“The ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign means zero tolerance for drunk driving—no excuses.”

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:​
Over the 4th of July and the coming weeks, Mammoth Cave’s law enforcement rangers will be out in full force cracking down on drunk drivers. Expect to see law enforcement rangers at sobriety checkpoints throughout the summer along the Mammoth Cave Parkway, Green River Ferry Road, Brownsville Road, and on roving traffic patrols.   

“The consequences of drunk driving are serious,” added Chief Peppers. “Not only could you put your life and the lives of others at risk, but a DUI arrest means a loss of freedom and money, including going to jail, losing your license, and paying steep financial expenses. A DUI arrest in Mammoth Cave National Park is a federal offense, punishable by up to six months imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine.”
 
​Chief Peppers also requests that if you suspect a driver to be operating their vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in the park, please contact Mammoth Cave rangers at 270-597-2729.

Moriah Peterson, story and photo:
U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie (R) held a public visit at the Edmonson County Public Library Friday morning June 29, 2018 to discuss current topics from the federal to local level.

Topics covered included Social Security, Medicare, DACA, Net Neutrality, and the Prosper Act. Veterans Affairs, veteran suicide and the legalization of marijuana were also discussed. Guthrie stated “I’m not for legalizing recreational use of marijuana, it needs to be studied more before legalizing.” In regards to veteran healthcare Guthrie mentioned that any veteran whose health plan hasn’t been working for them needs to inform him.

On a local level, Houchin Ferry and Mammoth Cave National Park where also among topics discussed. Congressman Guthrie stated that he is for the development of a National Park class hotel or lodge being built in this area. He believes it will greatly increase tourism to the Mammoth Cave area. He has invited United States Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke to visit the area and they are setting up a date at this time.

At the end of the meeting Guthrie thanked all that attend. “This was great experience, good questions were asked and when we visit, I want make sure to address local issues."

Moriah Peterson, story and photos:
There was a great turnout Thursday evening June 28, 2018 at the public library for the meeting hosted by the National Park Service to discuss a range of options for the Houchin Ferry site.

According to documents distributed by the park, the ferry will not be restored, a bridge will not be built, and there will not be a boat ramp. During the meeting, concepts were displayed around the room for viewing and for questions.

In the documents, the NPS explained reasons for dismissing the three most popular suggestions from locals:

•  "Boat Ramp – After the removal of Lock and Dam No. 5 the river elevation is estimated to drop another 3 to 5 feet. The former ferry ramps that were used for launching boats into the Green River will then be approximately 11 or more feet above the river with a riverbank slope from 35 to 40 percent on the south side and 16 to 48 percent on the north side from where the ramp ends down to the river. Ideally, the range for a ramp where a boat is launched from a trailer is 12 to 15 percent. This requires removal of the existing ramps and construction of new, longer ramps at a lower elevation to accommodate the grade change from the new river elevation. The construction of a new boat ramp at either site would have an unacceptable impacts to natural and cultural resources and would compromise the functionally of each site. For these reasons, a boat ramp is not feasible for this site. It will be recommended that visitors utilize nearby boat launches, particularly the new Lock 6 Site. The NPS will have boat access to the river for emergency situations, and at such times the park boat will be lowered into the river using a boat railing system and a winch. 
• Vehicular Ferry – For similar reasons as the boat ramp, the slope needed to construct a ramp to the water’s edge for a vehicle to access a ferry would have an unacceptable impacts to natural and cultural resources and would compromise the functionally of each site. Park users are able to drive around the west side of the park in about the same time as it would take to use the prior ferry.

• Vehicular Bridge – Several times since the 1980s, the park has evaluated the feasibility of a vehicular bridge at both Houchin Ferry and at Green River Ferry. The idea was most recently rejected during a planning process that concluded in 2013. Such a bridge is not feasible because of the significant cost and because of unacceptable resource impacts." 

​Concept A is an “existing conditions” concept. This concept is used as a way to evaluate the effects of concepts B, C, and D. It can also help determine why NPS, along with the public may believe changes need to be made. This concept would involve continued use of the south side of the river; the north side would only have the existing vehicular turn-around space. River access would remain unchanged and the overnight and day use facilities would be maintained in their current configurations.

Concept B is designed to balance day and overnight use. Concept B’s south side would include twenty-two parking spaces, six campsites, two accessible spaces, six trailer spaces, more picnic shelters in addition to what is there currently, an emergency boat launch, a canoe/kayak launch, and a trail to an overlook. The south side would have a turnaround for vehicles, a trail leading to an overlook with picnic tables, and no improvements to the existing ramp. 

​Concept C is designed to maximize the overnight use of the site. It is documented that concept C will include eighteen parking spaces and one accessible space. Camping will consist of thirteen campsites and six trailer spaces. This concept will also include a trail to pedestrian bridge, canoe/kayak launch, emergency boat launch, and a medium sized picnic shelter. The south side will have a turnaround and parking for vehicles and trailers, a trail leading to pedestrian bridge and picnic tables. There will also be a kayak/canoe launch and three campsites with a porta john. 

​Concept D is planned to maximize day use and would convert all existing campsites into picnic areas and there will be additional small/medium sized shelters. Parking spaces would be increased to thirty-two with two accessible spaces. Six trailer spaces, a trail to an overlook, an emergency boat ramp and a canoe/kayak launch are also part of concept D. The south side will have a vehicle turnaround and parking, a canoe/ kayak launch, along with a trail leading to an overlook with picnic tables and porta john. 

Mark Kinzer, the project manager, was able to give insight for the Houchin Ferry Timeline. He said in six to eight weeks after public feedback is received, a second document will be released.   Fifteen to twenty-- after its release another meeting will be held for more public feedback.  Once comments are collected, a decision from the Regional Director of the Southeastern National Park Service will be made and then the funding process will begin. Mr. Kinzer is part of the regional office in Atlanta but is in Kentucky for planning.

​Mammoth Cave Superintendent Barclay C. Trimble stated “This is the kickoff stage, we are looking to receive feedback from the community to see what the public wants. Houchin Ferry is a gem in the park, we want to give it the TLC it needs and address the current deficiencies there due to the lowering river levels. We are thrilled to see such a great turnout here tonight.”

Edmonson District Court was held Tuesday June 19, 2018. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty Presiding.

Brandon Chester Gipson, No/expired Kentucky registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 7/3/18.

William Dal Wilson, Criminal littering. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference- 60 days.

Floyd E. Lindsey, Sexual abuse- 3rd degree. Dismissed.

James Wells, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Pretrial diversion, 30 days.

Shaun Besau, Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. No/expired registration plates. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Display/possession of cancelled/fictitious operators.  Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 7/10/18.

John Robert Meredith, Trafficking in controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense- methamphetamine. Trafficking in controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense-drug unspecified. Failure to/or improper signal. Traffic in marijuana, less than 8oz- 1st offense. Possession of controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense- methamphetamine. 1st degree possession of CS/drug unspecified, 1st offense. Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/26/18

​Judy Smith Payne, Theft by deception-includes cold checks, under $500. Pleaded guilty. Probated for two years.
 

Edmonson District Court was held Tuesday June 19, 2018. The Honorable Judge Joseph B. Hines Presiding.

Deanna M Miller, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Possession of marijuana. Failure to/or improper signal. No/expired registration plates. Guilty. Total costs and fines $458.00

Christopher Logan Phelps, Speeding 23 mph over limit. Will attend traffic school. 

Jerri Haley Beckham, Speeding 17 mph over limit. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/ security 1st. Failed to appear.

Jeffery A. Laws, Operating motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, 1st offense. Theft of motor vehicle registration plate/renewal decal. Possess open alcohol beverage container in a motor vehicle. Possession of Marijuana. No/expired registration receipt. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/ security 1st. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 7/10/18.

Nicholas Scott Carroll, Possession of marijuana. Guilty. Ten days in jail, probated for two years on condition of not being charged with same or similar offense.

Bobby Lee Brooks, Driving DUI suspended license, 1st offense, aggravator. No rear view mirror. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 7/10/18.

Rebecca G Bostic, Possession of controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense- methamphetamine. Resisting arrest. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing 7/10/18.

Andrew Williams, Possession of controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense- methamphetamine. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing 7/10/18.

Brian K. Carroll, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty. Preliminary hearing 7/10/18

Brandy Nichole Kinser-Napper, Possession of controlled substance, 2nd degree-codeine. Possession of controlled substance, 2nd degree-drug unspecified. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess.  Posession of marijuana. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 7/10/18.

Paul S. Harder, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, 1st offense. Obstructed vision and/or windshield. Resisting arrest. Assault 3rd degree-police/probation officer. Pleaded not guilty.

Charles M. Pendleton, Harassment-no physical contact. Criminal mischief- 3rd degree.  Pretrial conference 7/10/18.

Daniel Thomas Darst, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, 1st offense. Pretrial conference 8/14/18.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Bowling Green man is facing multiple felony charges after a bag he allegedly left behind at a local store led police to his arrest.

According to Brownsville Police, they received a call that a clerk at the Minit Mart in Brownsville had discovered a bag left by a customer on Tuesday, around 3:45pm. The caller said the bag was discovered after the customer left and store personnel opened the bag in an attempt to find identification from the owner.

Police said the caller found illegal drugs instead and local authorities began a search of the area using the man's description and video footage from the store.

Police said they, along with Sheriff's deputies, began asking local residents about the man in question and someone led them to the Green River Apartments. Police said they knocked on the first door at which they arrived where the resident allowed them to enter. They said they found the suspect inside the apartment who was identified as Kristopher York, (37) of Bowling Green, who already had an outstanding warrant for drug related charges in Warren County, according to police.

Police said inside the bag was 18 grams of methamphetamine, 3 ounces of marijuana, 21 pills of three different narcotic types that were not in their original containers, along with various drug paraphernalia, cash, and two large knives.

York was arrested and charged with:

• Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, second or more offense, (meth)
• Trafficking in marijuana, second of more offense
• Carrying concealed weapon by felony offender
• Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess
• Trafficking in controlled substance, third degree, second or more offense, drug unspecified

​York was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Assisting the Brownsville Police was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Darren Doyle, story:
A high speed pursuit that began in Glasgow has ended in Brownsville after the driver drove into the Green River in an attempt to flee from law enforcement.

According to Brownsville Police, local law enforcement were notified that a high speed chase was headed into Edmonson County around 7pm on Monday, June 25, 2018, after a traffic stop went haywire in Glasgow when Glasgow Police attempted to make a traffic stop on a Pontiac Grand Prix, driven by Joshua Soukup, (38), of Louisville.

Police said that during the attempted stop, Soukup attempted to run over a Glasgow officer and fled the scene. Brownsville Police joined the pursuit as the vehicle entered the city limits where speeds were in excess of 90 MPH through town and onto Washington Street. The pursuit continued up the tiny side street under the bridge past the entrance to the city park where the car drove straight off the boat ramp into the river. 

Police said the driver immediately exited the vehicle and swam across the river to the other side in an attempt to get away. One passenger, Dana Geer, (50), of Louisville, exited the vehicle and was taken into custody. Officers crossed the river and traveled down Lock Road where they soon picked up the driver and took him into custody. Police said as the car sunk below the water, another passenger surfaced out of the vehicle. Amanda Minyard, (26), of Louisville, made it out of the car, gasping for air. She was then taken into custody. 

Police said that one of the passengers said the driver purposely drove the car into the water in an attempt to flee. The driver was said to have three outstanding warrants. Police said they also found what appeared to be meth in the vehicle or possibly cocaine; however they could not confirm the actual substance at the time of this article.

​The driver and passengers are facing multiple felonies from this incident from Glasgow Police, Barren County Sheriff's Office, and Brownsville Police, including several wanton endangerment charges, as well as fleeing and evading and drug trafficking and possession charges. 

After being transported to T.J. Sampson Hospital for evaluation, all three will be lodged in the Barren County Detention Center, according to police.

"It's a miracle that no one was injured in this incident," said BPD Officer Dustin Harvey. "Driving into the river and escaping injury is one thing, but we had several residents, including children out in the area at the same time."

Multiple agencies responded during the incident, including Glasgow Police, Barren County Sheriff's Office, Brownsville Police, KSP, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, National Park Service, Dist. 2 and Dist. 5 Constables, Edmonson EMS, and multiple first responders from various local fire departments.

Officer Harvey said cooperation from multiple agencies was a key factor in the arrests.

"We're very grateful for the excellent working relationship we have with not only our local agencies, but our surrounding counties and cities," he said. "We appreciate the cooperation from Glasgow as well as the others."

The investigation is still ongoing and more charges are pending.

Moriah Peterson, story:
Fiscal court was held on Monday June 25, 2018 in the upstairs courtroom of the courthouse.

​County Road Foreman Ray Page reported that tile work is still being done. Road crews have finished in district 6 and have begun work in district 4. County mowers finished the south side of the county on June 2nd and began working on the north side on June 14th. 

Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that Devin Lindsey was sworn in as a special deputy on Wednesday, June 13th. He also reported that Josh Watt was presented the Carnegie Medal on Friday evening June 22nd. Sheriff Doyle also said he is picking up a new deputy vehicle in Lexington today.   

County Attorney Greg Vincent gave an update on the lawsuit between the County and Fortress Group, dba Park Mammoth. When Fiscal Court voted on pursuing the lawsuit, it was reported that the Fortress Group was two months behind on current taxes in addition to back taxes, but it was discovered that the previous treasurer did in fact, cash a check but didn’t disclose that information, making Fortress Group one month behind instead. It was reported that the Fortress Group has paid March, April, May payments, and June’s is due at the end of the month. Vincent also stated that the Fortress Group asked Judge Coleman to dismiss the case but that requested won’t be granted without consent from Fiscal Court. Edmonson County Fiscal Court is seeking more than $80,000 in back taxes in the suit.

The Committee Report included the upcoming meeting at the Edmonson County Public Library at 6pm on Thursday night June 28th to discuss the future plans of Houchin Ferry with Mammoth Cave Park officials.

A+ Family Healthcare will offer CDL physicals at $95.00 each and if employees choose to go elsewhere Fiscal Court will reimburse up to $95.00 in costs.

Two costly bids for building a new fire department in Lincoln were rejected at fiscal court today. The first bid was for $780,000 from Sunbelt Construction and the second was a $733,531 bid from C&C Contracting. Fiscal Court approved Lincoln applying for a grant that would increase the building budget to 500,000 not including the $100,000 that the Lincoln Department will pay.  

The purchase of a 2005 Chevy truck for the Parks & Rec department was also approved. The cost of the truck is $3500.

It was reported that Parks & Rec landline telephones have been disconnected and that phone calls now go directly to John Kiernan’s personal cell phone. It was approved that upon proof of bill submission and an invoice, Kiernan will be paid $50 a month towards his phone bill. Disconnecting the park phone has saved $130.00 each month.

In regards to the acknowledgement of Scott Waste Services, LLC annual rate increase, it was agreed that the Judge’s office would make phone calls to other counties to compare the cost of the trash pickup. Before the  next contract renews, it was suggested that CPI costs be investigated further.

Judge Cannon also announced that U.S Congressman Brett Guthrie will be at the public library on Friday morning June 29th from 9-10 am.

The next fiscal court is scheduled for Monday, July 9, 2018 at 6pm. This is one of the two annual night meetings.

Moriah Peterson, story and photos:
 On Friday night June 22, 2018 probation and parole officer Josh Watt received the prestigious Carnegie Medal, an award that has only been received just over 10,000 times since 1904.

This medal was created to recognize outstanding acts of selfless heroism,  and consists of a lengthy selection progress. The commission members search out heroes throughout Canada and the United States and they require extremely specific information and an investigation before picking awardees.

​Josh Watt, a local parole and probation officer, was picked on March 28, 2018 to be awarded for his heroism at the scene of a horrific crash that took place on June 26, 2017. During the ceremony, Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that Officer Watt is credited for saving the life of James Allman and his 17 year old passenger, Alyssa L. Gore who were trapped upside down in a burning truck. Officer Watt cut the seat belt of Miss Gore, removing her from the burning truck and was able also pull Mr. Allman out of the truck and put out the fire on his clothes.

Sheriff Doyle spoke about Officer Watt receiving the prestigious national award. "We always hate when tragedy strikes in our community. Sometimes it takes a tragedy to show us the best humanity has to offer, and in my opinion, Josh Watt perfectly embodies the best. He's selfless in every way, and I'm proud to call him a friend."

Police Chief Jeff Jewell was also present at the ceremony stating “there is no doubt that Josh was the right man in the right place.” Chief Jewell thanked Josh on the behalf of the Brownsville Police Department and the Brownsville Fire Department for his quick actions. 

Upon receiving the medal, Josh thanked all who came, which included his wife, daughter, parents, in-laws and grandparents. He stated “This is a huge honor for me.”

​At the end of the invitation-only ceremony, Samantha Catt, sister of James Allman, gave an update on James saying that he is still in recovery but has improved drastically since the accident. She also expressed her family’s thankfulness to Josh.

"From the bottom of our hearts, we want to say 'thank you' and because of your actions, James and Alyssa are with us today.”
​

Darren Doyle, story:
A Wingfield man has been charged with a series of gruesome crimes that include various rape, assault, and kidnapping charges involving a teen, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Law enforcement officers received a call on Sunday, May 27th from a panic alarm coming from a Wingfield residence. As officers were en route to the address, they received an additional call from a woman who reported that she and her two children, a young female teen and a 4 year-old boy, had been held against their will by the woman's boyfriend. She also reported that she was the same individual who activated the panic alarm at her residence. The Sheriff's Office said that the woman and her children escaped from the home after the boyfriend fled. They were picked up by a passing motorist who assisted them in calling law enforcement. 

According to the Sheriff, one deputy stayed with the victims and called for medical help while other officers arrived at the residence.

According to officials, the woman, whose name was not released, said her boyfriend, Billy G. Key (34) of Wingfield, restrained her teen daughter and abused her. She said Key left the home to pick up the woman from work, but when they returned home, the man then restrained the woman along with the teen and fled, where he reportedly told them he was going to commit suicide.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash in front of the Edmonson County Water District on KY HWY 259 around 4pm today.

According to the Brownsville Police, a 1998 black Dodge Ram pickup, driven by Linda Higgs (55) of Brownsville, was heading south. Witness reports and evidence on scene indicated that the truck traveled into the northbound lane for reasons not immediately known, according to police. There were also two passengers in the truck; Brandy Watt (31) and a 5-year old juvenile. 

Police said the truck collided with a northbound 2011 Kia Soul, driven by Haley York, (19) of Sweeden. Also in the vehicle was David Wilson (33), as well as a 5-year old and a 1-year old, according to police. 

All seven that were involved in the accident were transported to the Medical Center in Bowling Green. Police said the juveniles were wearing seat belts and properly restrained. All others were reportedly wearing seat belts, according to police. Officials had no update as to the extent of the injuries. 

Brownsville Police Officer Dustin Harvey said that the accident is still under investigation. Also responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Brownsville Fire Department, Edmonson EMS and the District 2 Constable.

*update 6/23/18, 5:26pm: an earlier version of this article said that police reported everyone was wearing seat belts except Mrs. Higgs. That has been corrected thanks to information sent to us on behalf of Mrs. Higgs that indicated she was also, in fact, wearing her seat belt. 

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brownsville man is facing several felony drug charges after a traffic stop on Sunday evening. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, a deputy noticed that a pickup truck failed to use a turn signal as it pulled onto N. Main St from York St. The deputy said the truck quickly pulled into Mis Amigos parking lot, where the driver got out and appeared to go through items in the truck as law enforcement made contact with him in a traffic stop.

The Sheriff's Office said that that a deputy asked the driver of the vehicle, John R. Meredith, (46) of Brownsville, to leave the items alone and speak with the officer. Officials said Meredith had been named in several other recent interviews in multiple drug complaints. According to the Sheriff's Office, Meredith consented to a search of the vehicle.

Officers found a backpack containing a jar of marijuana and hydrocodone pills in bottles that were not prescription containers. A further search of the area resulted in the discovery of a black box underneath the truck that contained suspected meth, more pills, and items of drug paraphernalia. 

Meredith was arrested and charged with:

• Trafficking controlled substance-first degree-first offense (meth) (Class C Felony)
• Trafficking controlled substance-first degree-first offense (drug unspecified) (Class C Felony)
• Trafficking marijuana-first offense
• Possession of controlled substance-first degree-first offense (meth) (Class D Felony)
• Possession of controlled substance-first degree-first offense (drug unspecified) (Class D Felony)
• Possession of marijuana
• Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess
• Failure to or improper signal

He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.  Assisting the Sheriff's Office was the Brownsville Police.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Middle School Academic Team has just been named 2018 National Champions after final scoring has been completed for the tournament system.

According to Head Coach Greg Grey, the championship is similar to a college football bowl system with different criteria. The stats and performances from each of the four regional champions are then compared in order to name the final national winner.

ECMS defeated Paideia Middle School from the Atlanta area in the New Orleans championship game on Sunday, May 27, 2018. It was their 8th win in a row during the tournament and they finished as the only team in the New Orleans competition undefeated. It's also important to note that the Wildcats were able to defeat high profile, private schools in the tournament. Many were stunned by the performance of the Edmonson County, which of course is in a rural, public school system.

Chip Beall, the director of National Academic Championship, informed Mr. Grey this morning that they had officially been named Junior National Academic Champions. According to Mr. Beall, EC edged out Johnson County Middle School (KY) for the National Championship. Johnson County won the Orlando division of the tournament with a perfect 8-0. Edmonson County averaged 414 points per game, while Johnson County averaged 393 points per game.

Based on the rules of tournament, the selection committee has named Edmonson County Middle School as national champions.

​Coach Grey reflected on this year's team and discussed how the entire season has been a very long term investment.

"We started practicing in August of 2017 for this tournament and we wound up playing in May and still weren't named national champions until June of this year, so that speaks of just the time investment for just one year," he said.

“Even though Jonas Miller and Brody Johnson led the team in scoring and the tournament staff named Jonas New Orleans MVP, I want to stress that every point by every player really mattered,” he added. "It was truly a team effort. Probably without some points scored at particular times from Taylor Dooley and Meredith Hennion when they did, we probably wouldn't be number one right now, we'd be number two."

Grey said the major difference maker for this team is that they were consistent all year long.

"They never gave up and no matter what the situation has been, they never seem disturbed or shook up. They've just always been able to keep their calm."

Principal Brandon Prunty said the National Championship is a very fitting ending to the already successful season the team has enjoyed.

"Mr. Grey and his coaching staff work tirelessly to prepare these students for the various competitions in which they participate during the year," he said. "To see the entire group rewarded for their hard work is wonderful."

He also added that being able to accomplish such a feat as a small public school in a rural area makes the news much sweeter.

"They outperformed many, many private schools who have virtually unlimited resources. It's all a true testament to how special this group is, including Mr. Grey. I'm definitely a proud principal."

Johnson County, in Paintsville, was named runner-up. It's also a small, rural public Kentucky school.

Now that this season has concluded, the bar has been set at the highest rung. We asked Mr. Grey where the team is going from here:

"Tomorrow I'm taking three middle schoolers to academic camp and we start getting ready for next season," he said.

He has his sights set on winning the state recall tournament, a competition in which they've come up just short, and of course, defending their national title.

"I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of this team. I probably spend more time with them than any of their family members, other than their parents. We practice, go to tournaments on weekends, do things together, and this year has been special. It's really pretty amazing."

Grey said the team plans to construct a parade float for the September Lions Club Fair parade and a new national championship banner is likely coming soon. He also said stay on the lookout for championship t-shirts and merchandise that will hopefully be available soon.

Moriah Peterson, story and photos:
A ceremony to honor Noah Bledsoe Rd. to fallen soldier U.S. Army Specialist Elzie Sanders, Jr., who was killed in action on November 12, 1967 in the Vietnam War, was opened with prayer on Saturday morning at Otter Gap Church.

Longtime friend Raymond Durbin spoke first about Elzie Sanders stating “He is still my counselor, my go-to guy and the keeper of my secrets.” After Durbin’s tribute, Sheriff Shane Doyle sang "God Bless America."

Linda Hodges, sister of Elzie, addressed the crowd “Thank you all for giving up your busy day, I know Saturdays are busy, to help honor my brother. This is a great day, a blessing. Since my mom and dad passed, and when I’m gone, I was afraid he would be forgotten.”

During the ceremony VFW Commander Floyd Houston read remarks from Ronald Detmer, a fellow service member who was in Vietnam with Elzie Sanders Jr. :

“I would tell so many stories about Junior in the 7 months we were together in Vietnam, concluding with the day he was killed in action. During a firefight, he radioed back from their corner position that two were wounded and they were taking sniper fire from behind the lines. As the B Company senior medic, I moved up to their position and began to treat the man most seriously wounded, Carl Davis. Almost immediately, a bullet went through my left hand and split my right forearm and wrist wide open. Junior came to my side and stopped my arterial bleeding and bandaged me up, saving my life. Junior then took my med kit over to the wounded man, Carl. He was exposed to more gunfire and was fatally wounded. He was absolutely one of the bravest men I ever knew.”

Before revealing the road sign, Mrs. Hodges continued. “My brother probably walked more miles on this road than anybody did. When he got a bicycle, he rode many miles helping farmers that lived on this road, and when we got his car he burnt the tires off that car on Noah Bledsoe Rd. I hope this dedication is the first of many in the county. I know there are many heroes in our county that died in action.”

The sign on Noah Bledsoe Rd features all the medals Elzie Sanders Jr. received, which include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Purple Heart for being wounded in combat, Bronze Medal for heroism and valor, and the Silver Star Medal, which is the 3rd highest medal for valor in our nation, along with his unit patch.

The dedication sign is located on Noah Bledsoe Rd right outside of the Otter Gap Church. Linda Hodges closed the ceromony stating “I hope in 100 years when people turn on Noah Bledsoe Rd they will see Elzie’s medals on his sign and know that he did something great.” ​

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office swore in a new special deputy on Wednesday, June 13th. Devin Lindsey, a graduate of ECHS and a longtime Edmonson County resident was sworn in yesterday by Sheriff Shane Doyle.

Lindsey has volunteered in several capacities for the county, which include the Judge Executive's Office and as a Deputy Jailer. He is filling a vacant special deputy's position with the Sheriff's Office.

Special deputies are volunteer positions and are appointed by the Sheriff. Effective July 1, 2018, Edmonson County will have a bit more freedom with special deputies thanks to House Bill 275, sponsored by State Representative Michael Lee Meredith. Sheriff Shane Doyle worked with Rep. Meredith on the bill, which will increase the amount of special deputies allowed by a Kentucky Sheriff's Office.

The current law allows the sheriff of a Kentucky county with a population of 10,000 or more to appoint only one special deputy for each 2,500 residents. Edmonson County has a population of just over 12,000. HB 275, which was signed by Governor Matt Bevin on April 2, 2018, will allow a county with a population over 10K to have up to ten special deputies if needed.

"Special deputies are very important to a county the size of ours," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "While our office has more certified deputies than ever, there are also other needs in our county. Special deputies can assist in so many ways and I'm happy to have the opportunity to add Devin Lindsey to our team."

Lindsey resides in Brownsville with his family.

Darren Doyle, story:
After thirteen years, the county's most popular charity event has officially become a full non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Today, the group is officially known as Santa's Helping Hands, INC.

According to co-founder Mark Wardlow, who now serves as the organization's treasurer, the newly obtained status will allow them to invest even more money back into their local cause by avoiding sales tax. Wardlow said the group paid tax on over $40,000 in purchase last year alone.

Wardlow said the non-profit status was obtained through the help of attorney Mark Alcott and Shelton CPAs, LLP, who either donated their services or offered them at extremely reduced rates.

"The reason for changing the name from 'secret' to 'helping' is because it's not a secret anymore what we do, we try to help people and we hope to continue helping people in Edmonson County," said Wardlow. "In the past, Jeff Rich and I have made most of the decisions for the charity. Things have changed and we now have a seven-member board. These are people who I believe have the charity's best interest at heart and have been a huge to help to Jeff and I over the last thirteen years."

Wardlow said that all requests for help will now go before the board for approval.

"We will continue to do the exact same things we've done over the last thirteen years, which is to keep trying to assist people in this county only. Our guidelines have not changed, this is a charity for Edmonson County residents only."

Wardlow said SHH INC. will continue to raise money through raffles, golf tournaments, and the annual auction/benefit held each year at the Edmonson County Community Center, which continues to grow each year.

A raffle for a 2018 Club Car Onward golf cart will begin this week, with a limited number of only 150 tickets available. Tickets will be available for $100 each. The winner will be chosen in a random drawing during the Santa’s Helping Hands golf tournament on August 25th at Shady Hollow Golf Club. All board members will have tickets for sale and they will also be available at Cee Bee, Jacob’s Home Furnishings, and Saling's Grocery. 

Edmonson District Court was held Tuesday June 12, 2018. The Honorable Judge Joseph B. Hines Presiding. 

Noel Jaryn Orellana Carrasco, Speeding 25 mph over limit. Pleaded guilty. $50 fine. No operator’s/moped license. Pleaded guilty. $150 fine, concurrent. Total fines and costs, $293.
 
Abigal R. Abney, Assault, fourth degree, domestic violence, minor injury. Defer for six months.
 
David Dakota Forth, Disorderly conduct, second degree. Pleaded guilty, $25 fine. Public intoxication controlled substance, excludes alcohol. Pleaded guilty, $25 fine. Total costs and fines, $209.
 
Vernon Jeffery Patton, Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense- methamphetamine. Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense- opiates. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Persistent felony offender- first degree. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/26/18.
 
Patrica Jane Mills, Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense- methamphetamine. Trafficking in controlled substance first degree, first offense- opiates. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Public intoxication controlled substance-excludes alcohol. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/26/18
 
Jerrell D. Boyd, Wanton endangerment, first degree. Operating motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, first offense. Pleaded not guilty to both. Pretrial hearing 6/26/18
 
Ryan D. Littlejohn, Assault second degree- domestic violence. Violation of Kentucky E.P.O/ D.V.O Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/19/2018.
 
Jacob Austin Lewis, Possession of controlled substance, first degree, second offense- methamphetamine. Possession of controlled substance, second degree- drug unspecified. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Improper registration plate. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/19/18.
 
Billy G. Key, Rape, first degree- domestic violence. Kidnapping-minor. Sodomy, first degree w/ serious physical injury. Assault, second degree- domestic violence. Kidnapping adult. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 7/3/18.
 
Stanley Chapman, Manufacturing Methamphetamine, second or greater offense. Possession of anhydrous ammonia with intent to manufacture meth. Unlawful possession of meth precursor-first offense. Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Receiving stolen property of $10,000 or more. Trafficking in controlled substance-second degree, first offense. Continue in one week.
 
Larry D. Highbaugh II, Possession of controlled substance, first degree, second offense- methamphetamine. Obstructed vison and/or windshield. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 6/26/18.

Moriah Peterson, story:
School safety is being increased this year thanks to a joint effort from the Edmonson County School Board and the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office.  According to school superintendent Patrick Waddell, he recently met with Sheriff Shane Doyle to talk about the possibilities of increasing school safety. After discussion and research, both he and Sheriff Doyle felt confident that funding could be found and that school safety could be increased.

Thanks to funding from Title IV Part A, a student support and academic enrichment federal grant, which is part of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office will be able to provide an additional school resource officer one day a week to serve at South Edmonson Elementary, Kyrock Elementary and the 5/6 Center.  This will be in addition to the school's current full-time resource officer at ECHS and ECMS, Chief Deputy Jeff Brooks.

“Having school resource officers in our schools is the biggest deterrent against school violence, and our end goal is to have full time officers in each school," said Supt. Waddell. "This summer, buzzer systems to get into the schools, along with automatic door locks and barrier films over the windows are other ways we are making our schools as safe as we can.”  

The new school resource officer’s duties will begin in August when school starts, and it is very likely that the officer will visit multiple schools in the same day.

Sheriff Doyle stated "School safety is a top priority for your Sheriff's Office. Mr. Waddell and I have made a collaborative effort to best utilize this grant. Adding another school resource officer is another step in our effort to boost school safety and security. We're thankful to have a great working relationship with Mr. Waddell and Edmonson County Schools. This addition wouldn't be possible without funding from our school system."  

In order to receive this grant, the school had to go through a process which began with consultations with parents, teachers, students, school leaders, local government representatives, and other community partners to see where the grant money would be utilized best. Once consultations took place, Jamie Carnes, Supervisor of State and Federal Programs for Edmonson County Schools, began creating an outline of how the money would be used along with a budget for the available funds. While crafting the application, Carol Stice, Supervisor of Instruction, and Wyn Caudill, Director of Special Education, assisted with ideas to best implement the grant.

​“We’re excited for the opportunity to use this money to improve the education and safety within our schools,” said Carnes. “This grant is helping us continue to provide a well-rounded education to our students in Edmonson County.” 

​A total of $12,764 was received to support both the curricular and safety needs for the students in Edmonson County Schools. The grant will be divided between providing a school resource officer, a music curriculum for the elementary schools, 5/6 center, and the middle school, along with a bully prevention program that will kick off this fall.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson Voice was contacted by a local resident Monday morning with a report of a scam that took $1,900 from the resident's elderly parents.

The resident, who asked for neither her nor her parent's names to be published, said her parents received a phone call last week from someone claiming to be a certain family member that was in trouble while traveling in Mexico.

According to the resident, the caller requested credit card numbers. It was unclear whether the couple refused the credit card information or if they didn't have credit cards; however, the caller then instructed the couple to take cash to an area gas station/food mart and purchase Google gift cards.

The resident said that the caller provided names and numbers from those at the American Embassy and read the couple specific laws that that apparently been broken to cause this "trouble" that they faced.

After spending $1,900, the couple soon realized they had been scammed and contacted the Kentucky State Police. The resident said that KSP described the scam as a "high tech operation using voice simulators" to make it sound just like the family member was calling, and that the operation could have much more local ties than it appears.

The resident also said KSP would not likely be able to recover the scammed money because cash was used to purchase gift cards and the numbers of the gift cards were transferred to the caller. The caller's number was tracked to a pay-by-minute phone purchased in Canada.

"They were told a very elaborate story that was very believing and the voice simulator just sealed the deal," the resident told the Edmonson Voice. "This person was begging and crying for their help and played on their sympathy.  I have warned my parents so many times about this but they fell for it and others will, too.  People are so busy today they forget what kind of a world we live in anymore, but if running the story will help someone else from falling for it then that is what I want."

​Trooper Jeremy Hodges said that KSP is currently working more to educate the public on several popular scams that are currently circulating. The above scam is sometimes known as a "Grandparents Scam."

"The caller claims that they're a grandson, granddaughter, or other family member and they're traveling out of the country," said Hodges. "They describe how they've been involved in some sort of traffic violation or other trouble. They ask for money to pay a fine or to use it to get out of trouble in another way, while often asking the grandparents 'don't tell mom and dad.'"

Hodges said that more than $20K has been reported this year alone to the Attorney General's office in similar scams.

Trooper Hodges said by following these guidelines, you can help protect yourself and family members from the next phone scammer:

• Never give personal information to unsolicited callers.
• Never engage in conversation with callers, you may believe what they say.
• Never order anything they offer to increase your chances of winning.
• Never send money, give credit card or gift card numbers – you will be placed on a sucker list and your name will be sold to other scammers. – and it IS ILLEGAL

Hodges said it's important to let your family members know they need to verify any information of this type with trusted members of family.

"Call someone close by that you trust and ask them to help you research the situation. There is usually someone in your family that can find out if another family member is traveling or needs help," he said.

He also said to report any sort of scam attempt to local law enforcement.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
An early morning two-vehicle accident sent one woman to the hospital after a head-on collision in Chalybeate.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office reported that Tyler Brooks, (24) of Wingfield was heading north on KY 743 (Chalybeate School Rd.) around 6:30am today. Sheriff Shane Doyle said that according to scene evidence and witness statements, Brooks' 2014 Chevy pickup drifted into the southbound lane for an unknown reason and collided with a 2012 Toyota Sienna van.

The two vehicles collided just south of Chalybeate Church near Kinser Cemetery.

The van was driven by Tina Tunks, 54, of Brownsville, who was headed south. She was transported to the Medical Center by Edmonson EMS for non life-threatening injuries. Brooks reportedly refused medical treatment at the scene.

Both parties were reported as wearing their seat belts.

In addition to the Sheriff and EMS, the Chalybeate and Brownsville Fire Departments also responded, as well as Edmonson County JAWS.

Moriah Peterson, story:
Fiscal court was held on Monday June 11, 2018 in the upstairs courtroom of the courthouse.
 
County Road Foreman Ray Page reported that more tile work has been done on driveways and county roads and blacktop has been put over the tiles. County mowers are currently working in District one. There is still a large road tile project being completed on Beaver Dam Church Rd.
 
Sheriff Shane Doyle announced that the school resource officer contract has been signed by the Board of Education. The fee paid by the school has increased from $2330 monthly to $2500 monthly due to the increased time spent in schools from the sheriff's office. He said the school has also received a grant to provide one additional officer one day a week in other schools.  Sheriff Doyle also reported that he was contacted by Jailer Hank Vincent, who was unable to attend the meeting, who said that there are 16 total county inmates currently housed at Hart County Jail.
 
Parks & Rec Director John Kiernan stated baseball and softball are wrapping up and that there are five all-star teams. The soccer board is now offering online applications. He also announced Freedom Fest is set for June 29th at 5pm.
 
Five regional companies offered bids to fiscal court for road materials for the 2018/2019 fiscal year. Judge Executive Will Cannon read the bids aloud and after consideration the court chose to accept all bids based on convenience of location.  
 
The court has agreed to match the $1000 spay/neuter grant that is used for dogs and cats in Edmonson County.
 
Barbara Fitzugh and the St. John’s Thrift Store was acknowledged during fiscal court for their $300 donation to provide chairs for the Community Center.  The chairs have been ordered and paid for, and are awaiting shipment.   
 
Fiscal court also approved a wage increase from $10 per hour to $11 per hour for the county’s Dog Warden Kenny Heath.

After a closed session discussion the court appointed Tammi Whillhite as county treasurer to fill the remainder of an unexpired term that will end on June 30, 2019. It was voted that her position be non-exempt (hourly) and not salary.  The wage has been set to $17.00 per hour. 

The next fiscal court is scheduled for Monday, June 25, 2018 at 9am.

Darren Doyle, story: Moriah Peterson, photo:
A ceremony for the first county road to be dedicated to a local fallen soldier has been scheduled for Saturday, June 16, 2018 at the Otter Gap Church parking lot at 10am.

Noah Bledsoe Road will be the first county road to be dedicated to a fallen soldier, which will be U.S. Army Specialist Fourth Class Elzie Sanders, Jr., who was killed in action on November 12, 1967 in the Vietnam war. The county passed an ordinance in the spring of this year that will allow the public to memorialize a local county road where a soldier killed in action once lived.

SP4 Sanders' sister, Linda Hodges attended today's fiscal court meeting to present the signs that will be installed by the county road department. Under the ordinance, any county road is eligible to be memorialized if certain guidelines are followed, such as:  the fallen soldier must have been a resident of the county and lived on the particular county road for request, must have died in battle with documented proof of service provided, the sign dimension guidelines must be followed, and the county road department must be in charge of the sign installation.

Mrs. Hodges has invited the public to attend the ceremony this Saturday. 

"This thrills my heart to know this is happening," she said. "I was always afraid my brother would be forgotten, so I'm very grateful to the county for allowing us to do this."

Darren Doyle, story:
Two area residents are facing drug trafficking charges after they were arrested at the Beaver Dam Creek Baptizing Center, a property owned by a trustee board made from local churches.

According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to Arthur Road around 11am on June 7, 2018,  after they received a call about a suspicious vehicle in the area. Deputies said at first, no contact was made with any suspicious vehicle but soon after, they saw two vehicles​ park near each other on the baptizing property. 

After surveillance and investigation, a probable cause search of one of the vehicles was executed on site with the help of Brownsville Police and Edmonson County K-9 Unit Tango. Deputies reported that Vernon “Jeff” Patton (55), of Caneyville and Patricia “Patty” Mills, (40) of Brownsville were inside the vehicle where officers discovered multiple bags of suspected crystal meth that were packaged for sale, along with multiple hydrocodone pills and drug paraphernalia. A concealed set of brass knuckles was also discovered.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday June 5, 2018. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. 

​Bethany Ann Marie Leer, Speeding 21 mph over limit, Will attend county attorney traffic school. Failure to produce insurance card, pleaded guilty $100. No/expired registration plates, pleaded guilty $150.00. No/expired Kentucky registration receipt, dismissed.
 
Holly Samara Loyd, Theft by deception- include cold checks, Failed to appear. $300 bench warrant issued.
 
Corey Leonard Chandler, Speeding 17 mph over limit, Failed to appear.
 
Amit Lamba, Operating ATV on roadway. Possess open alcohol beverage container in a motor vehicle. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs. Pleaded not guilty. Continue 6/19/18.
 
Jason R. Stanka, Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Reckless driving. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference for 6/19/18.
 
Curtis Miller, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, second offense. Reckless driving. Pleaded not guilty. Continue 6/19/18.
 
Robert Lee Rich, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs. Failure to wear seat belts.  Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 8/14/18.
 
Lori Ann Bogle, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs. Disorderly conduct. Resisting arrest. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 6/19/18.
 
Abigail R. Abney, Assault 4th degree, domestic violence, minor injury. Failed to appear. $500 bench warrant issued.
 
Michael W. Colburn, Terroristic threatening, 3rd degree. Dismissed. 
 
Michael K. Snyder, Escape 3rd degree, Fleeing or evading police, 2nd degree, on foot. Resisting arrest. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 6/19/18. 

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
What looked pretty rough from the highway turned out to be nothing more than some downtime and aggravation for an area construction company when a trailer carrying heavy equipment turned over at the county line on Wednesday around noon.

According to the driver, who did not give his name, he was operating a Volvo dump truck owned by Cornerstone Construction, LLC. He said he was traveling north on KY 101 up Knob Hill and turned left onto Noah Bledsoe Rd. The dump truck was hauling a large trailer carrying a sky-lift/telehandler machine.

The driver said as he turned, he saw the trailer shift and rotate clockwise as it twisted and broke the hitch from the truck. The truck would've likely turned over as well if the hitch hadn't broken loose.

Since the truck had to make a steep climb up the hill, the driver said he wasn't traveling fast enough for the trailer to shift with speed alone, but the trailer had a blown-out tire and tire marks could be seen on the road in the turning path, which he said was a likely explanation. 

No injuries were reported and no emergency personnel were called to the scene. A tow truck later came and uprighted the trailer and the scene was cleared shortly after.

​Edmonson County Circuit Court was recently held where a Grand Jury returned the following indictments in May, 2018.

​Brandon Blanton, Assault in the first degree-domestic violence. Kidnapping-adult. Persistent felony offender in the first degree.
 
Christopher L. Brown, possession of controlled substance, first degree, first offense- drug unspecified.
 
Mathew T. Carroll, possession of controlled substance in the first degree- methamphetamine. Possession of controlled substance in the third degree. Possession of drug paraphernalia- buy possess. Reckless driving.
 
Brian Cox, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition- firearm. Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Persistent offender in the first degree.
 
James Crouch, Burglary in the first degree. Theft by unlawful taking-firearm. Theft by unlawful taking over $500. Possession of firearm by convicted felon. Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Persistent offender in the first degree.
 
Anthony L. Dale, Burglary in the second degree. Burglary in the third degree. Fleeing or evading the police in the first degree- motor vehicle.  Wanton endangerment in the first degree- police officer. Theft by unlawful taking over $500.00. Robbery in the first degree. Theft by unlawful taking or disp all others under $500.00 Burglary in the first degree.

​Ryan N. Davis, Operate motor vehicle under influence ALC/Drugs. Fourth offense. Failure to produce insurance card. Failure to wear seat belts.   
 
Caleb C. Dunn, Possession of controlled substance in the first degree, First offense (methamphetamine)- firearm enhanced. Fleeing or evading police in the second degree (on foot).  Wanton endangerment in the first degree- police officer. Operating vehicle with expired operator’s license.  Tampering with physical evidence. Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense- Meth- firearm enhanced.
 
Steven Embry, Assault in the second degree-domestic violence. Wanton endangerment in the first degree. Disorderly conduct in the second degree. Persistent felony offender in the second degree.

Amanda Garrison, Trafficking in controlled substance in the second degree, first offense-drug unspecified. Tampering with physical evidence.
 
Ronald G. Dunn Jr., Possession of firearm by convicted felon.
 
Rebecca Goldsmith, Possession of controlled substance in the first degree- meth. Drug paraphernalia-buy possess.
 
Kyle R. Whittinghill- Criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree. Theft by identity of another without consent. Theft by deception under $500.00.
 
Cody L. Haycraft, Bail jumping in the first degree. Persistent felony offender in the first degree.
 
Brett Higgs, Robbery in the first degree. Theft by unlawful taking or disp all others under $500.00. Burglary in the first degree.
 
James Johnson, Possession of firearm by convicted felon. Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess- firearm enhanced.
 
Marcus Q. Johnson, Possession of firearm by convicted felon. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess- firearm enhanced.
 
Tonya M. Johnson, Trafficking in controlled substance in the third degree-firearm enhanced. Possession controlled substance in the first degree- firearm enhanced. Tampering with physical evidence. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess- firearm enhanced. Possession of firearm by convicted felon. Endangering the welfare of a minor.
 
Silas D. Kinser, Criminal possession of a forged instrument in the first degree.
 
Sherman L. Keown, trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense- meth- firearm enhanced. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess- firearm enhanced.  Receiving stolen property- firearm. Trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, drug unspecified, firearm enhanced. Tampering with physical evidence. Trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, meth, firearm enhanced.
 

Barton A. Houchin, Possession of controlled substance in the first degree-meth. Possession of Marijuana, No registration plates. Failure to produce insurance card. Possession of controlled substance in the second degree- drug unspecified. Reckless driving.
 
Zachary A. Kinser, Reckless driving. One headlight. Possession of controlled substance in the third degree, Two counts. Unlawful transaction with a minor in the second degree. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Possession of marijuana.
 
Kristopher D. McCombs, Trafficking in controlled substance in the second degree, first offense- drug unspecified. Tampering with physical evidence.

​Ricky Neal Mulllikin, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition from building over $500. Persistent felony offender in the first degree.
 
Christian D. Price, Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Receiving stolen property- firearm. Persistent felony offender in the first degree.
 
Alex L. Perry, Knowing exploit adult by person over $300.00. Forgery in the second degree, twenty counts. Theft by deception over $10,000. Theft by unlawful taking or disposition all others over $10,000.
 
Lindsey N. Richards, Trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, meth- firearm enhanced. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess- firearm enhanced.  Receiving stolen property- firearm. Trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, drug unspecified, firearm enhanced. Tampering with physical evidence. Trafficking controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, meth-firearm enhanced.
 
Sandy N. Riddle, Burglary in the first degree. Theft by unlawful taking, firearm. Theft by unlawful taking, over $500.00. Possession of firearm by convicted felon. Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Persistent offender in the first degree.
 
Timothy R. Tomes, Possession of controlled substance, first degree, first offense- methamphetamine. Drug paraphernalia-buy-possess.  
 
Brent M. Withers, Public intoxication controlled substance- excludes alcohol. Possession of controlled substance in the first degree, first offense- drug unspecified. Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. 

​Note: An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All parties are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.