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On Wednesday, July 28 at 6:55 AM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to 576 Liberty Court for reports of shots fired. When officers arrived, they found Rezija Sabic, 39, on the front porch shot multiple times. Officers removed her from the immediate area and she was transported by ambulance to the Hershey Medical Center where she died from her injuries. Two other family members were present in the home during the shooting, escaped to a neighbor's home, and were not injured. Swatara Township officers secured the area and the Dauphin County Crisis Response Team responded to the scene and cleared the residence. The Swatara Township Police Criminal Investigation division then began a crime scene investigation in and around the residence.

At this time, police have no suspects and are asking all residents in the area to contact the police department at 717-564-2550 if they have any information concerning the incident or if they saw any out of the ordinary activity in the early morning hours. Because the suspect is still at large in the community, police are asking all residents to be especially observant of their immediate surroundings and to immediately report any and all suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to the police department.

On Monday, July 19 at 12:51 PM, Swatara Township Police went to 5001 Lancaster Street, Apartment 4, to serve an arrest warrant for Simple Assault - Domestic Violence on Sammee D. Childs, age 23. Officers made contact with Pamela J. Baumgartner, age 18, of that address. While on the scene, police smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the apartment. Baumgartner acknowledged that Childs was inside. Police made entry into the apartment, located Childs, and arrested him on the outstanding warrant.

A search warrant was obtained for the apartment. As a result of the subsequent search, officers seized approximately seven pounds of marijuana and drug paraphernalia to include packaging materials commonly used to distribute controlled substances.

Both Childs and Baumgartner were arrested and taken into custody for the following crimes: Possession of a Small Amount of Marijuana for Personal Use, Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Marijuana,) and Possession with Intent to Use Drug Paraphernalia. Both were arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court. Bail for Childs was set at $5,000 for the Simple Assault - Domestic Violence warrant and $20,000 for the drug charges. Bail was set at $20,000 for Baumgartner. Both were lodged in the Dauphin County Prison.

On Sunday, July 18, an animal was spotted in the tree line near the Dauphin County Work Release Center at 919 Gibson Boulevard, Steelton. The animal appears to be a coyote with significant hair loss. Citizens walking or riding bicycles in the area surrounding the center, to include the Harrisburg Greenbelt, should use caution.

According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, coyotes are found in all 67 Pennsylvania counties. As with all wildlife, viewing wildlife is encouraged from a distance and should not be approached. "This coyote appears to be afflicted with mange, a sporadically occurring disease of mammals that is caused by a mite that is generally specific to that species" said Dr. Walter Cottrell, Game Commissioner wildlife veterinarian. "Mange frequently resolves spontaneously, but can result in death, depending on the individual circumstances."

On Sunday morning, July 4 at 5:39 AM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to CVS, 3865 Derry Street, for an armed robbery. A dark-skinned, black male wearing a dark-colored hoody, plaid shorts, and a dark-colored bandana over his face, entered the store and lifted his shirt displaying what appeared to be a black, semi-automatic firearm. The male initially demanded money from the cashier, but then went behind the counter and took two Craig 4GB MP3 players. The male then demanded the cashier give him three cartons of Newport Short cigarettes. The male left the store in an unknown direction on foot.

Anyone with information concerning the incident is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

Swatara Township Police received a tip that an individual wanted both in Lebanon and Dauphin Counties was at 3743 Rutherford Road in Swatara Township. Police confirmed the warrants for Luke Gallaher, Jr., a 24-year-old, white male of Rockwood Drive, Elizabethtown. As officers proceeded to the Rutherford Road address and made contact with another occupant of the residence, Gallaher attempted to flee the house. Police apprehended him in the house after a brief foot chase. Gallaher physically resisted officers' attempts to take him into custody. While apprehending Gallaher, police smelled the odor of marijuana in the house. Officers subsequently found marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the house. As a result, Gallaher was arrested by police and is facing additional criminal charges. He was charged with Resisting Arrest or Other Law Enforcement, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned in Dauphin County Night Court before MDJ Steven Semic. Bail was set at $50,000 and he was lodged in Dauphin County Prison.

Swatara Township Police recently arrested two individuals involved in the theft of two vehicles from the township. Anthony L. Harris, 18, and William H. Kelly, 19, both of the 1500 block of Naudain Street in Harrisburg, were arrested and remanded to Dauphin County Prison pending their preliminary hearings. The police are still seeking a third individual - a black male in his late teens or early twenties known as "Little Money" who was also involved in these incidents.

It is believed that during the early-morning hours of June 10, Harris and the unidentified male stole a vehicle from the 700 block of Hamilton Circle as well as unlawfully entered four other vehicles in that neighborhood, taking items from these vehicles. This vehicle was recovered in Harrisburg shortly after it fled from a Harrisburg City police officer. A firearm was thrown from this vehicle prior to it being abandoned by the occupants.

At approximately 3:00 AM on June 14, Harris and Kelly stole a vehicle from the 4200 block of York Street and unlawfully entered four vehicles in this neighborhood, taking items from some of these vehicles. A Swatara Township police officer observed this vehicle driving at a high rate of speed on Route 322 and a pursuit ensued that led officers into the City of Harrisburg. The occupants abandoned the vehicle in the 1600 block of Berryhill Street where one of the occupants, 18 year old Lavana McMillion, was apprehended by Swatara Township officers and released after her arraignment by a night court judge. The other three occupants - Harris, Kelly, and the unidentified male - fled from the scene. Harris and Kelly were later apprehended.

Harris, Kelly, and McMillion were charged with various counts relating to the theft of motor vehicles, theft from motor vehicle, criminal conspiracy, recklessly endangering another person, and theft by receiving stolen property. Charges are pending against the unidentified male. Any person with information regarding the identity and location of the unidentified suspect (Little Money) are asked to call Detective Shatto at the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

An aggressive weekend of traffic enforcement by the Swatara Township Police Patrol Service Division resulted in the arrest of seven people.

Arrested for Driving under the Influence of Alcohol or a Controlled Substance were the following persons:

Arrested for a traffic offense, Driving under Suspension (DUI), and a bench warrant (Capias) issued by the Dauphin County Sheriff was:

On Saturday, May 1 at 11:54 PM, a Swatara Township Police Officer attempted to effect a traffic stop for an equipment violation. The suspect vehicle failed to stop and fled toward the intersection of 29th and Derry Streets. The suspect vehicle failed to stop for a steady red signal and collided with a westbound taxi cab. The suspect vehicle continued through the intersection and struck the front porch of 740 South 29th Street in the City of Harrisburg.

The driver, later identified as Brian Granison, 32, of George Street, Harrisburg, exited the vehicle holding a loaded, 40-caliber Glock handgun. He was ordered to the ground at gunpoint and complied. Granison was taken into custody and was found to be in possession of marijuana and crack cocaine. Granison also sustained a serious leg injury when he accidentally shot himself before exiting his vehicle.

Granison was taken to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center for treatment. He faces charges of Persons Not to Possess Firearms, Possession with Intent to Delivery a Controlled Substance, Receiving Stolen Property, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and numerous other charges. Granison was also found to have an outstanding warrant from the Harrisburg Bureau of Police for Attempted Homicide. Granison was arraigned on May 2 in his hospital room.

On Saturday, April 10 at 2:31 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to an armed robbery at Metro Bank, 4250 Derry Street. An Hispanic male, approximately 300 pounds, wearing a black baseball cap and a tee shirt entered the bank and handed the teller a note demanding money. Once the subject was given an undetermined amount of cash, the subject displayed a handgun as he was exiting the bank. The subject then left as a passenger in a Harrisburg City Cab.

Investigation into the robbery revealed the subject was transported to the area of South 19th and Zarker Streets in the City of Harrisburg. Working together, Swatara Township police officers and City of Harrisburg police officers observed the subject in that area. The subject was seen discarding a weapon in the 1900 block of Zarker Street and was subsequently arrested.

The 30-year-old subject, identified as Manual Cruz-Martinez of Emerald Street, Harrisburg, was positively identified. The weapon used in the robbery and an undisclosed amount of cash were recovered. Martinez was charged with Robbery and was arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court. His bail was set at $100,000 and he was lodged in the Dauphin County Prison.

Anyone with information concerning the incident is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On Saturday, March 6 at midnight, the Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the 500 block of North Harrisburg Street for a struck pedestrian. Police arrived at 12:05 AM on March 6 and discovered that 51-year-old Charles Carver of South Madison Street, Harrisburg had been struck by a southbound vehicle. The operator stopped briefly and then fled the scene. The striking vehicle was described as a silver, two-door car with a spoiler on the trunk lid. The operator was described as a white male, thin to average build, with a short, dark hair. The vehicle was last seen traveling northbound on North Harrisburg Street at Lindenwood Lane.

Mr. Carver was rushed to the Hershey Medical Center, but did not survive his injuries. Anyone with information concerning the incident is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On Friday, February 26 at 9:56 PM, the Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the 5500 block of Paxton Street (SR 322) in the area of Rupp Hill Road for a single-vehicle accident. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 1999 Pontiac Montana operated by Anthony C. Thompson, 30, of Harrisburg struck the concrete median, crossed the right lane, left the roadway, struck several trees and came to rest back on the highway. As a result of the accident, Mr. Thompson was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene from his injuries.

State Route 322 was closed for several hours between PennHar Drive and Mushroom Hill Road. The Swatara Township Police Department, assisted by the Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team, is investigating the accident. The Chambers Hill Fire Department assisted police in cleaning the scene and provided valuable assistance during the investigation. Swatara Township Fire Police also assisted with traffic control.

Anyone who may have witnessed the accident is asked to contact Lt. Thomas Stauffer of the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

Swatara Township Police investigated four alcohol-related incidents, to include three accidents, in the five-hour span between 8:45 p.m. on January 28 and 1:17 a.m. on January 29. As a result, three persons will be charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or a Controlled Substance and a fourth is still being investigated.

The first accident occurred at 8:42 p.m. at Castle and 31^st Streets and involved two vehicles. No one was injured. One of the operators involved was taken into custody at the scene for suspicion of DUI and transported to the Swatara Township police station for further testing. It was determined his blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit. He is identified as Gerald Stern, age 57, of South Highlands Circle, Harrisburg. Charges are pending.

The second accident occurred at 9:47 p.m. in the 400 block of Gibson Street involving two vehicles. Robert Griggs, Jr., age 42, of North 46^th Street, Harrisburg was arrested at the scene for suspicion of DUI and transported to the police station where it was determined his blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit. Charges are pending.

The non-accident incident occurred at 11:00 p.m. at Derry and 61^st Streets when an alert Swatara Township patrol officer observed a vehicle driving erratically. A traffic stop was initiated and as a result, Patrick Morrow, age 55, of Marblehead Street, Harrisburg was arrested for suspicion of DUI and transported to the police station for further testing. It was determined his blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit. Charges are pending.

The third accident occurred at 1:15 a.m. in the 6600 Block of Derry Street in the parking lot of the Reliance Hose Company Social Hall. A parked vehicle was struck and the striking vehicle continued up an embankment where it overturned. The driver of the striking vehicle was transported to Harrisburg Hospital, but refused treatment. Blood was drawn from the operator, who is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The investigation continues.

On Friday, January 22, 2010 at 9:08 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to a reported armed robbery outside the north side of the building at 211 Francis L. Cadden Parkway. The victim and her young child had just exited their vehicle. The victim handed her purse to her young child to hold when two persons dressed in all black and wearing masks approached from the west. The suspects are believed to be one male and one female and between the ages of 18 and 24 years with "tan" skin.

The suspects beat and pistol whipped the victim and threatened the child with a weapon while another younger child was seated in the back seat of the victim's car. Taken was a large black purse containing a smaller orange wallet with numerous personal items. The unknown actors fled on foot westbound through the lot toward Francis L. Cadden Parkway. A witness observed the actors getting into a dark-color small station wagon and head north on Francis L. Cadden Parkway toward Lower Paxton Township. The victim sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Anyone with information concerning the incident is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550 or Dauphin County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-262-3080. A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered by Crime Stoppers for information leading to the arrest of those responsible.

On Monday, December 28, 2009 at 7:54 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to a reported kidnapping at 5078 Pajabon Drive. Upon arrival at the scene, officers learned that four black males armed with handguns entered the victim's (James Lee Williams, Jr.) apartment and attempted to remove him against his will by dragging him to a waiting automobile. The armed subjects restrained Williams while they searched his apartment and took several items of value.

During the ensuing investigation, officers began monitoring telephone calls demanding a ransom in exchange for the safe return of Tierra Taylor, a 20-year-old black female who resides on South 14th Street in Harrisburg and was reported to have been kidnapped during this same incident. After several hours, Taylor was found in the area of Summit Street unharmed. During a subsequent interview with detectives, Taylor admitted that she was not kidnapped and that she arranged the robbery and attempted kidnapping of Williams. Taylor was arrested on the following charges: Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, Criminal Attempt Kidnapping, and False Reports to Law Enforcement. She was arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court before MDJ Postelli. Bail was set at $10,000.

Information was obtained during the investigation that implicated two Harrisburg men - Barry Holland, a black male with a last-known address of 1500 Herr Street in the City of Harrisburg and Ricky Clark, Jr., a black male with a last-known address of 130 North Summit Street in the City of Harrisburg. Arrest warrants have been issued for both of these individuals charging them with Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, and Criminal Attempt Kidnapping. Both of these individuals remain at large.

The police investigation continues in regards to the identification of the other two individuals involved in this robbery. Anyone with information regarding the location of Holland or Clark or the identity of the other individuals involved is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

Robert "Roberto" Baez appeared in Dauphin County Court today. He was found not guilty of kidnapping. He was sentenced to six to 12 years on the remaining charges.

The Swatara Township Police Department announces the arrest of Robert Baez, 48, of Lancaster, PA.

Robert Baez turned himself into the Lancaster Bureau of Police earlier this afternoon. The Swatara Township Police wanted Baez since November 18, 2008 for the crimes of Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Simple Assault, Terroristic Threats, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Possession of Instruments of a Crime, and Disorderly Conduct.

Swatara Township Police Detectives have taken Baez into custody and he will be arraigned sometime later this evening at Dauphin County Night Court located inside the Harrisburg Bureau of Police headquarters.

KIDNAPPING AND AGGRAVATED ASSAULT - November 18, 2008

On November 18, 2008, Robert "Roberto" Baez abducted his cousin at knifepoint as she pulled into her employer's parking lot. Baez was last seen driving a Gray Toyota Avalon with dark tinted windows but has access to a white Honda Accord with dark tinted windows and chrome wheels. Baez is described as a 48 year old, 5'4", 130lbs, thin build, Hispanic male born 5-23-1960. His last known address is 463 High Street, Lancaster, Pa 17603. He has ties to Florida, New York and Connecticut. There is an active warrant for his arrest on charges of Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault, Terroristic Threats. He is considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information of Baez’ location can contact the Swatara Township Police in Harrisburg Pennsylvania at 717-564-2550. Reference case number 08-0017241.

UPDATE - Acting on a tip, members of the Swatara Township Police Department Criminal Investigation Division apprehended Forde on December 9th at approximately 5:00 PM in the City of Harrisburg. The Harrisburg Bureau of Police assisted in the apprehension.

On December 7, 2009 at 10:32 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to Kaplan Institute, 5650 Derry Street, for an active stabbing. Upon arrival, witnesses reported that the victim, Dillon Mitchell, 30, of Harrisburg had been stabbed several times by an assailant identified as Kevin Forde, a black male, 29, of North Sixth Street, Harrisburg. Witnesses reported that Forde had confronted his wife and Mitchell as they were leaving the building. A verbal altercation ensued between Forde and Mitchell which escalated into a physical altercation during which Mitchell was stabbed.

Forde fled the scene and is still at large. Swatara Township Police are actively seeking him. A warrant for his arrest has been obtained charging him with one count each of Criminal Attempt Homicide and Aggravated Assault.

Anyone with information concerning the incident or the whereabouts of Forde is asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-262-3080.

On December 7, 2009 at 5:20 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to the 300 block of North 48th Street for the report of a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle. Upon arrival, officers found a white male lying on the curbing and sidewalk in front of 379 North 48th Street. Chambers Hill EMS and Lawton Fire Department responded to assist. The pedestrian was transported to Hershey Medical Center where he died. The pedestrian was later identified as Amedeo J. Sallusti, 55, of Swatara Township.

The driver of the truck that struck Mr. Sallusti remained on the scene and was interviewed by police. The driver was identified as Albert A. Mammola, 72, of Swatara Township. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team was activated and is assisting in the investigation.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the collision occurred on the roadway and the investigation continues. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

Swatara Township Police are investigating an exchange of gunfire between two unidentified individuals which occurred on Saturday evening, November 21, 2009 at approximately 9:41 PM. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the former Capital City Counters in the area of Cameron Street and Gibson Boulevard. A witness reported observing one black male standing on the northeast corner of the lot engaging in a verbal argument with a second black male who was seated in a silver four-door Saturn with chrome rims. The Saturn was parked in the southeast corner of the parking lot. The first black male's vehicle was described as a black Ford Explorer with tinted windows and was parked in the northeast corner of the lot. At one point, the first black male fired a gun at the second black male who was still seated in his Saturn. The second black male then returned fire on the first black male who was still on foot. The witness reported at least three shots were exchanged between the two suspects. The first black male then got into his Explorer and fled east on Gibson Boulevard. The second black male operating the silver Saturn fled north on South Cameron Street.

Swatara Township Police and Steelton Borough Police searched the area for the suspects with negative results. Steelton Fire/Rescue assisted police in conducting a grid search of the crime scene. A BOLO (be on the lookout) was issued to all police departments in the region concerning the incident.

Any person who may have witnessed the incident or have information are asked to call the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On Wednesday, November 18 at 5:46 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to a report of a road-rage incident involving a handgun. The victims reported that they were traveling westbound on Paxton Street/SR 322 in the area of Hoss's Restaurant when a white male drove up along side their vehicle and displayed a black pistol. The victims reported that prior to the gun being displayed, the suspect had been driving recklessly, flashing his lights, and cutting them off. The victims provided emergency dispatchers with a description of the suspect and his vehicle, which was relayed to police. Swatara Township Police effected a traffic stop of the suspect vehicle on I-83 and recovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun from the suspect's person and two shotguns and ammunition from the rear passenger area of the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody and identified as John W. Danner, 36, of Paxton Street, Hummelstown. Danner was transported to the Swatara Township Police Department where he was processed and released. Danner was charged with two counts each of Simple Assault (fear of serious bodily injury) and Recklessly Endangering Another Person, both second-degree misdemeanor charges.

On Tuesday, November 3, Swatara Township Police responded to a report of a strong arm robbery attempt which occurred in the area of 170-180 Watson Street in the Lang Manor Housing Complex. The victim was walking in the area at approximately 9:32 PM and was followed by four males wearing black hoodies and black pants. The four males pushed the victim to the ground and attempted to take his wallet. When the victim fought back, the four males fled the area. The victim was not injured. The victim described one male as being lighter skinned and the other three as having dark complexions. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On Sunday, November 1, Swatara Township Police responded to a report of indecent exposure at the Holiday Inn, 4751 Lindle Road. Several victims reported that a white male in his 40s or 50s with a mustache and short hair exposed his naked body, to include his genital area, to them on two separate occasions from the balcony area of a hotel room. Fifty-nine-year-old Reece S. Saunders of Florence, Kentucky was positively identified and taken into custody. Saunders was arraigned in Dauphin County night court and remanded to Dauphin County Prison. Bail was set at $100,000.

On Saturday, October 31, Swatara Township Police responded to a report of indecent exposure at Ruby Tuesday's Restaurant, 3991 Paxton Street. The victim reported that a white male exposed his genitals to her and her 18-month-old grandchild while in the restaurant. When the suspect was confronted by restaurant management and informed that police were enroute, he fled on foot. Police apprehended 40-year-old David M. Caster of Rochester, New York a short time later to the rear of another business in the Tech Port business complex. Caster was arraigned in Dauphin County night court and remanded to Dauphin County Prison. Bail was set at $75,000.

Swatara Township Police continue to investigate a rash of thefts from vehicles. A suspect was confronted by a victim and described as follows: dark-skinned black male, thin build, short black curly hair or dreadlocks, in his 30s, hair on chin, black baseball cap, camouflage jacket, button-down shirt over a tee shirt, black jeans, sometimes with a backpack, riding a silver bicycle. The suspect has entered both locked and unlocked vehicles to steal valuables in view. Police are asking anyone who spots a person matching this description in the Lawnton/Rutherford/Lenker Manor/Paxtang area to call 911. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

Swatara Township Police are investigating three robberies of Chinese food delivery persons which occurred over the past three weeks (September 16, October 13, and October 17 between 7:00 and 10:00 PM.) In all of the Swatara incidents, the robberies occurred in the 100 block of Worcester Avenue, an apartment complex. After robbing the delivery person of the food, a cell phone, and a small amount of cash each time, the suspect disappears into an apartment building. Police are asking the public for their assistance in reporting any suspicious persons they have seen or may see in the area.

Suspect description: black male, medium-brown skin, approximately 25 years of age, medium build, white tee shirt, long dark pants, and a blue and white scarf around his neck. Suspect is believed to be armed with a weapon each time.

Crime Stoppers of Dauphin County is offering rewards up to $2,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspect(s). Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1-800-262-3080.

On Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 2:58 PM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the 6700 block of Grayson Road for a single-vehicle accident with reported entrapment. Upon police arrival, officers found a gray Pontiac Firebird off the north side of the roadway and into a tree. The sole occupant of the vehicle, an adult, white male, was deceased on scene. The driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident and preliminary observations suggest excessive speed and wet road conditions as the cause of the accident. The driver was identified as John Bourgault, Jr., 38, of Evelyn Street, Hummelstown.

The Swatara Township Police Department and the Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team are investigating the accident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On Monday, August 31, 2009, Officer Matthew Corby was on his meal break at Brother's Pizza. A customer began to choke on food, turned purple, and lost consciousness. Officer Corby performed the Heimlich Maneuver and dislodged the food. The individual regained consciousness.

On Saturday, August 22, 2009 at 2:54 AM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the 1500 block of South 19th Street for a bicyclist who had been struck by a tractor trailer. Upon police arrival, the victim was located in the northbound lane of travel. The victim was identified as Albert V. Barbour, IV, age 23, of Harrisburg. Mr. Barbour succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Dauphin County Coroner's Office. The driver of the tractor trailer was employed by United Parcel Service.

On Sunday, August 16, 2009 at 2:01 PM, Swatara Township officers responded to the CVS Pharmacy at 6301 Grayson Road for a report of an unconscious female in the store. Patrolman Isaac Levine, Detective Timothy Shatto, and Patrolman Ashley Wilt arrived at the scene to find a 39-year-old female, later identified as Kay D. Blank, unconscious and not breathing. Detective Shatto and Patrolman Wilt utilized their first-aid training and immediately began cardio pulmonary resuscitation. Patrolman Wilt recognized an item found in Ms. Blank's purse as a remote device for a heart defibrillator and utilized it to resuscitate Ms. Blank as ambulance personnel arrived on the scene. She was then transported to the hospital where she underwent additional treatment.

The Police Department is most happy to report that Ms. Blank was released from the hospital the next day.

On Friday, July 10, 2009, a 16-month-old child fell into a swimming pool in the Rutherford Heights area of the Township. The babysitter pulled the child from the pool and ran to the front yard, screaming for help. Michael Holland was driving by and stopped. The child had no pulse and was not breathing. Mr. Holland administered CPR to which the child responded by coughing up water and regaining a pulse. The child made a full recovery.

Swatara Township Police are seeking information on several thefts from vehicles that have occurred in the Lawnton and Rutherford Heights areas of the Township. Information is being sought relating to any suspicious persons or activity in these neighborhoods during the evening hours. Please contact Swatara Township Police if you observe or have observed any such activity.

Swatara Township Police are seeking information on a burglary at 6813 Jefferson Street during which a motorized scooter and a large amount of mechanic's tools were taken. Anyone with any information that may be related to this incident is asked to contact Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

On Saturday, June 6th, 2009, at 2:02 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to a motor-vehicle crash that occurred on westbound Route 322 just prior to the PenHar Drive interchange. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a single motorcycle had traveled off the roadway, striking the guardrail. The operator of the motorcycle did not survive his injuries. He was identified as 32-year-old Antoinne Lamont Brown of Larch Drive, Harrisburg. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team responded to investigate the crash. Anyone with information relative to the crash is asked to contact Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

Two Swatara Twp. police officers graduated from Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command’s 278^th Class on Friday, June 5, 2009.

Lt. Thomas Stauffer and Sgt. Michael Farling completed the 10-week intensive management course hosted by the Swatara Twp. Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police. The course was held at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey from February through June and thoroughly covered aspects of management and leadership. They were two of 22 officers representing 14 law enforcement agencies who graduated.

Lt. Stauffer and Sgt. Farling are the second and third Swatara Twp. officers to graduate in the past two years from the prestigious school recognized as one of the top executive level command schools in the nation.

On Wednesday, May 20th, 2009, at 5:21 PM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to Chestnut Pointe Apartments at 3655 Chambers Hill Road, Harrisburg in reference to an assault. Upon arrival, police learned that 18-year-old Sean Edmonds, has been stabbed in the left side of his abdomen with a steak knife. Edmonds and his mother advised police that 17-year-old Tylor Lee Reynolds was the assailant. Both the victim and accused are residents of the complex. Edmonds was transported to Hershey Medical Center to receive treatment for his injury. Reynolds was located by police and taken into custody without incident. He was charged as an adult with Criminal Attempt Homicide and Aggravated Assault. Reynolds was arraigned at night court and remanded to Dauphin County Prison in lieu of $250,000 bail. Sean Edmonds was reported to be in stable condition on the morning of May 21st.

On Friday, March 27th, 2009, at 8:24 AM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the Holiday Inn at 4751 Lindle Road for a report of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers discovered that an armed robbery had occurred inside the hotel. The suspect, 19-year-old Jerome Blanchett of Market Street in Harrisburg, was being detained in the parking lot.

Officers learned that the hotel was hosting a Narcotics Law Enforcement Seminar, and that the victim was an off-duty police officer. After committing the robbery, Blanchett fled to the parking lot and entered a taxi. The victim pursued Blanchett to the parking lot, and with the assistance of several other off-duty officers, took Blanchett into custody at gunpoint.

Blanchett was charged with Robbery, Persons not to possess firearms, Firearms not to be carried without a license, Terroristic threats, Recklessly endangering another person, Simple assault.

Blanchett was arraigned before the Honorable District Justice Michael Smith. Bail was set at one million dollars, and Blanchett was committed to the Dauphin County Prison.

Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the Target Store at High Pointe Commons on March 17, 2009 at 3:45 PM in reference to a customer fighting with store security and loss prevention officers. The suspect was detained as he attempted to steal a television/audiovisual combo. The suspect began to fight with security and loss prevention. During the fight he bit one officer on the neck and injured the hand of the other officer. The suspect was last seen fleeing into the industrial park behind High Point Commons off of Chambers Hill Road. Swatara Police arrived within minutes and set up a perimeter but were unable to locate the suspect.

The suspect is described as a white or hispanic male, 5’10”, with a thin build. He was wearing a black sweater and dark jeans during the incident. He stripped off the sweater and jeans as he fled and was seen wearing a green t-shirt and shorts.

Police are in the process of obtaining surveillance video from Target and surrounding businesses. Any person with information as to the identity of the suspect are requested to contact Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

On 28 February 2009 at 10:46 PM, Swatara Township Police Department was dispatched to the 7500 block of Derry Street to the Wheelz of Fire Skating Rink for a large crowd (540 juveniles) who were to be exiting the business. While patrol officers monitored the crowd several fights broke out inside the business. As police attempted to quell the fights more fights broke out and juveniles failed to disperse as ordered. Bottles and cups were thrown at Police. A Swatara Township Police Officer was assaulted while attempting to take a juvenile into custody. Police Departments from Harrisburg City, Lower Paxton Twp., Derry Twp., Susquehanna Twp., Lower Swatara Twp., Steelton, Hummelstown, Penbrook, Paxtang, Middletown, Highspire and the Penn State Harrisburg Campus responded to assist Swatara Township Police.

Seven juveniles were arrested and charged with Riot, Failure of Disorderly Persons to Disperse upon Official Order, and Disorderly Conduct. An eighth juvenile was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Riot, Failure of Disorderly Persons to Disperse and Disorderly Conduct. She was lodged in the Schaffner Youth Detention Center. A ninth juvenile was in possession of two pellet pistols and was charged with Carrying or Discharging Air Rifles.

Armed with a search warrant, Swatara Township Police searched a residence in the 7200 block of Capital Drive. What police found was a small-scale drug dealer operating out of the residence. Inside the residence police found packaging materials, scales, sales transaction records, and approximately 2 ounces of separately packaged marijuana. Arrested was, Manual Perez, 31 years of age, who was residing at the address.

This search was all prompted by a detective’s keen sense of smell. A Swatara Township investigator had visited the residence two days prior on an unrelated matter and while at the residence he detected the strong odor of marijuana. From his prior police experience he identified the aroma and obtained a search warrant for the premises.

Perez was charged with Possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, Simple possession and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and was arraigned before Magistrate Michael Smith on February 25, 2009. Bail was set at $10,000 and Perez was remanded to Dauphin County Prison.

On 14 February 2009, Swatara Police were contacted by the person of interest in the case involving the alleged attempted Luring of a Child into a Motor Vehicle incident that took place on 13 February 2009 in the Lawnton area of our jurisdiction. A supplemental witness was provided by the person of interest and interviewed by police. Through the follow up investigation, police were able to determine that this was NOT an attempted child abduction, nor was any child lured to a motor vehicle. The person of interest was attempting to identify the children regarding a neighborhood problem so the parents could be advised of the issue.

On 13 February 2009 at 1635 hours, the Swatara Township Police were contacted by the parent of a juvenile male who reported that a white male described as medium build, 40-50 years old, white/gray "peach fuzz" on his head, with blue eyes, and wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt attempted to lure her 13 year old son and his friend into his newer model silver Toyota 4-Runner. She advised the male followed her son and his friend after they got off the school bus at 44th and Lancaster Streets. The male suspect reportedly yelled, "what's your name, where do you live?" Both juveniles began walking away when the male followed them and ran them off the roadway with his vehicle.

A search of the area by patrol officers was negative for the suspect. A county-wide be on the lookout was issued through Dauphin County Communications Center and the Dauphin County Child Abduction Response Team was notified.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

The Swatara Township Police Department has arrested a local massage therapist employed by Herman Chiropractic Center located at 6301 Grayson Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111, Swatara Township.

On February 5, 2009 a woman reported to Police that she had been sexually assaulted while receiving services from a massage therapist at the center. An investigation ensued and Douglas Seaman, a 34 year old white male of Grantville, PA, was identified and will be charged with Aggravated Indecent Assault.

Any person with additional information about this incident or others involving Douglas Seaman is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

The Swatara Township Police are asking for the public’s help in solving an armed Robbery that took place in the parking lot of the Harrisburg Mall on January 27, 2009, at about 9:45PM. The victim was approached by two black males driving a silver BMW. The driver of the BMW pointed a gun at the victim, while the passenger took the victim’s purse.

It was learned that Harrisburg City Police were investigating a vehicle theft incident that took place on January 22, 2009, in the 2600 block of Jefferson St, where a silver BMW was stolen.

On February 2, 2009, Paxtang Police observed the stolen BMW in the 3000 block of Derry St. The occupants of the vehicle were two black males. The vehicle was found parked in the 3100 block of Pike St and the occupants had fled prior to police finding the car. Evidence from the robbery in the parking lot of the Harrisburg Mall was recovered from the BMW.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Swatara Township Police, or Dauphin County Crimestoppers. A reward of up to $2000 is being offered by Crimestoppers.

On January 25, 2009 at approximately 3:43AM, Swatara Police were dispatched to the Turkey Hill on Paxton Street for an active robbery. The actor, an hispanic male, indicated to the clerk he had a gun and would use it. The male left with an undisclosed amount of money and a carton of cigarettes.

The description of the vehicle was radioed to responding units and a very alert Penbrook Officer Ron Frederick observed a similar vehicle pull into the Presidential Halls housing complex on Paxton Street. Two of the occupants were detained with a third running into an apartment. Contact was made at the apartment where a male was taken into custody after the clerk positively identified him as the actor. A search of the apartment was conducted and the clothing worn by the actor was located along with the money and merchandise.

The individual arrested was Angel Figueroa, Jr, a 21 year old hispanic male, of Paxton Street in Harrisburg. He was charged with Robbery and arraigned at night court where bail was set at $75,000. He was then transported to Dauphin County Prison. Charges are pending on the other two individuals.

Swatara Police were dispatched to the JC Penney store at High Pointe Commons, 4680 High Pointe Blvd, in Swatara Township in reference to a retail theft. Store personnel advised that a white male and white female, both believed to be in their thirties, were observed and are on video concealing a number of watches and perfume bottles in their pants and on their persons. The suspects saw store employees watching them and placed some of the items on shelves in the shoe department. Store security attempted to stop the suspects as they walked out the exit. The subjects fled in a silver 4-door sedan. An inventory check showed that the suspects were able to flee with 2 watches and a bottle of perfume with a total value of $113.00.

The female was described as white with pink pants, a dark coat and blonde hair with brown tips. The male was described as white with brown hair and a goatee. Photos show the male wearing a dark coat and dark hat with white print on the front. Photos can be found on the Most Wanted page. Anyone having information as to the identity of the suspects may contact Det. George Haney, Swatara Police, at 717-564-2550

On December 16^th at about 12:49pm, Swatara Police were dispatched to the area of the 600 block of Highland Street to investigate incidents of vehicles and houses being shot with paintballs. During this investigation officers identified a residence of a possible suspect and received permission to search this residence. During the search police discovered and seized multiple “pipe bombs." It is believed these suspects were attempting to sell the items.

Arrested were Colter VASSER, a 20 year old white male of Highland Street in Steelton, Pa 17113 and Mathew WEASER, an 18 year old white male of Highland Street in Steelton,Pa 17113.

Both were charged with Risking a Catastrophe, Prohibited Offensive Weapons and Conspiracy. Vasser was jailed in lieu of $25,000 and Weaser was jailed in lieu of $99,000 bail in Dauphin County Prison.

The pipe bombs were turned over to Pa State Police Bomb Squad for safe handling and destruction. Two days after their arrest police also seized a UPS shipment destined for their address containing explosive making materials. The FBI and ATF have been notified due to the nature of the arrest.

On November 28, 2008, at 7:37 pm, a black or Hispanic male entered the Aldi Foods on Grayson Road approached the cashier and produced a black handgun. The suspect gained entry into the safe and an undisclosed amount of cash was removed. The suspect was wearing a zippered hooded sweatshirt, sweatpants, and blue jeans.

Please contact Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550 with any information concerning this robbery. This incident is related to the Robbery at Aldi Foods, in Hampden Township on December 5, 2008. Reference case number 08-0017732. Click here for more suspect information.

On December 4, 2008, charges were filed against three suspects for a series of burglaries that were committed from March 2008 to June 2008.

The burglaries involved houses that were either up for sale or abandoned. The suspects would enter the houses and cut out copper pipes and take the water meters which contain brass. The copper and brass would then be taken to scrap yards and sold for cash.

Steed Miller of Middletown was charged with 37 counts of Burglary and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary. He was arraigned before MDJ Michael Smith who set bail at $10,000. A state parole detainer was also lodged against Miller.

Charles Bolden of Steelton was charged with 36 counts of Burglary and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary. He was arraigned before MDJ Michael Smith. Bail was set at $10,000.

Lester Bucher of Harrisburg was charged with 27 counts of Burglary and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary. MDJ Michael Smith arraigned him. Bail was set at $10,000.

This investigation was a cooperative effort between the Criminal Investigative Units of the Swatara Township Police Department and the Middletown Police Department. The burglaries were committed across seven different municipalities: Swatara Township, Middletown Borough, Lower Paxton Township, East Hanover Township, West Hanover Township, South Hanover Township, and the City of Harrisburg.

On December 1, 2008 the Swatara Township Police Department received information from the Texas Attorney General’s Office Criminal Investigation Division that a fugitive wanted by them for failing to register as a sex offender in Texas may be frequenting a location in Swatara Township. The individual had been convicted of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child in the state of Texas. Acting on their information, Swatara Twp. Police investigators located the individual in the 5600 block of Derry Street and arrested him without incident on December 2, 2008.

He is identified as Clinton Payne, a 24 year old black male of the 200 block of Hale Avenue Harrisburg, PA 17104.

He was charged with Section 9134 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code as a Fugitive from Justice a felony 3 and arraigned before MDJ Michael Smith. Bail was set at $95,000 and he was committed to Dauphin County Prison.

Swatara Township Police was dispatched to the 4900 Block of Lancaster Street for suspicious activity at 0250 hrs. on November 26, 2008. An alert citizen reported that they observed two males pulling on car doors. The citizen yelled at these individuals and they fled on foot. The citizen provided a physical description to dispatchers as police arrived in the area. Upon searching the area patrol officers found three vehicles that had been broken into.

Police from Paxtang Borough and Lower Paxton Township assisted Swatara Township Police with the search. Approximately 30 minutes after the initial call, a Paxtang Borough officer observed one of the suspects in the 3800 block of Derry Street. The suspect fled on foot when police approached. A Swatara Township Police officer responded to this area and located three additional suspects who ran upon his approach. The Swatara patrol officer pursued all three suspects and apprehended them. Another Swatara patrol officer in the vicinity apprehended the fourth suspect.

The suspects were taken into custody and were arraigned at MDJ Michael Smith’s office. Bail was set at $10,000 for each and all four were committed to Dauphin County Prison. The names and charges filed are listed below:

Anthony Luis Allen Gray, an 18 year old white male, of Mulberry Street Harrisburg, PA 17104

James Q. Haynes, a 19 year old black male, of North Belvidere Street York, PA 17401

Norberto Rivera Jr., a 23 year old white male, of North 15^th Street Harrisburg, PA 17103

Michael L. Derita, a 20 year old white male, of North 15^th Street Harrisburg, PA 17103

All four were charged with the following crimes: Theft from a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Conspiracy, and Loitering and Prowling at Night Time.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550. Reference case number of 08-0017612.

On 11-12-08 a victim dropping her children off at a local daycare in Swatara Township had her car entered and credit card(s) and laptop computer stolen. Within minutes the suspects in this video/picture were using the victims cards at a local Target store to purchase several hundred dollars worth of merchandise. Police ask your assistance in identifying these suspects. Contact Sgt Farling at 564-2550.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550. Reference case number 08-0016955. Click here for more suspect information.

Swatara Township Police arrested Daniel Giorgione Jr, age 29, of no fixed address. He is accused of Robbing the Turkey Hill store at 12 South Harrisburg Street on April 21^st. A victim of the robbery was shopping at the Harrisburg Mall when that victim recognized Giorgione Jr. and positively identified him as the robbery suspect.

Giorgione Jr. was charged with Robbery and False Identification to Law Enforcement after he provided a false name while being questioned. Giorgione Jr. was also wanted by State Parole. MDJ George Zozos remanded Giorgione Jr. to Dauphin County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail.

On 4/21/08, Donald Stalter, of Swatara Township, Dauphin County was sentenced before Dauphin County Court Judge Evans to 20-40 years in State Prison for the molestation of three young girls between 7 and 8 years of age. Swatara Twp Police had charged Stalter on February 27, 2007 after receiving information that Stalter had molested his step granddaughter, her sister and one of their young friends. Stalter was also found to be in possession of child pornography on his home computer. In a hearing, just prior to sentencing before Judge Evans, Stalter was found to be a sexually violent predator after Dauphin County District Attorney Sean McCormack presented evidence and testimony.

The Chief of Police is pleased to announce that on Friday April 18, 2008 Dauphin County Victim Services director Jennifer Storm presented the Swatara Township Police Department with the 2007 Outstanding Victim Service Award. The Swatara Township Police was recognized for its “dedication and commitment to serving crime victims with dignity and respect”.

Deputy Chief Jason D. Umberger accepted the award on behalf of the Department at a luncheon ceremony in the lobby of the Dauphin County courthouse.

We are both pleased and honored to be recognized among the many outstanding law enforcement agencies in Dauphin County and we pledge to continue to strengthen our relationship with Dauphin County Victim Services to deliver the very best services to victims of crime in Dauphin County.

On Monday April 21, 2008 at approximately 2125 hours SWATARA POLICE units were summoned to the TURKEY HILL at 12 S. Harrisburg St. in the Oberlin section of SWATARA TOWNSHIP for a reported armed robbery.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a white or Hispanic male with a shaved or bald head, thin mustache and goatee, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt with a camouflage design across the front, baggy jeans and a black beanie cap entered the store and was browsing for store items then produced a handgun and demanded cash.

The robber fled on foot with an undetermined amount of cash. No one was injured during the robbery.

Anyone who may have witnessed this subject inside the store or has information about the robbery is urged to call the SWATARA POLICE @ 564-2550.

Tom Corbett, Attorney General of Pennsylvania recently recognized the Swatara Township Police Department for its professional assistance to his agents in the Child Predator Unit. Members of the Swatara Township Police Department have assisted agents from the Office of Attorney General in conducting investigations and arrests in six cases involving child predators.

Attorney General Corbett cited the professionalism, willingness and dedication of our Department and its members in partnering with his office to conduct these most important investigations.

We are pleased and honored to be recognized by the Attorney General of Pennsylvania and pledge our continued commitment to keeping children safe across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

On Sunday March 16^th at approximately 1245pm Swatara Police were dispatched to the area of the Great Escape entrance at the rear of the Harrisburg Mall for a reported shooting. On arrival at the mall officers located a 17-year-old male who had been shot in a lower extremity. The male was attended to by medical personnel and transported to Hershey Medical Center for treatment of his wound. Initial reports indicate there may have been 5-6 suspects in the area of where the shooting took place. Witnesses described these suspects as black males. Police have determined that the shooting occurred in the rear lot area near the Great Escape Movie entrance. After the shooting, the victim fled to the front of the mall seeking assistance. The victim is expected to recover from his wounds and may be released from the hospital in the near future. At this time no one is in custody and police are asking witnesses to contact them at 564-2550.

On Wednesday February 27, 2008 at approximately 1:25 pm and 1:29 pm, Swatara Township Police units were dispatched to the Sheetz at 3695 Paxton St. and the Hardees Restaurant at 2203 Paxton St. for the report of two robberies.

Upon police arrival it was discovered that at both locations a white male wearing a bulky greenish/tan coat with hood, blue jeans, work boots, goatee and clear safety glasses had entered the establishments and handed the cashier a note demanding money.

Anyone who may have witnessed this subject and/or vehicle is urged to contact the Swatara Police Department at 564-2550.

On Sunday, February 16, 2008 at 0915 hours Swatara Township Police initiated a traffic stop on a silver 2004 Lincoln in the 2500 block of Sycamore Street for an expired registration plate.

During the traffic stop the driver provided police false information about his identity. Through an investigation he was later identified as Woodrow Wilson Grier Jr, of Harrisburg (LKA 1600 block of Paxton Street). A passenger in the vehicle was identified as Nicolette Joyce of Evergreen Street in Harrisburg.

While Police were investigating the identity of Greer, Joyce was taken into custody for outstanding summary warrants.

The vehicle was impounded and during an inventory search Police found approximately 13.7 grams of crack cocaine in a plastic bag.

Once identified Police learned that Grier was wanted by the US Marshals Service for Escape, arising from federal drug law violations. Grier was also wanted for a capias out of the Dauphin County Domestic Relations and $822.52 in fine and cost warrants originating from Harrisburg City Police.

Grier was charged by Swatara Township Police with the following crimes: Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, False Identification to Law Enforcement, False Reports to Law Enforcement, Driving Under Suspension, and Registration and Certificate of Title Required.

Grier was arraigned in Night Court on the charges listed above and bail was set at $50,000. A federal detainer was lodged against him as well. He was transported to Dauphin County Prison where he is being held.

On January 25, 2008, Michael Fernsler was sentenced in a Dauphin County Court Room to 26 to 52 years in prison for sexually molesting two 4-year-old girls in 2006.

He also has been accused of sexually molesting a girl in North Londonderry Twp., Lebanon County, in November while free on bail after pleading guilty in August to sexually assaulting two girls.

On March 23, 2006, Swatara Police received a complaint that two 4-year-old girls were sexually assaulted in their home in Swatara Township. Evidence was collected at the scene and processed by the State Police Crime Lab. The results of the tests indicated that an assault had in fact occurred.

Swatara Detectives obtained a warrant for the arrest of Michael Fernsler, a white male 33 years of age living at 3745 Orrstown Road, Orrstown, Pa 17244. At the time of his arrest, Fernsler was employed as a police officer with the Shippensburg University Police Department. Fernsler was taken into custody at the Shippensburg University Police Department at 4:30PM on March 31, 2006. Fernsler was arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court before DJ Solomon on charges of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child, Corruption of Minors, Indecent Assault, Indecent Exposure, and Unlawful Contact with a Minor. Bail was set at $50,000 and Fernsler was remanded to Dauphin County Prison.

On Sunday, December 30, 2007 at approximately 2:24 PM, Dauphin County 911 received a call reporting a disturbance at the Rutherford Youth Club, Evelyn Street, Swatara Township, Dauphin County. Upon arrival of the patrol officers they learned that a verbal and physical confrontation had occurred involving Gilbert Cruz Sr. and a youth basketball coach. After witness statements were obtained and interviews were conducted, it was determined that following a basketball game in which Cruz's son was a participant, he became upset with the coach. Cruz then departed his seat, entered the court and rapidly proceeded across the court and attempted to strike the coach by swinging his fist. The coach was able to avoid being struck by the fist but was struck in the back by his arm and a physical struggle followed requiring several other adults to keep Cruz from assaulting the coach and to gain physical control.

Gilbert Cruz Sr. is a 38 year-old hispanic male of the 6200 block of Chatham Glenn Way, Swatara Township. A summons has been filed against Cruz for one count of Simple Assault, one count of Assault on Sports Official and one count of Disorderly Conduct.

On Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at approximately 2:21PM, Swatara Police were dispatched to an attempted Robbery at the Blue Chip Credit Union in the 5000 block of Derry Street. The suspect was described as a white male who left the area in a tan hatchback type vehicle. The suspect was not successful in his attempt and fled east on Derry Street.

Alert Patrol units responding to the robbery observed a car matching the description parked at the Turkey Hill at 63rd and Derry Streets where the two white male occupants were taken into custody.

The passenger in the car, identified as Paul E Risser a 35 year old white male of the 100 block of Curvin Drive, was positively identified as being the male that attempted this robbery. The driver of the car, a Steelton resident, was not implicated in the robbery and was later release.

Risser subsequently acknowledged his involvement in two prior robberies on December 4th and 11th at the same credit union and one at the Mid Penn Bank in Steelton on December 20th. Risser was arraigned on four counts of Robbery and committed to Dauphin County Prison on $50,000 bail.

At approximately 11:30PM on December 21, 2007, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to the Waffle House on Lindle Road for an armed robbery. Witnesses stated that a black male and a white female entered the store and announced a robbery. The male suspect was armed with a pistol which he struck one of the three employees on the head with and then ordered them to the back room. The male suspect lined the employees against a wall and removed a large bolt cutter from his pants. He cut a lock on a pantry and ordered the employees inside and locked a deadbolt behind them. The male suspect then attempted to use the bolt cutter to enter the locked office. One of the employees used his cellular phone to call 911. The male suspect unlocked the pantry and when he attempted to take the phone a fight ensued. Two male employees were able to take the male suspect to the floor when the female suspect struck one of the employees on the head with the bolt cutter. The employee recovered and regained his feet. The employees then chased the suspects from the store. The suspects fled in a white sedan believed to be a Pontiac Grand Am.

The male suspect is described as medium complected and about 5' 8" tall and thin. He was wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, black jeans and a red bandanna covering the lower part of his face. The female suspect is described as taller then the male and a heavier build. She was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and had visible ear piercings. A BB pistol and a latex glove were recovered from the scene.

Swatara Police ask anyone with knowledge of the robbery or the actors involved call 564-2550.

The two suspects have been identified and warrants for their arrest have been issued on charges of Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy, Kidnapping and Aggravated Assault. See Swatara's Most Wanted for further details on the warrants. The two are:

Jennifer C. Nace a 22 year old white female with a last known address of Zarker Street in Harrisburg.

Joshua Leonard Simmons a 23 year old black male with a last known address of Zarker Street in Harrisburg.

At approximately 5:30PM on December 13, 2007, Swatara Township Police arrested Patricia K. James for Prostitution. James is a 22 year old female of the 500 block of Maclay Street in Harrisburg. James was arrested after she agreed to perform sexual acts on an undercover police officer in exchange for money. The accused agreed to meet the under cover officer at the Howard Johnsons on Eisenhower Boulevard where she would perform the sex acts in exchange for $300. James was processed and release pending a summons charging her with Solicitation to Commit Prostitution.

At approximately 10:30AM on December 10, 2007, Swatara Township Police and officers from Harrisburg City Police arrested Payonna Williams for Prostitution. Williams is a 21 year old female of the 1900 block of Briggs Street in Harrisburg. Williams agreed to perform sexual acts on an undercover police officer in exchange for money. The accused agreed to meet the under cover officer at the Red Roof Hotel on Eisenhower Boulevard where she would perform the sex acts in exchange for $125. Williams was found to have two outstanding warrants. Williams was arraigned on charges of Solicitation to Commit Prostitution and committed to Dauphin County Prison on $5,000 bail.

Following Williams' arrest, her personal cell phone continued to receive calls. The caller was attempting to contact Williams and arrange for a sexual encounter. An under cover officer made the arrangement for the caller to meet Williams at the same Red Roof and perform sex acts for $125. At approximately 7:46PM, Swatara Township Police took Russell Leroy Wantz Jr into custody as he arrived at the room agreed upon to meet Williams. Wantz, a 57 year old male of Coffee Mill Lane, York, was charged with Criminal Attempt and arraigned at Night Court and was released on his own recognizance.

Swatara Township Police Detectives met with Lower Paxton Township Police Detectives for several hours on the night of December 4, 2007 developing information provided to Swatara Township Police in reference to recent armed robberies in the area. At approximately 8:45 p.m. Lower Paxton Township Detectives executed a search warrant and arrested a juvenile at his residence in the 4500 block of Sequoia Drive in Lower Paxton Township. Simultaneously, Swatara Township Detectives, with the assistance of Harrisburg City officers, executed a search warrant in the 1200 block of Rolleston Street. At that location another juvenile and an adult, Stephen R. St. Clair, a 19 year old white male, were taken into custody. Several items collected from the searches at both locations matched descriptions provided at the five Turkey Hill robberies which had occurred within the past five weeks in both municipalities.

The two juveniles are being charged as adults due to the frequency and severity of the crimes. All three were arraigned at Night Court and each placed in Dauphin County Prison on $150,000 straight bail and are:

Anyone with information related to the individuals or the crimes are asked to contact Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

On November 30^th 2007, at 10:56 PM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to a serious motor vehicle crash in the 7800 block of Chambers Hill Road. Upon arrival at the scene, police learned that the operator of a westbound motorcycle lost control, causing the motorcycle to fall and crash on the roadway. No other vehicles or people were involved. The operator, 25 year-old Ray Fountain of Hershey, was not wearing a helmet. He was rushed to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

The crash kept Chambers Hill Road closed for over three hours. The crash is currently under investigation by the Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team. Anyone with information relative to the crash is urged to contact Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

On November 28, 2007, at the direction of the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office, the Swatara Township Police Department filed additional charges against Ryan Donachy and Deb Donachy in connection with the fire that caused the death of two of their children and severely injured a third child.

Both were arraigned on the new charges before Magisterial District Judge Michael Smith from Dauphin County Prison. They are both charged with the following crimes: 2 counts of Criminal Homicide, 3 counts of Aggravated Assault, 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child and 1 count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. No bail was granted due to the charge of Criminal Homicide. They continue to be held at the Dauphin County Prison.

The Swatara Township Police and the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office announce the arrest of Ryan R. Donachy, a 25 year old white male, and Deb Donachy, a 24 year old white female, of Swatara Township in connection with the fatal fire on November 3, 2007 that caused the death of two of their three children. The third child remains hospitalized at the Lehigh Valley Burn Center.

They were taken into custody this afternoon without incident following the funeral of their children after our investigators learned that that they were planning to flee the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Ryan Donachy is charged with 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of Children and one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Deb Donachy is also charged with 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of Children and one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

These charges were filed and the warrants for their arrest were obtained after consultation with the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office. The charges were brought as a result of the living conditions that were found within the home and the evidence of drug usage found in the home during the investigation.

The couple will be arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Michael Smith later this afternoon.

On Saturday November 24, 2007 at approximately 12:50 AM, Swatara Police were dispatched to the Turkey Hill at 6300 Derry Street for the report of an armed robbery.

Witnesses reported that two black males age 20-25 wearing black hooded sweatshirts and black bandannas across their faces robbed the store at gunpoint. One of the suspects brandished a sawed off shotgun which may not be authentic while the other suspect went behind the counter and took an undisclosed amount of money. The shotgun had duct tape on it.

Anyone who may have information about the robbery is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

On November 8, 2007 at approximately 2:00 PM, Lower Paxton Police were dispatched to Staples, 4203 Union Deposit Road for a retail theft of a laptop computer. The individual ran out of the store with the computer, entered a green Jeep and fled onto East Park Drive.

A Swatara Township Police Officer responded to the area of East Park Drive and Derry Street and observed the vehicle traveling west on Derry Street from East Park Drive. The individual refused to stop for the officer and fled to Paxton Street. It was determined at that point that the individual was driving a stolen vehicle. Additional police units were positioned near Paxton and 20^th Streets as the vehicle approached. The vehicle turned into Faulkner Pontiac in an attempt to avoid the officers. The vehicle became blocked in by parked cars and the driver decided to exit the vehicle and flee on foot. As the individual ran, the vehicle he exited rolled forward and pinned him against a parked car in the lot and the pursuing officers were able to quickly and safely take the individual into custody.

The individual was identified as Keith Young, a 40 year old black male of North 6^th Street in Harrisburg City. He was treated at Harrisburg Hospital and released and now is awaiting Night Court to be arraigned on charges of retail theft, fleeing and attempting to elude police, driver’s required to be licensed, receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. A background check on Young revealed four active warrants for his arrest.

On Saturday, November 3, 2007 at 7:38 p.m., Swatara Twp. Police units were dispatched to the 900 block of Main Street for the report of a structure fire with entrapment. Upon arrival Swatara Police assisted emergency medical personnel and the fire department treating the victims of the fire. Four people, one adult and three children were taken to the Hershey Medical Center by ambulance to be treated for their injuries. A second adult drove himself to the hospital and was treated for his injuries.

The Swatara Township Fire Marshal responded to the scene and began a preliminary investigation into the cause and origin of the fire. After an initial assessment the Fire Marshal requested police involvement. The State Police Fire Marshal and an investigator with the Dauphin District Attorney’s office responded to the scene to assist the Swatara Township Fire Marshal with a cause and origin investigation. Simultaneously, members of the Swatara Township Criminal Investigation Division responded to the scene as requested by the Fire Marshal.

As this investigation was going forward, Police received news from the hospital that two of the three children had died from their injuries. They are identified as Britton Donachy, a 2 1/2 year old white male, and Onna Donachy, a 1 1/2 year old white female. The third child identified as Autum Donachy, a 5 month old white female, and her mother Deb Donachy, a 24 year old white female, were flown from the Hershey Medical Center to the Lehigh Valley Burn Center for treatment.

Late in the evening after reviewing evidence gathered at the scene and the hospital, the Dauphin County District Attorney’s office in consultation with the Swatara Township Police opened a criminal investigation into the incident. At this time no arrests have been made and the investigation into the circumstances and the cause of the fire continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

The Swatara Township Police Department has made an arrest in the stabbing and assault which occurred on October 28, 2007. On October 29, 2007, Swatara Township Police officers arrested John H. Wright, a 49 year old black male from Steelton. Wright was arrested when an alert Swatara Township patrol officer spotted Wright’s vehicle drive past the location where he was assisting another officer on a traffic stop at the intersection of Cameron Street and Gibson Blvd. in Swatara Township. After spotting the vehicle, Patrolman David Milsteen was able to affect a traffic stop on the vehicle in the Borough of Steelton with assistance from other Swatara Township patrol officers. Wright was taken into custody without incident.

He was processed and arraigned before Magisterial District Judge George Zozos at night court on the following charges: Criminal Attempt Homicide, Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. Bail was set at $50,000. Wright was lodged in Dauphin County Prison.

On October 28, 2007 at about 5:50 AM, the Swatara Township Police Department received information that a stabbing victim was being treated at the Hershey Medical Center. The victim, a 43-year-old Steelton resident, reported that he was punched in the jaw and stabbed in the back after getting into an argument with an acquaintance. The victim reported that the incident occurred in the 1600 Block of South Cameron Street, Swatara Township. At this time his injuries do not appear to be life threatening.

The Swatara Township Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the assault. Anyone with information about this assault is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On October 24, 2007 at approximately 12:27 PM, Swatara Police were dispatched to the parking lot of the Harrisburg Mall for the robbery of a motor vehicle at gun point.

The victim was attempting to enter his vehicle, which was parked in the lot near Macy’s, when approached from behind by two black males. One of the males placed a gun to the back of the victim’s head and demanded the vehicle. The victim was able to separate himself from the individuals, at which point, the male with the gun entered the vehicle and drove off. The stolen vehicle was recovered unoccupied by Swatara Officers a short time later in the Hall Manor housing complex, near South 13^th and Oyler Streets.

Anyone who may have information about the robbery is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

On October 6, 2007 at 2:59 AM, Swatara Police responded to a serious motor vehicle accident at the ramp from Route 322 westbound to Interstate 83 northbound. Upon arrival at the scene, police learned that the Pontiac Sunfire had traveled off the roadway and struck a tree. The driver of the Pontiac was deceased upon arrival. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team responded to the location to investigate the accident. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Officer Mason Heun at the Swatara Township Police Department, 564-2550 or mheun@swatarapolice.org.

On October 4, 2007 at approximately 3:11 AM, Swatara Police were dispatched to the area of North Harrisburg Street and Watson Street in Swatara Township for suspicious activity.

Two individuals had been observed carrying an aluminum ladder down the street toward the Jones Corner Bar. A short time later the sound of glass breaking was heard. A description of the individuals was immediately broadcast to responding officers. The first officer on scene observed the two individuals at the door to the establishment. Upon seeing the police cruiser, the two immediately fled the scene. Officers from both Swatara Township and Steelton Boro Police Departments arrived and were able to apprehend one of the fleeing burglars. The second individual is still at large.

The individual taken into custody was identified as Brandon Lamont Crosson, an 18 year old black male, of North 4^th Street in Steelton. He was charged with Criminal Attempt Burglary, Criminal Conspiracy and Possession of Instruments of Crime.

Anyone who may have information about the burglary or the second individual is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

On September 28, 2007 at approximately 2:01 AM, Swatara Police were dispatched to the Wyndham Garden Hotel, 765 Eisenhower Boulevard for an armed robbery.

Two black males entered the hotel, displayed handguns and demanded money from the front desk clerk. Both suspects were described as dark-skinned, approximately 6’6” tall and were dressed in black clothing. They fled with an undisclosed amount of cash in a yellow sedan of unknown make and model.

Anyone who may have information about the robbery is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550.

The Swatara Township Police Department received information from the Point Township Police Department, Northumberland County, PA about a magazine scam. Numerous people that they are investigating for selling fraudulent magazine subscriptions for a phony fundraiser may be staying in a Swatara Township hotel and operating in the Harrisburg Area.

The suspects are to be operating two white Ford E-350 vans with Florida tags. The vans have tinted windows. The suspect's typically go to a home and one suspect enters the home to speak with the resident while the other stands in the victim's backyard. If the suspects believe that the resident is suspicious of them they flee in one of the above described vehicles.

The suspects are described as Caucasian and African American and are in their late teens and early twenties.

Anyone with information of the whereabouts of these suspects or who observes this type of activity is asked to call the local police department where the activity is occurring. The Swatara Township Police Department can be reached at 717-564-2550.

On Friday evening, August 17, 2007, the Swatara Township Police Department, in cooperation with Dauphin County Probation and Parole Officers and the Dauphin County Drug Task Force, conducted a "special enforcement" detail targeting areas where numerous quality of life complaints and crime activity has been reported.

During the operation officers detected a very strong odor of marijuana in building 103 Worcester Avenue. Upon further investigation it was determined that the odor was emanating from a particular apartment. Officers were able to access the apartment and detain the occupants and then obtain a search warrant for the premises. A search warrant was executed on the apartment and police seized a .22 caliber revolver, over a pound of prepackaged marijuana and several thousand dollars in cash. The following persons were arrested as a result of this incident:

Bernard McMillion, a 33 year old male from Chambersburg, was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, manufacturing marijuana, former felon not to possess a firearm, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Schkira Washington, a 34 year old female from Worcester Ave, Swatara Township, was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both were arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court with McMillion being committed to Dauphin County Prison on $75,000 bail and Washington committed to Dauphin County Prison on $20,000 bail.

The individual captured on the surveillance camera was positively identified as William SANTIAGO, a 46 year old Hispanic male, with an address of Wiconisco Street in Harrisburg, PA. A warrant of arrest was obtained and a detective with Swatara Township Police Department spotted Santiago in a vehicle and, with the help of Susquehanna and Penbrook Police units, took him into custody.

The Swatara Township Police Department is investigating a series of burglaries at Cleveland Brothers on Old Paxton Street. The burglaries have taken place from May to the latest on August 13, 2007. Items taken include computers and some construction equipment. A photo was taken by the surveillance camera in the business during the August 13^th burglary. Click here to see photo on the Most Wanted page of this website.

Anyone who has information should contact Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

BURGLARIES – 29 July 2007

The Swatara Township Police Department is investigating several burglaries that occurred overnight on Sunday, 29 July 2007 at three stores in the Harrisburg Mall on Paxton Street. The stores burglarized include the Limited, Bath and Body Works and Victoria’s Secret. Two individuals forced open an exterior door to the mall gaining entry to a hallway leading to the stores. Once in the hallway they forced their way into the stores and removed an undisclosed amount of cash. The individuals were caught on surveillance cameras and the video is available on the website's Most Wanted page by clicking here.

If you have any information related to the burglaries or the identity of the individuals involved please contact the Swatara Police department at 564-2550.

DUI HIT AND RUN – 28 July 2007

On July 28, 2007, at 10:20 PM, Swatara Police responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Sycamore Street and 29^th Street. A black Mazda MX-6 had failed to negotiate the turn and came to rest in the parking lot of the Spring Creek facility causing property damage to the grass and concrete curbing. A witness observed the driver exit the vehicle and run south on Harrisburg Street. A male fitting the description was observed running on Harrisburg Street near Mall Road and detained by Swatara Police. That individual denied any involvement in the crash but was subsequently identified by the witness as the driver of the vehicle.

Swatara Police received further information that the same vehicle was involved in a crash just prior to this one at the intersection of Paxton Street and Sycamore Street where it struck an occupied vehicle and fled the scene. The driver of the struck vehicle was able to positively identify the Mazda as the vehicle that struck her.

The male driver was identified as Mister Stephen Kenyon Palmer, a 32 year old black male, with a last known address of Laurel, Maryland. Palmer was charged with driving under the influence, two counts of leaving the scene of an accident, making false reports to police, reckless driving, operating a motor vehicle with a revoked license, no insurance and fraudulent license plates.

If you have any information related to either accident or the driver of the striking vehicle please contact the Swatara Police department at 564-2550.

On 22 May 2007, the Swatara Township Police Department became aware of three males who had approached an individual asking for help in cashing checks. The males told the victim they didn’t have identification so they couldn’t cash the checks themselves. They promised some of the money if the victim helped them. At first, the victim agreed and was able to cash the checks and received part of the money but became suspicious of the males and questioned the authenticity of the checks. The victim came to the police for help. The checks were verified to be fraudulent. The following day the victim received a phone call from the males requesting assistance with another check. With police present, a location to meet was agreed upon over the phone and when the three males arrived they were taken into custody without incident.

The three suspects were not cooperative with their identification and had to be identified using their fingerprints. Police do not believe the three are from the area and may be from Virginia or North Carolina. The three were charged with Forgery, Identity Theft, Theft by Deception and Criminal Conspiracy. They were identified as George Brown, Sam Cherry and Anthony Woods. Brown was found to be wanted by Morgan County Indiana Sheriff’s Department for felony theft charges.

Anyone with information related to this incident are asked to contact Detective Haney at the Swatara Township Police Department at 564-2550 and reference case no. 07-0008325.

On May 20th at approximately 6:25PM, a juvenile male was walking on Franklin Street at 47th Street in Swatara Township when an older model light blue Dodge Caravan swerved across the street and asked the victim if he needed a ride. The victim replied no and the driver responded, “yes you do” and reached out in an attempt to grab the victim. The victim then fled on foot towards his home. The van went south on 47th St. toward Derry St. The victim stated that the same person approached him on May 11, 2007 at about 3:00PM in the same van and asked if he needed a ride but left the area after he said no. The victim described the driver as a fair complected medium sized white male in his late 40s or early 50s, thin brown hair with receding hairline and oval face. On both occasions the driver was wearing a gray t-shirt.

In a joint investigation by the Swatara Township and Lower Paxton Township Police Departments into robberies of cab drivers three males have been charged.

On May 14, 2007, with the assistance of the Dauphin County Crisis Response Team, a search warrant was executed at the apartment of one suspect in the Chestnut Pointe Apartment complex in the 3600 block of Chambers Hill Road. At that time one suspect was taken into custody. During the search of this apartment a loaded 22 caliber revolver and a loaded 32-caliber semi auto handgun were recovered.

Through subsequent investigative work by Detective Chris Everett, Swatara Township and Detective Gary Flythe, Lower Paxton Township, additional suspects were identified and charged. Those charged were:

McAlpine and Kendrick have been arrested and arraigned. Both are free after posting $40,000 and $15,000 bail respectively.

On 4-21-07 Swatara Township Police Department arrested Edwin Ayala for a rash of vehicle break-ins in the parking lot of Home Depot, 4200 Derry St. Ayala is charged with 10 counts of Theft from a Vehicle by Swatara Police and one count of Theft from a Vehicle by Lower Paxton Township Police for an incident in the parking lot of Lowe’s on Union Deposit Rd. These incidents occurred over a period of time beginning in early March.

Ayala was taken into custody after a short pursuit by units from Swatara Township, Paxtang Boro and Harrisburg City Police after having just committed his last theft from a vehicle at Home Depot on Derry Street. Alert employees from Home Depot assisted in identifying the suspect. He was arraigned in night court and remanded to Dauphin County Prison on $50,000 bail, as well as three warrants from Berks County.

Ayala, 42, lists addresses in the 1200 block of Mulberry St and the first block of N.16^th St in Harrisburg.

Anyone with information pertaining to these thefts can contact Swatara Police at 717.564.2550.

On this date at 2:18 PM, fire apparatus from Swatara Township and neighboring jurisdictions responded to a fire at the Holiday Inn located at 4751 Lindle Road. The fire occurred in the basement of the building, and caused the entire hotel to be evacuated. There were no serious injuries reported. The fire is currently under investigation.

The Swatara Township Police Department and Harrisburg City Police responded to the intersection of 20^th St at Sycamore St. for a vehicle accident and a shots fired call on 3-31-07 at about 0730 hours. The police detained Manuel Castro, 42, of the 100 block of Evergreen St. Harrisburg. It has been determined that Castro rammed the vehicle he was driving into a car driven by his ex-girlfriend. He then fired two shots at a male who was in the woman’s car. The male fled the scene on foot and called 911 at a residence in the neighborhood.

Swatara Township Police placed Manuel Castro under arrest. He will be arraigned at Dauphin County Night Court on the charges of Criminal Attempt Homicide; two counts of Aggravated Assault and Reckless Endangering another person.

Any persons witnessing this incident are requested to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at (717) 564-2550.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 12, 2007, Swatara Police responded to Planet Fitness Health Club at 3460 Paxton St. for a report of a stabbing. The victim was involved in a fight with suspect Luis Figueroa-Rivera, a 36 year old Hispanic male, in the parking lot of the club. During the fight, Figueroa-Rivera sliced the victim in the back with a box cutter type knife. The victim refused treatment at the scene. An arrest warrant is being obtained for Figueroa-Rivera for the charge of Aggravated Assault.

Anyone with information as to the location of Figueroa-Rivera is asked to call Swatara Police at 564-2550.

On February 27, 2007, the Swatara Township Police Department arrested Donald Stalter of North 66^th Street in Swatara Township, Dauphin County. The 71 year old Stalter has been charged with sexually molesting his 7 year old granddaughter over the past couple months. Stalter’s charges include involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, corruption of minors and unlawful contact with a minor.

Anyone with information about this case should contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717.564.2550.

On February 7, 2007 at 10:08 AM, Swatara Township Police responded to a serious motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Orchard Drive and Kelker Street. Upon arrival at the scene, Police learned that a westbound drywall truck operated by 39-year-old Jerod George struck a southbound Honda coupe operated by 39-year-old Kent Francis. Francis was transported to the Hershey Medical Center via helicopter, and remains in critical condition. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team responded to the location to investigate the accident.

Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to contact the Swatara Township Police at 717-564-2550.

The Swatara Police Department recently made four arrests in an internal theft scheme that netted over $500,000 in cash from Verdelli Farms in the 7500 block of Grayson Road.

A former employee, K. Eugene Henry of Columbia, has been charged with Theft by Extortion, Theft by Deception and Conspiracy. Three other truck drivers from companies that deliver goods for Verdelli Farms were also charged. Those drivers, two from the Dillsburg area and one from the Reading area, have been charged with Theft by Deception and Conspiracy. All defendants have been arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Steven Semic and released on unsecured bail to await their hearings. Henry waived his preliminary hearing at his arraignment.

Someone removed a mailbox, pictured below, sometime overnight on January 5th, from the 7800 Block of Chamber Hill Road in Swatara Township. Because of the unique design, the owner is asking whoever took the fish mailbox to please return it. Anyone with information may contact Detective Sergeant Mike Farling of Swatara Police Department at 564-2550 and reference case number 07-0000319.

The Swatara Township Police Department is seeking information on an armed robbery that occurred the evening of December 16, 2006 at the 7-Eleven convenience store in the 4800 block of Derry Street.

At approximately 9:15 p.m., two black males, one armed with an assault type rifle, entered the 7-Eleven and at gun-point ordered the store clerk to surrender all cash from the register and safe. In addition to an undisclosed amount of cash, various cigars and cigarettes were taken from the store.

The suspects are described as black males, both approximately 6’ in height, wearing black ski-masks, black gloves, jeans and winter jackets. One suspect was wearing a black jacket with a fur lined hood, the other was wearing a green jacket and had a dark grey hooded sweatshirt beneath the jacket.

The suspects left the store on foot and then fled the area in a vehicle that was parked behind the store. To view photos and video of the individuals click here. Anyone with information regarding this robbery is urged to contact the Swatara Township Police Department at 717-564-2550.

On November 18^th, 2006, at 9:35 PM, Swatara Township Police were dispatched to a serious motor vehicle accident at the intersection of 32^nd Street and Sycamore Street. Upon police arrival, it was determined that one of the drivers had suffered extensive injuries. That driver was identified as Dawn Farling, a 54 year-old resident of Enola. Farling was taken to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center for treatment. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team responded to the location to investigate the accident. The Swatara Township Police ask that anyone who may have witnessed the accident contact Cpl. Thomas Stauffer at 564-2550.

The Swatara Township Police Department is saddened by the announcement that Mrs. Farling succumbed to her injuries on November 19, 2006 at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. The Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the accident. Anyone with information relative to the accident is urged to contact Cpl. Thomas Stauffer.

Detectives Chris Everett and Tim Shatto of the Swatara Township Police Department took part in Operation FALCON III - Federal and Local Cops Organized Nationally - A massive fugitive operation that took place the week of October 22- 28, 2006 and covered the eastern half of the United States. As a cooperative effort between Deputy U.S. Marshals and state, local and other federal agencies, Operation FALCON III removed some of the country’s most dangerous sex offenders and gang members from the streets, making America’s communities safer. The task force members arrested a total of 10,773 felony fugitives. This number includes 1,659 sex offenders and 364 documented gang members. Locally, Marshals Service personnel and task force officers from the Middle District of Pennsylvania cleared 168 warrants, including 33 for sex offenses or failure to register as a sex offender, and arrested a total of 137 fugitives during the operation. The Middle District of Pennsylvania covers 33 counties of central and northeastern Pennsylvania. The operation was a cooperative effort by 30 Federal Law Enforcement Agencies, 103 State Law Enforcement Agencies, 430 County Sheriffs Departments, 482 Local Police Departments and 18 Foreign Law Enforcement Agencies. In all, each day more than 3,000 law enforcement officers worked together tirelessly during this record setting operation. Detectives Everett and Shatto personally took part in the seizure of a large quantity of drugs along with money and guns while searching for wanted felons. For more information go to http://www.usmarshals.gov/falcon3/.

Buckle Up PA is a project funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation dedicated to raising the seat belt usage level in Pennsylvania through increased enforcement, public awareness and education. Nearly every state now requires adults to wear seat belts. Throughout the state this coming holiday season, additional traffic enforcement is scheduled.

Swatara Police investigate approximately 90 traffic accidents each month, some result in fatalities. Traffic accidents kill more people between the ages of one and forty-four than anything else. Nationally, every nine seconds someone is injured in a traffic accident. Approximately every thirteen minutes, someone is killed in a traffic accident. Seat belts are intended to reduce the risk of death and injuries by stopping the wearer from hitting hard interior components of the vehicle or from being thrown from the vehicle.

If you are stopped and cited for a traffic violation and found to be unbuckled, you could get two tickets, two fines. A secondary seat belt citation will add an additional $60 to your total fine, so Click It or Ticket. It's not just about enforcing laws. It's about saving lives. Effective law enforcement not only improves the quality of life in communities, it helps protect the lives of our children. That's why enforcing traffic safety laws is one of Swatara Police Department’s most important responsibilities and we are serious about saving lives!

This information was provided by the Swatara Township Police Department, Community Services Unit. This unit, headed by Cpl Kevin Gallick, consists of Ptlm John Schmoyer and Ptlm Alan Reinhart (School Resource Officer). If you would like the police department to participate in your next community event, please contact one of these officers. They are also available to assist with community related police issues.

On October 19^th, 2006 at 9:39 PM, Swatara Township Police responded to a motor vehicle accident in the 1600 block of South 19^th Street. Upon arrival at the scene, Police learned that a northbound vehicle struck a northbound bicyclist. The collision caused the bicyclist to lose control and fall to the ground. He sustained serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital. The bicyclist is recovering from his injuries, but Swatara Township Police are still searching for the driver of the striking vehicle. It was described to police as a tan-colored car, but the witness had no further information. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Swatara Township Police at 564-2550.

Swatara Police executed a search warrant on a residence in the 1100 Block of 2^nd Avenue in the Oberlin Gardens section of Swatara Township. During the search police recovered several pieces of evidence related to the recent rooftop burglaries. Subsequent to this discovery police arrested Stanley Mosley, a 33 year old white male, of the 1100 blk of 2^nd Avenue and charged him with 7 counts of Burglary. Mosley was arraigned and incarcerated in Dauphin County Prison on $50,000 bail.

The following press releases have been issued by the Swatara Township Police Department. If you have any information relevant to the following investigations, you are urged to contact the Swatara Township Police Department.

KIDNAPPING AND AGGRAVATED ASSAULT - November 18, 2008

BURGLARIES – 29 July 2007

DUI HIT AND RUN – 28 July 2007