Released February 22, 2008

   During the evening hours of February 20, 2008 Deputy Paul Schismenos, of the Medina County Sheriff's Office Drug Interdiction Team, stopped a 1998 Cadillac on Interstate 71 for failing to signal a lane change and assured clear distance (tailgating). Deputy Schismenos observed evidence of marijuana being used inside the vehicle, so Deputy Dan Kohler was summoned to the site of the traffic stop to have his K-9 partner, Casey, sniff the exterior of the vehicle. Casey alerted Deputy Kohler that there were drugs inside the Cadillac. After a search of the vehicle, 40Lbs. of compressed marijuana was found inside two black trash bags that were located in the trunk. There was also marijuana inside the pockets of a coat found inside the vehicle and under the center armrest.
   The driver of the Cadillac provided Deputy Schismenos with a false name and personal information. He was booked into the Medina County Jail and charged with Possession of Marijuana, a 3rd degree Felony.
   After further investigation, the driver was identified as Nigel Shaw Simpson of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Simpson matched a booking photo provided by Columbus P.D. and had a matching tattoo of a marijuana leaf on his arm.

Released February 13, 2008

   In two separate incidents, the Medina County Sheriff's Office Drug Interdiction Team, which was formed approximately a year ago, is continuing its success into 2008.
   On February 08, 2008 in Westfield Township, Deputies Paul Schismenos and Daniel Kohler, along with K-9 Casey, seized 2 lbs. of marijuana with a street value of approximately $1400.00 from a vehicle traveling on Interstate 71.  The male driver was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and Tampering With Evidence, both felony offenses.
   On February 12, 2008 Drug Interdiction Team deputies stopped a vehicle on Interstate 71 north of Interstate 76.  As a result of the traffic stop and ensuing investigation, $18,163.00 in cash was seized.  The cash is believed to be the proceeds from drug transactions.  No arrests have been made at this time.  The investigation into this matter continues.

Released August 08, 2007

Two bank robberies have occurred in Medina County in the past two months. On June 11, 2007 the National City Bank in Valley City, Ohio was robbed. On August 08, 2007 the First Merit Bank in the Village of Lodi, Ohio was also robbed. It is believed the same suspect is responsible for both robberies.

The suspect is described as being a white male with a thin build, 5'5"-5'7" tall, 50-60 years old, with an indented or pitted face.
Below are photos of the suspect.

If you have any information or questions, please contact Detective Kevin Ross at (330)725-9116.