Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Pike County / June 26, 2025

🚲 Pedal perplexities

Pike County • June 26, 2025

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Good morning, Pike County. One man's bicycle ride turned into an unexpected trip to jail this week when Blake Madru was arrested while pedaling a stolen bike through town. Despite his creative explanation involving a supposed purchase from Lindsey Allen (who promptly denied any such transaction), Madru found himself facing charges of receiving stolen property—with a stolen lawn mower discovery adding to his troubles and an existing warrant completing his trifecta of legal woes.

Meanwhile, former park director Joe Letsche is channeling his environmental passion into action, organizing a Scioto River cleanup this Saturday that tackles homeless camp debris before it pollutes local waterways. His nonprofit's approach of "action over blame" offers a refreshing perspective on community problem-solving. And in a testament to their busy schedule, Chillicothe police managed an impressive 22 incidents in a single Monday—from firearm theft investigations to warrant arrests—showcasing the department's daily dedication to keeping our community safe.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🚲 Stolen bicycle leads to arrest of Ross County man. Blake Madru was taken into custody on June 24th after police caught him riding a stolen bike. He claimed to have purchased the bicycle from Lindsey Allen, who denied selling it to him. Officers also recovered a stolen Milwaukee battery-powered lawn mower from a garage on Yoctangee Parkway. Madru was charged with receiving stolen property and transported to Ross County Jail, where he also faces a separate warrant for failure to comply.

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🌊 Former park director tackles homeless camp litter before it pollutes waterways. Joe Letsche, who previously led the Ross County Park District, has organized a cleanup this Saturday along the Scioto River behind Shawnee Square mall. His nonprofit "Clean the Streams Southern Ohio" focuses on removing trash from abandoned camps before it washes into local waterways. The June 28th event partners with Centerpoint Church, continuing efforts that gained attention amid controversial city camping ordinances. "We really try not to worry about who should be cleaning this stuff up," says Letsche, emphasizing action over blame.

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🚓 Chillicothe police tackle 22 incidents in action-packed Monday. The department's daily report detailed a diverse range of calls including warrant arrests, overdoses, thefts, and disturbances throughout June 23, 2025. Notable incidents included a firearm theft investigation, multiple warrant arrests including Ashley Spangler on assault charges, and a resolved juvenile theft at Speedway. Officers also responded to an unresponsive person call, a potential suicide attempt, and various trespass complaints, demonstrating the department's comprehensive response to community safety concerns.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Fixer-upper with natural oasis: This 6.4-acre country paradise can be yours for $139,900. The beautiful land features wildlife, a stone-layered stream, and a spacious house that needs major repairs, offering multiple possibilities for the right investor.
Real estate listing image Country ranch spacious wooded acres: A ranch-style country oasis asks $185,000, offering 3 bedrooms and 2 baths across 1,430 square feet of updated living space on 3 wooded acres, complete with cathedral ceilings and a spacious owner's suite.
Real estate listing image Rustic retreat needs TLC: This Pike County fixer-upper on 1.75 acres is priced at $89,000, offering a gutted 3-bed home with garage, creek access, existing utilities, and proximity to outdoor recreational areas.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🤝 Jun. 26 - LPC Networking Mixer: Connect with fellow counseling professionals at the Southeast Ohio LPC Networking Event! Join the conversation at Lake White Club Bar&Grill in Waverly on June 26, 2025 for meaningful connections and industry insights.
🧓 Jun. 26 - Mid-Lifers Meetup: Connect with fellow mid-lifers at the vibrant Mid-Lifers Group gathering on June 26 at 535 E 2nd St in Waverly. Share experiences, build friendships, and enjoy community in a welcoming environment.
🙏 Jun. 28 - Pastor Anthony Marquize Visit: Join Pastor Anthony Marquize, the "Pastor's Pastor," for an inspiring weekend of worship at 13806 OH-220 in Piketon! Services Saturday, June 28 at 6PM and Sunday, June 29 at 10AM.
⛳ Jun. 28 - 2 Person Golf Scramble: Grab your clubs for the 2 Person Scramble at Hillsboro Elks 361! Tee off June 28 at 451 Danville Pike. Text Jim at (937) 217-6039 to secure your spot on the green.
🥞 Jun. 28 - First Capital Aviators Breakfast: Fuel up at EAA Chapter 1625's Pancake Breakfast at Pike County Airport on June 28! Enjoy delicious pancakes and aviation hospitality by donation at 2577 Alma Omega Rd in Waverly.

🙏 In Remembrance

Gary David Justice

Gary David Justice, 77, of Waverly, Ohio, passed away on June 23, 2025, at Adena Pike Medical Center. Born in Grundy, Virginia, in 1947, Gary was a retired truck driver who was predeceased by his wife Charlene in 2000. He is survived by his four children, nine grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and three siblings. No visitation will be held, with arrangements handled by Boyer Cremation Services.

Gary David Justice

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

-John 3:16

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