8/29/2025

IRONWOOD - A former Ironwood resident and a Wisconsin man were arrested for a methamphetamine distribution scheme in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. GIANT began investigating Delani Cain Leyva, 56, now a Wisconsin resident with prior drug convictions, in May 2025 for bringing meth into Wisconsin and the U.P. On July 25, investigators found Leyva and and Erick J. Schuette, 52, in Gogebic County with an ounce of packaged methamphetamine, packaging, concealment items, and money. Leyva is being held on a $300,000 bond, charged with conspiracy to deliver meth, possession with intent to deliver, possession near a park, and maintaining a drug house. Schuette was released on a $100,000 bond, and is facing charges of conspiracy to deliver meth, possession with intent to deliver, possession near a park, and possession of meth. Iron County, Wisconsin, has also authorized charges against Leyva.

8/29/2025

WESTERN U.P. - Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for Ontonagon and Houghton Counties.  Following a severe rainstorm that inundated the area with up to 4 inches of rain on July 23 causing flash flooding, damaging roads, culverts, and storm sewers. Preliminary damage in Houghton County exceeds $1 million, and Ontonagon County also experienced significant road damage. State officials recognized the need for additional state assistance, a move welcomed by State Sen. Ed McBroom. The declaration will allow for state resources and disaster relief funds to be used to help the area recover.

8/29/2025

MARINETTE - A 21-year-old man is now formally charged in the drowning death of a 13-year-old boy in Marinette.  Yesterday a judge set $500,000 cash bond for Tylor Robert Birch. Birch is being charged with second-degree reckless homicide for the death of 13-year-old Jakob Bowerman.  On August 20, officers, EMS, and the Marinette Fire Department responded to a distress call at Menekaunee Harbor Boat Launch in Marinette. Jakob was found unresponsive in the water and died.  According to the criminal complaint, Birch and another teen, identified as P.C. in the complaint, initially claimed Jakob voluntarily jumped into the water along with them.  Jakob’s mother stated the 13-year-old was bullied by the boys and was afraid of water and was either thrown or pushed in.  Birch’s next court hearing is scheduled for September 22.