Probation violation

Probation violation

YOUNGSTOWN — A 42-year-old Austintown man who owes $35,784 in child support for his two sons was sent to prison for seven months for violating his probation by driving under license suspension and by failing to report to his probation officer.

Judge John M. Durkin of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court imposed the prison time Monday on James F. McCarthy of Ohltown Road, who was on five years’ probation for nonsupport of dependents.

When McCarthy had earlier violated probation by testing positive for cocaine, Judge Durkin sent him to a residential drug treatment program, which he completed. McCarthy hasn’t paid any child support since January, when he admitted returning to cocaine use, said Edward DeAngelo, assistant county prosecutor.

30 laid off at company

SALEM — Thirty full-time workers at American Standard Brand were laid off Monday.

The layoffs were in response to low orders and the poor market, Tracy Benson Kirker, company spokeswoman, said Monday.

No further layoffs are planned at this time, but that could change if the economy does not pick up, she said.

The hourly layoffs affected members of United Auto Workers Local 1538.

Assault on police officer

YOUNGSTOWN — A man accused of punching a police officer who was processing paperwork for him is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in municipal court Thursday.

Marko D. Bills, 23, of Fairgreen Avenue, is accused of punching the officer in the face and jaw on the fifth floor of the police department, an area used for jail inmates who have court appearances, on April 24. The officer then struck Bills with his fist and baton.

Bills was placed in handcuffs and then taken for medical attention before being taken to the Mahoning County Jail. His bond on a charge of felonious assault on a police officer is $50,000.

Records show Bills was sentenced April 24 to 15 days in jail for misuse of 911 and 15 days for a probation violation. The days run consecutively, and he is due out May 24.

Police plan prom blitzes

YOUNGSTOWN — Prom traffic blitzes are planned in the city this Saturday and again on May 16.

Police will focus on streets near East High School on the East Side this Saturday when its prom is scheduled, looking for impaired drivers, speeders and safety belt violators.

The idea is to ensure the overall safety of prom-goers.

On May 16, officers will work the streets near Chaney High School on the West Side when its prom is scheduled.