Jeff Cole: Latest News

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24.05.2023 / 22:37

Student, staff safety tops Philadelphia superintendent's 5-year plan

PHILADELPHIA - The Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia says he is ready to launch his 5-year strategic plan and believes safety for students and staff is his top priority.In an interview with FOX 29's Jeff Cole, Watlington, who arrived in the city nearly one year ago, said "we must win this war on gun violence in our city, and it’s a shared responsibility between the school district, the city, police department and parents."Watlington will present his Strategic Plan to the School Board Thursday. It was drawn up after months of meetings around the city, with the help of a consulting firm that was paid $450,000.The board will find that improving student achievement places third in the Superintendent’s list of priorities. Watlington believes schools need to be safe havens for students and staff to make the most of their educational opportunities, but the onus for safety isn't only on the school district.MORE LOCAL HEADLINES"For teachers to do their jobs schools have to be safe, students and staff must be safe," Watlington, 54, said.

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Philadelphia police report progress in illegal drifting investigation

PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia police say they are making progress in the investigation of an illegal drifting event last week. They towed a car from a Delaware County home Friday and arrested a man in Delaware in what looks to be a pushback against last weekend’s wild, car stunt that clogged city streets and led to the police shooting of an 18-year-old.In Collingdale, Delaware County, a police tow truck pulled a blue SUV away from a Roberta Avenue home.

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Chester mayoral candidate strives to turn around beleaguered city

CHESTER, Pa. - The City of Chester, a beleaguered suburb of Philadelphia, will have a new mayor in January after a member of city council ousted their longtime mayor. Stefan Root, a 62-year-old Councilmember and electrical engineer, defeated two-term Mayor Thaddeus Kirkland by thousands of votes in the city's recent election. If he beats an independent challenger in the fall, Root will take the reins of the bankrupt city that's finances are currently controlled by a state-appointed receiver with a $45M hole in its pension. "Most of my work is going to be in city hall, straightening up city hall trying to turn it back into a business because it’s a $65M operation not a corner store operation.," Root told FOX 29's Jeff Cole. When manufacturing vanished in Chester the city faded. Some of its 33k residents struggle with poverty on streets marred by broken down homes. Roots said he wants to work with the state Receiver to fix the city’s deep financial problems.

Jeff Cole state Pennsylvania county Chester Citi Fighting Provident Manufacturing Kirklands

Local parent holds son from school after he showed up on 'kill list' made by other students

LOWER MERION, Pa. - The parent of a 5th grade student at Bala Cynwyd Middle School is keeping his child away from school after he says he showed up on a "kill list" made by other students.The parent, who asked to remain anonymous, said they received a call from Lower Merion School officials on Mar. 27 - the same day six were killed in a school shooting in Nashville - and told their son had been threatened. "Other students suggested that a list be made of students within the building who they hoped are shot," the parent told FOX 29's Jeff Cole.

Jeff Cole city Nashville consequences isolate Department

Philadelphia mayoral candidates quarrel over proposed Sixers arena

PHILADELPHIA - As excitement builds for the 76ers upcoming playoff run, those vying to be the next mayor of Philadelphia are voicing their opinions on a controversial proposal to build a new arena in Center City.Discourse about the proposed Chinatown arena was one of several highlights from FOX 29's Democratic Mayoral Debate held Tuesday night at Temple University's Liacouras Center. Candidate Helen Gym said she met with the land developer to convey her message that billionaires are not deserving of public subsidies. Gym also attacked fellow candidate Jeff Brown, who supports the proposed project. Brown, who founded a grocery store chain Brown's Super Stores, is embroiled in legal action by Philadelphia's ethics board which claims he broke campaign finance rules by working with an outside spending group. PHILADELPHIA MAYORAL RACE"I did not collude with them and when we go to court that will be found out," said Brown when asked by FOX 29's Jeff Cole about the allegations during Tuesday night's debate. Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Philadelphia's Board of Ethics Shane Creamer says their investigation "speaks for itself," adding that Brown allegedly coordinated with the Super PAC and a 501C4. A city judge will hear the case in late-April, just weeks before the Philadelphia Democratic primary election for mayor.

Jeff Cole Jeff Brown Helen Gym Amen Brown city Center city Chinatown sports Citi Action

First on FOX: Upper Darby mayor reflects on alcohol abuse, provides update on recovery

UPPER DARBY, Pa. - A Pennsylvania town mayor who was arrested for DUI after leaving a political fundraiser in January and has since sought treatment for alcohol abuse is urging others fighting the same battle to seek help before it's too late."I just would like to use this platform that I have to talk about it and make people feel there is hope," Upper Darby Mayor Barbarann Keffer told FOX 29's Jeff Cole in an exclusive interview. Keffer, 56-years-old and a mother of two, was pulled over on Jan. 26 after leaving a political fundraiser in Boothwyn.

Jeff Cole Upper Darby state Pennsylvania county Cole testing platform Fighting Provident

Philadelphia's Next Mayor: Democratic Primary Debate on FOX 29

PHILADELPHIA - FOX 29 and Temple University have partnered to host "You Decide: Philadelphia’s Next Mayor, The Democratic Primary Debate" live from Temple University. The eight Democratic candidates for Mayor of Philadelphia will face off in a 90-minute-long LIVE debate, hosted at Temple University, where they will field questions on the most pressing issues for Philadelphians - from quality of life, to education, crime, and the economy. FOX 29 Evening Anchor Jason Martinez will serve as moderator for this limited commercial presentation, with FOX 29’s Shiba Russell leading a panel including Thomas Drayton and Jeff Cole. In addition, FOX 29’s Shawnette Wilson will present questions from the live audience comprised of Temple University students and local community members. WHEN: Tuesday, April 11th 6:30 p.m.

Jeff Cole Thomas Drayton economy

Philadelphia Controller's review of police spending details staffing issues, varying 911 response times

PHILADELPHIA - In a city struggling with violent crime, the Philadelphia City Controller’s Office has found that there are fewer police officers now than in recent years. "In total, we have over 640 fewer officers available for duty than we had 5 years ago," City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart explained in an interview with FOX 29’s Jeff Cole. Of the 6,000 Philadelphia police officers, Rhynhart reports on 2,500 are assigned to patrol the city’s streets. Broken down of 21 police districts, the controller’s office found that number left just 11 to 22 cops on the beat at any one time - per district - in a department budgeted at more than 750 million dollars at the time of the review.PPD Uniform Officer Staffing Levels (Philadelphia Office of the Controller) "That amount of money, when it comes down to it, there’s only 11 to 22 officers at any given time per district," Rhyhart said. "That feels outrageous in a city that is overrun with gun crime. How has that happened, how has that gotten to be like that?" Cole asked. "What needs to happen is that every position needs to be looked at," Rhynhart replied. Rhynhart’s audit on police spending and practices came at the urging of City Council after Philadelphia was rocked by protests in the aftermath of the police-killing of George Floyd.So, why are there so few cops?Average Number of Officers on No Duty, Quarterly since FY 2009.

Jeff Cole Rebecca Rhynhart Philadelphia Department reports Citi

Wawa closing 2 Center City stores due to "safety and security challenges"

PHILADELPHIA - Wawa, a Philadelphia staple, announced Thursday it will close two Center City locations due to "continued safety and security challenges and business factors.""We are very sorry we can’t be there for our friends and neighbors at these two locations, but we continue to serve the community from our other nearby stores and our commitment to the greater region remains strong," a statement read in part. "Philadelphia is our hometown and that’s something that will never change."The chain remains hopeful it can repurpose the two defunct locations "to further benefit Philadelphia" and doubled down on its commitment to helping communities around the city grow." Since 2020, at least four Wawas have closed their doors and others have cut their hours. The announcement comes amid a rash of crimes at Wawa across the city, including a recent robbery where an employee was pepper sprayed at store in University City.

Jeff Cole Philadelphia city University city Center 2020 reports Citi

Delaware County man released from prison after 41 years due to newly discovered evidence

MEDIA, Pa. - A Delaware County man is going home after spending more than four decades in prison. Leroy Evans emerged from the Delaware County Court House to deafening cheers of his supporters and the warm embrace of his wife.Attorney General Josh Shapiro made the announcement Friday about his office's Conviction Integrity Section's relief of Leroy Evans. It was November of 1980 when Emily Leo, selling Avon products, was bludgeoned to death in Chester. Evans, 64, was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of Leo in 1981.

Jeff Cole Josh Shapiro state Delaware county Chester county Evans death Man Remark

Fanta Bility shooting: 3 Sharon Hill officers charged in child's shooting death due in court

SHARON HILL, Pa. - The three Sharon Hill police officers charged in the death of Fanta Bility, 8, are due in court Monday. Officers Devon Smith, Sean Dolan and Brian Devaney are each charged with 12 criminal counts of manslaughter and reckless endangerment in relation to the August 2021 shooting. The officers were also fired from the force following the fatal shooting. Authorities say Bility and her family were leaving a football game at Academy Park High School when a shooting between two men erupted in a crowd of people. Bullets from the shooting were fired in the direction of the three officers who were monitoring the crowd. RELATED HEADLINESThe officers reportedly returned fire, shooting toward a car they believed was involved in the initial gunfire, fatally striking Bility, officials say. Investigators later determined that the bullets fired toward the officers originated from an argument between 16-year-old Angelo "A.J." Ford and Hasein Strand, 19. The officers are set to arrive at the Delaware County courthouse in Media, Pennsylvania, to learn the fate of the charges against them. The mother of 8-year-old Fanta Bility spoke to FOX 29's Jeff Cole on the eve of the one-year anniversary of the deadly police shooting that claimed the life of her daughter. The family was leaving a Delaware County high school football game when a shooting erupted between two men and prompted nearby officers to return fire.

Jeff Cole Devon Smith Sean Dolan Brian Devaney state Pennsylvania state Delaware county Hill city Sharon, county Hill death reports Parke

Temple University's new president attempts to answer questions regarding student safety

NORTH PHILADELPHIA - It’s homecoming weekend at Temple University and families are taking part in all kinds of activities. But, what is being done to keep everyone safe is a concern for many.It’s a big weekend for the university, as it inaugurates its first Black president and welcomes families on campus for homecoming, but it seems violence is never far away."I knew violence would be part of the experience.

Jeff Cole Jason Wingard state Maryland president Citi McDonald’s

DA Krasner pushes back against impeachment movement lead by Pennsylvania Republicans

PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner is planning a gathering Wednesday with supporters by his side to push back against a State House vote holding him in contempt.The two-term Democrat stood with members of Philadelphia City Council Wednesday as they detailed plans to protect abortion rights. Krasner said he was "thrilled" to be the only man standing with the council members but was far less enthusiastic to talk about the contempt vote.In a lopsided vote, in the Republican controlled State House, the two-term Democratic D.A. was held in contempt for failing to respond to subpoenas from a special committee investigating whether to impeach him. According to the committee, Krasner declined to accept hand-delivered subpoenas and his office is not complying with an electronic copy accepted by his attorneys.When pressured for an answer on the contempt vote by FOX 29's Jeff Cole.

Jeff Cole Larry Krasner Amen Brown state Pennsylvania gatherings Man Citi

New victim comes forward as Drexel Hill man accused of sexual assault of a child appears in court

UPPER PROVIDENCE TWP. Pa. - Another victim has come forward weeks after learning a Delaware County former referee is accused of sexually abusing a child, as the Drexel Hill man appeared in court Thursday.William "Bill" Brown turned his face away from the camera as he arrived shackled at District Court.

Jeff Cole Williams state Delaware Man Provident

Residents set up encampment to protest possible sale of Philadelphia affordable housing townhomes

PHILADELPHIA - Residents of a Philadelphia affordable living townhome community are protesting its possible sale by setting up a tent encampment. The University City Townhomes were told by a Philadelphia judge Friday that their encampment must be disassembled by Monday morning. The residents, many of whom are Black and Hispanic, say they will not budge as the city scrambles to find suitable alternatives. "A lot of them are in difficult neighborhoods and some of them have holes in the ceilings and walls, I can’t believe they’re showing us stuff like that," Darlene Foreman told FOX 29's Jeff Cole. MORE HEADLINESThe property owner, IBID Associates, has been part of the federal housing assistance program for decades. They're now selling the land for redevelopment, something the neighborhood has seen a lot of recently. For others, the cost of living in Philadelphia represents another challenge.

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Atlantic City in the spolight as NAACP convenes its first in-person convention since 2020

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. - Preparations are underway for the NAACP’s national convention and, this year, it is to be held in Atlantic City, with thousands of people expected to attend. It is sure to bring a lot of business to town.It’s the first in-person gathering of the national NAACP convention since the pandemic hit and it comes at a time when the gaming Mecca of Atlantic City is working to rebuild its convention business.It’s trumpeted from nearly every light pole, the NAACP’s 113th convention in Atlantic City, under the theme "This is Power."MORE HEADLINES:"How do you interpret this is power?" asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole."I look at it as we got it; we just got to use it," answered Illinois member Linda Foster.They’ve come from the Central Illinois community of Bloomington-Normal, where they lead the local NAACP and arrive in AC to focus, in part, on gun violence tearing at communities of color."We think there needs to be efforts at gun control, so we can do what’s best for everyone.

Jeff Cole Usa state Illinois county Hall county Atlantic city Bloomington gatherings 2020 Citi

DA: Man killed in possible road rage shooting on Rt. 1 in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - Police are conducting a shooting investigation in Springfield, according to authorities. SKYFOX flew over the scene of South Rt. 1 and Meetinghouse Lane and police vehicles were spotted on scene. Springfield Police say initial reports indicate that the shooting may have stemmed from a road rage incident on State Road. Suspects fled the area, according to police, but the community is not in danger. The Delaware County District Attorney's Office tells FOX 29's Jeff Cole that a man, who is believed to be in his 70s, died from gunshot wounds. FOX 29 is working to learn additional details about the shooting and the victim. This is a developing story.

Jeff Cole state Pennsylvania state Delaware city Springfield, state Pennsylvania reports Man

'I'm going to miss him': Family heartbroken after teen killed by driver in stolen SUV

PHILADELPHIA - The heartbroken family of a Philadelphia teen who police say was fatally struck by a driver in a stolen SUV shared their grief hours after his death. James Sanders, 16, and a 21-year-old man were struck by a suspected impaired driver in the crosswalk of 44th and Parrish streets around 10 p.m. Wednesday. The driver, later identified by police as 27-year-old Zaire Semaj Adams, struck three unoccupied parked cars before coming to a stop.Tasha Sanders-Diggs, the boys mother, said she ran to her gravely injured son after he was struck. James Sanders, 16, was fatally struck by a driver in a stolen SUV Wednesday night in West Philadelphia.

Jeff Cole city Sander death Man Parke

Delaware weighing package of gun reform measures

DOVER, Del. - Delaware state senate appears poised to approve a package of gun reform measures amid heavy opposition from national gun rights groups. The bills, proposed after the massacres in Buffalo and Texas, would ban assault weapons, raise the age to purchase a long gun or rifle from 18 to 21 and expand background checks.Senate President David Sokola told FOX 29's Jeff Cole that he believes the measures would make Delaware streets safer."There are a number of places that have banned magazine capacities the data shows those places typically are safer," Sokloa said. Other bills would make gun dealers liable i they negligently sold a weapon that was later used in a crime. Meanwhile, Mitch Denham, the president of Delaware Gun Rights, called the effort, "disingenuous. He added, "more kids die in school bus accidents than get shot in schools, but they’re not putting seat belts in school busses."The bills are expected to pass and Governor John Carney is likely to sign them.

Jeff Cole John Carney county Buffalo state Delaware state Texas president bill Dover

'It's really sad': Investigation into Pottstown house explosion continues as victims identified

POTTSTOWN, Pa. - There are new details in the deadly Pottstown explosion. Five people are dead, while two are injured, in the Montgomery County community.From the air, the site of the explosion looks like a war zone, with rubble twisted and strewn for yards.Tanya Johnson lives a few doors away. "I hear a big bang, which I thought was thunder and I heard another bang and all the glasses in the house started to shake," she said.That was just after 8 Thursday night, when emergency crews arrived at the corner of Hale Street and Butler Avenue.

Jeff Cole Francine White Jeremiah White Nehemiah White Tristan White state Pennsylvania county Montgomery city Pottstown, state Pennsylvania Remark

Camden City schools consider making extra school security permanent

CAMDEN, N.J. - After the mass shooting in the southern Texas elementary school, New Jersey announced schools will have extra police presence. But, in Camden County, will the extra presence be permanent?Students flooded out of Camden High School in the afternoon, waving signs in solidarity and sorrow for the children and teachers massacred in Texas."Are you concerned about your safety?" FOX 29’s Jeff Cole asked."So, yes, because now it’s easier to get a gun anywhere, same as the 18-year-old in Texas," 9th grade student Damian Irizarry replied.RELATED HEADLINES:Some 400 students attend Camden High and there are many doors in the building, students say.That fear, largely brought on by the slaughter in Texas, is why officials gathered on the steps of the high school."Our young people and their families deserve to know and to be assured that their students are safe each and every day," Camden City Schools Superintendent Katrina McCombs stated.For the rest of the school year, Camden Police say they’re teaming up with the Camden County sheriffs to strengthen security outside more than a dozen school buildings in the city."We’re going to have two or three officers at every school patrolling and walking beats, as well," Chief of Police Gabriel Rodriguez said.It’s a heavy lift in a city struggling with grinding poverty, but the chief says he’ll have at least one cop outside all schools when students and staff are there."Could your officers stop an 18-year-old with an AK-15?" Cole asked."I’m sure they can.

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Pennsylvania candidates offer little consensus on gun measures

PHILADELPHIA - The shooting in Texas is adding fuel to the fire raging over Pennsylvania’s gun laws, at time when campaigns for statewide office are being waged and children are being killed by guns.Adam Garber, the head of the anti-gun violence group, CeaseFirePa, said, "The number one killer of children in Pennsylvania is already guns. We should pay attention to the daily violence."Garber believes two reforms would save lives in the Commonwealth.

Jeff Cole Mehmet Oz Josh Shapiro John Fetterman Usa state Pennsylvania state Texas Twitter prevention reports

SWAT team responds to barricade in Chester involving alleged fatal shooting suspect

Members of SWAT in Chester, Pa. where authorities believe a shooting suspect is barricaded inside. CHESTER, Pa. - SWAT team members are responding to a report of a barricaded person in Chester on Wednesday. Authorities believe the person barricaded inside the apartment on Pennell Street was involved in a shooting earlier in the day. The shooting happened at a market on the 1100 block of W 3rd Street, authorities say. A spokesperson from the Delaware County District Attorney's Office confirmed the shooting was fatal, but no additional details were released.

Jeff Cole state Pennsylvania state Delaware county Chester BLOCK reports

Roe V. Wade: Locals react to Supreme Court draft opinion that seeks to overturn landmark abortion ruling

PHILADELPHIA - Local leaders and concerned residents in Pennsylvania and New Jersey reacted Tuesday to an unprecedented Supreme Court draft opinion that aims to overturn Roe V. Wade abortion rights. The national uproar started Monday night when Politico reported a leaked draft opinion on the landmark Roe V. Wade and Casey decisions written by Justice Samuel Alito.

Jeff Cole Justice Samuel Alito state Pennsylvania state New Jersey state Texas gatherings Caseys Landmark

Ukrainian man, living in Chester County, hails new aid package; wishes it was already approved

CHESTER SPRINGS, Pa. - The White House proposes a massive aid package for Ukraine. President Biden is pushing Congress to approve $33 billion in aid, which would go toward keeping the Ukrainian military stocked with weapons and ammunition, as well as supplemental funding for critical security, economic and humanitarian assistance.A Chester County man, born in Ukraine, is welcoming the billions of dollars in support the President wants to provide his home country.

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Ukrainian refugees taken in by Philadelphia church share harrowing story of escape from war-torn homeland

PHILADELPHIA - A Ukrainian cathedral in Northern Liberties is offering sanctuary to two women who fled their war-torn homeland of Ukraine as the Russian invasion continues. Alla Pukhtetska and Veronika Matviienko arrived at the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral Wednesday night after being picked up by Vice President and Choir Director Susan Guz, and Bishop Lukeat JFK Airport. They will live in the rectory of the church and are likely to be joined by others as church member have raised $20,000 to help refugees.The women lived in Kiev and worked together in a cathedral there. They told FOX 29's Jeff Cole that they feared they would be killed in the bombardment of the city."I was afraid not to have time to escape," Pukhtetska said.

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Philadelphia Schools Superintendent search continues with Illinois educator meeting students

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA - The search for the next head of Philadelphia public schools continues, as the school community gets a chance to learn more about candidate number two, a leader on the Illinois State Board of Education.Krish Mohip hustles into the School District building in the early afternoon for a meeting. The Chicago educator says his view of education is simple."My belief is every child can learn.

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Philadelphia mask mandate: City drops mask requirements in most indoor settings

PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia officials dropped the city's mask mandate for indoor spaces Wednesday morning after moving the city to the All Clear COVID-19 tier. FOX 29's Jeff Cole first broke the news on Twitter. The announcement came ahead of the city's COVID-19 briefing, which will be the last one, according to Health Commissioner Dr.

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ATF lacks funding to crack down on ongoing gun violence crisis, advocacy group says

PHILADELPHIA - President Biden's visit to New York on Thursday was intended to heal and talk about gun violence and trafficking that has led to mayhem in the city.Officials say Philadelphia is obviously dealing with the same problems. Now the question remains whether the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is up to the work of cutting gun violence in the city.Simone Rodgers, 15, lost her life in a spray of gunfire in a city park last summer.Her grieving mother fears gun violence will strike again."My children are good kids. Everybody's are good kids.

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Exclusive: Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon recalls armed carjacking near FDR Park

PHILADELPHIA - Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon said she feared for her life when a pair of armed carjackers partially blocked her vehicle and demanded her keys Wednesday afternoon in Philadelphia.In an exclusive interview with FOX 29's Jeff Cole, the congresswoman said she had just got back to her car after a "lovely" walk through FDR Park with other elected officials to when the robbery happened. "There were a lot of families and people with dogs out and about, but when I went to get into my car to leave from the parking lot a car pulled up and a couple people with guns got out and demanded my keys from me and my staffer," Scanlon recalled. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon became the victim of a carjacking at FDR Park in South Philadelphia

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Most firearms used in Philadelphia homicides come from outside the city, ATF says

PHILADELPHIA - Where are all of the illegal guns used in Philadelphia crimes coming from? Can officials do more to keep them off of our streets? FOX 29's Jeff Cole recently sat down with ATF Special Agent in Charge Matthew Varisco and found out that the issue is much more complicated than many people believe.It's also bigger than just Philadelphia, where the city has seen well over 500 homicides in 2021. "That strikes us here at the ATF very hard, because our primary mission is to reduce firearm violence in the city of Philadelphia and throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," Varsico said. As the Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia office of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, Varisco's job is to keep firearms out of the wrong

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Jury selected in Johnny Doc, Bobby Henon bribery trial

PHILADELPHIA - Powerful Philadelphia labor leader Johnny "Doc" Dougherty went on trial Monday in a City Hall corruption case that accuses him of City Councilman Bobby Henon on the union payroll to push his agenda.Dougherty, 61, who has steered more than $30 million in union funds to political candidates, faces a later extortion trial over other union activities. He expressed confidence that he would clear his name as he arrived for jury selection Monday at the federal courthouse."I have had zero crimes," Dougherty told FOX 29’s Jeff Cole outside the courthouse, making a zero with his hand for emphasis.

Jeff Cole Johnny Doc Bobby Henon county Hall hospital 2020 reports

4 killed in storm-related incidents in Montgomery and Bucks counties, including woman hit by tree

NORRISTOWN, Pa. - Officials say they are investigating at least four storm-related deaths Thursday after remnants of Ida brought powerful storms, flooding, and a number of tornadoes to the area Wednesday. The death toll from the storm has now risen to four Montgomery County residents. Three fatalities are currently under investigation by the Montgomery County coroner and a fourth Montgomery County resident died in Bucks County.FOX 29’s Jeff Cole reports one of the fatalities occurred in an Upper Dublin neighborhood where dozens of trees had been knocked down during the storm. Neighbors say one of those trees fell through the roof of a home, fatally striking a woman on the second floor of her home.

Jeff Cole county Bucks county Montgomery city Dublin city Montgomery death

EF-2 tornado with peak winds up to 130 mph confirmed in Upper Dublin Twp.

UPPER DUBLIN TWP., Pa. - The National Weather Service confirmed that an EF-2 tornado with estimated peak winds up to 130 mph touched down in Fort Washington, Upper Dublin Township on Wednesday.The weather service says the tornado traveled from Upper Dublin to Horsham Township.

Jeff Cole Washington county Montgomery city Dublin death travelers

'I needed to get out'; Delaware County teacher helps former student and family out of Afghanistan

SWARTHMORE, Pa. - The last remaining U.S. troops have left Afghanistan after 20 years.Meanwhile, a Delaware County teacher is being credited with helping get a former student and his family safely out of Afghanistan, using the power of social media."Kabul wasn’t supposed to fall.

Jeff Cole state Pennsylvania state Delaware Afghanistan city Kabul information Department

Afghan refugees arrive at Philadelphia International Airport

PHILADELPHIA - At least one planeload of Afghan refugees who were rescued from an increasingly chaotic U.S.-led evacuation effort in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan has landed at the Philadelphia International Airport, FOX 29 has learned. About 200-300 evacuees are expected will arrive at the airport early Saturday morning for processing before they are taken to a secure facility in Camden, New Jersey, a source told FOX 29's Jeff Cole. More planes are expected to land throughout the day, but the total is unknown at this time.RELATED HEADLINES:A spokesperson on Thursday said Philadelphia International Airport and Dulles International Airport in Virginia are the first two airports to welcome refugees.

Jeff Cole state New Jersey state Virginia county Camden Afghanistan Government evacuation donates

Philadelphia violence continues unabated as officials seek ways to curb it

CENTER CITY - Philadelphia’s homicide rate continues to soar. The latest victims were two teens, killed in two separate incidents.

Jeff Cole city Center BLOCK

Abington Twp. red light cameras not a deterrent to speeding and reckless drivers, police say

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, Pa. - In Montgomery County, Abington Township police say they’re seeing more reckless driving, during the pandemic and that is despite red light cameras at dangerous intersections.From a birds-eye view, Montgomery County’s Abington Township is a mix of quiet suburban streets laced with bustling commercials roadways.Its population of 55,000 on Philadelphia’s northern fringe is on the move."What’s it like out here? What’s the traffic like?" FOX 29’s Jeff Cole asked."Fast," replied Konte Brown.Just ask Brown, wrangling a sign on Old York Road.Advertisement"On point though, I watch myself near the curb and all. People come a little close.

Jeff Cole county Montgomery virus death pandemic

'No neighborhood that's safe from this,' flow of illegal guns in Montco priority 1 for leaders

NORRISTOWN, Pa. - A look at the news any day will confirm a serious gun problem in the area. There appear to be way too many illegal guns on the streets.

Jeff Cole city Norristown hospital 2020 prevention

Camden Mayor Frank Moran stepping down 9 months before term ends

CAMDEN, N.J. - Mayor Frank Moran is stepping down nine months before his first term ends. Camden has seen big companies move to town and its image improve under Moran. From a city pool operator, rising to mayor, and now walking away on April 30."Mayor, why are you leaving?" FOX 29’s Jeff Cole asked.

Jeff Cole Usa Puerto Rico state New Jersey county Camden virus vaccine Department

'We have no vaccine to give': Montco struggles with obtaining enough COVID vaccine

BLUE BELL, Pa. - Like many locales across the country, Montgomery County is struggling to obtain enough COVID-19 doses. When it comes to doses of the vaccine - demand outstrips the supply.29-year-old Jordan Gorski was only too happy to offer his shoulder at one of.

Jeff Cole state Pennsylvania county Montgomery Jordan county Bell covid-19 vaccine patient

No amount of snow could stop folks from lining up for the COVID vaccine in North Philly

NORTH PHILADELPHIA - The snow was not stopping folks from trying to get a COVID-19 vaccine and the weather was not stopping the Black Doctors Consortium from getting shots into arms at the Liacouras Center.A stubborn nor’easter was no match for those who lined up on foot and by vehicle.The Black Doctors Consortium had 1,000 doses of life-saving vaccine and they were in demand."Hoping to get it today, think you have a chance?" asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole."I hope so.

Jeff Cole city Germantown covid-19 vaccine doctor

Lehigh Valley schools closing ahead of holidays based on coronavirus spike

EMMAUS, Pa. - Some Lehigh Valley high schools have announced they will close due to a spike in COVID-19 cases.Parkland High School sits on a sprawling campus in Allentown and serves students from its western neighborhoods and three townships.32,000 students attend, but not for the next few days.“They’ve closed for a week, is that an overreaction?” asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole.“Oh no. If I had a child there, I would not think it’s an overreaction,” Sandra Tapler stated.In a post to the school’s website, the superintendent reports four individuals in the building from late October to early in November have tested positive for COVID-19.

Jeff Cole city Sandra city Allentown covid-19 Coronavirus

Negotiations continue with advocates for the homeless and Philadelphia officials

PHILADELPHIA - After months of people living in tents along the Parkway and Ridge Avenue, could more permanent housing be in their futures? Is it possible city officials and advocates for the homeless encampment reached a deal?Monthly, Cookie Bundy sweeps along the 2900 block of Westmont Street in Strawberry Mansion.“For the kids, I come out and clean up,” Bundy said.“Do this on your own?” asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole.“Yes sir,” Bundy replied.On the narrow block sit boarded homes that encampment organizers say the Philadelphia Housing Authority has offered as possible housing for the homeless now living in tents at two sites in the city.AdvertisementBut, there’s a problem.“If the city and the PHA want to show us units that are falling apart,

Jeff Cole

Frustration mounts as delays in trash pickup across Philadelphia continue

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA - Trash, plus heat equals a recipe for disaster.It’s an issue many people across Philadelphia are dealing with.Trash pickup along 63rd and Greenway in Southwest Philadelphia is late in the week, but it’s Monday and the garbage, rotting in the sun and drawing flies, sits.“When is trash day here?” asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole.“It’s Thursday!” exclaimed Sarah Freedman.“Thursday’s trash day?” asked Cole.Advertisement“And, it’s Monday. Nobody came and that’s not right,” Freedman remarked.Ripped trash bags line the sidewalk and litter clutters the street.Willie Simon, struggling with asthma, says the trash is a banquet for varmints.“Nasty.

Jeff Cole covid-19 pandemic infection Department Coronavirus

Ex-priest pleads guilty to child sex abuse charges in Bucks County courthouse

DOYLESTOWN, Penn. - An ex-priest accused of sexually abusing boys in the area pleads guilty in connection with those crimes.“Do you have any comment at all? Why plead guilty?” asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole.“No comment,” was Francis Trauger’s reply.Suspended as a priest in 2003 and kicked out two years later, Trauger, now living in Brooklyn, New York, came to admit guilt.“I was 12-years-old, so, today I represent that 12-year-old,” Mike McDonnell stated.McDonnell, a leader of a Philadelphia group of survivors of priest abuse known as SNAP, says Trauger abused him when he served as a priest in a Montgomery County church.AdvertisementMcDonnell’s allegations are too old for criminal prosecution.“It certainly will send a message that this will not be

Jeff Cole state New York state Pennsylvania county Bucks county Montgomery city Brooklyn, state New York city Doylestown, state Pennsylvania

City contractor out of job after writing letter calling for release of arson suspect, officials say

PHILADELPHIA - City officials have confirmed that a Philadelphia Health Department contractor wrote a letter in support of a woman charged with setting two police cars on fire while claiming to be an authorized representative of the department.The city says they have now terminated the contractor, who has not been identified, claiming they "did not have authorization to represent the Department in this manner."Sources tell FOX 29's Jeff Cole the contractor wrote a letter on health department letterhead calling for Lore-Elizabeth Blumenthal's release from jail after she was ordered to be held without bail.Sources say the letter included concerns about COVID-19. Blumenthal is accused of torching a police cruiser and a sport utility vehicle

Jeff Cole covid-19 Department

AP journalist punched while walking with police commissioner

FOX 29's Jeff Cole reports.

Jeff Cole Jim Kenney hospital death Department

United States	Cases: 46 252 513 Deaths: 750 423 Recovered: 0
India	Cases: 34 321 025 Deaths: 459 652 Recovered: 0
Brazil	Cases: 21 835 785 Deaths: 608 235 Recovered: 0
United Kingdom	Cases: 9 215 683 Deaths: 141 607 Recovered: 0
Russia	Cases: 8 494 589 Deaths: 237 619 Recovered: 0