A Lakota East High School teacher was indicted on eight counts of sexual battery following an extensive criminal investigation. 42 year old Justin Daniel Dennis (pictured) allegedly had a sexual relationship with a female student during the 2021-2022 school year. Dennis was the girl's teacher and Hope Squad mental health advisor. Court records allege Dennis had sex with the girl at multiple locations, including his classroom, home, and the parking lot of her work. Dennis will appear in court Tuesday.

Photo Courtesy: Butler County Sheriff's Office

 

Accused Walmart shooter 35 year old Anthony Brown pleaded guilty to reduced charges in connection with the May 2022 robbery and shooting at the Fairfield Township Walmart store. Brown admitted to charges of murder with a gun specification and felonious assault. Police say Brown stole cellphones and was making his getaway when he shot and killed 35 year old Adam Black, and wounded store greeter 57 year old Eric Ruff. Black had tried to stop Brown from leaving the store. The original call went out for an active shooter, which brought police from every corner of the county. Common Pleas Judge Daniel Haughey will sentence Brown December 15th.

Butler County Commissioners had a wild week, starting off by passing a popular tax relief package, then the very next day holding a hearing on their very unpopular plan to take over the county's emergency management agency. On Monday September 22nd, the commissioners passed a package of two items meant to take the sting out of increasing property taxes, including a reduction of inside millage, and a tax break for those covered under the homestead exemption. The commissioner's move brought universal praise throughout the county. On Tuesday September 23rd, the commissioners held a hearing on plans to take over the Emergency Management Agency, which is very unpopular amongst Butler County firefighters and public safety officials. Local fire chiefs and union leaders testified that taking over the agency will endanger emergency response by putting important decisions in the hands of politicians instead of an independent  board of first responders. The commissioners will vote on the EMA takeover plan next Tuesday.