Edmonson Voice Staff
The Edmonson County Sheriff's office responded to a call of an overturned truck at the junction of KY HWY 187 and Cedar Grove Church Road on Saturday, February 27, 2016. Deputies that while en route to the accident scene, they received a call that the person involved in the accident was seen walking along the side of the road, but returned to the scene before law enforcement arrived. The Sheriff's office said when they arrived at the crash site, they found Jason Howell, 40, lying in the road as other emergency personnel tended to the scene. According to officials, Howell told deputies he was a passenger in the vehicle and the driver had fled. Deputies said they searched the area and found no evidence of anyone else being in the truck or the area. They also said the driver's side airbag had deployed and that Howell had a burn mark on his forehead consistent with an airbag burn. Officials also said the passenger's side airbag did not deploy, and that Howell showed multiple signs of intoxication. The truck, a 2016 Toyota Tacoma, had been rented in Howell's name, according to officials. Deputies said after further investigation, Howell was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Careless Driving, and Possession of Open Alcohol Container in a Motor Vehicle. Howell refused medical treatment at the scene and was eventually taken to Hart County Jail. Responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Edmonson EMS, and Bear Creek Fire Department.
0 Comments
Edmonson Voice Staff Emergency personnel responded to a call on Harvest Lane in Bee Spring on Friday night, Feb 26, where a man accidentally shot himself in the hand. Sheriff's deputies said they found John Downs, 51, with a gunshot wound to left hand and forearm. Deputies said that according to Downs, he was holding a 9mm semi-automatic pistol in his right hand with his left hand in front of the barrel. Reports said the Downs told them that as he attempted to "rack" or "cock" the weapon, the pistol discharged, where the bullet entered his palm and exited his forearm. Deputies said that Downs showed several signs of being under the influence of narcotics and deputies found a straw and other suspected drugs along with what appeared to be crushed pills and evidence of where the substance had been snorted. Deputies then requested a search warrant and after it was granted, they reported they found multiple firearms and drug paraphernalia in the house. Jeffery Saling, 36, of Bee Spring was arrested on site and charged with Convicted felon in possession of a handgun. John Downs was not arrested on site, but transported to Twin Lakes Regional Hospital in Leitchfield, then transferred to Jewish Hospital in Louisville where deputies said he was released from the hospital the next day. Deputies said Downs could face multiple charges that will be presented at the next Edmonson County Grand Jury, including felony wanton endangerment and possession of controlled substance charges. Also responding to the scene was Edmonson EMS. Dr. Ben Carson, Republican candidate for president, will campaign in Lexington on Monday morning, February 29, in advance of the Kentucky Republican Presidential Caucus on Saturday, March 5.
Information about the townhall with Dr. Carson be found at https://www.bencarson.com/events. Donald Trump, Republican candidate for president, will also campaign in Louisville on Tuesday afternoon, March 1, in advance of the Kentucky Republican Presidential Caucus on Saturday, March 5. Information about the Trump campaign event can be found at http://www.donaldjtrump.com/schedule. Information about the March 5th Kentucky Republican Presidential Caucus can be found at rpk.org/caucus. Kentucky Republicans will cast their votes for Republican candidates for president at a caucus on Saturday, March 5. The caucus, which is run by the state Republican party and county parties, replaces the usual presidential primary in May. By holding a caucus on March 5, Republican voters in Kentucky will have more influence on the presidential race, at a time when candidates are still competing to win more states and their delegates to secure the presidential nomination. On March 5, Republican voters will come to caucus locations anytime between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to vote for a Republican candidate for president by secret paper ballot. The voting process will be similar to a Kentucky election--voters will show identification, sign in, and vote by secret ballot--but the voting locations are different. Most counties have a single caucus location, while some of the most populous counties have multiple locations. Republican voters can determine their caucus location, and find additional information about the caucus, at the Republican Party of Kentucky's caucus website, rpk.org/caucus. Eleven presidential candidates filed to participate in the caucus, all of whom will remain on the ballot. Voters will be notified at caucus locations about which candidates have dropped out of the race. The Republican presidential nomination is the only race that will be voted on at the caucus. Primary elections for local, state and Congressional races will still occur in May. Voters who were registered as Republicans by December 31, 2015, are eligible to vote in the caucus. Edmonson Voice Staff On Wednesday, February 24th, 2016, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office responded to a residence on Morgantown Road where they received a call of a burglary. Sheriff Shane Doyle said that after arriving with officers from the Brownsville Police Department, they found that a rock had been used to smash in a rear door of the residence belonging to Gary and Nicole Arredondo. Doyle said that several guns and knives were taken from the home, along with some cash. He also said the burglars completely ransacked one of the rooms. Doyle said they found some evidence on scene, and there is a possible suspect. The burglary is still under investigation. If you or someone you know has any information regarding this case, Sheriff Doyle urges you to call his office at 270-597-2157. Edmonson Voice Staff Emergency personnel responded to a rear end collision at the junction of KY HWY 259 N and Sanders Road in Bee Spring around 3:30pm on Tuesday, February 23. Officials said James Woodcock, 60, of Bee Spring was stopped on 259 in a '94 GMC Sonoma, waiting for traffic to clear so he could turn left onto Sanders Road. Officials also said that Miranda Vinson, 23, of Leitchfield, driving a 2002 Mazda SUV, was headed north on 259 and reportedly didn't see Woodcock, and collided with the rear of his truck. Deputies said that there was a 2x4 in the bed of the truck that shot through the back glass and struck Woodcock in the head. He was transported to the Medical Center where he was treated and released. Vinson was reportedly not injured. Both vehicles were severely damaged in the wreck. Responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Kyrock Fire Department, and Edmonson EMS. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016. The Honorable Judge Renona Carol Browning presiding. Jason L Dague, Speeding 26mph over speed limit, Failure to produce an insurance card, Improper passing, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, aggravator, 1st offense, Fleeing or evading police 1st degree (vehicle), Fleeing or evading police 1st degree (on foot), Wanton endangermant 1st degree, Wanton endangerment, 1st degree police officer, Possession of controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense (meth), drug paraphernalia, buy/possess, Resisting Arrest. Pleaded not guilty to all charges, preliminary hearing 3-1-16, public attorney appointed. Jason L Dague, Fugitive-warrant not required. Extradition hearing 3-1-16. Robert D Darding, Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Endangering the welfare of a minor. Pleaded not guilty to both. Pretrial conference for 3-22-16. Bret A Higgs, Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference 3-22-16. Dylan M Stuckert, Speeding 26mph or greater over limit, No/expired registration plates, No/expired KY registration receipt, Failure to produce insurance card. Reckless Driving. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 3-8-16. Thomas M Minton, Speeding 15mph over limit. Pleaded guilty, fined $30. Total fines and costs, $173. Jason Wayne Howell, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license. Amended to No license in possession. Pleaded guilty, Fined $50, total fines and costs, $193. Edmonson Voice Staff
John Wayne Smith, democratic candidate for District 19 State Representative, retired Colonel in the Kentucky National Guard, and the former Director of Bluegrass Challenge Academy was found guilty last week in U.S. Magistrate Court of failing to report child abuse, announced United States Attorney John E. Kuhn, Jr. Smith, a Smiths Grove resident, lost an election in 2014 to republican Rep. Michael Lee Meredith from Brownsville but decided to run again in the upcoming election. Following a three-day trial, a federal jury deliberated approximately two hours before finding John Wayne Smith, 65, guilty of the charge. Smith was charged in a federal superseding indictment on April 22, 2015, with violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 2258. On October 2, 2014, Smith denied the allegations in a statement to the Edmonson Voice, while at that time, he was a democratic candidate for the 2014 State Representative race. While several democrats urged him to drop from the election, Smith remained in the race where he was defeated by Rep. Meredith. Smith gathered only 37.6% of the vote compared to Meredith's 62.4%. According to the evidence presented at trial, from 2003 to December 2013, Smith was the Director of Bluegrass Challenge Academy, a quasi-military school for students at-risk of not finishing high school. The Academy is located on Fort Knox military base. The charges said that in early-February 2013, Smith learned that a 17-year-old female student at the Academy had alleged Stephen Miller, one of the staff members, forced her to engage in inappropriate sexual contact. Charges also stated that around the same time that Smith also learned that another female student had accused Miller of touching her inappropriately. There was an internal investigation and Miller was reprimanded, but continued to work at the school, where his office was on the same hall where the female cadets showered and slept. Smith did not report the matter to law enforcement or child protective services. Law enforcement only became aware of the allegations through the investigation of an August 2013 incident, in which another female student accused a staff member of further sexual abuse. In July 2015, Stephen Miller pleaded guilty to conduct related to both February 2013 incidents, as well as the August 2013 incident. Before Smith hired Miller to work with female students at the Academy, Miller worked as a police officer in Leitchfield, Kentucky. He resigned the position following complaints of inappropriate conduct toward two women. On February 1, 2016, Miller was sentenced to 48 months for conduct related to four separate incidents at the Academy. Smith is scheduled to be sentenced on May 19, 2016. He faces a sentence of up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. On January 26, 2016, Smith filed to run again for District 19 Representative against Rep. Michael Lee Meredith, which will be held in November of this year. Meredith had no comment on the guilty verdict. A statement made on Smith's Facebook page said, "As I now await sentencing, or the potential for an appeal in the case, I still can say nothing else regarding the case! Others involved, or not involved, are under no such restrictions! Please reserve any final personal judgement you may be feeling until such time as you hear the entire story!" Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda E. Gregory and Stephanie M. Zimdahl are prosecuting the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with assistance from the Army Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation. (Scottsville, KY)- The Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green received a call from the Scottsville Police Department Tuesday night at approx. 7:27 pm in reference to a call they received of a report of a gunshot victim at 401 Orange Street in the limits of Scottsville. When Officers arrived on scene they did discover a male subject with a gunshot wound. The preliminary investigation indicated that there was an altercation between Ernest Matt Davis (30) of Scottsville and Kalob Carter (25) of Adolphus, who were brother-in-law’s, that resulted in Mr. Davis being shot. Davis was transported to the Medical Center in Bowling Green by the Allen County EMS where he was then transported to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Mr. Davis passed away at the hospital and was pronounced deceased at 10:01 pm. Kalob Carter was arrested and lodged in the Allen County Detention Center and charged with Manslaughter 1stDegree. The investigation is still ongoing and being led by Detective Jason Lanham. The Kentucky State Police was assisted by the Scottsville Police Department, Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Allen County EMS. In Frankfort, difficult budget work is ongoing as our caucus continues to research and deliberate. The two-year budget will be our blueprint for governing in tough financial times. Just like your family, state government must live within its means. Doing so, however, will require responsible spending. As any budget should, our plan will prioritize being good stewards of your tax dollars, while protecting the most vulnerable among us.
This week the Senate passed Senate Bill 1, an overhaul of the current education assessment standards. The bill provides a framework to limit government interference in how students are taught and tested, while focusing in on the four core areas of education: English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. I am eager to review this legislation, and pledge to work with the Senate to provide much-needed reforms to our public education system. The House also passed an education bill this week which would give public school teachers at least 60 minutes per school day for lesson planning and other “non-teaching” activities. Current law says teachers must have “additional time” for nonteaching activities, but allows school councils and school districts to determine how much time the teachers get. Under House Bill 107, schools would have to set aside 60 minutes per day for full-time teachers, with at least 120 minutes allotted to teachers each week for “self-directed” activities like planning, professional development, and outreach. The bill also provides flexibility for this time if a school week is less than five days. As lawmakers we know it is always part of our job to protect benefits for our active duty military and veterans at every opportunity. On Tuesday we voted 93-0 in favor of 3 pieces of legislation that would ensure our veterans and active duty military receive academic credit for military experience, help our veterans receive professional licenses based on their military training, and make it easier for our disabled veterans to open a business. Academic credit for military experience is provided in House Bill 127. While most Kentucky colleges and universities already provide academic credit for active duty soldiers and military veterans, HB 127 would require that a statewide policy be created and implemented to ensure that appropriate, uniform academic credit for military service and training be given to active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves or National Guard, and veterans. This week also saw the passage of legislation to allow some state college and university building projects to proceed without state budget authorization. House Bill 265 would allow state postsecondary capital projects funded with restricted funds, agency funds, federal funds or private funds to be exempt from the state budget process as long as the projects are approved by the college’s or university’s governing board and the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE). They must also be presented to the state legislative Capital Projects and Bond Oversight Committee. All of the project costs would be the responsibility of the college or university, not the state. House Bill 175, my peace officer bill, which passed the House unanimously last week, also passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously on Thursday morning. It will now head to the Senate floor for final passage. HB 175 was the first bill sponsored by a Republican to pass the House this session and is now poised to possibly be the first House bill to pass the Senate this session. As always, I welcome your comments and concerns on any issues facing our Commonwealth during the 2016 Regular Session. I can be reached through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181, or you can contact me via email at [email protected]. You can keep track of committee meetings and potential legislation through the Kentucky Legislature Home Page at www.lrc.ky.gov. Darren Doyle, story and photos County Road Foreman Ray Page gave more bad news regarding the trucks his department is dealing with, as more potential winter weather heads our way. Page reported that one of the snow plows received extensive damage to the blade and blade frame during the last storm, while a different truck lost an entire transmission. Page said his crew is currently disassembling parts from each disabled truck to come up with one working truck. "We'll have four trucks ready to go by Wednesday. That will be one shy of what we normally have, so if it snows again, it will take us longer to do our jobs because of it," he said. Page said there was no sense in replacing the transmission in the truck at this point in the season with the county looking at purchasing newer ones very soon. He also reported the county used a total of 75 tons of salt during the last storm and that there are 300 tons left in storage. Parks & Rec Program Director Greg Hudson reported that this season of little league basketball was nearing the end and sign ups for baseball and softball were underway. He said there were currently 250 kids signed up for this spring and hoped the number would greatly increase by the deadline at the end of the week.
Magistrate Edd Rich asked about the possibility of adding baseball and softball facilities at Bee Spring Park, as many residents in the northern part of the county would benefit. Hudson said that was in long term plans, but there were several issues at HWY 70 and Chalybeate Parks that needed to be addressed first, as that is where the leagues play and practice. Mag. Rich agreed and certainly understood the priority, but noted that an eventual addition to the Bee Spring Park would only help the league, and Hudson agreed. Hudson said lighting at both Chalybeate and 70 are outdated and need maintenance and repair now. He also said the drainage issue still remained at 70 but couldn't be properly repaired until it's completely dry, which wouldn't be until after the spring season is complete. Tourism Director Rhonda Clemmons reported that Blue Holler ATV Park still owed around $900 in Recreational Taxes that were due on January 15th, 2016, but said the park was closed. She referenced the park's Facebook page which says the park is out of business. She said another notice would be sent to the address of the manager she had previously dealt with. A post on the park's Facebook page said: "as of right now BLUE HOLLER is closed due to the land owner fearing the risk of injury is to great to continue to keep the park open. We will post any and all updates on this page as we are working on a solution to keep a park open in central ky." On Friday, 2/19/16 Deputy Jordan Jones graduated from the Dept. of Criminal Justice Training at Richmond, KY. He received nearly 900 hours of law enforcement training, ranging from legal training, firearms, driving, report writing, and investigations.
Jones trained at the academy for a total of 22 weeks, and during enrollment, he was allowed home only on Saturdays and Sundays. "The overall experience was good," Deputy Jones said. "It's training every officer needs in order to do our jobs the best we can. I'm very grateful to be back home with my family and to serve the citizens of Edmonson County." The Sheriff's Office now has six certified deputies, the most ever for an Edmonson County administration. "We're very proud to have Deputy Jones back home in Edmonson County," Sheriff Doyle said. "He's an absolute asset to our county." Deputy Jones previously served two tours in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army. Darren Doyle, story and photos Jim Brown, a field representative of Hellervik Oil Technologies, presented drawings of the proposed gas plant facility that they hope to bring to Edmonson County in a 9 acre area near the Industrial Park on 31W. Brown handed out copies of the drawings to the court as he discussed each one in detail. He says that there are over 990 natural gas wells in Edmonson County, found when drilling for oil. He also said the wells hold "trillions of cubic feet in gas." Browns also said the construction of the new plant would bring up to 25 new jobs in Edmonson County and that while Hellervik wanted a successful plant, wanted to focus on being a good community neighbor. Brown said that the plant will be a completely different configuration than the former Atmos Gas Plant in Rocky Hill that was recently disassembled. He explained that the newly proposed plant will have no nitrogen rejection tower, which is apparently what some say emitted a sticky residue on homes and property in Rocky Hill. He also said the compressors would be placed in acoustical suppression enclosures to reduce noise pollution and that the plant will be enclosed in a structure that will resemble a barn. Judge Wil Cannon said his main concern was the safety and well being of Edmonson County. "If someone is going to come in here and build a gas plant, I'd rather it be someone that shows interest in being a good community partner and a neighbor," he said. "So far, Hellervik has done a good job of showing us that, but the most important thing to this court is our citizens. We want to take care of our people." Brown said that Hellervik's attorneys were still researching the best methods for bonding options. The county is continuing the same process. Without industrial zoning, county government has no control over any new business coming to the county, nor it's location. Statewide Tornado Drill Tuesday, Feb 23, 9:17AM, County Recognizes "Severe Weather Awareness Week"2/22/2016 FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 17, 2016) – Partnering with Kentucky Emergency Management and the National Weather Service, Edmonson County Emergency Management recognizes Feb 22 – 28, 2016 is “Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kentucky.” Edmonson County Emergency Management Director Pat Prunty said, “Weather is always a threat in Kentucky: Already in 2016, Kentuckians have experienced historic snowfalls, and less than a week later, that was followed by risks of severe storms and tornadoes. It is important to ensure your safety and the safety of your family by plannig ahead and knowing what to do in the event that a severe weather or tornado warning is issued for our community.” As part of severe weather awareness activities, a statewide tornado drill is being conducted in conjunction with the proclamation. At approximately 10:017 a.m. EST, (9:17am local time) Tuesday, Feb 23, the National Weather Service (NWS), partnering with Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM), the Kentucky Weather Preparedness Committee (KWPC) and Kentucky Broadcasters Association (KBA) will issue a tornado warning test message. Outdoor warning sirens will sound across Kentucky communities; weather alert radios will activate; and television and radio stations and mobile devices will broadcast the alert – allowing the public the opportunity to practice tornado safety measures. The broadcast test message will emphasize this is only a test of the alert system. During the test alert, all Kentuckians, businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, educators and government agencies are encouraged to practice their tornado safety drill and update their emergency plan. Severe weather preparedness begins with knowing the risks:
If you do not have a tornado plan in place, consider these guidelines:
To conduct a tornado drill at home or work:
During severe weather, if you are caught outdoors and unable to seek indoor shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding. Remember, outdoor sirens are not designed to warn indoor inhabitants, and tornadoes also strike during the night. If you are asleep or don't happen to have a television or radio turned on when a severe weather warning is issued; battery-backed weather alert radios are always on and ready to sound an alarm. This is the most effective way to monitor severe weather watches and warnings at any time of day or night. Homes and businesses alike should have and should monitor weather alert radios, which automatically transmit NWS severe weather watches and warnings 24 hours a day. KYEM is offering an online survey form that each participant is encouraged to complete and submit. The results will be used to help determine the effectiveness of the drill and to identify ways to improve readiness and alert notifications. The survey, weather safety tips, helpful links and resources can be found on the KYEM website at: http://kyem.ky.gov where you can follow KYEMPIO on Twitter, like us on facebook and sign up for mobile alert messages. Additional information is on the National Weather Service’s website at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/#.VrTV3DH2Z9N . If inclement weather is in the forecast on Feb 23, the Statewide Tornado Drill will be rescheduled. Edmonson Voice Staff Local law enforcement set up a traffic safety checkpoint last night at KY HWY 70 near Riverhill and had been stationed only ten minutes when a late model pickup came through with two different license plates. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, when officers asked the driver about the plates, the driver, Jason L Dague, 34, Leitchfield, became nervous and acted suspiciously. Officers said he showed several signs of being under the influence. When the officers reportedly asked him to turn off the truck and exit the vehicle, Dague stomped the gas, spun tires, and a high speed pursuit began. Kentucky State Police, Edmonson County Sheriff, and Brownsville Police reportedly chased Dague into Grayson County at speeds in excess of 100mph. KSP post 4 in Elizabethtown and the Grayson County Sheriff's Office then became involved and troopers deployed spike strips where all four of Dague's truck tires were punctured. Officials said the Dague crashed in the yard of St. Anthony Catholic Church, in Clarkson, where he then fled on foot. He was captured about 100 yards from the crash site, according to officials Dague was arrested and also found to be wanted on a parole violation out of Indiana, in addition to being charged with:
Officials said they found what appeared to be meth inside the truck and that Dague appeared to be under the influence of meth. He was first transported to Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center then to Hart County Jail.
"This is why we conduct local traffic safety checkpoints with our local KSP and city officers," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "It's a valuable tool in fighting drivers under the influence and helping rid our county of drugs. Luckily, no one was hurt during the pursuit. We're glad that we have all local law enforcement agencies working together here, and that we also have a great working relationship with agencies in Grayson County, too." ECHS Senior Night Ceremony Slideshow: Basketball, Cheer, Band, And Archery Seniors, Families Honored2/20/2016 Laney Meredith, photos Seniors and their families of boys basketball, girls basketball, archery, cheerleading, and band were honored last night at Edmonson County High School at the 2016 Senior Night Ceremony. Enjoy the slideshow of all seniors recognized. Edmonson Voice Staff If you're like most Edmonson County residents, you have several questions regarding the 2016 Kentucky Republican Presidential Caucus. What is it? How does it work? Why are we having one? According to some experts, there are several advantages to a caucus over a regular primary, specifically regarding a Presidential nominee. What is it? The 2016 KY Republican Presidential Caucus for Edmonson County will be a local meeting where registered republicans (registered on or before December 31, 2015) in the county will gather at the Community Center in Brownsville, Saturday, March 5th, any time between 10am-4pm to vote for their preferred republican Presidential candidate. "First of all, the main fundamental difference between a a caucus and a primary, is that a caucus is planned and funded by a party and a primary is funded by state and local government," said Professor Scott Lasley, WKU Political Science Instructor and Chairman of the Warren County Republican Party. No taxpayer dollars are used to fund the Kentucky Caucus. According to KYCaucus.com, Sen. Rand Paul has paid $250K of the estimated $400-500K cost to hold the Caucus, and has pledged an additional $200K. Additionally, each of the 11 candidates who filed to participate in the caucus had to pay $15K each (for a total of $165K from candidates alone). All eleven candidates will appear on the ballot, however, a list of candidates that have dropped out by the caucus date will be provided to voters. Edmonson County Clerk Kevin Alexander said his office has received multiple calls from confused voters. "Our office isn't handling this like we do our regular primary and general elections," he said. "It's being handled by the state republican party which is represented by Edmonson County Republican Chairman Bob Kleier." Rep. Kleier said that much of it will work just like a primary election that everyone knows. Voters will still receive a paper ballot with the candidates listed and they'll be able to vote their choice, just like a primary. "One difference is, there won't be any computers," said Kleier. "It's going to be somewhat old-fashioned. Later that afternoon, the votes will be counted and sent to Republican Headquarters in Frankfort. Everybody still gets a vote, it will just be at one location." Why a caucus instead of a primary? Senator Rand Paul initiated the Kentucky Caucus due to a state law that would prohibit him from appearing on the primary ballot as both a Presidential and U.S. Senate candidate at the same time. Although Paul is now out of the Presidential race, he wanted to see what kind of support he could gather, but still have the option of running for senate if his support ran out in the bigger race. Many Kentuckians have expressed that they feel as if Paul will serve Ky better as senator rather than President. "Our caucus is strictly for the purpose of the Presidential nomination process," said Prof. Lasley. "It's also an effort to try to move Kentucky up in the process. With a May primary, we've been largely ignored on the republican race for a long time. In the past, the nominee had already been decided by then. If the process were moved up to March, the question becomes, can it also attract more interest and more candidates coming to the state?" Presidential candidates usually spend more time in states with caucuses rather than primaries, and some feel that the same could be the case here. Kentucky's winner in the March caucus could have an effect nationally in this year's election, simply by grabbing more attention. District 19 State Rep. Michael Meredith said he also felt like KY had more potential to influence the national race. "It does take more effort and a capital investment from the state part," he said. "But, we could be much more influential. Kentucky's results in March means much more than a primary winner in May." How will it work in Edmonson County? The biggest differences are
Registered county democrats will not vote in a caucus and will vote for a democratic Presidential candidate on the ballot in the May 17, 2016 primary. There will still be a Republican primary in May Although the republican primary ballot will only contain a U.S. Senate race, republicans will still vote on Tuesday, May 17, 2016. County Attorney J.B. Hines, who is a local caucus volunteer, has noted that all county republicans voting in the caucus must have acceptable methods of identification to vote which can include: (1) motor vehicle operator’s license; (2) Social Security card; (3) credit card; or (4) identification card with picture and signature. If you have further questions, please visit the Republican Party of Kentucky's website at rpk.org/caucus. Edmonson Voice Staff The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office responded to a situation that involved a missing three-year old boy from the Cedar Springs community today, Feb 18, 2016. The sheriff said dispatchers received a call from a local man reporting that a Mr. Shannon Harrison called the man and requested his help finding a missing child. Harrison was apparently supposed to be babysitting the child with his wife, Robin. According to the sheriff's office, the caller stated he urged Harrison to call the police for help, but Harrison said he didn't want to because of being wanted on outstanding warrants. The sheriff's office said they then received a call from a neighbor that they had found the child in their home, and although dirty, that he was safe and healthy. Immediately after, officials said the mother of the missing child frantically called to report the child missing. "Thankfully, I was able to tell the mother that the child was safe and healthy, and that he would be returned immediately," said Sheriff Doyle. Sheriff Doyle said he and other deputies responded to the residence from which the child went missing, where they met the mother and the Harrisons. Deputy Amanda Coniglio retrieved the missing child, and returned him to his parents. Reports said that after Sheriff Doyle discovered Harrison's whereabouts, he and Deputy Jimmy Coniglio located Harrison, where Harrison was arrested without incident on two outstanding felony warrants for Contempt of Court, Libel/Slander, and Resist. This case is still under investigation, and could result in further charges, according to Sheriff Doyle. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 16, 2016. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. P Jay Gross, Unlawful possession of meth precursor, 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing 3/1/16. Kymbra L Gross, Unlawful possession of meth precursor, 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing 3/1/16. Johnny Lee Nolen, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs first offense. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Possession of marijuana. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 4/12/16. Sandra K Hurley, Two counts of theft by deception-including cold checks under $500. Pleaded guilty, 30 days in jail probated. Court costs of $184. Charles Ray Hayes, Harassment-no physical contact. Pleaded not guilty. Criminal trespassing-third degree. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 3/15/16. Donald Paul York, Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 3/1/16. Shauna Ford, Reckless Driving. Disregarding stop sign. Failure to wear seat belts. Instructional permit violation. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 3/1/16. Edmonson Voice Staff Police responded to another bizarre call today when the driver of a semi reportedly turned around in a driveway, smashed a block building owned by Bennie Duvall, then attempted to flee. Officials said that a caller witnessed the semi truck back into the building on KY HWY 259 N, turn around, and drive in the opposite direction at a high rate of speed around 2:39 this afternoon. Deputies caught up with the semi on Main Street in Brownsville and initiated a traffic stop in front of Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church. Officials said the driver, David T. Norris, of Montgomery, Alabama, was very upset and wouldn't say exactly what had happened, but claimed he was trying to avoid school buses. The Brownsville Fire Department was called out for use of their ladder to climb on top on the trailer to remove concrete blocks and other debris from the building. Norris was criminally charged for Careless Driving and Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Failure to Render Aid. Law enforcement said they pulled the semi over as quickly as they could in order to investigate and to remove the material on the trailer that were potential road hazards. It just happened to be on Main St. during the school rush, which caused traffic nightmares for quite some time. A man in the Riverhill Shopping Center told us that he saw the truck turn around in the center's parking lot just prior to the incident and hit the center's sign as he tried to return to the highway. The man said the driver had to back up and try it again multiple times to avoid the sign. Deputies also said that a female motorist reported that the semi pulled out in front of her which caused "defensive driving action to avoid a collision." "The driver claimed he got lost and tried turning around several times," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "No doubt, hitting the building was an accident, but it was obvious he was trying to flee the scene without being noticed. There were too many eyewitnesses to allow that to happen." Norris is a driver for Celadon Trucking Services in Columbus, Indiana. "He probably won't be for long," Doyle added. Edmonson Voice Staff The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office responded to a multiple vehicle parking lot fender-bender at Ronnie's Auto Service on Brownsville Road today when a roll-back tow truck lost traction in the slushy parking lot and hit a car dolly and three parked cars. Deputies said the truck was loaded with a vehicle, and as the driver attempted to pull out from the steep grade, it spun in the slush and gravel, then rolled into the equipment and other vehicles. That was interesting enough, however, deputies said that as they ran driver's license information on the driver, they discovered he was wanted in Jeffersonville, Indiana on several drug charges, including selling of methamphetamine, and possession of meth and marijuana. Deputies then arrested Roger Dale Cross, 47, of Louisville, Ky without incident on an outstanding warrant. He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail where he was awaiting extradition to Indiana. Superintendent Patrick Waddell has announced that Edmonson County Schools will be on a two-hour delay for Tuesday, February 16, 2016. It was 34 degrees this morning at 5am, but there were still eleven bus turnarounds that were still in bad shape. "Bus drivers are going to try to contact those parents and let them know to bring students out to a pick-up point," Waddell said.
Due to additional snowfall last night in the northern portion of the county, Edmonson County Schools will be running on a one-hour delay on Wednesday, February 17th, 2016.
via KSP KSP Troopers investigated a two vehicle, single fatality collision outside of Leitchfield on Sunday morning. Reports said that on Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 11:30 CDST, Dakota Powell (20) of Bee Springs was operating his 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse south in the 9000 block of Anneta Rd. (Ky. 259). Due to icy conditions, officials said he lost control of his vehicle and began to slide sideways and into the northbound lane. According to officials, Danny Kennemore Jr. (30 ) of Leitchfield along with Jamie Kennemore (26, front passenger) and a juvenile male (back passenger) were traveling northbound on Anneta Rd. (Ky. 259) and struck the vehicle driven by Powell in the passenger side. Dakota Powell was pronounced dead at the scene by the Grayson Co. Coroner’s Office. All the occupants in Kennemore’s vehicle were transported by ambulance to Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center with minor injuries. The accident is still under investigation by KSP Trooper Brandon Brooks. No other information is available at this time. Edmonson County School Superintendent Patrick Waddell has given an update on the latest road conditions for county school bus routes. He said workers have been monitoring roads all day and will continue to do so into the night. He said that crews will be out again starting at 3am in the morning to determine if school routes will be safe enough for travel tomorrow. "As of right now, we have 33 bus turnarounds that are not usable, due to icy conditions," he said. "We'll make a decision around 6am to determine whether to cancel, or to have a one or two-hour delay." He also added that he understands the frustrations of those who see the majority of the roads clear and question the cancellation of schools, but reiterated that secondary roads, turnarounds, and parking lots factor into the decision much more than the public might recognize. Waddell said the "One Call" will also be implemented in case of cancellation or delay. Darren Doyle, story The Edmonson County Sheriff's office responded to a drug complaint at a residence on E Poteet Road in the Mammoth Cave community Saturday night, February 13, 2016, that accused both residents of buying an oddly large amount of allergy medicine in pill form containing pseudophedrine. After interviewing both residents Porter "P.J." and Kymbra Gross, officers reportedly found a corner section from a plastic bag filled with the crushed pills in question. Officers also said they found several other items consistent with manufacturing methamphetamine in the residence. Both P.J. Gross, 35, and Kymbra Gross, 25, each of Mammoth Cave, were arrested for Unlawful Possession of a Meth Precursor 1st offense, and lodged in Hart County Jail. The case is still under investigation and officials said that more charges could be added at the next Edmonson County Grand Jury court session. "Pseudophedrine is a main component, and cannot be substituted in manufacturing methamphetamine," said Sheriff's Dectective Wally Ritter. "The drug is found in allergy and cold medicine to treat congestion. Psuedophede is considered a "meth precursor", and there are ways it can be unlawfully possessed. Compromising or tampering with it in order to use it for manufacturing meth; or possessing pseudophedrine with the intent for use to be used in manufacturing methamphetamine are both considered Unlawful Possession of a Meth Precursor."
Det. Ritter also said that due to the drug being so crucial in manufacturing meth, the federal government has set maximum amounts that can be purchased daily. He added that Kentucky and several other states have also passed legislation limiting the amount someone can purchase monthly and yearly. "Someone also must provide identification and sign when purchasing medicine containing pseudophedrine," he said. Sheriff Shane Doyle said the arrest was an excellent example of what proactive law enforcement can do. "Our officers have been investigating these subjects and many more for a while now, and with patience, we aim to stop every single meth cook, dope dealer, and persistent felon in our county," he said. |
Archives
November 2024
|