LISBON — A Boardman area contractor sentenced to 90 days in jail as part of his three years of community control for three counts of theft was denied early release from lockup.

John Bartos, 41, Youngstown, had a motion for early release filed by his attorney and also submitted a letter to Columbiana County Common Pleas Court Judge Scott Washam.

Washam found that the jail term accomplished the purpose of felony sentencing to protect the public and punish the defendant.

He also found the defendant is being rehabilitated, writing in his ruling that “through his letter to me it is evident the defendant now fully understands and regrets the wrongfulness of his actions in defrauding so many innocent people who trusted him and his company and the consequences of his choices, including the impact on his family.”

Bartos had been accused of taking money from three clients and failing to do the work in Columbiana County. He also faced similar charges in other counties.

Also in Common Pleas Court:

— Julie Carl-Picklesimer, 51, Lisbon Street, East Liverpool, pleaded guilty to two separate indictments for third-degree felony failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer for fleeing from police attempting traffic stops on Feb. 2 in East Liverpool and on Oct. 20, 2023 in East Liverpool. Sentencing was set for Aug. 29.