PORTSMOUTH – Scioto County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a homeless man in connection with the alleged murder of Wheelersburg resident Raymond Montovan.

Wednesday, July 18, 2001

PORTSMOUTH – Scioto County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a homeless man in connection with the alleged murder of Wheelersburg resident Raymond Montovan.

According to Scioto County Sheriff Marty V. Donini, James E. Digman, 23, has been charged in the aggravated murder of Montovan, 80, of Hayport Road. The alleged murder occurred Saturday, July 7.

According to the sheriff’s department, detectives were able to use computer-generated sketches to compose photos of the suspect based on informant observations.

"Detective Sergeant David Hall was able to use computer generated composite sketches to compose a remarkably similar resemblance to a man that was identified by an informant. Our detectives were able to locate him and eventually make the arrest," Donini said. "The likeness was shown to a few people in the area of the crime that we thought may be able to assist us in this investigation.

"After talking to Sgt. Hall, the man gave us the information we needed to be able to file charges" the sheriff said.

Digman was also charged with aggravated robbery in the same incident.

On Saturday evening, police estimate, between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m., Digman came upon the Montovan property, carrying a weapon, and robbed Mr. Montovan of an undetermined amount of cash.

Montovan was

sitting outside in his yard at the time of the attack. The warrant alleges

that Digman struck the 80- year-old Wheelersburg man in the head with a

hammer, causing blunt trauma which lead to his death.

Digman had earlier in the evening, approached an woman at a nearby ATM machine, but was fought off by the intended victim. He also faces an additional charge of robbery in that incident. Both charges are felonies in the first degree.

Digman faces the charges today in Portsmouth Municipal Court. Digman is being held in the Scioto County Jail without bond pending the hearing.