COLUMBUS, Ohio — A federal jury has convicted a southern Ohio man of child pornography crimes that included both real videos depicting the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers and photorealistic images of child sexual abuse generated by artificial intelligence. Cody L. Prater, 28, of McArthur, was found guilty Thursday on all four counts of […]
Posted inLocal News
Ross Co. Sheriff Crime Log – February 5, 2026
The Ross County Sheriff’s Office reported a busy day on February 5, 2026, with a variety of incidents, including motor vehicle accidents, thefts, cases involving mental health, and non-criminal complaints. Among the day’s activities were investigations into disorderly conduct, domestic disputes, and incidents involving minors. The law enforcement officers responded to both traffic infractions and […]
Posted inChillicothe, Local News, Ross County
Ohio deputies turn to Uber after 41 patrol cars repossessed
ELYRIA, Ohio— Deputies in Lorain County are scrambling to respond to emergency calls after 41 patrol cars are set to be repossessed due to a default on a vehicle fleet loan, forcing law enforcement to consider unconventional transportation options like ride-sharing services, such as Uber. The Lorain County Deputies Association issued a press release criticizing […]
Posted inLocal News
Ohio University Police probe threat over Turning Point USA visit
ATHENS, Ohio — The Ohio University Police Department is investigating a potential terroristic threat made via social media against members of Turning Point USA during a campus event, according to police records and a public notice issued Tuesday. The incident was reported on Monday, February 2, when members of the conservative student group told officers […]
Posted inLocal News
Repeat sex offender pleads guilty to exploiting minor he met through Call of Duty
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Texas man pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court in Columbus to attempted kidnapping and sexual exploitation of a minor he met through the video game Call of Duty. Harrison Michael Barton, 38, of North Detroit, Texas, was arrested in February 2025 at John Glenn Columbus International Airport while attempting to […]
Posted inLocal News
Head-On collision in Pike County, rescue crews enroute
PIKE COUNTY, Ohio — A two-vehicle head-on crash with injuries has been reported at Pike Lake Road and Morgan Fork Road, authorities said. The incident was reported around 12:19 p.m., and additional assistance has been requested, according to emergency dispatch. No further details on the number of injuries or the condition of those involved have […]
Posted inLocal News
Highland County Jail inmates relocated after boiler malfunction
HILLSBORO, Ohio — All inmates at the Highland County Justice Center have been moved to other facilities after a malfunction in the jail’s boiler system, officials announced Thursday. As a result, Hillsboro Municipal Court is closed for the day, February 5, 2026. Residents are advised to monitor the City of Hillsboro’s official Facebook page for […]
Posted inFEATURED
Huntington Schools face fourth bomb threat in two weeks; classes continue under heightened security
CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Students, staff, and the community faced renewed concern Thursday as Huntington Local School District received its fourth bomb threat in less than two weeks. At approximately 7:20 a.m., the Ross County Sheriff’s Office notified the district of another threat called into their office. Unlike previous incidents, officials decided to keep classes in […]
Posted inChillicothe
Online Safety: 5 Steps to Protect Your Data When Gaming on Mobile
Mobile gaming has become part of everyday life, filling spare moments during commutes, breaks, or quiet evenings. The games themselves feel harmless, but many of them collect more personal data than players realize. Account logins, device details, and even location information can be exposed if basic precautions aren’t in place. Protecting your data doesn’t require […]
Posted inChillicothe
Online Safety: 5 Steps to Protect Your Data When Gaming on Mobile
Mobile games are quick, easy, and everywhere. You tap, you play, and suddenly you’re logged in, sharing your location, or making a purchase. Most people don’t think twice about it, but they should. These games often collect more data than expected, and without basic precautions, it’s easy to give away more than you meant to. […]