YOUNG TOWNSHIP – A 70-year-old Punxsutawney woman, Lana S. Laughbaum, has been accused of felony theft in three, different cases for wrongfully entering into timbering contracts.
In December of 2017, Laughbaum entered into contracts with Hickory Hill Hardwoods LLC and D&F Lumber & Lodging, both of Punxsutawney, and Penn Forest Products Unlimited of Butler.
According to state police, Hickory Hill Hardwoods paid Laughbaum $20,000 for timbering on her land. D&F Lumber & Lodging and Penn Forest Products Unlimited paid her $7,500 and $7,000, respectively.
The businesses were subsequently notified that there was a lien placed on Laughbaum’s land Jan. 7, 2016, which banned her from selling any more timber until it was satisfied.
Laughbaum allegedly entered into the timbering contracts when the lien was still in effect and knowing she didn’t have the right to do so.
Laughbaum is currently facing one count of felony theft by deception in each case. State police say the investigation is open pending further investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the state police at Punxsutawney at 814-938-0510.
