Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, May 26, 2015. The Hon. Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Charlie Ray Hayes, Stalking-1st degree. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial hearing for 6/9/15.

Thomas Jason Stine, Convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Failure to produce insurance card. Failure to notify address change to dept. of transportation. Operating vehicle under influence of intoxicating beverage, 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty to all, pretrial hearing for 6/9/15.

Regina L Carroll, Failure to produce insurance card. No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

Brandi Nichole Bowlds, Theft by unlawful taking or by disposition shoplifting under $500. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

Christopher Frogge, Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. 

Joseph M Penn, Improper passing, paid. 

Silas Dakota Kinser, No/expired KY registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Amended to all other-failed to appear.

Spencer Vincent, No/expired KY registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Signed order to dismiss.

Tyler Johnson, No tail lamps, license to be in possession, improper equipment, inadequate silencer (muffler). Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

Johnathan Dakota Gertiser, One headlight. Proof shown, dismissed. Failure to wear seat belts. Fined $25 plus cost. Failure to wear seat belts, two counts. Dismissed. Total costs and fines, $168.

Dakota Pearson, Careless driving. Will participate in County Attorney traffic school. Failure to wear seat belt. Pleaded guilty, fined $25.

Dakota Pearson, Failure to notify address change to department of transportation. Proof shown, dismissed.

Pasquale Mario Tarantino, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500. Pleaded guilty, sentenced to 30 days in jail, probated for 2yrs. Ordered to pay restitution. Total costs, $184.

Paul Collins, Theft by unlawful taking or by disposition, all others under $500, criminal mischief-3rd degree, possession of burglary tools. Continued to another date.

Cory W Lindsey, Failure to wear seat belts, obstructed vision and/or windshield, license to be in possession, carrying a concealed deadly weapon, 1st degree possession of controlled substance/drug unspecified, 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty to all, pretrial hearing for 6/9/15.

Michael Anthony Vance, Wanton endangerment-2nd degree. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

Amanda Donanita Rosenberger, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition shoplifting under $500. Pleaded guilty, sentenced to 30 days in jail, probated for 2yrs on condition of no new charges involving theft. Ordered to stay out of Family Dollar. Total cost $184.

Michael Anthony Vance, Harassment-no physical contact. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

Bobby J Lindsey, Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Pleaded not guilty. No contact with victim, bail credit. 

Charles C Vibbert, Assault 2nd degree. Continued in two weeks.

Howard W Baird, Cultivation of marijuana, 5 or more plants, 1st offense. Trafficking in marijuana 8oz to less than 5lbs, 1st offense. Trafficking in controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense, drug unspecified. Pleaded not guilty to all. 

On Thursday, May 28, around 10:30pm,  police responded to a domestic disturbance call on Hannah Lane near the Edmonson County Fairgrounds. 

Police say that the suspect in question, Johnathan Minton, had already left the scene in a black Chevy Trailblazer, but within moments, the black Trailblazer, driven by Minton, approached the address again. Police say that when they tried to stop the vehicle, a short car chase began, but ended quickly as Minton stopped his vehicle and began to flee on foot. After police ordered him to stop several times, Minton was tased and apprehended. 

Johnathan Minton, 29, of Brownsville was then arrested and charged with: Fleeing and Evading-1st degree-Motor Vehicle, Fleeing and Evading-1st degree-on foot, Wanton Endagerment-1st degree-Police Officer - 2 counts, Assault-4th degree-Domestic Violence-Minor Injury, Aggravated DUI, Operating on suspended license, Careless Driving, Criminal Mischief-3rd degree, License to be in possession, Resisting Arrest, and Refusal of a chemical test.

"It's always bad when you deal with domestic violence, but when you mix drunk driving in with it, you have a recipe that ends with jail," said Deputy Jordan Jones.

"Domestic Violence is a horrible problem that we take very seriously," Sheriff Shane Doyle said. "Our office has no tolerance for it in any way. The suspect in this case would not follow orders to stop and was being aggressive towards police. Deputy Jones acted accordingly and we stand by his actions."

The investigation was led by Deputy Jordan Jones and assisted by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Brownsville Police, Dist 2 Constable, and the local probation office. 

Edmonson Voice Staff
story and photo

A better crowd was on hand for the quarterly meeting that new District 6 Magistrate Mark Woosley held Thursday.  Also attending was State Representative Michael Meredith, who gave the crowd an update to the new laws of interest from the last legislative session, and Sheriff Shane Doyle, who gave information on the latest criminal activity and arrests in the county.  

One of the group's biggest concerns centered around the current financial state of the county.  It was discussed that a tax increase may need to be looked at, or some of the services the county provides may be on the chopping block.  "We can't do without our sheriff, or ambulance service, and we don't want to lose our parks and rec," Woosley said. 

At a traffic stop on Tuesday, May 26, police arrested a convicted felon who allegedly was concealing a deadly weapon. Police say David James, 55 of Brownsville had the weapon hidden in his back pocket. 

Later that day, after receiving an anonymous drug complaint, police traveled to the home of David James and Deanna Miller to investigate. Police say Miller, 38, of Brownsville gave consent to search the property. 

During the search, police found a .380 handgun, a number of pills in an unmarked container, and two syringes, with one containing suspected meth.

Miller was arrested on scene for convicted felon in possession of a handgun, possession of a controlled substance, (1st degree meth), possession of a controlled substance, (3rd degree), prescription controlled substance not in original container, drug paraphernalia and endangering the welfare of a minor.

The Edmonson County Board of Education recently approved new voting districts.  This action is meant to comply with state election laws and realigns districts so that voter distribution is more even.  The new districts result from a joint planning effort between the Board and the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) and will help to ensure that voters are fairly represented in School Board elections.

The Edmonson County Fiscal Court revised Magistrate voting lines in 2014 and, as a result of population shifts occurring since the 2000 census, the Board determined that a need existed to modify its voting boundaries.  The Board’s desire was to create voting districts that closely resembled those of the Magistrates; however, this was difficult because only five School Board districts exist compared to six Magistrate districts.

The current realignment population consists of the following totals for each district:  District 1 (2,353); District 2 (2,405); District 3 (2,455); District 4 (2,538); District 5 (2,430).  This information has been provided to the Edmonson County Court Clerk’s Office and should provide ample time for voter notification prior to the next School Board Election in November 2016. 

Edmonson Voice Staff

The Rocky Hill Fire Department was packed to standing room-only Thursday night as District 3 Magistrate Clark Wood hosted a town hall meeting to discuss the future of the Rocky Hill Gas Plant. Representatives from two different companies competing to purchase the plant were in attendance to address the crowd, Jim Brown, the KY Field Operations Manager for Hellervik Oil Technologies, and Jeff Casey, Owner of Onyx Exploration and Clipper Energy Supply.

Mr. Brown was asked to speak to the crowd first, as it was Judge Executive Wil Cannon who asked him the first question regarding Hellervik's noise reduction plan. Brown discussed vibration isolators designed for equipment like that of the plant's that would reduce noise along with other measures, such as enclosing the plant's compressors, but said his company wouldn't pursue that until they know they're going to be the purchasers. 

The questions kept coming, and Mr. Brown kept doing his best to answer them, however, citizens weren't having any of it. "It's a loud whining noise," one man said. "The residue on our homes and cars is awful," said another. "It makes the damnedest racket you ever heard!" shouted another man. 

One couple spoke up and said that they had moved to the community a few years ago, but had they known about the noise and problems with the plant they would have never done so.

Local resident Sandra Beckner asked Brown if his company ran other plants that were in the middle of other communities. "No," he said. "Not in the middle of communities."

The floor was soon turned over to Mr. Jeff Casey, and no one rolled out a red carpet for him, either.  Casey said that his plan called for reducing noise and emissions and improving the way electricity is delivered to the plant. He said he also planned to reduce electricity consumption, which would also help reduce the noise. Mrs. Beckner said, "You can say whatever you want with a smile, but there's no guarantee you'll do what you'll say."

Casey said his company is no longer seeking industrial revenue bonds from the county, and that running the plant would not be profitable at first. One woman said, "Then there's something we're missing, because you wouldn't take such a risk." Casey said that when the price of gas increases, the plant would again become profitable. "Profitable for your company," the woman said. "Not us citizens."

Mrs. Yvonne Campbell then asked if it was too late for zoning in Edmonson County. One woman was heard saying "Did you see the Edmonson Voice Poll? 76% of the people want zoning!" Judge Cannon answered by saying he'd seen the poll, but there was currently no ordinances in place, but if people demanded zoning, he could see that it was placed on a fiscal court agenda, discussed, and possibly voted on, but in the future. "I'm not completely against some kind of zoning," he said. "I'm against sloppy ordinances. We have to research other counties with similar issues and make sure the language is clear and we have a way to enforce it, otherwise, we're wasting our time." 

One resident asked Mr. Casey, "If you lived here would you want this?" Casey replied by saying no, he'd probably be on the citizens' side. Another woman accused Casey of not answering anything for certain, but Casey said he really couldn't until his company can purchase the plant. "I think we have a lot to think about after this meeting," he said.

After the meeting adjourned, we asked Magistrate Clark Wood how he felt about the meeting. "Well, we all voiced our ill feelings," he said. "They answered a few questions, but some of them got side-stepped, I believe." He said the whole process has been frustrating to him and the entire district. "This thing was put in during the last administration before I came here (as magistrate). The plant was already under construction before I knew what it was, and that was 7 or 8 years ago." When asked about the possibility of zoning, Wood answered, "I wouldn't mind exploring zoning as far as certain types of businesses go."

Jeff Casey said he was surprised at the amount of opposition he saw at the meeting. "I think all this can be solved," he said. "We'll do our best to make it where it's not a nuisance to people. I don't like to be a nuisance." Casey said he understands why the community has concerns, and that he should know if his company will be the new owner of the plant by sometime next week. He also said that he'd have the plant operating in 4-6 months if he purchases it.

"The people that are trying to buy this gas plant are starting to realize what they're up against as far as the population in this area," said Judge Cannon. "They're starting to realize that it's not going to be an easy transaction and that the folks are even considering suing whoever buys it." When asked if it was frustrating for the county government to have virtually no control over the situation, he said. "Frustrating? It makes me sick, really. We're dealing with something that could be huge safety issues, long-term health issues, property values going down, a bed and breakfast that depends on peace and quiet. That's why we as county officials have to do everything we can to protect them, but we don't have a lot of tools in our bag."

Darren Doyle,
Edmonson Voice

Local police reported that a man was driven to the sheriff's office this morning, Wednesday, May 27, 2015 around 8:00 am with two gunshot wounds to the lower part of his chest. The sheriff's office reported that Garnett Richard Odell, 64, of Cave Hollow Bay told police that he'd gone out to his truck for cigarettes around 3:00 am, when an unknown assailant shot him twice and got away. Police said the man also told them that his sister found him around 7:30am to give him a ride to court. According to court records, Odell is on trial for five counts of 1st degree sexual abuse dating back to 2011.  Odell told police that his sister tried to call an ambulance, he refused, but allowed her to bring him to the sheriff's office.

Edmonson County EMS transported Odell to the Medical Center in Bowling Green and the trial had to be postponed. Sheriff Shane Doyle and Lieutenant Jeff Jewell then traveled to Odell's home to investigate. Upon arrival, Odell's son, who was at the residence, gave them consent to search the premises, as he told them he was not aware of a shooting. 

Police say there was blood throughout the home and after further investigation, they found blood in and around Odell's truck. Inside they found two .22 caliber bullets, one lodged in the roof of the truck, the other lodged into the driver's headrest.

Sheriff Doyle then interviewed Odell after it was determined with the help of Lt. Jewell, who is a certified bullet path re-constructionist, that it was virtually impossible for someone else to have shot Odell other than himself. 

During the interview, Sheriff Doyle said Odell told him the same story at first, but after further questioning, Odell admitted that he was the one who shot himself in a botched suicide attempt. 

Odell was treated and released for non-life threatening injuries. Police say both bullets entered Odell's chest just under the left side of the rib cage and exited out his back. 

Police say no new charges are being filed at this time, and Odell's sex abuse trial is obviously being rescheduled.

Darren Doyle,
Edmonson Voice

The Edmonson County real property tax roll will be opened for inspection from June 1st through June 15th, 2015. Under the supervision of the property valuation administrator or one of the deputies, any person may inspect the tax roll.

This is the January 1, 2015 assessment on which state, county, and school taxes for 2015 will be due about November 1, 2015.  

The tax roll is in the office of PVA in the Edmonson County courthouse and may be inspected between the hours of 7:30am to 4:30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, and from 8:00am to 12 noon on Thursday and Saturday. 

Any taxpayer desiring to appeal an assessment on real property made by the PVA must first request a conference with the PVA or a designated deputy. The conference may be held prior to or during the inspection period. 

Any taxpayer still aggrieved by an assessment on real property, after the conference with the PVA or designated deputy, may appeal to the county board of assessment appeals.

The taxpayer can appeal his assessment by filing in person or sending a letter or other written petition stating the reasons for appeal, identifying the property and stating the taxpayer's opinion of the fair cash value of the property.

The appeal must be filed with the county clerk's office no later than one work day following the conclusion of the inspection period. 

Any taxpayer failing to appeal to the county board of assessment appeals, or failing to appear before the board, either in person or by designated representative, will not be eligible to appeal directly to the Kentucky Board of Tax Appeals.

Appeals of personal property assessments shall not be made to the county board of assessment appeals. Personal property taxpayers shall be served notice under the provisions of KRS 132.450(4) and shall have the protest and appeal rights granted under the provisions of KRS 131.110.

The following steps should be taken when a taxpayer does not agree with the assessed value of personal property as determined by the office of PVA.

(1)   Property owner must list under protest (for certification) what he believes to be the fair cash value of his               property.
(2) Property owner must file a written protest directly with the Department of Revenue, Office of Property                 Valuation within 30 days from the date of the notice of assessment.
(3) This protest must be in accordance with KRS 131.110.
(4) The final decision of the Department of Revenue may be appealed to the Kentucky Board of Tax Appeals.

-Kyle M. White,
Property Valuation Administrator
Edmonson County

Fiscal Court was held today instead of the regular Monday due to the Memorial Day Holiday. The Rocky Hill Gas Plant continues to be a hot topic as several area residents were in attendance to voice more concerns. Judge Wil Cannon told the court that not only Hellervik and Onyx were looking at purchasing the plant, but now there was another company in play. He suggested that the court hold off on all research of bonding one company or another until the plant is purchased.  "There's no point in discussing this further until this plant sells," he said. "There could be many companies out there who could buy this plant. We need to wait until someone buys it, then we can proceed with possible bonding with the new owner." One resident who had attended the previous meeting said "We're not against somebody selling gas, we're against the noise that comes from (the gas plant)." 

Another resident, Jim Marshall, owner of Rocky Hill Bed and Breakfast asked Judge Cannon about the Onyx Corp., the company that last requested Industrial Revenue Bonds from the court. "Why are we even considering this company?" Cannon reminded Mr. Marshall that the county has no control of who buys the plant, and that at this point, the bonding issue was on hold until it sells. "If the new owner is community-minded and willing to work with the county and our residents, we'll proceed with looking into revenue bonds," he said. "If we don't feel they are, then we're not under any obligation to bond anyone." 

The court also heard from County Road Foreman Ray Page. He reported that his department was busy in various parts of the county, paving different roads, installing road tiles, and that the county mowing crew was busy maintaining right-of-ways. 

The court agreed to take no action with the former Webb-Co building, owned by Tim Vincent. Judge Cannon said that with a tight budget, the county could not afford the purchase of the building at this time.

Cannon updated the court on the Chalybeate Park boundary situation. He said that Pride Engineering in Glasgow had estimated the cost of a survey for the entire property would be around $1500. He also said that the landowner of the portion bordering one side of the park has agreed to pay half of what it would cost to survey that portion of the park. The court agreed to continue researching the matter.

Sheriff Doyle reported on the success of the recent "Click-It or Ticket" program. He said that traffic checkpoints have shown more people are wearing their seat belts since the program's start and that there have been 4 felony arrests made during these checks. He also discussed the recent large marijuana bust we reported earlier, made by his department along with Brownsville PD. He also said the sheriff's office has recently seized over $11,000 in cash from drug arrests. He said that if the department was still in the Drug Task Force, they'd have to forfeit the entire amount to the DTF. Being independent from it, he said, allows them to keep almost all of it for equipment and departmental needs. His office also has purchased three additional vehicles and the jailer's office purchased two from a police agency at a total price of $32k for all 5 vehicle. He said they are all fully equipped police cruisers and each have around 50-60K miles.

Judge Cannon said the county received $41,000 from the state's tobacco settlement program. The money must be allocated for road and/or bridge construction or maintenance. 

Cannon also discussed his plan for a new Veteran's Memorial courtyard outside of the courthouse. The county will be selling paver bricks that will be engraved with the purchaser's choice of name. For example, each brick would read something like "In Memory of Sgt. John Doe, WWII, Love the Doe Family"  Cannon said each paver would sell for $35, and the project would fund itself. He said he also the project will also allow a large stone or marble cross in the courtyard and a decorative street lamp nearby. 

County Clerk Kevin Alexander reported on the recent election and that Edmonson County had somewhere around a 15% voter turnout. He commended Sheriff Doyle on the help he was during the tallying process. He also said opening on Saturday has been a huge success and is continuing  to do well. 

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 9th.

Darren Doyle, 
story and photo

A horrific crash on 31W, just south of Park Mammoth Resort, claimed the life of Joe Cash, 54, of Smiths Grove around 6:30pm Saturday evening. Cash, who was on a 2000 model motorcycle, was struck head-on by a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis driven by Debra Thomason, 56, of Cave City.  

The initial investigation showed that the car appeared to be over the yellow line into the path of the motorcycle. Police reported that there were no skid marks, and due to the extensive damage to Thomason's car, it doesn't appear that the vehicle slowed down at all before impact. The circumstances of the accident are still under investigation, which is being led by Deputy Stoney Phillips.

Cash was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Coroner Daniel Ashley. Also assisting on scene were Edmonson County EMS, Deputies Ritter and Jones,  Deputies Jimmy and Amanda Coniglio, U.S. Park Rangers, and the Rocky Hill Fire Department.

Darren Doyle, 
Edmonson Voice

Officially, the first day of the 2015 summer is June 21st, (which is also Father's Day) but most everyone views Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial kickoff to the season. Whether its  spending time on the lake, firing up grills and smokers, spending time with friends and family, visiting a cemetery, or simply enjoying a day off from work, most everyone celebrates or observes Memorial Day in one form or another.

Unfortunately, most folks really don't know the true purpose for this holiday, although a large majority still hold high respect for it. You or someone in your family probably buy some sort of bouquet or flower arrangement to place on a grave of a lost loved one, and that's certainly a very respectful and honorable act, however, that wasn't the reason that Memorial Day was first observed.

Don't misunderstand me, in no way am I trying to discourage anyone from decorating a grave on Memorial Day, or any other day, because that's a beautiful thing... it's just important to know why we celebrate the occasion.

After the Civil War, "Decoration Day" was declared in 1868 for the purpose of decorating graves of soldiers who were killed in battle, which name was changed to "Memorial Day" in 1882. It wasn't observed as a federal holiday until 1967 with the original purpose still remaining the focus, which was to honor all men and women who died in battle while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

In the old days, as families traveled to cemeteries to decorate the graves of their fallen soldiers, they also brought picnic style foods and had "dinner on the ground" since most all families were assembled together in the same place. From there, folks started decorating the graves of all loved ones, ones who weren't veterans, and then others just had a meal, and then somewhere along the way, many forgot about all the above and observe the holiday for nothing more than cookouts and parties. 

If you see an American flag at half-staff today, (one on a flagpole, not a small one people hang from a porch) the United States Flag Code (written rules for displaying and caring for the flag) says that on Memorial Day, one should raise the flag to the top of the pole, lower it to half-staff where it should remain until noon, then return to full staff.

Below are photos from this morning's Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Community Center.

Is the holiday for visiting cemeteries, cookouts, lazy days, and friends and family? Sure it is, and we hope you enjoy your Memorial Day however you see fit, as there are certainly many ways to do so. But please take a moment to reflect on the fact that countless men and women fought and died to give you the right, and to protect that right to do so. Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

Darren Doyle
story and photos

It was an emotional afternoon on Saturday, May 23rd as the 2015 class of Edmonson County High School said their final goodbyes as students at the annual commencement ceremony. 117 students made up this year's class with many receiving scholarships and being recognized for outstanding achievements. 

Miss Regan Sailing was honored as valedictorian and received the Regents Scholarship from Western Kentucky University, as well as the Edmonson County Education Association Scholarship. She was an honor student, held a 4.0 or higher GPA and was also a Youth Leadership graduate.

Left: Valedictorian Regan Sailing addresses the class of 2015.

Stine was also charged with DUI, failure to produce insurance card and failure to notify change of address. The investigation was led by Deputy Jordan Jones and assisted by other members of the Sheriff's Office, Kentucky State Police, and Officer Josh Watt. 

"As I first said about the 'Click-It Or Ticket' Program, it's not about writing tickets," Sheriff Doyle said. "It's about saving lives. We're working hard to make our county a better, safer place for everyone. This program is simply another way that we and all local agencies continue to work together for the same cause."

Stine was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

One hundred and forty six students said goodbye to their middle school years on Friday, May 22, as the annual 8th Grade Graduation ceremony was held at ECHS. The gym was full of parents, grandparents, family, and friends as Principal Brandon Prunty addressed the crowd and distributed awards and diplomas at the gathering.

After Mr. Prunty welcomed everyone in attendance, the crowd was led by student Jack Burton in the Pledge of Allegiance. Madison Doyle then sang Carrie Underwood's popular hit, "Whenever You Remember." 

Logan Hagan was the proud recipient of "Student of the Year" honors, an award that not only recognizes academics, but attitude and overall work ethic as well. Eli Ruth was recognized for having perfect attendance not only this year, but all the way back to kindergarten. Student Council President Chanley Logsdon delivered the presidential address.

The votes are in and the winner is...well, we're not sure yet. In a horribly low voter turnout, (approximately 10%) the republican governor's results are still undetermined. After all precincts had reported, Matt Bevin (70,479) clutched an 83 vote lead over James Comer (70,396). Comer has requested a recanvass of the votes which is simply a mathematical check of the vote count from each precinct, and not an official recount. Should a recount be requested, the tally would start all over, with every single vote being counted again.  

Statewide for the democrats, Jack Conway (78.8%) easily won over Geoff Young (21.2%) In other statewide races:

Judge Executive Wil Cannon has officially signed the proclamation announcing "EMS Week" for Edmonson County. The signed document is a reminder to everyone how important that emergency workers are and to recognize the emergency medical services system consisting of emergency physicians, emergency nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, educators, administrators and other EMS personnel.

The Edmonson Voice proudly salutes our local EMS workers and thank all them for their service.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Edmonson Voice Staff
Sometimes people get what's known as a "gut feeling," and it's something that oft times can't be explained. Using their training, intuition, and relying heavily on an old fashioned "gut feeling," Local police were able to turn a friendly conversation into one of the largest marijuana busts that's been seen here in quite some time. 

On Monday, May 18th, Deputy Wally Ritter and Officer Garth Avery carried out what's known as a "knock and talk" at 521 Oak Hill Road after receiving a tip that there was possibly drug activity at the address. A "knock and talk" is simply where officers knock on someone's door and simply ask a few questions. If there seems to be anything suspicious, officers follow up accordingly, if there isn't, everyone has a nice day and life goes on. According to police, after a short conversation with the residents, something seemed off to the officers and probable cause for a search warrant was found.

Police then obtained a search warrant for the residence and all outbuildings on the property, and they soon discovered a massive amount of evidence.

Authorities then uncovered three separate marijuana growth stations with a total of 40 plants, most being over 6ft tall. Each station was in operation with no sunlight or rainfall with the buildings being completely blacked out and disguised as run-down storage sheds. The plants were grown strictly via grow lights, automatic water pumps, fans, electronic timers and exhaust fans vented through the roofs.  "This is one of, if not the most elaborate grows that we've ever seen," said Ritter, who played a big role in Monday night's operation.

Inside the house, police also found approximately one pound of marijuana bud being processed along with numerous bottles of schedule II and schedule IV narcotics, with ledgers maintaining a running pill count. $6,328.00 in cash was also seized.

Howard Baird, 54, of Brownsville, was charged with cultivating in marijuana - more than 5 plants/ 1st offense; trafficking in marijuana greater than 8oz, less than 5lbs/ 1st offense; and trafficking in controlled substance 1st degree/ 1st offense. All of these charges were firearm enhanced due to there being multiple firearms on scene.

"This whole case stemmed from a multi-agency cooperative effort," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "It proves that by working together, great things can be accomplished for our county." Doyle also commended local officers for their persistence on this case. "Because they used sound tactics, solid police work, and trusted their instincts, our kids are safer today than they were yesterday."

Along with Ritter and Avery, deputies Stoney Phillips, Jimmy and Amanda Coniglio, and Officer Jeff Jewell were on scene, along with Constable Tim Skees.

"Whenever we're getting drugs, guns, and the cash that funds them off the streets, it's always a good day on the job," said Officer Garth Avery.

"This is what happens when different agencies operate together with same agenda," said Ritter. "This will not be the last story like this."

There will be no school in session as the primary election for 2015 will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, May 19th. There has been much talk about the Republican Governor's race with three candidates in a very tight and negative race, featuring Louisville businessman Hal Heiner, businessman Mat Bevin, and current Ag Commissioner James Comer who recently visited here. Ryan Quarles, another recent EC visitor is seeking the Ag Commissioner's office against Richard Heath. 

The Democrat side features current Attorney General Jack Conway seeking the Governor position and former Congressional candidate Alison Lundergan Grimes who lost to Mitch McConnell, is running for re-election as Secretary of State. Please exercise your right to vote by letting your voice be heard.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Zebulon Bryce Higdon, One headlight, Speeding 15mph over limit, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs 1st offense, drug paraphernalia- buy/possess, trafficking in controlled substance 1st degree-1st offense-less than 10 d.u., drug unspecified schedule 1 and 2, 1st degree possession of controlled substance, drug unspecified, 1st offense, possession of marijuana, trafficking in marijuana, less than 80z., first offense. Pleaded not guilty to all, days for preliminary hearing waved, scheduled for 6/09/15.

Jennifer L Bryant, Speeding 26mph over limit, reckless driving (merge into count one). Will participate in County Attorney Traffic School.

Joshua M Blair, Following another vehicle too closely, careless driving (merge into count one). Will participate in County Attorney Traffic School.

Joshua M Blair, Enhancement possession of marijuana, enhancement drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Preliminary hearing for 5/26/15.

Brian M Miller, License to be in possession, proof shown, dismissed. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown, dismissed. 

Wallace D Roddy, Reckless driving, improper passing, driving too fast for traffic conditions, license plate not legible, failure to produce insurance card, no/expired KY registration receipt, obstructed vision and/or windshield, improper equipment. Failed to appear, $250 bench warrant issued.

Lorenzo Harris, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license. Defer for 1 year, pay costs. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown.

Jeffery Metcalfe, Improper passing, No/expired registration plates, License to be in possession. Proof shown, all dismissed.

Wendy L Browning, Failure to produce insurance card, (merge into count 4) No/expired KY registration receipt, Pleaded guilty, fined $100, No/expired registration plates, pleaded guilty, fined $100, (all fines concurrent) Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Pleaded guilty, fined $500, $450 of which probated for 2 years on no new charges. Total costs and fines after probating, $193.

Andrea Eastman, No tail lamps, proof shown, dismissed. One headlight, proof shown, dismissed. Failure to produce insurance card, pleaded guilty, fined $100. Total costs and fines $243.

Shannon P Murphy, failure to produce insurance card, no/expired registration plates, no/expired Ky registration receipt. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation. Failed to appear, $250 bench warrant issued. 

Danny McGrew, Operating on suspended/revoked operator's license. Pleaded guilty. Fined $100 plus 30 days in jail. 30 days probated for 2 years if no new charges. Total fines and costs $243.

Jeremy Wilson, Speeding 15mph over limit, failure to produce insurance card. Order to be tendered.

Philip J Pitts, Non-resident hunting/trapping without license/permit. Failed to appear, $500 bench warrant issued. 

Pasquale Mario Tarantino, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500. Continued in two weeks.

Phillip Dewayne Hayes, Alcohol intoxication in a public place, 1st and 2nd. Pleaded guilty. Total fines and costs, $209.

Tyson T Helton, Non-resident hunting/trapping without license/permit. Illegal take/pursue deer/wild turkey.
Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference for 6/9/15.

There will be no court on Tuesday, May 19th, 2015 for election day.

Police say they found three shirts from the store inside the purse with no proof of purchase. Both women accused the other of concealing the stolen shirts, so they were both arrested and charged with theft by unlawful taking under $500. 

Sheriff Shane Doyle was assisted by Deputy Scott Skaggs at the scene. Both women were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Darren Doyle
Edmonson Voice

Lindsey was arrested for 1st degree Poss. of controlled substance, drug unspecified, (firearm enhanced) and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. He was also charged with other traffic violations. He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Edmonson Voice Staff

Doyle was assisted on scene by Deputy Jordan Jones.  Also on scene was the Edmonson County EMS, and director of pupil transportation Lanny Deweese.

Edmonson Voice Staff
photos courtesy of ECSO

Sheriff Shane Doyle gave the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office activity report for the month of April at the May 11th Fiscal Court meeting. He also noted that his department has begun seasonal lake patrol and that Deputy Stoney Phillips has now completed special interrogation training. He also said the the recent ECHS Prom was a success and that no injuries or criminal activity was reported during the event.

He also reported the following: 

You can visit the Sheriff's Department Facebook Page by CLICKING HERE.

There were several more items on this week's fiscal court agenda in addition to the Rocky Hill Gas Plant discussion that we reported earlier. County Road Foreman Ray Page told the court he had hired three new employees, J.D. Pierce, Brandon Hack, and Steve Sturgeon for the upcoming summer season. 

The court also heard from Little League Program Director Greg Hudson. Hudson reported that the season was going well and make up games from rain outs were being worked into the schedule. He also said that the concession stand was thriving. All proceeds from concessions now go back into Parks and Rec, not a third party as has been in the past. 

The court received a request to remove Sally Sanders Rd (Dickey's Mill Rd area) from the county road system. One individual owned all the property on both sides of the road and citizens from the area agreed with the request. The court approved the request.

The court also discussed the boundaries of Chalybeate Sports Complex Park, which has two baseball fields, a playground, horseshoe pits, basketball and tennis courts, walking trails, a disc golf course, and two parking lots. Apparently the survey of the property was never recorded with the clerk's office and a private landowner that joins the park was in the process of having his property logged. Both the landowner and the county wanted to be sure the correct boundaries were in order so the court agreed to contact a professional surveyor to look into the matter.

Judge Cannon also read an update on Green River Lock No. 6. Nothing has changed since the last report. As it currently stands, the locks will remain in place.

Cannon also noted that the court was going to have to either come up with ways to generate more revenue or find cuts in the budget. He said the county had been relying heavily on savings in order to stay within the budget, something he said could not sustain itself at the current rate. With the county's current bills, the budget for the next year must find either $100K in cuts or increase in revenue. Cannon said it wasn't a pleasant topic to bring up but had to be addressed.

The court also heard reports from Sheriff Shane Doyle, Jailer Hank Vincent, and County Clerk Kevin Alexander. We'll have the sheriff's report in a separate article. Jailer Vincent said the new home incarceration program was working well for the county. Non-violent offenders were paying up front for the service, staying out of jail, and continuing to be able to work. The county was seeing a small amount of revenue instead of the cost of keeping someone in jail.

Clerk Alexander reported that his first Saturday of business was a huge success and plans on continuing to make improvements within his office. He said they have received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback on the Saturday opening.

The next meeting was originally scheduled for Monday, May 25th, but has been moved back to Tuesday, May 26th at 9am due to the Memorial Day Holiday.  

Edmonson Voice Staff