Hocking County • October 27, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. A disturbing discovery in a vacation rental bathroom has shattered trust in the local hospitality industry. What should have been a relaxing getaway turned into a criminal investigation after a hidden camera was found recording guests at a Hocking Hills cabin. The case—resulting in felony convictions for property owner Jason Yard who recorded dozens of unsuspecting visitors—serves as a sobering reminder about privacy vulnerabilities even in seemingly idyllic settings.
In brighter developments, transportation options are expanding dramatically across rural Ohio as GoBus doubles its network with four new routes connecting previously isolated communities. The 15-year-old service has grown from serving 10,000 riders to nearly 130,000 annually. Meanwhile, a $100,000 donation from the Hunger Solutions Mid-Ohio Valley coalition offers temporary relief for food banks facing uncertainty during the government shutdown—though officials stress this generosity won't fully replace the $1.3 million in monthly SNAP benefits at risk.
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📹 Hidden camera in cabin bathroom leads to felony conviction. An Ohio family's vacation turned into a criminal investigation when Alyssa Bradds discovered a concealed camera in their Hocking Hills rental cabin bathroom. Property owner Jason Yard was convicted on felony charges after investigators found videos of at least 49 adults and 13 children potentially recorded at the property. Yard, who had purchased multiple hidden recording devices between 2019-2023, pleaded no contest to illegal use of nudity-oriented material involving a minor. He faces up to 12 years in prison and must register as a sex offender, with sentencing scheduled for November.
🍽️ Local coalition donates $100K to combat hunger during SNAP uncertainty. Hunger Solutions Mid-Ohio Valley is supporting the Southeast Ohio Food Bank after Food and Nutrition Services announced it had run out of funds due to the government shutdown. Without a resolution by October 29, approximately 7,661 Washington County residents—mostly children and elderly—will lose their SNAP benefits for November. The donation, a collaborative effort between Marietta College, Peoples Bank, and Memorial Health Systems, will help maintain food services but isn't a long-term solution for the $1.3 million monthly need. Officials urge the government to restart funding and encourage public donations to the county's 14 local food pantries.
🚌 Rural Ohio gets a transportation lifeline with expanded GoBus service. The Ohio Department of Transportation and HAPCAP are doubling the GoBus intercity network, adding four new routes to connect previously unserved communities across Western and Northern Ohio. The expansion will link thousands more Ohioans to essential services, higher education, and employment opportunities in cities like Bowling Green, Marion, and Oxford. GoBus, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, has grown from 10,000 annual riders in 2010 to more than 129,000 in 2024, with deluxe coaches featuring free WiFi and comfortable amenities. The expanded network will serve 47 counties, connect to 27 local transit systems and 32 universities, with ridership expected to reach 153,000 annually.
Hilltop Logan family haven: This $310,000 gem in Logan features a 4-bed, 1.5-bath home on a hilltop with soaring ceilings, stone fireplace, and a fenced yard complete with gazebo, deck, and firepit for perfect family gatherings.
Renovated ranch near scenic adventures: Priced at $237,000, this remodeled 3-bedroom ranch near Logan offers spacious living areas, updated features, and proximity to Hocking Hills attractions—making it ideal for both homeowners and potential rental investors.
Upgraded ranch ready to love: For $215,000, this well-maintained 3-bedroom ranch in Hocking Hills boasts recent upgrades including a new roof, flooring, bathroom remodel, appliances, and fresh paint throughout.Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
-Psalm 55:22
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