Bucks County Daily Round-Up – May 6, 2025
Michigan Man Sentenced in Brutal Lower Southampton Bookstore Robbery
A Bucks County judge has sentenced a Michigan man to state prison for his role in a violent 2022 robbery that left a local business owner battered and traumatized. Caleb Simpson, 36, of Clarklake, Michigan, was handed a 10½ to 25-year prison term by Judge Stephen A. Corr following a March guilty plea to robbery, conspiracy, and aggravated assault. The attack took place at Comic Collection, a beloved bookstore in Feasterville, where Simpson and accomplice Zackery Tucker, 23, tied up and savagely beat owner David Schwartz using brass knuckles. Schwartz testified in court, describing the lasting physical and emotional scars. Tucker was sentenced in March to five to twelve years for his part in the robbery. The assault and sentencing highlight ongoing concerns about violent crime reaching into suburban business communities.
Bristol Township Schools Strengthen Security and Facilities
In a bid to bolster safety and infrastructure, the Bristol Township School District is making notable improvements at Harry S. Truman High School. Director of Operations and Maintenance Michael Cox told the school board that new front doors and vestibules are now in place, along with designated student and visitor entry points. Security access has been upgraded with new keypads and swipe systems. Outside, crews repaired a faulty underground line to restore the softball scoreboard and added new batting cages—enhancements that aim to support both safety and student experience. The changes come amid increasing community focus on school security measures across the county.
Bensalem Officer Earns Top Honor for Crime-Fighting Excellence
Bensalem Township has named Officer Christian Martinka as its 2024 Police Officer of the Year. In a ceremony recognizing law enforcement excellence, Public Safety Director Bill McVey commended Martinka for a year of standout service that included 416 traffic stops, 74 criminal arrests, and the seizure of five illegal firearms. Martinka also received seven commendations in 2024 alone. His dedication, McVey noted, exemplifies the proactive policing that Bensalem residents expect and deserve.
