Darren Doyle, story: According to Edmonson County Judge Executive Wil Cannon, the county is facing a cost increase from $25 to $35 for daily inmates at the Hart County Jail, which is a hefty 40% increase for the same facility and services. Currently, the county does not have a local jail and must contract jail services to another county. Edmonson County currently pays $25 per day, per inmate to the Hart County Jail to house county prisoners. The county currently has 19 inmates lodged at Hart County Jail for a total cost of $475 per day. If the increase were to be put in effect today, Edmonson County would see an additional $190 cost per day, which is an additional $5700 per month, something that Judge Cannon says is impossible for the county to fund. "We'll simply have to rebid the contract," he said. "There's just no way the county can afford that right now, so it's a difficult situation." Cannon said the current contract price has been in effect for several years and that there has been no need to renegotiate. "We've had a good price at $25 per day for a while and that compared really well to our bordering counties. Obviously that's going up and we'll have to do something different." Several residents have argued that a better solution would be to simply build a jail within the county and reap the financial benefits of keeping the funds at home; however, Cannon said that's a misconception. "Some think we can just build a new jail here and all the problems will be solved, but that's really not an option either. We'd have to build a facility that would comfortably hold a minimum of 200 inmates which would cost hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars. We only have a yearly average of around 15-20 inmates per day, so we'd still be trying to pay for a facility that would actually cost more than the $25 or $35 per day that it costs now. There are only four jails in the state of Kentucky that are turning a profit and that's only because they're housing federal prisoners." Hart County Jailer Israel Bergenson said the jail is currently losing money on the Edmonson County contract and they have no choice but to raise the price.
"This contract was first made ten years ago," he said. "The cost of living and everything else over ten years is forcing us to increase the price. We're actually losing money on this contract right now. It's costing us at least $32 per day per inmate, so even with an increase to $35 per day we'll only be making a couple of dollars." Jailer Bergenson said the contract should've been renegotiated long ago but it was something that he said simply fell through the cracks. "Jails all over the state are struggling just to operate," he said. "We can't operate at this current price." Cannon said that the county will have until the end of the fiscal year to make a final decision, which is June 30th, 2017. "We're reaching out to other local jails to rebid the contract," said Cannon. "It could be a long process to work out details in a new contract, but the bottom line is we have to have a place to house inmates and we can't provide that here in Edmonson County right now." Cannon also said that the slow process of the court and legal system doesn't help matters and that other options to cut down on unnecessary jail time have been extensively researched. "We're doing more home incarceration now than ever for non-violent criminals, but those that participate in the program have to pay the fees associated with that. If they can't or don't pay the fees, we're stuck with the bill, so there's really no help there and we just can't start turning a bunch of inmates loose because of a high cost." Judge Cannon said that another jail option is being sought now and a solution will be found as soon as possible. All bordering counties currently have jails which include Butler, Grayson, Hart, Barren, and Warren.
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Darren Doyle, story: A Bloomfield, KY man is now facing charges after a felony arrest in an extended altercation with deputies during an incident in Cub Run yesterday. Deputies responded to a complaint where a homeowner on Logsdon Road near the Hart County line said there was a suspicious man carrying a bag who had been walking up and down the road then began wrestling with what appeared to be himself as he rolled around in the caller's yard. Neighbors said they'd recently had trouble keeping the unknown man off their properties and were afraid. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office said that upon arrival, one of the deputies simply asked the man for his name but the man cursed them out while refusing to give them any information or cooperation. Deputies said that when they tried to further investigate, a fight ensued and the man wouldn't follow any orders or instructions. Officials said that Michael Chesser, (40) Bloomfield, KY, was eventually subdued and handcuffed, but as deputies brought him to his feet he attempted to run away from the officers. He was quickly caught and placed in leg irons. Chesser was found to have an outstanding disorderly conduct warrant out of Hardin County that officials said was for an incident almost identical to what they'd just experienced. They also reported that Chesser was suspected to have been under the influence of a controlled substance. Chesser was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct 2nd degree, Resisting Arrest, and Assault 3rd Degree-Police or Probation Officer. He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Western Kentucky University has announced the students who were recently named to the Dean's and President's List, which included several former ECHS students and local residents. Students making the Dean's List have a grade-point average of 3.4 to 3.79 in a 4.0 scale. Students on the President's List have GPAs of 3.8 to 4.0 and are indicated by an asterisk (*). To be eligible for the either list, students must have at least 12 hours of coursework that semester.
Did you miss anything over the past week? Catch up with all the latest news and info in our weekly recap. Just click on any of the article links below:
Edmonson Voice Staff Report According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, local dispatch received a call on Saturday around noon where the caller said there was a driver passed out in a car on Noah Stevenson Road in Bee Spring. Deputies were given a vehicle description then dispatched to the area when officials said they met a car matching the description at a nearby intersection. The vehicle was reportedly stopped for failing to use a turn signal at the intersection where officials said they smelled a strong odor of marijuana inside the vehicle, driven by Erik Anderson, (23) of Bee Spring. Officials reportedly found crystal meth inside the vehicle along with various articles of drug paraphernalia. Anderson was arrested and charged with:
On February 8, 2017, Rep. Michael Meredith (left) assumed the chairmanship of the House Local Government Committee in Frankfort, Ky. He was joined by former chair, Rep. Steve Riggs (right), as the gavel was ceremonially passed on to him. The committee heard testimony from the Kentucky League of Cities and the Kentucky Association of Counties on their priorities for the 2017 Regular Session. Here, Rep. Meredith is seen convening the committee for the first time as Chairman. (photos courtesy HOUSE MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS)
Too often, our top news story of the day unfortunately is not good news, whether it be a fire, car accident, or worse, but today we thought we'd share this short video of beautiful skies over Brownsville. Certainly not breaking news, just nice views from our eye in the sky. Enjoy! In our effort to continually improve our network, we're always trying to add more features that more of our great readers will enjoy. We often receive suggestions from you and we've incorporated some of our most popular requests. One of the top requests has been a hometown hero-type of feature, or something that highlights a group or individual that has gone above and beyond a helping hand in our community. We're adding this new feature in March, called the "Edmonson County Next Door Neighbor." Each month, we'll choose an individual or group that has given back to Edmonson County in some way or another that exemplifies the true meaning of being a neighbor. It could be someone that volunteers on a regular basis, a church group, emergency worker, school worker or official, even a child. The only stipulation is that the person or group must have shown a considerable effort in giving back to Edmonson County in some way without any attempt to be recognized themselves. Do you know of a person or group that deserves recognition? Is there someone out there that needs a pat on the back because they always give back? Nominate someone today by emailing us at community@edmonsonvoice.com or by calling our office at 270-597-6550. Each month's Next Door Neighbor will be featured in a story on EdmonsonVoice.com and will receive a framed certificate from us and a sponsor. So don't wait! Let us know who you think should be featured as our very first Next Door Neighbor. There are many out there that deserve to be recognized for helping make Edmonson County what it is today. Darren Doyle, story: Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Patrick Waddell has announced that there will be no school on Friday, February 10, Monday February 13, and Tuesday February 14, 2017 due to illness in the school system. "Our attendance numbers bottomed out today to only 86%," he said. "We must stay at 88% in order to be able to carry on with normal activities." Waddell also said that a five-day period is needed to give those that are sick time to heal and for the rest of the serious illness to move on out. "We will use President's Day as a make-up and we'll add the other two days to the end of the school year. That puts the last day for students at May 19th as of now. Any other missed days will be NTI make-up days," he said. He also said that the Elementary Academic District Tournament scheduled for Saturday, Feb 11 will still be held. Also, Tuesday's high school girls and boys basketball games at McLean County will also remain on the schedule. "We hate to do this but we feel it's in the best interest of the school," Waddell said. The following is an open letter, written by Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle. The sheriff has asked us to publish this letter on behalf of the entire Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. To the Citizens of Edmonson County,
The past week, our office was honored to host a camera and production crew from the hit show "Live PD", which airs on Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm-11pm central time. I can say that although I was apprehensive at first about being followed by a crew of cameramen and producers, they couldn't have been more professional, and were absolutely wonderful people. I want to thank our citizens for their patience during the past weekend, as we chose to hold three separate traffic safety checkpoints targeting impaired drivers. Conducting these checkpoints and the time spent with the crew resulted in five arrests, confiscation of an illegal gun, the removal of several grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and pills of from our roads. We also stopped multiple intoxicated drivers and made arrests stemming from outstanding warrants. We also wish to thank A&E for covering the costs of overtime incurred, which prevented any additional costs to the county. My intentions in working with Live PD was to show the world that we have true professionals who do a wonderful job protecting and serving our county, while also letting folks know what type of fantastic citizens that we have here in Edmonson County. I'm proud of my county and what we stand for, and I'm proud of my department and the job they do. My hope is that you feel the same way. May God bless our county and our emergency workers. Thank you, Shane A. Doyle Edmonson County Sheriff Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 7, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. Lisa L Wingfield, Complicity to trafficking in controlled substance-first degree-2nd or more offense-more than 2 grams of meth. Possession of marijuana. Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess. Obstructed vision and/or windshield. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial hearing on 2/14/17. Spencer Harp, Trafficking in controlled substance-first degree-2nd or more offense-more than 2 grams of meth. Possession of marijuana. Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial hearing on 2/14/17. Tammy Lee Martin, No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Proof shown for both counts, both dismissed. Erin R Cline, Speeding 21mph over limit. Failure to produce insurance card. Failure to notify address change to dept. of transportation. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 2/21/17. Paul Mason Logsdon, Driving DUI suspended license-first offense-aggravator. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 9/5/17. Failure on non-owner operator to maintain required insurance-1st. Improper display of registration plates. No expired registration plates. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 4/4/17. Tammy Sue Meredith, By agreement: Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Deferred for 6 months on condition of no violation of DVO and no new charges. Sabrina Kristin Williams, By agreement: Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Deferred for 6 months on condition of no new charges. Amber B. Blake, Obstructed vision and/or windshield. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs-first offense. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 5/9/17. Casey D Costelow, Speeding 21mph over limit. Defer for 12 months. Christian L Dearman, Speeding 25mph over limit. No/expired registration plates. No/expired Ky registration receipts. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 2/21/17. Darren Doyle, story and photos: Local emergency workers responded to the junction of KY HWY 70 and 259 at the top of Riverhill earlier today where two vehicles were involved in a collision. According to Kentucky State Police, Tiffany Seaman (34) of Bowling Green, was traveling east on KY 70 in a 2005 Ford van when she attempted to stop at the junction of KY 259 but slid on wet roads through the stop sign. Officials said that Seaman's van struck a Nissan van being driven by Sabrina Williams (22) of Brownsville in the passenger side, who was headed south. Both vehicles came to rest on the shoulder of KY 259 facing south. Both Seaman and Williams were transported to the hospital via Edmonson EMS for non-life threatening injuries. Airbags were deployed in both vehicles and both women were reportedly wearing their seat belts.
In addition to KSP and Edmonson EMS, assisting at the scene was the Brownsville Fire Department, Brownsville City Police, Edmonson County Emergency Management, and the District 2 Constable. Darren Doyle, story: A recent road safety checkpoint in Brownsville resulted in several arrests and citations, some shown on A&E's "LivePD," with the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff's office reported that Amber Blake, (29) of Bowling Green came through the checkpoint on Saturday, February 4, in a vehicle that a deputy recognized as one associated with multiple drug complaints. Authorities said that Blake showed multiple signs of impairment and field sobriety tests were administered, some of which that were featured on the live television show. Officials said that Blake showed maximum signs of impairment during the field sobriety tests and was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. She was transported to Caverna Hospital for a blood test then to Hart County Jail where she was lodged. She was later released on bond. EV Staff Report: A recent feasibility study conducted by the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs said the greatest need for a veterans nursing home in the state is located in the region of south central Kentucky, a region that encompasses Bowling Green. Both Senator Mike Wilson (R-Bowling Green) and Representative Michael Meredith (R-Brownsville) have sponsored bills in the 2017 Legislative Session of the Kentucky General Assembly to address the issue. Both bills would move Kentucky up on the federal priority list for final approval, as it would illustrate the state has a vehicle for its share of the funding. “The need for a veterans nursing facility in Bowling Green is something we have talked about for years, so I was pleased to see this study reiterate that need,” Sen. Mike Wilson said. “I plan to work with Representative Meredith, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and my colleagues in the Senate to ensure a bill gets passed that will support those who have served our country.” Senate Bill 13 and House Bill 13 authorize the Department of Veterans' Affairs to use federal funds and bond funds in fiscal year 2016-2017 for the construction of the Bowling Green Veterans Center nursing home. The bills would also establish conditions and provide that if debt service is required, it shall be a necessary government expense to be paid from the General Fund Surplus Account or the Budget Reserve Trust Fund Account. “I have always been fully engaged on veterans’ issues to benefit the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our great nation,” said Rep. Meredith. “In 2016, I led the charge to require the state to provide the matching funds for a Veterans’ Nursing Home in Bowling Green, and ultimately hope the results of this study will help us in securing the funding. Sen. Wilson and I both understand the dire need that veterans have for more beds, better care, and accessible facilities in the Bowling Green area.” Both bills have been filed with an emergency clause, which means they go into effect immediately once passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor. The second part of the 2017 Legislative Session, which runs 25 days in February and March, begins Tuesday, February 7. For more information on the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs, visit their website: http://veterans.ky.gov/. Edmonson Voice Staff Report: The Edmonson County Middle School academic team won the KAAC Region 5 Governor’s Cup overall championship on Saturday, February 4, 2017, at Chandlers Elementary in Logan County. The team earned a total of 46 points, more than 20 points better than runner up Bowling Green Junior High School. The ECMS academic team placed first in quick recall, placed first in future problem solving, and placed in eight testing spots. Three ECMS players took top spots in testing events: Sarah Stewart, 8th grade, took first place in arts and humanities testing, Brody Johnson, 6th grade, placed first language arts and fourth in arts and humanities testing, Jonas Miller, 6th grade, placed first in social studies, Meredith Hennion placed second in language arts, Jon Smith placed second in mathematics, Gavin Rose finished second in social studies, and Arey Durbin placed fifth in arts and humanities. All of these students will compete in the KAAC Governor’s Cup State Finals. Head Coach Greg Grey discussed some of the keys to the winning performances. “The importance of testing to our team’s overall success cannot be stressed too much," he said. "Thirty of our total forty-six points came from testing. Both Brody’s score in language arts and Jonas’ score in social studies were among the top ten scores in the state in those events. Our success in testing is a testament to our hard work.” For the first time ever, the future problem solving team took first place in the region. The regional topic dealt with problems arising from 3-D printing in the future with biological applications of 3-D printing being the primary focus of regional competition. “Coach Nick Skaggs has taken our FPS program to the next level," said Grey. "Our FPS team understands the process better than ever thanks to his efforts. Our team is looking forward to the challenge of competing in the state FPS contest.” In quick recall, ECMS overpowered all of its competitors. In round one, ECMS defeated host school Chandlers, 49 to 8. ECMS outscored Glasgow Middle School 41 to 24 in round two of the quick recall competition, then moved on to face district rival Bowling Green in round four. EC took a commanding 21 to 4 lead by halftime and ended the game with a 36 to 25 victory. In the championship game, ECMS matched up against Glasgow, which would be much closer than the previous match. ECMS earned the quick recall championship with a 32 to 26 victory.
“This was another great day for the ECMS academic team," said a proud Coach Grey. "Our team excelled in all areas and our quick recall team turned in another dominant performance. We will be focusing all our efforts on state tournament now. We have high hopes for strong performance at the KAAC State Finals.” Darren Doyle, story and photos: The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office welcomed camera crews from the hit cable show "LivePD," on A&E hosted by Dan Abrams on Friday and Saturday to catch a live look at deputies and their work in Edmonson County. Shawn Myhand, associate field producer for the show and Michael Marashio, assistant camera, were gracious enough to allow us to give our readers a live look at the guys who give everyone else a live look on the show. They outfitted Sheriff Shane Doyle's vehicle with two cameras inside, one facing him and the other facing out the front. The cameras transmitted a live signal back to New York using 4G LTE data and the crew also used two different hand held cameras along with GoPro cameras. Crews rode along with the sheriff and deputies, recording footage throughout the day to use on the show while also going live to Edmonson County on several different occasions. "These guys have been great to work with," said Myhand. "This show is about the real lives of police officers and we try to let them tell their stories." Sheriff Doyle said that the experience was great for his office, but added that they just continued to do what they normally do. "I've always been outspoken with what kind of great people make up the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. When LivePD showed interest in coming here, I jumped at the chance because I truly believe our folks are some of the best and we're proud to show that to anyone," said Doyle. Doyle said the crews from the network were extremely professional and genuine. "I didn't really know what to expect from these guys when they came in here, but they've been great," he said. "These guys have been part of some really great shows and movies and it was fun to hear some of their stories, but they were just as interested in stories about our experiences as law enforcement officers." Myhand said people that aren't familiar with the show might compare it to COPS, but he said that it's not the same. "Other shows like that tend to focus on the bad guys, but we think this is a more legitimate look at the real stories of law enforcement officers. We don't focus necessarily on the bad guys, we're focusing on the officers." Myhand also said crews enjoy working with small towns and communities. "It's amazing to see how many people know these officers and the sheriff on a first-name basis," he said. "We keep hearing "hey Shane," or "hey there Joe," or whatever. You don't really see that in big cities; it's just random strange faces." The show's format starts in the studio with a host and two guests on a panel that look at several monitors behind them, each one showing a live crew with officers throughout the country. They discuss various situations and go live to particular ones when something happens that might be of interest. Tango was deployed earlier today and the live cameras switched to Edmonson County.
"The guys in New York love Tango," said Myhand. "We do, too. We all took time today to take photos with Tango and the rest of the guys." The Sheriff's Office made several drug, alcohol, and outstanding warrant arrests, thanks to the extended safety checkpoints made possible by A&E footing the bill for any and all overtime used by his office. Crews are planning to come back for more filming on Monday. "We've hit it off with these guys and we welcome them back," Doyle said. Edmonson Voice Staff Report: Law enforcement officials say multiple anonymous tips led to a traffic stop where several grams of crystal meth were located on Thursday. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office reported they received multiple tips that a black 2009 Hyundai and driver was involved in drug activity. Officials said they located the vehicle on KY HWY 743 near Pine Grove Presbyterian Church and a traffic stop was made for items in the windshield that appeared to be obstructing the driver's view. According to reports, the driver of the car, Lisa Wingfield, 35 of Brownsville told deputies that she was actually on her way to the sheriff's office to offer her help in an unsolved burglary being worked by local police. Deputies said that due to the many complaints regarding drug activity, Tango was deployed in and around the vehicle where he indicated illegal substances were inside. Deputies said that a small amount of marijuana was found inside the vehicle, then Tango indicated illegal substances on the passenger, Spencer L. Harp, 34 of Bowling Green. A search of the passenger led to the discovery of 9 grams of crystal meth, drug paraphernalia, and a small amount of marijuana, according to reports. Lisa Wingfield was arrested and charged with Trafficking controlled substance-first degree-first offense-greater than 2gms of meth (Class C Felony), Possession of marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Obstructed vision and/or windshield. Spencer L. Harp was arrested and charged with Trafficking a controlled substance-first degree-greater than 2gms of meth-2nd or more offense (Class B Felony), Possession of marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Both subjects were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. If found guilty, Wingfield possibly faces 5-10 years in prison while Harp could face 10-20 years. Each could see fines of up to $10,000. Darren Doyle, story and photos: A Wingfield salvage yard was heavily damaged today around 3pm when fire tore through the property owned by Billy Miller who lives near the Edmonson/Warren County line on HWY 1749. Smoke could be seen for miles as dozens of old vehicles, mobile homes, semi-trailers, and other various equipment burned in the blaze. Mr. Miller said he didn't know how the fire started. "It could've been a lot worse than it was," he said. "At least nobody got hurt and the fire was kept away from houses." Miller said at least one of the semi-trailers was full of building materials, which obviously served as plenty of fuel for the fire. Responding to the fire were the Wingfield and Richardsville Fire Departments, as well as Brownsville, Chalybeate, and Rocky Hill departments.
One of the cars in the salvage yard was a 1968 Mercury Comet that had the back end burned. "I was wanting to restore that," Mr. Miller said. "I don't guess I will now." Edmonson County Property Value Administrator (PVA) Kyle White has released the following legal notice to all Edmonson County property owners. White said all owners greatly benefit from staying informed about his office and the different options available to them. "The most common question we have is about the Homestead and Disability Exemptions," said White. "The amount has increased for the 2017-2018 tax years to $37,600. A taxpayer who qualifies can receive up to this deduction if they qualify for one of the exemptions. For homestead, you have to be age 65 anytime in 2017, own, and occupy the home. For disability, you have to be 100% disabled and currently receive benefits for the entire year of 2017, while owning and occupying the home. The full deduction equals around $325.00 in savings for the taxpayer."
Brought to you by the Edmonson County PVA Office of Kyle White, Edmonson County Courthouse, PO BOX 37, Brownsville, KY, 42210. 270-597-2381. Edmonson Voice Staff Report: The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office has officially signed the paperwork to be featured on A&E's "Live PD," which is a live-action look at law enforcement with different agencies around the United States. Hosted by Dan Abrams, who is also featured on ABC, the show sends camera crews alongside law enforcement officers nationwide to get a live look at situations they face on a daily basis. Sheriff Shane Doyle said the show has already featured the Warren County Sheriff's Office, and contacted him last week regarding his department. "The show contacted me and said they would be in our area," said Doyle. "They said there was a possibility that if any of our officers were called in for backup to Warren County they might be on camera and they needed to take proper steps and acquire permission. Turns out, that's exactly what happened, as Warren County had a pursuit that came into Edmonson County and Deputy Jordan Jones and Tango were utilized to try to find some subjects that fled on foot. Deputies Jones and Tango were both featured on last week's show and they want to feature our department this week." Doyle said the show is not the same as the popular long running "COPS," but one that takes a different approach. "The show is about transparency with law enforcement all across the country. It's not necessarily about fights, chases, and arrests. In fact, it's much more about how officers use discretion, how they serve and help the public, and how they cut people breaks when they're in the wrong place at the wrong time." Doyle said the production crew will be arriving early on Friday from New York to outfit their police cruisers with cameras and gear to prepare for the live taping that is scheduled for Friday night. "We're going to be conducting road safety checkpoints around the county and Live PD will be there," said the Sheriff. "We're proud of what we're doing in Edmonson County and we honored to be able to show the rest of the world." The show is set to air Friday, February 3, at 8pm central time. Doyle said he wanted to remind the public that the following are approved safety checkpoints in Edmonson County:
Darren Doyle, story Governor Matt Bevin has appointed Edmonson County Attorney J.B. Hines to serve as the next District Judge for the 38th District which is made of Butler, Edmonson, Hancock and Ohio counties. Attorney Hines was nominated at the end of 2016 along with attorneys Richard Joseph Deye of Morgantown and Tara Nicole Ward of Hartford by the Judicial Nominating Commission. “I am honored that Governor Bevin appointed me. I thank the citizens of Edmonson County for their support and making this possible," said Hines. "I am proud that my home and office will continue to be in Edmonson County, and that I will continue to serve our county. We have made great strides in the county attorney's office by reaching new, positive benchmarks. I will continue the hard work for our citizens, and work with our county government to make the transition.” The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for February 27, 2017, at 11 a.m. at the Edmonson County Courthouse. Chief Justice John D. Minton Jr. of the Supreme Court of Kentucky is scheduled to perform the swearing-in ceremony. Hines has run a private law practice since 2005, dealing with civil litigation, criminal law, domestic relations, wills and probate. He has also served as Edmonson County Attorney, where he implemented new programs to combat uninsured driving and dramatically improve child support collections. After earning a B.A. in Spanish and government and an MPA from Western Kentucky University, Hines graduated from the Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville. This appointment takes effect immediately, and Hines shall serve until the position is filled in accordance with the results of the November 2018 midterm election, pursuant to the provisions of Section 152 of the Kentucky Constitution. Edmonson County Judge Wil Cannon will now be responsible for appointing a new county attorney in the place of Hines' absence.
"I'm not going to wait very long to make the appointment," said Judge Cannon. "There are currently two different attorneys on the list of candidates and I've been in contact with each of them. I'll make a decision as soon as it's possible." Cannon said that just because a candidate might be an experienced attorney, it wouldn't necessarily be the best fit for the Edmonson County Attorney. "Being a county attorney is much more complicated than just prosecuting cases. There's a large array of responsibilities that fall outside of prosecution. We need someone with prior experience in that field." Cannon said that while appointing a new county attorney is very serious and could possibly be difficult, he wishes Hines well with his new role. "I'm really happy for him," he said. "We both began serving in our offices at the same time and we've grown together. I hate to see him leave as county attorney, but I don't fault him for moving on with this opportunity. There will be a transitional period for us as a county, but we'll make it through just fine." Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, January 24, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. Janice Rodgers, Theft of services. Pleaded guilty. Continue on 2/17/17 for sentencing. Damon Lee Constant, Speeding 1mph over limit. Failure to produce insurance card. Reckless driving. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 2/7/17. Dustin T. Gipson, No/expired registration plates. All other traffic offenses not listed. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 2/7/17. Zachary A. Kinser, Truancy--student 18 but not yet 21. Order of dismissal tendered and entered. District Court for January 31, 2017: Victor C. Neal, Violation of KY EPO/DVO. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 2/14/17. Shawna Lacole Hayes, Illegal possession of legend drug. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Possession of marijuana. Possess open alcohol beverage container in motor vehicle. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference for 3/14/17. Cody Vincent, Carrying a concealed deadly weapon. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 2/14/17. Ashlie Lindsey, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license. No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Pedro Sanchez, Jr., Violation of KY EPO/DVO. Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference on 2/14/17. |
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