December 23, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 122314  

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING BOLLINGER COUNTY WRECK

One person has died following a two vehicle crash Monday afternoon.

According to the Highway Patrol, 29 year old Mark Lindsey, of Park Hills, lost control of his vehicle on Missouri Highway 34 near Grassy, crossed the centerline and was hit by another vehicle.

Lindsey was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle suffered minor injuries.

WOMAN CHARGED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING

A Manila woman has been arrested in connection to a shooting last week.

According to the KAIT, Felicia Ashabranner is facing charges for the shooting of Henry Neese, of Blytheville. Neese was reportedly shot in the stomach on December 16^th.

Ashabranner has been charged with domestic battery and discharging a firearm in city limits.

SUSPECT SOUGHT IN REPORTED ARMED ROBBERY

A suspect is being sought in connection to a reported armed robbery in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, two people reported to Jonesboro Police that a man came into their motel room and took their money and cell phones at gun point. The suspect also allegedly hit one of the victims with a pistol.

The incident occurred Saturday night.

KENNETT OFFICER SHOOTS AND KILLS DOG

A Kennett Police officer reportedly shot and killed a dog while on duty Sunday.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers spoke with several citizens that had reportedly been chased or attacked by several vicious dogs.

An officer attempted to make contact at a home where the dogs resided when the pack of approximately six dogs came from the rear of the residence and charged at the officer.

The Police Department says the officer had no choice but to use lethal force to protect himself from the dogs. One of the dogs sustained fatal injuries and a second received a wound to the face, however it is expected to survive.

The dogs’ owner had been out of town and it is not clear as to exactly how the dogs were able to get free from the residence.

CABOOL MAN ARRESTED ON FIREARM CHARGE

A Cabool man was taken into custody Monday on a firearm charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Luke Riley is facing a charge of felon in possession of a firearm. Riley was arrested shortly before 9 pm in Shannon County.

EDGE RUT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route 80 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

The work zone is located between Route B and Route AA.

Weather permitting, work will performed from 8 am to 3 pm daily through Wednesday.

HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDS MOTORISTS TO DRIVE SAFELY OVER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to drive safely over the Christmas holiday.

Remember to check your vehicle before you travel to ensure that it is in good working condition. Make sure you are well rested before driving to your destination, no matter how short the distance.

According to the Highway Patrol, last year over the Christmas holiday, there were 207 traffic crashes during the 30-hour counting period. In those crashes, one person was killed and another 79 were injured.

If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone.

Motorists should use this number if they are in a traffic crash, witness a crash or crime, or observe a stranded motorist in need of assistance, or other traffic emergencies.

MISSOURI’S LARGEST ELECTRIC COMPANY OUTLINES PLANS FOR OVER $130 MILLION INVESTMENT

Missouri's largest electric company says it plans to invest $135 million in energy efficiency programs for customers over a three-year period.

Ameren Missouri filed information about its energy efficiency efforts Monday with the Missouri Public Service Commission. The proposal for 2016 to 2018 includes incentives for people to buy energy efficient light bulbs, appliances and air conditioners. Incentives also would be available for businesses.

Consumers would see a line item on the bills recouping the costs of the energy efficiency programs. But Ameren says customers ultimately will save money, because the utility won't have to build as many power plants.

Ameren's proposed energy efficiency program would succeed one that runs through the end of 2015.

Ameren Missouri serves about 1.2 million electric customers.

MISSOURI MINIMUM WAGE TO GO UP 15 CENTS

Missouri's low-wage workers are getting a small pay hike in 2015.

Starting New Year's Day, the state's minimum wage will increase by 15 cents to $7.65 an hour. The minimum wage for tipped workers in Missouri will rise by 9 cents to $3.83 per hour.

A law passed by voters in 2006 provides an annual cost-of-living adjustment to Missouri's minimum wage.

The National Employment Law Project said in a news release that Missouri is joined by 19 states that will also raise their minimum wage on New Year's Day.

The advocacy group for low-wage workers says the minimum wage increases will boost pay for a total of 4.4 million workers, including 136,000 in Missouri.

FRAUD SUSPECTED IN SIGNATURES FOR EARLY VOTING MEASURE

The Missouri secretary of state's office says it referred several cases of potential fraud to local prosecutors this year involving an initiative petition drive about early voting.

A report from Secretary of State Jason Kander says the names of some deceased people had been signed on petitions seeking to qualify the early voting measure for the ballot. It says other people's names also were listed who did not actually sign the petition.

Kander's office says it referred the irregularities to prosecutors in Boone, Buchanan, Cooper, Grundy, Knox, Pike and Schuyler counties.

Republican political consultant Jeff Roe says he commissioned his own review of the signatures and found an even larger number of potentially fraudulent ones than had been identified by state officials.

The early voting measure did not make the November ballot.

December 22, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 122214  

MAN STABBED AT BUTLER COUNTY RESIDENCE

An area man was reportedly stabbed Friday at a Butler County residence.

According to the Daily American Republic, 34 year old Michael Melvin, of Poplar Bluff, was stabbed in the shoulder and back area after he allegedly forced his way into the residence and got into a physical altercation with two men there.

Melvin was taken to an area hospital with a punctured lung and is in serious, but stable condition.

CAPE GIRARDEAU WOMAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING SIKESTON CONVENIENCE STORE ROBBERY

A Cape Girardeau woman has been charged in connection to a weekend robbery.

According to Captain James McMillen, 29 year old Amanda Carr was taken into custody following the alleged robbery of a convenience store in Sikeston. Employees say Carr robbed the store with a large butcher knife.

Carr has been charged with robbery and armed criminal action.

QULIN MAN FACING CHARGES OF TAMPERING WITH A MOTOR VEHICLE AND POSSESSION OF METH

A Qulin man was arrested Sunday in Butler County on multiple charges, including tampering with a motor vehicle.

According to authorities, 26 year old Cody Vaughn is facing multiple felony charges, including receiving stolen property; possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and first degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

Vaughn also reportedly had multiple warrants from the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

TWO ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGE

Two people were taken into custody Friday in Wayne County on methamphetamine related charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 28 year old Eric Evans, of Poplar Bluff was arrested at 11:30 am Friday. 10 minutes later, 23 year old Christina Isbell, of Campbell, was also taken into custody.

The Highway Patrol did not release if the arrests were related, however they are each facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. Evans was also charged with felony delivery of an imitation controlled substance.

THREE ARRESTED FOLLOWING EMERGENCY CALL IN SCOTT COUNTY

An emergency 911 call in Scott County has led to the arrest of three Sikeston residents.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 29 year old Wade Griffin, 26 year old Natish Newman, and 53 year old Michael Newman were taken into custody Saturday.

Griffin has been charged with second degree domestic assault, possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of first degree child endangerment.

Natish Newman is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of child endangerment in the first degree.

Michael Newman has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE

A Cape Girardeau man is facing a meth charge following his arrest Friday morning.

According to authorities, 32 year old Randy Lewis was arrested in Cape Girardeau County on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; resisting arrest; and property damage.

CAPE GIRARDEAU TEEN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A Cape Girardeau teenager was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 18 year old Sterling Satterfield was arrested in Cape Girardeau County on felony charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance.

SIKESTON POLICE INVESTIGATING WEEKEND FIRES

The Sikeston Department of Public Safety is investigating two structure fires that occurred Saturday night.

According to authorities, at around 9:30 pm officers responded to a structure fire at 803 Woodruff that resulted from a chimney fire.

Shortly thereafter, a second structure fire was reported to DPS at 504 Wilson Street. Upon arrival officers found an abandoned structure engulfed in flames.

Authorities think the fire is suspicious and the cause is under investigation.

EXPANSION AT AREA BUSINESS TO INCLUDE 91 JOBS

A planned expansion of an area business will include over 90 new jobs.

According to the Daily American Republic, Mid Continent Nail is planning on an almost $5 million dollar expansion that will include a new line at its original Poplar Bluff plant.

The expansion will also include the hiring of 91 workers.

MISSOURI LEGISLATIVE LEADERS SAY ANTI-ABORTION MEASURES NOT PRIORITY FOR NEW SESSION

Missouri's legislative leaders say anti-abortion measures are not among their main priorities next session.

Eight bills have been filed so far as the legislative session that starts January 7 nears.

The dimmed interest follows Republican lawmakers' success in September in overriding a veto by Gov. Jay Nixon to enact one of the nation's longest waiting periods for abortions.

The GOP now has even greater numbers to override a veto by the governor.

But legislative leaders say their focus will be on economics and education instead of potentially divisive abortion bills.

Anti-abortion lobbyist Sam Lee of Campaign Life Missouri says a bill for annual health inspections of clinics has the best chances of passing.

Other abortion-related bills include a hotly contested measure to require the father's permission for an abortion.

MISSOURI SECRETARY OF STATE REDUCES OPERATING BUDGET FOR HIS OFFICE

Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander says he is reducing the amount of state tax revenue needed for his office.

Kander said his general revenue request for the 2016 operating budget, which begins next July, will be the smallest for the secretary of state's office since 1999.

The Democratic secretary of state says he is shifting some office costs off of Missouri tax dollars to previously existing special funds. Kander says he also has eliminated some positions and spending. He says he saved $20,000 by reducing the size of a business registration reminder that is mailed out.

ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY OFFICIALS DISCUSSING MERGER WITH MID-SOUTH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Officials say progress is being made toward a merger agreement between Arkansas State University and the Mid-South Community College.

Both the ASU board of trustees and the MSCC board of trustees have scheduled meetings on Jan. 9 to consider the plan.

ASU President Charles L. Welch says MSCC officials have done an excellent job of outlining their expectations and vision for the institution. Welch says officials are enthusiastic about the system's ability to help achieve their goals in education and workforce training.

If approved by the boards of the two schools, the merger would be effective July 1 following approval of the Higher Learning Commission. MSCC President Glen Fenter says that would give officials ample time to work through the legislative session and budget planning for the next year.

December 19, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121914  

ARKANSAS MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Horseshoe Bend man is dead following a single vehicle accident in Izard County, Arkansas.

According to Izard County Sheriff Tate Lawrence, 54 year old Randy Johnston was travelling on LaCrosse Road when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to flip several times and eject him.

Lawrence was pronounced dead on arrival at an area hospital.

ABSCONDED SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED

An absconded sex offender from Burfordville has been arrested.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, 18 year old Tristen Grable was wanted on a probation violation on an original charge of child molestation.

He was taken into custody on Thursday.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED AFTER FIRING SHOTS IN BEDROOM

A Dexter man is under arrest after allegedly firing shots into a bedroom window.

According to the Dexter Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence Wednesday in reference to gunshots. Officers located the suspect inside his bedroom, sitting on a bed with a deer rifle laying across his legs. The suspect then pointed the rifle at the officers.

Officers negotiated with the man for around six minutes in an attempt to retrieve the rifle. Officers eventually rushed the suspect and were able to get the rifle and take the suspect into custody.

The suspect's name is being withheld until official charges are filed by the Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

TWO IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO MULTIPLE THEFTS

The New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department says two Memphis men are in custody in connection to thefts in Southeast Missouri.

A nearly year long investigation lead to arrest warrants being issued for Rickey V. Smith and Edward E. Cummings.

The sheriff’s department says the suspects were involved in thefts last year in Matthews, Portageville, and Steele. They have since both been arrested in Memphis.

PRESIDENT OBAMA COMMUTES KENNETT MAN’S SENTENCE

President Barack Obama has commuted the sentence of a Kennett man who was in prison on a drug charge.

According to the Department of Justice, Antonio Gromyko Reeves was sentenced in 2004 to 188 months in prison for distribution of five grams or more of cocaine base.

On Wednesday, the President commuted the sentence to now end on April 15^th of next year.

MISSOURI OFFICIALS AGREE ON NEW REVENUE PROJECTIONS

Missouri officials are ratcheting back their expectations for the state's finances while forecasting modest growth for the future.

Governor Jay Nixon said Thursday that he has agreed on new revenue projections with budget leaders from the Missouri House and Senate. That agreement is noteworthy, because the Democratic governor and Republican lawmakers were unable to reach a consensus revenue estimate a year ago.

The officials now are predicting Missouri revenues of $8.37 billion for the 2015 fiscal year that runs through June. That's down about $367 million from what Nixon originally had forecast and down about $218 million from what lawmakers originally predicted.

The governor and legislators are predicting the state's 2016 revenues to grow by about 3.6 percent over that revised forecast for 2015.

HOME CARE WORKERS CALL ON GOVERNOR NIXON TO IMPLEMENT HIGHER WAGES

Missouri home care workers are calling on Gov. Jay Nixon to implement higher wages for their work.

Nine workers and care recipients wearing Santa hats caroled outside the governor's mansion Thursday to ask that he enact a pay raise ratified by the state Quality Home Care Council.

Workers help recipients with daily tasks they can't otherwise manage on their own, such as brushing their teeth or putting on clothes.

The new agreement would require they be paid between $8.50 and $10.15 an hour based on wage recommendations from those they care for.

Home care attendants say contractors that pay them might not adhere to the new wage rates without pressure from Nixon.

December 18, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121814  

MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON ON CAPITAL MURDER CHARGE

A man is facing life in prison after being found guilty of capital murder.

A jury found 24 year old Tevarius Green guilty Wednesday for the death of a Blytheville man, who was reportedly shot in the head in July of 2013.

Green received a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

SEVEN YEAR OLD BOY INJURED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING INCIDENT

Police in Northeast Arkansas say a 7 year old boy has been wounded by another boy while target shooting.

Ravenden Police Chief Tim McComas told the Jonesboro Sun Tuesday that the boy had minor surgery and is expected to make a full recovery. He says the victim and another 7 year old boy were firing a .22-caliber gun on Sunday while an adult was present.

McComas says the victim walked into the other boy's line of fire and was struck in his lower body.

BENTON MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED STATUTORY RAPE

A Benton man is facing a statutory rape charge.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 20 year old Dustin Sauceda has been charged with first degree attempted statutory rape by attempting sexual intercourse with another person under 14 years old.

Sauceda was arrested Tuesday afternoon. During an interview with authorities, he reportedly confessed to a specific sexual act with the victim.

PROSECUTOR FINDS OFFICER’S SHOOTING OF PARAGOULD WOMAN JUSTIFIED

A Northeast Arkansas prosecutor has ruled that a police officer was justified in the shooting of a Paragould woman earlier this month.

On December 10^th, Tonya Turner reportedly ran at an officer with a large kitchen knife. The officer shot Turner twice in the stomach. Turner was injured in the incident and taken to an area hospital.

According to KAIT, 2nd Judicial District Prosecutor Scott Ellington says that the officer was justified in using deadly force.

SIX INJURED IN SCOTT COUNTY WRECK

Six people were injured Wednesday afternoon during a two vehicle wreck in Scott County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Patricia Robinson, of Caruthersville, was allegedly driving the wrong way on Interstate 55 and caused a nearly head on collision with another vehicle.

Robinson, four passengers in her vehicle, and the driver of the second vehicle all suffered serious injuries in the wreck.

POPLAR BLUFF TO RECEIVE FEDERAL FUNDING

Poplar Bluff is among 12 communities in Southeast Missouri that will receive federal transportation alternative funds.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the funding is to allow communities to develop projects that improve the quality of a community and enhance the travel experience for people traveling by all modes.

Some of the projects submitted for funds consisted of trails, historical preservation projects and sidewalks.

In addition to Poplar Bluff, Bloomfield, New Madrid, and Butler County will also receive funds.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route P in Dunklin County will be closed today as the Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

The work zone is located between County Road 513 and County Road 509.

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

BRUSH CUTTING TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Wayne County today and tomorrow.

Route HH in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane from Route 34 to the Reynolds County line so crews can perform brush cutting.

Work is scheduled to be performed today and tomorrow from 8 am to 2:30 pm each day, weather permitting.

BILL WOULD REQUIRE EATING DISORDERS TO BE COVERED BY HEALTH CARE PLANS

Health care plans would have to cover eating disorder treatments under proposed Missouri legislation.

State Senator David Pearce of Warrensburg recently filed a bill requiring coverage for diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of the disorders. Coverage would include specialist services recommended by a patient's treatment team.

Under the measure the Department of Insurance would be required to make an annual report to lawmakers regarding those insured and treated for eating disorders.

SMALL CONCERNS RAISED IN MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AUDIT

A new audit faults the Missouri Department of Agriculture for failing to inspect some grain and petroleum devices and giving sizable pay raises to several employees.

But Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich says those are "relatively small" concerns. Schweich says the Agriculture Department audit released Wednesday is probably the best of any major state agency during his four years in office.

State audits don't typically list positive findings, just areas of concern.

The audit questioned the need for significant salary increases given to six employees during the 2013 budget year and to four employees during 2014. The department said the raises were generally due to increased job responsibilities.

The department pointed to staff shortages for failing to complete inspections of some petroleum devices and grain meters.

December 17, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121714  

NEW MADRID MAN SENTENCED FOR 2013 HOMICIDE

A New Madrid man has been sentenced in connection to a 2013 homicide.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Joseph Thornton was sentenced to 35 years for the homicide of Jeremie Johnson, along with 5 other assaults.

Thornton allegedly hit several subjects, including Johnson, with his vehicle at a Sikeston residence. Other victims struck by the car, including two children, were transported to various hospitals for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

MAN SENTENCED TO 50 YEARS ON CHARGES INCLUDING ATTEMPTED RAPE

A Northeast Arkansas man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to multiple charges including attempted rape.

According to authorities, 23 year old Kevin Maget, of Jonesboro, was sentenced to 50 years in prison on charges of attempted rape and second degree sexual assault.

Maget was arrested in connection to an incident involving a 12 year old girl.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

Two East Prairie residents were recently taken into custody on drug charges.

According to authorities, 33 year old Ronnie Brawner Jr. and 30 year old Ashley Cobb were arrested. Brawner is facing charges of distribution of a controlled substance near government housing and trespassing, while Cobb has been charged with possession of a controlled substance.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT TO BE FEATURED ON MTV SERIES

A Poplar Bluff High School senior will be featured on the MTV series “Rebel Music: Native America.”

Darian Sales was one of 36 Native American teen correspondents invited to attend the Tribal Nations Conference on December 1^st, at the White House.

MTV covered the conference for the series which, in a future episode, will feature Sales exploring her Native American heritage. Sales discovered she was part Choctaw Indian four years ago.

OVER 60 WEATHER RADIOS DONATED TO BUTLER COUNTY SCHOOLS

Over 60 weather radios have recently been donated to schools in Butler County.

On December 8^th, Butler County Emergency Management Director Jeff Shawan donated 65 weather radios to all of the schools in the county, including at least one device for every facility within the Poplar Bluff R-I school system.

The donation was made through a grant for $1,000 from the Walmart foundation that was then matched by the Butler County Commission.

MEDAL OF VALOR TO BE GIVEN TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI DEPUTY

A deputy from the Scott County Sheriff’s Department will be awarded with the Medal of Valor tomorrow by Governor Jay Nixon.

Justin Wooten will be honored for pulling two crew members out of burning train in May of 2013.

Wooten will be a part of a ceremony with 9 other law enforcement officers on Thursday.

WEEKLONG DRAINAGE REPAIRS PROJECT SET FOR STODDARD COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County over the next week for drainage repairs on Business 60.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 9 am to 4:30 pm daily through December 23^rd. During the repairs Business 60 will be reduced to one lane between Cooper and West Oak streets.

EDGE RUT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route 80 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

The section of roadway is located between Route B and Route AA.

Work will performed daily through Friday, from 9:30 am to 3 pm daily.

BILL WOULD GRANT AMNESTY IN CERTAIN DRUG CASES

A proposed Missouri bill would give legal amnesty to those seeking emergency medical help for drug overdoses.

Republican state Representative Bryan Spencer of Wentzville recently proposed a bill protecting those who call for help from being charged with some drug crimes.

Some who call an ambulance for themselves or others would be immune from charges of drug possession, but there are stipulations. The amnesty only kicks in if the individual has less than a certain amount of an illegal substance.

For example, someone with more than three grams of heroin, cocaine or morphine would not be protected. Police still could arrest those if they already had suspicion that they were committing illegal activity before calling for help with an overdose.

MISSOURI UNEMPLOYMENT RATE HITS LOWEST POINT IN OVER SIX YEARS

Missouri's unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest point in more than six years.

The state Department of Economic Development released data Tuesday showing the seasonally adjusted jobless rate dropped from 5.9 percent in October to 5.6 percent in November.

That puts the unemployment rate at its lowest rate since May 2008.

Seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment grew by 4,500 jobs in November, bringing the number of new jobs for the year at more than 42,000.

MISSOURI OFFICIALS WITHDRAW SCHOLARSHIP PROPOSAL

Missouri higher education officials are backing off an attempt to make scholarships available to students at an online university.

The Department of Higher Education has withdrawn a proposed rule change for scholarship eligibility that would have redefined what it means for an institution to be "located in Missouri."

The intent was to make Access Missouri scholarships available to students at Western Governors University-Missouri, an online only school.

A legislative committee had been scheduled to meet Wednesday to decide whether to block the proposed rule.

A group of private Missouri colleges and universities opposed the scholarship change, partly because of fears that an expanded pool of eligible students would mean less money for each recipient.

An education department memo says the proposal was withdrawn to provide time for further discussions.

December 16, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121614  

AUTHORITIES IN STODDARD COUNTY SEARCHING FOR MISSING MAN

Authorities in Stoddard County say a family has reported a man missing who was last seen six weeks ago.

According to KFVS, 53 year old Kenneth Willard, of St. Francois County, was last seen in the area of Sturdivant and Arab in Stoddard County. Willard has a family farm in Stoddard County and was reported missing by family on Sunday.

Willard is described as 5 foot, 11 inches tall, with brown hair and blue eyes. He also has a heavy build and tattoos. He was reportedly wearing blue jeans and a shirt when he was last seen. Anyone with information on Willard’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office.

THREE DIE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

Three people are dead in connection to a single vehicle wreck Sunday in Mississippi County, Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, a tire blow out caused the driver of the vehicle, Francisico Figurero, of Chicago, Illinois, to lose control, overcorrect, and drive into a ditch off of Interstate 55.

Three passengers in the vehicle, Elva Figurero, Gabriel Figurero, and Navor Medina, all from Chicago, died from injuries received in the wreck. The driver suffered undisclosed injuries and was taken to a Memphis hospital.

FOURTH DEATH IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS HOME EXPLOSION

A fourth person who was injured when a home exploded at Lake City, Arkansas last month has died.

The Jonesboro Sun reports that 66 year old Gary Gilley died Friday at a Memphis hospital.

Gilley's death comes two days after 49 year old Ellis Glen Eaton died at the same hospital of injuries he suffered in the blast. Gilley's 64 year old wife, Deborah Gilley, and 11 year old Slade Gilley were both killed in the November 29 blast.

A 12 year old was also injured but has since been released from a hospital.

Investigators have said Gary Gilley and Eaton were connecting a gas line to a propane tank for a stove at Gilley's home when a gas leak inside the home caused the explosion.

IDENTITY RELEASED OF BODY FOUND IN CARTER COUNTY

The identity of a body found last month in Carter County has been released.

According to the Daily American Republic, the body was identified as 64 year old Susan Hamric, of rural Van Buren.

Hamric’s body was discovered by a hunter in a wooded area on November 23^rd. The cause of death has not been determined.

WOMAN REPORTEDLY USES STOLEN CREDIT CARD TO BUY A TELEVISION IN POPLAR BLUFF

Police in Poplar Bluff say a woman reportedly used a stolen credit card to purchase a television Saturday night.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 10 pm Saturday, officers received a report that someone had broken into a vehicle on Pine Street and stolen a purse.

A credit card taken with the purse was used at a local business just before the theft was discovered. Surveillance video footage captured a white female using the card to purchase a large flat panel television with the stolen credit card.

Police say the suspect has been identified; however the identity has not been released.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN SCOTT COUNTY IN CONNECTION TO SHOPLIFTING INVESTIGATION

A shoplifting investigation has lead to the arrest of a Jackson woman on a drug charge.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 28 year old Genny M. Jones is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and stealing.

On Sunday, officers received a report of shoplifting from a business in Oran. Jones was arrested later that day after authorities reportedly found items stolen from the business and pills during a search of her vehicle.

BRUSH CUTTING TO CAUSE POSSIBLE DELAYS IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route A in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane today and tomorrow so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform brush cutting.

The work zone is located from Route 49 to Williamsville.

Work will be performed today and tomorrow from 8 am to 2:30 pm each day.

STATE INSURANCE DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDING REDUCTION IN PREMIUMS FOR WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE

The Missouri insurance department is recommending a reduction in the premiums charged to businesses for workers' compensation insurance.

The department is recommending a 4.4 percent decrease in insurers' "loss costs" for 2015. Those loss projections typically are used by insurers when setting rates.

Department Director John Huff says the reduction is due to a decrease in medical claims costs, a decline in large losses in 2012 and a downward trend in the frequency of claims for lost time at work.

The state's recommended reduction is slightly more than had been indicated in a report three months ago by the National Council on Compensation Insurance.

LAWMAKER TO MAKE ANOTHER ATTEMPT AT BILL THAT WOULD EXPAND E-VERIFY SYSTEM

A failed measure to require employers to use a federal system for checking employees' legal resident status will have another chance in the Missouri Legislature.

State Representative Mark Parkinson of St. Charles on Monday announced plans to file a bill that would expand the E-Verify system to all state businesses.

The Republican says it could reduce the number of immigrants working illegally in Missouri.

Missouri already requires public and private employers that receive loans, contracts or grants from the state to participate in the federal work authorization program.

Parkinson's bill also would increase the penalties for noncompliance, including as much as $10,000 in fines or revoking business licenses.

Immigrant advocates and business leaders say the program is not always accurate and places a burden on employers.

December 15, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121514  

SUSPECT FATALLY SHOT BY POPLAR BLUFF POLICE, MORE DETAILS RELEASED

The name of a man who was shot and killed by a Poplar Bluff Police Officer Friday has been released.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Therrell Jowers was fatally shot when he rushed toward officers with a knife.

Authorities say the incident started Friday morning shortly before noon, when Poplar Bluff Police responded to a call about a stabbing on Lester Street.  When they arrived on the scene, they found the victim, who was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.  An investigation led officers to a suspect who was at a location on South Broadway.  As officers entered, Jowers charged at them with a knife.  An officer fired at the suspect fatally injuring him.

The stabbing victim’s condition has been upgraded to fair condition.

The shooting is being investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.  The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave until the investigation is completed.

TWO KILLED IN THREE VEHICLE COLLISION IN PARAGOULD

Police say two Jonesboro residents were killed and two others were injured in a three vehicle crash in Paragould.

A police report says 28 year old Jennifer Macias and 28 year old Matthew Middleton died in the crash on US 49 in south Paragould about 5:30 pm Saturday.

The report says Macias and Middleton were passengers in a southbound vehicle that collided head-on with a north bound vehicle that was in a turn lane. The drivers of both vehicles were also injured and are hospitalized in undisclosed condition.

The driver of the third vehicle involved in the crash was not injured.

AUTHORITIES LOOK FOR CAUSE OF FATAL CRASH IN SIKESTON

Investigators in Sikeston are looking for the cause of a weekend crash that killed an area man.

According to Captain J. McMillen with the Sikeston DPS, 37 year old Jason Allen Holt, of Miner, was fatally injured in the accident shortly after 9 am Sunday.

Witnesses told officers that the truck being driven by Holt was traveling west on Malone at a high rate of speed, when it ran off the road, northwest of the intersection of Malone and Kingshighway.  The truck began rolling and collided with a trash dumpster.  Holt was ejected from the vehicle.  He was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Family members of Holt told investigators that he had a history of seizures, which he had been controlling with medication.  Captain McMillen says there is a high likelihood that a seizure contributed to the accident.

MOREHOUSE MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Morehouse man is facing multiple drug related charges after his arrest by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

According to the Patrol, 54 year old Lonnie D. Cochran was taken into custody on a felony warrant out of New Madrid County for dangerous drugs.  Cochran was also charged with two new counts of possession of a controlled substance, Xanax; possession of a controlled substance, Valium; possession of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Cochran was arrested shortly before 4:30 pm Friday in New Madrid County.

SIKESTON MAN CHARGED AFTER LEAVING SCENE OF ACCIDENT

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a Sikeston man, who left the scene of an accident Friday, is facing multiple charges.

46 year old Bryan B. Branion has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, resisting arrest, driving while intoxicated and driving while revoked.

They say Branion was taken into custody Friday at 5 pm in Scott County.

SEMO: FORMER ASSISTANT COACH FLOUTED NCAA RULES

A report from Southeast Missouri State University says a women's basketball assistant coach knowingly broke NCAA rules when he provided recruits with free gifts at a team camp.

The Southeast Missourian reported that the document also said the coach provided access to a Netflix account and made impermissible contact with recruits on three occasions.

The report was provided in response to a public records request filed by the newspaper. It provided greater detail about violations still under investigation by the NCAA and outlined previously undisclosed self-imposed penalties.

University president Dr. Kenneth W. Dobbins said the assistant who committed the violations was placed on administrative leave and later resigned. The assistant coach isn't mentioned by name in the report.

ROUTE A IN WAYNE COUNTY REDUCED FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

A portion of Route A in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The affected section of roadway is the bridge over Small Creek, between County Road 371 and US 67.

Work is scheduled to be performed Monday through Wednesday from 7:30 am to 4 pm each day.

MISSOURI BILL WOULD BAN AID FOR IMMIGRANT STUDENTS

A Republican lawmaker is trying to stop the Missouri Department of Higher Education from extending eligibility for a scholarship program to qualifying high school graduates who are in the country illegally.

State Representative Scott Fitzpatrick of Shell Knob this week filed a bill to block a proposed expansion of the A+ scholarship to those immigrants.

Students who participate in community service and meet other requirements can apply for two free years at a community college through A+.

The Department of Higher Education is in the process of adopting a rule to expand the program to some immigrants.

Those spared deportation through the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program would be able to apply.

GOVERNOR CITES NEED FOR CAPITAL REPAIRS

Governor Jay Nixon is planning to tour the nooks and crannies of the Missouri Capitol to get a first-hand look at repairs that could be financed through a bonding plan.

The governor has invited legislators to join him on the tour Monday. It comes after Nixon has spent the past couple of weeks traveling to state universities to highlight repairs and renovations that could be financed with bonds.

Earlier this year, the Legislature passed a measure authorizing up to $600 million of bonds for repairs or renovations at state facilities and college campuses. But little has been done with that, because not many specific projects were included in a separate budget bill passed by lawmakers.

Nixon wants lawmakers to approve a bonding project list during the 2015 session.

MISSOURI ELK POPULATION GROWS, BUT NO HUNTS YET

Missouri's elk population is growing, but the state's conservation agency isn't quite ready to start issuing hunting permits for the herds.

The Jefferson City News-Tribune reports that the state has about 125 elk after reintroducing the animal to Missouri in 2010.

The Missouri Department of Conservation Department has said it would start issuing a handful of permits if the herd grows to about 200 elk. That target remains several years away based on current reproduction rates.

The number of permits could increase to about 30 annually if the herd grows as large as 400 to 500 elk.

Elk were common in Missouri before European settlement but had been eradicated from the state by the end of the Civil War.

HIGH RATES OF FLU AT TWO ARKANSAS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Arkansas health officials say high rates of influenza at two elementary schools indicates that a strain of flu not covered by this year's vaccine is circulating in the state.

Epidemiologist Dirk Haselow told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that both schools have a high rate of student and staff vaccinations, making it unusual to have a high rate of flu cases.

Haselow declined to identify the schools.

He said only the federal Centers for Disease Control can test for the strain and that nasal swabs taken from students and staff at the schools will be sent there.

The CDC said last week that 90 percent of flu viruses in the country are H3N2 and about 50 percent of those strains have drifted, or mutated, into a virus not included in this year's vaccine.

December 12, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121214  

HANNIBAL MAN ARRESTED FOR SCAMMING ELDERLY VICTIM

A Hannibal man is in custody in connection to an alleged scam involving an elderly victim.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 50 year old William Riley has been charged with attempted financial exploitation of the elderly.

Riley allegedly made contact with an elderly lady in Scott City at her home on December 1^st. Riley requested to inspect the lightning rods on her house after producing some type of certification papers.

The lady permitted the inspection and then was reportedly told by Riley that he had to make repairs which would cost $4,500.

An investigation revealed that Riley is allegedly part of a group of people known to travel throughout Missouri and adjoining states scamming elderly persons with lightning rod and paving schemes.

Riley and an associate were taken into custody Wednesday in Perry County.

BONNE TERRE MAN FOUND GUILTY ON DRUG AND GUN CHARGES

A southeast Missouri man has been convicted of federal drug trafficking charges, but his murder trial in the death of a tattoo artist is still pending.

The Daily Journal in Park Hills reports that 50 year old Melvin Scherrer, of Bonne Terre, was found guilty Wednesday in the federal case. In addition to drug trafficking, he was convicted of firearms violations. Sentencing is March 3^rd.

Scherrer is still awaiting trial in state court on first degree murder and four other felonies in connection with the death of 38 year old Samuel "Tick" Francis, of Cape Girardeau. Francis' body was found in July 2013 in a septic tank near Bonne Terre.

The state trial was on hold until the federal drug case was resolved.

CAPE GIRARDEAU POLICE WARNING OF PHONE SCAM

Authorities in Cape Girardeau are warning area residents to be on the lookout for a phone scam.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, a female or a male with a foreign accent claiming to be from the US government or from the IRS will either tell the potential victim that they owe money or that they have grant money to spend. They have been asking for personal and/or banking information.

The phone calls have numbers from the 202 area code which is Washington D.C. Area residents are encouraged to not give the callers any personal or bank information.

TWO EARTHQUAKES RECORDED THURSDAY MORNING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Two micro earthquakes were recorded early Thursday morning in Southeast Missouri according to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information.

The first was located 3 miles southeast of Caruthersville. The 1.6 magnitude quake occurred at 2:24 am.

Less than an hour later at 3:21 am, a 2.4 magnitude micro earthquake was recorded 7 miles north northeast of Blytheville, Arkansas.

FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLAR LOTTERY TICKET SOLD IN CHARLESTON

A $50,000 lottery ticket was recently sold in Charleston.

According to the Missouri Lottery, 27 year old Yaszmin Rodgers purchased the winning “5X Crossword” scratchers ticket for $3 at a Charleston gas station.

STAGE COMPANY PERFORMANCE OF IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE BEGINS TONIGHT

The Poplar Bluff community theatre The Stage Company will begin their performances of “It’s A Wonderful Life” tonight at the Rodgers Theatre.

Shows will be held on December 12^th, 13^th, 19^th, and 20^th beginning at 7:30 pm. The final performance is scheduled for December 21^st at 3 pm.

Tickets are available for $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased online at stageco.org.

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA CEREMONY PROGRAM TO BE HELD TOMORROW IN BLOOMFIELD

The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield will be participating in the annual Wreaths Across America program this weekend.

During the ceremony a wreath will be placed on every grave in the cemetery. Families and friends of those interred as well as the general public are invited to attend the event.

The program will start at 11 am on Saturday at the Committal Shelter Pavilion at the cemetery.

SHOULDER REPAIRS TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI AND NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in Scott and Cape Girardeau County will be reduced with a width restriction of 16 feet tonight as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone will be located between mile markers 91 and 93.

Weather permitting, work will be done from 6 pm tonight to 12 pm tomorrow.

SHOULDER REPAIRS TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI AND NEW MADRID COUNTY

Motorists in New Madrid and Mississippi County should be prepared for delays today on Highway 80.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Highway 80 in Mississippi and New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today between Route B and Route AA for shoulder repairs.

Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3 pm.

ARKANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL RELEASES DECORATING SAFETY TIPS

Attorney General Dustin McDaniel is urging people to make safety a priority as they decorate their homes for the holidays.

McDaniel has issued a consumer alert to help residents remain injury free as they string lights on rooftops and light festive candles.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that each year during November and December, more than 14,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms due to injuries related to holiday decorating. Many of those injuries are related to falls while hanging decorations, lacerations from ornaments, strained backs or burns from open-flame candles.

When stringing lights, McDaniel suggests consumers select lights that carry labels indicating they have been safety tested by independent laboratories.

McDaniel also suggests that lighted candles never be used on a Christmas tree.

December 11, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121114  

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE LOOKING FOR PERSON OF INTEREST IN RECENT THEFTS

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is looking for a person of interest in multiple thefts.

Captain David Sutton tells us that Austin Million is wanted for questioning in connection with the thefts of firearms from vehicles and the thefts of several all terrain vehicles from residences in the Poplar Bluff area.

Anyone who has information on Million’s whereabouts is asked to call the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

43 YEAR OLD MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO TEEN PREGNANCY

A 43 year old Trumann, Arkansas man has been arrested in connection to a teen pregnancy.

According to KAIT, Andrew Marion Long is facing a charge of fourth degree sexual assault. The victim, who was younger than 16 years old when the investigation began, told authorities that she had intercourse with Long.

TWO EAST PRAIRIE RESIDENTS FACING BURGLARY CHARGE

Two East Prairie residents are facing multiple charges, including burglary.

According to authorities, 28 year old Lance Simmerman and 19 year old Christina Ray have been arrested in connection to a burglary in Mississippi County.

They are each facing charges of first degree burglary, receiving stolen property, and stealing a motor vehicle. Simmerman has also been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED FOR FLEEING FROM POLICE

A Kennett man was taken into custody after attempting to flee from police.

According to the Kennett Police Department, an officer attempted to stop a vehicle Tuesday night on a traffic violation. The driver failed to stop and fled at a high rate of speed.

The officer began a pursuit which ended when the vehicle crashed into a curb and then hit a patrol car. Cedric K. Bell was arrested for resisting by fleeing, driving while intoxicated and numerous traffic violations.

MOBILE VET CENTER TO MAKE STOPS IN MARBLE HILL AND PILOT KNOB

The Kansas City Mobile Vet Center will be making multiple stops next week in Southeast Missouri.

One of the stops will be on December 17^th at United Methodist Church in Marble Hill from 8 am to 11 am. The center will also be at the Iron County Hospital in Pilot Knob on December 19^th from 8 am to 11 am.

VA’s 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.

MULTIPLE BRIDGE PROJECTS PLANED IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is currently planning multiple bridge projects to take place next year in Butler County.

The projects will involve replacing the existing bridges over Hart Ditch and a drainage ditch on Highway 158 near Route BB. The bridge over Long Slough Ditch will also be replaced with a culvert.

Construction of the new bridges is expected to begin in the summer of 2015 with work expected to be completed in approximately four months, weather permitting.

ARKANSAS ONE OF 18 STATES AWARDED PRESCHOOL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

Federal education officials say Arkansas has been awarded a nearly $15 million grant from the Preschool Development Grants program.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced the $14.9 million grant. Arkansas is one of 18 states awarded grants.

States receiving grants are to develop or expand high-quality preschool programs in regionally diverse communities from urban neighborhoods to small towns.

PROPOSAL WOULD GIVE PARENTS TIME OFF WORK TO ATTEND SCHOOL EVENTS

Missouri parents could be guaranteed time off work to attend a school event with their child if enough lawmakers support the proposal.

State Representative Karla May of St. Louis recently filed legislation that would allow parents and legal guardians to take off eight hours from work a year.

Parents could use that time to attend school events that overlap with work. They would first need to try planning any activities outside their work schedules.

Employers could deny the leave if it could cause unusual difficulty for the business.

Parents or guardians would get eight hours each academic year per child. Employers could limit that to three-hour increments and require proof from the school.

NEW BILL WOULD PROVIDE VOUCHERS FOR SENIORS FOR FRESH, LOCAL FOODS

Missouri seniors could be eating more fresh produce if a proposed bill gets lawmaker support.

Democratic state Representative Kim Gardner of St. Louis recently filed legislation to give seniors vouchers for farmers' markets. Under the measure, low-income seniors would receive vouchers for local markets or roadside stands in their county to buy fruit and vegetables.

The bill is intended to give seniors who are at least 60 years old greater access to fresh, local foods. The legislation also aims to increase demand for Missouri-grown produce and encourage more farmers' markets.

The bill requires the state to apply for a federal grant to fund the program.

December 10, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 121014  

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN FACING CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE

A Cape Girardeau man has been taken into custody on a child molestation charge.

According to the Southeast Missourian, 44 year old Joseph F. Crawford was recently arrested and is facing a charge of first degree child molestation.

An investigation was started following a call made to a child-abuse hotline.

CARUTHERSVILLE MALE ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY THREATENING TO KILL HIS GIRLFRIEND

A Caruthersville man is facing multiple charges after allegedly threatening to kill his girlfriend.

According to the Caruthersville Police Department, the victim told police that her 59 year old boyfriend pulled a knife and threatened to kill her during a verbal confrontation.

The suspect, whose name was not released, was arrested and is being held pending the filling of formal charges for armed criminal action and second degree domestic assault.

JONESBORO WOMAN ARRESTED FOR BATTERY INCIDENT

A Jonesboro woman has been arrested after police say she cut her exgirlfriend with a box cutter in a Kmart parking lot.

Twentyone year old Rokoiya Smith was being held at the Craighead County jail Tuesday morning on a domestic battery charge. Police arrested her Sunday after the other woman called 911.

The victim says she gave Smith a ride to work at the store. She says Smith became upset after the victim's cellphone rang and she wouldn't tell Smith who was calling.

Police say Smith stabbed the woman repeatedly with car keys to no affect before using the box cutter. They say Smith told the victim that stabbing her was worth the criminal charge.

It's unclear if the victim was hospitalized.

QULIN MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY WARRANT

A Qulin man was arrested Tuesday night in Butler County on a felony warrant.

According to the Highway Patrol, 60 year old Charles McClellan was taken into custody shortly after 10 pm on a felony Butler County warrant for unlawful possession of a firearm.

PARAGOULD POLICE WARNING OF PHONE SCAM

Authorities in Paragould are warning area residents to be on the lookout for a phone scam.

According to Paragould Police Department, a caller, who has been known to give the name of the CEO of Publisher's Clearinghouse, will advise the potential victim that they have won over a million dollars, in addition to a very expensive Mercedes automobile.

The victim is requested to go to their bank and open an account so that the money can be deposited into said account. They will request that the victim go to Walmart and get a money order and give them a phone number to call when they obtain it, and then do the transaction over the phone.

Police say to never give out bank account information, social security numbers, dates of birth, or any other information that could compromise your accounts or your identity. Companies such as Publisher's Clearinghouse will not contact you by phone and request personal information, and certainly not ask for account numbers for bank accounts.

TWO ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED MEDICAID FRAUD

Two people in Northeast Arkansas were recently arrested in separate fraud cases.

According to Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, 26 year old Jonathan Chandler, of Blytheville, was arrested Monday for Medicaid Fraud, for fraudulently billing Medicaid for reimbursement for attendant care services he didn’t provide.

In a separate case, 50 year old Martha Renshaw, of Lake City, was also arrested Monday for Medicaid Fraud. Renshaw is accused of billing the Arkansas Medicaid Program over $4000 for in-home services that she did not provide.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Carter County this morning for a Mobile Office.

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 meeting is scheduled to run from 10:30 to 11:30 this morning at the Carter County Courthouse in Van Buren.

PORTION OF NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK

A portion of a New Madrid County road is closed this week due to a pipe replacement.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route W in New Madrid County will be closed between Route D and Route 62.

Weather Permitting, work is scheduled to be done daily from 8 am to 3:30 pm through Friday.

PROPOSED BILL WOULD MANDATE CHILD SAFE PACKAGING FOR ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

Electronic cigarettes would have to be wrapped in child-safe packaging under a bill proposed by a Missouri House member.

State Representative Sheila Solon of Blue Springs recently filed legislation requiring stricter packaging for vapor products. Electronic cigarettes heat liquid nicotine into an inhalable vapor, and some is flavored to taste like candy.

Lawmakers last session approved a bill to ban sales of electronic cigarettes and other alternative nicotine products to minors. But the bill faced opposition from Governor Jay Nixon, who vetoed it because of concerns that it also prevented the products from being taxed or regulated as tobacco.

Lawmakers later overrode the veto.

Federal officials have suggested a similar ban nationwide, with experts saying nicotine is especially dangerous for children.

LAWMAKER PROPOSES WORK LEAVE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS

A Missouri lawmaker is proposing some victims of domestic violence get two weeks of unpaid leave from work.

Democratic state Senator Gina Walsh of St. Louis recently filed legislation that would require employers give their workers time to cope with abuse. Employees would qualify if they or a family member experienced any of a number of forms of domestic violence.

They would need to notify their boss two days in advance of time off.

The bill aims to give survivors of domestic violence time to seek counseling, medical attention or legal help.

Workers at companies with 50 or more employees would get two weeks off a year. Companies with more than 15 employees would allow one week off.

Employers could not discriminate against individuals who seek unpaid leave.

December 9, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 120914  

MAN SENTENCED FOR DEATH OF TWO CHILDREN IN METH RELATED FIRE

A 31 year old southeast Missouri man has been sentenced to life in prison for a meth related fire that killed two young children.

The state attorney general's office said that Joshua L. Maynard, of Centerville, was sentenced Monday in Cape Girardeau County Circuit Court. The case was moved there from Reynolds County, where the December 2012 fire destroyed a home in Bunker.

Investigators said several children were sleeping in the home while Maynard and two others were trying to manufacture methamphetamine.

The fire killed 3 month old James Piatt and 2 year old Floyd Belfield Jr.

A jury convicted Maynard in October of arson, attempting to make meth and two counts of second degree murder.

DEXTER MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON ON MURDER CHARGE

A Dexter man is facing life in prison on a murder charge.

Matthew Cook was charged with first degree murder for the 2013 shooting death of Sean Crow. Cook pleaded guilty to the charge on Monday.

Following the plea, Cook was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

LATE NIGHT PURSUIT LEADS TO THE ARREST OF A SIKESTON WOMAN

A Sikeston woman is facing multiple charges following a late night pursuit with officers.

50 year old Lana Carnell has been charged with driving while intoxicated, driving on a revoked license, and resisting arrest.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, an officer attempted to stop Carnell after observing her commit several traffic violations. Carnell allegedly failed to stop and accelerated, weaving dangerously in and out of traffic.

The deputy followed Carnell through Sikeston and into New Madrid County where she finally stopped. After a brief struggle, Carnell was taken into custody without further incident.

CHARLESTON MAN ARRESTED ON ROBBERY CHARGE

A Charleston man is facing multiple charges following a reported armed robbery at an area business.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, shortly before midnight Sunday night officers received a report of an armed robbery at the Flying J Travel Center.

41 year old Richard Ware was found later with items that connected him to the robbery. He was placed under arrest on charges of robbery and burglary.

CHARLESTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FIREARM CHARGE

A Charleston man has been found guilty of a firearm charge.

Following a one day trial, 34 year old Mario Evans was found guilty of the felony of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

In August of 2013, officers found a loaded .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol with the serial numbers removed, $1,260 in cash, and 45 grams of marijuana in the front seat of Evans’ car.

Evans had previously been convicted on a drug charge and was prohibited from possessing firearms. His sentencing was set for March 2^nd.

MAN ARRESTED ON OUTSTANDING FELONY WARRANT IN SCOTT COUNTY

An Arizona man has been taken into custody in Scott County on an outstanding felony warrant.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, an officer, driving a marked county patrol vehicle, was arriving at the home of another officer when he observed a blue 1996 Ford van with Arizona license plates drive into the front yard of the residence.

The officer made contact with the driver of the van, 68 year old James Crowell, of Kingman, Arizona. The officer was informed that Crowell has an outstanding felony warrant from 2003 out of Ripley County.

While searching Crowell’s vehicle, officers found a loaded gun in a holster attached inside the center console of the van. Walter says that Crowell is a convicted felon and is prohibited by law to possess the handgun.

He has been charged with felony unlawful possession of a firearm.

NEW DEXTER MEDICAL CENTER SET TO OPEN IN 2016

A new 45,000 square foot medical center is being planned in southeast Missouri.

Saint Francis Medical Partners says it is planning a 45,000-square-foot Dexter Health Campus, a $12 million project expected to open by January 2016. It will include cancer and heart specialists, an outpatient laboratory, outpatient physical therapy, primary and urgent care and a fitness center.

Until the project opens, Saint Francis physicians will work at a temporary facility, beginning in January.

The Dexter Daily Statesman reports it's the second major health facility opening in the town this year. In September, SoutheastHEALTH Center of Stoddard County completed the first of two phases with the opening of a $3 million medical office building expansion.

MICRO EARTHQUAKE REPORTED NEAR NEW MADRID

A micro earthquake was recorded Monday near New Madrid.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a 2.2 magnitude quake occurred at 3:20 pm Monday four miles north northwest of New Madrid.

The earthquake had a depth of 7.2 miles.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route 153 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane for part of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs.

The work zone will be located between the Tallapoosa City Limits and Route B.

Weather permitting; work will take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 3:30 pm daily.

MISSOURI’S 10TH EXECUTION OF THE YEAR SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

Missouri is preparing to execute Paul Goodwin for killing a neighbor woman with a hammer. It would be the state's 10th execution this year.

Goodwin is scheduled to die by injection at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday at the state prison in Bonne Terre. His attorney has filed court appeals and a clemency petition to Governor Jay Nixon, claiming Goodwin is mentally disabled.

Missouri's nine executions so far, tying the record set in 1999. Only Texas, with 10, has performed more executions this year.

Goodwin is 48. He sexually assaulted and killed Joan Crotts, a 63-year-old widow, in St. Louis County in 1998.

December 8, 2014

MISSOURI BILL WOULD SET DEADLINE TO FINISH BALLOTS  

A Missouri lawmaker wants to set deadlines for altering ballot measures in an effort to save the state money on reprinting costs.

Republican State Republican Will Kraus of Lee's Summit this week filed legislation to block changes to a ballot initiative or referendum eight weeks before an election, about two weeks earlier than the current general standard.

The bill follows thousands of dollars in reprinting expenses to local counties after a judge in September ruled to change wording for an early voting proposal.

A Secretary of State spokeswoman says early estimates put the cost statewide at about $705,000.

The state will reimburse counties for the cost.

Some county clerks say late changes also make it difficult to get ballots to military and overseas voters in time.

December 5, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 120514  

BUTLER COUNTY WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR STEALING FROM A CHURCH

A Butler County woman is facing charges for allegedly stealing from an area church.

According to authorities, 38 year old Elizabeth Hart took multiple items from Oak Hill General Baptist Church on Wednesday.

She reportedly stole thousands of dollars worth of sound equipment from the church.

WOMAN RECEIVES 37 YEAR SENTENCE FOR MURDER OF EGYPT MAN

A woman in Northeast Arkansas has been sentenced in connection to the murder of an Egypt man in January.

According to authorities, Elizabeth McKnatt was sentenced to 37 years in prison for the death of Silva Joe Fry, who had been stabbed multiple times in his home.

McKnatt reportedly pleaded guilty to the murder.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN FACING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY RELATED CHARGES

A Northeast Arkansas man was recently arrested after some people he had been staying with discovered child pornography on their computer.

According to Izard County Sheriff Tate Lawrence, 22 year old Anthony Padilla, of Mt. Pleasant has been charged with 22 counts of distributing, possession, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.

Padilla reportedly admitted to authorities to using a cellular phone to obtain child pornography.

FOUR FACING DRUG RELATED CHARGE AFTER BUST IN PUXICO

Four people are facing a drug related charge after authorities found illegal prescription medication and methamphetamine precursors at a Puxico residence.

According to the Daily Statesman, the four arrested where 66 year old Richard Benfield and 54 year old Anna Marshall of Puxico, along with 41 year old Christopher Edwards of Kennett and 41 year old Rebecca Edwards of Senath.

Benfield and Christopher Edwards are facing a charge of attempt to manufacture a controlled substance. Marshall and Rebecca Edwards have been charged with possession of a controlled substance.

RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE POSTPONED

The River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade has been postponed to next week.

Weather in the forecast for tonight has caused the rescheduling of the event in downtown Poplar Bluff. The parade will now begin at 7 pm on Thursday, December 11^th.

BOND ISSUANCE WILL INCLUDE NEARLY 12 MILLION DOLLARS FOR TRC AND SEMO

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is planning on working with legislators for a bond issuance which will include money for area colleges.

Nixon said Wednesday that the strategic, fiscally responsible bond issuance that will include nearly $12 million in repairs and renovations to facilities at Three Rivers College and Southeast Missouri State University.

TRC has identified over $1.9 million in projects that will help upgrade facilities including the Westover Classroom Building, Crisp Technology Center, the Tinnin Center, the Education Building and the Academic Resource Commons.

NEW PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR APPOINTED FOR REYNOLDS COUNTY

Governor Jay Nixon has appointed a new public administrator for Reynolds County.

Nixon announced Thursday that Robyn Gray, of Black, will be taking over the role following the resignation of Mallory Fox.

Gray has several years of experience providing in-home care for older and disabled Missourians through the Disabled Citizens Alliance and through Genesis Home Care. She also was a teacher at a daycare and preschool in Farmington.

OVER TWO MILLION DOLLARS SPENT TO BLOCK CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ON TEACHERS

Supporters of Missouri constitutional amendments spent millions of dollars for advertisements during an election cycle unusually devoid of high-profile campaigns for office.

Campaign finance reports due Thursday show more than $2.2 million was spent to block an amendment tying teacher evaluations to student performance.

The Missouri Club for Growth used most of the $1.6 million it spent on television advertisements to promote limiting governors' budget-balancing powers. The amendment passed. Lawmakers now can override a governor's decision to freeze or slow spending.

Republican Auditor Tom Schweich was the only statewide candidate up for re-election and he faced no Democratic opposition in November. He spent about $843,962 on his successful run and has $924,160 leftover for a future campaign. Schweich is widely expected to run for governor in 2016.

December 4, 2014

  RIVER RADIO NEWS 120414

TWO FACING MURDER CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Two people have been charged with murder in connection to the death of 49 year old James Hunt.

Hunt’s body was found partially burned under a vehicle on November 29^th near Marked Tree. According to KAIT, Hunt had also been shot.

Two Marked Tree residents, 48 year old Christopher Terrell and 40 year old Betty Grant have been taken into custody. They are both facing a charge of first degree murder.

CAPE GIRARDEAU POLICE LOOKING FOR MAN WHO TOOK WOMAN’S PURSE

Police in Cape Girardeau say a suspect is being sought for allegedly taking a woman’s purse Wednesday night.

The strong arm robbery reportedly occurred when a man approached the woman in a parking lot near Main Street and Independence at around 10 pm. He then fled with her purse.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Cape Girardeau Police Department.

TODAY IS THE FINAL DAY TO SEE MEDICARE CLAIM COUNSELOR AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Today is the final day to visit with a Medicare CLAIM counselor at the Poplar Bluff Public Library.

The session will be held this afternoon from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. The free service can help you compare the different Medicare options and plans available, check coverage availability and discover ways to lower your costs.

You can call and make an appointment at 573-300-6180 or just walk in during the session.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Bollinger County next week for a Mobile Office.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 9^th from 2 pm to 3 pm at the Bollinger County Courthouse in Marble Hill.

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.

FOREST SERVICE MAKES AMENDMENT TO HELP PROTECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

The Mark Twain National Forrest has made an amendment to a 2005 management plan in order to protect several threatened and possibly endangered species.

The measures are to help conserve and recover declining populations of the Ozark Hellbender along with Snuffbox, Spectaclecase and Sheepnose Mussel populations.

Those species are listed as endangered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Current Ozark Hellbender populations number approximately 1,100 in Missouri.

The amendment also is for the conservation and recovery of Running Buffalo Clover, and ensures persistence of Forest populations of various other Regional Forester-designated sensitive species.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE WANTS TO MAKE IT HARDER TO AMEND CONSTITUTION

A Missouri lawmaker is proposing to make it harder to amend the state constitution.

Republican Representative Elijah Haahr, of Springfield, wants to require a 60 percent vote - instead of a simple majority - to approve constitutional amendments at statewide elections.

Haahr has filed his proposal for lawmakers to consider during the 2015 session. If approved by the General Assembly, it would be referred to the 2016 ballot.

Haahr says he's proposing the higher standard because the Missouri Constitution is being amended with increasing frequency and has grown to well over 100 pages long.

Voters approved five constitutional amendments this year. But two of those amendments - creating a right to farm and limiting the governor's budget-cutting powers - didn't meet Haahr's proposed 60 percent threshold.

JUST OVER A THIRD OF REGISTERED VOTERS TOOK PART IN MISSOURI’S GENERAL ELECTION

The results are official for Missouri's general election, and there are no last moment surprises.

Secretary of State Jason Kander on Wednesday officially certified the results of the November 4^th election. Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich and all eight of Missouri's incumbent Congress members were easily re-elected, so there was no suspense over the final figures.

More than 1.4 million people cast ballots - about 35 percent of Missouri's registered voters.

The top attraction appeared to be Constitutional Amendment 3, which would have required teachers to be evaluated based largely on student performance. More people voted on that measure than on any other issue or race. The amendment was overwhelmingly defeated.

STATE LAWMAKERS ATTEMPTING TO APPEAL COURT RULING FOR SAME SEX MARRIAGES

Missouri's Republican legislative leaders are seeking to appeal a court ruling requiring officials to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states.

Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey and House Speaker Tim Jones have filed a motion asking to intervene in a Jackson County court case so they can appeal it to the state Supreme Court.

Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled in October that Missouri must legally recognize same-sex couples who got married elsewhere - even though Missouri has a constitutional amendment prohibiting gay marriage.

Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster decided not to appeal that case. But Koster is appealing separate federal and state court rulings striking down the gay marriage ban.

Dempsey said no taxpayer dollars are being spent on the legislators' court filings.

December 3, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 120314  

MAN DIES IN GRAIN BIN IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Bloomfield man is dead after an accident at a grain bin in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, 54 year old Kenneth Hurley was working in the bin when the accident occurred. The incident happened Tuesday afternoon at a grain bin located near Idalia.

CAPE POLICE SEEK SUSPECTS IN ARMED ROBBERY

Cape Girardeau Police are looking for three suspects in an armed robbery.

Authorities say the incident happened shortly before 8 pm Monday at a home on North Park.

The victim told investigators that he answered a knock at his door to find a black male with a gun and two white females. The three pushed their way into the home, at which time the male demanded money and struck the victim on the head. He told officers that the three then fled on foot with some prescription medicine and cash.

The male suspect is described as a tall thin black male wearing a jacket and sock hat. One of the women was reportedly wearing a white jacket.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 573-335-6621.

POLICE LOOKING FOR MISSING STEELE MAN

Police in Steele are searching for a man who was last seen on Sunday.

According to the Steele Police Department, 62 year old James Kinnon, of Steele, was reported missing by his family on Monday.

Kinnon’s vehicle was found by authorities in Crittenden County, Arkansas on Interstate 55 near Marion.

Kinnon is reported to have dementia, high blood pressure and drags his right leg when walking. He is described as a black male, five foot, 10 inches tall, and weighing 190 pounds.

Anyone with information on Kinnon’s whereabouts is asked to call Steele Police at 573 695 3411.

COUPLE ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

A couple was allegedly assaulted Sunday in Cape Girardeau.

According to KFVS, the couple was reportedly assaulted along the river front by four young women and a male suspect. The purse of one of the victims was also taken in the attack.

The incident is under investigation.

SCHOOL BUSES VANDALIZED IN PARAGOULD

Thirteen school buses were recently vandalized in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, some of the Paragould school buses had damaged camera wiring, while some had been sprayed with a fire extinguisher. One of the buses had multiple windows broken out, along with damage to the windshield.

There are no suspects identified for the vandalism.

SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55 TO BE REDUCED TODAY

Southbound Interstate 55 will be reduced to one lane today in Scott County for bridge repairs.

The repairs are scheduled to be done from 8 am to 3:30 pm today. The work zone will be in the area of the Interstate 57 overpass bridge.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route KK in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.

The work zone will be located between Route 114 and County Road 718.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

MISSOURI REVENUES UP IN NOVEMBER

Missouri's revenues are up more than 3 percent so far this fiscal year but the state's budget chief says that's not enough to pay for all of Missouri's expenses.

Revenue figures released Tuesday show individual income tax collections are up 5.5 percent and sales tax collections increased 2.6 percent from July through November.

When added to other revenue sources, Missouri's finances grew at 3.7 percent compared with the same period a year earlier.

State budget director Linda Luebbering said the state needs about 11 percent general revenue growth this year to pay for current budgeted expenses.

She says it's unlikely the 11 percent growth rate will be reached by the end of the year but 5 percent might be achievable.

SALES AND INCOME TAX COLLECTIONS UP IN ARKANSAS

Arkansas finance officials say a rise in sales and income tax collections last month pushed the state's revenue above last year's figures and expectations.

The Department of Finance and Administration on Tuesday said the state's net available revenue in November totaled $391.1 million, which was $41.4 million above the same month last year and $24.8 million above forecast.

The state's revenue for the fiscal year that began July 1 totaled $2.1 billion, which is $24.8 million above forecast.

The department said individual income tax collections totaled $227.1 million, which was $29.4 million above the same month last year and $12.2 million above forecast. Sales tax collections totaled $180.5 million, which was $5.3 million above the same month last year and $700,000 above forecast.

December 2, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 120214  

EAST PRAIRIE WOMAN KILLED IN CRASH LAST WEEK

An East Prairie woman is dead following a traffic crash last week in Mississippi County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 24 year old Deanna K. Davidson died when the vehicle she was driving ran off of Route B, south of County Road 415, struck a ditch, and overturned. Davidson was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the vehicle suffered minor injuries.

THREE ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY IN CONNECTION TO COPPER THEFT

Three people were taken into custody last week in connection to the theft of copper wire from a Butler County farm.

According to the Daily American Republic, 28 year old Nathan Wombles, of Fisk, 26 year old Zachary Hicks, of Dexter, and 23 year old Michelle Odle, of Poplar Bluff are facing charges of second degree property damage and first degree trespassing.

The three were arrested after an alarm system alerted the farm owner that copper wires were being cut Thursday evening. Wire cutters, bolt cutters, and wire clips were also found during a search of the suspect’s vehicle.

NEELYVILLE MAN ALLEGEDLY PULLS GUN DURING TRAFFIC STOP

A Neelyville man is in custody after he allegedly pulled a gun during a traffic stop.

According to Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield, during a traffic stop Saturday night, 26 year old Demario Hendrix exited his vehicle and became hostile towards officers. Hendrix then reached behind his back and officers observed him remove a handgun from his backside.

An officer was able to knock the gun from Hendrix’s hand and subdue him. Hendrix has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, resisting arrest and possession of controlled substance.

MAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY ATTACKING AND THREATENING A WOMAN

A Melbourne man is facing multiple charges in connection to the alleged attack of a woman on November 16^th.

According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, 32 year old Stephen Cagle is accused of kicking the door in at a residence and assaulting a female, along with grabbing a gun and threatening to kill her and a small child.

Cagle was arrested Friday on charges of breaking and entering, first degree terroristic threatening, endangering the welfare of a minor, criminal mischief, and third degree domestic battering.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER REPORTEDLY CHASING THREE WOMEN WITH A KNIFE

A Kennett man is facing charges following an incident involving a knife.

According to the Kennett Police Department, the incident occurred on November 30^th. Officers were dispatched in reference to a male subject armed with a knife chasing three females and attempting to stab them.

When officers arrived, they learned that the male subject, Shawn Utley, of Kennett, had fled the area. An article of clothing he had been seen wearing was found containing meth, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Utley was later taken into custody. He was arrested for second degree domestic assault, resisting arrest for a felony, unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING ALMOST FOUR HOUR STANDOFF

One man has been taken into custody following a standoff with police in Blytheville.

According to authorities, Bobby Chappell barricaded himself in a motel room for almost four hours before agreeing to come out. Chappell was reportedly wanted for aggravated robbery.

He is also facing charges including resisting arrest and possession of a firearm by certain persons.

15 DIE IN MISSOURI CAR CRASHES OVER THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WEEKEND

15 people were killed over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend during car crashes in Missouri.

According to the Highway Patrol, the deaths were from a total of 319 traffic crashes which also included109 people injured. This was an increase over the 2013 Thanksgiving holiday period, which had 299 traffic crashes and 11 fatalities.

HOLIDAY DWI CRACKDOWN CAMPAIGN TO BEGIN ON DECEMBER 12^TH

The Dexter Police Department will be participating in a nationwide Holiday DWI Crackdown campaign this month.

The crackdown, which will include high-visibility enforcement throughout Dexter, will run from December 12^th through January 1^st.

Dexter Police said its officers will be aggressively looking for drunk drivers during the crackdown and will arrest anyone caught driving substance-impaired.

LAWMAKERS PROPOSE POLICE CAMERAS BILL

Two Democratic Missouri lawmakers who represent Ferguson are proposing that police wear cameras and undergo diversity training.

State Representative Sharon Pace and Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal proposed bills Monday after a week of sometimes violent protests over a grand jury's decision not to indict a white officer who fatally shot a black 18-year-old.

Both lawmakers want police to wear video cameras to record interactions with the public.

Chappelle-Nadal protested in Ferguson after the shooting. An early draft of her bill would ban police from verbally abusing protesters, require a special prosecutor to investigate police shootings and restrict the use of tear gas.

Pace wants required diversity and peaceful protest training for police, as well as psychological evaluations for officers every three years.

GOVERNOR NIXON REVERSES CUT ON PAYMENTS TO BLIND RESIDENTS

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has reversed plans to cut the amount of money paid by the state to blind residents.

Nixon said he ordered the Department of Social Services on Monday to drop plans to reduce the benefits paid under the blind pension program.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported earlier Monday that the department had told all 3,847 people receiving checks through the program to expect a $33-a-month reduction beginning in January.

The department had said the cuts were necessary because payments were exceeding the property tax revenues collected by the fund.

Nixon said he would instead ask the Legislature to approve a supplemental budget appropriation for the program when it convenes in January.

December 1, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 120114  

SEARCH WARRANT AT POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENCE LEADS TO ARREST OF SIX

A search of a Poplar Bluff residence has led to the arrest of six people.

According to Captain David Sutton with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, a narcotics search warrant was executed by Poplar Bluff officers and the SEMO Drug Task Force last week at a home on Lester Street.

29 year old Mark Hicks Jr., of Poplar Bluff, 49 year old Michael Schalk, of Poplar; and 36 year old Jason Webb, of Raymore were arrested on a charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

30 year old Matthew Holmes, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia, felon in possession of a firearm; and receiving stolen property.

24 year old Meghan Turner, of Poplar Bluff, faces charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

And 32 year old Todd Aikey, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody on an outstanding Butler County warrant for illegally taking wildlife.

SIKESTON FATAL SHOOTING SUSPECT TURNS HIMSELF IN TO POLICE

A man who was a suspect in a fatal shooting over the weekend has turned himself into authorities in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Craig “Pico” Marks has been charged with first degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon.

The arrest stems from an early Sunday morning shooting incident.  Police received a call at around 3:15 am that someone had been shot.  Upon arrival, officers found 22 year old Tyrell Banks, of Haywood City, Missouri with a gunshot wound to the chest.  He died later in the day.

An investigation revealed the shooting had taken place at a home on Lanning Street.  Investigators found eight bullet holes in the home.

Witnesses told police that Banks and Marks had been in an ongoing dispute.

HOME EXPLOSION KILLS TWO IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A third home explosion in recent months in Northeast Arkansas has killed two people.

According to authorities, the incident happened Saturday afternoon in Monette.  In addition to the two deaths, three people were injured.

Craighead County Sheriff Marty Boyd says at this time, investigators have no reason to believe any criminal activity was involved.

A cause of the explosion is under investigation.

FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED IN CASE OF BODY FOUND NEAR MARKED TREE

An investigation is ongoing in regards to a body found near Marked Tree, Arkansas.

According to the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Department, a call was received Saturday evening about a vehicle on fire.  Upon arrival on the scene, officers discovered a body.

Sheriff Larry Mills says it is unclear at this point if the body is that of a man or a woman.

He says foul play is suspected.

Authorities are looking for more than one suspect in the case, however he was unable to release their names at this time.

SHOOTING AT LILBOURN CLUB LEAVES SEVERAL INJURED

A shooting at a Lilbourn nightclub has left several people with injuries.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, the shooting happened Saturday at around 1:30 am at Da Hole.  Six people were injured.

There are no suspects at this time.

In addition to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, New Madrid Police Department, Gideon Police Department and the Sikeston Department of Public Safety are investigating.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the New Madrid Co. Sheriff's Office at 573-748-2516 or the MO State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500.

CHARLESTON AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATE SHOOTING THAT LEAVES FOUR INJURED

Police in Charleston are investigating a weekend shooting incident in which four people were injured.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, officers responded to a call on Vine Street Saturday shortly before 10:20 pm.  Shortly after that, officers received a call that there was a gunshot victim at a cemetery.

The investigation revealed that four people: a 25 year old, a 20 year old and a 16 year old, all from Charleston; as well as a 22 year old from Bertrand had been injured.

NORTHEAST ARKASAS MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORN CHARGES

A Mississippi County, Arkansas man has been arrested on child porn charges.

Authorities say 22 year old Kenneth Ethan Tyler Lafkin, of Keiser, is facing 30 counts of distributing, possessing or viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.

Investigators executed a search warrant at Lafkin’s home last month, where they seized a desktop computer, two laptop computers and other electronic devices.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER ASSAULT AT ORAN LIBRARY

Two people have been arrested after an incident at the Oran Library.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 22 year old Thomas J. Sheppard III, of Cape Girardeau, and 26 year old Sarah B. Cook, of Sikeston, have each been charged with assault.  Sheppard also faces a charge of misdemeanor property damage.

Sheriff Walter says the charges stem from an incident Friday morning.  A deputy responded to a call from a man who said he had been attacked by Sheppard and Cook.  The victim said he had gotten into a verbal altercation with the two over some posts on Facebook.  He told the deputy that Sheppard hit and kicked him, and that when he was down on the ground, Cook stomped on his head.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED FOR LEADING POLICE ON CHASE IN STOLEN CAR

A Kennett man has been arrested after leading police on a chase in a stolen car Saturday.

Authorities say 23 year old Joshua Burleson, of Marmaduke, Arkansas was taken into custody shortly after 5 am.

According to the Kennett Police Department, an officer attempted to stop a vehicle being driven by Burleson.  The car had been identified as stolen from Jonesboro.  Burleson refused to stop and led officers on a chase that eventually ended when he crashed into a cotton field, north of Highway 153.

ROUTE 49 IN WAYNE COUNTY REDUCED FOR TREE TRIMMING

A portion of Route 49 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform tree trimming.

This affected section of roadway is located from Route A to Mill Springs.

Work is scheduled to be performed today through Friday, from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm each day.

NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55 IN SCOTT COUNTY REDUCED FOR GUARDRAIL REPAIRS

A portion of Northbound I-55 in Scott County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform guardrail repairs today and tomorrow.  Work is scheduled to be performed from 8 am to 3 pm each day.

This bridge is located one mile North of Route 60.

NOVEMBER DEER HARVEST UP FROM LAST YEAR

Hunters checked over 160,000 deer during the 11-day November portion of Missouri’s firearms deer season.

Building on a strong opening weekend harvest, Missouri hunters went on to check a total of 167,205 deer during firearms deer season November 15 through 25.  The number exceeds last year’s harvest of 157,273.

The Missouri Department of Conservation reports the top harvest counties were Howell with 3, 418 deer checked; Franklin with 3,338; and Texas with 3,170.

This year’s harvest is 6 percent higher than last year’s figure.

November 26, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 112614  

TWO POPLAR BLUFF MEN CHARGED WITH SECOND DEGREE MURDER

Two Poplar Bluff men are facing a murder charge in connection to the death of Salvador Ruiz Ramirez.

According to the Daily American Republic, 29 year old Curtis Walker and 24 year old Bryce Davis have been charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action.

Ramirez was found dead on October 22^nd submerged in the Black River. An autopsy showed he had died from a gunshot wound.

AUTOPSY SHOWS NO SIGNS OF FOUL PLAY ON BODY FOUND IN CARTER COUNTY

No signs of foul play were found during the autopsy of a woman’s body which was found over the weekend in Southeast Missouri.

The partially decomposed body of the woman was found on Sunday by a hunter in Carter County. The identity of the woman has not been made available.

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGES

A Sikeston area man has been arrested on a warrant for drug trafficking.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 25 year old Matthew Dwight Simms was taken into custody Monday on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Walter says the arrest stems from an October suspicious vehicle investigation, in which officers found multiple packets containing 35 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana and paraphernalia in an abandoned vehicle. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Simms was driving the vehicle when it was abandoned.

Sheriff Walter says his department received a call early Monday morning informing them that Simms could be found at a rural home. Officers arrested Simms at the location. A search of Simms’ backpack yielded an additional 17 grams of meth, as well as additional paraphernalia.

GUILTY PLEA ENTERED IN ASSAULT CASE

A Jackson man will be sentenced in February on assault charges.

48 year old Lawrence Guthrie entered a guilty plea Monday to three counts of assault on a law enforcement officer. Guthrie reportedly shot at officers during an incident in 2012.

Guthrie is scheduled to be sentenced on February 17^th, 2015.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN GREENVILLE

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

The event will be held from 3 pm to 4 pm on Tuesday, December 2^nd at the Wayne County Courthouse. 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.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO PRESENT CONCERT FEATURING WORKS OF STAR WARS AND JURASSIC PARK COMPOSER

The Three Rivers College Music Department will be holding a free concert next week featuring many famous songs from movies.

The concert will feature the works of famed composer John Williams, including music from Star Wars, Jurassic Park, the Harry Potter films, Schindler’s List, and more.

The Three Rivers Collegiate Choir and the Three Rivers Symphonic Band will perform during the concert at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. The concert will begin at 7 pm on Tuesday, December 2^nd.

HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDS MOTORISTS TO DRIVE SAFE OVER THE HOLIDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to drive safely over the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Colonel Ron Replogle says all available officers will be assigned to Missouri’s roadways to enforce traffic laws, especially those related to drunk driving, speeding, and seat belt/child restraint use.

Troopers will also be placed at 20 mile intervals along interstate highways throughout the state as well as on U.S. Highways 60 and 61 for today and Sunday.

Last year 11 people were killed and another 455 were injured in 1,195 traffic crashes over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

If you have an emergency, the Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number is 1-800-525-5555, or (star)*55 on a cellular phone. Motorists should use this emergency assistance number to report traffic crashes, crimes being committed, or other emergencies on Missouri’s highways.

REPRESENTATIVE WANTS SCHOOL TESTS TO BE MADE IN MISSOURI

A lawmaker is drafting legislation to require Missouri universities create statewide tests for school children.

State Representative David Wood on Tuesday said creating new tests in the state will help prevent teachers from instructing children based on Common Core standards.

Those standards outline goals for student learning in each grade, such as when to learn division. They were adopted to create consistent, high-quality standards for education nationwide, but some Missouri lawmakers say they take control of education away from the state.

Work groups are reviewing those standards and could recommend that the state Board of Education nix them in October.

Wood says drafting standardized tests in Missouri would prevent educators from teaching current standards in order to get students to pass a test aligned with Common Core.

COMMENTS BEING ACCEPTED FOR PETITION THAT WOULD REDUCE JAIL TIME FOR SOME DRUG OFFENDERS

A proposal to reduce time in jail for nonviolent Missouri drug offenders is open for comments.

The initiative posted this month at sos.mo.gov would change state law to allow parole and probation for certain nonviolent offenders.

The measure would set the minimum prison term for a second-time, nonviolent offender at 40 percent of their sentence.

That would ramp up to 50 percent for offenders convicted twice before and to 70 percent for those with three or more felony convictions.

A petition must receive approval from the secretary of state and attorney general and get a financial estimate before it can be circulated for signatures.

Supporters would have until May 2016 to collect roughly 165,000 registered voters' signatures needed for the November 2016 ballot.

FEDERAL JUDGE STRIKES DOWN GAY MARRIAGE BAN IN ARKANSAS

A federal judge has struck down Arkansas' gay marriage ban, which could eventually pave the way for county clerks to resume issuing licenses.

U.S. District Judge Kristine Baker ruled Tuesday in favor of a pair of same-sex couples who had challenged the 2004 constitutional amendment and an earlier state law defining marriage as between a man and a woman.

But Baker put her ruling on hold, anticipating an appeal.

A spokesman for Attorney General Dustin McDaniel says he is reviewing the ruling. He says a decision will be made after the Thanksgiving holiday and in consultation with Republican Attorney General-elect Leslie Rutledge.

The ruling comes as the state Supreme Court is weighing a separate case, which stems from May, when a Pulaski County judge struck down the ban.

November 25, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 112514  

NEELYVILLE MAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION

A Neelyville man has died in a two vehicle wreck Monday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 44 year old Douglas Bowman was driving in the middle of Osborne Road in Randolph County when he hit another vehicle head on. Bowman was pronounced dead at the scene.

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

WOMAN’S BODY FOUND IN CARTER COUNTY

An investigation is underway in Carter County after a hunter discovered the decomposed body of a woman over the weekend.

According to authorities, the body has not yet been identified and a cause of death has not been determined. An autopsy has been set for today.

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

HON TO STEP DOWN AS POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT

Chris Hon has announced that he will step down as superintendent of the Poplar Bluff School District in 2016.

Hon will serve out the length of his contract which is set to end on June 30^th, 2016. He told the board of education about the decision last week.

Hon was chosen to take over the superintendent’s office in 2010.

THREE RIVERS TO HOLD MASS CASUALTY TRAINING

Three Rivers College will hold its annual mass casualty training event today.

The training will help prepare students in participating programs to be prepared for a mass casualty emergency, such as a natural disaster or terrorist attack.

Students from several fields of study will participate in the training, including nursing students, EMT and Paramedic students.

In keeping with the training’s focus on realism, the students themselves will coordinate much of the event, with students serving in leadership and command/control positions as they would in a real disaster.

The college is keeping the type of “disaster” under wraps, so that students have no chance to prepare beforehand.

During the event, the Herschel Bess Boulevard entrance to the college from Highway PP will be closed. The Main Entrance from Shelby Road, and the Westwood Boulevard entrance will remain open.

DATES SET FOR 2015 AG EXPO

The dates have been set for the 29^th Ag Expo in Poplar Bluff.

The 2015 Ag Expo will be held on January 30^th and 31^st at the Black River Coliseum. Phyllis Flanigan with the University of Missouri Extension says there will be 118 booths available to visit and booth spaces are now available to rent.

Ten thousand people attended last year’s expo. For more information, to purchase booth space, or register for the beauty pageant, call 686-8064.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE’S EVENING ADVANTAGE PROGRAM OPEN FOR REGISTRATION

Registration has started for the Evening Advantage program at Three Rivers College.

Evening Advantage classes are taken in eight-week blocks. Students can take classes on Monday and/or Thursday nights, and have a choice of six classes per block. Students can also vary their schedules between 8-week blocks to accommodate changing needs.

For more information on the Evening Advantage program, call 573-772-7104

SMALL EARTHQUAKE HITS NEW MADRID

A small earthquake was measured near New Madrid Monday morning.

Officials with the United States Geological Survey say the 2.2 earthquake hit at around 7:30 am about five miles southeast of New Madrid and about 25 miles southeast of Sikeston.

LAWMAKER TO PUT FORTH BILL FOR PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION DATABASE

A Missouri lawmaker is continuing to push for a prescription medication database despite several previous failed attempts.

State Rep. Holly Rehder said Monday that she will refile the same legislation that died in the Senate last session. The Sikeston Republican says next year might be different because of heightened awareness of prescription pill abuse.

The bill aims to curb the flow of painkillers and other medications to abusers by tracking whether other pharmacies have already filled prescriptions.

Rehder says the bill could have helped her daughter's struggle with pill abuse. She says her daughter bought pain pills from "doctor shoppers" who refill the same prescription at multiple pharmacies.

The bill has passed in the House but failed in the Senate in part because of concerns about database security.

November 24, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 112414  

ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED IN WRECK NEAR ARCADIA

A single vehicle crash near Arcadia Friday night has led to the death of an area teen.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 16 year old Thatcher Carr, of Arcadia, died from injuries he received when the vehicle he was riding in ran off of a roadway, hit a fence, and overturned. Three other passengers in the vehicle were injured.

According to the crash report, neither Carr, nor the three injured passengers, were wearing a safety device. No injury was listed for the driver of the vehicle, who was wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.

JACKSON MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Jackson man is dead following a single vehicle wreck in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 27 year old Joshua Smith’s vehicle swerved off the left side of Highway 177, became airborne, and rolled multiple times Friday morning.

Smith was reportedly not wearing a safety device and was ejected from the vehicle. He was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION LEADS TO TWO ARRESTS IN SCOTT COUNTY

A narcotics investigation in Scott County has resulted in the arrest of two people.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, deputies found methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia during the execution of a search warrant in Sikeston on November 21^st.

59 year old James Woods and 33 year old Alesha Gonzalez were taken into custody. Woods is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

MAN TASED IN JONESBORO WHILE ALLEGEDLY TRYING TO EAT METH

A man was tased Friday in Jonesboro while he was allegedly trying to eat a bag of methamphetamine during his arrest.

According to KAIT, officers tased 43 year old Lawrence Cannon, of Jonesboro, in order to pry his mouth open. Cannon had been resisting officers and had stuffed something inside his mouth and would not spit it out. After being tased, a bag of meth fell from his mouth.

Cannon was taken into custody on charges of possession of methamphetamine, resisting arrest, and tampering with physical evidence.

FREDERICKTOWN MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

A Fredericktown man is facing a felony charge following his arrest Sunday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Jimmy Hicks was arrested in Madison County on a charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

The Highway Patrol did not specify what the controlled substance was.

ARRESTED MAN CLAIMS HE IS HIS BROTHER IN AN ATTEMPT TO GET OUT OF JAIL

A Sikeston area man is facing a forgery charge after he allegedly claimed he was his brother.

According to authorities, 28 year old Kyle Nathan Irvin, was in custody on November 16^th and while being booked he identified himself as his brother, Andrew Irvin.

When confronted, Irvin admitted he had used his brother’s name in an attempt to get out of jail.

WOMAN REPORTEDLY CAUGHT ON VIDEO STEALING RINGS FROM AREA BUSINESS

An Oran woman has allegedly been caught on video stealing jewelry from an area business.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, a store surveillance video showed 44 year old Kelley Prochak stealing multiple rings from a counter near a register at a business near Benton.

Prochak was later arrested on a felony charge of stealing.

INTERSTATE 55 TO BE REDUCED EARLY THIS WEEK IN SCOTT COUNTY

Those looking to get an early start on their Thanksgiving travel might see some delays in Scott County.

Southbound I-55 in Scott County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform guardrail repairs.

Weather permitting; work will be performed today and tomorrow, from 8 am to 3 pm daily.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TODAY

A pipe replacement will cause the temporary closure of a Pemiscot County road today.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route J in Pemiscot County will be closed today between Reed Street and Cleveland Street. Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 3 pm, weather permitting.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS PLAN NEXT ATTEMPT AT AGRICULTURE BILL

Missouri lawmakers say they're reviving a failed agricultural bill that could help dairy, cattle and crop farmers.

Governor Jay Nixon vetoed the bill last session, citing concerns with a provision shifting oversight of captive-deer farms from the Department of Conservation to the Department of Agriculture.

The bill fell one vote short of the two-thirds needed to override Nixon's veto.

Legislators plan to remove the deer provisions from a new version of the bill next session. Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey says the bill should pass quickly.

Other measures in the legislation include a state-funded insurance subsidy for dairy farmers, scholarships for students pursuing agricultural degrees and an exemption for weight limits on cattle trucks.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DOWN TO SIX PERCENT IN ARKANSAS

Arkansas' seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a percentage point last month, from 6.2 percent in September to 6 percent in October.

The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services reported Friday that Arkansas' civilian labor force gained 7,400 jobs. The agency's communications director, Becky Heflin, says that compared to October 2013, the number of employed Arkansans is up 3,300.

Seven major industry sectors added jobs, while three sectors declined and one remained stable. Jobs in government increased 3,100, and educational and health services added 1,900 jobs.

The agency says jobs in manufacturing rose 1,500 and that employment in professional and business services increased 1,000 jobs. Construction jobs declined by 1,200, a typical seasonal loss.

At 5.8 percent, the United States' jobless rate declined one-tenth of a percentage point in October.