Licking County • May 8, 2025
Good morning, Licking County. The old adage "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is" has painful relevance for one 81-year-old who lost $1,300 to scammers posing as bail bondsmen. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder that fraudsters continually target vulnerable residents with increasingly sophisticated schemes—a stark contrast to the genuine support systems being established through initiatives like the new HOME court program.
On a more high-tech front, QinetiQ US is strengthening national defense with its lightweight LAST Armor® Integration solution for the Army's next-generation assault aircraft. The Massachusetts-manufactured protective system, which has already shielded thousands of combat vehicles since 1991, will continue the company's 20-year legacy as the largest global provider of add-on aircraft armor. From community-focused justice programs to cutting-edge military technology, our region continues to contribute to both local and national progress.
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💸 Elderly man tricked into paying $1,300 for son's fake bail. An 81-year-old Bowling Green resident fell victim to scammers posing as bail bondsmen who claimed his son needed bond money after a domestic violence arrest. The father realized he was being scammed when they demanded an additional $625 for an ankle monitor. His bank froze the compromised card and promised to return the stolen funds. Police are preparing to issue a subpoena once they receive transaction reports from the victim.
🏠 Licking County launches HOME court to help homeless offenders avoid jail. The new Housing Opportunities Through Municipal Engagement program diverts nonviolent misdemeanor offenders experiencing homelessness into services instead of traditional court proceedings. Bobby Kelley, arrested for trespassing in a condemned building, was the first participant in Wednesday's inaugural session overseen by Magistrate Teresa Liston. Instead of requiring a guilty plea, HOME court asked Kelley to complete practical tasks like obtaining identification and connecting with medical services. The program was created following Newark's controversial camping ban that prohibits sleeping in public spaces.
🛡️ QinetiQ US secures contract to armor Army's next-gen assault aircraft. The defense company will provide its LAST Armor® Integration solution to support the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft program through a partnership with Integris Composites. LAST Armor® is a lightweight, high-performance protective system that has shielded thousands of combat vehicles since 1991 and is currently used in over 40 aircraft types across 16 allied countries. QinetiQ will manufacture the armor solutions at its Massachusetts facility, continuing its 20-year legacy as the largest global provider of add-on aircraft armor. The technology utilizes advanced ceramics and high-performance fibers to ensure mission success and crew protection.
Spacious countryside oasis near highways: This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home on 18.2 acres is listed at $670,000, featuring a massive 40x40 garage, new pool, and easy access to interstate 70 and State Route 40.
Spacious bi-level with wooded views: Priced at $259,000, this charming 3-bedroom bi-level home features a wood-burning fireplace, spacious kitchen, and fenced backyard, offering convenient access to restaurants, shops, and schools with wooded views.
Corner ranch with bonus potential: This 3 bed, 2 bath ranch home on a corner lot is on the market for $230,000. The property features original hardwood floors, a partially finished basement, and potential bonus space for an office or gym.
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