By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
A mother wanted to dispel rumors that the worst had happened to her 6-year-old son.
Instead, a Lockley Kindergarten Center student is looking toward a full recovery after being struck by a car Friday morning.
The family has requested anonymity but confirmed the child’s first name is Anthony.
“We thought the worst at the beginning,” his mother said. “He will recover. That’s my main concern.”
The child and his father were waiting for the school bus along with Anthony’s classmate and the classmate’s grandmother outside the Keystone Specialty Co., 1029 S. Mill St. Police said city resident Samuel Abraham III lost control of his Pontiac Bonneville when the accident occurred around 10:50 a.m.
Abraham’s car, which was traveling south, went into the northbound lane, over the curb and onto the sidewalk. The vehicle struck Anthony and the woman, who was reportedly not injured. Her name was not available.
Anthony is being treated at Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh. His injuries include a fracture near the left eye and a concussion.
“He sleeps for long periods of time, and (the doctors) said that’s normal with any severe head injury,” his mother said. “If I ask him a question, he’ll answer me.”
Doctors have not said when he will be released.
The family moved from New Jersey to the city in November. Family members from New Jersey and Michigan have traveled to Pittsburgh to be with the youth.
Poor weather conditions forced county school districts to delay the start of classes by two hours Friday.
Police Chief Thomas Sansone said Abraham was taken to Jameson Hospital for a blood test.
“He claims the roads were slippery,” Sansone said Friday. “He also told officers that he had come from a methadone clinic.”
City police are continuing their investigation.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Youth wanted to live with dad
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
A New Castle youth wanted to live with his father months before he was killed.
Tomislav “Tommy” Novosel’s family made the claim in a first-person obituary written on behalf of the 12-year-old.
Lawrence County Coroner Russell Noga said Saturday that Ljuba Novosel, 40, shot her son and mother Anka Denk, 81, each in the head while they slept in their upstairs bedrooms.
She then killed herself with a .38-caliber revolver. Her body was found at the bottom of the first-floor stairway. Noga said she had purchased the gun in 2009.
City police discovered the bodies Friday when they were called to 816 S. Mercer St. to check on the welfare of the family. Noga said he believes the deaths occurred between 11 p.m. and midnight Wednesday.
Pathologist Dr. James Smith, Noga and two city detectives conducted the autopsies Saturday morning at the Beaver Valley Medical Center. Noga ruled the deaths as a double homicide/suicide.
City police Chief Thomas Sansone said this morning that Novosel did not leave a suicide note.
“(My) family is all in Ellwood City, that’s why in October of 2010 I decided to move to Ellwood City,” the obituary said. “I told my dad that I packed my bags. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to finish that paper what you call a Petition.”
Ljuba Novosel had divorced Tomislav Novosel in 2000. The pair married in Zagreb, Croatia, on Sept. 24, 1994, according to Lawrence County court records.
“I had two homes, one in New Castle where I lived with my mom and one in Ellwood City where I lived with my dad,” according to the seventh-grader’s obituary. “Ever since I was little I loved being with my family in Ellwood City and enjoyed playing with my cousins.”
He attended New Castle Junior/Senior High School and belonged to Holy Redeemer Church in Ellwood City.
“He was very proud of being an altar server,” the Rev. Mark L. Thomas said this morning. “He took great joy in coming here.”
Thomas said he has known the youth and his father since 1999. The priest will conduct the Mass of Christian burial Thursday morning.
Ljuba Novosel and her family were somewhat of a mystery to their South Side neighbors.
“Some people recalled them and some don’t,” said the Rev. John Petrarulo of St. Vitus Church. “I really can’t put my finger on it.
“All I know is they were two doors down, and I never saw them.”
A few residents thought the family had lived on South Mercer Street a short time, while others’ memories of them go back at least three years.
Some neighbors were under the impression the Novosels had moved to Ellwood City.
Kira Walthall said she last saw the family during the summer.
“They were a very quiet family,” she said. “They stayed to themselves.”
Ljuba Novosel, who became an American citizen in 1998, was a registered nurse. According to the Pennsylvania Department of State website, she renewed her license in October.
She graduated from Slippery Rock University’s nursing program in 2005, a university spokesman said this morning.
“We never know what a person’s problems are, what difficulties they’re living in,” Petrarulo said of the deaths. “As far as the community is involved, they’re shocked, especially when a young person is involved.”
City police are continuing their investigation. The gun will be sent for testing, Sansone said. He said officers recovered three shells from the five-chamber revolver at the scene. The two remaining bullets were still in the gun’s chamber.
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
A New Castle youth wanted to live with his father months before he was killed.
Tomislav “Tommy” Novosel’s family made the claim in a first-person obituary written on behalf of the 12-year-old.
Lawrence County Coroner Russell Noga said Saturday that Ljuba Novosel, 40, shot her son and mother Anka Denk, 81, each in the head while they slept in their upstairs bedrooms.
She then killed herself with a .38-caliber revolver. Her body was found at the bottom of the first-floor stairway. Noga said she had purchased the gun in 2009.
City police discovered the bodies Friday when they were called to 816 S. Mercer St. to check on the welfare of the family. Noga said he believes the deaths occurred between 11 p.m. and midnight Wednesday.
Pathologist Dr. James Smith, Noga and two city detectives conducted the autopsies Saturday morning at the Beaver Valley Medical Center. Noga ruled the deaths as a double homicide/suicide.
City police Chief Thomas Sansone said this morning that Novosel did not leave a suicide note.
“(My) family is all in Ellwood City, that’s why in October of 2010 I decided to move to Ellwood City,” the obituary said. “I told my dad that I packed my bags. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to finish that paper what you call a Petition.”
Ljuba Novosel had divorced Tomislav Novosel in 2000. The pair married in Zagreb, Croatia, on Sept. 24, 1994, according to Lawrence County court records.
“I had two homes, one in New Castle where I lived with my mom and one in Ellwood City where I lived with my dad,” according to the seventh-grader’s obituary. “Ever since I was little I loved being with my family in Ellwood City and enjoyed playing with my cousins.”
He attended New Castle Junior/Senior High School and belonged to Holy Redeemer Church in Ellwood City.
“He was very proud of being an altar server,” the Rev. Mark L. Thomas said this morning. “He took great joy in coming here.”
Thomas said he has known the youth and his father since 1999. The priest will conduct the Mass of Christian burial Thursday morning.
Ljuba Novosel and her family were somewhat of a mystery to their South Side neighbors.
“Some people recalled them and some don’t,” said the Rev. John Petrarulo of St. Vitus Church. “I really can’t put my finger on it.
“All I know is they were two doors down, and I never saw them.”
A few residents thought the family had lived on South Mercer Street a short time, while others’ memories of them go back at least three years.
Some neighbors were under the impression the Novosels had moved to Ellwood City.
Kira Walthall said she last saw the family during the summer.
“They were a very quiet family,” she said. “They stayed to themselves.”
Ljuba Novosel, who became an American citizen in 1998, was a registered nurse. According to the Pennsylvania Department of State website, she renewed her license in October.
She graduated from Slippery Rock University’s nursing program in 2005, a university spokesman said this morning.
“We never know what a person’s problems are, what difficulties they’re living in,” Petrarulo said of the deaths. “As far as the community is involved, they’re shocked, especially when a young person is involved.”
City police are continuing their investigation. The gun will be sent for testing, Sansone said. He said officers recovered three shells from the five-chamber revolver at the scene. The two remaining bullets were still in the gun’s chamber.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Board approves offer for land
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
The New Castle Area School District will learn if it is working with a motivated seller.
In a special session yesterday afternoon, the school board authorized the district to offer $90,000 for approximately 20 acres owned by Solid Rock Ministry of New Castle Inc. The vacant property, which borders North Scott Street, will be used as part of the $19 million renovation of the Lockley Kindergarten Center. The new facility, the H.W. Lockley Early Learning Center, will house students in kindergarten through second grade.
James Manolis, attorney for Solid Rock Ministry, said last night he wanted to review the offer and discuss it with his client before commenting.
As part of the renovation project, the Pennsylvania Department of Education required appraisals from two independent firms. Richard G. English & Associates of Sharon said the site was worth $80,000. Infinity Valuations & Appraisals of Fombell pegged the value at $90,000.
Business manager Joseph Ambrosini said the district must offer the higher of the two amounts to the property owner. The state will give the district $58,500, which is 65 percent of the $90,000 offer. If the sides agree to a higher amount, Ambrosini said there would be no additional reimbursement.
Solid Rock Ministry purchased the land for $35,000 in January 1997. Applying the U.S. Consumer Price Index, the transaction would equate to $47,500 in 2010.
Last year, the county assessed the property at $21,400. The ministry’s city, county and school taxes amounted to approximately $1,100.
Promises for Pets, an animal advocate organization, offered $125,000 to Solid Rock Ministry in May 2009. The group wanted to build a no-kill shelter on the site but rescinded its agreement after learning of the possible Lockley expansion.
Under the direction of former board President Donna Donati, a community-based group was formed in 2008 to review New Castle’s facility needs.
Voting for the measure were J. Allan Joseph, Karen Humphrey, Fred Mozzocio, Brad Olson Jr., Anna Pascarella and Mary Ann Tofel. Humphrey participated in the meeting by phone. Members Mark Kirkwood, Barbara Razzano and Dr. Marilyn K. Berkely were absent.
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
The New Castle Area School District will learn if it is working with a motivated seller.
In a special session yesterday afternoon, the school board authorized the district to offer $90,000 for approximately 20 acres owned by Solid Rock Ministry of New Castle Inc. The vacant property, which borders North Scott Street, will be used as part of the $19 million renovation of the Lockley Kindergarten Center. The new facility, the H.W. Lockley Early Learning Center, will house students in kindergarten through second grade.
James Manolis, attorney for Solid Rock Ministry, said last night he wanted to review the offer and discuss it with his client before commenting.
As part of the renovation project, the Pennsylvania Department of Education required appraisals from two independent firms. Richard G. English & Associates of Sharon said the site was worth $80,000. Infinity Valuations & Appraisals of Fombell pegged the value at $90,000.
Business manager Joseph Ambrosini said the district must offer the higher of the two amounts to the property owner. The state will give the district $58,500, which is 65 percent of the $90,000 offer. If the sides agree to a higher amount, Ambrosini said there would be no additional reimbursement.
Solid Rock Ministry purchased the land for $35,000 in January 1997. Applying the U.S. Consumer Price Index, the transaction would equate to $47,500 in 2010.
Last year, the county assessed the property at $21,400. The ministry’s city, county and school taxes amounted to approximately $1,100.
Promises for Pets, an animal advocate organization, offered $125,000 to Solid Rock Ministry in May 2009. The group wanted to build a no-kill shelter on the site but rescinded its agreement after learning of the possible Lockley expansion.
Under the direction of former board President Donna Donati, a community-based group was formed in 2008 to review New Castle’s facility needs.
Voting for the measure were J. Allan Joseph, Karen Humphrey, Fred Mozzocio, Brad Olson Jr., Anna Pascarella and Mary Ann Tofel. Humphrey participated in the meeting by phone. Members Mark Kirkwood, Barbara Razzano and Dr. Marilyn K. Berkely were absent.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Deadly year
Jan. 1, 2011
(As 2010 draws to a close, The News is counting down the Top 10 local stories of the year. Today: No. 1)
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
With six possible homicides occurring in New Castle during the past year, the city tops an undesirable list.
A survey of 14 communities similar in size finds New Castle ranks first with McKeesport in number of murders.
“I remember working a lot of homicides, but I don’t remember that kind of a number,” said police Chief Thomas Sansone, a veteran of 25 years.
The number of deaths investigated by Sansone’s department is an unusual amount for a city of approximately 24,500.
Prior to 2010, the highest number of murders in the city occurred in 2005 when four were reported.
One ongoing investigation here involves a 71-year-old man who died in a wooded area.
“We don’t know if we can call it a (hunting) accident or not,” said Sansone.
“There really is no rhyme or reason as to whether you have an increase or decrease in murders in a given year,” Sansone said.
THE CASES
Following is the list of victims.
•Kaelin Davis, 11 months old, of Halco Drive died on May 31. The cause of death was ruled blunt force trauma to the head.
Facing five charges, including criminal homicide, the 23-year-old William Henry Hess Jr. is being held without bail in the Lawrence County jail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 12.
•Frank James Breitenstein, 45, of Volant died the evening of Aug. 28 near 314 Bell Ave. Breitenstein was shot with a BB gun after he confronted a male youth shooting at houses.
A BB was removed from Breitenstein’s lung during his autopsy. No one has been charged in the death, but police have identified two potential suspects.
•Melvin Harper, 26, of New Castle died as the results of gunshot wounds. His death occurred between 2 and 3 a.m. Sept. 17 in the parking lot of Wise Guyz, 1115 N. Croton Ave.
Davven Eric Malloy, 20, of Pittsburgh, was wanted in connection with Harper’s death. He committed suicide around midnight Nov. 22 at a Westover, W.Va., motel.
•Edward Wooten, 39, of Parkwood Court was killed as the result of a single gunshot to the abdomen. The incident took place around 2:25 a.m. Nov. 21 in the parking lot of the Players Lounge, a South Mill Street bar. Wooten died at Jameson Hospital.
Michael L. Williams, 34, was arrested Dec. 10. Williams, who lists addresses on South Liberty Street and in Sharpsville, is in county jail on eight charges that include criminal homicide and aggravated assault. Williams’ court hearing is slated for 1 p.m. Jan. 27.
•Trevaughn Lamont Thompson, 19, of Westview Terrace was killed following a volley of gunfire around 11:30 a.m. Nov. 30, 2010, while driving along Halco Drive. He was pronounced dead almost nine hours later at Youngstown’s St. Elizabeth Health Center.
City police charged Tavin Lamar Wise, 19, of Halco Drive with 26 offenses that include criminal homicide and aggravated assault. He is being held without bail in the county jail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 6.
•Leroy W. Blashak Jr., 71, of 310 Montgomery Ave. died Nov. 29. His body was found in a Mahoningtown field. Police said a bullet entered Blashak’s right shoulder.
Authorities are working with the Pennsylvania Game Commission to determine if the shooting involved a hunter and if it was intentional.
THE POLICE
No connection is apparent among the deaths. In the killings of Harper, Thompson and Wooten, Sansone said that a common group of family, friends and acquaintances existed among the three. However, that played no role in their murders.
“It’s just a coincidence,” he said.
Nor is an influx of weapons to blame.
“I think they’ve always been available. The people that do have them aren’t thinking. They’re just pulling them out and using them.”
A state study conducted as part of the city’s financial recovery plan backs Sansone’s view that the department is understaffed. Last year, New Castle had 35 full-time and three part-time officers. Ten more are needed.
“Naturally, we can’t afford it,” he said. “However, that shows our officers are doing a good job with the manpower they have.”
Sansone also countered a perception that New Castle is a place where people can get away with murder. Excluding the Blashak investigation, charges have been filed in all but three cases dating back to 2005.
“We do have suspects, but we just need enough information to file the charge and that’s where we’re stuck. I think our clearance rate for what we’re dealing with is pretty good.”
Sansone said his officers will continue to patrol high crime areas in an effort to keep those sections under control.
“Are you going to prevent it? Not necessarily,” Sansone said. “It takes about 10 seconds to murder someone.”
COMPARISON
Homicides by city
Following are the number of homicides committed in Pennsylvania communities of similar size to New Castle, which had an approximate population of 24,500 in 2009. The totals are from Jan. 1, 2010, through Dec. 28, 2010.
•McKeesport 6
•New Castle 6*
•Lebanon 4
•Easton 1
•Horsham Township (Montgomery County) 1
•Susquehanna Township (Dauphin County) 1
•Johnstown 0
•Marple Township (Delaware County)
•Montgomery Township (Montgomery County) 0
•Springettsbury Township (York County) 0
•Spring Township (Berks County) 0
•Tredyffrin Township (Chester County) 0
•Upper Dublin Township (Montgomery County) 0
•Upper Moreland Township (Montgomery County) 0
*(Includes one death that is under investigation as a possible hunting accident)
Pittsburgh reported 57 murders in 2010. The city, with approximately 312,000 residents, is an hour south of New Castle.
Twenty killings occurred in Youngstown during 2010. Located 20 minutes northeast of New Castle, Youngstown has a population of approximately 72,000.
(Sources: Right-to-know requests filed with the above police departments, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, the Youngstown Police Department and New Castle News archives.)
THROUGH THE YEARS
New Castle killings
•2000 – 2
•2001 – 2
•2002 – 2
•2003 – 2
•2004 – 3
•2005 – 4
•2006 – 3
•2007 – 1
•2008 – 2
•2009 – 2
•2010 – 6*
*(includes one death that is under investigation as a possible hunting accident.)
(Sources: New Castle police department and the Pennsylvania Uniform Crime Reporting System)
(As 2010 draws to a close, The News is counting down the Top 10 local stories of the year. Today: No. 1)
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
With six possible homicides occurring in New Castle during the past year, the city tops an undesirable list.
A survey of 14 communities similar in size finds New Castle ranks first with McKeesport in number of murders.
“I remember working a lot of homicides, but I don’t remember that kind of a number,” said police Chief Thomas Sansone, a veteran of 25 years.
The number of deaths investigated by Sansone’s department is an unusual amount for a city of approximately 24,500.
Prior to 2010, the highest number of murders in the city occurred in 2005 when four were reported.
One ongoing investigation here involves a 71-year-old man who died in a wooded area.
“We don’t know if we can call it a (hunting) accident or not,” said Sansone.
“There really is no rhyme or reason as to whether you have an increase or decrease in murders in a given year,” Sansone said.
THE CASES
Following is the list of victims.
•Kaelin Davis, 11 months old, of Halco Drive died on May 31. The cause of death was ruled blunt force trauma to the head.
Facing five charges, including criminal homicide, the 23-year-old William Henry Hess Jr. is being held without bail in the Lawrence County jail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 12.
•Frank James Breitenstein, 45, of Volant died the evening of Aug. 28 near 314 Bell Ave. Breitenstein was shot with a BB gun after he confronted a male youth shooting at houses.
A BB was removed from Breitenstein’s lung during his autopsy. No one has been charged in the death, but police have identified two potential suspects.
•Melvin Harper, 26, of New Castle died as the results of gunshot wounds. His death occurred between 2 and 3 a.m. Sept. 17 in the parking lot of Wise Guyz, 1115 N. Croton Ave.
Davven Eric Malloy, 20, of Pittsburgh, was wanted in connection with Harper’s death. He committed suicide around midnight Nov. 22 at a Westover, W.Va., motel.
•Edward Wooten, 39, of Parkwood Court was killed as the result of a single gunshot to the abdomen. The incident took place around 2:25 a.m. Nov. 21 in the parking lot of the Players Lounge, a South Mill Street bar. Wooten died at Jameson Hospital.
Michael L. Williams, 34, was arrested Dec. 10. Williams, who lists addresses on South Liberty Street and in Sharpsville, is in county jail on eight charges that include criminal homicide and aggravated assault. Williams’ court hearing is slated for 1 p.m. Jan. 27.
•Trevaughn Lamont Thompson, 19, of Westview Terrace was killed following a volley of gunfire around 11:30 a.m. Nov. 30, 2010, while driving along Halco Drive. He was pronounced dead almost nine hours later at Youngstown’s St. Elizabeth Health Center.
City police charged Tavin Lamar Wise, 19, of Halco Drive with 26 offenses that include criminal homicide and aggravated assault. He is being held without bail in the county jail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 6.
•Leroy W. Blashak Jr., 71, of 310 Montgomery Ave. died Nov. 29. His body was found in a Mahoningtown field. Police said a bullet entered Blashak’s right shoulder.
Authorities are working with the Pennsylvania Game Commission to determine if the shooting involved a hunter and if it was intentional.
THE POLICE
No connection is apparent among the deaths. In the killings of Harper, Thompson and Wooten, Sansone said that a common group of family, friends and acquaintances existed among the three. However, that played no role in their murders.
“It’s just a coincidence,” he said.
Nor is an influx of weapons to blame.
“I think they’ve always been available. The people that do have them aren’t thinking. They’re just pulling them out and using them.”
A state study conducted as part of the city’s financial recovery plan backs Sansone’s view that the department is understaffed. Last year, New Castle had 35 full-time and three part-time officers. Ten more are needed.
“Naturally, we can’t afford it,” he said. “However, that shows our officers are doing a good job with the manpower they have.”
Sansone also countered a perception that New Castle is a place where people can get away with murder. Excluding the Blashak investigation, charges have been filed in all but three cases dating back to 2005.
“We do have suspects, but we just need enough information to file the charge and that’s where we’re stuck. I think our clearance rate for what we’re dealing with is pretty good.”
Sansone said his officers will continue to patrol high crime areas in an effort to keep those sections under control.
“Are you going to prevent it? Not necessarily,” Sansone said. “It takes about 10 seconds to murder someone.”
COMPARISON
Homicides by city
Following are the number of homicides committed in Pennsylvania communities of similar size to New Castle, which had an approximate population of 24,500 in 2009. The totals are from Jan. 1, 2010, through Dec. 28, 2010.
•McKeesport 6
•New Castle 6*
•Lebanon 4
•Easton 1
•Horsham Township (Montgomery County) 1
•Susquehanna Township (Dauphin County) 1
•Johnstown 0
•Marple Township (Delaware County)
•Montgomery Township (Montgomery County) 0
•Springettsbury Township (York County) 0
•Spring Township (Berks County) 0
•Tredyffrin Township (Chester County) 0
•Upper Dublin Township (Montgomery County) 0
•Upper Moreland Township (Montgomery County) 0
*(Includes one death that is under investigation as a possible hunting accident)
Pittsburgh reported 57 murders in 2010. The city, with approximately 312,000 residents, is an hour south of New Castle.
Twenty killings occurred in Youngstown during 2010. Located 20 minutes northeast of New Castle, Youngstown has a population of approximately 72,000.
(Sources: Right-to-know requests filed with the above police departments, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, the Youngstown Police Department and New Castle News archives.)
THROUGH THE YEARS
New Castle killings
•2000 – 2
•2001 – 2
•2002 – 2
•2003 – 2
•2004 – 3
•2005 – 4
•2006 – 3
•2007 – 1
•2008 – 2
•2009 – 2
•2010 – 6*
*(includes one death that is under investigation as a possible hunting accident.)
(Sources: New Castle police department and the Pennsylvania Uniform Crime Reporting System)
DeRosa plea caps federal probe
Dec. 31, 2010
(As 2010 draws to a close, The News is counting down the Top 10 local stories of the year. Today: No. 2)
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
Who’s Nick DeRosa? What’s he like?
During its federal grand jury investigation into mortgage fraud, the U.S. Attorney’s Office questioned Deno DeLorenzo about the finances of Affordable Housing of Lawrence County. A few grand jury participants wanted to know about the retired New Castle school administrator.
“I was there for a good hour of questioning,” DeLorenzo said of his April 2008 testimony. “The only question (the jury) asked was about the character of Nick DeRosa.”
DeLorenzo served as board president in the final months of the nonprofit housing agency’s existence. While executive director of the Lawrence County housing authority, Robert Evanick helped found Affordable Housing in 2003.
He left the group in December 2005 after the board signed a $250,000 mortgage agreement with First Commonwealth Bank for the purchase of seven structures.
The agency defaulted on the loan in March 2006. DeRosa owned or co-owned four of the seven properties.
A certified public accountant, DeLorenzo provided the government with the documentation and insight that led to charges being filed against DeRosa and four other parties.
DeRosa pleaded guilty Oct. 28 to single felony counts of bank fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. His sentencing is scheduled for March 1.
IMAGE
The unfolding of the Affordable Housing scandal magnified the differences between DeRosa’s public image and private life.
He was elected to city council, served two terms on the Slippery Rock University Council of Trustees and sat on the Lawrence County Planning Commission board.
DeRosa’s community service included work with the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society and Easter Seals. He also was former president of the National Association of Wolves, an Italian service organization.
However, DeRosa is best known for his association with the New Castle Area School District. A 1963 Ne-Ca-Hi graduate, he was hired as an elementary teacher. DeRosa was promoted to principal and became assistant superintendent in 1989.
Although never naming him, a 2003 state Auditor General’s report detailed problems involving the educator. The findings outlined gambling activities that permitted DeRosa to receive free hotel rooms for three school board members attending a conference in 2002; a failure to disclose financial interests; the purchase of boxed lunches from the district for a business DeRosa owned; and his conduct regarding travel while representing the school system.
The audit led the school board to hire attorney Richard A. Harper in March 2004 to conduct an independent review.
“The Harper Report focuses on one thing and one thing only — the assistant superintendent (Nicholas DeRosa),” district solicitor Charles Sapienza said in a June 24, 2006, interview.
TARGET
Likewise, federal investigators made him the target of its mortgage fraud probe.
DeRosa originally pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prior to the change, defense attorney Efrem Grail filed objections to portions of the government’s evidence.
One of the complaints dealt with DeRosa’s role as a landlord.
Government investigators talked to former tenants, one of which referred to him as a “slumlord.” New Castle code enforcement had condemned a Wallace Avenue property that DeRosa co-owned five days after Castle Realty inspected it for an appraisal. Rats were reportedly living in the properties, and truckloads of trash were removed.
Federal prosecutors also were prepared to tie DeRosa to the theft of quarters from housing authority laundry machines, kickbacks involving a housing authority grass-cutting contract and money he and former county treasurer Gary Felasco reportedly collected from a bingo hall operator.
In court paperwork, Grail called the evidence improper and said that it tainted “Mr. DeRosa’s character in the eyes of the jury, to show he has a propensity to do wrong, to paint him as a bad person.”
DeRosa faces three to four years in prison, probation, restitution, forfeiture of assets and fines. He remains free on $10,000 unsecured bond.
(As 2010 draws to a close, The News is counting down the Top 10 local stories of the year. Today: No. 2)
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
Who’s Nick DeRosa? What’s he like?
During its federal grand jury investigation into mortgage fraud, the U.S. Attorney’s Office questioned Deno DeLorenzo about the finances of Affordable Housing of Lawrence County. A few grand jury participants wanted to know about the retired New Castle school administrator.
“I was there for a good hour of questioning,” DeLorenzo said of his April 2008 testimony. “The only question (the jury) asked was about the character of Nick DeRosa.”
DeLorenzo served as board president in the final months of the nonprofit housing agency’s existence. While executive director of the Lawrence County housing authority, Robert Evanick helped found Affordable Housing in 2003.
He left the group in December 2005 after the board signed a $250,000 mortgage agreement with First Commonwealth Bank for the purchase of seven structures.
The agency defaulted on the loan in March 2006. DeRosa owned or co-owned four of the seven properties.
A certified public accountant, DeLorenzo provided the government with the documentation and insight that led to charges being filed against DeRosa and four other parties.
DeRosa pleaded guilty Oct. 28 to single felony counts of bank fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. His sentencing is scheduled for March 1.
IMAGE
The unfolding of the Affordable Housing scandal magnified the differences between DeRosa’s public image and private life.
He was elected to city council, served two terms on the Slippery Rock University Council of Trustees and sat on the Lawrence County Planning Commission board.
DeRosa’s community service included work with the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society and Easter Seals. He also was former president of the National Association of Wolves, an Italian service organization.
However, DeRosa is best known for his association with the New Castle Area School District. A 1963 Ne-Ca-Hi graduate, he was hired as an elementary teacher. DeRosa was promoted to principal and became assistant superintendent in 1989.
Although never naming him, a 2003 state Auditor General’s report detailed problems involving the educator. The findings outlined gambling activities that permitted DeRosa to receive free hotel rooms for three school board members attending a conference in 2002; a failure to disclose financial interests; the purchase of boxed lunches from the district for a business DeRosa owned; and his conduct regarding travel while representing the school system.
The audit led the school board to hire attorney Richard A. Harper in March 2004 to conduct an independent review.
“The Harper Report focuses on one thing and one thing only — the assistant superintendent (Nicholas DeRosa),” district solicitor Charles Sapienza said in a June 24, 2006, interview.
TARGET
Likewise, federal investigators made him the target of its mortgage fraud probe.
DeRosa originally pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prior to the change, defense attorney Efrem Grail filed objections to portions of the government’s evidence.
One of the complaints dealt with DeRosa’s role as a landlord.
Government investigators talked to former tenants, one of which referred to him as a “slumlord.” New Castle code enforcement had condemned a Wallace Avenue property that DeRosa co-owned five days after Castle Realty inspected it for an appraisal. Rats were reportedly living in the properties, and truckloads of trash were removed.
Federal prosecutors also were prepared to tie DeRosa to the theft of quarters from housing authority laundry machines, kickbacks involving a housing authority grass-cutting contract and money he and former county treasurer Gary Felasco reportedly collected from a bingo hall operator.
In court paperwork, Grail called the evidence improper and said that it tainted “Mr. DeRosa’s character in the eyes of the jury, to show he has a propensity to do wrong, to paint him as a bad person.”
DeRosa faces three to four years in prison, probation, restitution, forfeiture of assets and fines. He remains free on $10,000 unsecured bond.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Ruling spares Ratkovich jail time
Dec. 15, 2010
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
PITTSBURGH — Bernadette Ratkovich arose from a nearby seat and moved a couple of steps toward her husband.
Minutes before Robert Ratkovich’s sentencing was to start in downtown federal court, she placed an arm across her husband’s back and kissed him on the cheek. The moment offered a brief diversion yesterday afternoon from the stress of a mortgage fraud investigation.
Saying he weighed the nature of the crime against the nature of the person, U.S. District Judge Gustave Diamond rejected federal guidelines when he sentenced Ratkovich on one count of bank and mail fraud conspiracy and one count of conspiracy to launder money.
A commitment to family and federal investigators kept the New Castle resident from a prison sentence of 33 to 41 months.
Instead, the former city councilman received five years probation for each count, which will be served at the same time. He also was placed under house arrest for eight months and ordered to repay $338,800.
Ratkovich pleaded guilty to the charges on July 28, 2009.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said that he and retired city school administrator Nicholas DeRosa conspired to defraud First Commonwealth Bank. Affordable Housing of Lawrence County, a nonprofit housing agency, obtained a $250,000 mortgage in December 2005 for the purchase of seven properties in which the values had been inflated.
Ratkovich was a consultant for the group, which was created by and funded with $200,000 from the Lawrence County Housing Authority in 2003. He was paid approximately $60,000. DeRosa owned or co-owned four of the seven structures.
“I think this man has learned his lesson and accepted responsibility,” attorney John T. Haller Jr. told the judge.
Haller asked Diamond to consider several factors, such as Ratkovich’s dedication to family, his remorse, assisting government investigators and how he turned around his life.
Ratkovich apologized to his family and the residents of New Castle prior to sentencing.
“I have let people down,” he said. “I helped the government because I did something wrong and that is not who I am.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan T. Conway said the government was impressed with the information Ratkovich presented and his willingness to aid investigators.
“It was a key moment in the case when he pleaded guilty and helped the government,” he said.
DeRosa had become the government’s main target.
He admitted to single felony counts of bank fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering on Oct. 28. DeRosa is scheduled to be sentenced March 1.
Conway also backed Haller’s depiction of his client.
“He is definitely a family man,” he said. “He went out and got jobs and continued to work while awaiting sentencing.”
While acknowledging the seriousness of the offenses, Diamond and Conway each discussed the merits of sending Ratkovich to prison.
Based on his contributions, taxpayers should not have to pay for his incarceration, Conway said. Diamond agreed with that view.
The $338,800 in restitution will be split between First Commonwealth Bank ($218,800) and the housing authority ($120,000). He must pay 10 percent of his gross monthly income toward that amount.
During home detention, Ratkovich will be allowed to leave for work, church services, doctor appointments and activities involving his children.
“I believe the defendant in this case won’t commit offenses in the future,” the judge said as the 20-minute session ended.
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
PITTSBURGH — Bernadette Ratkovich arose from a nearby seat and moved a couple of steps toward her husband.
Minutes before Robert Ratkovich’s sentencing was to start in downtown federal court, she placed an arm across her husband’s back and kissed him on the cheek. The moment offered a brief diversion yesterday afternoon from the stress of a mortgage fraud investigation.
Saying he weighed the nature of the crime against the nature of the person, U.S. District Judge Gustave Diamond rejected federal guidelines when he sentenced Ratkovich on one count of bank and mail fraud conspiracy and one count of conspiracy to launder money.
A commitment to family and federal investigators kept the New Castle resident from a prison sentence of 33 to 41 months.
Instead, the former city councilman received five years probation for each count, which will be served at the same time. He also was placed under house arrest for eight months and ordered to repay $338,800.
Ratkovich pleaded guilty to the charges on July 28, 2009.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said that he and retired city school administrator Nicholas DeRosa conspired to defraud First Commonwealth Bank. Affordable Housing of Lawrence County, a nonprofit housing agency, obtained a $250,000 mortgage in December 2005 for the purchase of seven properties in which the values had been inflated.
Ratkovich was a consultant for the group, which was created by and funded with $200,000 from the Lawrence County Housing Authority in 2003. He was paid approximately $60,000. DeRosa owned or co-owned four of the seven structures.
“I think this man has learned his lesson and accepted responsibility,” attorney John T. Haller Jr. told the judge.
Haller asked Diamond to consider several factors, such as Ratkovich’s dedication to family, his remorse, assisting government investigators and how he turned around his life.
Ratkovich apologized to his family and the residents of New Castle prior to sentencing.
“I have let people down,” he said. “I helped the government because I did something wrong and that is not who I am.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan T. Conway said the government was impressed with the information Ratkovich presented and his willingness to aid investigators.
“It was a key moment in the case when he pleaded guilty and helped the government,” he said.
DeRosa had become the government’s main target.
He admitted to single felony counts of bank fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering on Oct. 28. DeRosa is scheduled to be sentenced March 1.
Conway also backed Haller’s depiction of his client.
“He is definitely a family man,” he said. “He went out and got jobs and continued to work while awaiting sentencing.”
While acknowledging the seriousness of the offenses, Diamond and Conway each discussed the merits of sending Ratkovich to prison.
Based on his contributions, taxpayers should not have to pay for his incarceration, Conway said. Diamond agreed with that view.
The $338,800 in restitution will be split between First Commonwealth Bank ($218,800) and the housing authority ($120,000). He must pay 10 percent of his gross monthly income toward that amount.
During home detention, Ratkovich will be allowed to leave for work, church services, doctor appointments and activities involving his children.
“I believe the defendant in this case won’t commit offenses in the future,” the judge said as the 20-minute session ended.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Marching against violence
Dec. 10, 2010
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
A prayer for change launched a plan that resulted in a march.
Last night’s Stop the Violence prayer walk on Halco Drive was quiet and respectful as opposed to the violent, mid-morning death of Trevaughn Lamont Thompson on Nov. 30. Using the biblical tale of Jericho as their guide, religious leaders and community residents want the walls of violence to collapse throughout New Castle.
Like the Israelites in the Book of Joshua, seven marches will take place throughout the city.
“Our community and our youth have been hurting for quite some time now,” said Apryl Scrim, a member of St. Paul Baptist Church, located on North Street. “A change is not a recommendation but a must.
“There is an outcry that everybody is ready for a change. Enough is enough.”
After Thompson’s death, Scrim began her efforts with discussions on her Facebook page. That led to prayer vigils, which were held at St. Paul and St. John United Holy Church.
“One person had an idea to use a social network to call people into prayer, and it began to grow,” said Gary Mitchell, who also attends St. Paul.
Mitchell began organizing marches to coincide with the vigils. Last night’s dual event started at Bethel AME Church, 312 Green St. Participants headed past Grant Street through Halco Drive before returning to the church.
“We’ve come out of our comfort zone to take a stand against violence in all its forms, said Mitchell, who also oversees a community outreach and prison ministry called Rebuilding of Life.
“This is a place people call home. We come not to judge or ridicule, but we come to show support and offer some love.”
Approximately 100 people walked on or drove along Halco Drive, which is part of the Grant Street housing development. There was limited activity throughout the duplexes as the marchers moved ahead and past the site where Thompson was shot.
“The violence that we see today is not what it was when I first got here,” said the Rev. Jeannette Hubbard, who has served at Bethel AME Church for 16 years. “There was no violence at all.
“I’m always in a state of wonderment as to why things happen.”
Hubbard said last night’s event showed people united in faith and a common goal.
“Let the city of New Castle know we are working together to break all cycles of violence.”
Vincent Wise, associate minister at St. Paul, said spiritual healing broke his bond with drugs.
“I grew up in the streets,” he said. “I used to sell drugs and use drugs. I was a drug addict.
“It didn’t take rehab to get me off drugs. It was the power of prayer. God came in and cleaned me up.”
Like Hubbard, the Rev. Richard Rue ministers to Halco Drive residents at Union Baptist Church, located on West Grant Street.
“Being that it’s a small area, when anything happens it makes a big scene. There’s some great people there.”
The next prayer vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday at Prevailing Word World Outreach Ministries, 114 Oakland Ave. Mitchell is planning marches for housing developments at Westview Terrace and Sciota Street.
“If you hear a loud noise in New Castle, that’s the walls coming down,” Wise said.
By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com
A prayer for change launched a plan that resulted in a march.
Last night’s Stop the Violence prayer walk on Halco Drive was quiet and respectful as opposed to the violent, mid-morning death of Trevaughn Lamont Thompson on Nov. 30. Using the biblical tale of Jericho as their guide, religious leaders and community residents want the walls of violence to collapse throughout New Castle.
Like the Israelites in the Book of Joshua, seven marches will take place throughout the city.
“Our community and our youth have been hurting for quite some time now,” said Apryl Scrim, a member of St. Paul Baptist Church, located on North Street. “A change is not a recommendation but a must.
“There is an outcry that everybody is ready for a change. Enough is enough.”
After Thompson’s death, Scrim began her efforts with discussions on her Facebook page. That led to prayer vigils, which were held at St. Paul and St. John United Holy Church.
“One person had an idea to use a social network to call people into prayer, and it began to grow,” said Gary Mitchell, who also attends St. Paul.
Mitchell began organizing marches to coincide with the vigils. Last night’s dual event started at Bethel AME Church, 312 Green St. Participants headed past Grant Street through Halco Drive before returning to the church.
“We’ve come out of our comfort zone to take a stand against violence in all its forms, said Mitchell, who also oversees a community outreach and prison ministry called Rebuilding of Life.
“This is a place people call home. We come not to judge or ridicule, but we come to show support and offer some love.”
Approximately 100 people walked on or drove along Halco Drive, which is part of the Grant Street housing development. There was limited activity throughout the duplexes as the marchers moved ahead and past the site where Thompson was shot.
“The violence that we see today is not what it was when I first got here,” said the Rev. Jeannette Hubbard, who has served at Bethel AME Church for 16 years. “There was no violence at all.
“I’m always in a state of wonderment as to why things happen.”
Hubbard said last night’s event showed people united in faith and a common goal.
“Let the city of New Castle know we are working together to break all cycles of violence.”
Vincent Wise, associate minister at St. Paul, said spiritual healing broke his bond with drugs.
“I grew up in the streets,” he said. “I used to sell drugs and use drugs. I was a drug addict.
“It didn’t take rehab to get me off drugs. It was the power of prayer. God came in and cleaned me up.”
Like Hubbard, the Rev. Richard Rue ministers to Halco Drive residents at Union Baptist Church, located on West Grant Street.
“Being that it’s a small area, when anything happens it makes a big scene. There’s some great people there.”
The next prayer vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday at Prevailing Word World Outreach Ministries, 114 Oakland Ave. Mitchell is planning marches for housing developments at Westview Terrace and Sciota Street.
“If you hear a loud noise in New Castle, that’s the walls coming down,” Wise said.
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