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Several major developments across northeast Ohio this week highlight ongoing issues tied to crime, public safety, and community response.

In Akron, a man has been sentenced after police seized significant amounts of illegal drugs. Rolnathan Bullock, 57, was classified as a major drug offender after officers recovered nearly three pounds of meth, an amount of heroin roughly the size of a baseball, and two pounds of cocaine. He was sentenced to nearly 17 years in prison.

Drug-related arrests were also reported in Stark County. Authorities in Canton say two people have been arrested following an ongoing drug investigation. Deputies seized multiple firearms, cocaine, and psychedelic mushrooms, and more charges are expected as the investigation continues.

A separate high-profile case out of Cleveland resulted in a lengthy prison term. Christion Yarnell Sims, 24, will spend 19 years behind bars for robbing two armored cash trucks last year. Prosecutors say Sims and others threatened workers at gunpoint as they loaded ATMs, making off with more than $336,000.

In Medina County, a sentencing brought emotional closure to a disturbing case involving a child. Walter Jenkins, 61, of Wadsworth, was sentenced to life in prison for crimes against a 6-year-old girl in his care. Prosecutors praised the child’s courage for speaking up. Jenkins will be eligible for parole after 15 years.

Meanwhile, federal investigators continue to unravel a massive financial crime in northwest Ohio. A former Toledo investment adviser, James Delverne, has pleaded guilty for his role in a $72 million Ponzi scheme connected to Northwest Capital. Prosecutors say investors were misled for nearly a decade through manipulated funds and falsified statements. Delverne is the third defendant to plead guilty as the case moves forward.

Not all the news this week was tied to crime. In Akron, One of a Kind Pet Rescue shared a bright spot after rescuing dozens of chihuahuas during a long-distance operation carried out in heavy rain on Jan. 14. The dogs are now safe and receiving medical care. The rescue is asking for donations to help cover treatment costs.

Police in Fairlawn also addressed community concerns this week, pushing back against false social media claims about ICE activity in the city. Authorities say there are no raids or surveillance operations underway. What residents may have seen was routine public safety training at a vacant property.

On the courts front, a new statewide report is raising concerns about delays in Ohio’s court system. The report cites scheduling conflicts, missed court dates, and slow transcript preparation as common causes. Recommendations include firmer deadlines and increased use of mediation to keep cases moving more efficiently.

And finally, Summit County leaders shared an update on mental health funding. County Executive Ilene Shapiro says a sudden $2 million federal cut to mental health and addiction services has been fully reversed. Local services remain available, and anyone needing help is encouraged to contact the ADM Helpline or call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

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Tina Heiberg

Tina Heiberg

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