📣 Houlahan Votes to Censure | 🔌Chesco Copper Theft Ring | 🚖 Uber Driver Accused of Groping Passenger

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

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🪀 Houlahan Defends Vote to Censure Rep. Al Green

🪫 Power Outages, Fires Linked to Copper Theft Scheme

🚕 WC Uber Driver Accused of Groping Passenger During Ride

👨‍🚒 Peter Huf Sworn In as Coatesville’s New Fire Chief

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Houlahan Defends Vote to Censure Rep. Al Green, Sides with GOP

WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Chrissy Houlahan was among ten Democrats who joined Republicans in voting to censure Texas Democrat Al Green for his actions during President Donald Trump’s congressional address. The vote, which passed 224 to 198, was framed as an effort to uphold House rules, though it sparked backlash from many in Houlahan’s party. Green was required to stand in the well of the chamber as Speaker Mike Johnson read the censure resolution, while Democratic colleagues protested in solidarity. In an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer Houlahan expressed frustration over what she called a double standard, noting that Republican lawmakers had engaged in similar behavior without repercussions.

Power Outages, Fires Linked to Copper Theft Scheme in Chester County

WEST CHESTER, PA — For years, unexplained power outages and equipment failures plagued parts of Chester County. Authorities now say the cause was not just aging infrastructure, but an organized ring of copper thieves who stole millions of dollars' worth of wiring from decommissioned power lines.

The thefts, which occurred between 2021 and 2024, targeted lines originating from the Crombly Substation in Phoenixville. The group, led by Jonathan Ryan Jackson, stripped copper from power lines across several townships, cutting down utility poles and selling the stolen metal for profit. The damage, estimated between $2 million and $4 million, resulted in electrical disruptions and even fires, including one in West Whiteland that nearly reached residential homes.

The case gained traction in late 2022 when authorities began investigating a fire linked to missing power lines. Surveillance and police efforts eventually led to Jackson’s arrest, along with ten others accused of participating in the scheme. Jackson pleaded guilty in January and was sentenced to seven-to-14 years in prison. Others involved have either pleaded guilty, received probation, or are awaiting trial.

This week, a 44-year-old Montgomery County maintenance worker received a five-year probation sentence for his role in the operation. Though prosecutors acknowledged his limited involvement, they emphasized that all members share responsibility for the financial impact of the thefts.

Officials warn that while this ring has been dismantled, metal theft continues to pose challenges for utilities and municipalities. Decommissioned power lines, even when inactive, remain vital for emergency use, making their loss both costly and dangerous.

West Chester Uber Driver Accused of Groping Passenger During Ride

WEST CHESTER, PA — A West Chester Uber driver has been charged with indecent assault after allegedly groping a female passenger during a ride in Whitpain Township. Authorities say 61-year-old Robert Travers Corcoran picked up the woman and her friend from a bar, then asked her to sit in the front seat after dropping off the friend. He allegedly touched her inappropriately and made explicit remarks before trying to kiss her when they arrived at her home. The victim reported the incident, leading to Corcoran’s arrest. He has been released on bail and faces up to two years in prison if convicted.

Peter Huf Sworn In as Coatesville’s New Fire Chief

COATESVILLE, PA — Peter Huf has been sworn in as Coatesville’s new fire chief following a unanimous city council approval. With nearly 40 years of experience, including a decade as Upper Darby’s Deputy Fire Chief, Huf brings extensive leadership and training credentials to the role. He will oversee both career and volunteer firefighters while strengthening the department’s partnership with Washington Hose Company. Recognized for his service and expertise, Huf has pledged to build strong community relationships and enhance the city’s emergency response efforts.

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