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Epstein Survivors’ Lawsuits Against Ohio Billionaire Les Wexner Consolidated Into Single Federal Case

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Epstein Survivors’ Lawsuits Against Ohio Billionaire Les Wexner Consolidated Into Single Federal Case

NEW ALBANY, Ohio — Two federal lawsuits filed by survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein against Ohio billionaire Les Wexner and The Wexner Foundation have been combined into a single legal case.

A federal judge in New York ruled that the lawsuits involve similar allegations and should move forward together in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

The lawsuits accuse Wexner, The Wexner Foundation and Nine East 71st Street Corporation of providing Epstein with the financial resources, property and influence that plaintiffs claim enabled his decades-long sex trafficking operation.

Court filings allege Epstein relied on Wexner’s wealth, business relationship and access to properties to facilitate the abuse of numerous victims.

One of the primary allegations centers on a Manhattan mansion formerly owned by Wexner. Plaintiffs claim they were sexually abused by Epstein at the property between 2000 and 2016.

Wexner’s legal team disputes those claims, arguing he sold both the property and the corporation that owned it to an Epstein-controlled company in 1998—before the alleged abuse outlined in the lawsuits occurred. Attorneys also state Wexner stopped regularly using the residence years before its sale and maintained Ohio as his primary residence.

The lawsuits further allege Epstein received significant financial support during his years of association with Wexner. Congressional investigators have previously reported that Epstein gained access to hundreds of millions of dollars through his business relationship with the retail executive.

Wexner has repeatedly denied any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal conduct and has never been charged with any crime related to Epstein’s activities.

In a statement filed with the court, Wexner’s representatives said they have sympathy for Epstein’s victims but maintain there is no factual basis supporting the claims against him. His attorneys have asked the court to dismiss the case.

The combined lawsuit now includes claims from 13 Epstein survivors. Attorneys for both sides are scheduled to participate in a court conference on Aug. 6 as the case moves forward.

Father Sentenced to 15 Years After Providing Gun Used in Deadly Georgia School Shooting

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Father Sentenced to 15 Years After Providing Gun Used in Deadly Georgia School Shooting

BARROW COUNTY, Ga. — The father of the teenager responsible for the 2024 mass shooting at Apalachee High School has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted on charges connected to the attack.

A Georgia judge handed down the sentence Thursday to Colin Gray, days after his son, Colt Gray, received a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole for killing two students and two teachers during the Sept. 4, 2024, shooting.

During sentencing, Judge Nicholas Primm said the case demonstrated a serious failure in parental responsibility while acknowledging the challenge of sentencing a crime based on negligence rather than intent.

Earlier this year, a jury found Colin Gray guilty of second-degree murder in the deaths of 14-year-old students Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo, as well as involuntary manslaughter in the deaths of teachers Richard Aspinwall, 39, and Cristina Irimie, 53.

The shooting also left another teacher and eight students injured.

Prosecutors argued that Colin Gray gave his son the semiautomatic rifle used in the attack as a Christmas gift, along with ammunition and other shooting accessories. They also presented evidence that warning signs surrounding the teenager’s mental health and fascination with previous mass shootings had been ignored.

According to testimony presented during the trial, Colt Gray had displayed troubling behavior in the months leading up to the shooting, and family members had expressed concerns about his access to firearms.

Victims’ families urged the court to impose the maximum sentence, saying the tragedy could have been prevented if stronger safeguards had been in place.

Defense attorneys argued that Colin Gray never intended for the shooting to occur and requested a lighter sentence, saying his son concealed the extent of his behavior and online activity.

Judge Primm ultimately sentenced Gray to 15 years in prison, stating that while he did not carry out the shooting himself, he failed to act despite numerous warning signs and failed to prevent his son’s access to firearms.

The case is one of a growing number across the United States in which parents have faced criminal charges after prosecutors alleged their actions contributed to school shootings. Earlier this year, Michigan parents Jennifer and James Crumbley were each sentenced to 10 years in prison following the 2021 Oxford High School shooting involving their son.

Colt Gray will spend the remainder of his life in prison without the possibility of parole for the attack.

Federal Lease Proposal Could Open Nearly 2,900 Acres of Wayne National Forest to Fracking

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Federal Lease Proposal Could Open Nearly 2,900 Acres of Wayne National Forest to Fracking

MARIETTA, Ohio — Federal officials are moving forward with plans that could allow oil and natural gas drilling on nearly 2,900 acres of Ohio’s Wayne National Forest, with a lease auction scheduled for September.

The Bureau of Land Management announced that companies will be able to bid on oil and gas leases during a Sept. 15 sale. The proposal includes approximately 2,840 acres within the Marietta Unit of Wayne National Forest, primarily in Washington and Monroe counties.

While obtaining a lease does not automatically authorize drilling, companies would be eligible to pursue permits for future oil and gas development on the leased parcels.

Hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as fracking, is a drilling technique used to extract oil and natural gas from underground shale formations by injecting water, sand and other materials at high pressure to release trapped resources.

The proposal has drawn both support and opposition.

Environmental organizations, including the Ohio Environmental Council and the Center for Biological Diversity, argue the project could negatively impact forest ecosystems, wildlife habitat and air quality. Conservation groups have challenged previous efforts to lease portions of Wayne National Forest, and earlier proposals were blocked in federal court after judges found flaws in the government’s environmental review.

Federal officials later completed a new environmental assessment, allowing the current leasing process to move forward.

Supporters of expanded drilling say developing additional oil and natural gas resources could strengthen domestic energy production, create jobs and generate economic activity throughout southeastern Ohio. Industry advocates also point to the region’s role within the Appalachian shale formations, one of the nation’s leading natural gas-producing areas.

Wayne National Forest spans roughly 240,000 acres across southeastern Ohio and is the state’s only national forest.

The Bureau of Land Management is accepting public comments and formal protests on the proposed lease sale through Aug. 17 before the Sept. 15 auction moves forward.

Hancock County Man Accused of Stealing More Than $11,000 From Youth Sports League

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Hancock County Man Accused of Stealing More Than $11,000 From Youth Sports League

HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — A Hancock County man is facing a felony embezzlement charge after investigators allege he stole more than $11,000 from a local youth baseball and softball organization while serving as its treasurer.

According to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, David Andrew Brown was arrested Wednesday following an investigation into the finances of the Oak Glen Jr. Baseball and Softball Association.

The investigation began in early June after newly elected board members reported concerns about irregularities in the organization’s financial records. Officials said they provided documentation to investigators showing numerous questionable withdrawals and purchases that appeared unrelated to the league’s operations.

Detectives obtained financial records from multiple businesses and service providers as part of the investigation.

According to the criminal complaint, investigators found checks allegedly written from the association’s account to pay Brown’s personal utility bill. Additional records reportedly showed organization funds were used to purchase personal items, including clothing, hygiene products, automotive parts, gift cards, food, home security equipment and cleaning supplies from several retailers.

Authorities also allege money from the league’s account was used to purchase postal money orders that were applied toward personal credit card accounts.

Investigators estimate the documented losses exceed $11,000. Officials said that total does not include additional cash Brown allegedly admitted taking from registration fees, concession sales and raffle proceeds, nor money reportedly used to make payments on personal vehicles.

During an interview with investigators, Brown allegedly admitted to taking the money, telling detectives much of it was used to pay personal credit card debt. According to the complaint, he also stated the money was easy to steal because the organization lacked sufficient financial oversight.

The Oak Glen Jr. Baseball and Softball Association said its newly elected board identified financial irregularities during a review of the organization’s records and immediately turned the matter over to law enforcement rather than handling it internally.

The association said it has already begun implementing stronger financial controls, improved recordkeeping procedures and additional accountability measures to help prevent similar issues in the future.

Brown was released after posting a $20,000 bond. A court date has not yet been announced.

The association’s vice president said Brown’s removal from the organization is expected to be considered at the board’s next meeting.

Brown has retained legal counsel.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Missing West Virginia Teen Found Safe; False Information Leads to Arrest

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Missing West Virginia Teen Found Safe; False Information Leads to Arrest

RANGER, W.Va. — A 15-year-old West Virginia girl who had been reported missing has been found safe, and investigators say false information provided during the investigation led to the arrest of one man.

The West Virginia State Police announced Thursday afternoon that Holly Sanders has been located safely and is now in the custody of law enforcement.

The investigation began after troopers learned Sanders had disappeared from Ranger in Wayne County. Authorities later determined she had actually been missing since Monday, July 27, despite initially receiving information that she had been seen days later.

Investigators said the case took a significant turn after discovering that statements provided to troopers about Sanders’ whereabouts were false. According to state police, Carson Toppins, 47, of Milton, was arrested and charged with providing false information and obstructing an officer after investigators determined he knowingly misled law enforcement during the investigation.

Police also said charges against a juvenile are pending.

State police have not released additional information about where Sanders was found or the circumstances surrounding her recovery. The investigation remains ongoing.

Belmont County Commissioners Advance Levy Renewals, Approve Senior Services and Jail Agreements

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Belmont County Commissioners Advance Levy Renewals, Approve Senior Services and Jail Agreements

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — The Belmont County Board of Commissioners approved several measures during Wednesday’s meeting, including placing two property tax levies before voters this November, purchasing new equipment for senior meal deliveries and renewing contracts for services at the Belmont County Jail.

Commissioners adopted resolutions declaring the need to renew a 0.75-mill levy that supports Belmont County 911 operations and a 0.75-mill renewal levy for Senior Services of Belmont County. The senior services levy represents a reduction from its current one-mill rate, while the 911 levy will remain unchanged if approved by voters.

County officials said the resolutions will now be forwarded to the Belmont County Board of Elections so both measures can be placed on the November general election ballot.

The board also approved the purchase of a Hot Shot Box, a specialized insulated food delivery unit, for nearly $38,000. The equipment will be installed on a recently purchased 2026 Ford F-150 and used by Senior Services to help keep meals warm during deliveries.

County officials said Senior Services currently delivers more than 1,100 meals each day to older residents throughout Belmont County.

In other business, commissioners authorized the Belmont County Department of Job and Family Services to transfer more than $102,000 from the Public Assistance Fund to the Child Support Enforcement Agency Fund for Fiscal Year 2026.

The board also renewed two annual contracts for operations at the Belmont County Jail. One agreement continues commissary services for inmates, while the second renews the jail’s inmate telephone service. Both contracts will remain in effect through mid-2027.

Commissioners said the agreements allow outside vendors to continue providing services that support daily operations at the county jail.

Brooke County Program Repairs Donated Vehicles, Gives Them to Families in Need

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Brooke County Program Repairs Donated Vehicles, Gives Them to Families in Need

BROOKE COUNTY, W.Va. — A Brooke County man is turning donated vehicles into a lifeline for people who need reliable transportation, helping residents get to work, medical appointments and other essential destinations.

Brian Shafer launched the effort in memory of his late brother and works alongside the House of David to collect donated vehicles, repair them and provide them free of charge to individuals facing transportation challenges.

Shafer said the idea grew after repeatedly seeing social media posts from people asking for rides because they had no dependable way to get to work or doctor’s appointments. Without reliable transportation, many risk losing their jobs or missing important medical care.

The program accepts vehicle donations in a wide range of conditions. Cars that need minor mechanical work are repaired by volunteer mechanics, inspected for safety and then given to qualified recipients at no cost.

Organizers say many vehicles that owners no longer want can still make a meaningful difference after a few repairs.

Anyone interested in donating a vehicle can do so through the House of David, where the cars are restored and matched with local residents in need of dependable transportation.

Nearly 90-Year-Old Steubenville Bakery Expanding Hours and Menu

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Nearly 90-Year-Old Steubenville Bakery Expanding Hours and Menu

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — One of Steubenville’s longest-running businesses is entering a new chapter as Steubenville Bakery prepares to expand its operating schedule and offer customers more opportunities to stop in.

The family-owned bakery, which has served the community since 1937, has traditionally been open three days each week. Owner Matt Belardine announced the business will soon expand to five days of operation, giving customers additional access throughout the week.

Beginning with the new schedule, the bakery will be open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., along with its regular Sunday hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Belardine said the expanded schedule is aimed at making the bakery more convenient and accessible while continuing to serve its loyal customer base.

Steubenville Mayor Ralph Petrella praised the bakery’s continued growth, saying the nearly 90-year-old business remains an important part of the city’s downtown and demonstrates the strength of locally owned small businesses.

In addition to longer hours, customers can also expect new menu offerings as the bakery continues to grow.

Belardine said the business takes pride in its South End roots and hopes to continue building on the neighborhood’s longstanding sense of community while serving generations of local families.

Morrisey Says West Virginia Well Ahead of Pace on Long-Term Energy Strategy

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Morrisey Says West Virginia Well Ahead of Pace on Long-Term Energy Strategy

WHEELING, W.Va. — Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia has already made significant progress toward the state’s long-term energy vision, with this year’s economic development announcements putting the state well ahead of schedule.

Speaking during a visit to Wheeling, Morrisey said projects announced so far this year have already achieved nearly 20% of the goals outlined in his 25-year energy strategy.

The governor’s plan calls for continued investment in coal, natural gas, nuclear power and electric transmission infrastructure while using those resources to attract new businesses, create higher-paying jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.

The Northern Panhandle is expected to play a key role in that effort. Marshall County is already preparing for construction of a more than $1 billion natural gas-fired power plant, while state leaders continue promoting the region as a destination for data centers and other industries with high energy demands.

Morrisey said Ohio County’s transportation network, skilled workforce and access to existing energy infrastructure make the area well-positioned for future private investment.

Beyond increasing energy production, the governor said the broader goal is to improve economic opportunities for West Virginians by encouraging business growth, expanding infrastructure and supporting long-term workforce development.

State officials say additional announcements involving energy, manufacturing and data center projects are expected in the coming months as West Virginia continues pursuing its long-range economic and energy objectives.

Wheeling to Demolish Vacant Elm Grove Building After Securing State Funding

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Wheeling to Demolish Vacant Elm Grove Building After Securing State Funding

WHEELING, W.Va. — A long-abandoned commercial building along National Road in Elm Grove is expected to be demolished this fall after city officials secured state funding to address growing safety concerns.

The structure, commonly known as the former TCI Building, has sat vacant for years after previously serving as a telecommunications facility before being acquired by Comcast. The City of Wheeling purchased the property in 2024, but officials say its deteriorating condition now poses a risk to pedestrians and motorists traveling through the area.

State funding has been approved to cover the project, including asbestos abatement and demolition. The winning bid totals approximately $130,000.

Sixth Ward Councilman Dave Palmer said the city worked under a tight deadline to meet state requirements tied to the funding. Council recently approved the necessary legislation to keep the project on schedule.

According to Palmer, the building has continued to deteriorate after sitting unused for more than two decades, raising concerns that it could eventually collapse if left standing.

Members of the Elm Grove Business Association say they had hoped someone would restore the building, but agree demolition has become the most practical option given its current condition.

No redevelopment plans have been announced for the property once the structure is removed.

City officials expect demolition work to be completed by the end of September.

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