By Becky Polaski
Daily Press Staff

    Bob Cogley of the Pennsylvania State Police attended the Jay Township Supervisors meeting on Thursday night at the Jay Township Municipal Building.

Cogley transferred to the Ridgway barracks in 1987 and has been the Supervisor of the Criminal Investigation Unit for the past nine years. He is also currently acting as the Station Commander until a replacement can be found.

    Over the past eight weeks Cogley stated that there have only been nine reported instances of burglaries, thefts and criminal mischief within Jay Township, though one of those was fairly significant.

    "An older gentleman in Force who had kept money in his house, a large sum of money, had the money stolen from his residence," said Cogley.

    While some leads are currently being looked into, Cogley requested that anyone with any information come forward.

    The Supervisors also asked Cogley about illegal drug use in the area and whether or not any meth labs had been located recently.

    Cogley stated that there have been several reports of meth labs in the area over the years, but none had been substantiated.

    "As far as meth labs go, about two years ago the Tionesta area was a big hotspot," explained Cogley. "Most of them have been cleaned up. I don't know of any for sure here."

    "There is a drug problem in Elk County," added Cogley.

    Noting that everyone has been working very hard on area drug issues, Cogley noted that he did not know if it would ever be cured one hundred percent, but stated that individuals were trying.

    One of the most important things in fighting the area drug problem is having the support of the people. Cogley explained that individuals needed to provide tips, support investigations, and be willing to testify.