A LENGTHY PRISON SENTENCE

A former Thornville man is heading to prison for a very long time for sexually exploiting at least four minor victims. Earlier this year, Shannon McTighe, 46, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography. According to court documents, McTighe possessed 300,000 images and videos of child pornography on his electronic devices including images of him sexually abusing four minors. McTighe was sentenced to 40 years behind bars.

HOUSE FIRE

A fire at a vacant home in New Albany kept crews busy Wednesday morning. According to officials, shortly after 7:00 a.m., multiple departments responded to the scene in the 7900 block of New Albany Condit Road and upon arrival saw smoke and flames coming from the home. Firefighters remained on the scene for a number of hours. No injuries were reported. The cause is under investigation.

LOCAL HEROES LUNCHEON

The Licking County Board of Realtors Community Service Committee held a special luncheon Wednesday to honor local heroes like first responders, teachers and veterans. Committee Co-Chair Amey Wilkinson was more than happy to help organize the event.

Wednesday's luncheon was held at the Canal Market District in downtown Newark.

STORM RELIEF

Governor DeWine has authorized the use of the State Disaster Relief Program to support 13 counties that were significantly impacted by severe storms that occurred from March 11-16. Licking, Coshocton, Knox and Perry counties are among the counties to receive support. The State Disaster Relief Program is a reimbursement program that can be used in instances where storm damage amounts do not meet the threshold for federal assistance but do meet state program requirements.

FLOCK CAMERAS

The Knox County Sheriff’s Office has announced that they will not pursue or install flock cameras in the county at this time. In a press release, Sheriff Daniel Weckesser said his decision comes after a careful review of the technology, how it would be used in the county, and feedback received from residents.

RULES FOR OIL & GAS

Ohio’s rules for the oil and gas industry, including permits, prevention of contamination and pollution, and safety regulations are up for review every five years.

Becca Pollard, executive director, Buckeye Environmental Network, and others argue changes to the state’s energy landscape over the past few years demand more scrutiny of the rules and better enforcement. State regulators want to keep the process the same.