Police are looking for Jason Dalton, 25, on multiple charges of rape and incest that happened between March and June of 2013. He pleaded guilty to over 22 counts of sodomy, rape, and incest. Two female victims were aged 12 and 15.  He was originally indicted on 24 different sex crime charges, then 58 additional charges were added to the list. Brownsville Police was assisted in the case by Homeland Security, Immigration Customs  Enforcement, and the National Park Service. 

Brownsville Police Chief Ricky Sanders is asking for your help. Dalton was supposed to appear in court on Friday for final sentencing, but did not appear. If you have any idea of the whereabouts of this man please call Brownsville Police at 270-597-3814 or Edmonson County Dispatch at 270-597-2729.
Edmonson Voice Staff

Highway 259 was temporarily shut down today as a brutal fire overtook Jacobs' Log Furniture in Lindseyville this afternoon. Six different fire departments were on scene doing their best to fight the blaze, but the building, filled with log furniture, lumber, and other building materials, went up in flames at an amazing pace. Firefighters labored through the intense smoke and flames to control the damage and keep other property safe. Anneta, Kyrock, Lincoln, Brownsville,  Rocky Hill, and Bear Creek Fire Departments were all on hand helping in any way they could.

Jacobs' Log Furniture has been in operation for 13 years, the last three being at the present location. Owner Jeff Jacobs said that someone saw the fire and drove to his wife's restaurant, Laura's Hilltop, and gave her the news. She tried calling him, but Jacobs had no cell phone service at his current location on Nolin Lake with a customer. Having no idea of the fire, he had borrowed the customer's phone to call her for another reason, that's when she gave him the news. 

"Normally, we always leave one person here, but we all went on a furniture delivery today. 99.9% of the time, there's always one person here," he said. There were no reported injuries. "I don't know what we'll do now, we've got customers, we've got orders, I mean, I can't even get ahold of them. All of their information was inside. We just moved all of our tools back in there this morning, we're pretty much at ground zero," he said. 

Along with the fire departments,  the KY State Highway Department was on scene helping with traffic detours. No one had any idea what caused the fire, which is now under investigation.  

Darren Doyle,
Story and Photos

On Tuesday and Wednesday, January 28 and 29, 2015, the Edmonson County High School Academic Team captured the KAAC Governor’s Cup District 12 Championship.  Students from the high school competed in eight events consisting of quick recall, future problem solving (FPS), and written assessment in the following areas: mathematics, science, language arts, social studies, arts and humanities, and English composition.  The participating schools included Edmonson County High School, Grayson County High School, Ohio County High School, and McLean County High School, as competition host. 

ECHS had students competing in eighteen written events and picked up placements in fifteen, including placing first in five of six categories.  ECHS coach Derek Stice had this to say about the individual performance, “This is the most individual placements that ECHS has received since I have taken over as coach, and it is one of the most dominating performances in school history.”  In arts and humanities, Makenzie Daniels placed first, Jacob Simpson placed second, and Cameron Vincent placed fifth.  In science, Jacob Simpson placed third and Aryah Miller placed fifth.  In social studies, Presley Kendall placed first and Danny Holt placed third.  In language arts, Makenzie Daniels placed first, Quinn Dorris placed third, and Dawson Stith placed fifth.  Makenzie only missed two questions on the district exam, which was the highest score, on this exam, in the state.  In English composition, Kolbie Vincent placed first and Dawson Stith placed fourth.  In mathematics, Tyler Huber placed second, and Spencer McMurdo and Aryah Miller tied for fourth.  All of these students will advance to the regional tournament on February 14th.

The FPS team finished second in the district to a very good Grayson County Team.  The team included Olivia Forester, Presley Kendall, Emery Hunt, and Spencer McMurdo.  They will also advance to the regional championship.

ECHS Academic Team - Left to Right: Back Row: Derek Stice (Coach), Cameron Vincent, Spencer McMurdo, Danny Holt, Quinn Dorris, Tyler Huber, Dawson Stith, Jacob Simpson Front Row: Aryah Miller, Makenzie Daniels, Olivia Forester, Presley Kendall, Shaun Stice (Coach), Team Members Not Pictured: John Michael Mills, Emery Hunt, Kolbie Vincent (courtesy of ECHS Academic Team)

The team won all three of its quick recall matches to claim the district title in the event.  In round one, ECHS faced 2013 District Runner-Up and Tri-County Conference Champion Ohio County High School.  ECHS started quickly, going on a 12-0 run to start the game, and never looked back. The halftime score was 20 – 2.  “I was very proud of the team in this game.  After the great start, I was able to make many substitutions and the pressure never let up.  Almost every player on the team scored in this game and the games to follow,” stated Coach Stice.  ECHS defeated Ohio by a final score of 34 – 4.  

In round two, ECHS faced Grayson County and continued its dominance.  After a slow start to the half, ECHS refocused and led at the half by 11 – 4 and went into the bye round with a 28 – 9 victory.

After sitting out round three, ECHS faced Grayson County in the finals of the double elimination tournament. The team began the half with a 9 – 1 run, and maintained this margin entering the intermission with a 14 – 6 lead.  The Wildcats scored two quick points on the first two questions of the second half and it looked like the game might be over.  However, the Cougars followed that with seven consecutive correct answers to pull within three.  ECHS then regrouped and pulled away, capturing the district title with a final score of 28 – 17.

ECHS head coach, Derek Stice, had the following comments, “I am extremely proud of our team.  The majority of our players are sophomores, but hard work has allowed us to play with more experienced teams.  I am very pleased that we were able to capture the championship.  We will now begin working to prepare for the regional championship on February 14 at Owensboro Catholic High School.”

Edmonson Voice Staff
Courtesy of ECHS

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, January 27, 2015. The Hon. Judge Renona Carol Browning presiding.

Bobby J. Lindsey, Possession of synthetic drugs, Pleaded guilty. 45 days in jail. Defendant served out. Court cost of $184 converted to 4 days in jail due to defendant's indigence, served out. Public intoxication of controlled substance, Pleaded guilty. 45 days, concurrent to count one, served out. 

Daniel Shane Halsell, Letter to Judge and motion from defendant to wave payment of costs, fines and fees from previous charge. Motion sustained, bench warrant recalled, fines and costs converted to 3 days in jail, to the sum concurrent with defendant's current sentence being served at Warren County Detention Center.

Zachariah Dylan Mesker, Fleeing or Evading police, 1st degree. Pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed, preliminary hearing for 2/3/15 10am. Wanton endangerment, 1st degree, police officer, pleaded not guilty. 

Zackery Robert Kole Woodcock, Fleeing or evading police, 2nd degree motor vehicle,  wanton endangerment 1st degree, police officer (two counts) criminal mischief 1st degree, wanton endangerment 1st degree, fleeing or evading police 1st on foot, reckless driving, improper passing. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Public attorney appointed, preliminary hearing for 2/3/15, 10am. 

William Kevin Crews, Alcohol intoxication in a public place. Pleaded guilty, fined $100. Disorderly conduct, 2nd degree, plead guilty. Fined $100 (fines concurrent), 30 days in jail, suspended for two years on no similar offense. Total fines and costs $284. Show cause hearing set for 7/28/15.

Cody Lee Haycraft, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs 1st offense. Pleaded guilty. 30 days in jail, credit of 4 days served, balance suspended for two years on no similar offense. License suspended for 30 days. Careless driving. Merged into count one. No tail lamps, Pleaded guilty, fined $50, concurrent to charge one. Total fines and cost $728, show cause hearing for 1/26/16.

Vickie Joe Crews, Speeding 26 mph over. Merged into count three. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, w/.08, aggravator, 1st offense. Pleaded guilty. 30 days in jail, credit for 2 days served, balance suspended for two years on no similar offense. License suspended for 90 days. Careless driving, pleaded guilty. Fined $50, concurrent. Total fines and cost $728, show cause hearing for 1/26/16.

Jacob Lee VanMeter, Driving too fast for traffic conditions. Merged into count two. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, .08 1st offense. Pleaded guilty. 30 days in jail, credit of two days served, balance suspended for two years on no similar offense. License suspended for 30 days. Total fines and costs $728, show cause hearing for 1/26/16.

Zackary N Bossom, Speeding 26 mph over limit, pleaded guilty. Amended to 24 mph over limit, fined $48. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation, pleaded guilty. Fined $25. Reckless driving, pleaded guilty, sentenced to traffic school. Fines concurrent. Total costs and fines $191, show cause hearing for 3/10/15.

Brandon M Duff, Obstructed vision and/or windshield. Pleaded guilty. Fined $100, suspended for one year on no similar offense and on condition defendant provides proof of repair on 5-19-15. Failure to produce insurance card, dismissed without prejudice, proof shown. Court cost $143, show cause hearing for 5/19/15.

Dustin T Gipson, Speeding, 26mph over limit. Pleaded guilty, amended to 24 mph over, fined $48. Reckless driving, pleaded guilty, sentenced to traffic school. 

Pedro Sanchez Jr, Speeding 26mph over limit, pleaded guilty. Amended to 24 mph over, fined $48. Reckless driving, pleaded guilty, sentenced to traffic school. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Total costs and fines $191, show cause hearing for 3/10/15.

Brent R Foley, Speeding 17mph over limit, Court Notice to appear on 2/10/15 9am or bench warrant will be issued. No/expired Ky registration receipt, Dismissed without prejudice. No/expired registration plates, dismissed without prejudice. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation, waiting for proof. 

James Arthur Hudson, Operating on suspended/revoked operators license. One headlight. Failure to produce insurance card. All charges dismissed per county attorney's office.

Nathan H Vibbert, Operating on suspended/revoked operators license. Continued for 2/24/15.

Eric Shannon Vibbert, Failure to give or improper signal. No/expired registration plates. No/expired registration receipt. All dismissed without prejudice.

Codi Durbin, Speeding 16mph over limit. Pleaded guilty. Sentenced to traffic school. Operating vehicle with expired operators license, dismissed without prejudice. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation, dismissed without prejudice.

Greta Sue Vincent, Speeding 21 mph over limit. Continued for 2/10/15.

Ashley N Kinser, Speeding 10mph over limit. Paid in full.

Matthew T Briner, Speeding 18mph over limit, continued for 2/10/15. License to be in possession, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice.

Sarah A. Coomer, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia. Continued for 2/10/15.

Steffen Meredith, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia. Continued for 2/10/15.

Kenneth A Mattingly, Operating on suspended/revoked operators license, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/24/15. No/expired registration plates, Proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. No/expired Ky registration receipt. Proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Possession of license when privileges are revoked/suspended. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 3/24/15.

Natasha J Crowder, possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 2/24/15.

Derek L Crowder, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty.  Pretrial conference for 2/24/15.

Willard Lee Crowder, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty.  Pretrial conference for 2/24/15.

Judge Executive Wil Cannon discussed several changes that the county is looking to make with the Parks and Rec program, specifically the youth baseball and softball program. Judge Cannon reported that Park Director A.B. Webb has voluntarily offered money from his own salary to seek improvements in the program. Judge Cannon reported to the court that the county is looking to hire a Little League Administrator to focus on issues regarding coaches, the Parks & Rec Board, rules and regulations, and to also be an advocate for players and parents. More specific duties of the new administrator will be discussed in future fiscal court meetings. The hiring of a new administrator would shift much of the director's current duties and allow Webb to focus on the management of the facilities themselves: Field preparation, mowing, proper equipment, gear, and more. The Edmonson Voice reported to the court the amount of feedback that we received from our recent polls and letter to the editor regarding our parks, and that it was a popular issue with our readers. The court was pleased to received the feedback and asked us to elaborate in the next meeting when more details of the new administrator will be discussed.

Judge Cannon also discussed plans to make improvements and repairs to the basketball and tennis courts. The judge said that it was time for people to see that Edmonson County cared about it's parks, facilities, and most importantly, the kids who use them. The court also re-appointed Parks and Rec Board members Derek Curtis and Laura Thomas, as well as appointed three new members, Greg Hudson, Lori Alexander, and Jodi Johnson.

The court also heard from county road foreman Ray Page. He reported that county road crews were out from 5pm Friday evening to 6am the next morning, plowing roads and doing other road work. He reported that some areas of the county received a total of 5-6 inches of snow Friday night. He also said that his department has ordered an additional 50 tons of salt for future road preparation. 

Ambulance Director Keith Sanders reported that the ambulance service is receiving a $10,000 grant from the KY Board of EMS, which will be used for improvements at our local EMS.

The court heard from Lisa Whobery and Lisa Sanders who requested use of the Chalybeate Park for an ECHS Youth Leadership Project on April 25th. The group is planning a 5k Run and a benefit concert for the American Cancer Society. The concert will be made up of local artists and bands. The court approved the organization's request. In case of inclement weather, a date of June 6 was also approved as a make up date. 

Sheriff Shane Doyle gave the Sheriff's report. He credited the cooperation of the Brownsville Police, State Police, the Sheriff's dept, as well as all rescue and emergency personnel for the car chase/manhunt that kept all agencies busy on Thursday night. He also reported that the Sheriff's office building was in need of repair in several areas. He had received estimates for various repairs and painting. He requested for the magistrates to visit the office and see for themselves. The court agreed to study the matter and discuss at the next meeting. He also reported that he has requested a grant from the Law Enforcement Protection Program that will allow his department to purchase new body armor and tasers. 

Constables Elvis Lindsey and Tim Skees also attended and offered their help and services to law enforcement and the court in any way they could contribute. The office of constable is a volunteer position. 

County Attorney J.B. Hines reported that his new office was getting settled in after Windstream Communications had damaged some phone lines in his office. The phones and internet was being sorted out and should be 100% soon. 

County Clerk Kevin Alexander reported that the vote tallying machines and software was in desperate need of improving and updating. He was in the process of researching different options for the county. 

Jailer Hank Vincent reported that Edmonson County currently had 33 inmates lodged at the Hart County Jail. He said he'd been able to establish an excellent working relationship with the new Hart County Jailer and looked forward to working with him in the future. 

The court also:

• Agreed to advertise the mowing contract of Bee Spring Park
  
• Approved Constables' Bond
• Approved Extension Agent District Board Appointment of James Davis
• Approved County Treasure Public Officials Bond
• Heard from the Judge regarding installation of lighting on the war monument and the flag outside the courthouse. 
• Heard from County Extension Agent David Embry. He introduced Julia Branstetter, another member of the agency and Family & Consumer Sciences/ 4-H Youth Development. She discussed a possible grant that would help promote healthy lifestyles in Edmonson County 

Darren Doyle, Story and Photos

An Edmonson County jury found Allen Hatcher, 67, of Glasgow, (formerly of Rocky Hill) guilty of murder in a retrial of a case almost 12 years old. Hatcher was originally tried and convicted in 2005 for the murder of Edward Tankersley Jr in Rocky Hill where Hatcher was accused of shooting Tankersley in the head. Hatcher was then sentenced to 30 years in the state penitentiary. The case was appealed in 2008 but the guilty conviction was upheld at that time. It was then taken to the Kentucky Court of Appeals in 2010, where a retrial was ordered on the grounds of "ineffective assistance of counsel because of trial counsel's alleged failure to challenge the jury instructions, to object to amendment of the charges, to adequately investigate the prosecution's witnesses, and to raise double jeopardy as an issue." The Jury upheld the guilty verdict in Edmonson Circuit Court on Thursday of last week.

In addition to the guilty verdict, the jury has recommended that Hatcher receives a sentence of life in prison with chance of parole in twenty years. Formal sentencing is scheduled for February 16, 2015 at 10am. Until then, Hatcher will remain in the Hart County Jail under a $100,000 cash bond. 

Edmonson Voice Staff

On Saturday morning at approximately 1:30am, officer Dennis and officer Avery made a traffic stop on a silver Chevy Monte Carlo on Main St in Brownsville driven by Jacob VanMeter of Brownsville. Police said VanMeter had slurred speech and smelled of alcoholic beverages. It was reported VanMeter stated he "hadn't drank any since 5pm."  VanMeter consented to field sobriety tests and was arrested for DUI. VanMeter tested almost twice the legal limit.

Later that  night, Deputy Phillips was doing stationary patrol on Veterans Memorial when he encountered a car traveling at a very high rate of speed, he was able to radar the vehicle at 84mph. Upon getting the vehicle stopped across from the fairgrounds, he found the small Ford car was being driven by Vickie Crews, with her husband, Kevin Crews in the passenger seat. Both admitted to drinking earlier that evening. After field sobriety test were administered, Vicki Crews was arrested for aggravated circumstance DUI, and tested well over twice the legal limit. Kevin Crews was also arrested for alcohol intoxication in a public place and disorderly conduct in the 2nd degree.

All were lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Police and emergency personnel are on the lookout for Zackery Woodcock, wanted in Florida for violent drug crimes. Woodcock crashed his vehicle while being chased by Warren County deputies and is now on foot. Sources say that a man with his description was seen in the woods near the nursing home. He was last seen wearing a green baseball cap, he's 20-25 years old and weighs approximately 130lbs. Guns were found in his crashed car, and he could be armed. If you see anyone suspicious on foot with this description, please call police immediately. We will have more on this story as more details are known.

Update: 1/23/15
The suspect was taken into custody last night without incident. We reported that Warren County deputies were involved in the chase. Official reports say that Smiths Grove Police was the only agency involved in the chase. We apologize for the error.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Above: Car driven by Zackery Woodcock, wanted man. (ECSO)

Police are reporting that Zackery Kole Woodcock, a man on the run after crashing his car in an attempt to evade Smiths Grove Police, has been captured. 

On Thursday, January 22nd, Chief Tom Suoy of the Smiths Grove Police Dept. attempted to make a traffic stop on a silver Honda Accord.  After making contact with the driver, Chief Suoy found that the driver, Zackery Robert Kole Woodcock, 19, of Morgantown, had felony extradition warrants out of Florida.  Woodcock then fled in the Honda, reaching speeds over 100 mph.  Woodcock evaded Chief Suoy for a short period of time and was contacted by Officer Garth Avery of the Brownsville City Police Department.  Officer Avery observed Woodcock traveling at high speeds and met and passed several vehicles, placing the occupants of all vehicles and all officers involved at risk of serious injury or death.  Woodcock lost control of his vehicle after passing another car and wrecked into a vacant lot, striking a water hydrant.  The vehicle then caught fire, which was extinguished by Deputy Jordan Jones who retrieved a fire extinguisher from his cruiser.  Woodcock fled on foot, and Officer Avery and Officer Nathan Dennis found Zachariah Dylan Mesker, also 19, of Smiths Grove, in the passenger's seat.  After approximately a 2 hour search, Woodcock was located in a Brownsville residence, and was arrested without incident. 

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, January 20, 2015. The Hon. Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Justin D Satterly, Public intoxication of controlled substance. Plead guilty, sentenced to 5 days in jail, credited 5 days served. Fines/costs $384.

Cody Carson, No/expired registration plates, No/expired KY registration receipt, All other traffic offenses not listed. Dismissed.

Michael Scott Finn, Speeding 21mph over, Failure to produce insurance card, one headlight, no/expired KY registration receipt. Continued for 2/3/15 due to a child in hospital.

Penny M. Smith, No/expired registration plates, no/expired KY registration receipt, failure to produce insurance card. Dismissed.

Lawrence Eugene Alvey, Speeding 20mph over. Sentenced to traffic school. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation, Proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. $143 court cost.

Troy Vibbert, Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Rescheduled for 2/3/15 to show proof.

Harry Ran Barlow, Operating on suspended/revoked operators license, Pleaded not guilty. Failure to produce insurance card, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference scheduled for 2/3/15.

Joshua Adam Graves, Speeding 22mph over. Continued for 2/17/15.

Deborah M Slaughter, No/expired registration plates, No/expired KY registration receipt. Dismissed.

James Aaron Ashley, Possession of controlled substance 3rd degree, drug unspecified. Pleaded not guilty. Controlled substance prescription not in original container, 1st. Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/3/15.

Raymond L Davis, Registered sex offender school restrictions. Continue in two weeks for county attorney to determine whether to dismiss or defer. 

Kevin J Deitrick, Drug paraphernalia, Buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Possession of marijuana, Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/3/15.

Gary L Foley,  Drug paraphernalia, Buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Possession of marijuana, Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/3/15.

Zachary D Hogan,  Drug paraphernalia, Buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Possession of marijuana, Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/3/15.

Jordan T Watt,  Drug paraphernalia, Buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Possession of marijuana, Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/3/15.

(Bowling Green, KY)-  
The Kentucky State Police has added four new Troopers to its Post in Bowling Green.  The four- Jason Adkison, Daniel Priddy, Bartley Weaver, and Harrison Wells IV- are members of the Kentucky State Police Class No. 92, which graduated January 16.  The graduation and commissioning ceremony of 69 new Troopers was held at the Franklin County Convention Center in Frankfort.
 
They started a 23 week training academy on August 3 in a class that consisted of 90 cadets and had 21 reloads for a total of 111 cadets that participated in the academy, and concluded with 69 that completed and graduated.  The training included more than 1,000 hours of classroom and field study in subjects such as constitutional law, juvenile and traffic law, use of force, weapons training, defensive tactics, first aid, high speed vehicle pursuit, criminal investigation, computer literacy, hostage negotiations, evidence collection, radio procedures, search and seizure, crash investigation, drug identification, traffic control, crowd control, armed robbery response, land navigation, electronic crimes, sex crimes, hate crimes, domestic violence, bomb threats, hazardous materials, and countless rigorous hours of physical and mental preparation.
 
Adkison, of Scottsville, is a 2004 graduate of Allen County High School, a 2013 graduate of Western Kentucky University, and served with Infantry in the United States Marines from 2004-2008.
 
Priddy, of Brownsville, is a 2004 graduate of Edmonson County High School, attended Western Kentucky University, and was a dispatcher at Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green for the last 10 years.  He is married to wife Stephanie Priddy.  Trooper Priddy said he's glad to be back home after completing the vigorous academy. "It was extremely tough, but it was outstanding training. Everything was well worth it in the end," he said. He's also happy he was assigned to Warren County, close to his home.
 
Weaver, of Cave City, is a 2007 graduate of Caverna High School, a 2011 graduate of Kentucky Wesleyan College, and was an Officer for 3 years with Kentucky Probation and Parole.  Weaver is the son of Bart and Pat Weaver. Bart is an educator and coach at Edmonson County High School. We spoke with Coach Weaver earlier today. "He has completed a rough 23 weeks at the Academy in Frankfort. He actually started today and is working at the Bowling Green Post. My wife and I are very proud of him," he said.

Wells, of Somerset, is a 2009 graduate of Southwestern High School and a 2013 graduate of Eastern Kentucky University.

Above From L-R: KSP Troopers Daniel Priddy, Bartley Weaver, Jason Adkison, and Harrison Wells IV  (courtesy KSP)

The new Troopers will now undergo an eight week Field Training Program where they will work alongside a veteran Trooper who will serve as a Field Training Officer in various counties throughout the Post Area.  The new Troopers will receive their county assignments upon completion of the Field Training Program.
 
Information on how to become a Kentucky State Trooper can be found at www.kentuckystatepolice.org or by contacting the Public Affairs Officer at your local Kentucky State Police Post.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Edmonson District Court was held Tuesday, January 13, 2015. 
The Hon. Judge Renona Carol Browning presiding.

James D. Francis, Driving on DUI suspended license, Pleaded not guilty. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, pleaded not guilty. Bond: released on own recognizance. Public attorney appointed, pre trial conference scheduled for 1/27/15. 

George C. Mills, speeding. Paid. $143 court cost.

Chester B. McNulty, speeding. Pleaded guilty. Sentenced to traffic school plus $143 court cost. Show cause scheduled for 2/24/15.

Debra C. Jaggers, speeding, made payment, continued on 2/24/15, $143 court cost.

Jeremy W. Carnes, speeding, rescheduled for 1/27/15

Christopher Tuel, Theft by deception including cold checks, pleaded not guilty. Failure to appear notice recalled, pre trial conference for 2/10/15

Chelsea D. Derosier, speeding, pleaded guilty. Sentenced to traffic school, $143 court cost, show cause hearing set for 2/24/15

Cassandra Jo Saltsman, No/expired registration plates, no/expired registration receipt, failure to produce insurance card, all dismissed without prejudice. 

Anita C. Bear, Speeding. Pleaded guilty. Sentenced to traffic school. Show cause hearing for 2/24/15. $143 Court cost. Operating on suspended/revoked operators license, dismissed without prejudice.

Bryan G. Scott Jr. Speeding, pleaded guilty, fined $30. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Fines and court cost $143.

Kathryn M. Meredith, speeding. Pleaded guilty, sentenced to traffic school. $143 court cost, show cause hearing for 3/10/15.

Amanda Erin Love, Speeding. Paid in full. No/expired reg. plates, dismissed per county attorney's office. Court cost $143.

Larry Meredith, No/expired registration plates. Dismissed without prejudice.

Kevin Patric Wesolowski, speeding, pleaded not guilty. Failure to register transfer of motor vehicle, pleaded not guilty. Operating on suspended/revoked license, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/24/15.

Phillip E Harper, no/expired plates,  No/expired reg. receipt. Failure to produce insurance card. Proof shown for all three, all dismissed without prejudice.

Brittany M. Jones, Failure to wear seat belt, failure to use child restraint device in vehicle, booster seat violations. Failed to appear, notice sent to department of transportation.

Ronnie Lee Vincent, Illegal taking of wildlife, pleaded not guilty. Spotlighting/Use of artificial light, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 1/27/15.

Austin M Vincent,  Illegal taking of wildlife, pleaded not guilty. Spotlighting/Use of artificial light, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 1/27/15.

Edmonson Voice Staff

The Edmonson County Schools are joining the state's 172 other public school systems to mark Kentucky's 20th observation of January as School Board Member Recognition Month.

When it comes to devotion to what's in the best interest of our students, no community has a finer group of citizen leaders than Lorri Keith, Mickey Johnson, Gary Bagshaw, Alex Ulm and Tonya Jones.

Many people understand that our board is responsible for setting and balancing an eighteen million dollar budget, establishing the directional policy for the school system, deciding on the school year calendar, and acting on concerns raised by the students, employees, parents and taxpayers in our community.

However, most people have no concept of the countless hours each of our board members spend in of study outside of their regular meetings.

A well known local pastor, Brother Howard Decker of Leitchfield, passed away Wednesday evening while working on a barn with a neighbor. According to the Grayson County Coroner, Decker suffered a massive heart attack and died instantly. 

Early reports said that he had fallen from the barn and succumbed to injuries, but those accounts were incorrect. An eye witness with Decker at the scene said that Decker fell only a few feet from a small ladder and that the fall had nothing to do with the end result.

Brother Decker was the pastor of Chalybeate United Baptist Church, an office he had held since 2005. The tragic news was obviously a shock to church and community members. "It's unbelievable...I just talked to him a few hours before the accident," one church member said. Another was heard saying, "This entire community is a little bit weaker. Whether you knew him from church or not, he always called everyone friend, and he looked at everyone that way."

A deacon from Chalybeate Church said, "Our church will be fine, God will take care of us. We ask that you direct your thoughts and prayers to Brother Howard's family during this difficult time."

Brother Decker not only was the pastor at Chalybeate, he also currently held the role at Fairdale United Baptist in Louisville. During his 32 years as a minister, he served as pastor at various churches in Edmonson and surrounding counties: Lear Hill, Mt. Zion (Edmonson County) Mt. Zion (Grayson County) Caney Creek, Mulberry Flats, Basil Chapel, and Claggett. He also served as the Moderator of the Green River Association of United Baptists from 2006-2011.

You can read the obituary and funeral arrangements here.

Edmonson Voice Staff

The Kentucky State Police has announced that the statewide "Operation R.A.I.D." (Reducing Aggressive, Impaired, and Distracted Driving) begun on January 11, and will run through January 24. 

In an effort to reduce collisions and loss of life, KSP is implementing an enforcement initiative that will target aggressive, impaired and distracted driving behaviors. Each KSP Post and region will utilize specific crash data indicating where the majority of crashes occurred, crash causation and time frames when these crashes took place. Based on that data, posts will increase enforcement efforts in those targeted zones for all passenger and commercial vehicles.

The effort was developed by KSP Commanders across the state to target driving behaviors that cause most crashes in Kentucky. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as occurring when "an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property."  NHTSA studies show that aggressive drivers cause two-thirds of all fatal crashes and 35 percent of all crashes.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Emergency personnel worked through the bitter wind chill today after a semi truck carrying a load of pallets overturned on Highway 259 in front of Sweeden Missionary Baptist Church. The driver of the truck, Roy J. Myatt of Morgantown, was uninjured in the accident. There were no passengers, and no other vehicles were involved. Myatt was reportedly wearing his seat belt.

Traffic was limited to one lane only for over an hour while local police, commercial vehicle enforcement, the state road department, local fire departments, emergency management, and towing and recovery workers sorted out the mess. Hundreds of wooden pallets were scattered along both the highway and private property. The driver of the semi said that as he came around the curve just before the church, he was crowded by an oncoming car that was southbound. He says he tried to stay at the shoulder of the road, but the trailer went too far over. The lay of the land, which was a small slope downward, was just enough to flip the rig on it's side. 

The towing and recovery team sent a total of four trucks to help with the accident: two semi wreckers to pull the truck off it's side, one rollback truck, and another truck hauling  a skid steer loader to clean up the pallets.

Sheriff Shane Doyle said there was a very efficient team effort made. "Kyrock VFD and the State Highway Department was crucial to keeping traffic running safely and smoothly." He also added, "This could have been a horrible tragedy but thankfully, no one was hurt, and everyone pitched in to help get things back to normal as quickly as possible."

Darren Doyle
Story and photos

The first full Fiscal Court meeting of 2015 not only welcomed the ECHS Youth Leadership Group, but also the new Judge Executive, County Attorney, Sheriff, County Clerk, and two new magistrates in their normal county government capacities. The purpose of the students' attendance today was to learn more about the county government as well as the purpose of each county office. Most all county officials addressed the youth today, explaining their positions and giving advice to the leaders of tomorrow. 

Today, the court also:
Heard from W. McKinley Morgan, upon recommendation from Jailer Hank Vincent, about various equipment and available technology from Southeast Kentucky Monitoring, a company that specializes in home-incarceration. Mr. Morgan discussed the advantages of allowing many employed non-violent offenders to be under monitored arrest instead of jail. Jailer Vincent explained that the company's services would be funded by the offenders, and could actually be profitable for the county, instead of the $25 per day that the county pays for each prisoner behind bars. 

• Approved Fiscal Court December Financial Report
• Approved Judges' Quarterly Report
• Re-appointed County Treasurer for a 4 year term, effective 7/1/15
• Approved attendance to KCJEA Winter Conference, Feb 4-6
• Approved 2015 County Budget Reporter Maintenance Agreement with Harper's Consultant
• Approved 2015 Computer Knights Maintenance Agreement on computer systems
• Approved Sheriff's December property tax, excess fees, and fire protection tax reports, pending final audit
• Acknowledged Community Center December Financial Report
• Approved payment of newly elected officials conference expenses 

Sheriff Shane Doyle also gave the sheriff's report. He said that newly hired deputy Jordan Jones has been approved to begin training at the Criminal Justice Training Academy in Richmond, KY in August. He also noted the difference in certain categories from 2013-14. There was a 15% increase in overall calls for service, 20% rise in criminal cases, 25% decrease in civil summons, and a whopping 150% increase in both arrests and EPO's. He also said that soon each officer will have a complete mobile data station in each patrol vehicle, with the ability to have online access to records and other info anywhere in the county.

County Attorney J.B. Hines reported that the excess funds from the office of the previous county attorney had been successfully transferred with no problems. He also stated that his office has also hired a brand new Assistant County Attorney, Leia Knee. Ms. Knee will assist the office in a variety of ways with focus on juvenile cases and child support cases. Hines stated that this would be a tremendous asset the his office as well as the county. 

Just before adjournment, Judge Cannon allowed each student with the ECHS Youth Leadership to stand and introduce themselves. He thanked them and explained his role as Judge Executive as well as giving them some good advice. "As the possible future leaders of our county and communities, becoming an effective leader means you have to put other people's needs before your own," he said. He also said to make honesty a priority. He noted that neither he nor anyone else was perfect, but it's about striving to always do right and do good. He closed by saying "Always be honest in everything you do. There's never a right time to do the wrong thing."

Darren Doyle, 
Edmonson Voice
Story and Photos

A tragic accident claimed the life of Michael Campbell, 41 of Brownsville Saturday night when a drunk driver, Delois Beasley, 38 of Nashville, driving the wrong direction on I65, hit Campbell's corvette head-on. The accident occurred near the Old Hickory Blvd area of I65 northbound.  Police say that once Beasley is released from the hospital, she will be charged with vehicular homicide by intoxication as well as vehicular assault. 

Terry Anderson, 32 of the Edmonton area, was a passenger in Campbell's car and was hospitalized with serious injuries. The two men were headed home after attending a concert.

Campbell grew up in the Oak Grove community. He leaves behind his wife, Melinda, two young sons and an adult son and daughter-in-law. At press time, funeral arrangements had not been made.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Edmonson District Court was held Tuesday, January 6, 2015. 
The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Tina D Williams, Speeding, sentenced to traffic school. No/expired registration plates, dismissed without prejudice. No/expired registration receipt, dismissed without prejudice. License to be in possession, dismissed without prejudice. Court costs $143.

James G McCombs, Jr. No/expired registration plates, No/expired registration receipt, both dismissed. Court costs $143.

Jennifer Townly, Speeding. Sentenced to traffic school plus court costs, $143.

Travis M Cline, Operating motor vehicle under influence of drugs/alcohol, Pleaded guilty. 30 days in jail, credit for 7 days served. License suspended for 90 days. Court cost and fines, $718.

Julie M Hayes, Reckless driving, pleaded guilty. Fined $20. Failure to give oncoming vehicle 1/2 of highway, dismissed without prejudice. Fines and court cost $163.

Ethan R Birdwell, Speeding, sentenced to traffic school. Failure to produce insurance card, dismissed. Court cost $143.

Sara E Montgomery, Speeding, Failure to produce insurance card. Failed to appear.

Kenneth Barker, Speeding, Failure to produce insurance card. Failed to appear.

Jennifer L Turner, Speeding, Reckless driving, Failure to wear seat belts, Failed to appear.

Tyler C Higgs, Speeding 26 mph over limit, amended to 15 over. Reckless driving, deferred one year with no other traffic offense. Failure to wear seat belts, deferred one year with no other traffic offense. $143 Court cost.

Angela Michelle Ray, No/expired registration plates, no expired registration receipt. Proof shown, both dismissed. $143 court cost.

Isaiah L King, No/expired registration plates, no/expired registration receipt, failure to register transfer of motor vehicle, proof shown, all dismissed without prejudice. $143 court cost. 

Richard B McElroy, speeding, sentenced to traffic school. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. $143 court cost.

George K Tarter, Failure to produce insurance card, improper registration plate, no/expired registration receipt, no/expired registration plates, failure to register transfer of motor vehicle. Pleaded not guilty to all, Pre trial conference scheduled for 3/3/15.

Cody Carson, no/expired registration plates, no/expired registration receipt. Failed to appear.

Ian, P Wells, speeding, reckless driving. Failed to appear. 

Michael Scott Finn, Speeding, failure to produce insurance card, one headlight, no/expired registration receipt. Continued two weeks per county attorney's office.

Jordon T Watt, no/expired registration plates, License to be in possession, Proof shown for both charges, dismissed without prejudice. Failure to produce insurance card. Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 1/20/15. Court cost $143.

Ruth A Daniel, Careless driving, set for 2/17/15, Failure to produce insurance card, Proof shown, dismissed without prejudice.

Penny M Smith, No/expired registration plates, no/expired registration receipts, failure to produce insurance card. Continued in two weeks per county attorney's office.

Jessica K Southworth, Failure to produce insurance card, License to be in possession, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license, one headlight. Failed to appear.

Brandon M Duff, Disregarding signals from officers directing traffic, Failure to produce insurance card, Obstricted vision and/or windshield. Failed to appear.

Deborah M Slaughter, no/expired registration plates, no/expired registration receipt. Continued in two weeks per county attorney's office.

Lee E Ray, operating on suspended/revoked operators license, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Possessing license when privileges are revoked/suspended, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Court cost $154.

Cody W Hennion, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Possessing license when privileges are revoked/suspended, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Failure to produce insurance card. Court cost $154.

Ronna Dean Durbin, Assault 4th degree minor injury. No contact with victim for 1 year, deferred for one year with no violation of DVO. 

Theresa Orange, Theft of services, pleaded not guilty. Attorney appointed, pre trial conference set for 1/20/15. 

Representative Michael Meredith Files Three Bills in Effort to Strengthen Agricultural Economy in Kentucky, Support Local Fire Departments

Proposals deal with sales tax on purchase of drugs for treatment of farm animals, bees and products used in commercial operations, provide tax credits for firefighters

FRANKFORT, Ky. (January 9, 2015) – In his continued work as a advocate for agriculture and local government in Kentucky, Representative Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville (19th District) yesterday filed two bills dealing with sales tax on the purchase of drugs to treat farm animals, and also the sales and usage tax on commercial bee operations and the products used as part of that operation.

House Bill 157 would expand a waiver currently allowed under Kentucky law to exempt sales tax on the purchase of prescription and over the counter medications for the treatment of animals used for agricultural purposes. This includes beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, horses, poultry, swine, and buffalos.  Rep. Meredith filed the bill again this session because of the growing impact such exemptions in neighboring states are having on Kentucky agribusiness.

“Tennessee has long provided a sales tax exemption on the purchase of drugs used to treat farm animals, and it places our farming community and veterinarians at a great disadvantage financially,” said Rep.  Meredith.  “In order for Kentucky’s agriculture industry to remain competitive, members of the General Assembly must recognize the disadvantages it faces.  My bill is a step toward leveling the playing for Kentucky’s agriculture community.” 

Rep. Meredith’s other proposal, House Bill 155, would amend Kentucky’s sales and use tax covered by KRS 139.480.  This amendment would cover commercial bee operations and the products that are used for production purposes and would work to waive sales taxes on the sale, use, storage and consumption.  Rep. Meredith’s bill defines commercial bee operations as the production of honey, wax, or pollination of crops for human consumption, and would cover items like sugar, high fructose corn syrup, medications, components and accessories for bee hives, beekeeping apparel, and related machinery under the sales and use tax law.

“Kentucky has seen tremendous growth in beekeeping operations in the last several years.  With the appropriate legislation, the Commonwealth could become a recognized producer of apiary items,” added Rep. Meredith.  “We already offer these same exemptions for many agricultural products and this is a common sense way for us to help beekeepers across the Commonwealth.”

Also filed by Rep. Meredith is a proposal to provide tax credits to local firefighters.  House Bill 175 would allow any volunteer firefighter who is certified by the Commission on Fire Protection Personnel Standards and Education to be eligible for a refundable tax credit of $1,000 beginning on January 1, 2016.  Eligibility for the tax credit would be based on certification and that the individual must be a certified volunteer firefighter for the entire taxable year.

“Several members of my family, including my father and brother, have served and protected their communities for many years as volunteer firefighters.  Every day volunteer firefighters across Kentucky not only put themselves in harm’s way, but many of them do so without any thanks or financial reimbursement for their own expenditures,” said Rep. Meredith.  “My proposal is one way we can express our gratitude to them, while at the same time provide them with a tax credit that can offset out-of-pockets costs they make during the year.”

Rep. Meredith filed House Bills 155, 157, and 175 for consideration during the 2015 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly.

Photo Cut Line: Representative Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, was sworn in to office by Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice John Minton during the first day of the 2015 Session of the General Assembly.  Rep. Meredith was re-elected in November to a third term representing the 19th District comprised of Edmonson and part of Warren County. (Photo: LRC Public Information)