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Edmonson County's Number One Source For Local News and Information
 Cody Brady, 19, Brownsville On Friday, February 27th 2015, Brownsville Police received a complaint from Minute Mart in reference to several subjects that were intoxicated. Police say Officer Garth Avery located the vehicle in the parking lot at a gas pump and observed several subjects in and around the vehicle. Through further investigation and by viewing the store surveillance cameras, the driver of the vehicle, Cody Brady, 19, was found to be under the influence.
Brady also had outstanding felony arrest warrants out of Edmonson County. He was placed under arrest for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol under 21 years of age and operating a motor vehicle with no operators license. The felony arrest warrant was also served on Brady. The other occupants of the vehicle, Gabrielle Vincent, Suprena Vincent, and Richard Reddish were arrested for alcohol intoxication in a public place 1st or 2nd offense. All persons arrested were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Officer Avery was assisted in the investigation by Brownsville P.D. Officer Nathan Dennis, Deputies Stoney Phillips, Wally Ritter, and Jimmy Coniglio, and Kentucky Division of Probation and Parole Officer Josh Watt. Edmonson Voice Staff
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 Jason Dalton, 22, Brownsville (Hart Co Jail) Update: (Morgantown, KY)- On Friday, February 27, 2015 at 9:34 am the Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green received information that an individual that was wanted on felony warrants was possibly at a residence in Butler County.
Troopers responded to 5985 Leonard Oak Road in Morgantown and located Jason Dalton (25), of Brownsville, KY, and arrested him for warrants issued through the Edmonson County Circuit Court, that had originally stemmed from an investigation conducted by the Brownsville Police Department. Dalton was arrested by Trooper Harrison Wells and was lodged in the Butler County Jail on a Failure To Appear warrant and a warrant charging him with Bail Jumping 1st degree and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd degree. We will continue to update this story as the details become available.  Kyle Lawrence, 22, Brownsville (Hart Co Jail) On February 26th 2015, Brownsville Police Department Officer Garth Avery, Sheriff Shane Doyle and Constable Tim Skees observed a silver Ford sedan traveling recklessly at a high rate of speed on Washington Street in Brownsville. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle through further investigation, it was determined that the driver of the vehicle, Kyle Lawrence, 22, of Brownsville, was under the influence.
Lawrence was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/ drugs/etc..08 or above-1st offense, possession of an open alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle, careless driving, and disregarding a stop sign. Lawrence was lodged in the Hart County Jail. Also assisting were Deputies Wally Ritter and Jordan Jones, both of the Edmonson County Sheriffs Department. Edmonson Voice Staff The 2015 seniors of the ECHS Wildcat Basketball team stood with their loved ones last night at center court as they were recognized for their contributions to the program. Edmonson County had six young men in the spotlight before their victory against Butler County last night. The Edmonson Voice salutes these fine young men and their families for all they've done for Edmonson County athletics.
 Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 24, 2015.
The Honorable Judge Renona Carol Browning, presiding. Rick S. Brooks, Burglary, 1st degree, pleaded not guilty. Assault, 2nd degree, pleaded not guilty. Criminal mischief 1st degree, pleaded not guilty. Wanton endangerment 1st degree police officer, pleaded not guilty. Assault 3rd degree police/probation officer, pleaded not guilty. Disarming a police officer, pleaded not guilty. Preliminary hearing set for 3/3/15. Cody Lee Gordon, possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/24/15. Public attorney appointed. Zachary D Hogan, custodial interference. Defendant bonded out for different arraignment date, 3/10/15. Kaleb D Ferguson, Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury, pleaded not guilty. Pleaded not guilty. Bond modified to released on recognizance, no further contact with 16 yr old brother. Pretrial conference for 3/24/15. Cody W Hennion, unlawful transaction w/minor 3rd degree, pleaded not guilty. Illegal possession of alcohol in dry territory 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed. Pretrial conference 3/24/15. Rodney L Perry, speeding 15mph over limit, pleaded guilty. Fined $30. Failure to produce insurance card, dismissed without prejudice. Total fines and court cost $173. Johnathan R Minton, Speeding 16mph over limit, pleaded guilty. Sentenced to traffic school, will review on 4/21/15 to see that defendant has completed. No/expired registration plates, pleaded guilty. Fined $25. No/expired KY registration receipt, pleaded guilty, fined $25. Failure to owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Pleaded guilty. Fined $500, suspended $450 for 2 yrs on no similar offense. Gordon W. Miller, no/expired registration plates, dismissed without prejudice, proof shown. No/expired KY registration receipt, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Cody Willoughby, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license. Failed to appear, bench warrant issued. Burt A Houchin, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Richard E Martin, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license, pleaded not guilty. Failure to produce insurance card, dismissed without prejudice, proof filed. Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/10/15. Kaleb D Ferguson, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed, pretrial conference for 3/24/15. Faith L Martin, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/10/15. Nathan H. Vibbert, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference scheduled for 4/21/15. Aaron Seth Bevins, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alchohol/drugs 2nd offense. Pleaded not guilty. Driving on suspended license 1st offense, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/24/15. Erica A Meredith, License to be in possession, failure to produce insurance card, no/expired registration plates. Continued for 3/10/15. Paula Claycomb, Theft by deception including cold checks, dismissed without prejudice. Ricky Jordan, criminal trespassing 3rd degree, pleaded not guilty. Theft of services, pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed, pretrial conference for 3/17/15. Brandon Tyler Carnes, assault 4th degree minor injury. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 3/10/15. Paula A Claycomb, Theft by deception including cold checks (2 counts). Sheriff Doyle testified that the defendant was a victim of identity theft. Dismissed without prejudice. Brenda Goad, Assault 4th degree no visible injury, pleaded not guilty. Harassing communications, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 3/10/15. Rodney Lee Perry, Assault 4th degree no visible injury, pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 3/17/15. Travis Basham, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition shoplifting under $500. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 3/10/15. Joshua Wayne Smith, Alcohol intoxication in a public place 1st and 2nd offense. Pleaded guilty, fined $25. Total fines and court cost $209. Michael Fox, Wanton endangerment 1st degree police officer, fleeing or evading police 1st degree, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest. Failure to appear, bench warrant issued. $2500 cash bond.  Jason Andrew Dalton, 25, wanted for rape. Police are still 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 with two female victims (his nieces) 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 back in January 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  On Saturday, February 21st 2015, the Brownsville Police Department received numerous complaints of an underage party being held at 66 Dogwood Ave in Brownsville. Upon arrival, officers reported that contact was made with 25-30 people that were located at the residence including several juvenile subjects as well. Upon further investigation, a large quantity of marijuana and paraphernalia was located along with a substantial amount of alcoholic beverages. The following subjects were arrested stemming from the investigation: Cody Hennion, 20, Brownsville, was arrested and charged with unlawful transaction with a minor 3rd degree and illegal possession of alcohol in a dry territory, 1st offense. Cody Gordon, 18, Bowling Green, was arrested and charged with trafficking in marijuana greater than 8oz and less than 5lbs 1st offense, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia buy/possess. Michael Thomas, Bowling Green, was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Logan County. Zachary Hogan, 18, Brownsville, was arrested and charged with custodial interference. All arrested subjects were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. 
Marijuana, cash, and other drug paraphernalia found at the party. (BPD)
A Shepherdsville juvenile that had been reported missing for approximately 6 weeks was also located and taken into custody. The juvenile was returned to the custody of her parents.
The investigation was led by Officer Nathan Dennis and Officer Garth Avery, both of the Brownsville Police Department. Assisting in the investigation were Deputy Wally Ritter and Deputy Stoney Phillips of the Edmonson County Sheriffs Office. Edmonson Voice Staff  A message from Mr. Patrick Waddell, Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools:
Edmonson County Schools will be open and running on a one-hour delay for Wednesday, February 25, 2015. As you are certainly aware, the region experienced historic snowfall and frigid weather last week. Our State and County Road Departments have done a tremendous job of clearing our roads during this time. Unfortunately, our school district’s Transportation Department continues to experience problems with slick and/or inaccessible bus turnarounds on several roads throughout the county. Edmonson County Schools’ Bus Drivers and Maintenance employees have been monitoring the condition of roadways (especially areas with turnarounds) on a daily basis and will check critical areas again late this afternoon. Today’s sun and slightly-warmer temperatures have led to some clearing, but there are still turnarounds that will impact bus routes on Wednesday morning. Bus Drivers who serve families along these impacted routes will attempt to make contact with them between 5:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. tonight so that alternative pick-up and drop-off points may be arranged. Edmonson County Schools request your assistance during the remainder of this week as we work to resume school. Our plans at this time are to operate on a normal schedule for Thursday and Friday of this week (weather-permitting). 
FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 23, 2015) – Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, testifies before the House Committee on Labor and Industry on House Bill 206, which he sponsors. HB 206, which would exempt ministers and caretakers at small churches who work less than 10 hours per week from Kentucky's workers compensation laws, passed unanimously out of committee and goes to the full House for consideration. (Photo: Kentucky House Republican Caucus)
Edmonson Voice Staff The hot discussion today was about cold things last week--bitterly cold, and 12 inches deep. The snow that blanketed the county along with sub-zero temperatures affected everything in the county and the county offices. County Road Foreman Ray Page was the recipient of many compliments this morning as magistrates and other attendees credited him and his department for outstanding work over the past week. The same language and gratitude was extended to Page as was in Saturday's Edmonson Voice's piece "To Road Crews: EC Says Thank You." Page said it was a group effort from the entire department as workers fought through the snow and cold, working together without complaints. Judge Cannon noted how exceptional it was to have a crew work together so well under the adverse conditions without so much as even an argument over the past week. "Well, I didn't say we didn't have any arguments..." said Page as the court had a good laugh. Page also reported that due to melting snow and the recent rain, portions of roadways were under water in Cedar Grove, Blackgold Road, and Willie Webb Road. 
Magistrates discuss issues during today's Fiscal Court meeting. (D.Doyle)
The court also received a request from Ken Byrd, developer of Hidden Springs Subdivision, to accept Lauren Way (off of 743) into the county road system. The court formed a committee of Joe Durbin, Ray Page, and Clark Wood to review the request.
The hiring of a new Parks and Rec Little League Program Director also moved forward as the court agreed to advertise and receive applications for the position. The official application, job description, and full duties will be published in the Edmonson Voice soon. The court announced that it would be a part-time position paying $12,000 per year. The court also:
Sheriff Shane Doyle reported there was only one official accident report from the department during the recent hazardous road conditions, to which he also credited the county and state road crews. He discussed usage of a Humvee, acquired by the department through a military surplus grant from a couple years ago. Doyle said the vehicle helped stranded motorists throughout the week and was probably the only means of reaching an elderly resident who couldn't get down her steep drive, located approximately a mile and a half off a remote county road. EMS director Keith Sanders said the treacherous driving conditions made ambulance runs extremely difficult, having to access multiple patients with four wheel drives. He said ambulance crews worked around the clock for the first few days of the snowstorm, but were able to respond to all calls. The court then went into closed session for litigation purposes. Edmonson Voice Staff  FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 23, 2015) – Hazardous winter weather conditions halted legislative action in the House of Representatives last week; however, in the prior week, the engines of policymaking were running at full speed in the state House where a minimum wage increase bill and other major proposals moved another step through the legislative process.
On Tuesday, February 10th, a House bill to gradually raise the government-mandated state minimum wage from the current $7.25 an hour to a rate of $10.10 an hour by 2017 was approved in the House chamber by a vote of 56-43. The House did not approve a proposed amendment filed to the bill—House Bill 2—that would have changed the proposed wage increase to a rate of $8.00 an hour starting July 2015, with that rate adjusted annually for cost of living. Proponents of HB 2 believe it will provide a so-called living wage for minimum wage workers. Opponents, however, say the bill would hurt business—especially small business—in an economy that has still not fully recovered. Opponents also believe that the Commonwealth should focus on ways to bring more good paying jobs with opportunities for advancement to the state instead of focusing on jobs that pay a minimum wage because many are entry level position that offer valuable experience for advanced positions. HB 2 now goes to the Senate for consideration. Lined up for a House floor vote on Thursday were more than a dozen major House proposals, including two proposed changes to the Kentucky Constitution: HB 1, a proposed amendment that would give the state the authority to allow a local option sales tax vote to fund specific projects, passed the House on a 62-35 vote, and HB 70, a perennial proposal that would automatically restore voting rights to non-violent felons who have served their sentence, should the amendment receive statewide voter approval, passed the House 86-12. Following the passage of HB 1, the House also voted 57-38 to approve HB 344, which would set requirements for a local option sales tax levy should the proposed amendment allowing such a tax be approved during the November 2016 general election. If approved, HB 344 would take effect in January 2017. All three of the proposals now go with HB 2 to the Senate for consideration. Anyone affected by—or interested in–Kentucky’s growing heroin problem was paying attention Wednesday when a House anti-heroin bill cleared the House Judiciary Committee. HB 213, as amended by the committee, was passed on Friday of that week with strong bipartisan support. Provisions in the bill include: increased prison time for higher level heroin traffickers; criminal and civil immunity for first responders, like paramedics, who would be allowed to carry and administer the rescue drug naloxone in cases of heroin overdose; expanded mental health and drug treatment using savings from the state’s penal code reforms, and creation of a “Good Samaritan” rule to give legal protections to those who report an overdose, among other provisions. Other highly-publicized bills that passed the chamber the week before last include: HB 8, a bill that passed 98-0 on Thursday that would combat dating violence by allowing dating couples, for the first time, to seek immediate civil protective orders in Kentucky in cases of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or stalking while streamlining the protective order process for all victims; and HB 69, passed by the House on a 66-29 vote on Monday, would require most health plans to cover complete colorectal cancer screenings and tests without additional costs to the patient. Those bills are now headed to the Senate, too. Public pensions have been in the news quite a bit as recent General Assemblies have made budget adjustments to increase the required contributions to lagging public retirement funds. This session, a proposal to authorize up to $3.3 billion dollars in bonds to reduce the ever-growing $14 billion dollars of unfunded liability of the Kentucky Teachers’ Retirement System pension fund will be before lawmakers. HB 4 would authorize the Kentucky Asset/Liability Commission to issue up to $3.3 billion dollars in bonds to reduce the unfunded liability and use existing KTRS funds to pay down the debt on the bonds over 30 years. It will now need consideration of the full House, where it is expected to be brought to a vote sometime this week. In addition to the issues I mentioned, there could be ideas and concerns important to you that need to be addressed between now and the middle of March. I encourage you to contact me by e-mail at [email protected], or call our toll free number at 1-800-372-7181. District 19 Representative, Michael Lee Meredith Fire and Rescue personnel battled below-zero temps as they responded to a car fire this morning in front of Langdon's Auto Sales on Highway 259 in Sweeden. According to Kyrock VFD Fire Chief Mike Clubb, Amber Thompson was headed south on 259 when she noticed a burning rubber smell in her Dodge Durango. As she pulled over at Langdon's, the cab of the vehicle started filling up with smoke.  Jeff Club operates fire hose as Mickey Johnson (right) helps with traffic. (P. Prunty) No injuries were reported, but the Durango was a complete loss. The cause of the fire was not yet known. Along with Kyrock VFD, Edmonson County EMS also responded.
Edmonson Voice Staff Pat Prunty, photo  Effective at 3 p.m. today, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is urging Warren RECC and its members to reduce electric usage as much as possible. Artic temperatures are causing greater demands on the electric system, which could affect reliability.
Consumers are encouraged to take proactive steps that can lower power bills by reducing electric use. One of the simplest ways to do this is by turning down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat from 68 degrees to 67 degrees can result in a savings of up to 3 percent on a monthly bill. Other ways to reduce electric usage is to turn off or unplug all unnecessary electronics, battery chargers not in use, appliances, lights, space heaters, computers, TVs, etc. Be prepared before an event occurs by having an alternative heat source or be ready to move to another location. The elderly, or those who use medical equipment powered by electricity, should have another source of power available. To report power outages in Warren County, call 843-9710; outside Warren County, call toll-free 1 (888) 604-4321. Most everything was still quiet today throughout the county, although many enjoyed the sunshine while clearing sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. State and county maintenance crews continued clearing roadways all day after many worked through the night. 
Above: A panoramic photo from Nolin Dam. Much of the lake was frozen. Photos by Clicks McGee
Most everything not emergency-related will remain closed in Edmonson County tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17th, but here is the latest list that we have: Edmonson County Schools, closed. All county-run offices are closed. Emergency personnel will be on call. All Brownsville city offices, closed. Edmonson District Court, closed. Bank of Edmonson County, closed.  Clicks McGee, Edmonson Voice Local authorities still advise you to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. State and county road maintenance vehicles will continue working to clear routes throughout the county. In the event that you must drive during the dangerous conditions, Kentucky State Police are offering driving and emergency tips.
“Winter weather provides new challenges and responsibilities to the public and the Kentucky State Police,” says KSP spokesman Sgt. Michael Webb. “We ask drivers to be prepared to meet the challenges of the upcoming winter driving season. Plan ahead, be sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, drive defensively and ensure their vehicle is properly maintained to handle the effects of cold temperatures.” KSP reports that slippery roads were the contributing factor in 26,427 crashes in 2014. Here are a few simple steps to help keep you on the road and less stressed:
Edmonson Voice Staff Most of the county looked like a ghost town today as the area saw anywhere from 9-12 inches of snow. We are still gathering closings and other emergency info, but for now, please enjoy the photo slideshow of different communities today. Darren Doyle, Photos
Even though most everyone relies on common sense during winter weather and cold temperatures, there are also hidden risks often forgotten about, like carbon monoxide poisoning from improper use of alternative heating sources to heat homes. Also, the risk of hypothermia is high from
individuals not properly dressed for cold temperatures. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning . Don't use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement or garage or near a window. . Don't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open. . Don't burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't properly vented. . Don't heat your house with a gas oven. . Seek prompt medical attention by calling 911 or the Kentucky Regional Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, have a headache, chest pain or are feeling nauseous. . To install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall for daylight savings time. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911. Hypothermia . Hypothermia can result when the body's temperature drops below what is necessary to maintain normal bodily functions. In severe cases or when the body is not warmed properly, death can result. . To prevent hypothermia, wear appropriate clothing and limit the time you spend outdoors. Layer clothes made of synthetic and wool fabrics, which are best for keeping warm. Remember to wear hats, coats, scarves and gloves. . Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, altered speech pattern, abnormally slow rate of breathing, cold pale skin and lethargy. Seek medical attention if you experiences signs of hypothermia. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. With the reports of the anticipated snow storm the Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green would like to advise every one of some helpful tips for the upcoming conditions.
First and foremost, if you do not need to be on the roadway when it is hazardous, please stay at home. If you must get out, make sure you have some items in your vehicle in case you become stranded. For example; non-perishable foods, waters, extra layers of clothing, blankets, jumper cables, a fully charged cell phone, etc. While driving on hazardous roadways, travel at a safe speed; the posted speed limit is for perfect conditions. Make sure you give plenty of distance between you and other motorists and allow greater distances for stopping. For KSP driving tips go to www.kentuckystatepolice.org/winterdriving.htm. But, remember that the best advice we can give on driving in these conditions is to choose not to. If you do not have to be out, be safe and stay at home. We also ask that if you wish to check the current road conditions that you dial 511. Please do not call 911 just to get road conditions; it is there for emergency situations only. During these types of incidents our dispatchers take on a heavy call volume due to the nature of the conditions, which is what makes 511 such a valuable resource. (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is cautioning motorists about the impending winter storm that will enter the state later tonight. A mix of freezing temperatures and snow will make traveling conditions very difficult over the next 24 hours. Citizens are asked to refrain from contacting local posts about current road conditions. Instead they should call 1-866-737-3767 (#511 from cellular phone) or utilize www.511.ky.gov. KSP is requesting travelers to observe for potentially stranded motorists. If you see or suspect that someone is stranded, please call 911 or contact the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555. DECA, a career and technical student organization, held it's annual regional meeting yesterday at WKU in Bowling Green. Mrs. Teresa McClintic, ECHS business and marketing teacher, and local DECA club sponsor, described it as a co-curricular club that closely relates to the Marketing Program at ECHS. The classes and club are helping prepare students for careers in the in marketing, finance, hospitality and management fields. This year, one local student, Josie Thomas, was elected as Regional Vice President for Public Relations. This allowed Mrs. McClintic the opportunity as sponsor to prepare her club for the regional competition. In yesterday's competition, all ECHS students placed 4th or higher in 15 different categories, which qualified them for state competition.
"The students participated in real world experiences by interviewing with business professionals around the region, Mrs. McClintic said. "The students that participated in region were a great group of kids and I'm thrilled to see them succeed in their efforts." She went on to say that students who compete at state competition will be given real world scenarios, will create plans or solutions, and then present them to a panel of judges. Congratulations to our Edmonson County students and good luck at the state competition.
Darren Doyle Granville Meredith, contributor  The Edmonson County Board of Education met February 9, 2014. Edmonson County 5/6 Center Principal Alan Talley presented the following students with Certificates of Appreciation: Pictured left to right: Mr. Alan Talley, Ava Lich, Gavin Rose, Macie McCombs, Rebecca Ashley, Alaina Alexander. (Not present: Amelia Allen) (ECBE)  Above: Superintendent Patrick Waddell presented Board Member Tonya Jones with a Certificate from Kentucky School Boards Association for completing Level 1 Training. (ECBE)
 Local police are investigating several recent burglaries in the county and request help from the public. Several days ago Sherryl Vanacker reported a Glock 19 9mm pistol stolen from her residence in Rocky Hill. The pistol featured a "muddy girl" camo pattern.
Another firearm theft was reported in Sweeden by Derrick Childress. Police say a Beretta 92 9mm pistol with a black finish along with a New England Firearms 12GA Pump Shotgun was taken from Childress' residence. Police say that burglars easily gained entrance to the homes and warn homeowners to make sure all doors and windows are properly secured and locked at night or when not at home. It is presently unknown if the thefts are related. Sheriff Shane Doyle said that unfortunately the days of leaving our homes and cars unlocked are gone. "Keep your property secured at all times," he said. "Also, pay attention to anything suspicious in your communities. Deer and wildlife cameras are also a fairly inexpensive and efficient way to keep an eye on things when you can't." If you have any information regarding these burglaries, please contact 270-597-2729. EV Staff  Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2015.
The Hon. Judge Renona Carol Browning, presiding. Aaron Seth Bevins, Operating a motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, 2nd offense. Driving on DUI suspended license, 1st offense. Continued for 2/24/15. Michael Todd Ashley, Careless driving. County Attorney: traffic school, review on 4/7/15. James L Watson, Speeding 16mph over limit. Cont. to pay. Robert A Hazwelwood Jr, No/Expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Proof shown. Mark E Stowe Jr, Speeding 17mph over limit. Paid in full. Richard O Lindsey, Speeding 10mph over limit. Continued to 2/24/15. Darisa S Hardiman, Speeding 10mph over limit. Failure to appear. Notice sent to Dept of Transportation. Steven L Todd, Harassing Communications, pleaded not guilty. Harassment (physical contact) no injury. Pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed, pre trial conference for 2/24/15. Jared Sherrard, Failure to report traffic accident. Pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 2/24/15. Sarah A Coomer, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 3/10/15. Steffen Meredith, Possession of marijuana, pleaded not guilty. Drug paraphernalia, pleaded not guilty. Pre trial conference for 3/10/15. Lindsey N Trulock, Drug paraphernalia. Pleaded guilty. Possession of marijuana, pleaded guilty. 45 days in jail, all but 2 days suspended for 2 years on no similar offense, for each charge, sentences concurrent. Court cost $154, show cause hearing set for 3/24/15. Jenny Sams, Theft by deception, including cold checks (two counts). Pleaded not guilty on both counts. Pretrial conference for 5/15/15. Steven L Todd, Harassment, no physical contact. Pleaded not guilty. Harassing communications, pleaded not guilty. Terroristic threatening, 3rd degree, pleaded not guilty. Public attorney appointed, pretrial conference for 2/24/15.  Ronnie Lane, 50 (Hart Co. Jail) Acting on an anonymous tip, police apprehended a man wanted on multiple drug and drug-related charges. Ronnie Lane, 50, was indicted in December for possession of controlled substance in the first degree-second offense, firearm enhanced, possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, firearm enhanced, and persistent felony offender in the first degree. Lane was out on bail and has been on the run until Wednesday night.
Led by Deputy Jordan Jones, police found Lane hidden in the attic at a house located at 1094 Noah Bledsoe Road. Lane surrendered without incident and was found with various prescription medications and a syringe loaded with what appeared to be meth. In addition to the previous charges, Lane was also charged with possession of meth, possession of controlled substance (codeine), and possession of drug paraphernalia. Jones was assisted by Sheriff Shane Doyle, and Brownsville PD Officers Garth Avery and Nathan Dennis. Lane was lodged in the Hart County Jail. Edmonson Voice Staff  Rickey Stephen Brooks 35, Glasgow (Hart Co. Jail) Update: A violent home invasion at the home of Harlin and Reneva Tarter has resulted in multiple felony charges for Rickey Stephen Brooks, 35, of Glasgow. Police have charged Brooks with 1st degree burglary, 2nd degree assault, 1st degree criminal mischief, 1st degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, 3rd degree assault of a police or parole officer, and disarming of a peace officer.
We spoke with the victim, Harlin Tarter today. “It was quite an ordeal,” he said. Tarter said he had no idea why the man picked his home and property. “I looked out the window and he was driving through the field. He’d make a donut then drive through the fence into the yard and make another one. He was running back and forth through the fence doing donuts.” Tarter said he ran outside and tried to stop the truck, but Brooks acted like he didn’t see him and continued to destroy Tarter’s property. “I knew I had to try to stop this guy somehow,” he said. That’s when he grabbed a shotgun. “I figured if this guy saw me with a shotgun, he’d leave. Well…he didn’t, he just kept tearing up all my stuff." Tarter said each pass that Brooks made, he fired at the body of the truck, attempting to stop him anyway he could. “He didn't even act like it fazed him,” he said. Tarter said Brooks then stopped, got out and began yelling. Tarter said he told Brooks he didn't want to hurt him, he just wanted to stop him and for him to leave. “I thought I was getting through to him, but that’s when he started towards me.” Tarter said Brooks hit him without warning. “I busted him one pretty good, too.” Tarter said. At that point, Tarter said that Brooks went back out in the field and laid down. “I just told him to get out of here, He said I’ll leave, but I’ll be back.” It was then Tarter said he got back in his truck and began driving all over the yard again, crashing into a nearby tree. According to Tarter, Brooks got into Tarter’s truck, which was in the driveway with the keys inside, started it up and began spinning the tires. That’s when Tarter called the police, and grabbed a rifle. Police arrived within minutes but Brooks had already forced his way into the home when they got there. Police reported that Brooks was heavily intoxicated and violently resisted, trying to grab both Tarter's rifle and one officer's weapon, but was subdued and taken into custody. Apparently Brooks was so drunk, he didn't know where he was, nor why he was there. Tarter said, "I asked him if I'd ever wronged him in any way. I told him if I had, I'd make it right with him. I'd never seen him before, he just wanted to fight." Tarter said he was glad the situation didn't end up any worse. "The 'ol boy's got some problems he'll have to deal with, but it ended up as well as it could have, I guess. It's a wonder he didn't get killed. I've got some bumps and bruises, but I'm ok." Sheriff Shane Doyle said that the situation could have gone many different ways, and far worse than the ending result. "According to the clinical report from TJ Samson Hospital, obtained with Brooks' permission, Brooks had a BAC of .225 at approx. 5:30 pm," said Doyle. "This is more than 3 times the legal limit, and a few hours past when the incident took place." He said when alcohol or drugs are involved, a bad situation can quickly turn disastrous. "In my nearly 11 years of law enforcement, I can say you never really know what someone under the influence of a drug or alcohol is capable of." Doyle also said that both Tarter and the sheriff's office would have been justified with the use of deadly force, but thankfully it wasn't necessary in this incident. "Mr. Tarter was absolutely justified in his use of deadly force using his shotgun on the truck. He would have been justified as well when Mr. Brooks entered his home. Also, either Deputy Ritter or myself would have been justified in the use of deadly force because of the rifle that Brooks had his hand on when we entered the home. The situation played out that neither Tarter, Ritter, or myself felt that it was the last option we had, so we chose not to use deadly force. No one wants to do that. With all of the negative press that police have gotten all over the country, situations like these prove that cops aren't just trigger happy people seeking to inflict violence on others." So when can someone use deadly force? It's been the focus of many debates recently across the country. "I feel that Mr. Tarter absolutely acted appropriately," Sheriff Doyle said. "We never know how we'll react to a situation like that until it happens to us. Kentucky has something called the "Castle Doctrine". It basically means that our home is our castle, and no one has the right to deprive us of our feeling of safety and security at our home. If someone comes to your home and is placing your life or health in danger, you can respond with appropriate force. This could have gone a thousand different ways. The way it ended was the best possible outcome." Darren Doyle, Edmonson Voice BREAKING NEWS: A home invasion occurred today at the residence of Harlin and Reneva Tarter of Silent Grove Church Road, resulting in multiple charges against Rickey Brooks, 35, of Glasgow. Police say that Tarter was working in his home office when he heard an unfamiliar sound coming from outside his house. Tarter then saw Brooks, who was driving a Toyota pickup, driving erratically through Tarter's back yard, spinning tires, doing donuts, and damaging property. Tarter immediately called police, but seeing immediate danger, he armed himself with a shotgun. As the out-of-control truck continued and came closer to his home, Tarter fired multiple shots at the truck, peppering the vehicle with bird shot.
Police reported as Tarter saw that the driver was not slowing down, nor changing his behavior, Tarter feared for his life and grabbed a 30.06 rifle. Brooks, however, was already making his way into the home and attacked Tarter. Police say a fight then ensued between Brooks and Tarter as Sheriff Shane Doyle and Deputy Wally Ritter entered the residence. Both officers intervened and quickly subdued Brooks.
Police said that Brooks was either likely under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol or even worse. There is no known relationship between the two men, and the incident seems to be completely random. There will be a number of felony charges against Brooks, not all are known at this time. Tarter was taken to the Medical Center in Bowling Green by Edmonson County EMS as a precaution, but didn't seem to have any serious injuries at the time of the incident. Brooks was taken to TJ Sampson Hospital in Glasgow, and upon release will be lodged in the Hart County Jail. We will have more information as the investigation continues. Darren Doyle, Edmonson Voice |
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