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Andrew Griffin Found Guilty on All Counts in Belmont County Double Murder Trial

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Andrew Griffin Found Guilty on All Counts in Belmont County Double Murder Trial

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — November 5, 2026 — After eight days of testimony and approximately four hours of jury deliberations, Andrew Isaac Griffin has been found guilty on all counts in connection with the 2021 murders of Thomas and Angela Strussion in Belmont County.

The verdict was delivered Wednesday, November 4, bringing the trial phase of the case to a close more than five years after the couple was found shot to death inside their Belmont County home.

A Belmont County jury convicted Griffin of four counts of aggravated murder, each with a firearm specification, and one count of aggravated arson.

Two aggravated murder counts were connected to the death of Thomas Strussion, while the remaining two involved his wife, Angela.

The couple’s deaths in September 2021 led to a lengthy criminal investigation that eventually resulted in charges against Griffin.

Testimony Revealed Alleged Planning Before the Murders

Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented witness testimony and investigative evidence concerning the events surrounding the couple’s deaths.

One of the key witnesses was Brett Cole, a longtime friend of Griffin who is currently serving three life sentences in Illinois for unrelated sex crimes.

Cole testified that he had participated in planning the killing of Thomas Strussion. During his testimony, he described preparations that included obtaining a prepaid cellphone and using a rain suit secured with tape around the wrists.

According to Cole, Griffin later told him that he had shot both Thomas and Angela Strussion before setting their home on fire.

Cole also testified that Griffin believed Thomas Strussion was attempting to arrange for someone to kill him.

The witness received immunity from prosecution in the Strussion case in exchange for truthful testimony.

His statements were among the evidence jurors considered before reaching their verdict.

Jury Reaches Verdict After Four Hours

Following the presentation of evidence and arguments from both sides, the case was turned over to the jury.

Jurors deliberated for approximately four hours Wednesday before returning guilty verdicts on every count.

The convictions include four aggravated murder charges with firearm specifications, as well as aggravated arson related to the fire at the Strussions’ residence.

The verdict represents a major development in a case that has drawn considerable attention throughout Belmont County and the surrounding Ohio Valley.

Sentencing Scheduled for December 1

Belmont County Common Pleas Judge Chris Berhalter has scheduled Griffin’s sentencing hearing for Tuesday, December 1, 2026.

The court will determine Griffin’s sentence at that hearing.

The convictions involve serious felony offenses, and the firearm specifications could affect the penalties imposed.

With the jury’s decision now reached, the case moves into the sentencing phase.

For the families of Thomas and Angela Strussion, the verdict marks a significant step in a legal process that has continued for more than five years.

River News will continue following the case and provide updates following Griffin’s sentencing hearing on December 1.

Visit RiverNews.org for continuing coverage of this case and other breaking news throughout the Ohio Valley.

River News Headlines: Guilty Verdict in Belmont County Double Murder, WWII Airman Coming Home and Local Developments Across the Ohio Valley

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River News Headlines: Guilty Verdict in Belmont County Double Murder, WWII Airman Coming Home and Local Developments Across the Ohio Valley

OHIO VALLEY — November 5, 2026 — A Belmont County jury has reached a guilty verdict in a high-profile double murder trial, the remains of a World War II airman are being returned to Marshall County, and several Ohio Valley communities are addressing infrastructure improvements, government changes and development proposals.

Here is a look at the latest headlines from across the region.

Andrew Griffin Found Guilty in Belmont County Double Murder Trial

A Belmont County jury has found Andrew Isaac Griffin guilty on all counts in connection with the 2021 murders of Thomas and Angela Strussion.

The verdict was delivered Wednesday, November 4, following an eight-day trial. Jurors deliberated for approximately four hours before reaching their decision.

Griffin was convicted of four counts of aggravated murder, each carrying a firearm specification, along with aggravated arson.

Two of the murder counts involved Thomas Strussion, while the other two involved his wife, Angela.

The couple was found shot to death inside their Belmont County home in September 2021.

The trial included testimony from witnesses who described events leading up to the killings, along with evidence presented by investigators.

Belmont County Common Pleas Judge Chris Berhalter has scheduled Griffin’s sentencing for December 1.

Remains of World War II Airman to Return to Marshall County After More Than 80 Years

A Marshall County family is preparing to welcome home a loved one who died while serving his country during World War II.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency has identified the remains of U.S. Army Air Forces Technical Sergeant Raymond Carl Richmond.

Richmond was aboard a B-29 bomber that was shot down over Japan in April 1945.

More than eight decades later, his remains have been identified, allowing his family to arrange a final resting place in his home community.

Richmond is expected to be laid to rest at Salem Cemetery on Veterans Day, November 11.

The identification brings long-awaited closure to his family and marks the return of an American service member who had been missing since World War II.

Martins Ferry Hit-Skip Hydrant Case Ends With Guilty Plea

A truck driver from Arizona has pleaded guilty in connection with a hit-skip incident involving a fire hydrant in Martins Ferry.

Ahmad Mageed Hameed, 39, appeared in court remotely Wednesday and entered a guilty plea to obstructing official business.

The case involves damage to a fire hydrant that resulted in approximately $4,300 in water-related costs.

Under the plea agreement, Hameed is expected to pay restitution before his scheduled sentencing on February 24.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a $750 fine.

Wheeling Moves Forward With Proposed Data Center Regulations

Wheeling officials are continuing work on proposed regulations governing data center development within city limits.

The City Council’s rules committee reviewed and modified a draft ordinance Wednesday, including adjustments to some of its financial provisions.

The proposal is intended to establish local requirements for data centers as interest in the facilities continues to grow.

A first reading of the ordinance could take place at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

The measure would still need to proceed through the city’s legislative approval process before becoming law.

Bridgeport Property Owners Seek to Leave Village Limits

Several Bridgeport property owners are asking Belmont County officials to consider removing their properties from the village.

Five property owners along Kirkwood Heights Road have requested that seven parcels be transferred into Pease Township.

During Wednesday’s Belmont County Commission meeting, resident Randy Becker raised concerns about paying village income taxes while receiving none of several municipal services.

According to Becker, the affected properties do not receive village water, sewer, natural gas or trash collection services.

The property owners believe their parcels should no longer remain within village boundaries.

County commissioners are expected to review the submitted plat maps as they consider the request.

No final decision has been announced.

Moundsville City Manager Announces Plans to Retire

Moundsville City Manager Rick Healy has announced plans to retire by May 1, 2027.

Healy has served as city manager since January 2019.

During a meeting this week, City Council directed Healy to begin the process of finding his replacement.

Healy has indicated that he hopes to remain involved during the transition and assist the incoming city manager in becoming familiar with the position.

His departure will mark the end of more than eight years leading the city’s day-to-day operations.

Steubenville Approves Major Wellesley Avenue Reconstruction Project

Steubenville City Council has approved a waterline and roadway reconstruction project along a portion of Wellesley Avenue.

The project will affect approximately 600 feet of roadway.

City Engineer Michael Dolak explained that crews discovered underground damage resulting from previous waterline breaks.

Because of the damage, what was initially planned as a resurfacing project has expanded into a more extensive reconstruction effort.

The work will involve addressing underground infrastructure problems before rebuilding the affected roadway.

Construction could begin in June 2027.

Belmont County GoBus Route Reports Growing Ridership

A newer public transportation route serving Belmont County is showing signs of increased use.

Ohio Department of Transportation official Kirby Dearth told Belmont County commissioners Wednesday that the GoBus Yellow Line has carried approximately 650 passengers since March.

The service is part of Ohio’s intercity bus transportation network, which helps connect communities with destinations beyond their immediate area.

The ridership figures provide an early indication of demand for the route.

Officials will continue monitoring its performance as the service develops.

Stay connected with River News for continuing coverage of local government, court proceedings, public safety, transportation and community developments throughout the Ohio Valley.

Visit RiverNews.org for the latest news and updates.

Ohio Election Results: Amy Acton Wins Governor’s Race, Sherrod Brown Returns to U.S. Senate

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Ohio Election Results: Amy Acton Wins Governor’s Race, Sherrod Brown Returns to U.S. Senate

COLUMBUS, Ohio — November 4, 2026 — Ohio voters delivered major victories for Democrats in Tuesday’s general election, choosing Amy Acton as the state’s next governor and returning former U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown to Washington.

The November 3 election brought significant changes to Ohio’s political leadership, with Democrats winning several prominent statewide contests following years of Republican success in the state.

Amy Acton Makes History in Governor’s Race

Democrat Dr. Amy Acton defeated Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in one of the nation’s most closely watched gubernatorial elections.

Acton, Ohio’s former health director, becomes the first woman elected governor in the state’s history and the first Democrat to win the office since 2006.

She will succeed Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, who was unable to seek another term because of term limits.

Acton became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic while serving as Ohio’s health director under DeWine.

Her campaign focused heavily on affordability, health care and economic concerns affecting working families.

Ramaswamy, a businessman and former presidential candidate, entered the race with the backing of President Donald Trump.

The campaign attracted national attention and significant political spending, particularly during its final weeks.

Acton’s victory marks a major change in Ohio’s statewide political leadership.

Sherrod Brown Defeats Jon Husted in U.S. Senate Race

Democrat Sherrod Brown also secured a major victory Tuesday, defeating Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted.

Brown’s win marks a political comeback after he lost his Senate seat to Republican Bernie Moreno in the 2024 election.

Husted was appointed to the Senate in 2025 by Gov. DeWine after JD Vance became vice president.

Tuesday’s election determined who would serve the remainder of Vance’s original Senate term, which ends in January 2029.

Brown’s victory gives Democrats a Senate seat previously held by Republicans.

Throughout the campaign, Brown emphasized issues affecting working families, including wages, energy costs and economic development.

The contest was among the most closely watched Senate races in the country.

Democrat Allison Russo Wins Secretary of State Race

Ohio voters also elected Democrat Allison Russo as the state’s next secretary of state.

Russo defeated Republican Robert Sprague, Ohio’s current treasurer, and Libertarian candidate Tom Pruss.

Russo previously served in the Ohio House of Representatives, including time as House minority leader.

As secretary of state, she will oversee Ohio’s elections and several other responsibilities of the office, including business filings.

Her victory gives Democrats another important statewide position.

Ohio Voters Approve Issue 3

Ohio voters also approved State Issue 3, a constitutional amendment involving voter identification requirements.

The measure requires voters to present an approved form of government-issued photo identification when voting.

The issue received majority support statewide and was approved during Tuesday’s election.

Additional Statewide Results Await Final Confirmation

Other statewide contests included races for attorney general, auditor, treasurer and seats on the Ohio Supreme Court.

Some of those races remained too close to call in Wednesday morning reporting, and final results will depend on the completion of vote counting and the official canvass.

County election boards will review election returns before results are certified.

Election Results Signal Political Changes Across Ohio

The victories by Acton and Brown represent a significant development in a state that has increasingly supported Republican candidates in recent elections.

Both races attracted national attention as voters considered issues including the economy, health care, energy costs and the direction of government.

For communities throughout the Ohio Valley, the election results will bring new leadership at the state level and a change in Ohio’s representation in the U.S. Senate.

Although major races have been called, election night totals remain unofficial until the certification process is complete.

River News will continue following statewide and local election results as additional information becomes available.

Belmont County Sheriff’s Office Welcomes Newly Hired Deputy Brian Horne Jr.

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Belmont County Sheriff’s Office Welcomes Newly Hired Deputy Brian Horne Jr.

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office has welcomed a new member to its law enforcement team as Deputy Brian Carl Horne Jr. begins his career with the department.

Belmont County Sheriff James G. Zusack recently announced Horne’s hiring, extending a warm welcome and congratulations to the newest deputy.

The sheriff’s office shared a photo of Sheriff Zusack alongside Deputy Horne, marking the occasion and recognizing his addition to the department.

In its announcement, the sheriff’s office expressed its support for Horne as he begins his new role, wishing him a safe, successful and rewarding career serving the residents of Belmont County.

As a member of the sheriff’s office, Horne joins the department responsible for providing law enforcement services and helping maintain public safety throughout the county.

The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office congratulated Deputy Horne on his new position and welcomed him to the team.

Laura Wakim Chapman Wins Re-Election to West Virginia Senate, Defeats Shawn Fluharty

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Laura Wakim Chapman Wins Re-Election to West Virginia Senate, Defeats Shawn Fluharty

WHEELING, W.Va. — Republican State Sen. Laura Wakim Chapman has secured another term representing West Virginia’s First Senate District after defeating Democratic challenger Shawn Fluharty in Tuesday’s general election.

According to election night results, Chapman received 14,545 votes, while Fluharty finished with 12,737 votes, giving the incumbent a victory by 1,808 votes.

The race drew significant attention throughout the Northern Panhandle as voters decided who would represent Hancock, Brooke, Ohio and Marshall counties in the West Virginia Senate.

Although Fluharty received more votes in Ohio County, Chapman gained enough support in the district’s other three counties to secure the win.

Chapman, who is completing her first term in the Senate, faced Fluharty, a longtime member of the West Virginia House of Delegates who is finishing his sixth term.

Following her victory, Chapman thanked her campaign supporters and emphasized her commitment to remaining accessible to residents throughout the district.

She credited her continued involvement in local communities and responsiveness to constituents as important factors in her re-election.

Looking ahead to her next term, Chapman said she intends to continue advocating for infrastructure improvements, economic development and efforts to address rising utility costs.

She also indicated that several economic development projects she has been involved with could be announced in the coming months.

Chapman has emphasized the importance of ensuring Northern Panhandle communities receive attention from state leaders in Charleston, particularly when it comes to infrastructure investments and economic opportunities.

A constitutional attorney, Chapman is a graduate of West Virginia University and the WVU College of Law. She also attended the former Mount de Chantal Academy in Wheeling.

Her re-election keeps the First Senate District seat in Republican hands as West Virginia lawmakers prepare for the next legislative session in January.

The results reflect election night vote totals and remain subject to the official certification process.

Ohio Valley Voters Head to Polls as Major Statewide Races and Local Levies Take Center Stage

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Ohio Valley Voters Head to Polls as Major Statewide Races and Local Levies Take Center Stage

OHIO VALLEY — November 3, 2026 — Election Day is underway across Ohio and West Virginia as voters head to the polls to decide several closely watched statewide races, county leadership positions and local tax levies that could impact communities throughout the region.

From Ohio’s race for governor to county commission contests and school funding proposals, voters have several important decisions to make before polls close Tuesday evening.

One of Ohio’s most closely watched contests is the race for governor between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Dr. Amy Acton. The two candidates are competing to succeed Gov. Mike DeWine.

Ohio voters are also choosing a U.S. senator, with Republican Jon Husted facing Democrat Sherrod Brown.

While statewide races are attracting significant attention, several local contests could have a direct impact on Ohio Valley communities.

In Belmont County, Republican Dominic DeFelice and Democrat Franklin Shaffer Jr. are competing for the county commission seat currently held by retiring Commissioner Jerry Echemann.

Across the Ohio River in Marshall County, West Virginia, voters will choose between Republican Jim Kudlak, a retired police chief, and Democrat Leigh Ann Scherich, a bank executive, for an open county commission seat.

Marshall County residents will also vote on a school levy that could affect funding for local education.

In West Virginia’s First Senate District, Republican incumbent Laura Wakim Chapman is seeking another term against Democratic challenger Shawn Fluharty.

Several school districts and counties are also asking voters to weigh in on funding measures.

In Jefferson County, Ohio, voters in the Edison Local School District will consider a school levy. A separate school levy is on the ballot for residents of the East Palestine school district in Columbiana County.

Emergency services funding is another issue before voters, with 911 levies appearing on ballots in Jefferson and Guernsey counties.

These local ballot measures could influence how schools and emergency communication services are funded in the coming years.

Polls in both Ohio and West Virginia close at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. Anyone already waiting in line when the polls close will still be allowed to vote.

Residents who are unsure of their assigned polling location can contact their county election office for assistance.

As ballots are counted Tuesday evening, attention will turn to the results of both statewide contests and local races that will help shape the future of Ohio Valley communities.

For continuing Election Day coverage and local election updates, visit RiverNews.org.

River News Headlines: Election Day Across Ohio Valley, New Testimony in Belmont County Murder Trial and Fatal Crash

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River News Headlines: Election Day Across Ohio Valley, New Testimony in Belmont County Murder Trial and Fatal Crash

OHIO VALLEY — November 3, 2026 — Voters across Ohio and West Virginia are heading to the polls today as several important statewide and local races are decided. Meanwhile, new testimony has emerged in the Belmont County double murder trial, a Powhatan Point man has died following a crash, and West Virginia officials are reporting a shortfall in October tax collections.

Election Day Brings Important Statewide and Local Decisions

Residents across Ohio and West Virginia are casting their ballots today in the November 3 general election.

In Ohio, one of the most closely watched races is the contest for governor between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Dr. Amy Acton.

Ohio voters are also deciding a U.S. Senate race between Republican Jon Husted and Democrat Sherrod Brown.

Several local races and ballot issues are also drawing attention throughout the Ohio Valley.

In Belmont County, Republican Dominic DeFelice faces Democrat Franklin Shaffer Jr. for the county commission seat being vacated by retiring Commissioner Jerry Echemann.

In Marshall County, West Virginia, Republican Jim Kudlak, a retired police chief, is running against Democrat Leigh Ann Scherich, a bank executive, for an open county commission seat.

Marshall County voters will also consider a school levy.

Other local ballot issues include school levies in the Edison Local School District in Jefferson County and the East Palestine school district in Columbiana County, along with 911 levies in Jefferson and Guernsey counties.

In West Virginia’s First Senate District, Republican incumbent Laura Wakim Chapman faces Democratic challenger Shawn Fluharty.

Polls in Ohio and West Virginia close at 7:30 p.m. Voters already in line at closing time will still be allowed to cast their ballots.

Witness Describes Alleged Murder Plot in Belmont County Double Homicide Trial

New testimony Monday in the Belmont County double murder trial of Andrew Isaac Griffin included allegations that Griffin discussed plans to kill Thomas Strussion before the deaths of Strussion and his wife, Angela.

Brett Cole, described as Griffin’s lifelong friend, testified after being transported from Illinois, where he is serving three life sentences for sex crimes.

Cole received immunity from charges connected to the Strussion case in exchange for truthful testimony.

During his testimony, Cole said he helped plan the killing of Thomas Strussion. He described preparations involving a prepaid cellphone and a rain suit secured with tape around the wrists.

Cole also testified that Griffin later told him he had shot the couple and set their home on fire.

According to Cole, Griffin believed Thomas Strussion was attempting to arrange for someone to kill him. Cole described Griffin’s alleged thinking as a situation in which it was “kill or be killed.”

The testimony is part of the prosecution’s case and does not establish that the allegations are proven.

Griffin faces murder and arson charges in connection with the couple’s deaths. He remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Court proceedings were scheduled to resume Tuesday morning at 8:45.

Powhatan Point Man Dies Following Fiery Crash in Belmont County

A 59-year-old Powhatan Point man has died following a single-vehicle crash Monday morning in Belmont County.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, John Makris was driving a pickup truck along State Route 148 when the vehicle left the roadway and caught fire.

Troopers reported that Makris was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Additional details about the circumstances leading to the accident were not included in the initial report.

West Virginia Reports October Revenue Shortfall

West Virginia’s general revenue collections fell below expectations in October, according to figures released by state officials.

Department of Revenue Secretary Eric Nelson reported that the state collected approximately $380 million during the month, about $7.7 million less than projected.

Despite the monthly shortfall, overall revenue collections remain ahead of estimates.

The state has collected approximately $1.79 billion so far, more than 3% above projections.

The figures indicate that while October revenues were weaker than anticipated, total collections remain above the state’s financial forecast.

Marshall County Animal Shelter Launches Online Adoption System

The Marshall County Animal Shelter is introducing a new digital adoption process designed to make it easier for residents to find and apply for available pets.

The shelter is transitioning to Shelterluv, a management system that allows prospective adopters to submit applications online.

Shelter employees will continue reviewing each application before approving an adoption.

The system also connects with Petfinder, allowing newly entered animals to appear in online listings within approximately 30 minutes.

Shelter officials hope the changes will simplify paperwork, provide more current information about available animals and allow staff to spend more time caring for pets.

Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to review the shelter’s available animals and complete the appropriate application.

For continuing coverage of Election Day, breaking news, court proceedings and community updates across the Ohio Valley, visit RiverNews.org.

Junior Avenue Bridge in Elm Grove to Experience Intermittent Closures for Crosswalk Installation

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Junior Avenue Bridge in Elm Grove to Experience Intermittent Closures for Crosswalk Installation

WHEELING, W.Va. — Motorists traveling through Elm Grove should prepare for temporary traffic disruptions as the Junior Avenue Bridge is scheduled to experience intermittent closures while crews install crosswalks.

According to a traffic advisory, the bridge will be closed periodically between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. to allow crews to complete the work.

The closures are expected to be intermittent rather than continuous, meaning drivers may be able to cross the bridge between periods of construction activity.

The project involves the installation of crosswalks intended to improve pedestrian access in the area.

Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time, use alternate routes when necessary and remain alert for workers and changing traffic conditions.

Drivers should also be prepared for possible delays throughout the scheduled work period.

No additional information has been provided regarding the exact duration of each closure.

River News Headlines: Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Enters Plea, Animal Shelter Overcrowded and Election Day Approaches

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River News Headlines: Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Enters Plea, Animal Shelter Overcrowded and Election Day Approaches

OHIO VALLEY — November 2, 2026 — Several developments are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including a court decision involving Mingo Junction’s former fire chief, new charges against a Wellsville couple, concerns over school funding in West Virginia and an urgent need for homes for animals at the Ohio County Animal Shelter.

Meanwhile, voters in Ohio and West Virginia are preparing to head to the polls Tuesday for the November 3 general election.

Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Pleads No Contest

Former Mingo Junction Fire Chief Brandon Montgomery entered a no-contest plea Friday in Jefferson County court in a case involving allegations made by women he previously supervised.

Jefferson County Prosecutor Jane Hanlin said Montgomery will serve community control, which includes regular court check-ins, monitoring and searches.

Hanlin also indicated that harmful social media posts or other communications directed toward the women involved or witnesses could result in jail time.

Despite the court proceedings, the employment dispute surrounding Montgomery remains unresolved.

Mingo Junction Mayor Judy Ruckman confirmed that Montgomery remains terminated from his position. Village Council President Adam Peeler said disagreements involving his employment and compensation are continuing.

Wellsville Couple Faces Charges After Missing Juvenile Found Beneath Home

A Wellsville couple appeared in court Friday after authorities reported finding a missing juvenile hiding underneath their residence.

Timothy Patrick and Kelly Reed were arraigned on misdemeanor charges of obstructing official business and interference with custody.

According to the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were searching for a juvenile who was wanted on a warrant when they discovered the teenager beneath the home.

Authorities said the juvenile crawled out after deputies called for them.

The charges against Patrick and Reed remain allegations, and both are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

West Virginia Requests Delay in School Funding Lawsuit

West Virginia officials are asking the state’s Supreme Court to postpone proceedings in a lawsuit challenging the state’s public school funding system.

The American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia filed the lawsuit in September, seeking changes to how public education is funded across the state.

State attorneys have requested that the case be delayed until April, arguing that lawmakers are already examining the existing school funding formula.

The West Virginia Legislature is scheduled to convene January 13, giving lawmakers an opportunity to consider potential changes during the upcoming legislative session.

The ACLU is seeking a court order requiring changes to the current funding system.

Ohio County Animal Shelter Seeks Foster Homes and Adopters Following Animal Seizure

The Ohio County Animal Shelter is facing serious overcrowding after approximately 15 additional dogs arrived following an animal seizure.

Shelter staff reported that the main facility has space for 26 dogs and was already housing 24 before the latest arrivals.

With adoptions reportedly declining, the shelter is asking community members to consider fostering or adopting animals to help ease the pressure on its facilities.

Foster homes can provide temporary care while shelter staff work to find permanent placements.

Residents interested in helping are encouraged to contact the Ohio County Animal Shelter for information about available animals and fostering opportunities.

Ohio and West Virginia Voters Prepare for Election Day Tuesday

Voters across Ohio and West Virginia will head to the polls Tuesday, November 3, for the general election.

Polling locations in both states are scheduled to open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m.

Voters who are already in line when polls close will still be permitted to cast their ballots.

Residents who are uncertain about their assigned polling location are encouraged to contact their county election office before heading out.

The election will determine several important statewide and local races, including Ohio’s next governor.

With Election Day just one day away, election officials are encouraging registered voters to make plans to participate.

For continuing coverage of local news, court developments, community issues and Election Day updates throughout the Ohio Valley, visit RiverNews.org.

Marshall County Animal Shelter Introduces Online Adoption Applications and Updated Pet Listings

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Marshall County Animal Shelter Introduces Online Adoption Applications and Updated Pet Listings

MARSHALL COUNTY — Finding a new furry family member is becoming easier as the Marshall County Animal Shelter introduces a new online system designed to simplify pet adoptions and help residents find available animals.

The shelter announced that it is transitioning to Shelterluv, a digital management platform that allows staff to organize animal records, review adoption applications and manage the adoption process more efficiently.

One of the biggest changes is the ability for prospective pet owners to complete adoption applications online rather than relying entirely on paperwork at the shelter.

Applications will be reviewed by shelter staff, and submitting an application does not guarantee approval or that a particular animal will still be available.

The new system will also provide more timely updates about animals looking for homes.

Through an integration with Petfinder, animals entered into the shelter’s system are expected to appear on Petfinder within approximately 30 minutes. This will allow residents to browse a more current list of adoptable pets.

The shelter emphasized that it will continue using Facebook to share photos, stories and updates about animals in its care. However, residents are encouraged to check its Petfinder listings for the most up-to-date information about available animals.

Those interested in adopting can now submit applications through the following links:

Shelter officials said the transition has been underway for several months and acknowledged that staff members are still becoming familiar with the new system.

The goal is to reduce time spent on administrative tasks while allowing employees to focus more attention on animal care and helping pets find permanent homes.

The shelter thanked the community for its continued patience and support as the new adoption process is introduced.

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