YOUNG TOWNSHIP – A 70-year-old Punxsutawney woman, Lana S. Laughbaum, who has been accused of wrongfully entering into timbering contracts, is facing a felony theft charge in a fifth case.
According to Punxsutawney-based state police, on Dec. 13, 2017, Laughbaum entered into a timbering contract with Blose Logging Inc. of Punxsutawney. The business paid $7,500 to Laughbaum to perform timbering work on her land.
Blose Logging was subsequently advised that there was a lien placed on Laughbaum’s land on Jan. 7, 2016. She was banned from selling anymore timber until it was satisfied.
The lien was still in effect on the date of the contract agreement, and Laughbaum entered into it while allegedly knowing she didn’t have the right to do so.
On Friday, Laughbaum was charged with a felony count of theft by deception. She was initially charged in three separate cases Monday and a fourth case was filed Wednesday.
State police say the investigation is still ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to call 814-938-0510.
