April 5, 2025, Top Headlines of the Week
Here are some stories you may have missed in BeaconJournal.com and the Akron Beacon Journal newspaper.
The 62-year-old Canton man was sentenced to life in prison Monday on a possible parole 35 years later for repeated rape of a child between the ages of four and 12.
A news release from the Summit County Prosecutor’s office said ju judges found Charles Link in March committed rape, first-degree felony, eight counts of serious sexual imposed and third-degree felony in March.
He is designated as a Tier 3 sex offender and requires the local sheriff to register for the rest of his life every 90 days after being released from prison.
“I want to advance the incredible courage of the survivors. Their courage ensured that Link was faced with the consequences of his crimes, making Summit County safer,” Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovic said in a news release. “Crimes against children are particularly despicable. I will always fight to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Summit County Common Plea Judge Joy Marek Oldfield took the lead on the case. Attorney Charles Harp represented Link.
Bryce Buyakie covers Beacon Journal’s courts and public safety. He can be contacted by email via bbayakie @gannett.com or X, formerly known as Twitter @bryce_buyakie.