October 24, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 102414  

ONE YEAR OLD CHILD STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE

A one year old child is dead after being hit by a vehicle in Howell County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, one year old Kamber Piper was struck by a vehicle in a private driveway Thursday evening.

Piper was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

BODY FOUND NEAR BLACK RIVER IDENTIFIED

A body discovered near Black River in Butler County Wednesday has been identified.

According to Butler County Coroner Jim Akers, the body is that of 48 year old Salvador Ruis Rameriz.

Rameriz’s death is being investigated as a homicide.

According to KFVS, two people, Casey Marler and Curtis Walker, are in custody in Wright County in connection to the case.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING PURSUIT

A Scott City man is facing charges following a high speed pursuit.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, a deputy observed a vehicle going over twice the speed limit early Thursday morning on State Highway M.

The deputy tried to initiate a stop, however the vehicle continued, at one point reaching speeds of over 100 miles per hour. The vehicle was eventually stopped by spike strips deployed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The driver of the vehicle then tried to flee on foot behind a residence. He was eventually apprehended in a cow pasture.

The driver, 38 year old Matthew Lowe, of Scott City, is facing multiple charges, including resisting arrest by fleeing and creating a substantial risk of serious injury or death to any person.

REPORT OF SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY LEADS TO TWO ARRESTS

Two people have been taken into custody in connection to a report of suspicious activity at a Morley residence.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, a deputy responded to the report Wednesday morning and found a woman, 59 year old Patty Tanner, of Morley, at the residence.

She told the deputy she was there alone, however during a search, the deputy found a known fugitive, 38 year old Rollen Newsom, of Sikeston, hiding in a bedroom. Tanner claimed she did not know Newsom was in the residence.

Tanner was taken into custody after the deputy found items known to be used as drug paraphernalia, several straws and plastic baggies during a search of her vehicle.

Tanner is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. Newsom was arrested on an outstanding Scott County warrant.

MAN IN STABLE CONDITION AFTER BEING HIT BY TRAIN NEAR CAPE

A man is in stable condition after being hit by a train near Cape Girardeau late Wednesday night.

Authorities say the man, 21 year old Dejuan M. Haynes, of St. Louis, was part of a group of people shooting a music video near the tracks. The man was hit when a train approached from around a corner.

The victim received serious injuries.

VEHICLE HIT BY TRAIN IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A vehicle was hit by a train Thursday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the vehicle was struck in the back end while travelling from Piggott to Paragould.

The driver of the vehicle was taken to an area hospital.

POLICE INVESTIGATING TWO REPORTS OF INDECENT EXPOSURE

Authorities in Jonesboro are investigating two reports of indecent exposure.

Two women reported to police that a man had approached them separately in a vehicle. Both women said the man was not wearing pants at the time.

The incidents occurred within 30 minutes of each other Wednesday morning.

PINK OUT DAY GENERATES $24,000

The Annual Poplar Bluff Pink-Out Day raised a record amount of money this year for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The fifth annual Pink-Out day raised a total of $24,000 according to a release from the Poplar Bluff School District.

This year’s proceeds were split between two relief organizations, the United Cancer Assistance Network and Dig for Life.

INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS TO BE SHOWN AT POPLAR BLUFF MUNICIPAL LIBRARY

The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library will be hosting a screening of a horror classic tonight.

Doors will open for the free showing of Invasion of the Body Snatchers at 6 pm tonight. The movie will then begin at 7 pm.

Those who come in costume can participate in the Library’s Facebook Flash Mob.

October 23, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 102314  

BODY FOUND IN BUTLER COUNTY

A body has been found near Black River in Butler County.

According to authorities the body was that of a Hispanic man, although his identity is unknown.

The body was found Wednesday and is being investigated as a homicide.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOOTING

Poplar Bluff Police are investigating a shooting incident.

According to Chief Jeff Rowland with the Poplar Bluff PD, officers responded Tuesday evening to Bacon Park about shots being fired.  An investigation into the incident revealed that three vehicles were present at the time of the shooting.

Officers located one of the vehicles on Main Street, near Gardner Street.  The vehicle had sustained damage from a gunshot, which damaged the radiator, disabling the vehicle.

Rowland says several persons of interest have been identified and are being sought.

No injuries have been reported.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776.

SCHOOL EMPLOYEE UNDER INVESTIGATION FOR ALLEGED MISCONDUCT

An investigation is ongoing into a Poplar Bluff School District employee for alleged non-sexual misconduct.

According to KFVS, the family of the victim says their child has come home from the Poplar Bluff early childhood center with unexplained bruises.

The family also said that the child, who has autism, started acting differently when school started.

Poplar Bluff Superintendent Chris Hon says that an investigation has been started.

SINGLE ENGINE PLANE CRASHES IN NORTHERN ARKANSAS

Authorities in northern Arkansas say two men have been injured after they crashed an experimental airplane.

The single-engine plane crashed Tuesday evening northwest of Ozark Regional Airport in Baxter County. The men were hospitalized. The Baxter County Sheriff's Office hasn't released their names or conditions.

It's unclear what caused the crash.

Federal Aviation Administration records show the Zodiac XL aircraft is registered to 36 year old Andrew Tuberville of Lakeview.

Federal authorities are investigating.

CHILD SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER FALLING OUT OF MOVING VEHICLE

A three year old child has serious injuries after reportedly falling out a moving vehicle in Wayne County on Monday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the child opened the rear driver side door and fell out of the vehicle. The child was allegedly not wearing a safety device at the time of the incident.

Later that day, the driver of the vehicle, 38 year old Christopher D. White, of Millspring, was arrested on a felony charge of child neglect.

WAPPAPELLO MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Wappapello man is facing drug charges following his arrest Wednesday morning.

According to the Highway Patrol, 49 year old Ronald Fraga was arrested shortly after 10 am Wednesday in Wayne County.

Fraga was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and marijuana, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and speeding.

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO ONE ARREST IN POCAHONTAS

One person is in custody, while officials are searching for two others following the search of a Pocahontas duplex.

According to KAIT, methamphetamine was fond during the execution of two search warrants at the duplex on October 14^th. Bobby Martin Jr. was taken into custody at the scene.

Police say that two other people are being sought in connection to the search, Mellissa Hendershott and Aren Dewayne Henson.

DISASTER DECLARATION ISSUED FOR CRAIGHEAD AND MISSISSIPPI COUNTIES

U. S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack has made disaster declarations for farmers in two Arkansas counties that suffered losses and damage due to high winds and hail that occurred on October 7^th.

Responding to requests from Governor Mike Beebe, Vilsack issued the primary county disaster declarations in Craighead and Mississippi counties. Additionally, Crittenden, Greene, Jackson, Lawrence, and Poinsett counties were named as contiguous disaster counties.

Qualifying farmers will be eligible for federal aid, including emergency loans. Officials say farmers who feel they may qualify for the federal aid should contact their local Farm Service Agency office.

October 22, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 102214  

TENNESSEE MAN KILLED IN WRECK INVOLVING TRACTOR TRAILER

A Tennessee man is dead following a wreck Tuesday in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old David Warden, of Ripley, Tennessee, suffered fatal injuries when the vehicle he was driving ran into the back of a tractor trailer on US 412 near Hayti.

The tractor trailer then ran into a ditch; however no injuries were listed for the driver.

JONESBORO WOMAN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN WRECK

A Jonesboro woman has died from injuries she received in a head on collision last week.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 77 year old Barbera Barnett was a passenger in a vehicle that had been struck by another vehicle on October 15^th in Jonesboro.

Barnett passed away on the 18^th at a Northeast Arkansas hospital.

THREE ARRESTED IN ARKANSAS SHOOTING

Three suspects wanted in a home shooting that hospitalized three men in northeast Arkansas have been arrested in Tennessee.

Poinsett County Sheriff Larry Mills says a Tennessee trooper recognized the suspects' vehicle on Monday after the Arkansas State Police issued an alert. All three face attempted murder charges.

Authorities say the three male victims were shot at a Harrisburg home on Sunday. They were taken to an area hospital and one man was later flown to a Memphis, Tennessee, hospital. Their conditions have not been released.

MAN FACING AGGRAVATED ASSAULT AND WEAPON CHARGE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing charges after he reportedly fired a gun and threatened a person on Tuesday.

According to KAIT, 48 year old Joey Randazzo allegedly threatened a newspaper delivery driver who had stopped in Randazzo’s driveway to prepare the papers.

The driver told authorities that Randazzo had threatened to shoot him if he did not leave and also used a racial slur. Randazzo later admitted to also firing a warning shot as the vehicle drove away. Randazzo is facing charges, including aggravated assault.

TWO IN CUSTODY ON DRUG CHARGES IN SCOTT COUNTY

Two people are in custody in Scott County on drug charges.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 41 year old David Kelley, of Morley, and 53 year old Leslie Jarboe, of Richland, were arrested following a search of Kelley’s residence.

Authorities reportedly found methamphetamine and alprazolam inside the house and outbuildings, as well as three rifles, one of which had deep scratches on the serial numbers.

Kelley has been charged with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of any methamphetamine precursor drug with the intent to manufacture.

Jarboe was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for her arrest through Miller County for possession of amphetamine.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOLD INFORMATION NIGHT FOR LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM

Three Rivers College will be holding an information night for the Licensed Practical Nursing program next month.

The event will give prospective students the chance to apply for the college’s LPN program in Kennett, and find out about the requirements for entry into the program and financial aid opportunities.

The information night is scheduled for 6:30 pm at the Three Rivers College Center in Kennett on Thursday, November 6^th.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area residents will have a chance to meet with staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt Thursday in Poplar Bluff.

The mobile office will be held from 9 am to 10 am at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office on Maud Street.

ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DOWN TO 6.2 PERCENT

State officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate dipped to 6.2 percent in September. That's down from 7.7 percent a year earlier.

The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services says September's jobless rate dropped by one-tenth of a percentage point from August. The agency says the number of employed Arkansans rose by 4,500 last month in the first employment gain since March.

Five industry sectors posted job gains, with employment in government rising by 13,100 last month. Much of the increase is attributed to seasonal hiring at public schools. Jobs in educational and health services increased by 2,300, while jobs in professional and business services rose by 2,000.

The agency says the leisure and hospitality sector lost 1,100 jobs last month, primarily because of the closure of summer-related businesses.

October 21, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 102114  

ONE KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE OREGON COUNTY WRECK

An Alton man has died following a single vehicle wreck Monday in Oregon County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 45 year old Eddie Johnson ran off the side of US 160 and struck a driveway approach. His vehicle then overturned and he was ejected.

Johnson was later pronounced dead at an area hospital. He was not wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.

POLICE INVESTIGATING SIKESTON BANK ROBBERY

An investigation is ongoing into a bank robbery in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, shortly before noon on Monday, a suspect entered Alliance Bank in Sikeston and demanded cash. The suspect then fled with an undisclosed amount of money.

The FBI is participating in the investigation with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact 573-471-4711.

MAN SHOT IN BLYTHEVILLE

Blytheville police say a man was shot Monday in a possible drug related incident.

According to authorities, the man was found with a gunshot wound Monday morning. He reportedly fired shots at his shooters during the incident.

Police also found methamphetamine at the scene.

The man was identified as 42 year old Jessie Andrews III.

LEPANTO MAN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A WOMAN

A Lepanto man has been sentenced for the alleged sexual assault of a woman.

According to KAIT, 73 year old Marion O’Neal Bryan received a sentence of 12 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections in connection to the incident, which occurred in Poinsett County.

TWO ARRESTED FOLLOWING SEARCH IN SCOTT COUNTY

A Benton couple is facing multiple charges following their arrest.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 50 year old Kenneth Blankenship and 36 year old Bobbie Wipfler, were taken into custody after authorities served a search warrant at their residence Sunday night.

The search resulted in the recovery of stolen property, including a Sharp 60 inch television from a storage shed burglary in Dexter.

Authorities also discovered items considered to be drug paraphernalia; a digital scale with residue, aluminum foil and a straw with residue, and a hypodermic needle. A field test of the residue was conducted that indicated positive for methamphetamine.

Also located during the search was a .22 caliber revolver with Blankenship’s identification next to it.

Both Blankenship and Wipfler are facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, receiving stolen property, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Blankenship has also been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN DEXTER

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt

will be in Dexter later this week for a mobile office.

The meeting will be held Thursday at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission from 11 am to noon.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

OUTER ROAD IN BUTLER COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Pavement repairs will cause the closure of a Butler County road today.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Northbound outer road Route 67 in Butler County will be closed today from 9 am to 3 pm. The work zone will be located at County Road 523.

OVER 20 THOUSAND PEOPLE CAST EARLY BALLOTS IN ARKANSAS

Over 20 thousand people have cast ballots in Arkansas for the upcoming midterm election.

Secretary of State Mark Martin's office said 21,094 people had cast a ballot by late afternoon Monday, the first day of early voting for the November 4^th election. Martin has predicted 51 percent of the state's nearly 1.7 million registered voters will vote in this year's election.

Republican and Democratic party leaders say urging Arkansans to cast their ballots early is key to their get out the vote strategies for the election.

The election features Democratic U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor's heated fight for a third term against Republican challenger and U.S. Rep. Tom Cotton.

October 20, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 102014  

CHARLESTON POLICE SEEK PUBLIC’S HELP IN SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

Authorities in Charleston are investigating a weekend shooting.

According to Charleston Department of Public Safety Director Robert Hearnes, the shooting happened at around 10 am on Sunday.  Hearnes says officer responded to the area of Sy Williams Boulevard, where they found 19 year old Jadarius McCain, of Charleston, with a gunshot wound.

No suspects have been arrested at this time.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call 573-683-3737.

MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN JONESBORO

A man who was wanted for aggravated robbery has been arrested in Jonesboro.

According to a release from the Jonesboro Police Department, authorities discovered that 27 year old Marlon Braggs, Jr., of Helena-West Helena, who was wanted in Phillips County, Arkansas was in Jonesboro.  SWAT officers responded to a home on Dana Street, where they were able to take Braggs into custody without incident.

Authorities say Braggs had a stolen handgun in his possession.

Phillips County authorities say Braggs had a warrant on a charge of aggravated robbery and is also a person of interest in a murder in that county.

MORLEY MAN FACING SEX CHARGE

A Morley man has been taken into custody after being accused of committing a sex crime with a juvenile.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter says 43 year old Timothy Scott Graham was arrested Friday and charged with felony second degree statutory sodomy.

Walter says his department discovered that Graham may have been involved in an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile during an investigation into an unrelated matter.

Sheriff Walter says Graham admitted to a sex act with the child.

STEELE MAN LEADS POLICE ON HIGH SPEED CHASE

A Steele man is facing multiple charges after leading officers on a high speed chase Friday night.

30 year old Matthew David Cameron has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, resisting a lawful stop, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and careless and imprudent driving.

Authorities say Cameron allegedly led Cape Girardeau Police on a chase through several Cape streets and parking lots with a two year old in the vehicle.  The pursuit continued until Cameron crossed the Emerson Bridge into Illinois.  Members of the Alexander County Sheriff’s Department continued the chase.

Cameron was later taken into custody at an apartment in Cape.

Authorities say he had three active warrants at the time of the chase.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG WARRANT

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Friday morning on a warrant out of Arkansas.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Garry W. Wilkerson was arrested in Butler County shortly after 10:30 am on a warrant out of Mississippi County, Arkansas on a charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING PRESCRIPTION DRUG CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple drug charges after being arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The Patrol reports that 57 year old Danny R. Reed was taken into custody Friday shortly before 11:30 am in Wayne County.  Reed has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone; and possession of a controlled substance, Alprazolam.

SIKESTON WOMAN CHARGED WITH DRUG POSSESSION

A Sikeston woman has been charged with drug possession after authorities intervened an argument between her and her baby’s father.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, a deputy responded to a call about a couple arguing loudly in a vehicle.  While interviewing the pair, the deputy discovered 18 year old Michelle Marshall had drugs in her possession.

Marshall has been charged with possession of a controlled substance.

The man, whose name has not been released, is accused of squeezing the couple’s one year old child.  The Missouri Children’s Division and the Scott County Juvenile Office were notified, and the child was taken into protective custody due to substantial risk to the one year old child’s health from being squeezed in an angry manner by her father.

BENTON COUPLE FACING DRUG CHARGES

A Benton couple has been arrested on drug charges.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 50 year old Russell Eugene Turner and 40 year old Connie Yvonne Turner were taken into custody Saturday.

Walter reports that his department presented a search warrant at the couple’s home to follow-up on a previous investigation.  During the search, deputies discovered paraphernalia with residue that tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine.

Each has been charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

ROUTE Z IN STODDARD COUNTY REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

A section of Route Z in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  The affected section of roadway is located from Route 153 to Route W.  Work is scheduled to take place today through Friday, from 7:30 am to 3 pm each day.

ROUTE W IN STODDARD COUNTY REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

A portion of Route W in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  The affected section of roadway is located from Route Z to Route D.  Work is scheduled to take place today through Friday, from 7:30 am to 3 pm each day.

ROUTE M IN CARTER COUNTY REDUCED FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route M in Carter County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform culvert replacement.

Crews will be replacing several culvert pipes along Route M.  Work is scheduled to take place today through Friday, from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

ROUTE U IN DUNKLIN COUNTY CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

A portion of Route U in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe beneath the roadway.  The affected section of roadway is located between County Road 442 and County Road 430.  Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 3 pm.

MISSOURI, KANSAS DEALING WITH FEWER DEER

Missouri wildlife officials and deer hunters agree on one thing - something has to be done to reverse a continuing drop in deer population in the state.

The Department of Conservation reports Missouri hunters took 251,924 whitetail deer during last hunting season, the lowest total in a decade. In response, the state said hunters in some counties could take only one deer, rather than an unlimited number, during firearms season in the spring.

The Kansas City Star reports more restrictions are being considered.

Missouri officials blame the drop on an outbreak of hemorrhagic disease and hunting regulations that allowed hunters to take an unlimited number of does in many counties.

Kansas is dealing with a declining population also but the numbers aren't down as sharply as Missouri's.

EXPERTS SAY STINGING CATERPILLARS RARE IN MISSOURI

The Missouri Department of Conservation says residents likely won't encounter stinging caterpillars this fall, despite booming populations in southern states.

A large population of pus caterpillars in Florida this year has stung locals, leaving a swelling, burning wound.

Residents have been calling the Missouri Department of Conservation's Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center asking about the creature.

Pus caterpillars look like a brown lump of fur. The department says only a small population lives in Missouri, although they cause the most severe reaction of the state's 15 species of venomous caterpillars.

Forest Entomologist Rob Lawrence advises against touching hairy caterpillars.

Spines from the insects can be removed with scotch tape. Stings should be washed with soap and water and monitored in case of an allergic reaction.

MISSOURI TO VOTE ON TEACHER EVALUATION CHANGES

Missouri could become the first state to tie student learning to teacher evaluations in its state constitution, if enough voters support a November ballot issue.

Proposed Constitutional Amendment 3 would require a majority of teachers' evaluation scores be based on objective student performance data, which could include standardized tests.

The measure also would limit future teaching contracts to three years, ending the current tenure system that gives teachers indefinite job security after five years.

The group sponsoring the initiative recently announced that it won't be campaigning for the measure, after public opinion polling showed a lack of support.

But some education groups still are campaigning against it. They say it could lead educators to "teach to the test."

October 17, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101714  

FARMINGTON WOMAN KILLED IN COLLISION WITH TREE

A Farmington woman is dead and a young child has serious injuries from a wreck Thursday in St. Francois County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 28 year old Jennifer Roberts was pronounced dead after the car she was driving ran off the side of a road and overturned into a tree.

A one year old child in the vehicle suffered serious injuries.

SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH CLAIMS LIFE OF BOSS MAN

A single vehicle crash in Iron County has claimed the life of a Boss man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 61 year old Steve E. Jimmerson was fatally injured at around 8:30 yesterday morning, when he lost control of his vehicle, running of the right side of the road, overcorrecting, running off the left side of the road, and hitting a stand of trees.

The crash happened on Highway 49, two miles south of Viburnum.

Jimmerson was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a safety device at the time of the accident.

MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOLLOWING RAPE CONVICTION

A Northeast Arkansas man was sentenced Thursday in Mississippi County.

According to prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington, 29 year old Freddy Sharp III, of Gosnell, was convicted of the rape of an 11 year old girl.

Following the conviction, a circuit judge sentenced Sharp to 25 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

YEAR AND A HALF LONG INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARRESTS OF 12 IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A more than year long investigation into methamphetamine trafficking in Arkansas has led to the arrests of 12 people.

Authorities say officers with the Jonesboro Police Department and SWAT unit, Craighead County Sheriff’s Department, Arkansas State Police, and Second Judicial District Drug Task Force assisted members of the Drug Enforcement Administration and US Marshals with making the arrests earlier this week.

Approximately 96 pounds of meth, with a street value of around $1.9 million, was seized as a result of the investigation.

SHERIFF’S DEPUTY CHARGED WITH FELONY STEALING

The Madison County Sheriff says a sheriff's deputy has been fired and charged with stealing $40,000 from a woman while off duty.

Sheriff Robert Spain says 31 year old Eric Smith was arrested Wednesday and charged with felony stealing on Thursday. He says Smith is no longer employed by the department.

The woman tells authorities Smith was at her home on September 28^th following up on a previous call when he took the cash from her bedroom safe. Sprain says they found nearly $27,000 in cash at Smith's home and that he admitted to stealing the money.

VETERANS’ INFORMATION FAIR TO BE HELD AT POPLAR BLUFF VA

The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff will host a “Veterans Information Fair” on Tuesday, October 28 from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon in Room 45 on the ground floor of the main building.

Information on enrolling for VA health care, filing claims for service-connected conditions, employment opportunities for Veterans, education benefits, training and the appeals process will be available to Veterans who attend.

Experts will also be on hand to discuss beneficiary travel mileage reimbursement, disability benefits and emergency care. The event is sponsored by the facility’s Equal Employment Opportunity Committee.

Event organizer, Byran Carter says staff from the medical center’s Business Office, Mental Health Department, Women Veterans Program, Human Resources and Vocational Rehabilitation offices as well as the VFW Veterans Service Officer will be available to answer questions.

Individuals seeking further information may contact Carter at 573-778-4749.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN EAST PRAIRIE

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in East Prairie next week to conduct a mobile office.

The meeting will be held from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm on October 23^rd at the East Prairie City Hall.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

Motorists should be prepared for possible delays this weekend on Interstate 55 in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Northbound Interstate 55 will be reduced to one lane for pavement repairs.

The work zone will be located at the 96 mile marker underneath the Route K overpass. Work is scheduled to take place from 6 pm to 8 am daily through Sunday.

SURVEY SUGGESTS UPCOMING ECONOMIC GROWTH

A new survey suggests slower economic growth ahead in rural areas of 10 states in the Plains and the West.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said Thursday falling grain prices and weak global growth are weighing down the economy in rural areas.

The overall economic index for the region fell to 43.4 in October from September's already negative 48.2. The index has been steadily falling since June 2013 when it hit 60.5.

The survey indexes range from 0 to 100. Any score below 50 suggests decline in the months ahead.

Bankers from rural areas of Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

October 16, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101614  

WOMAN SENTENCED IN SHAKEN BABY CASE

A woman has been sentenced in connection to a shaken baby case.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, Megan Kirby was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years incarceration on a charge of abuse of a child.

A medical affidavit filed by a physician with the St. Louis Children’s Hospital, says the victim had injuries consistent with shaken baby syndrome, including bleeding around the brain.

Kirby had entered an Alford Guilty Plea in May. Oliver says that there was no plea agreement in the case.

DEXTER MAN FACING INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE CHARGE

A Dexter man is facing multiple charges after his arrest Wednesday in Scott County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 41 year old Charlie W. Gee was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Gee is also facing a misdemeanor charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

AREA MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND ALCOHOL CHARGES

A Benton area man has been taken into custody for allegedly supplying alcohol and marijuana to juveniles.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 40 year old Kevin Ray McWhirter confessed to giving children, ages 16 and 15, marijuana, and allowing them to drink alcohol. Presumed marijuana was  found during a search of his residence.

McWhirter has been charged with possession up to 35 Grams of marijuana, two counts of distributing a controlled substance to a minor, and two counts of the of supplying liquor to a minor.

FREDERICKTOWN MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY THEFT CHARGE

A Fredericktown man was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on a felony theft charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Eric E. Smith was arrested on a charge of felony theft of over $25,000.

Smith was arrested in Madison County shortly after 2:30 pm.

HOMELESS COUPLE WINS LAWSUIT AGAINST CITY OF MINER

A federal judge has awarded a homeless couple $5,000 after they were forced to leave the city of Miner under threat of arrest.

U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh Jr. issued a consent judgment Tuesday against the city and an unidentified police officer. The American Civil Liberties Union filed suit in December on behalf of Edward Gillespie and Brandalyn Orchard.

The ACLU says the couple was standing at a busy intersection in September 2013 holding a sign that read, "Traveling. Anything helps. God bless." A Miner police officer told them to leave, citing a city ordinance prohibiting vagrancy, begging and loitering.

The ordinance has since been revised.

MOBILE VET CENTER TO VISIT THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITIES

The Memphis Mobile Vet Center and the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center will be visiting three Southeast Missouri cities  next week to provide services for veterans.

The centers will be in Charleston at the VFW Post 4294 on Monday, October 20^th. The next day, the centers will move to the American Legion Post 680 in New Madrid. The third event will be held on October 23^rd at the Caruthersville Walmart.

All three visits will be held from 10 am to 2 pm.

Mobile Vet Centers offer readjustment counseling services to Veterans and service members who have served in a warzone or area of hostility and their families.

Vet Centers also extend services to family members who have experienced an active duty death and Veterans of any era who have experienced any form of military sexual trauma or harassment.

The services are available at no charge and Veterans do not need to be enrolled with VA to use the Vet Centers.

HIGHWAY PATROL TO HOLD SAFETY OPERATION THIS MONTH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be conducting a Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Project sometime this month in Southeast Missouri.

During the operation, troopers and officers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division will be concentrating their efforts on locating commercial vehicles being operated in an unsafe manner, as well as drivers committing hazardous moving violations.

Authorities will be focusing their enforcement efforts on high crash corridors and high risk areas, including work zones and rural roads.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County today and tomorrow for pavement repairs on Route M.

During the repairs, Route M will be reduced to one lane between Route 25 and Route PP.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 3 pm, today and tomorrow.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs

The work zone is located between Route E and Route 153.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE STEADY IN MISSOURI

Missouri's unemployment rate held steady in September while the state gained about 8,100 jobs.

Figures released Wednesday by the state Department of Economic Development show the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 6.3 percent last month - the same rate as August and about the same rate as one year ago.

Missouri's seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment grew by 8,100 jobs during September.

The civilian labor force of more than 3 million people grew by over 15,000 during September. The labor force counts people with jobs and those who are on unemployment but looking for work.

WEIGHT LIMIT WAVED FOR FARMERS VEHICLES

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has announced that the Missouri Department of Transportation has agreed to allow heavier than normal truck loads of farm commodities on Missouri highways.

During the waiver period, participating motor carriers will be limited to a loaded, gross weight no greater than ten percent above the gross licensed weight of the commercial motor vehicle;

Carriers will also be limited to the transport of commodities from the farm to another facility, transportation between facilities and empty return trips on non-interstate highways within the State of Missouri.

And when crossing a bridge, the driver must restrict the vehicle speed to no more than thirty miles per hour and must center the truck between two lanes of the bridge. The truck driver must also yield to oncoming traffic.

The waiver will be in effect for 60 days.

ARKANSAS VOTER ID LAW FOUND UNCONSTITUTIONAL

In a unanimous ruling, the Arkansas Supreme Court found that the state's voter identification law is unconstitutional.

The high court said Wednesday that Arkansas' Constitution lists four requirements to vote: that a person be a citizen of the United States and Arkansas, be at least 18 years old and be lawfully registered. The ruling said anything beyond that is a new requirement to vote and therefore unconstitutional.

The ruling said the qualifications in the Arkansas Constitution "simply do not include any proof-of-identity requirement."

The opinion was written by associate justice Donald Corbin.

In a concurring opinion, associate justices Courtney Hudson Goodson, Josephine Hart and Karen Baker agreed the law should be struck down, but said so because the Legislature didn't approve it with a two-thirds majority.

October 15, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101514  

NAMES RELEASED IN CARUTHERSVILLE MURDER SUICIDE

The names have been released of the people involved in a reported murder-suicide Monday night in Caruthersville.

According to the Caruthersville Police Department, a witness told Police that 52 year old David Hudgings and 48 year old Paula Hudgings had gotten into an argument at their residence and Paula asked David to leave.

David then allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Paula in the back before shooting at Paula’s daughter, 18 year old Kortni Lewis. David then fired a round at the witness but missed. He then shot himself.

David was pronounced dead at the scene, while Paula was taken to a Hayti Hospital, where she was also pronounced dead. Kortni Lewis was critically injured with a bullet wound to the arm and was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

MAN CHARGED IN DEATH OF HIS ESTRANGED WIFE

Prosecutors in southeastern Missouri's Mississippi County have charged a man in the death of his estranged wife whose body was found days after she went missing.

45 year old Clifford Williams Sr. remained jailed without bond Tuesday in Charleston on charges of first degree murder, armed criminal action and abandonment of a corpse. Online court records don't show whether he has an attorney.

Authorities allege Williams killed 45 year old Sylvia Tipler of Paducah, Kentucky. The woman who recently had moved from Pulaski County in southern Illinois was found dead Sunday afternoon in a rural area of Mississippi County. She had last been seen four days earlier.

10 PATIENTS POSSIBLY EXPOSED TO PATHOGENS AT AREA HOSPITAL

Multiple people were recently notified of possible exposure to pathogens while they were at an area hospital.

According to the Southeast Missourian, a letter was sent to 10 patients of Saint Francis Medical Center warning of possible exposure to different forms of hepatitis and HIV due to some instruments not receiving the final phase of the cleaning process.

A hospital official told the newspaper that the event was limited to 10 patients, and they were all notified.

The patients were also told that it is unlikely that any pathogens survived the cleaning process. The patients were also offered free blood testing. The official said that several of the patients have been tested and no exposure was found.

WOMAN WANTED ON SEX CHARGES ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A Northeast Arkansas woman who was wanted for the alleged rape of a young boy has been arrested.

According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, 31 year old Beth Dickerson, of Calico Rock, was taken into custody Monday in Baxter County.

An arrest warrant had been issued for Dickerson charging her with the rape of a 12 year old male and other sex charges involving underage females.

MAN INJURED DURING PURSUIT INVOLVING OFFICERS

An East Prairie man was taken to an area hospital after being involved in a wreck while being pursued by officers.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Daniel Childers was allegedly fleeing during a pursuit by a Matthews officer when his vehicle ran off the side of a county road, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Childers was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck. He was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital with serious injuries.

THREE TORNADO TRACKS REPORTED IN STODDARD AND BOLLINGER COUNTIES

Crews with the National Weather Service observed three tornado tracks across Stoddard and Bollinger Counties while surveying the damage from Monday’s storms.

According to KFVS, the first of the three EF1 Tornado tracks was located between Puxico and Sturdivant, while the other two were in the Zalma area. Peak winds were up to 110 miles per hour.

CAR FOUND IN MISSISSIPPI RIVER

A car has been found in the Mississippi River near New Madrid.

According to authorities, the vehicle was discovered by fishermen near a boat ramp and it is under investigation.

SHAKEOUT EARTHQUAKE DRILL SCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW

Three Rivers College will be holding an earthquake preparedness drill Thursday as a part of the Great Central U.S. Shakeout.

The drill will begin at precisely 10:16 am and there will also be earthquake officials conducting presentations on Missouri earthquake science, history and preparedness at the Poplar Bluff campus.

For more information on the Great Central U.S. Shakeout, visit www.shakeout.org/centralus.

HIGHWAY PATROL SERGEANT SAYS TROOPER TRAINING WAS DEFICIENT IN REVIEW OF WATER PATROL MERGER

A member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol says trooper training was deficient before the May drowning of a man under arrest in the Lake of the Ozarks.

Patrol Sergeant Randy Henry told a panel of state lawmakers Tuesday that the lack of proper training was obvious. He spoke during a second hearing in a review of the 2011 merger of the highway and water patrols.

The review follows the May drowning of a handcuffed Iowa man who fell from a trooper's boat on the Lake of the Ozarks. The trooper had arrested 20 year old Brandon Ellingson on suspicion of drunken boating.

Lawmakers now question whether the merger of the Water Patrol and the Highway Patrol overwhelmed troopers. Combining the departments was supposed to save about $3 million a year.

OPPONENTS CHALLENGING RIGHT TO FARM AMENDMENT

Opponents of a new Missouri constitutional amendment creating a right to farm have asked the state Supreme Court to overturn the election results.

A legal challenge filed Tuesday with the state's highest court contends the ballot summary presented to voters was misleading and inaccurate.

Constitutional Amendment 1 passed by a margin of just 2,375 votes out of nearly 1 million cast in an August election.

It makes Missouri the second state besides North Dakota to place farming rights in its constitution.

The ballot said the measure ensures "the right of Missouri citizens to engage in agricultural production and ranching practices."

The legal challenge says that was misleading because the rights are not limited to Missouri citizens but could apply to any farmer or rancher, including a foreign-owned corporation.

October 14, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101414  

TWO PEOPLE DEAD, ANOTHER INJURED, FOLLOWING MURDER/SUICIDE

Two people are dead, and another is critically injured, following a murder suicide incident.

Caruthersville Police Chief Tony Jones says that a man shot and killed his wife, along with himself and also critically injured his wife’s daughter. A fight had reportedly happened before the shooting.

The daughter was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital and is in critical condition. The names of those involved in the incident have not been released.

SIKESTON MAN IN CUSTODY ON DRUG CHARGE

A Sikeston man is in custody after he was allegedly found in possession of 60 grams of marijuana.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 21 year old Janeil Hatchett was arrested early Monday morning.

A deputy reportedly found 60 grams of marijuana and $4200 in cash during a search of Hatchett’s vehicle. The deputy also located 44 small zip lock type plastic baggies and a marijuana grinder during the search.

Hatchett has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, along with a misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest.

FUNNEL CLOUD SPOTTED NEAR QULIN DURING MONDAY’S STORMS

Multiple areas reported damage as a result of the storms that came through Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas on Monday.

The storms caused widespread tree damage and downed power lines across southern Bollinger County. Minor roof damage was also reported.

According to the National Weather Service, residents in Qulin reported seeing a rain wrapped funnel cloud at around 1 pm.

In Northeast Arkansas, KAIT is reporting that four homes were destroyed in Clay County. A business and two city building were also destroyed in Osceola, Arkansas.

LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDED IN MISSOURI ARTS COUNCIL GRANTS

Hundreds of entities around Missouri will be getting annual grants from the Missouri Arts Council.

The council says it is awarding 337 annual grants totaling $4.3 million during the current state budget year.

The grants will support such things as museums, theaters, concerts, ballets and local community arts organizations.

The Arts Council also plans to award about $350,000 in additional monthly grants for smaller things such as transportation for student field trips to Missouri arts institutions.

Local organizations chosen to receive grant money include the City of Poplar Bluff for the Margaret Harwell Art Museum, the Puxico R-8 School District, and the SEMO Little Theater in Kennett.

CENTER STAGE TO PERFORM MARVIN’S ROOM THIS WEEKEND

The Center Stage production of Marvin’s Room will be held this weekend.

“Marvin’s Room” is the story of two women, Bessie and Lee, torn apart by their differences and brought back together by their father’s debilitating illness.

Tickets are available for the shows on October 17^th and 18^th at 7 pm and October 19^th at 2 pm at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff. You can purchase tickets at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, the Financial Services office at Three Rivers’ Poplar Bluff Campus, or at the door.

Tickets are $10, or $5 with a valid Three Rivers student ID.

LIBRARY TO OFFER FREE KNITTING CLASS

The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library is offering a free four week class to teach beginners how to knit, just in time for Christmas gift making.

Knit for Christmas 2014 is designed to teach all ages the fundamentals of knitting, how to choose yarn and needles, how to read a pattern, how to find free online patterns, and more.

Classes will be offered on Saturdays, from October 18^th through November 8^th, from 2 pm till 4 pm.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR BUTLER COUNTY

Southbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The bridge to be repaired is located at the interchange of 158.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today and tomorrow from 7 am to 5 pm.

PIPE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY

A Carter County road will be reduced this week for a pipe replacement.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route M in Carter County will be reduced to one lane at various locations so crews can replace culvert pipes.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 4 pm daily through Friday between County Roads 101 to 151.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route U in Dunklin County will be closed today for a pipe replacement.

Route U will be closed from 7 am to 3 pm between County Roads 442 and 430 for the replacement.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS COULD DEBATE PROSECUTORS’ ROLE

Missouri lawmakers could consider legislation next year that would take local prosecutors off the case whenever a police officer shoots someone.

Republican Representative Jay Barnes, of Jefferson City, said he plans to file legislation that would give the state attorney general the responsibility for determining whether charges should be filed against police officers involved in deadly shootings.

The legislation comes after the fatal shooting of 18 year old Michael Brown by a police officer in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson on August 9^th.

St. Louis County Prosecutor Bob McCulloch is presenting the case to a grand jury to decide whether to charge officer Darren Wilson.

Some Democratic senators from St. Louis were among those who wanted McCulloch to step aside from the case because of family connections to police agencies.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO OFFER HELP TO SENIORS FOR MEDICARE ENROLLMENT

The Missouri Department of Insurance is offering free help to seniors who want to review their coverage or enroll in Medicare.

Open enrollment for the federal health insurance program for anyone aged 65 and over runs October 15^th through December 7^th.

Those who want to review their current plan, change their drug coverage or enroll can meet in person or talk on the phone with the state's Community Leaders Assisting the Insured of Missouri program.

Counselors can help low-income residents determine if they qualify for federal or state assistance in paying for prescription drugs.

Interested residents can call 800-390-3330 or visit missouriclaim.org for help.

October 13, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101314  

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE RECOVER STOLEN COMPUTER USING LOCATING DEVICE, TWO ARRESTS MADE

Two men have been arrested in connection to an armed robbery in Poplar Bluff on Friday.

According to Captain David Sutton with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers responded to a call about a burglary in the 900 block of Lester Street shortly before 4 pm.  A woman and young child were in the home, when a white male allegedly entered the residence through a window.  The woman armed herself with a golf club and confronted the intruder, who flourished a knife and exited through the window.  Sutton says the only item taken was a laptop computer.

Later that evening, a locating device on the computer indicated it had accessed the internet from a residence in the 1700 block of West Spring Street.  Officers responded to that location and arrested 53 year old Douglas Herzog and recovered the stolen computer.

Herzog told investigators he purchased the computer from 39 year old Nick Alcala.

Alcala was arrested on Saturday and has been charged with first degree burglary, armed criminal action and felony stealing.

FORMER CHARLESTON RESIDENT ARRESTED AFTER WIFE’S BODY IS FOUND IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

The body of a missing Kentucky woman was found in Mississippi County yesterday and the woman’s husband has been arrested.

Authorities say the body of 45 year old Sylvia Tipler, who was last seen with her husband Clifford Ray Williams in Ullin, Illinois on October 8^th, was discovered at Moore’s Landing.

Investigators previously believed that Tipler had been kidnapped.  The Mississippi County coroner says foul play is suspected.  An autopsy is scheduled for this afternoon.

45 year old Williams is formerly of Charleston.

EAST PRAIRIE MAN ARRESTED FOR ATTEMPTING TO SOLICIT A MINOR

An East Prairie man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to solicit a minor.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 26 year old Brian Burney has been charged with felony misrepresentation of age with intent to solicit a minor.

Sheriff Walter says a deputy with his department responded to a call Friday about a female juvenile who was attempting to run away.  The juvenile’s guardian told the deputy that the 15 year old child had been communicating with Burney on Facebook and through texts.  A review of the juvenile’s devicesd revealed inappropriate and graphically explicit messages.

Officers began a search for Burney.  He was located near the Sikeston High School and taken into custody.

JONESBORO POLICE SEEK THREE MEN IN ROBBERY CASE

Jonesboro Police are looking for three men who allegedly committed a strong arm robbery Friday.

Authorities say a man reported he was walking in southeast part of Jonesboro, when he was hit in back of the head by an object.  He told officers that three men then began hitting him, demanding money and threatening him.  He said gave them $50.

According to KAIT, the victim told investigators he believes the men were around a small maroon four door car with low profile tires and chrome wheels with a little bit of red on them before the attack.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 870-935-STOP.

FOUR KENNETT TEENS FACING DRUG CHARGES

Four Kennett teenagers are facing drug charges after officers discovered they had drugs on school property.

According to authorities, officers was dispatched to the Kennett High School around 10 am Saturday.  One male and three females were taken into custody.

The male student is facing two charges of possession of a controlled substance.  One female is charged with distribution of a controlled substance, and two females are charges with possession of a controlled substance.

JACKSON RESIDENT CHARGED AFTER CUTTING MAN WITH SWORD

A Jackson man is facing assault charges after allegedly cutting another man with a sword.

Authorities say 52 year old Kenny Pair has been charged with second degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

The incident happened at a residence in the 900 block of Old Cape Road.  Investigators believe the two men had been in an argument when the assault occurred.

The victim received what was described as a deep cut to his hand.

HARVIELL MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER CRASH

A Harviell man is facing charges after leaving the scene of a Friday afternoon crash.

Few details about the arrest have been released, but according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Joseph J. Balance was taken into custody in Butler County and charged with driving while intoxicated, drugs; and leaving the scene of an accident.

THREE RIVERS TO BENEFIT FROM SALE OF TRUST ASSETS

The University of Missouri's flagship campus in Columbia and Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will share more than $1.5 million through an agreement in a mismanaged trust case.

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster announced Friday that the agreement settled a case involving the estate of James Adams. The Piedmont man left more than 750 acres of farm land and a $700,000 maintenance trust fund in a trust following his death in 2012.

Koster said the trustees had a fiduciary duty to preserve the trust's value for charity. But he says infighting among the trustees degraded the farm's value and drained the maintenance fund.

The trust assets were liquidated September 6th during an auction in Piedmont.

ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY REDUCED FOR UTILITY WORK

A portion of North and Southbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane as contractor crews perform utility work.  The affected section of roadway is located just north of the Route 60/67 interchange.  Work is scheduled to place today through Wednesday, from 8 am to 4 pm each day.

ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY REDUCED FOR UTILITY WORK

A portion of Route W in Butler County will be reduced to one lane as contractor crews perform utility work.  The affected section of roadway is located by Shadowbrook Drive.  Work is scheduled to take place today through Wednesday, from 8 am to 4 pm each day.

MISSOURI BALLOT PROPOSES SIX DAYS OF EARLY VOTING

Missouri voters will decide next month whether they want six days to vote early without needing an excuse for why they won't show up on Election Day.

Proposed Constitutional Amendment 6 would allow early voting for six business days ending the Wednesday before a general election. The measure would take effect during the next general election, but only if lawmakers provide funding for local election offices to support the program.

Republican backers say approving the initiative would give residents more flexibility for when they can vote.

Democratic opponents and the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri say the proposed early voting period is too short and should include weekends, when residents who can't take time off work or who struggle with transportation could more easily vote.

MISSOURI LOTTERY EXPECTS SAVINGS WITH NEW CONTRACT

The Missouri Lottery says it expects to save about $700,000 a year with a vendor contract finalized amid criticism that the agency is funneling too little money to education.

The Lottery Commission on Thursday approved a seven-year contract with Rhode Island-based GTECH Corp. to provide computer gaming systems and related services.

The governor's budget office has been examining why the lottery had record sales in the latest budget year but transferred less money to schools.

GTECH's fees are paid as a percentage of sales. The new contract reduces its cut to about 4.2 percent from the 4.4 percent in its previous contract.

The lottery estimates GTECH will get about $16.1 million annually, down from $16.8 million previously. That could mean about $4.9 million in savings over seven years.

October 10, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 101014  

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF SHOTS FIRED REPORT

Two Poplar Bluff men are in custody and an officer has been injured in connection to a report of shots being fired in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers responded Thursday to a location on Park Street in reference to a report of shots fired into a residence.

A short time later, an officer attempted to stop a suspect’s vehicle, however the driver refused to stop. A chase commenced through downtown Poplar Bluff, eventually ending when the suspect’s vehicle lost control after ramming into a patrol vehicle.

A police officer sustained minor injuries in the collision.

The driver of the vehicle, 32 year old Gregory Kammerer, and a passenger, 26 year old Kevin Busby were arrested and a handgun was found at the scene.

Busby and Kammerer were each charged with assault on a law enforcement officer, felony resisting arrest, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and discharging a firearm from a motor vehicle at an inhabitable structure.

Busby is also facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

TWO MEN CHARGED IN CONNECTION TO PAWN SHOP BURGLARY

Two men are in custody in connection to a burglary of a pawn shop in August.

According to KFVS, 20 year old Nicholas Riley and 35 year old Jeremy Weber, both of Wyatt, were arrested Tuesday. Authorities believe Riley burglarized the pawn shop and Weber took the items and hid them.

Riley is facing charges of first degree burglary, property damage, and two counts of theft/stealing of a firearm. Weber is facing a charge of receiving stolen property.

MAN SOUGHT FOLLOWING CHASE

One man is being sought following a chase involving police.

According to authorities, the chase began Wednesday night in Miner before ending in Bertrand. The driver was reportedly driving a stolen vehicle and escaped on foot.

The incident is under investigation.

SEVEN ARRESTED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY ON DRUG WARRANTS

Six people were taken into custody Thursday morning on Dunklin County warrants for distribution of a controlled substance.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the arrests occurred between 6:30 and 10 am Thursday. The six arrested were 56 year old Homer Peel, 55 year old Joseph Babbitt, 36 year old Levester Rhines, 35 year old Jonahtan Conley, 30 year old Danny Nixon, and 24 year old Charles Mohr.

Conley is also facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance, valium.

A seventh person, 46 year old Shirley Jones, was also arrested during the time period in Dunklin County for a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUNK DRIVING

A southeast Missouri lawmaker says he has pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated and been sentenced to probation.

Democratic Representative Steve Hodges, of East Prairie, said he pleaded guilty Thursday in Cole County Circuit Court to two charges stemming from incidents earlier this year.

Hodges says his driver's license was suspended and he was sentenced to two years of probation. He was also ordered to participate in a substance abuse traffic offender program.

The 65 year old lawmaker was first elected to the House in 2006 and is barred by term limits from seeking re-election this year. Hodges was cleaning out his Capitol office Thursday but does not plan to resign before his term ends in January.

He says he completed a voluntary 30-day substance abuse treatment program earlier this year.

MULTIPLE CHILDREN EXAMINED FOR INJURIES FOLLOWING SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT

Eight children were examined for minor head and neck injuries following an accident Thursday involving a school bus.

According to KAIT, a Westside School District bus was rear ended by another vehicle while near the county line of Craighead and Greene Counties.

The driver of the other vehicle, 22 year old Kyle Mitchell, of Bono, was taken into custody on charges of DUI and refusal to submit a blood test.

ARKANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL WARNS OF MEDICARE SCAMS

Attorney General Dustin McDaniel is warning Arkansas consumers who are eligible for Medicare to stay alert for possible scams during open enrollment.

Medicare open enrollment begins October 15^th. During that time, senior citizens 65 and older have the option to review their current plans and make whatever changes they choose.

McDaniel says consumers shouldn't provide personal information or account numbers in response to unsolicited calls or email and to be wary of callers who claim to be from a hospital, doctor's office, or state and local health agency.

He also says many offers of free medical supplies or complimentary checkups are ways for unscrupulous groups to gain access to personal information.

For more information about Medicare open enrollment or other consumer issues, visit www.GotYourBackArkansas.org.

MISSOURI LEGISLATORS CONSIDERING APPEAL ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE RULING

Missouri House Speaker Tim Jones says lawmakers may take matters into their own hands in an attempt to defend the state's ban on same-sex marriage.

Republican leaders in both the House and Senate have criticized Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster for announcing that he won't appeal a recent decision by a Jackson County judge.

Circuit Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled last week that Missouri must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. It was the first ruling to put a dent in Missouri's constitutional prohibition on gay marriage.

Jones says lawmakers are reviewing their legal options in light of Koster's decision not to appeal. He said one option could be for legislative leaders to try to intervene in the case and request an appeal.

October 9, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100914  

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

One person has died following a single vehicle wreck in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred Tuesday evening in Independence County.

A vehicle driven by 37 year old Clarence Holland, of Batesville, Arkansas, hit a dirt bank and overturned, ejecting Holland in the process. Holland was killed in the wreck.

A passenger in the vehicle suffered undisclosed injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

MAN FOUND WITH METH AND MULTIPLE KNIVES AT AREA JAIL

A Mississippi County man is facing multiple felony charges after being found with drugs and weapons at an area jail.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, an officer arrested 30 year old John L. Groves on Saturday after learning Groves’ driving status was suspended and that he had an active warrant through New Madrid County for felony stealing.

During the arrest, Groves stated that he did not have any weapons or drugs. However, during the jail intake process, officers discovered a white substance that tested positive for methamphetamine and three knives on Groves.

Groves is facing charges of delivery or concealment of a knife into a jail, delivery or possession of a controlled substance into a jail, possession of a controlled substance, and driving while suspended/revoked.

BERNIE WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE

A Bernie woman is facing a meth charge following her arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Cindy Jordan was arrested at 11:20 am Wednesday on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN FACING COUNTERFEITING CHARGE

A Cape Girardeau man is in custody on a counterfeiting charge.

According to Corporal Darin Hickey, Saturday afternoon 20 year old Seth B. Stevens was arrested for minor visibly intoxicated. Following the arrest, an investigation was started regarding fraudulent state identification cards.

Items were reportedly found at Stevens’s residence that was consistent with the manufacture and sale of fake state driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Warrants were issued for Stevens for possession of forging instrumentalities and counterfeiting.

ESCAPED INMATES BACK IN CUSTODY

Two inmates who escaped from a Madison County Jail are back in custody.

According to KFVS, 22 year old Matthew Carver and 18 year old Tyler Stephens escaped from the jail shortly after 1 pm Wednesday. They reportedly scaled a fence in the recreation yard.

They were both recovered at around 8 pm near the jail.

SITE NEAR PARAGOULD NO LONGER ON SUPERFUND LIST

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says a former auto equipment site near Paragould has been removed from the list of Superfund sites that pose risks to people's health and the environment.

The EPA says the Monroe Auto Equipment Company used the site to dispose of sludge that came from the company's manufacturing plant in Paragould from 1973 to 1978. The EPA estimates that more than 10,000 cubic yards of sludge was disposed of in sand and gravel pits.

The site was added to the National Priorities List of Superfund sites in 1990. Cleanup and excavation at the site was completed in 1999, and environmental officials have been monitoring the groundwater since then.

The EPA announced Wednesday that no further action is needed at the site.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A road in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today for pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 80 in New Madrid County will be reduced today from 8 am to 3 pm due to the repairs. The work zone will be located between Route B and Route 61.

MORE ARKANSAS STUDENTS TAKING ADVANCED PLACEMENT TESTS

The Arkansas Department of Education says more students are taking Advanced Placement tests - and scores on those exams are going up, too.

The department says more than 25,000 students took the tests last school year, which is a nearly 5 percent increase over the previous year. Students who score a 3 or higher on a scale of 1 to 5 can receive college credit hours.

More than 14,000 tests received scores of 3 or higher, marking a 6.4 percent increase from a year earlier.

The most popular AP exams in Arkansas last year were English language, English literature, U.S. history and world history. State law requires every Arkansas high school to teach at least four Advanced Placement classes in the subject areas of math, science, English and social studies.

October 8, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100814  

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL ASSAULT

A Jonesboro man has been sentenced to 60 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 13 year old girl who became pregnant.

The Jonesboro Sun reports the 28 year old man took a deal with prosecutors Monday and pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree sexual assault. He will receive credit for 235 days spent in jail and will be eligible for parole in 10 years.

Authorities say he started assaulting the girl in 2012 when she was 13 years old. The girl's mother says the man was living with them when the assaults began.

The victim gave birth to a daughter last year. She tells authorities the man threatened to hurt her mother if she told anyone.

NEW MADRID WOMAN ARRESTED ON CHARGES OF CHILD MOLESTATION AND SODOMY

A New Madrid woman was arrested Tuesday afternoon on multiple sex related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Jaleesa Newson was arrested on felony charges of second degree child molestation and second degree sodomy.

Newson was arrested in New Madrid County at 2:30 pm Tuesday.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FLEEING FROM POLICE

A man has been taken into custody after allegedly fleeing from authorities in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Monday, a patrolman observed a vehicle travelling on Russell Street at a high rate of speed.

The officer tried to stop the vehicle and after a short chase the driver fled on foot.

The driver, Cortez Hightower, was later found and arrested. He is facing a charge of felony fleeing. Hightower also reportedly had a felony warrant out of Wisconsin for probation violation.

PARAGOULD POLICE SEARCHING FOR WOMAN IN CONNECTION TO CREDIT CARD THEFT

Paragould Police are searching for a woman in connection to the theft of a credit card.

Police say that the woman is wanted for questioning in reference to the theft. A picture of the woman, along with information on how to contact the Paragould Police Department is available on our Facebook page.

ANNUAL POWER OF THE PURSE PARTY TO BE HELD ON OCTOBER 9TH

The third annual Power of the Purse party will be held this week.

The event is hosted by the Designing Women Foundation and will feature designer purses, belts and other accessories. In addition, a diamond necklace valued at $375, which was donated by Whitworth’s Gift Chest Jewelry, will be raffled off.

Proceeds from the event will go to support the Foundation’s scholarships and programs.

The Power of the Purse Party will begin at 5 pm tomorrow at the Bloodworth House. Admission is $10 at the door or $5 plus a new children’s book (for pre-kindergarten to 6th grade) that will be given away by the Foundation at Christmas.

DRIVER EXAMINATIONS STATIONS TO BE CLOSED FOR COLUMBUS DAY HOLIDAY

Driver Examination Stations throughout the state of Missouri will be closed for an upcoming holiday.

According to the Highway Patrol, the stations will be closed in observance of Columbus Day on Monday, October 13^th. Normal operations are set to resume the following Tuesday.

TODAY IS DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN UPCOMING ELECTION

Today is the deadline to register to vote in the upcoming general election.

According to Secretary of State Jason Kander, Missourians can register to vote at their local election authorities, as well as any Department of Motor Vehicles office or state agency that provides services to the public.

To be eligible to register, you must be 18 years of age by Election Day, a U.S. citizen and a Missouri resident.

The general election will be held on November 4^th.

REPORT SAYS SOME ENTITIES ARE HAVING PROBLEMS COMPLYING WITH SUNSHINE LAW

Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich says too many public entities are violating state laws about closed meetings.

Schweich released a report Tuesday showing that about 15 percent the nearly 300 entities he audited over the previous two years had some of sort of problems complying with the state's Sunshine Law.

That's an improvement from the nearly 20 percent problem rate during audits conducted in 2010 and 2011. But Schweich says there is plenty of room for more improvement.

He says many of the problems related to closed meetings where governmental entities either failed to document the reason for meeting secretly, discussed topics they shouldn't have or didn't keep adequate minutes of the closed sessions.

October 7, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100714  

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF THREE PEOPLE

An investigation in Poplar Bluff has led to the arrest of three people.

According to the Daily American Republic, 39 year old Robert Jamaine Lewis and 26 year old Sade Lashaye Anderson, each of St. Louis, were arrested Friday night on suspicion of selling heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A third person, 29 year old Jamar Mario Griffin, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody on warrants out of Madison County.

Over $2,000 and approximately eight grams of heroin were reportedly seized during a search.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF METH IN WAYNE COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff man was arrested on a meth related charge Monday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 34 year old Dennis King is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia; endangering the welfare of a child; and speeding, 102 miles per hour in a 65 mile per hour zone.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff woman was taken into custody Monday afternoon on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Sharon Perry was arrested in Butler County on charges of driving while intoxicated, drugs; possession of a controlled substance,  hydrocodone; and failure to maintain the right half of the roadway resulting in an accident.

METH LAB LOCATED IN CHARLESTON

Authorities in Charleston reported report having found a meth lab while executing an arrest warrant.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, officers served an arrest warrant Friday night for 39 year old Richard Humphrey, of Charleston, on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

While executing the warrant, officers allegedly found a meth lab. Humphrey was taken into custody on the original warrant.

Authorities say that additional charges of manufacturing a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia are pending.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INCIDENT RESULTS IN ARREST OF SIKESTON MAN

Authorities say that a Sikeston man has been taken into custody in connection to a domestic violence incident.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 21 year old James Dylan Revelle is facing charges of second degree domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, delivery or concealment of a controlled substance into a jail, and first degree trespassing.

Revelle allegedly produced a knife and threatened to cut his father’s throat during an incident on Friday.

Revelle was asked if he had anything illegal on his person prior to arriving at the jail. He stated he did not, however during the jail intake process, a small amount of marijuana was found in Revelle’s wallet.

INMATE FOUND DEAD IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Arkansas State Police are investigating the death of a 37 year old inmate found dead in his jail cell.

The Jonesboro Sun reports a Marked Tree Police Department employee found 37 year old James Ford on September 20. The employee says Ford was found hanging by a bed sheet in the cell.

The city police chief tells investigators Ford didn't indicate that he was suicidal and didn't cause trouble.

He had been arrested on suspicion of drunken driving and driving on a suspended license.

WARRANT ISSUED FOR ILLINOIS MAN IN CAPE GIRARDEAU ROBBERY

A warrant has been issued for an Illinois man in connection to the robbery of a Cape Girardeau McDonald’s.

The warrant was issued for 32 year old Otha Don Watkins III on charges of first degree robbery and armed criminal action. According to the warrant, Watkins is accused of stealing money from the business while armed with a silver handgun.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL WINS STATE CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP

The Poplar Bluff High School Competition Cheer Squad is state champions for the second year in a row.

The team won the Class 4 Large Squad division of the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association State Championship at the University of Missouri on Sunday.

The entire campus community lined the streets to welcome the cheerleaders back to the High School on Monday.

BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERING FREE FLU CLINICS

The Butler County Health Department has announced that various free flu clinics will be offered throughout the month of October.

The first clinic has been scheduled for 2 to 6 pm on Wednesday, October 8^th, at the Butler County Health Department. Dates and times for additional clinics are available online at butlercountyhealth.org.

NEW PRESIDENT OF MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS WANTS MORE DONE TO ASSIST CRIME VICTIMS

The new leader of the Missouri prosecutors' association says more needs to be done to assist crime victims.

Boone County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Knight recently took over as president of the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys.

Knight says that fewer than half of Missouri's counties have advocates based in prosecutor's offices to help crime victims. He says that's "woefully inadequate" and that prosecutors must do more to ensure crime victims' rights are protected.

Over the next year, Knight says the organization also plans to outline best practices for law enforcement investigations and prosecutions.

October 6, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100614 TWO VEHICLE CRASH CLAIMS LIFE OF PARAGOULD WOMAN

A two vehicle crash Friday has claimed the life of a Paragould, Arkansas woman.

Authorities say 33 year old Jennifer Hill was fatally injured in the crash, which happened on Highway 412 in Green County.

They say Hill’s vehicle was struck by a vehicle being driven by 46 year old Paul Whitehead, of Jonesboro, after Whitehead crossed four lanes of traffic after losing control of his vehicle.

Two children in Hill’s vehicle were not seriously injured. ONE ARRESTED IN EARLY MORNING ARMED ROBBERY

Police in Cape Girardeau are investigating an early morning armed robbery.

According to KFVS, the incident occurred shortly after 3 am at the McDonald’s on Broadway Street. They say a male subject fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Authorities say they have a suspect in custody. An investigation is continuing to determine if any other suspects were involved. CAPE POLICE INVESTIGATE WEEKEND SHOOTING

Police in Cape Girardeau are investigating a weekend shooting.

Authorities say the incident happened shortly before 12:30 am Saturday at the intersection of Morgan Oak and South Sprigg Street. A male individual was shot multiple times and is in a local hospital in stable condition.

Sergeant Jason Selzer with the Cape Girardeau Police Department says this was the second shooting in three days in Cape. He says it is unknown at this time if the two shootings are related and that any relation between the two incidents will be looked into. MAN ATTACKED IN JONESBORO

Jonesboro Police are looking for three men after a man was attacked Saturday morning.

Authorities say a 38 year old man was allegedly assaulted Saturday morning at the intersection of Matthews and McDaniel. The victim told officers that three men beat him and stabbed him in the arm. The victim also received a broken leg.

The victim told police that he was from out of town. EAST CAPE BOUNCER SHOT AT LOCAL CLUB

A man working as a bouncer at an East Cape Girardeau club has been shot.

Authorities with the Alexander County Sheriff’s Department responded to a call from a neighbor of The Pony at around 4:30 am Sunday about shots being fired. Upon arrival, it was discovered that a bouncer had been shot in the arm. SCOTT CITY PAIR IN CUSTODY IN STOLEN VEHICLE CASE

Two Scott City residents are in custody in a stolen vehicle case.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 31 year old Jennifer Niswonger has been charged with tampering with a motor vehicle and stealing, and 32 year old Trevor Niswonger has been charged with possession of stolen property.

An investigation into two stolen vehicle led officers to Trevor Niswonger, who admitted to investigators that his ex-wife, Jennifer Niswonger had given him several stolen items that had been taken from the same residence where the vehicles had been taken from, and that she had admitted to stealing the vehicle.

Officers are looking for a third person believed to have been involved in the theft. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 573-545-3525. THREE ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY METH BUST

Three Marston residents have been arrested after officers found methamphetamine during a search on Friday.

Authorities say the New Madrid County Special Response Team and the SEMO Drug Task Force conducted a search at 501 East Cypress Street in Marston. During the search, investigators discovered several items commonly used to ingest drugs that tested positive for the presence of meth.

Three people in the home, Christopher Barbre, Lori Cook and Joshua Brown were taken into custody. Each has been charged with possession of a controlled substance. TWO IN JONESBORO FACING DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A traffic stop Saturday morning has led to the arrest of two Northeast Arkansas residents.

According to authorities, Jonesboro Police initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of Wood and Church Streets. They say the K-9 unit alerted them that there was a controlled substance in the car.

A search of the vehicle revealed methamphetamine, pills, and paraphernalia.

49 year old Diane Johnson and 33 year old George Hill were taken into custody. A list of charges against the pair has not yet been released. SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 57 IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY REDUCED FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS

Southbound Interstate 57 in Mississippi County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs. The bridge is located on Route B over Interstate 57. Work will take place from 8 am to 3 pm. ROUTE Z IN PEMISCOT COUNTY CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route Z in Pemiscot County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway. This affected section of roadway is located from Route 412 to County Road 412. Work will take place today from 7 am to 3:30 pm. ROUTE 25 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced with a 12 foot width restriction today and tomorrow as the Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. The affected section of roadway is located between Russell Street and Route E. Work will take place today starting at 7 am, with the lane reopening at 4 pm tomorrow.

October 3, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100314  

POLICE INVESTIGATING CAPE GIRARDEAU SHOOTING

Police in Cape Girardeau are investigating a shooting that occurred yesterday.

According to the Southeast Missourian, a man was found with a gunshot wound to the leg Thursday afternoon at a residence on South Pacific Street.

A suspect has not been identified and the incident is under investigation.

ONE IN CUSTODY, ACCUSED OF STABBING IN CANALOU

One person is in custody in New Madrid County after being accused in a stabbing incident.

Few details have been released in the case, but it is known that the stabbing occurred in Canalou at around 10:30 Wednesday night.  The victim received serious injuries.

We’ll bring you more details on this story as they become available.

DEXTER MAN FACING DRUG CHARGE

A Dexter man is facing a drug charge following his arrest.

Bernie Police arrested 47 year old Sidney Williams after discovering a dog had its mouth taped shut.

Police also reportedly found hydrocodone and methamphetamine during the arrest. Williams is facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

PRESCRIPTION NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF EAST PRAIRIE MAN

A prescription narcotics investigation has resulted in the arrest of an East Prairie man.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 42 year old Jerry Corbin is facing a felony charge of fraudulently attempting to obtain a controlled substance.

Corbin allegedly been seen by numerous physicians around Southeast Missouri, and used several different pharmacies to obtain controlled substances. At one point, he hitchhiked with his eight year old daughter from East Prairie to Benton for an appointment.

THREE RIVERS AWARDED OVER $650,000 GRANT

Three Rivers College has been awarded over six hundred thousand dollars in grant money in order to expand partnerships between local employers and the college to provide job training.

The $660,000 MoSTEMWINS grant was awarded by the Department of Labor. The College will use the funding to purchase assessment and training equipment for mechanical and electrical skills, programmable logic and computer numeric controllers, and process control technology.

According to a release from TRC, the new equipment will be integrated into the college’s Industrial Technology programs, as well as used to enhance the Advanced Manufacturing programs.

TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR CHILDREN SAFE FOR CRIME PREVENTION MONTH

Today, we finish our series for National Crime Prevention Month with some tips from the Missouri State Highway Patrol on keeping your children safe.

The Highway Patrol says to make sure your children know their name, address, phone number, and your work number and how to use the telephone properly in an emergency situation.

Parents are encouraged to listen to their children’s worries and problems. Make sure you know where your children are going, who they will be with, and when they will return. Also, be sure to learn their friends’ names and phone numbers.

A full recap of all safety tips released by the Highway Patrol for National Crime Prevention Month is available on our Facebook page.

MISSOURI TO TAKE PART IN ANNUAL EARTHQUAKE DRILL

Missouri is taking part in a multi-state earthquake drill designed to teach participants to "drop, cover and hold on."

The Missouri Department of Public Safety says more than 400,000 residents are registered to participate in the Great Central U. S. "ShakeOut" earthquake drill on October 16^th. Last year, more than 2.4 million people in 10 states took part.

Many Missouri residents live within the New Madrid seismic zone, one of the most active in the country.

State Emergency Management Agency Director Ron Walker said in a news release that he encourages schools, businesses and families to consider participating in the drill.

REVENUES UP IN MISSOURI

Missouri revenues are up 3.8 percent through the first quarter of the new budget year.

Figures released Thursday by the state Office of Administration show that individual income and sales tax collections both rose for the three-month period ending in September.

The 3.8 percent increase in net general revenues marks a turnaround from last fiscal year, when state revenues declined by 1 percent. But it remains short of what's needed to meet the budget.

Legislators had forecast a growth rate of 4.2 percent and Gov. Jay Nixon had assumed a 5.2 percent growth rate for this year. Because the budget began with less money than expected, state budget director Linda Luebbering says Missouri now needs a greater than 10 percent growth rate to meet the budget.

ARKANSAS SUPREME COURT HEARS ARGUMENTS ON VOTER ID LAW

Arkansas Supreme Court justices are questioning whether the state's constitution allows requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls.

Justices heard oral arguments Thursday in the challenge to the voter ID law enacted last year by Arkansas' Republican-led Legislature.

An attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas and the Arkansas Public Law Center said the law infringed on the right to vote and violated the constitution by placing a new qualification for casting a ballot.

An attorney for the Arkansas Secretary of State says the law is merely a mechanism to ensure that voters are registered and that it is constitutional.

Pulaski County Circuit Judge Tim Fox previously found the law unconstitutional but suspended his ruling pending the appeal.

October 2, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100214

HEAD-ON COLLISION KILLS TWO NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MEN

A head-on collision early yesterday morning has claimed the lives to two Northeast Arkansas men.

The Arkansas State Police report the crash occurred south of Marmaduke on Highway 49 in Greene County, Arkansas, when a vehicle driven by 29 year old Andrew Paul Mross, of Paragould, crossed the centerline and struck a second vehicle, driven by 25 year old Adam Gore Wheeler, of Rector.

Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.

BIRCH TREE MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN SHANNON COUNTY

A Birch Tree man is facing multiple felony charges after his arrest Tuesday evening in Shannon County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 44 year old Timothy L. Bryant has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and violation of the national firearms act.

Bryant was also charged with driving while suspended and possession of drug paraphernalia.

HOME AND VEHICLE SAFETY TIPS

October is National Crime Prevention Month and the Missouri State Highway Patrol has released some tips to help residents keep their homes and vehicles safe.

The Highway Patrol says that you should have good locks on all of your exterior doors and windows and also make sure that you use them. Be sure to keep your vehicle locked, as well.

Don’t hide a house key under the doormat or in a flowerpot. Give a key to a trusted neighbor instead.

If your car breaks down, raise the hood or tie a white cloth to the street side door handle. Stay in your locked car. Call *55 on your cellular telephone to reach the nearest Missouri State Highway Patrol headquarters and ask for assistance.

If you don’t have a cell phone with you, wait in your car. If someone stops and offers assistance, ask them to make the call for you.

Tomorrow we will finish up our series on National Crime Prevention Month with tips on keeping your child safe.

THREE RIVERS RAIDER RODEO KICKS OFF TONIGHT

The first annual Three Rivers Raider Rodeo will kick off tonight at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple competitions spread out over the three night event, including bull riding, barrel racing, and bronco riding.

The event is National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association-sanctioned, and will feature top competitors from 16 college rodeo teams in the Association’s Ozark Region.

Participating colleges include Arkansas State University, Michigan State University, and the University of Tennessee at Martin and Knoxville, as well as Three Rivers College.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm tonight, tomorrow and Saturday, with the rodeo starting at 7 pm each night. Tickets will available for $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 12 and under.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON WEDNESDAY

A Mobile Office will be held next week in Ripley County.

During the Mobile Office, area citizens will have the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns they have with the federal government with members of Senator Roy Blunt’s staff.

The Mobile Office has been scheduled for October 8^th, from 10 am to 11 am at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.

REGULATORS REJECT COMPLAINT AGAINST AMEREN MISSOURI

Missouri utility regulators have rejected a complaint alleging that Ameren Missouri has been earning more than it's entitled to on its electric rates.

The Missouri Public Service Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to dismiss the case brought by Noranda Aluminum and various individual electric customers.

Commissioners said the complaint had focused on Ameren's earnings through 2013 but failed to take into account additional costs incurred this year by the St. Louis-based utility.

State regulators also rejected a request by Noranda to reconsider its decision denying an electric rate reduction for the company. Had it been approved, Noranda's requested rate cut could have resulted in higher rates for other Ameren customers.

Ameren Missouri is the state's largest electricity provider, with about 1.2 million customers.

MISSOURI LAWMAKER WANTS CITIZENS TO VOTE ON ABOLISHING THE STATE LOTTERY

House Majority Leader John Diehl wants to let voters decide whether to abolish the Missouri Lottery.

Diehl wants the Legislature to refer a measure to the 2016 ballot that would ask whether the 30 year old lottery should continue.

Diehl told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he believes the lottery is an "unstable and "inefficient" source of funding for public education. He also questioned the lottery's $16 million advertising budget.

The lottery had record sales in the 2014 budget year but transferred less money to education than the previous year.

That prompted Governor Jay Nixon to order a review of the lottery's operations and replace all five of its commission members.

A little less than one-quarter of the lottery's proceeds go to education. The rest goes to prizes and operations.

TROOPERS TRAINING UNDER QUESTION BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS

State representatives are raising concerns over whether troopers patrolling Missouri's waterways were properly trained following a 2011 highway and water patrol merger.

During a hearing Wednesday at the Capitol, lawmakers questioned Missouri State Highway Patrol officials on how much training troopers receive before heading onto the water.

The review comes after the death of a 20 year old man who drowned May 31^st in the Lake of the Ozarks. A state trooper had arrested the man for drunken boating and handcuffed him before the man slipped into the water and out of his lifejacket.

The hearing is the first of several intended to review management and training in the Highway Patrol since the water patrol was folded into its operations.

October 1, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100114  

MAN ARRESTED AFTER CHASE INVOLVING POPLAR BLUFF POLICE

A Mexico, Missouri man is facing charges after a car chase yesterday ended in a wreck.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the pursuit began after an officer attempted to execute a traffic stop on a vehicle that had been reported in a gas drive off. The vehicle eventually ran off a County Road and hit a utility pole.

The driver of the vehicle, Michael Paul, was arrested; while a passenger in the vehicle was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries. The passenger said that he repeatedly asked Paul to stop and let him out of the vehicle; but Paul refused.

Paul is facing charges of felonious restraint, second degree assault, resisting arrest, and a number of traffic violations. He also had an outstanding Audrain County warrant for forgery.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AFTER STANDOFF IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A recent standoff in Dunklin County ended in the arrest of an area man.

According to KFVS, 29 year old Derek McCoin was arrested on charges, including endangering the welfare of a child, following the standoff on September 27^th.

McCoin allegedly held a victim inside the home at knife point during the incident.

KENNETT POLICE ARREST THREE AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE

Kennett Police have arrested three men after a high speed chase on Tuesday.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers attempted to stop a vehicle after observing that it had an expired license plate, however the vehicle continued driving at a high rate of speed.

During the chase, the three occupants jumped out of the vehicle and fled on foot. The vehicle then continued on and crashed into a residence. No one was injured.

The three men, 26 year old Jonathan L. Beal of Kennett, 23 year old Eddie L. Taylor of Kennett, and 21 year old Edriko L. Thomas of Hayti, were captured and taken into custody.

The three men are each facing a charge of resisting arrest. The driver, Jonathan Beal, is also charged with leaving the scene of an accident, careless and imprudent driving, and driving without a license.

MCGEE MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG RELATED WARRANT IN STODDARD COUNTY

A McGee man is facing a drug related charge following his arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, David H. Hamlyn Jr. was arrested on a warrant for selling or manufacturing imitation controlled drugs.

HIGHWAY PATROL OFFERS SOME TIPS ON WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF IDENTIFY THEFT

October is Crime Prevention Month. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has offered some tips for what to do if you are the victim of identity theft.

First, you should notify the credit bureaus, your creditors, your bank, and law enforcement. When you are dealing with authorities and financial institutions, you should keep a log of all conversations, including dates, times, names, and phone numbers. Also, keep copies of all letters and documents.

The Highway Patrol also has more detailed information available online at mshp.dps.mo.gov.

Tomorrow we will be looking at some tips for home and car safety.

BEE GEES TRIBUTE BAND TO PERFORM AT TINNIN CENTER

The Three Rivers College Patrons of the Arts Society will be kicking off the 2014-2015 season with a tribute to a famous 1970’s band.

“Night Fever: A Bee Gees Tribute Concert” will be held on Tuesday, October 14^th, beginning at 7 pm at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. There will be performances of some of the best-known hits of the Bee Gees, including “Staying Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “More Than a Woman.”

Tickets are $10 each and are available online at trcc.edu/tinnin, at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, Dexter Chamber of Commerce, the college Financial Services office and will also be available at the door.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD IN OREGON COUNTY

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office next week in Oregon County.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The mobile office is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8^th, 2014 from 1 pm to 2 pm at the Oregon County Courthouse.

MISSOURI AUDITOR RELEASES REPORT ON STATE PENSIONS

A new audit shows Missouri's public employee retirement plans are generally in better financial shape than those nationwide, though there is still some cause for concern.

The report by State Auditor Tom Schweich examined 89 public pension systems that are set up to pay defined benefits to 546,000 people.

One measure of a pension system's financial health is the ratio of future retirement payments that are funded by current assets. The aggregate funded ratio for public pension plans in Missouri declined from 83 percent in 2003 to 78 percent in 2012. But the audit says that's several percentage points better than the nationwide figures.

The audit says some of Missouri's public pension plans are in "very good financial condition" while others have a "very poor financial condition."

September 30, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 093014  

JACKSON MAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION

A Jackson man is dead following a two vehicle wreck in Perry County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred early Monday morning on Missouri Highway 51.

A vehicle driven by 48 year old Barry Sander reportedly crossed the center line and hit another vehicle head on. Sander was pronounced dead at the scene.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY OF AN AREA BUSINESS

A Cape Girardeau man has been arrested in connection to the robbery of an area Dollar General Store.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, Sunday morning a clerk at the store told officers that a man had entered the store and displayed a handgun before escaping with an undisclosed amount of cash.

During an investigation into the incident, a suspect was identified and taken into custody. 23 year old Tyler O. Johnson is facing charges of first degree robbery and armed criminal action.

PISTOL STOLEN FROM NORTHEAST ARKANSAS BUSINESS

Authorities in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas are investigating a theft from an area business.

According to the Walnut Ridge Police Department, someone broke into Russell's Pawn early Sunday morning and stole a Ruger Standard Mark II .22 Caliber pistol.

Anyone who has information about the theft is asked to call 870-886-3568.

LARGE AMOUNT OF DRUGS REPORTEDLY FOUND DURING SEARCH OF A VEHICLE

Two women are facing charges after authorities reportedly found drugs during a search of a vehicle.

According to KFVS, authorities say that a large amount of drugs and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle.

27 year old Rachel Nicole Achter and 18 year old Christina Hope Ray are each facing charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

MAN IN CUSTODY AFTER AUTHORITIES FIND MARIJUANA GROW OPERATION IN POCAHONTAS

One man is in custody after authorities reportedly confiscated 37 marijuana plants from a home in Pocahontas, Arkansas.

According to KAIT, 37 year old Brian Smith is facing charges of manufacturing of a schedule six substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Authorities say the plants were in various stages, including seedlings.

There was also a ventilation system and grow lights at the home.

POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY HOSTING 1^ST ANNUAL LOCAL AUTHOR FAIR

A local author fair will be held this Saturday as a part of the Iron Horse Festival.

The fair will be at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library from 10 am to 2 pm. Booths are being provided to authors at no cost. For more information, contact Shannon Mangrum at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library by calling 573-686-8639.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE IN FINDING A DOG

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in finding a dog.

According to the Police Department, the dog was at Steak-n-Shake Friday morning between 8 and 8:30 am. A Hispanic male reportedly took possession of the dog and the police department is trying to locate both of them.

If you have any information about the whereabouts of the dog or the man that took the dog, please contact Poplar Bluff Animal Control at 686-8635 or Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776.

A picture of the dog is available on our Facebook page.

TURKEY POPULATION ON THE REBOUND IN MISSOURI

State scientists say Missouri's wild turkey population appears to be on the rebound.

The Department of Conservation says it has observed a higher ratio of young turkeys to hens than compared to the average over the past five or 10 years. Some of the strongest numbers have been reported in northern Missouri, which had been most affected by a downturn in turkey production that began in the early 2000s.

The department says Missouri has now had strong turkey reproduction in three of the past four years. That means hunters should start seeing more turkeys in the woods.

MISSOURI COMMUNITY COLLEGES INCLUDED IN FEDERAL GRANTS ANNOUNCED MONDAY

Missouri community colleges are getting $19.7 million from the federal government to train more students and collect data about them.

The Missouri funding was included in $450 million of job-training grants announced Monday by the White House and federal education and labor departments.

A little less than $15 million will be used to hire instructors and purchase equipment to teach an additional 1,900 students in science, technology, engineering and math fields.

About $4.7 million will be used to collect data on Missouri community college students who are enrolled short-term certificate programs, similar to data already collected on students in courses that award credit hours.

The federal grants are similar to ones received by Missouri 2011 and 2012. That $35 million went toward community colleges programs in health and manufacturing.

September 29, 2014

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WOMAN WANTED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES, INCLUDING RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

Authorities in Izard County, Arkansas say a Calico Rock woman is wanted on multiple charges, including rape and sexual assault.

According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, 31 year old Beth Dickerson allegedly raped a 12 year old boy and had inappropriate sexual relationships with two females, ages fourteen and fifteen.

Dickerson is facing charges of rape, fourth degree sexual assault, and sexual indecency with a child. She is described as being 5 foot, 3 inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call Investigator Charlie Melton at the Izard County Sheriff’s Office at 870-368-4203.

  KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE WARRANTS

A Kennett man was taken into custody Friday on multiple warrants.

On Friday, the Kennett Police Department, along with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, served a federal search warrant at a residence in Kennett.

Officers reportedly found a loaded pistol along with an undisclosed amount of a controlled substance during the search. 31 year old Nicholas J. McIntee was arrested on warrants for burglary and felony stealing.

The investigation is still considered ongoing, and the Kennett Police Department says investigators are currently seeking possible further federal charges.

  WOMAN REPORTEDLY KILLED BY DOG IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A woman in Northeast Arkansas is dead after getting attacked by a dog.

According to KAIT, 75 year old Alice Payne, of Cave City, was reportedly attacked by her pitbull. Payne was found dead and had apparent bite marks on her arms, neck, and face.

Officers put the dog down and the incident is under investigation.

  BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Bernie man is facing a drug charge following his arrest Sunday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Christopher W. Opiela was arrested shortly after 5:30 am Sunday in Stoddard County.

He is facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

  TWO ARRESTED ON ROBBERY CHARGE IN KENNETT

Two people were taken into custody on a robbery charge in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Police Department, Friday afternoon, officers were dispatched to a residence in reference to a robbery. While on the way there, the officers learned the suspects had left the scene in a vehicle. A short time later, two suspects were taken into custody during a traffic stop.

27 year old Edward Jones and 24 year old Danyel Williams, both of Kennett, were each arrested for robbery second degree.

  HIGHWAY PATROL ADVISING MOTORISTS TO WATCH OUT FOR DEER

With October approaching, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to watch out for deer.

Deer are most active during the mating season of October and November, and the majority of accidents involving deer occur in those months.

The Highway Patrol says Missouri recorded nearly 3,500 deer-vehicle accidents last year. No one was killed, but 303 people were hurt.

In addition to mating season, hunting and crop harvesting may cause more movement among the animals.

The patrol says motorists who see a deer should slow down and proceed with caution. Deer often travel in groups so if you see one, there may be more to follow.

  MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TEST TO BE SUSPENDED FRIDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced that the motorcycle skills test will be suspended later this week in Poplar Bluff.

The test will be suspended on October 3rd due to another event at the site. Written examinations and Class E and Class F skills tests will be offered as normally scheduled.

Motorcycle skills testing will resume at the Poplar Bluff Driver Examination Station on Monday, October 6th.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be in Stoddard County this week for pavement repairs.

Route Z in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane between Route W and Highway 153 for the repairs. Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily through Friday.

  WEEK LONG DITCH WORK PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route U in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform ditch work.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 725 to County Road 727.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Friday from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily.

  NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

A New Madrid County road will be reduced to one lane this week for pavement repairs.

Weather permitting, Route W in New Madrid County will be reduced from 7 am to 3 pm daily through Friday. The work zone will be located between Route Z and Route D.