Facebook helps Westmoreland Co. sheriff nab 4 most wanted fugitives in 1 week

WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Pa. — The Westmoreland County sheriff's office said Facebook helped it nab four most wanted fugitives in the past week.

Officials said tips sent to their page played an integral part in the fugitives' arrests.

Deputies said they arrested Eugene Askey, who was wanted in six different court cases for bad checks, home improvement fraud, deceptive business practices, theft by deception and three domestic relations warrants.

Police said Adam Lynch, wanted for aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, harassment, burglary, three counts of forgery, three counts of theft by deception, three counts of receiving stolen property and theft by unlawful taking, was arrested on Wednesday.

Joseph Patterson, who has been wanted since Sept. 24, 2009, was arrested in Ohio by the US Marshal’s Service, and was wanted for two counts of arson, reckless burning or exploding and six counts of recklessly endangering another person.

Deputies also arrested Matthew Hanan, who was wanted in three different court cases, officials said. Hanan is facing aggravated assault, use or possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI and resisting arrest.

“I want to thank those who are interacting with our Facebook page.  These last seven days have proven that, with a collaborative effort from law enforcement and the public, we can all make a difference in keeping Westmoreland County a safer place to live and work,” said Sheriff Jonathan Held.

WPXI