Wyoming County man sentenced to LCCF for groping teen girl

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Grant aids renovations, new programs at Luzerne County Community College

<p>WILKES-BARRE &#8212; An Ashley man has admitted to attempting to steal meth-making materials two years ago.</p><p>John Judson Stribaugh, 44, pleaded guilty Wednesday in Luzerne County Court to two counts of possessing precursor chemicals with the intent to manufacture red phosphorous and iodine &#8212; ingredients in the manufacture of methamphetamine, according to court documents.</p><p>He also admitted to one count of retail theft and one count of default in required appearance for failing to appear at a court proceeding, court papers say.</p><p>The theft count and the charges related to manufacturing methamphetamine stem from an October 2012 incident in which police say Stribaugh was caught trying to steal two bottles of iodine, valued at $2.78, from Gerrity&#8217;s Supermarket in West Pittston.</p><p>According to a criminal complaint, Stribaugh purchased a two-liter bottle of soda and a box of 50 matchbooks, but concealed the iodine. A search of Stribaugh&#8217;s vehicle later revealed more matchbooks, iodine and other materials and substances used to cook meth.</p><p>Judge Tina Polachek Gartley scheduled Stribaugh&#8217;s sentencing for Jan. 15, court papers say.</p><div class="metaInfo"><bylineMeta><p>By James O&#8217;Malley</p><p>jomalley@www.timesleader.com</p></bylineMeta></div><div class="metaInfo"><shirttailMeta><p>Reach James O&#8217;Malley at 570-991-6390 or on Twitter @TL_omalley.</p></shirttailMeta></div>

Ashley man admits to meth-related charges