Today’s funding announcement builds on the $54 million already committed to public charging stations across the Commonwealth through the NEVI program, demonstrating Pennsylvania’s continued success as a national leader in installing EV chargers to better connect our communities. Pennsylvania has already constructed 30 charging stations, leading the nation in stations built using NEVI funds. Additionally, there are 53 additional stations in various stages of planning and construction.

Since the first Pennsylvania NEVI station opened in December 2023, NEVI-funded charging stations in Pennsylvania have supported over 80,000 charging sessions, over 9.6 million estimated miles driven, and reduced CO2 emissions by more than 2,000 metric tons.

"These projects will expand access to electric vehicle charging from our alternative fuel connections and bridge the gap between long-distance travel and community based chargers," said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “This is a critical step to improving relatability and access to meet the needs of EV drivers in the Commonwealth.” 

Following is a list of awarded projects through the NEVI Corridor Connections program.

Berks County:

Bradford County:

Cambria County:

Lackawanna County:

Lancaster County:

Lehigh County:

Northampton County:

Perry County:

Tioga County:

To help demystify EVs and provide clear, fact-based information, PennDOT has launched a video series, EVs In Focus.The first video provides insight on EV battery fires, the data, and the safety systems in place to alleviate the risk of fire. Another video explores whether the electric grid can handle the increasing numbers of electric vehicles. A third video explores the real-world environmental impact of driving an EV, from vehicle production through disposal and end of use. More videos are in development on other EV topics.     

Additional NEVI Community Charging Funding applications are now open for the southeastern region. Applications will open on a rolling basis for other regions in Pennsylvania, beginning with the western region in the coming weeks. Local transportation planning agencies determine the specific locations/areas within the region that are prioritized for investment, but all publicly available locations within the region are eligible to apply.

While Community Charging funds are available, PennDOT has opened a survey for interested organizations to connect with electric vehicle charging station builders and operators to partner on submissions. To take the survey, or for more information on the Community Charging funding, please visit www.pa.gov/evcommunity.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is currently withholding Congressionally-apportioned funding that would have supported EV charging construction in Pennsylvania and created new, good-paying jobs. That is why Governor Josh Shapiro sued the Trump Administration once again for breaking the law and taking dollars out of the Commonwealth. The Governor also sued the Trump Administration alongside 15 other states over the summer and won, reinstating the NEVI program and ensuring projects like the one being announced today continue throughout Pennsylvania.  

Drivers can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,200 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts. 

Subscribe to local PennDOT news or statewide PennDOT news on the department’s website. 

Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

Joshua S. Hess, 26, waived his preliminary hearing before Judge Joseph Stauffer on Feb. 24 on a single count of cruelty to animals.

Hess is accused of repeatedly hitting the dog, a French bulldog named Winter, at his residence in the first block of Church Street in early January.

The dog’s owner told police Hess admitted to striking the canine on the head three times after it used the bathroom inside the home, rendering it unconscious. Hess refused to take the dog to a veterinarian at the owner’s request, she told police.

A Lancaster city veterinarian noted that the dog’s injuries included possible brain damage and bloodied eyes.

Neighbors safely removed a second dog belonging to the same owner from Hess’ home.

Hess is currently free on $15,000 unsecured bail.

Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Officer Jonathan Smith filed the charges. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Kindu Quaimaine Pollard, who has no fixed address, waived his preliminary hearing before Judge Jodie Richardson on Feb. 24 on one count each of aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children.

Pollard, 27, is accused of assaulting the victim in November 2025.

Officials at a local hospital contacted police after finding the victim with bruises on his face and legs as well as burst blood vessels in his eyes. One of the victim’s doctors later told police that the infant’s traumatic injuries were not accidental.

The victim’s mother told police the infant did not have the injuries before being in Pollard’s care between Nov. 11 and 13.

In an interview with police Pollard admitted that the victim had obtained some of the injuries while in his care.

Pollard remains in Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. Lancaster City Bureau of Police officer Micaela Heckman filed the charges.

Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Ponessa will prosecute the case.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget.

Department of Education

Gov. Josh Shapiro is proposing nearly $19.4 billion in funding for the Department of Education, an increase of $914 million, or nearly 5%, over the current year. The Department of Education is the second-highest spending agency in state government. The largest proposed increase for the department is for the Ready To Learn Block Grant program, which would rise by $565 million, a 40% increase.

Senator Martin on the benefits of universal FAFSA, the incredible success of Grow PA, concerns about paying for unfilled pre-K seats, whether the state will be able to recoup funds for vacant pre-K seats, how providers and being held accountable, cyber charter funding, and more

(Part 1)

(Part 2)

Senator Martin on addressing the decline in K-12 enrollment, refuting the talking point that PA ranks 49th in higher education, addressing the $10 million deficit for the School District of Lancaster, how to be better investors of taxpayer dollars in education, and more

Full Hearing

Video Highlights

Delays and inefficiencies of the State Board of Higher Education were highlighted.

The Shapiro administration was strongly encouraged to opt in to receive funding from the federal government to expand school choice options for students and families.

Ideas were discussed about how Pennsylvania can emulate strategies followed in other states that have improved student achievement.

Three hundred school districts are projected to receive 95% of the new funding under Gov. Shapiro’s education plan, while the remaining 200 school districts are only set to receive 5%. 

There was a discussion about how best to fund career and technical education programs that are seeing massive increases in enrollment.

Concerns were shared about the massive increases in school district reserves in recent years, even as property taxes continue to rise.

Ways to address Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage were discussed.

Concerns regarding transparency surrounding the Reading Leadership Council were shared. 

You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com.

Isaiah Jose Diaz, of the 200 block of Fourth Street, pleaded guilty before Judge Merrill Spahn on Feb. 12 to two counts of criminal conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, one count each of criminal conspiracy to discharge a firearm into an occupied structure, possession of a firearm, criminal conspiracy to possession of a firearm and criminal conspiracy to recklessly endanger another person and four counts of recklessly endangering another person.

Judge Spahn will sentence Diaz, 22, after the conclusion of a pre-sentence investigation.  

A co-defendant, 19-year-old J’Vian Mendez-Gonzalez, fired a gun into a residence in the 400 block of Avenue K in Columbia Borough the afternoon of Nov. 1, 2024, alondside Diaz and another conspirator, Caelan Natrell Brown. The three then hid the two guns used during the incident inside Diaz’s residence.

Three people, one of them a juvenile, were inside the residence at the time of the shooting but were not injured.

Eyewitnesses told police they had seen three masked men wearing dark clothing fleeing after the shots had been fired shortly before 1:30 p.m.

Minutes later, the same three suspects were seen running into a home in the 200 block of South Fourth Street.

Police arrested all three co-defendants when they secured the South Fourth Street residence, though they were no longer wearing dark clothing.

A witness from inside the South Fourth Street residence later told police the three men had changed their clothes and shoes and hid several handguns. Investigators recovered two guns from the kitchen ceiling and the discarded clothing hidden behind a couch after searching the home.

Diaz and Brown admitted to being present during the shooting, with Brown claiming he and Mendez-Gonzalez had been involved in a fight with two other men at a local business during which his phone was stolen. Brown told police he had tracked his phone’s location to the 400 block of Avenue K, after which Diaz gave him and Mendez-Gonzalez two guns and they all traveled to the residence together.

Both Brown and Mendez-Gonzalez have already pleaded guilty to offenses stemming from the same incident.

As part of his sentence, Diaz will also have to forfeit the firearms and ammunition police seized from his residence. Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Lapp prosecuted the case.

Columbia Borough Police Officer Brent Smith filed the charges.

 Governor’s Budget Office/Department of Revenue The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget. Senator Martin on Governor Shapiro’s tax proposals, the growth in tax refunds, improving the delivery of EITC funding, and more Senator Martin on making Pennsylvania more competitive, supporting school choice, the growth in spending proposed for the Department of Corrections, the consequences of the governor’s proposed spending increase, the potential for new broad-based taxes, concerns regarding the structural deficit, and more Full Hearing Video HighlightsQuestions were raised about the governor’s proposed elimination of several tax credits and changes to other existing tax credit programs. The Shapiro administration’s history of underestimating the future growth of expenditures was highlighted. The struggles of the Lottery Fund were detailed, as well as the future of programs that are vital to seniors. The future of funding for hazardous sites cleanup and well plugging was discussed. The dwindling amount of revenue coming into the General Fund from the LCB was questioned.  The impact of the governor’s proposed new taxes was discussed. Department of Labor and Industry/Department of Community and Economic Development Lawmakers also questioned representatives from the Department of Labor and Industry and the Department of Community and Economic Development on the status of Pennsylvania’s workforce development programs. Senator Martin on meeting the demands of the workforce, grappling with economic and demographic challenges, the tremendous success of Tec Centro, supporting the continued success of Grow PA, and more Full Hearing Video HighlightsThe importance of apprenticeship programs in training the future workforce was highlighted. How workforce development influences the state’s efforts to support and attract business growth was explored. Coordination between schools and businesses through the Schools-to-Work Grant Program was discussed. Ideas were discussed on how to expand capacity for nursing education programs.  An update was provided on efforts to support workforce development in the agriculture industry.   How the departments are working to ensure workers are properly trained and classified to aid in the deployment of broadband was discussed.  You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com.

Governor Josh Shapiro is committed to making Pennsylvania an economic development leader by investing in growing businesses, supporting manufacturing and other key industries, and creating real opportunities for Pennsylvanians. Since 2023 under the Shapiro Administration, PIDA has approved $161,400,538 in low-interest loans that have resulted in $412,782,567 in private investment, the creation of 1,349 full-time jobs, and retention of 2,394 existing jobs.

“The Shapiro Administration is supporting businesses across Pennsylvania by ensuring they have the resources they need to grow, compete, and succeed,” said Secretary Siger. “These new PIDA loans are strategic investments that will help drive business expansions, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen local supply chains in Bucks, Erie, and Lancaster counties. Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we’re continuing to build sustained economic momentum that benefits communities and residents across our Commonwealth.”

PIDA provides low-interest loans and lines of credit for eligible businesses that commit to creating and retaining full-time jobs, as well as for the development of industrial parks and multi-tenant facilities. Loans can be used for: land and building acquisitions; construction and renovation costs; machinery and equipment purchases; working capital and accounts receivable lines of credits; multi-tenant facility projects; and industrial park projects. 

The approved projects are as follows:  

Bucks County  

Erie County   

Lancaster County  

Since taking office, Governor Shapiro and his Administration have secured over $40.4 billion in private sector investments, creating more than 22,400 jobs. Analysis from Moody’s Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi confirms that Pennsylvania remains the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy. Governor Shapiro is committed to making Pennsylvania an economic development leader ― his recently unveiled 2026-27 state budget continues to focus on boosting the Commonwealth’s economic potential and growing the economy.

For more information about PIDA or the Department of Community and Economic Development, visit the agency’s website, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

Pennsylvania was officially founded when King Charles II gifted William Penn a charter back in 1681. This year, the Pennsylvania State Archives is pulling the original 345-year-old document – written on parchment with iron gall ink – from its high-security vault for a special public viewing. It's a chance to see history firsthand.

Here's all the birthday fun happening across the Commonwealth:

Participating historic sites and museums include: 

History for All Pennsylvanians

PHMC is committed to making Pennsylvania’s important place in history accessible throughout 2026 and beyond, meeting Pennsylvanians wherever they are. The commission will release a comprehensive virtual "PA History" lecture series providing an overview of state history, in addition to providing engaging content across social media platforms and specialized programs at the commission's historic sites and museums across the commonwealth. The State Historic Preservation office is also highlighting key stories in Pennsylvania history through four new themed historical marker trails.

About the Pennsylvania Trails of History

Explore Pennsylvania's rich history through the Pennsylvania Trails of History. These museums and historic sites, administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission, are organized into four thematic trails: Military History, Industrial Heritage, Historic Homes, and Rural Farm & Village. Learn more and plan your visit at Pennsylvania Trails of History.

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Learn more by visiting PHMC online or following us on Facebook, X, Instagram or LinkedIn.

The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget.

Public Utility Commission

The PUC oversees more than 8,000 entities which provide utility services across the state. Lawmakers raised concerns that Gov. Shapiro’s approach to energy is leading to higher costs for Pennsylvania consumers, while subsidizing lower energy prices in other states in the region.

PUC Commissioners testified that electricity generation is lagging well behind demand and more energy production for the grid is desperately needed.

Majority Leader Pittman on price collars increasing energy bills in Pennsylvania while lowering costs in other states, the lack of energy production in other states relative to energy use, and more

Senator Martin on meeting the growing demand for energy, the process of enacting rate increases on consumers, the impact of price collars on capacity auctions for energy, and more

Full Hearing

Video Highlights

The shortfall in energy generation and the importance of meeting rising demand were highlighted.

Concerns were raised that the governor’s price-fixing in PJM is discouraging other states from increasing electricity production.

Pennsylvania communities are losing opportunities for business growth and development due to a lack of availability of energy, despite the state’s status as a major electricity producer.

PUC provided a breakdown of all factors influencing consumers’ electric bills.

Discussions focused on the impact of data centers on availability, reliability and affordability of energy.

Transparency in rate case settlement was discussed.

An update was provided on deployment of broadband.

Presidents of Millersville, East Stroudsburg, West Chester and IUP

Gov. Shapiro’s budget would fund PASSHE at the current year’s appropriation of more than $625 million. Committee members focused on how PASSHE universities are working to improve enrollment and efficiency.

Majority Leader Pittman on how universities are working to differentiate themselves, competing with career and technical schools that are growing, addressing the footprint of universities in PA communities, and more

Senator Martin on the incredible success of the Grow PA Scholarship Grant program in helping students prepare for careers in high-demand fields in Pennsylvania, how participation in the Grow PA Tuition Waiver program can be improved, and more

Full Hearing

Video Highlights

Discussion focused on strategies to support and retain students and keep students engaged. 

How PASSHE schools are addressing vacant buildings and other properties was discussed. 

Efforts to get more students accepted into nursing programs were explored.

How universities have managed previous enrollment declines and economic and demographic challenges was highlighted. 

You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com

The Schools-to-Work program bridges classroom learning with real-world opportunity, aligning training with in-demand industries and workforce needs across the Commonwealth. It also strengthens partnerships among school districts, career and technical centers, employers, workforce boards, and training providers to help students graduate with a clear pathway into their chosen field, registered apprenticeship, or postsecondary education. 

“Schools-to-Work is about making sure students don’t just graduate with a diploma, but with direction,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we have made workforce development for young Pennsylvanians a priority because we know early exposure to real careers changes lives. These investments connect students to hands-on experience, industry credentials, and employers, while strengthening the pipeline Pennsylvania businesses depend on to grow.”

Secretary Walker announced the investment today during an event at Susquehanna Township School District’s (STSD) Sara Lindemuth / Anna Carter Primary School. STSD was awarded $236,226 in this latest round of Schools-to-Work and is now able to launch its Preparing Aspiring Teachers for Higher Education (PATH-Ed) registered pre-apprenticeship program. PATH-Ed will build upon the district’s successful Cadet Teaching Program and help address ongoing teacher workforce shortages in Pennsylvania. 

“Our students are not only the leaders of tomorrow,” said Dr. Tamara Willis, Susquehanna Township School District Superintendent of Schools. “They are the teachers of tomorrow. This grant advances the systems our team built to identify, inspire, and prepare future educators right here in Susquehanna Township.”

Students like STSD Cadet Teacher Cole Hunsberger are already seeing how Schools-to-Work opens doors to meaningful careers in education.

“I have had an entirely positive experience in the Cadet Teaching Program, and the skills I have learned will continue to prepare me for a career in education,” Hunsberger said. “Through the program, I have had the chance to teach a full class, work with small groups, and provide one-on-one support, while also observing effective classroom management and practicing those strategies myself. Just as importantly, I have been able to support the teacher I am placed with as an extra set of hands in the classroom. The Cadet program gives students who are interested in teaching first-hand experience, so they can truly understand the work and know whether this path is the right fit for them.”

For 2025 STSD graduate and former Cadet Teacher Zimere Martin, the experience provided clarity and confidence about pursuing a career in education.

“Participating in the Cadet Teaching Program in high school was a life-changing experience that shaped my personal and professional growth,” Martin said. “It gave me real classroom experience, strengthened my confidence and leadership skills, and confirmed that I want to pursue a career in education, specifically as a special education teacher. Because of the foundation the program provided, I was offered a summer school position after graduation and later a paraprofessional role with paid schooling through the Cadet Program, creating a clear pathway from high school into the profession. I am grateful for the doors it opened and for programs like this that help students turn early experiences into long-term, meaningful careers.”

A Foundation of Workforce Development Progress

Over the past three years, Governor Josh Shapiro has made investing in workforce development a cornerstone of his Administration. The Commonwealth increased funding for vo-tech, career and technical education, and apprenticeship programs by nearly 50 percent, from $118 million to $183 million, registered 231 new pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships, and enrolled nearly 18,000 new apprentices as of January 2026. More than 39,000 Pennsylvanians have participated in apprenticeships during that time, opening doors to stable, family-sustaining careers.

Those workforce gains are part of broader economic momentum across Pennsylvania, where more than 22,400 good-paying jobs have been created and $40.4 billion in private-sector investment has been attracted statewide.

Governor Shapiro’s 2026-27 budget plan builds directly on that foundation by proposing to:

Together, these investments continue strengthening Pennsylvania’s workforce pipeline and ensure students graduate with the skills, credentials, and experience employers need.

Across the Commonwealth, this round of Schools-to-Work projects align training with high-demand industries including the skilled trades, health care, manufacturing, information technology, and education; the $4.1 million investment is 100% state funded.

Susquehanna Township School District (Dauphin County, $236,226)Establishes PATH-Ed, expanding the district’s Cadet Teaching Program and building a pipeline of future educators through dual enrollment and work-study experiences.

Farrell Area School District (Mercer County, $216,500)Launches a construction pre-apprenticeship connecting students to electrical, plumbing, and carpentry pathways.

University of Pittsburgh–Titusville (Crawford, Erie, Forest, Venango, Warren Counties, $250,000)Expands machining and CNC pre-apprenticeship certifications aligned with regional manufacturing demand.

JEVS Human Services (Philadelphia County, $249,918)Expands Certified Medical Assistant pre-apprenticeship cohorts.

Launchpad (Philadelphia County, $250,000)Delivers a software developer pre-apprenticeship for high school juniors and seniors.

Lehigh Valley Hospital, Inc. (Lehigh County, $250,000)Enhances allied health career pathways through Health Care Futures programming.

Fayette County Career and Technical Institute (Fayette and Westmoreland Counties, $250,000)Implements HVAC, plumbing, pipefitting, and sheet metal pathways with industry-recognized credentials.

Auberle (Allegheny County, $249,944)Provides construction pre-apprenticeship training paired with supportive services.

Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 (Schuylkill County, $250,000)Establishes workforce readiness initiatives including the county’s first registered carpentry pre-apprenticeship.

Harrisburg Area School District (Dauphin County, $250,000)Creates integrated Schools-to-Work pathways in health/EMT, IT, and construction.

Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science & Technology (Centre, Clinton, and Mifflin Counties, $250,000.00)Launches automation and instrumentation pre-apprenticeship linked to mechatronics.

Manufacturers’ Association of South Central PA (Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, York, and Chester Counties, $250,000)Expands manufacturing-focused Schools-to-Work exposure and training.

Chester County Intermediate Unit #24 (Chester County, $249,614)Delivers health career pre-apprenticeship training with industry credentials.

Per Scholas (Philadelphia County, $200,000)Prepares seniors for IT support careers through school-to-apprenticeship programming.

Philadelphia Youth Network (Philadelphia County, $250,000)Develops a new healthcare-focused registered pre-apprenticeship.

Industrial Arts Workshop, Inc. (Allegheny County, $250,000)Introduces welding pathways aligned with industry standards.

Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (Montgomery County, $216,090)Supports co-op and work-based learning connected to skilled trades pathways.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, please visit the website or follow L&I on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. 

Photos and video from this event are avaliable on PA Cast. 

The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget.

Department of Transportation

Many questions centered around the Public Transportation Trust Fund (PTTF), which has grown to $2.4 billion even after the governor flexed money out of the fund to support the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll testified under oath that SEPTA and PRT have not utilized hundreds of millions of capital dollars allocated to them in PTTF.

Full Hearing (Part 1)

Full Hearing (Part 2)

Majority Leader Pittman on the continued growth of PTTF, major transit agencies deferring projects while money sits in PTTF unused, why transportation funds were flexed away from infrastructure projects two years ago when billions in PTTF funds were available, the lack of transparency on projects and expenditures, and more

Senator Martin on serious inconsistencies in testimony PennDOT provided to House lawmakers regarding the Senate-passed transportation plan in August, whether PennDOT actually read the bill before testifying, the impact of flexing PTTF funding for SEPTA and PRT, and more

Video Highlights

The Shapiro Administration could have acted to prevent the SEPTA service cuts that impacted Philadelphians in August, but they chose not to act. 

Gov. Shapiro’s proposed transfer of $33 million in PTTF interest to the General Fund in next year’s budget does not delay any capital projects, proving there is excess money in the fund. 

The growing balance of the Motor License Fund was also questioned. The fund balance has grown by more than $2 billion over the past decade. 

SEPTA has not right-sized routes or addressed serious safety concerns amid reduced ridership post-COVID. 

Concerns were discussed regarding the issuance of nondomiciled commercial driver’s licenses. 

It was unclear how long PennDOT was aware of the challenges facing Philadelphia’s Silverliner Regional Rail trains.

Questions were raised about how PennDOT prioritizes capital improvement projects.

There was bipartisan agreement on the need for PennDOT to better communicate about how PTTF and Motor License Fund dollars are allocated. 

PennDOT refused to take a position on the potential removal of sovereign immunity caps. 

An update was provided on the planned launch of a second daily Amtrak Pennsylvanian line.

You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com.

Judge Jeffery Conrad handed down the sentence to Christopher A. Rivera, of Middletown Borough, on Friday.

A jury had found Rivera guilty of two counts each of robbery, rape forcible compulsion and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse forcible compulsion as well as four counts of sexual assault following a three-day trial in October.

Rivera, 38, held the victims at gunpoint with a pellet gun at the spa located in the 1200 block of Lancaster Road the evening of Aug. 27, 2024.

At first Rivera demanded the two victims give him money, but after they surrendered more than $800 from the store’s proceeds he then forced them both into a massage room where he raped them.  

Surveillance footage from inside the spa showed Rivera pointing the weapon at the victims and forcing them into one of the massage rooms, then fleeing out a rear door as police entered the business.

A Northern Lancaster County Regional Police officer who responded to the scene shortly after 8 p.m. ultimately shot Rivera as he was fleeing, ignoring lawful orders and produced the pellet gun, which closely resembled that of a semi-automatic handgun.  

District Attorney Heather Adams later determined that the responding officer was legally justified in firing at Rivera.

Assistant District Attorney Fritz Haverstick prosecuted the case.

Lancaster County Detective Brent Shultz filed the charges.

As the Commonwealth experiences a loss of more than 7.6 million birds since the start of this year, Governor Shapiro listened to the concerns of those closest to the HPAI surge, and last week, directed his Administration to mobilize additional personnel, expand testing capacity, and coordinate closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and industry partners.  

Pennsylvania remains the only state in the nation with a dedicated HPAI Recovery Fund, designed to help poultry producers stabilize and recover from devastating losses. Since 2022, $75 million has been committed to the fund, with $59.4 million currently in reserve. To date, 302 poultry businesses have received $15.6 million in grants to offset losses, sustain operations, and strengthen biosecurity protections — 150 of those receiving farms have implemented enhanced disease-prevention improvements.

“Pennsylvania’s farmers are the backbone of our communities and I know many are worried about the recent rise in HPAI cases,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration is working around the clock to expand our rapid response efforts and mitigate this surge. We are deploying more personnel, expanding our testing ability, and coordinating closely with the federal government and our industry partners to ensure we have our poultry farmers' backs every step of the way.”

The roundtable was held at the PennAg Industries Rapid Response Center, which works closely with PDA to support the Commonwealth’s farmers and ag industry. Located in Lancaster, at the heart of Pennsylvania’s $7.1 billion poultry industry, the Center houses specialized equipment and technology to quickly contain and eliminate disease outbreaks when they occur. 

Poultry is the largest sector of Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry — supporting nearly 48,800 farms and almost 600,000 jobs across the Commonwealth. 

“This center and the skilled, ready, and dedicated response team have been indispensable to our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to avian influenza,” said Secretary Redding. “The investments Pennsylvania has made — not only to fight the financial toll the virus brings with it, but the human toll on our poultry producers. When the virus hits, they suffer a tremendous financial blow overnight, and they are working round the clock under tremendous strain. We are hopeful that every producer will take advantage of resources like HPAI Recovery Grants, and the Farmer Mental Health Hotline — both are available to help get us through to a better time, and back in business.”

In addition to working to procure more than $380,000 in additional resources to support increased high-volume testing and aggressive biosecurity efforts, over the past week, the Shapiro Administration has expanded the team of experts working to contain and suppress the virus and minimize business downtime.

Three Pennsylvania National Guard Civilian Support team members joined 55 Commonwealth veterinarians, other state employees, and four Penn State Extension experts already dedicated to the response, as well as temporarily reassigning administrative staff and expediting hiring to fill vacancies in support of the response. The expanded team also includes 42 USDA employees and industry leaders. In total, 105 staff are now assigned to mitigating the spread of HPAI.

PennAg Industries Association has also played a critical role in driving HPAI preparedness and response. In addition to managing the Rapid Response Center, PennAg serves as Pennsylvania’s Center for Poultry and Livestock Excellence, one of four agricultural centers for excellence collectively supported by a $4.1 million investment in the state budget to provide professional and educational development and research support within specific sectors of the state’s agriculture industry.

“The Rapid Response Center, like all of the resources PennAg provides, is designed to give the targeted expertise, technology, and equipment our poultry and livestock producers need, when they need it, and where it will be the most effective,” said PennAg Industries Vice President Chris Herr. “Having established trust and year-round relationships with producers has put us in a position to respond quickly, train farm managers and staff, and work efficiently with government and industry leaders together.”

Pennsylvania’s Rapid Response

When an HPAI case is detected, state animal health teams deploy immediately, alongside partners at the USDA and local emergency management officials. Together, they work to quarantine affected sites, conduct testing, oversee virus elimination, and guide cleaning and disinfection protocols to prevent further spread.

The Commonwealth has also significantly expanded testing and surveillance capacity to meet ongoing demand for avian flu. From July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, Pennsylvania’s Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System (PADLS) processed 672,342 HPAI tests, including more than 200,000 poultry samples and 29,000 cattle samples, helping ensure swift diagnoses, protect commerce, and minimize economic disruption. 

“We’re working to strengthen biosecurity and surveillance through initiatives like the Biosecurity Assurance Program, while expanding partnerships across the poultry industry and with our government and sister agencies,” said Dr. Alex Hamberg, State Veterinarian. “Many of the best solutions come from the people who are in the field every day — and the only way we get through this is by working together.”

Since January of 2026, as infections have surged, PADLS has already performed 8,000 tests in the last six weeks, testing 80,000 birds in less than two months. 

Shapiro Administration’s Work to Strengthen Readiness

To further strengthen Pennsylvania’s readiness to respond to potential agricultural disease outbreaks, Governor Shapiro secured $6 million in the 2024–25 budget to establish a fourth diagnostic laboratory at Penn State Beaver, which will increase sample surge capacity and improve statewide surveillance, particularly for producers in western Pennsylvania. 

In his 2026–27 proposed budget, the Governor is seeking $11 million for Agricultural Preparedness and Response, including $2 million to support operations at the new lab, fully funding the Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission, the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System, including critical partners University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School, and Penn State University College of Agricultural Sciences.

The first piece of legislation Governor Shapiro signed into law last year provided an update to Pennsylvania’s animal health laws, helping meet poultry industry needs by expanding the types of samples Certified Poultry Technicians may draw to include those needed to test for HPAI. This has resulted in 211 new workers to meet critical demand to fight the disease threat, bringing the current total to nearly 900 certified poultry technicians to fight the disease threat. In addition, there are currently over 500 producers trained as HPAI Samplers to collect samples from their flocks during an outbreak.

In February 2025, Governor Shapiro also met with USDA leadership, including Secretary Brooke Rollins, and leadership in the Pennsylvania General Assembly to coordinate additional resources and ensure rapid response capacity. The Governor has made clear how Pennsylvania depends on critical partnerships between our state and federal teams when responding to the avian flu – and the Shapiro Administration remains actively engaged with the USDA and Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation to secure the resources and assistance our farmers need. 

Governor Shapiro and Secretary Redding were also joined by members of Pennsylvania’s General Assembly for today’s roundtable discussion.

“HPAI poses a serious threat to Pennsylvania’s poultry farmers and to the families who depend on their products,” said Senator Judith Schwank, Senate Democratic Ag Chair, PA’s 11th Senatorial District. “The Shapiro administration is responding to this crisis with the urgency it demands by mobilizing the resources necessary to protect our communities and our food supply. Now, more than ever, we need a unified effort to slow the spread of the disease and minimize its impact on our farmers.”

“HPAI infections present a severe risk to poultry operations, not only here in Pennsylvania, but across the country. Tackling this crisis requires great teamwork, coordination, and availability of critical resources to help impacted farms and identify new cases to reduce the disease’s spread,” said Senator Scott Martin, Senate Republican Appropriations Chair, PA’s 13th Senatorial District. "Both sides of the aisle have worked to ensure we have enough testing and monitoring capacity to protect more flocks from being affected, and have been diligent working cooperatively with the Ag Industry in proactively being prepared and strategically staging resources. Today’s roundtable was an important step to keep the lines of communication open and ensure everything is being done to protect poultry operations throughout the state, especially during this critical time.”

“I’m grateful for the updates we’ve received from the Administration since this outbreak began," said Senator James Malone, PA’s 36th Senatorial District. “I know there’s concern among our farmers… and having as much information as possible, so that everyone can do what is most effective for our farmers, is essential.”

"Pennsylvania’s poultry industry is a cornerstone of our agricultural economy. I, along with the members of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, would like to express our gratitude to Governor Shapiro and his office for their prompt response and efforts to support the farmers as we confront HPAI," said Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, House Democratic Ag Chair, PA’s 121st House District. "The General Assembly is committed to working alongside producers, veterinarians, and state agencies to support strong biosecurity, rapid response, and long-term solutions that protect this industry.”

"HPAI isn’t a red or a blue issue, it impacts everyone in the state. I am appreciative of the quick response and the amount of resources at the ready to battle this virus,” said Representative Dan Moul, House Republican Ag Chair, PA’s 91st House District. “It is impressive to see the speed at which PDA and USDA have come together for the Pennsylvania poultry Industry."

"I would like to thank the Administration for the quick response to the current outbreak of HPAI. I know that the poultry industry is grateful for the resources that have been deployed by both PDA and USDA,” said Representative Brett Miller, PA’s 41st House District. “Having the rapid response center located in our backyard is a Godsend in a situation like this."

What Agricultural Producers Can Do

PDA continues to emphasize the importance of strict adherence to farm-specific biosecurity plans to combat avian flu and reduce the risk of disease.

With wild bird migration increasing seasonal risk, PDA is urging all poultry producers — commercial and backyard — to reinforce preventative measures immediately:

Producers should report sick birds or unexplained deaths to 717-772-2852. Anyone encountering sick or dead wild birds should contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD. Producers may also request free Wildlife Biosecurity Assessments through USDA resources.

HPAI presents very low risk to the general public and poultry products remain safe to consume when properly handled and cooked. However, the virus is highly infectious and generally fatal to domestic birds, making vigilance and rapid response essential.

Producers whose flocks become infected or whose operations are temporarily paused due to nearby detections are encouraged to apply for HPAI Recovery Grants.

“The Recovery Grant we were able to apply for was super helpful for us, as first generation farmers. It was fast, direct, and easy to apply for,” said Heather Lewis, a poultry producer in Pennsylvania. “There’s not another state where we’d feel so supported.”

For more information on avian influenza prevention and response resources, visit agriculture.pa.gov.

The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget.

State Police

Total state funding for the State Police in FY 2026-27 is proposed at $1.6 billion, $1.35 billion of which comes from the state’s General Fund. This represents an increase of more than 9% over the current fiscal year.

Numerous questions and concerns were raised about the use of over $1 million for security upgrades for the governor’s personal residence in Montgomery County.

Full Hearing

Senator Martin on improving transparency around the use of taxpayer dollars for Governor Shapiro’s private home, facing challenges in getting more Pennsylvanians interested in careers in law enforcement, and more

Video Highlights

Questions were raised about the legality of using State Police funds for physical improvements to a private residence.

No guidelines have been developed by the State Police to determine when such construction projects for a private residence would be appropriate.

Potential violations of the state’s Procurement Code related to the governor’s private residence were discussed. No written legal opinion was provided to State Police regarding the purchase of security upgrades.

Concerns were discussed about $15 million in missing revenue from the PICS system that was recently discovered.

Doubts were expressed about the accuracy of Gov. Shapiro’s projections that State Police costs would not rise through 2030.

Efforts to crack down on the use of sophisticated fake IDs were discussed.

An update was provided on ongoing efforts to prepare for several high-profile events scheduled in Pennsylvania throughout the year.

A significant increase was requested for the State Police’s IT budget.

State Police staffing demands for coverage of casinos was questioned.

Greater cost efficiencies with taxpayer dollars were discussed.

Department of General Services

Gov. Shapiro is proposing a budget of nearly $180 million for the Department of General Services from the state’s General Fund, an 11.8% increase over the current year.

Full Hearing

Senator Martin on efforts to optimize the use of state-owned and state-leased properties, adjusting to telework policies, improving the state’s procurement process, and more

Video Highlights

Concerns were raised about the estimated cost of vacant and underused properties owned or leased by state government.

The department was encouraged to get unused state-owned properties conveyed and back on the tax rolls.

The cost to restore the Governor’s Mansion and make safety and security improvements was explored. 

The department confirmed they did not provide a legal opinion to the State Police regarding the purchase of security upgrades at the governor’s private residence.

The complement for the Capitol Police and measures to ensure safety during events at the Capitol were discussed.

An update was provided on ways to save taxpayer dollars through procurement. Additional information was requested on cost savings realized by public schools for the purchase of AEDs.

You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com.

Judge Jeffrey Conrad sentenced Anthony Charles Lawrence, of Coatesville, after he pleaded guilty Feb. 9 to three counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a person less than 16 years of age, one count each of statutory sexual assault, rape forcible compulsion and unlawful contact with a minor and two counts of corruption of minors.

The case had been scheduled to begin trial the same day before Judge Conrad when Lawrence instead submitted the guilty plea and was sentenced.

Lawrence, 44, raped the victim multiple times at a residence in the 400 block of Lampeter Road during a seven-month-long pattern of sexual abuse that lasted from late 2021 until mid-2022.

The teenaged victim told police that Lawrence, then 40, began abusing her in October 2021. Lawrence continued to sexually assault the victim regularly until June 2022.

As part of his sentence Lawrence must register as a sex offender and will be evaluated to determine if he is a sexually violent predator.

Assistant District Attorney Jessica Collo prosecuted the case.

West Lampeter Township Police Officer Steven Heinly filed the charges.

Carlos Jimenez Venegas, of the 100 block of Tabor Road, waived his preliminary hearing before Judge Jonathan Heisse on Feb. 3 on 10 total charges including rape of a child, among other offenses. On the same day Jimenez Venegas also waived a separate preliminary hearing before Judge Heisse on five felony offenses, including two counts of indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age. 

In total, Jimenez Venegas faces a combined 15 felony and misdemeanor offenses. 

Jimenez Venegas, 44, is accused of raping and sexually abusing one of the victims about 30 times, first at a residence in the 100 block of Maple Street in Leacock Township and later at a second home in the 3500 block of Lincoln Highway East in Paradise Township between 2014 and 2019. 

The victim, who would have been between the ages of 9 and 14 at the time of the offenses, told police Jimenez Venegas threatened to kill her mother if she ever resisted his sexual advances. 

As Pennsylvania State Police were looking into the allegations the victim told them of a separate incident where Jimenez Venegas is accused of sexually abusing a different young girl at his residence in the 100 block of Tabor Road. The second victim told police Jimenez Venegas sexually abused her multiple times at the residence when she was between the ages of 8 and 13 years old. 

Jimenez Venegas remains in Lancaster County Prison in lieu of a combined $1.25 million bail from both dockets. 

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Richard Whitehouse and West Earl Township Police Det. Heather Halstead filed the charges. 

Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Lapp will prosecute both cases. 

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Raul Angel Lopez-Fargas, 37, waived his preliminary hearing before Judge Denise Commins on Jan. 30 on charges of rape of a child and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age, indecent exposure, corruption of minors and endangering the welfare of children.

Then, on Feb. 2, Lopez-Fargas waived a separate preliminary hearing before Judge Jodie Richardson on charges of aggravated indecent assault of a child, indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age, corruption of minors and endangering the welfare of children.

In total, Lopez-Fargas faces 10 different offenses, eight of them graded as felonies.

Lopez-Fargas is accused of sexually abusing and assaulting one of the victims at his residence in the 500 block of South Duke Street on two different occasions in 2017 or 2018. The victim would have been about 7 or 8 years old at the time of the offenses.

Police began investigating Lopez-Fargas after the victim reported the abuse to law enforcement in October 2025.

In an interview with police Lopez-Fargas admitted to having abused the victim.

During the interview Lopez-Fargas also disclosed that had raped a different 6-year-old girl at a residence in the 2100 block of Horseshoe Road in East Lampeter Township in 2013. A detective spoke with the girl who told police Lopez-Fargas had raped her.

Lopez-Fargas remains in Lancaster County Prison without bail.

East Lampeter Township Police Det. Christopher Jones and Lancaster City Bureau of Police Officer Harry Valverde filed the charges.

Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Ponessa will prosecute both cases.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026-27 would increase spending by $2.7 billion, 5.4% more than the current budget.

Department of Corrections

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget would increase spending for the Department of Corrections to nearly $3.4 billion, a $142 million increase on the prior year. The 4.4% increase comes despite the fact the department is closing two correctional facilities and 6,000 beds under capacity for the remaining facilities.

Full Hearing

Sen. Martin on officer overtime concerns, improving recruitment efforts, and the inclusion of healthy overtime policy.

Sen. Martin called into question the Shapiro Administration’s unrealistic out year projections for the Department of Corrections following cost savings from the closure of two state prisons.

Video Highlights

Concerns regarding prospects of future state prison closures, keeping medical costs down and best practices to treat inmates with serious mental health issues, such as medical parole pilot program, were addressed. 

With efforts to focus on cost efficiency and prison violence, questions were raised about the department’s waiver application to hold onto last year’s appropriated money as well as if they would support corrections officers having body cameras. 

The department was asked to elaborate on what they are actively doing to improve internal efficiency practices and increase agency cost saving measures, especially since their budget request increased despite closing two state prisons. 

Inquired about the percentage of food contributions inmates come from Pennsylvania sources  as well as further broke down the benefits and challenges of equipping corrections officers with body cameras. 

With SCI Phoenix corrections officers facing struggles with mandatory overtime, the department was encouraged to consider offering voluntary officer transfers with other prison facilities to help alleviate this burden as well as look at potentially reducing open beds and apply that funding to other priority agency needs. 

Inmate access to tablets and computers as well as how much taxpayer funding is used to monitor their usage was explored. 

Following the PA Parole Board receiving additional funding last year to support its Sex Offender Assessments Board (SOAB), Parole Board Chairman Fox was asked to provide an update on SOAB efforts.

With institution violence rate reaching a record high, questions were raised about what the department is doing to decrease assaults and keep inmates and officers safe. 

Department of Environmental Protection

Under Gov. Shapiro’s budget, spending for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) would increase by more than $54 million to more than $291 million, $36 million of which is a result of transfers to the Well Plugging Account and the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Fund.

Full Hearing

Sen. Martin on the current status of Pennsylvania’s permitting process, streamlining permitting process for new baseload generation projects, and energy affordability.

Pennsylvania’s water quality efforts benefit all citizens – not just the Chesapeake Bay. Sen. Martin asks DEP to elaborate on the measurable outcomes of the Clean Streams Fund investments and how they compare to the Chesapeake Bay Commission targets.

Video Highlights

Pennsylvania is a leading exporter of energy; however, the commonwealth is close to reaching its maximum energy storage capacities while trying to meet growing energy demands – concerns regarding this ongoing crisis as well as questions about well plugging and PFAS were discussed. 

Regarding the department’s Hazardous Clean Up Fund, DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley was asked to clarify why this fund is shown receiving a $20 million transfer over the next several fiscal years when the governor’s budget proposal states this should only be a one-time transfer. 

Questions related to the attempted Cuff Run land grab in York County, the department’s permit payback program and reducing permitting costs to make homeownership more affordable was addressed. 

The department was asked about its reduction in permit turnaround, who is responsible for the clean-up of Camp Delmont which is being bought by Natural Lands and the permitting process for portable nuclear reactors. 

Eight large scale projects are being fast tracked in Pennsylvania, with six of those being data centers – the department was asked to explain its criteria for fast-tracking these projects. 

PFAS and biosolids remain an issue in the commonwealth and it was asked of DEP to share how they are looking to address this. Alternative Sewage Treatment facilities questions were also discussed. 

You can find recaps and video from every Senate budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com.

But when we opened the locker room door, something was different. Sitting on the bench was a boy we all recognized, a runner from the boys’ cross country team just months earlier.

No one had told us. Not our coaches. Not our principal. 

At first, many of us stayed quiet. Surely, we thought, if this were really happening, someone would have prepared us. But as the days passed, it became clear that the adults had made a decision about our team, our privacy, and our competition, and we were expected to simply accept it.

When I approached my coaches, I was told they weren’t allowed to talk about it with me. When I went to the school administrators, I was shut down. Our concerns about fairness and privacy were dismissed,  as if they were irrelevant. It was one of the most demoralizing experiences of my life. I then approached my School Board at Hempfield School District, and thankfully, many of the adults there listened to the girls’ concerns. I began attending school board meetings. Other girls joined me. That board passed a Girls’ Sports Policy that protected women and girls at Hempfield. 

But many other girls across our state and nation have not been so lucky as to have the adults in charge pass laws that will protect them. As recently reported by OutKick, a male wrestler competing in the girls’ division has been accused of sexually assaulting a female opponent. 

This is a sobering example of what can happen when adults ignore obvious biological differences and fail to protect the girls in their care.

This is not just about the elite athletes or those winning championship titles. The presence of a male competitor has a huge effect on morale. It affected team unity. It affected the confidence of girls who had trained for years, believing that “girls’ sports” meant something real. 

The truth is, this is not a fringe issue, and it continues to happen all over the country, and within Pennsylvania. Polling consistently shows that roughly 80 percent of Americans, across party lines, agree that males should not compete in female sports. You do not reach that kind of consensus in this country without broad, bipartisan common sense. Yet many elected leaders continue to ignore it.

That is why I am proud to work with Voices of Americans, a Pennsylvania nonprofit committed to ensuring that everyday citizens are heard. Their mission is simple: Amplify the voices of Americans whose concerns have been dismissed and remind elected officials that they serve the people, not ideology.

This issue is about more than sports. It is about truth. No matter what a boy does to his body, he will never be a girl. Saying that is not hate. It is love, because love tells the truth.

Our culture increasingly teaches that affirming someone’s self-perception, even when it contradicts biological reality, is the highest form of compassion. But compassion does not require us to deny reality. It does not require us to sacrifice fairness for women and girls. And it certainly does not require us to tell a child that he can become something he is not.

When we tell a boy that he can become a girl, we are not just impacting female athletes. We are harming him, too.

Children deserve honesty. They deserve adults who are willing to anchor them in reality, not reinforce confusion. Actions never happen in a vacuum. What we normalize shapes belief. What we affirm shapes identity. When we tell children that biology is optional, we place a burden on them that no kid should carry.

I know what it feels like when adults refuse to speak up. I know what it feels like to realize that the people you trusted to protect you are unwilling to say what is obviously true. That is why I decided to speak up.

With the help of the Pennsylvania Family Council, we worked on state legislation that protects female sports and locker rooms. Lawmakers across Pennsylvania have introduced legislation like the Women’s Sports Act because they understand what is at stake.

This should not be controversial. Girls deserve fair competition. Girls deserve privacy. Girls deserve adult leaders who will defend them. And children struggling with identity deserve truth, not comforting falsehoods.

Truth and love belong together. Real love tells the truth even when it is uncomfortable. Real love protects the vulnerable even when it is unpopular. 

Organizations like Voices of Americans are encouraging citizens to contact their legislators and remind them that fairness in women’s sports is not extreme — it is common sense.

I did not ask to become a public voice on this issue. I simply wanted to finish my senior season as track captain. But when ideology entered our locker room, silence was no longer an option.

If we fail to speak now, the next generation of girls will inherit a world where fairness is negotiable, and truth is considered cruelty. They deserve better. And so do the boys who are being told they can change their sex.

No matter what a boy does to his body, he will never be a girl. Saying that is not hate. It is love.

Lilyana Williams is a former high school track and field captain from Hempfield School District in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She began speaking out after her firsthand experience with a male competing in girls’ sports. She is an advocate for fairness, privacy, and truth in women’s athletics.

Shannon Eric Steckbeck, of West Hanover Township, waived his preliminary hearing before Judge Clark Bearinger on Jan. 6 on a single count of robbery.

Steckbeck, 59, is accused of demanding employees give him money from the cash drawer of a Truist Bank in the 2600 block of North Reading Road the afternoon of Nov. 14.

A bank teller initially believed Steckbeck was joking until he stated it was a robbery and again demanded the money in the drawer. Steckbeck then fled the bank with cash.

Eyewitnesses spotted a man matching the suspect’s description entering a car parked about a block away from the bank and then quickly leaving the area.

Through the investigation police identified Steckbeck as the suspect and determined that he was also a suspect in a separate bank robbery in York County days later.

Northern York County Regional police arrested Steckbeck at a motel about a week after the East Cocalico Township robbery.

Steckbeck is currently being held in York County Prison.

East Cocalico Township Police Officer Steven Walsh filed the charges.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.