REYNOLDSBURG WOMAN IS HEADING TO PRISON

Tammra Straughter, the Reynoldsburg woman convicted in the death of a five-month-old boy, learned her fate Wednesday. Straughter was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 15 years. In October 2023, Straughter was watching the infant at her home daycare when he was rushed to the hospital. Doctors determined the baby suffered physical abuse and shaken baby syndrome.

NEW LEX MAN IS SENTENCED

A 42-year-old New Lexington man is heading to prison for sexually assaulting a woman. A Muskingum County jury convicted Shawn Hale of kidnapping and gross sexual imposition in connection with an incident earlier this year that was captured on video by the victim. Hale was sentenced to 11 years in prison and ordered to register as a Tier I sex offender.

BARN FIRE

The investigation continues into a large barn fire in Muskingum County. According to authorities, Tuesday around 7:00 p.m., multiple fire departments responded to Wilson Dairy Farm on Clay Pike and upon arrival saw smoke and flames coming from the barn. No injuries were reported. The barn is a complete loss.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

During this week's National Fire Prevention Week, fire officials are reminding Ohioans about the importance of having working smoke alarms in their home.

Anita Metheny, with State Fire Marshal's Office, said having a fire extinguisher is another way to keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire.

POKER RUN

Fire up the bikes Saturday and head over to Jugz Tavern in Newark.

Ashley Washburn, executive director, Family Health Services of East Central Ohio, said Saturday's poker run gets underway at 11:00 a.m. For more information on the poker run visit the Jugz Tavern Facebook page.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED

The Granville Turkey Trot is quickly approaching and organizers are looking for volunteers to help with registration, road coverage and passing out water at the turn-around. The annual Thanksgiving day fundraiser supports the Food Pantry Network of Licking County and its mission of helping fight hunger in our community. For more information visit www.granvilleturkeytrot.com.