Wilkes-Barre

Man convicted of first-degree murder in girlfriend’s death

September 18, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A man has been convicted of first-degree murder in the death of his girlfriend, whose body was found in his sport-utility vehicle in northeastern Pennsylvania three years ago.

Self-defense argued in slaying of woman found dead in SUV

September 15, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A man charged with criminal homicide in the death of a woman whose body was found in his sport utility vehicle in northeastern Pennsylvania three years ago is arguing that her death was self-defense.

Woman who coughed on market produce, claimed virus gets jail

August 24, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A Pennsylvania woman who pleaded guilty to coughing and spitting on food at a supermarket in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was sentenced Tuesday to at least a year in jail.

Girl calls scars, shark tooth necklace ‘souvenirs’ of attack

By BOB KALINOWSKI, The (Wilkes-Barre) Citizens' VoiceAugust 14, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — Days after getting bitten by a shark, Jordan Prushinski asked her parents to buy her a shark tooth necklace at a gift shop just as her family was leaving Ocean City, Maryland.

Library book returned after 50 years with $20 bill

August 4, 2021 GMT

PLYMOUTH, Pa. (AP) — A book checked out a half-century ago has been anonymously returned to a library in northeastern Pennsylvania, officials said.

The Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice reports that the 1967 copy of “Coins You Can Collect" by Burton Hobson arrived last month at the Plymouth Public Library in Luzerne County along with a $20 bill.

Ex-police chief pleads guilty in civil rights violation case

June 22, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A former northeastern Pennsylvania police chief has pleaded guilty to a civil rights violation in what authorities said were threats to retaliate against a social media critic by filing unfounded criminal charges.

Man gets 30 to 60 years in multimillionaire father’s death

April 21, 2021 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A northeastern Pennsylvania man has been sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison in the death of his multimillion-dollar father, who authorities said he bludgeoned to death, dismembered, and burned, disposing of the remains in the garbage...

Officials: Detention facility at center of scandal is closed

December 13, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — State and county officials have confirmed the voluntary closure of a for-profit juvenile detention center in northeastern Pennsylvania to which prosecutors said juvenile offenders were improperly sent in a kickback scheme that led to the imprisonment of two judges...

9 discarded ballots weren’t fraud, state election chief says

By MARK SCOLFOROSeptember 30, 2020 GMT

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — It appears that an election worker’s decision to throw out nine military ballots in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, amounted to a mistake and not “intentional fraud,” the state’s top elections official said Wednesday...

Suit: Ex-pharmacist fired for not trying medical marijuana

February 14, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — A former Pennsylvania pharmacist is suing the medical marijuana dispensary where she worked on allegations she was fired after refusing to illegally sample the shop’s products...

Burglary Charges Against Christy Dropped

BY JAMES HALPIN, STAFF WRITERFebruary 7, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — As he awaits sentencing on federal convictions for threatening the president, Shawn Christy has had burglary charges dropped against him in Luzerne County. Christy, 28, was facing burglary and theft-related charges alleging he broke into his uncle’s Butler Twp.

Hazleton Woman To Stand Trial For Boyfriend’s Murder

JAMES HALPIN, STAFF WRITERFebruary 7, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — A Hazleton woman accused of fatally stabbing her boyfriend during a confrontation late last year waived her right to a preliminary hearing Friday morning.

Marlin Florentino Batista, 43, waived the hearing in exchange for prosecutors agreeing to quickly turn over to the defense surveillance footage of the incident as well as a recording of Florentino Batista’s statement to police, defense attorney Demetrius Fannick said.

Out And About: Breaking Ben Signing At Gallery Of Sound, Wilkes-Barre

DAVE SCHERBENCO, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERFebruary 6, 2020 GMT

4 Charged Following Raids Targeting Fentanyl Ring

James HalpinFebruary 5, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — A drug raid conducted by the Luzerne County Drug Task Force broke up a major fentanyl distribution network as agents seized bricks of fentanyl, guns and more than $56,000 in cash, according to court documents released Wednesday.

Mr. Peanut Vigil Planned For Public Square In Wilkes-Barre

By Bob Kalinowski, Staff WriterJanuary 31, 2020 GMT

One way or another, Mr. Peanut will be honored Monday in his hometown of Wilkes-Barre. There will either be a somber vigil or a celebration of the iconic mascot’s life at noon on Public Square, just a few blocks from where the global brand Planters Peanuts was founded.

Mr. Peanut Vigil Planned For Public Square In Wilkes-Barre

By Bob Kalinowski, Staff WriterJanuary 31, 2020 GMT

Out And About: Documentary Of Hanson, F.M. Kirby Center For The Performing Arts, Wilkes-Barre

BY DAVE SCHERBENCO, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERJanuary 30, 2020 GMT

Broadway Actress Heading Home To Sem Stage For Reflective Concert

BY GIA MAZUR, STAFF WRITERJanuary 24, 2020 GMT

Jessie Hooker-Bailey has performed on stages all over, but there’s no place like home.

The Northeast Pennsylvania native and Broadway actress who’s appeared in shows such as “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and, most recently, “Waitress” on the Great White Way, will return to her home region this weekend to perform and share stories and advice she’s learned throughout her journey so far.

Wilkes-Barre Woman Burned In Fire Dies Of Injuries

BY JAMES HALPIN, STAFF WRITERJanuary 17, 2020 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — A woman who was severely injured in a house fire earlier this month has died from her injuries, according to the Lehigh Valley Coroner’s Office.

Clora Sylvester, 70, was pronounced dead at 9:54 p.m.

Police: Amazon delivery driver steals UPS package from home

December 31, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) — An Amazon delivery driver stole a package that was delivered earlier by UPS at a Pennsylvania home, police said...

Wilkes-Barre Mother Kills 5-year-old Daughter In Murder-suicide

BY JAMES HALPIN, STAFF WRITERDecember 13, 2019 GMT

BEAR CREEK TWP. — A Wilkes-Barre mother killed her 5-year-old daughter before taking her own life Friday morning, according to Pennsylvania State Police.

Troopers say Christina J. Tyler, 31, killed her daughter, Olivia E.

County Dems Shocked By Sen. Yudichak Party Flip

Bob KalinowskiNovember 19, 2019 GMT

State Sen. John Yudichak called the leader of the Luzerne County Democratic Party on Monday night and revealed the shocking news. He would announce Tuesday he was abandoning the Democratic party to register as an independent.

Wilkes-Barre Area Offense Too Much For Scranton

By Steve BennettNovember 2, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — The two-quarterback system Wilkes-Barre Area utilized this year worked about as well as anyone could have expected. But that system was cut in half on Friday night in the opening round of the District 2 Class 6A playoffs.

Penguins’ Joseph Out With Mono; Bjorkqvist Evaluated For Injury

By Tyler PiccottiOctober 23, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins entered the week with momentum from a two-game win streak.

If they want to keep it, they’ll have to do so with a reshuffled lineup.

With the Penguins preparing for tonight’s road clash against the Binghamton Devils, head coach Mike Vellucci said Tuesday that defenseman Pierre-Oliver Joseph will miss an extended amount of time after being diagnosed with mononucleosis.

Today’s Hot Shot

submittedOctober 23, 2019 GMT

“Jayceion, 1, of Wilkes-Barre, is curious on how to open a business in the Wyoming Valley Mall,” wrote his parents, Cynthia Harris and Larry Tooley, who took and submitted this photo.

Cougars Blank Wolfpack

Staff ReportOctober 2, 2019 GMT

Joseph Rosero broke open a tie game after halftime, and Gabe Fabian scored two more goals to seal Hazleton Area’s 3-0 shutout at Wilkes-Barre Area in Wyoming Valley Conference boys soccer Tuesday. William Smith denied 15 shots as the Cougars (7-3, 5-3 Division 1) became the first WVC team to shut out the Wolfpack (8-3, 5-2) through seven league matches.

Hazleton Man Guilty Of Deadly Bar Shooting

BY JAMES HALPIN, STAFF WRITERSeptember 13, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — Accused killer Terrence W. Clarke pleaded guilty Friday to third-degree murder, admitting he was the man who opened fire on a crowd during a fight outside a Hazleton bar five years ago.

AmberDonia Opens Wilkes-Barre Location

Denise AllabaughAugust 7, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — Butch Sacipi has dreamed of opening a bakery in Wilkes-Barre for about 10 years. His dream finally came true.

Several customers came to a soft opening Tuesday at the long-awaited AmberDonia Bakery in the Hampton Park apartment building on East Northampton and South Washington streets in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

Times Leader Newspaper Sold To North Carolina-based Media Company

BY JAME HALPIN, STAFF WRITERAugust 2, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — A North Carolina-based media company has acquired the Times Leader, the company announced Friday.

Avant Publications has purchased the daily newspaper along with its branded publications, including the Weekender, the Sunday Dispatch, the Abington Journal and its digital properties, according to the announcement.

Storm Knocks Out Power To Some Residents In Luzerne County

Staff reportJuly 31, 2019 GMT

Tuesday's thunderstorm knocked out power to more than 1,600 customers in the area of Suscon Road in the Greater Pittston area of Luzerne County.

According to PPL Electric Utilities Outage Center, 1,685 customers were without power as of 5:30 p.m.

Today’s Hot Shot

submittedJuly 30, 2019 GMT

Rick Voelker of Wilkes-Barre photographed this fawn. He wrote, “This little guy ( or girl) stopped while crossing the road to take a better look at me and allowed me to take this photo.”

Judge: Hall Will Stand Trial In Murder Of Friend’s Grandfather

Jim HalpinJuly 24, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — A 16-year-old girl accused of conspiring to murder her friend’s grandfather will stand trial on murder charges, a county judge ruled Tuesday. Luzerne County Judge William H. Amesbury found sufficient evidence to bind over charges of murder conspiracy, theft and robbery against Mercedes Linn Hall, of Kingston.

PHOTOS: Riverfront Concert Series Continues In Wilkes-Barre

Staff reportJuly 20, 2019 GMT

The second of three ‘Rockin’ the River’ riverfront concerts was held Friday evening on the River Common in Wilkes-Barre, and despite temperatures in the 90s, a large crowd was on hand for the event.

Prosecutors Stand By Case Against Alleged Killer Teen

James HalpinJuly 19, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — County prosecutors on Friday stood by the case they presented last month against alleged killer teen Mercedes Linn Hall, asking a county judge to forward murder charges for trial based on the same evidence a magistrate rejected.

W-B Council OKs George’s Appointments

By Steve MocarskyJuly 19, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — Mayor Tony George’s request for council to approve his appointments to boards and authorities again proved to be contentious Thursday night.

Council voted 3-2 on one appointment and three reappointments and 4-1 on two appointments.

Beekman Hired As Arena’s New GM

Eric MarkMay 9, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE TWP. — Will Beekman, who led the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts to a new level of prominence the past four years, will start work next week as the new general manager of Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza.

Warriors Unseat Royals From Atop WVC

BY TOM FOXMay 9, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — The image was burned in Jackson Shafer’s mind.

The Delaware Valley attacker never forgot the scene of Holy Redeemer celebrating their 2018 Wyoming Valley Conference title on the Warriors’ home court.

Montgomery’s Biggest Impact With Phillies Was Felt Here

BY DONNIE COLLINSMay 9, 2019 GMT

I always wondered why, outside of Philadelphia, so few baseball fans realized the impact David Montgomery made on the game.

Even here, where the truest impacts of Montgomery’s biggest decisions percolated, long before they led to dramatic postseason runs and wild parades down Broad Street.

Beekman To Head Arena After Success At Kirby Center

Eric MarkMay 9, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE TWP.Beekman named GM of arena Will Beekman, who led the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts to a new level of prominence the past four years, will start work next week as the new general manager of Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza.

PHOTOS: Fine Arts Fiesta Salutes Volunteers

Staff reportMay 6, 2019 GMT

The 2019 Fine Arts Fiesta saluted its volunteers Sunday with the annual volunteer reception at Rodano’s on the Square in Wilkes-Barre. More than 120 volunteers were saluted who carry out various fiesta tasks including monitoring art shows, helping with the grounds, staffing the information gazebo and fiesta tents and more.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Airport Breaks Passenger Mark

BORYS KRAWCZENIUKApril 25, 2019 GMT

PITTSTON TWP. — The local airport broke its passenger departure record for the eighth month in a row in March, shattering the previous record with a massive increase over a year ago. The 25,431 passengers who flew out of the airport in March marked a 41.2% increase from the 18,012 last year.

Water Main Break Disrupts Traffic In W-B

Eric MarkApril 25, 2019 GMT

A water main break has disrupted traffic in downtown Wilkes-Barre this morning. West Market Street between North Franklin and North River streets is closed to all traffic while a water main is being repaired, according to city officials.

W-B Chamber Announces 2019 EPIC Honorees

By Denise AllabaughApril 25, 2019 GMT

The Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce has announced the honorees for the 2019 EPIC (Extraordinary People Inspiring Community) Awards, which will be presented by Wells Fargo 5 to 7:30 June 11 at the Wyoming Seminary Kirby Center for the Creative Arts in Kingston.

County In Talks With WVSA On Stormwater Fee

Eric MarkApril 25, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — Luzerne County recently received stormwater fee bills totaling about $192,000 for county-owned properties, county Manager David Pedri said Tuesday.

But there is good news, Pedri said at a county council work session.

Dallas Man Sues Over W-B Area Land Deal

By Michael P. BufferApril 11, 2019 GMT

FORTY FORT — A Dallas man claimed in court Wednesday he is entitled to $12,000 from the Wilkes-Barre Area School District because the district paid too much buying land in Plains Twp. to build a new high school.

Pens Blank Binghamton

By Tyler PiccottiApril 6, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE TWP. — The performance wasn’t as dominant as the score indicated, but the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins took care of business against the league’s worst team.

Chris Summers put the Penguins on the board early, Sam Lafferty added a goal and an assist, and John Muse made 33 saves in a 4-0 win over the Binghamton Devils at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Pinwheels For Prevention DedicationCeremony Held

Staff reportApril 6, 2019 GMT

The fifth annual Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center’s Pinwheels for Prevention Dedication Ceremony was held Friday at the Luzerne County Court House Rotunda. The event was the Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center’s kick off to Child Abuse Awareness Month in April.

Mixed Results On Candidate Challenges For Primary

Eric MarkApril 4, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — One candidate dropped out voluntarily, a judge ordered one candidate removed from the ballot and four challenges were dismissed. That was the outcome of court hearings for challenges to six nominating petitions in Luzerne County for the May 21 primary, officials said at Wednesday’s meeting of the county Board of Elections.

Summer Concert Series In The Works For Wilkes-Barre

By Steve MocarskyApril 4, 2019 GMT

WILKES-BARRE — Rockin’ the River — a free summer concert series at the River Common — is in the planning stages and expected to debut this July. Luzerne County Manager David Pedri confirmed Wednesday officials are working to secure sponsorships and bands and work out all the details.

W-B Area Sets Groundbreaking

By Michael P. BufferApril 4, 2019 GMT

The Wilkes-Barre Area School District can officially sign 11 construction contracts to build a new consolidated high school in Plains Twp. and has scheduled a groundbreaking event for April 12.