Scioto County • September 2, 2025
Good morning, Scioto County. The gavel has been busy in our local courts this week, with Phillip Cazad receiving four years for cutting his ankle monitor and Jacqueline Chinn sentenced to two years in a fatal overdose case. While the justice system handles these serious matters, there's a decidedly more positive atmosphere in the commissioner's office, where newcomer Merit Smith has hit the ground running, bringing fresh energy and optimism about our county's economic future.
Meanwhile, the Fighting Tigers lived up to their fearsome reputation by crushing Virginia state champions Liberty Christian Academy 42-3, ending their impressive 28-game winning streak. The victory was particularly sweet as it came on the same night Ironton unveiled their 2024 State Championship banner before a packed stadium. Despite graduating eight defensive starters, the Tigers proved their championship pedigree remains firmly intact.
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βοΈ South Point man gets four years for cutting ankle monitor. Phillip Cazad was sentenced in Lawrence County after pleading guilty to tampering with evidence, vandalism, and breaking and entering. In a separate case, Jacqueline Chinn received two years in prison after pleading guilty to reckless homicide for providing drugs that caused a fatal overdose. Other court appearances included Brooke Smail, who was placed on probation for smuggling drugs into jail, and Ronald Gumbert, who received intervention instead of conviction for meth possession. Joseph Rollins pleaded not guilty to felonious assault and was released on bond with monitoring requirements.
ποΈ Merit Smith hits the ground running as new Scioto County Commissioner. The South Webster resident was appointed by the Republican Party to fill the seat left vacant by Cathy Coleman's death. Smith has immersed himself in the role, spending extensive time in the courthouse meeting with officials and attending various committee meetings to understand county operations. He initially prioritized transparency and economic development, but has since discovered more positive economic activity than he originally thought. Smith remains optimistic about Scioto County's future, noting that while progress may be slow, good developments are underway.
π Ironton crushes Virginia champs, ending their 28-game winning streak. The Fighting Tigers dominated Liberty Christian Academy 42-3 at their fourth annual Gridiron Classic, scoring 42 unanswered points after trailing 3-0 early. Kayden Edwards starred with two rushing touchdowns and two passing scores in the impressive victory. The win came on a special night when Ironton unveiled their 2024 State Championship banner before a packed home crowd at Tanks Memorial Stadium. Despite graduating eight defensive starters, Ironton's defense shut down the two-time defending Virginia state champions completely.
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-Psalm 55:22
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