315 Felonies for Child Porn
Sharpsville – A Mercer County man faces over 300 felony charges for the possession and dissemination of child pornography. Ryan Marinoff of Sharpsville was arrested by the Pennsylvania State and South Pymatuning Police has been charged with 300 counts of possession of child pornography, 14 counts of dissemination of those images, and an additional count for criminal use of a communication facility. Authorities allege that since 2021 the 46-year-old used Kik Messenger to trade images of children with other people over the internet. Marinoff was once on the sex offender registry but was removed in 2015.
Venango Chamber Citizen of the Year: Vince Witherup
Franklin – The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2023 Citizen of the Year. Vince Witherup will have that honor bestowed upon him during the Venango Chamber’s annual dinner on Wednesday, February 21st. In a recent press release, the chamber summarized their choice by calling Mr. Witherup “the embodiment of an exemplary citizen, possessing natural leadership skills, a genuine interest in others, and a strong desire to give back to the community.”
Mr. Witherup is an Eagle Scout and has mentored young scouts in their journey to advance through the ranks, he is a lifelong member of the Elk’s Club, a member of the Franklin Industrial and Commercial Development Authority, and an honoree of the Plastic Pioneers Hall of Fame for his role in turning Conair into an international company; those are only a few of the achievements and services for which the Chamber is honoring Vince Witherup. The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 at Cross Creek Resort and is open to the public. To make reservations contact the Chamber.
Burglary Investigation
Girard – The Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a burglary near the borough of Girard and asking for help from the public. Last Thursday, December 14th, residents of a home on Cross Station Road reported the theft of $1,500 cash, two XBox game consoles, and a pair of golden earrings. Anyone with information about the theft should call the Pennsylvania State Police in Girard at (814)774-9611.
Weather Affects Travel and Schools
NWPA – PennDOT has reduced the speed limits on Interstates 79 and 90 in Erie County to 45 miles per hour due to winter weather causing slippery surfaces and poor visibility. At press time a number of school districts are operating on two hour delays due to the weather, Operation Weather Alert has details.
Time is Running Out for PENNIE Enrollment
Pennsylvania – Open enrollment for purchasing policies on Pennsylvania’s insurance exchange PENNIE is still open until January 15th. Any policies purchased between now and the end date will not begin until February 2024. There’s still plenty of time to register for PENNIE and compare policies for you and your family by visiting PENNIE.com or by calling (1-844)440-4440.