We’ve been telling you about a string of disturbing trespassing incidents at St. Mary’s and Holy Redeemer churches—and now, thanks to a message from Portsmouth Police Deputy Chief Jason Hedrick, we know exactly who keeps coming back.
According to Hedrick, John Holman Jr., a man with a troubled past and a criminal record in Florida, has repeatedly shown up at locations where children are present, including Portsmouth City Schools, Notre Dame Schools, several churches, and even the Southern Ohio Museum’s Children’s Museum. Despite multiple no-trespass orders and at least one recent arrest, Holman continues to pop up at sensitive locations.
“He’s going to be a problem,” Hedrick warned in a public safety message sent to local organizations. “He came here from Florida and has been going to places where children are present… I’m worried he’s going to try to grab a kid.”
Wandering Near School Kids — Again
The latest incident happened Wednesday at Holy Redeemer Church, when officers were called out for yet another trespassing report. According to Hedrick’s email, Holman was spotted near the Welcome Center on Front Street during a large school field trip. Moments later, he was found parked in a church parking lot across from a city school—despite being banned from multiple locations for exactly this kind of behavior.
Disturbing History
Holman, reportedly in his 60s, has a criminal background in Florida and a tragic personal story. Police say they spoke to his former stepdaughter, who painted a picture of a once-successful businessman and veteran who spiraled after his wife’s death in 2016.
“He went crazy when his mom died,” the woman told police. “He drank heavily, said inappropriate things, and even burned down a house he was renting during a dispute with a landlord.”
She also said Holman played football for Ohio State University and is originally from Ohio, with family still in the area. The stepdaughter wasn’t sure if he suffers from bipolar disorder but acknowledged his behavior has been increasingly erratic.
Arrested—But Released
Holman was arrested on May 18 for criminal trespassing. He appeared in court the next day and was released on his own recognizance. He’s currently scheduled to appear in court again on June 24.
In the meantime, parents, schools, and local organizations remain on high alert.
What You Can Do
Portsmouth Police encourage the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially around schools, playgrounds, or churches.
- Always call 911 if you see someone acting suspicious near children or restricted areas.
- Make sure your organization has active no-trespass orders in place and communicates with local law enforcement.
- Talk to your kids about stranger danger in age-appropriate ways.
“He isn’t all there,” Hedrick wrote. “But his focus is children, and that’s what worries us.”
Authorities say they’re continuing to monitor Holman’s activities, but until the courts take further action, he remains a looming concern in the community.
