylor police with a call in the 100 block of Kennedy Boulevard.

Officers responded to assist a disabled motorist in the 100 block of South Keyser Avenue. An activated alarm sent officers to the 100 block of Louis Industrial Drive. Officers also responded to investigate a property damage complaint in the 500 block of Milwaukee Avenue.

On Jan. 17, officers were dispatched to investigate a verbal domestic dispute in a home in the 100 block of South Keyser Avenue. A forgery complaint sent officers to a home in the 300 block of Marion Street.

On Jan. 18, officers were dispatched to investigate a custody issue in the 200 block of James Street.

On Jan. 19, officers were dispatched to investigate a harassment complaint in the 900 block of South Main Street. A domestic dispute sent officers to a home in the 100 block of Oak Street. A similar call sent officers to a home in the 100 block of Sussex Street. Officers conducted a traffic stop in the 900 block of South Main Street. One person was arrested.

Officers also responded to a domestic dispute in a home in the 200 block of West Mary Street. One person was arrested.

On Jan. 20, officers were dispatched to investigate a reported domestic dispute in the 400 block of Milwaukee Avenue. A report of an attempted burglary sent officers to the 600 block of Oak Street. Officers responded to investigate a reported assault in the 100 block of North Keyser Avenue. Officers responded to investigate a reported theft from a vehicle complaint in the 500 block of George Street. A similar call sent officers to the 200 block of Pine Street.

TAYLOR POLICE: Officers responded to 80 calls between Jan. 14-20.

On Jan. 14, officers were dispatched to assist domestic relations with serving a warrant in the 500 block of Oak Street. A reported assault sent officers to a home in the 100 block of West Taylor Street. Officers also responded to investigate a harassment complaint in a home on Kennedy Boulevard.

On Jan. 15, officers were dispatched to investigate a retail theft at the Walmart on Main Street. A custody dispute sent officers to a home in the 100 block of Union Street. Officers also responded to investigate a threats complaint at Riverside Elementary West.

On Jan. 16, officers were dispatched to a domestic dispute on Kennedy Boulevard. A threats complaint sent officers to a home in the 200 block of Tamworth Drive.

On Jan. 17, officers were dispatched to investigate a retail theft complaint at the Price Chopper on Main Street.

On Jan. 18, officers were dispatched to investigate a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Keyser Avenue and Union Street.

On Jan. 19, officers were dispatched to investigate a reported fight on Roosevelt Drive. A disorderly conduct complaint sent officers to a home in the 100 block of Storrs Street. Officers also responded to investigate a harassment complaint in the 100 block of El Circle Drive.

On Jan. 20, officers were dispatched to investigate a theft by deception complaint at the Walmart on Main Street. A harassment complaint sent officers to a home on Kennedy Boulevard.

MOOSIC POLICE: Officers responded to more than 130 calls between Jan. 6-19.

On Jan. 6, officers were dispatched to investigate a reported thefts from a motor vehicle in the 3400 and 3500 block of Birney Avenue. A domestic dispute sent officers to the 500 block of Fassold Street. Officers responded to investigate a reported retail theft in the 3500 block of Birney Avenue.

A report of a stolen purse sent officers to the 1000 block of Shoppes Boulevard. Officers responded to an activated alarm in the 100 block of Glenmaura Drive. A road hazard sent officers to the 300 block of Spring Street.

Officers responded to assist the fire department with a call at the Gerrity's Supermarket on Birney Avenue. Officers also responded to investigate a report of a disorderly person in a home on Radcliffe Drive.

On Jan. 7, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a motor vehicle accident on Glenmaura National Boulevard. A theft complaint sent officers to the 3500 block of Birney Avenue.

On Jan. 8, officers were dispatched to investigate an activated alarm in the 1000 block of Water Street.

On Jan. 9, officers were dispatched to investigate a motor vehicle accident in the 200 block of Spring Street. A report of a suspicious vehicle sent officers to Stone Crest Court. Officers also responded to conduct a welfare check in the 500 block of Orchard Street.

On Jan. 10, officers were dispatched to investigate a motor vehicle accident on Davis Street. An activated alarm sent officers to a home on Honor Park.

On Jan. 11, officers were dispatched to conduct a lockdown drill at Riverside Elementary East.

On Jan. 12, officers were dispatched to investigate an activated burglar alarm on Glenmaura National Boulevard. A report of a suspicious vehicle sent officers to the 3500 block of Winefield Avenue. Officers responded to investigate a nuisance complaint in the 1000 block of Water Street.

A reported sexual assault sent officers to a home in the 600 block of Minooka Avenue. Officers were dispatched to serve a protection from abuse order in a home in the 600 block of Minooka Avenue.

On Jan. 14, officers were dispatched to investigate an illegal dumping complaint at the Birney Plaza. A criminal mischief complaint sent officers to the 500 block of Orchard Street.

On Jan. 15, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a suspicious vehicle in the 900 block of Springbrook Avenue.

On Jan. 16, officers were dispatched to investigate a nuisance complaint in the 4000 block of Birney Avenue.

A report of an erratic driver sent officers to Birney Avenue. Officers responded to investigate a noise complaint in the 400 block of Hudson Street.

On Jan. 17, officers were dispatched to investigate a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Main Street and Lonesome Road. Similar calls sent officers to the intersection of Corey Street and Birney Avenue, and Main and Third streets.

Officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a man on fire in the 800 block of Eighth Street. A motor vehicle accident sent officers to the 1000 block of Springbrook Avenue. A report of a disorderly man sent officers to Montage Mountain Road.

On Jan. 18, officers were dispatched to investigate a retail theft complaint in the 3500 block of Birney Avenue. A report of a suspicious person sent officers to the 600 block of Minooka Avenue. Officers also responded to investigate a complaint of juveniles causing a disturbance in the area of Main and Grace streets.

On Jan. 19, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a motor vehicle accident in the 200 block of Montage Mountain Road. A similar call sent officers to the 1000 block of Shoppes Boulevard.

Scranton Tax Collector Bill Courtright is widely expected to announce his candidacy for mayor at a campaign kickoff rally Sunday, but getting him to admit it proved impossible Thursday.

"I'm not saying until Sunday," Mr. Courtright, a Democrat, said.

Theoretically, Mr. Courtright, 55, of 126 Ridgeview Drive, could announce that he's running for re-election as tax collector because that office is on the ballot this year, too. But with Mayor Chris Doherty out of the contest, Mr. Courtright would confound local political observers if he announced a candidacy for anything but mayor.

For one thing, Mr. Courtright was rumored to be running for mayor even if Mr. Doherty ran. For another, he bought a sticker advertisement on the front page of the city editions of The Times-Tribune today to invite people to his rally. Buying such an advertisement is something he did not do when he ran for tax collector four years ago.

The rally is from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Keyser Valley Community Center with a $10 campaign donation as admission.

City Democratic Chairman John Murray said Mr. Courtright invited him to attend. Mr. Murray said he won't attend, because he has to stay neutral in advance of a city Democratic Party endorsement meeting, but he sounded like Mr. Courtright's plans are no mystery under the circumstances.

"I think he's going to announce he's running for mayor," Mr. Murray said.

Unless someone else announces before Sunday, Mr. Courtright will become the first Democrat to enter the race. Republican Marcel J. Lisi, 24, announced his candidacy earlier this week.

Joseph P. Cardamone, 60, a Democrat and a former city community development director under Mayor Jim Connors in the early 1990s, said Thursday he is seriously considering a run for council or mayor but isn't sure which.

Mr. Doherty announced earlier this month he would not seek a fourth term, clearing a major obstacle for any potential successor. Although the mayor would have had to run amid a big tax hike and the potential for more hikes in the next few years, he proved a prodigious fundraiser over the years. In 2005, during his first re-election campaign, he raised $933,000, an amount many times higher than almost everyone who ever ran for the office.

Contact the writer: bkrawczeniuk@ timesshamrock.com

LACKAWANNA COUNTY COURT NOTES

MARRIAGE LICENSES

n Eric David Havenstrite and Karen Louise Harper, both of Scranton.

n Charles John Piekanski and Rebecca Marie Hizny, both of Throop.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

n Eleanor R. Fletcher Irrevoc­able Trust, Mindy Boccadori trustee, Olyphant, to Christine Warren, Scott Twp.; a property in Montdale, Scott Twp., for $90,000.

n Judith A. McGovern, Spring Brook Twp., to Alice J. Wood, Moscow; a property at 1024 Route 307, Spring Brook Twp., for $137,000.

n Appletree Management Group Inc., Moscow, to Patrick and Tina Golden, Scranton; a property at 1818 Prospect Ave., Scranton, for $35,700.

n Shannon Grippi, executrix of the estate of Douglas M. Miele Sr., Dunmore, to Andrew N. LaCoe, Scranton; a property at 1059 Cottage Ave., Scranton, for $63,825.

n Cheryl M. and Erika A. Pappa, Greenfield Twp., to James R. Tillotson and Brittany M. Walters, Blakely; a property at 325 Leach Hill Road, South Abington Twp., for $128,900.

n Robert A. Hawk and Barbara McCloe, Scranton, to Colleen A. Campbell, Pocono Summit; a property at 1358 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, for $35,000.

ESTATES FILED

n Catherine Berardelli, 893 Providence Road, Scranton, letters testamentary to Joseph E. Berardelli, 219 Terrace St., Dunmore.

n Ada K. Thomas, 522 Powell Ave., Clarks Summit, letters testamentary to Janice Poteracki, 209 Venard Road, Clarks Summit.

n William C. Sickles, 1511 Newton Ransom Blvd., Clarks Summit, letters testamentary to Mark R. Sickles, P.O. Box 2123, Sarasota, Fla.

n Jeanette R. Lebida, 707 Hallstead St., Dickson City, letters testamentary to Janeen Nieratko, 983 Carmalt St., Dickson City.

n Leonard V. Steenburg, 308 E. Greenwood Ave., Clarks Summit, letters testamentary to Joan A. Girts, same address.

n Margaret Filarsky, 304 Grand Ave., Clarks Summit, letters testamentary to Suz­anne Lisk, 903 Violet Terrace, Clarks Summit; and Michael A. Filarsky, same address.

n Jule Karis, 602 Summit Pointe, Scranton, letters testamentary to Anthony Gustaitis, 108 Yeakel Ave., Glenside.

ONLINE: thetimes-tribune.com/courts

Drug charges

Miranda Marie Hamilton, 22, of Sugar Run has been charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, and criminal use of a communication facility. These charges stem from a April 23 incident in the parking lot of Cargill in Wyalusing Township.

According to police, Hamilton attempted to sell 16 Oxycontin pills for a price of $400.

Hamilton has been released on $1,000 unsecured bail and has a preliminary hearing scheduled on Feb. 19 before Magisterial District Judge Fred Wheaton.

Woman charged in beating

Amanda Lee Hazard-Powell, 29, of Nichols, NY has been charged with simple assault, theft by unlawful taking or disposition, and harassment.

According to police, on Jan. 16 in Windham Township Hazard-Powell barged into a residence and began to strike and push the victim.

After the assault was over, Hazard-Powell stole the victim's iPhone 4s cell phone valued at approximately $600, police said.

Hazard-Powell was remanded to the Bradford County Correctional Facility in lieu of $55,000 bail.

DUI charges

The following people were recently charged with driving while under the influence in Bradford County:

Fred Thomas Arey, 38, of Wyalusing, by state police, on Dec. 31, on State Route 6 in Wyalusing Borough. Arey has also been charged with speeding, careless driving, approaching an oncoming vehicle with high beams, and failure to wear his seatbelt. On the day of his arrest, Arey failed to submit to a blood test. Arey has been sent a summons to appear before Magisterial District Judge Fred Wheaton on Feb. 2 for a preliminary hearing.

Joshua M. Chromiak, 23, of Wind Gap, by state police, on June 6, on Lake Road in Wysox Township. Chromiak has also been charged with leaving his vehicle unattended in the road. A blood test revealed a combination of drugs at levels adequate to impair driving on the day of his arrest. Chromiak has been sent a summons to appear before Magisterial District Judge Fred Wheaton on Feb. 26 for a preliminary hearing.

David James Dudock, 22, of Montrose, by state police, on Jan. 5, on State Route 6 in Wyalusing Township. Dudock has also been charged with driving on roadways laned for traffic, speeding, and careless driving. A blood alcohol test later revealed that Dudock's blood alcohol content was .215 percent on the day of his arrest. Dudock has been sent a summons to appear before Magisterial District Judge Fred Wheaton on Feb. 26 for a preliminary hearing.

Water truck rolls over

A water truck rolled over around 9:14 a.m. Thursday on Porter Road in Troy Township, said a spokesman for the Troy Volunteer Fire Department.

The driver was not injured, and the truck, which came to rest in a yard, was towed.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

Nello Ferretti Jr. and Catherine Ferretti to Sukh LLC for $240,000; Dupont.

Matthew T. Parmeter to Anita Reber for $115,900; Butler Township.

Ruthann Renshaw, George Renshaw, Charlotte Prickett, Elaine Fenlon, H. Evans Hemsath Jr., Michael Patterson, Cheryl Beaver, Deborah Duckett, Richard Renshar and Georgette Brock to John Pellegrino and Andrew Pellegrino for $220,000; Foster Township.

Elvisa Dervisevic and Dzevdet Dervisevic to KH Management Inc. for $100,000; Hazleton.

Charles A. Adonizio III and Karen A. Adonizio to Horizon Investments LLC for $130,000; Pittston.

Phyllis K. Wade to Andrew David Everitt and Maricela Everitt for $123,000; Kingston.

Kimberly Mulhern and Kimberly Naylor to Shawn M. Alexis Jr. and Brittany A. Bigelow for $80,000; Wilkes-Barre.

Burglary

SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP - State police at Stonington are investigating a burglary of a Irish Valley Road home.

Police said someone entered the home of Petrina Byers, of Irish Valley Road, Shamokin, between 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, and 1:15 p.m. Monday. The investigation is continuing, and anyone with information is asked to contact state police at 286-5601.

Domestic assault

SHAMOKIN - Norman J. Bohner, 33, and Angela M. Hopper, 36, both of 505 S. Market St., were charged with simple assault and harassment following a domestic incident at their residence at 4 a.m. Friday.

Shamokin City Police Patrolman William Zalinski reported in court documents the two were involved in an argument that turned physical when Bohner allegedly knocked Hopper onto the bed and the fight continued. Bohner suffered abrasions to his face. Hopper had bruises on her left arm and complained of pain in her right forearm, which was in a cast from a recent surgery.

Both were videoarraigned before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III and released on $10,000 unsecured bail.

Aggravated assault

MAHONING TOWNSHIP - Police charged a 19-year-old male with aggravated assault following a Jan. 18 incident at the North Central Secure Treatment Unit, Hospital Drive, in this Montour County township.

State police at Milton say the suspect, who was not identified by police, allegedly assaulted unit staff members Ronald Bainbridge and Michael Heintzelman at 8:45 a.m. after they corrected him for a dress code violation. The male remains in custody in the unit while the two staff members were transported to Geisinger Medical Center for treatment of various injuries.

Police said the incident remains under investigation.

Drugs

STRONG - Nicholas V. Baccala, 28, of 7604 Bayside Ave., Fort Howard, Md., and Tara T. Yancheski, 39, of 1113 Scott St., Kulpmont, were both charged with drug offenses following a narcotic investigation at 4:04 p.m. Jan. 18.

In court documents filed by Patrolmen David Stamets and Matthew Dillman of the Mount Carmel Township Police and the Northumberland-Montour Drug Task Force, Baccala and Yancheski are accused of selling diazepam, a prescription medication, to a confidential informant, under police surveillance. While being searched, police found a suboxone wrapper, with an orange film inside, identified as suboxone, a prescription medication, in Baccala's wallet, police said.

Baccala was charged with two counts of criminal conspiracy of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Yancheski was charged with two counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, two counts of criminal conspiracy, and charges of criminal use of a communication facility, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under the influence.

Both were taken to Northumberland County Prison on $20,000 bail. Preliminary hearings for both are set for Wednesday, Feb. 6.

Charges waived

MOUNT CARMEL - Kyle J. Knopp, 20, of 331 W. Seventh St., Mount Carmel, waived charges of aggravated assault, simple assault and recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and stalking, during a preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel.

Knopp was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman Kelly Campbell following an incident at a West Girard Street home Dec. 2.

Knopp was ordered to appear for plea court on Monday, Feb. 25, at the Northumberland County Courthouse where he can either plead guilty or no contest, or plead not guilty and seek a trial.

Reckless endangerment

PITMAN - Thomas J. Duran, 24, of 733 Scott St., Kulpmont, and Tyler A. Lenig, 25, of 2993 Lower Road, Shamokin, were both charged with recklessly endangering another person, reckless driving, criminal mischief and careless driving, by state police Trooper Todd Leiby, of the Stonington barracks, following an incident at 1:45 a.m. Jan. 16.

According to court documents, the two men had an altercation at a party, left at the same time and "pursued one another in their vehicles on roadways" in a "road rage type incident." There were passengers in each vehicle, police said.

The charges against both men were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones of Mount Carmel. Preliminary hearings are set for Wednesday. Feb. 27.

Burglary

SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP - Sharon Reichenbach, of Old Turnpike Road, Lewisburg, reported to state police at Stonington that sometime between 7 a.m. Dec. 24 and 5 p.m. Jan. 11, someone entered her barn at 158 Lilac Road by cutting a padlock.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact state police at 286-5601.

Deception

KULPMONT - Borough police charged Ray Vincenzes, 50, of 824 Pine St., Kulpmont, with deceptive business practices, theft by deception and receiving stolen property following an alleged bad business deal in the borough on April 20.

Kulpmont Borough Police Patrolman Joshua Pastucka reported in court documents that Vincenzes allegedly entered a contract with Joan and Stanley Daniels to redo their sidewalk for $1,400. Vincenzes was given a $700 deposit, and he demolished the sidewalk, but never returned to complete the job. Numerous attempts were made to contact Vincenzes with no success.

In a separate case, Pastucka charged Vincenzes with driving under the influence with a blood alcohol level of .16 percent or higher, driving with a suspended license-DUI related, driving with an open container and failure to use turning signals, following a traffic stop at Vincenzes' residence on Dec. 22.

PFA violations

MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - James H. Meredith, 57, of 625 Big Mine Run Road, Ashland, was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police with three PFA violations after communicating with Betty Jean Meredith on Nov. 2, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10.

A hearing on the violation for Dec. 10 was held Friday, with a penalty assessed and satisfied, according to the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website. Hearings for the other two offenses will be held on Thursday at the Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury.

DUI

KULPMONT - Charges of driving under the influence, careless driving and accidents involving damage to unattended property were filed against Ronald Miller, 67, of 1143 Poplar St., Kulpmont.

Kulpmont Police Patrolman Michael Pitcavage filed the charges following an accident in the 1100 block of Poplar Street at 9:01 p.m. Dec. 22.

The charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones of Mount Carmel. A preliminary hearing is set for Wednesday, Feb. 27, before Jones.

Criminal trespass

MOUNT CARMEL - Jodi-Lyn Lowry, 22, of 248 Tomlin Station Rd., Mullica Hill, N.J., was charged with criminal trespass, two counts of disorderly conduct, harassment and public drunkenness following an incident at 10:01 p.m. Dec. 22 at 343 W. Fig St.

According to court documents filed by Borough Police Officer Justin Stelma, Lowry allegedly pushed her way into the residence of Jacqueline Varano, refused to leave and argued with police after being taken into custody.

A preliminary hearing is set for Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel, where the charges were filed.

DUI

EAST CAMERON TOWNSHIP - James R. Edmondson, 38, of 464 Main St., Ashland, was charged with driving under the influence, driving on roadways laned for traffic, driving vehicle at an unsafe speed, careless driving and failure to use restraint systems, following a crash on Route 125 at 2:26 a.m. Dec. 15.

The charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel, by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Mark Adams. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, March 6.

Forgery

MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - Patrolman Kelly Campbell charged Stacy L. Malkoski, 38, of 39 N. Locust St., Mount Carmel, with forgery, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property following the investigation of a stolen check on Nov. 19.

According to court documents, Malkoski allegedly stole a blank check from James Hollenbach, of Mount Carmel, while he was parked in the Boyer's Food Market parking lot. Malkoski is accused of writing it out for $160 and cashing it at a local bank, police said.

The charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel, and a preliminary hearing before Jones is scheduled for Wednesday.

DUI

RUSH TOWNSHIP - Timothy L. Ulrich Jr., of 410 Logan Run Road, Danville, was charged with driving under the influence, driving on the right side of the roadway and careless driving by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Thomas Leib in relation to an accident at Bowden Road at 4:10 a.m. Dec. 17.

The charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 20, before Jones.

Disorderly conduct

KULPMONT - Two counts of disorderly conduct and a charge of harassment were filed against Rebecca Jo Vanbrocklin, 27, of 1426 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, following a noise complaint at her home at 7:35 p.m. Dec. 30.

The charges were filed by Kulpmont Police Patrolman Cade Holden with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel. A preliminary hearing before Jones is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 27.

DUI

ELYSBURG - Matthew L. Patterson, 36, of 14 E. Mill St., was charged with driving under the influence and careless driving by Ralpho Township Police Officer Stephen Spade following a traffic stop on Route 54 on Sept. 17. Charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones, of Mount Carmel, and a preliminary hearing is set for Wednesday, Feb. 27.