Newark police officer Bobby Hartless has been removed from patrol and placed on administrative assignment for allegedly threatening to ticket FedEx employees.  The 37-year-old Hartless apparently became upset after a package was not delivered to his home earlier this month.  Sergeant Scott Snow tells KOOL 101.7 News that Hartless has been reassigned to the records and communications department. 

UNITED WAY BREAKFAST

The Licking County United Way held its annual Recognition and Report Breakfast Friday morning at Cherry Valley Lodge.  During the breakfast it was announced that to date a little over $1.9 million has been raised for the 2011-2012 Campaign.  Executive Director Donna Carpenter thanked the hard work put forth by Campaign Chairman Jay Young and his committee.  

Licking County United Way Executive Director Donna Carpenter 

Carpenter said a final dollar amount would be released later this year.  The goal for this year’s Campaign was $2 million so there is still a chance they could exceed that figure.

SUSPECT CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS

The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office is on the hunt for a bank robbery suspect considered armed and dangerous.  Billy Caudill is accused of robbing the People’s Bank located at 55 North High Street in Carroll on Wednesday, January 25.  The 43-year-old Caudill is believed to be in the Lancaster or Athens area.  Anyone who comes in contact with Caudill is urged to call their local authorities. 

DROP IN CRIME

According to the Newark Police Department, the city saw a decrease in the amount of crime overall in 2011 compared to 2010. Of the 8 major crime categories, only breaking and entering and arson offenses saw an increase.  Police Chief Steven Sarver attributes the decrease to a better economy, an excellent police presence and...  

NPD Chief Steven Sarver

The number of reported traffic crashes also dropped in 2011, although the number of arrests for OVI increased by 30 arrests.

ARREST MADE IN GAS STATION ROBBERY

A 32-year-old Newark man is being held on $50,000 bond accused of robbing a local gas station.  On Wednesday January, 18 Brian Bowman allegedly entered the Speedway at 1280 North 21^st Street demanding money and cigarettes.  He told the female clerk he had a gun in his pocket. The clerk ran into the store's back office, locked the door and called police.  Bowman left with four cartons of cigarettes, valued at $120.  His case will next be heard by a grand jury for possible indictment. 

REDUCING YOUR CANCER RISK

There's another reason to keep that New Year's resolution to improve your eating habits and increase your physical activity.  The American Cancer Society says taking those steps will significantly lower your cancer risk. This month, the ACS has updated its guidelines on cancer prevention.  Denise Kolba explains the connection between obesity, body chemistry, and cancer risks.  

Denise Kolba with the American Cancer Society

By many estimates, about 25 percent of Ohioans are obese, and more than 33 percent are overweight.  Kolba says no matter what your age or weight, you can still lower your cancer risk. 

HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS

Central Ohio sportsmen and women who are interested in becoming Hunter Education Instructors are encouraged to register for a training workshop in Columbus.  The workshop will take place on Saturday, March 10 and Sunday, March 11, from 8:00a-5:00p each day.  Training will be held at the Ohio Wildlife District One office located on Dublin Road in Columbus.  There is no cost to participate in the workshop. Visit www.wildohio.com for more information.

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