Sexual Assault Charges, Burglaries, and School Hirings Were Top February News

Burglaries, sexual assault charges, and fires were some of the subjects from the top stories of the month.

Here is a recap of the top stories from February.

Prosecutor: Man Sexually Assaulted 13-Year-Old Boy

James Perna was charged with aggravated sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child for alleged sexual contact with a 13-year-old boy in 2000.

Firefighters Extinguish Fire at Adhesive Manufacturing Plant

All five fire companies battled a blaze at Clifton Adhesives off of Route 23 South. The fire was put out in a half hour. One person was taken to the hospital with burned hands.

Police Investigate Burglaries

Jewelry was reportedly taken from three Wayne homes during burglaries earlier this month. Electronics were taken from some of the homes as well. Authorities are investigating the incidents.

A man was arrested at the Willowbrook Mall or attempting to meet a minor for sex following an online email exchange, the FBI said.

Eric Fantau was arrested in the mall parking lot for allegedly attempting to meet a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexually explicit conduct, the FBI said.

Professor Tapped to Run for Mayor

Democrats nominated Francine Del Vecchio to run for mayor in the General Election this year. Del Vecchio will run on a platform of cutting spending, bringing businesses back into town and preventing future tax increases.

Ortiz Fills Vacant Board Seat

The Board of Education selected Rogger Ortiz to fill a vacant spot on the board a special meeting.

Next Wayne Hills Football Coach Hired

Wayne Demikoff was hired as the next head coach of the Wayne Hills football team. He has served as the team’s defensive coordinator for many years.

Resident Named First Ellen Underwear Model

Resident Mike Wolfinger was named the first Ellen underwear model on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show”.

— Have a question or news tip? Contact editor Daniel Hubbard at Daniel.Hubbard@patch.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For news straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.