June 9, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060914  

SATURDAY NIGHT SHOOTING IN KENNETT LEAVES ONE DEAD

A Saturday night shooting in Kennett has left one man dead and another facing murder charges.

According to authorities, 37 year old Jeremy J. Corcoran, of Kennett, has been charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action.

Corcoran is accused of fatally shooting 23 year old Andres Tijerina, of Kennett, several times with a 9 mm pistol.  The shooting occurred at around 8 pm on South Hopper Street.

Investigators say the case is ongoing.  Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department.

NINE YEAR OLD BOY ON BIKE DIES AFTER HITTING TRUCK

A nine year old boy who was visiting relatives in Campbell has died after he struck the side of a truck while riding a bicycle.

Aloysius Earl Siebert, of Circle City, Missouri was riding bikes with several other children Friday. Witnesses say Siebert was approaching the intersection of College Street and Gehring Avenue when he hit the side of a truck.

Siebert’s mother told KVFS that the bike had no brakes and the boy could not slow down.

Siebert was taken to an area hospital where he later died.

HORNERSVILLE MAN FACES SEX RELATED CHARGES

A Hornersville man is facing sex related charges.

According to authorities, Kenneth Ray Flanagan has been charged with first degree attempted statutory sodomy and attempted deviant sexual intercourse with a person under 14 years old.

An investigation by the Division of Child Protective Services led authorities to believe that Flanagan allegedly had sexual contact with a four year old girl between January and November of 2013.

A separate warrant was also issued for Flanagan.  In it he has been charged with second degree burglary and first degree felony property damage for incidents that allegedly happened on March 3.

AUTHORITIES SEEK THREE SUSPECTS IN HOME INVASION ARMED ROBBERY

Authorities in Kennett are looking for three people who allegedly robbed a woman and her children last week.

According to investigators, the incident happened Wednesday shortly before midnight.  Shaunta Jones told officers that three armed men had kicked in a door and entered her home.  Jones said one man was armed with a rifle and the other two had handguns.  The men reportedly tied Jones and one of her children up with zip ties and told Jones they wanted money and drugs.  During the incident, Jones was struck in the face with the butt of the rifle and one of her children was struck in the head with a handgun.

The suspects took an Xbox and a handgun.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department at 573-888-2424.

GOSNELL MAN FACES DRUG CHARGES AFTER WEEKEND ARREST

A Gosnell, Arkansas man is facing drug charges after his arrest early Saturday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Michael R. Crank was taken into custody shortly after 2:30 am Saturday.  Crank has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; felony possession of a controlled substance, Xanax; felony possession of drug paraphernalia; misdemeanor possession of marijuana; and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

SENATOR BLUNT’S STAFF HOSTS MOBILE OFFICE IN WAYNE COUNTY

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office on Wednesday, from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm at the Wayne County Courthouse in Greenville.

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.

To reach the Senator’s Office of Constituent Services, call 573-442-8151.

INTERSTATE 57 IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Southbound I-57 in Mississippi County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

This section of roadway is located from Exit 12 to Exit 10.

Weather permitting, work will begin Monday, June 9 from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm.

INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

North and southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced for the next few days as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The affected section of roadway northbound is located between the 9.6 MM and the 10 MM and southbound is located between the .04 MM and the 1.0 MM.

Work is scheduled to take place today through Wednesday, from 6:30 am to 5 pm daily.

June 6, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060614  

MISSING WOMAN FOUND DEAD IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

The Independence County Sheriff's Office says a missing Batesville woman has been found dead near Malvern and her death is being investigated as a homicide.

Sheriff Steve Jeffery says the body of 64-year-old Linda Jo Stingley was found Wednesday in a wooded area near Malvern - about 140 miles southeast of Batesville.

Jeffery says Stingley was last seen about 9 pm Monday as she was leaving work at an assisted living center in Batesville.

Stingley's body was sent to the state crime lab to determine the exact cause of death.

STORMS RESULT IN TWO ARKANSAS DEATHS

Two people are dead following the storms that passed through Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, one person died after a tree fell on a van. A tree falling onto a home resulted in the death of an additional Jonesboro man.

The names of the two killed were not released.

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR THREE IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY

Authorities in Dunklin County are investigating a reported robbery at an area home.

According to authorities, three black males allegedly broke into a home on Wheeler Drive Wednesday night. The three reportedly had weapons. A woman and her two children were able to escape through a bedroom window.

The men took a game system and a gun from the home. Anyone with information related to the robbery is asked to call 573-888-2409.

MAN IN SERIOUS CONDITION FOLLOWING CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY SHOOTING

One man was injured Thursday night in a Cape Girardeau County shooting.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting was in the Cape Rock Village area. The man was shot multiple times by at least two people. The victim was taken to an area hospital and is listed in serious condition.

Witnesses told authorities that 2 persons believed to be black males left the area in a white or light colored SUV, and possibly another dark colored SUV, and headed towards Cape Girardeau.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office at 573-243-3551.

JONESBORO WOMAN FACES CHARGES FOR STABBING INMATE WITH HOMEMADE WEAPON

A Jonesboro woman who was in jail for failure to complete ordered public service is now facing assault charges after she allegedly stabbed a fellow inmate.

Authorities say 51 year old Linda Lenora Johnson was arrested yesterday morning after being accused of grinding a toothbrush into a shank and stabbing Laneshia Williams multiple times during a fight.

Williams received several injuries to her face, as well as a bite on her thumb.

Johnson has been charged with aggravated assault.

FORMER WIND TURBINE PLANT IN JONESBORO SOLD TO RAILCAR MAINTENANCE COMPANY

A railcar maintenance company is to locate in the former Nordex USA wind turbine plant in Jonesboro and pledges to hire up to 350 employees.

TrinityRail Maintenance Services Inc. announced Thursday that it would expand the facility to accommodate its planned scope of work.

TrinityRail is a subsidiary of Trinity Industries Inc. of Dallas.

The company provides an array of industrial products, including railcars, barges, storage containers and other transportation-related goods and services.

Governor Mike Beebe says TrinityRail's arrival shows the state has the right workforce and facilities to attract new companies that bring good-paying jobs.

American Railcar Industries Inc. operates a railcar manufacturing plant in nearby Marmaduke in northeast Arkansas.

ASU CAMPUS TO BE CLOSED TODAY DUE TO STORMS

The campus of Arkansas State University along with the Paragould campus, will be closed today due to yesterday’s storms.

A message on Arkansas State University’s website says the closure is to allow officials to continue to respond to the storm damage and to give employees time to manage their personal situations.

Online and web-assisted classes will continue as scheduled.

NEW LAW WOULD REQUIRE PARENTAL CONSENT FOR CHILDREN TO USE TANNING DEVICES

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has signed legislation requiring anyone younger than 17 to have written parental consent to use a booth, bed or other tanning device at a business.

The new law will require a parent or guardian to visit a tanning facility once a year and sign a consent form.

Businesses that let minors tan without parental consent could be fined $100 for a first violation, $250 for a second violation and $500 for each one after that.

Nixon said Thursday that early exposure to ultraviolet light increases the risk of skin cancer later in life.

More than 30 other states already restrict teen tanning. Missouri's law takes effect August 28^th but the requirements won't be enforced until the state develops a standard consent form.

June 5, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060514  

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH CAPE GIRARDEAU SHOOTING

One man is in custody in connection with an early morning shooting yesterday in Cape Girardeau.

According to Cape Girardeau Police Sergeant Jason Selzer, officers responded to a call about a shooting shortly after 5 am Wednesday. Upon arrival, officers found a male with a gunshot wound in his stomach. The victim was transferred to a local hospital for treatment of a serious injury.

A warrant was issued for 28 year old Tommy Joe Davis III, of Cape Girardeau, on felony charges of first degree assault and armed criminal action. Davis was taken into custody in Illinois.

CAPE GIRARDEAU POLICE INVESTIGATING SHOOTING INCIDENT

Police in Cape Girardeau are investigating a shooting incident Wednesday night.

According to authorities, no one was injured when a car was shot at least three times on Lacey. The driver of the vehicle reportedly did not cooperate and was taken into custody on an unrelated matter.

TWO FACING CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO STOLEN ATV

Two people are facing charges in connection to an alleged stolen ATV in Mississippi County.

According to authorities, 25 year old Jonathan R. Higgins and 24 year old Krystal D. Tatum, both of Sikeston, are each facing charges including stealing a motor vehicle and first degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

The ATV was badly damaged and discovered near Sikeston abandoned.

THREE IN RANDOLPH COUNTY FACE MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A multi-agency raid on a Ravenden Springs, Arkansas home has led to the arrest of three people.

Authorities say 60 year old Larry Lee Collins, 54 year old Patsy Case and 25 year old Brandon Gilbert are each facing charges for possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.

Collins and Case are each facing additional charges for manufacturing a controlled substance and Gilbert is charged with tampering with physical evidence.

LILBOURN MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Lilbourn man is facing a felony drug charge in connection to his arrest Wednesday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Bobby L. Reynolds was arrested in New Madrid County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

Reynolds is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

ALTERCATION LEADS TO THE ARREST OF THREE STUDENTS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A student allegedly pulled a steak knife during an altercation at a Northeast Arkansas school.

According to KAIT, the incident occurred at MacArthur Junior High School.

Three students were arrested following the incident, one on a charge of aggravated assault and the two others on a charge of terroristic threatening.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO START TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Westbound Highway 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane starting today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform routine bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located between Route F and Route WW.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Monday, June 9^th from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION CREWS TO BE IN STODDARD COUNTY FOR MAINTENANCE

A week long maintenance project is continuing today in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, crews will be reducing Eastbound Highway 60 to one lane for bridge maintenance between Highways 114 and 61 through Tuesday, June 10^th.

Work is set to be done from 7:30 am to 4 pm each day.

WALGREENS STORES IN MISSOURI TO BE SUBJECT TO RANDOM PRICE CHECKS OVER THREE YEARS

An independent auditor will perform random price checks at Walgreen Co. stores around Missouri for the next three years under a legal agreement the company has reached with the state.

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster announced Wednesday that Walgreen will pay for the audits and will be fined if the auditor finds discrepancies between advertised prices on Walgreen's merchandise and prices at the register.

Koster's announcement comes less than a year after Missouri filed a lawsuit in Jackson County court accusing the Chicago-based drugstore chain of overcharging customers and using deceptive pricing schemes. Walgreen has settled pricing practice lawsuits with California and Wisconsin.

Walgreen spokesman Jim Graham says the company is "pleased" to have reached an agreement that allows it "to continue to operate within our previously established business practices."

MISSOURI PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES MOVED BACK A MONTH TO MARCH

Missouri is moving its presidential primary back a month in an attempt to get in the good graces of the national Republican and Democratic parties.

Governor Jay Nixon signed legislation Wednesday that will set Missouri's 2016 presidential primary on March 15^th instead of February 2^nd.

The governor said the delayed primary should help Missouri comply with national party guidelines that could penalize states for holding primaries too early in the year.

Similar party guidelines led to a confusing situation for Missouri's 2012 presidential primary. The election was held in February.

But to avoid penalties from the national party, the state GOP decided to disregard the primary results and instead use a series of later caucus meetings to determine which candidates its delegates would support at the Republican National Convention.

June 4, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060414  

JONESBORO POLICE SEEK PUBLIC HELP IN IDENTIFYING ROBBERY SUSPECT

Police in Jonesboro are asking the public for help in identifying a suspect in a Sunday night robbery.

Authorities say a man, who claimed he was armed with a gun, robbed the Family Dollar store on Johnson.  Surveillance video shows the man, dressed in black clothes, black and white shoes and a Florida State baseball hat.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call Crimestoppers at 870-935-STOP.

TWO ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

Two men were taken into custody early this morning on a felony drug charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old James McCain, of Catron, and 20 year old Savon Jones, of Sikeston were arrested at 12:28 Wednesday morning in New Madrid County.

Each man is facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, hydrocodone.

MAN SENTENCED ON FIREARM CHARGES

A man has been sentenced in Northeast Arkansas on firearms charges.

According to KAIT, Jacob Brown has been sentenced to six years in prison. In March, Brown entered a guilty plea to charges of possession of a firearm by certain persons and possession of a defaced firearm.

Brown had allegedly pointed a gun at officers who were attempting to arrest him in November of 2013. An officer shot Brown in the incident, but the shooting was ruled justified.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO SEEK BIDS FOR NEW FIRE TRUCKS

The Poplar Bluff City Council approved a motion on Monday to seek bids for two new pumpers for the city fire department.

According to the Daily American Republic, Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Ralph Stucker says that the cost of the pumpers is estimated to be approximately $900,000, with $600,000 of that needing to be financed.

OVER 400 MISSOURI SCHOOL BUSES DEEMED TO NOT BE SAFE FOR STUDENTS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has completed their annual inspection of the state’s school buses.

Of the almost 12,000 buses inspected over 400 were deemed to not be safe for students. 405 buses were rated as out of service, which means the buses were found to have one or more defective items, which may compromise the safe transportation of students.

1,431 buses were rejected, which is described as having one or more defective items, but deemed to be safe for the transport of students. 10,161 buses were found to have no defective items.

TRC PRESIDENT NAMED AS CHAIRMAN OF MISSOURI COMMUNITY COLLEGE ASSOCIATION COUNCIL

The President of Three Rivers College, Dr. Devin Stephenson has been chosen to chair a council for a Missouri college advocacy organization.

Stephenson was chosen as the chairman of the Missouri Community College Association's Presidents/Chancellors Council. The chairman leads the Council and supports MCCA's mission of community college advocacy.

Stephenson’s one year term will begin in July.

ARKANSAS REVENUE DOWN COMPARED TO LAST YEAR

State finance officials say an expected drop in corporate income tax collections in May pushed Arkansas' revenue below predictions and below the same month last year.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration said Tuesday the state's net available revenue in May totaled $315.4 million. That's $18.8 million below last year and $24.7 million below forecast.

The state's revenue for the fiscal year that began July 1 is $52.9 million above forecast.

Most of the drop last month was due to a shift in corporate income tax collections, which were higher than expected and above last year's figures in April. The state also saw sales tax collections drop below expectations and below forecast last month

Individual income tax collections in May were above last year but below forecast.

STATE REVENUES NOT HIGH ENOUGH FOR REFUND

The Missouri auditor's office says state revenues are under a cap that triggers refunds to taxpayers.

A state constitutional provision, commonly known as the Hancock Amendment, triggers a refund after state revenues hit a certain cap. The auditor's office reported Monday that revenues for the budget year that ended last June 30, 2013, fell about $3.6 billion below that limit.

The last time Missouri's revenues exceeded the cap was for the budget year ending June 30, 1999. During the past five years, revenues have ranged from $2.7 billion to $4.4 billion under the revenue cap.

MISSOURI REVENUES UNDER PROJECTIONS

Missouri appears increasingly likely to finish its budget year with less revenue than had been expected.

The state budget office state Tuesday that Missouri's net general revenues are up just 0.2 percent through the first 11 months of its 2014 fiscal year.

The Legislature had projected 2 percent growth, and Governor Jay Nixon had forecast 2.8 percent growth for the year.

State sales tax revenues actually have increased by 2 percent over the previous year. But Missouri's individual income tax collections - which are the state's primary revenue source - are down 0.7 percent.

The 2014 fiscal year runs through June 30.

The sluggish revenues have led Department of Revenue to slow down the pace of issuing income tax refunds to thousands of Missouri taxpayers.

June 3, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060314  

INQUEST IN CASE OF FATAL BUTLER COUNTY SHOOTING POSTPONED

A coroner's inquest to look into a fatal shooting involving a Butler County deputy has been postponed.

The inquest into a shooting that occurred May 25^th was originally scheduled for Wednesday. Names of the man killed and the deputy have not been released. The man who died was from Harviell, Missouri, and the shooting occurred on his property.

Sheriff Mark Dobbs says the deputy was dispatched after a call about a possible trespasser or prowler, and someone shot at him. Dobbs says the deputy returned fire, killing the man.

The deputy remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the inquest.

FOUR DEAD IN GREENE COUNTY, ARKANSAS CRASH

Four Paragould residents were fatally injured Monday morning in a single vehicle crash in Greene County, Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred around 4:30 am Monday near Browns Chapel Baptist Church on County Road 765. Authorities say 20 year old Michael Martin lost control of his vehicle while cresting a hill, causing it to hit a tree and split into two pieces.

Martin, 20 year old Barry Weyer Jr., 19 year old Sarah Bean and 20 year old Nathan Swafford were all pronounced dead at the scene.

FIERY NORTHEAST ARKANSAS CRASH CLAIMS LIFE OF MAN

A fiery single vehicle crash in Northeast Arkansas has claimed the life of a 21 year old man.

According to authorities, the accident happened early Sunday morning when Blake Allen Morgan lost control of the vehicle he was driving and ran off of County Road 451 into a wooded area in Clay County. The vehicle caught fire on impact.

Authorities say witnesses attempted to rescue Morgan, but were unable to do so.

MAN ARRESTED ON ATTEMPTED RAPE CHARGE

A Sikeston man is facing an attempted rape charge in connection to an alleged incident last week.

According to authorities, Charles W. Bell has been charged with first degree attempted rape, unlawful possession of a firearm, first degree assault, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Bell is alleged to have assaulted a woman, as well as attempting to sexually assault her.

SUSPECT IN HOME INVASION AND ROBBERY TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

Authorities in Charleston have arrested a suspect in a May 17^th home invasion and robbery.

20 year old DeCarlos Clemons, of Charleston, is facing charges of first degree robbery, first degree burglary, armed criminal action, felonious restraint, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Clemons allegedly attempted to flee when he was approached by police on Sunday. He was taken into custody following a short chase.

GRANDIN MAN ARRESTED ON POSSESSION OF METH CHARGE

A Grandin man is facing a felony charge following his arrest on Sunday.

According to the Highway Patrol, 51 year old Douglas R. Wells is charged with felony possession of methamphetamine.

Wells was arrested shortly before 7 pm Sunday in Carter County.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff this week to meet with area citizens.

The meeting is a part of the Senator’s Mobile Office program, which gives Missourians the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The mobile office will be held on Thursday from 11 am to noon at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office on Maud Street.

HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE HELD IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI THIS MONTH

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced an operation to target vehicles that are not being used safely.

Captain George Ridens tells us that at some point in June, troopers in Southeast Missouri will be participating in a hazardous moving vehicle operation, as well as a DWI Saturation operation.

The hazardous moving operation is designed to target vehicles that are being operated in a hazardous manner. The driving while intoxicated saturation is a mobile operation in which troopers saturate a specific area in an effort to arrest intoxicated drivers.

The Highway Patrol will be conducting the operations in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

NEW SURVEY SUGGEST ECONOMIC GROWTH IN MIDWEST

A monthly economic index for nine Midwestern and Plains states has inched up to hit another three-year high, suggesting more economic growth over the next three to six months.

A report issued Monday says the overall Mid-America Business Conditions Index rose to 60.5 in May from 60.4 in April, which also was a three-year high.

Looking six months ahead, the business confidence portion of the overall index dropped to 62.5 from 64.2 in April.

The survey results from supply managers are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth, while a score below that suggests decline.

The survey covers nine states including Arkansas and Missouri.

GOVERNOR NIXON VOICES CONCERNS ON TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon says a proposed sales tax increase is "neither a fair nor a fiscally responsible" solution to pay for transportation needs.

State lawmakers approved a three-quarters-of-a-cent sales tax increase for transportation. It would require voter approval, and Nixon last month referred it to the August ballot. The ballot measure says the tax is projected to raise $534 million annually for 10 years starting in 2015.

On Monday, Nixon criticized the tax proposal and said it would fall disproportionately on working families and seniors. He contrasted it with other tax cuts passed by the 2014 Legislature, including several sales tax breaks that Nixon estimates could cost state and local governments $776 million.

TRANSPORTATION PROJECT LIST TO BE RELEASED ON JUNE 13^TH

State transportation officials plan to release a list of projects by June 13^th that could be funded if Missouri voters approve a sales tax increase.

The proposed three-quarter-cent sales tax for transportation is to appear on the August ballot. If approved, the tax is projected to generate about $534 million annually for the next 10 years.

The Missouri Department of Transportation says its project list will include roads and bridges as well as other modes of transportation.

There will be a weeklong public comment period until June 20^th. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is to vote on the final project list on June 26^th.

State lawmakers referred the transportation tax to the ballot. Governor Jay Nixon set it for the August election.

June 2, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060214  

MAN ARRESTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF STRONG ARM ROBBERY

Poplar Bluff Police have a man in custody following a report of a strong arm robbery on Thursday.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at around 6 pm Thursday officers received a report from a man who said his house guest had assaulted him and taken his wallet and debit card.

The suspect was later photographed using the stolen debit card at an area ATM. On Saturday, the suspect was seen by police walking along Business 60 and was arrested following a short foot pursuit.

The suspect, Jeremy Fineout, is facing charges of first degree robbery, armed criminal action, felonious restraint, fraudulent use of a credit device, and resisting arrest.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING WRECK NEAR JONESBORO

A high school volleyball coach has died after crashing her car into a water-filled ditch near Jonesboro.

The Craighead County Sheriff's Department says 38 year old Jennifer Jordan was found dead in her submerged car early Saturday. Jordan had been reported missing about 11 pm Friday after she failed to respond to phone calls and text messages.

Jonesboro police say family and friends contacted officers about 12:30 am Saturday after they found skid marks and a submerged vehicle in a ditch beside a county road.

The Craighead County dive team was called to recover the car and Jordan's body was found inside.

ARKANSAS TEENAGER DROWNS WHILE SWIMMING

Greene County authorities say a 17 year old boy has drowned while swimming in a small pond near Marmaduke.

Sheriff Dan Langston told KAIT that Trevor Potter was swimming with a friend in the pond Thursday night when he complained of chest pains. Langston says the friend tried to keep Potter afloat, but was unable to do so.

Langston says Potter was underwater for about 30 minutes before his body was recovered.

MAN IN CUSTODY FOR ASSAULTING A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

A Scott City man is in custody after he allegedly hit a police officer with his vehicle while fleeing a DWI checkpoint.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 27 year old Mikell D. Abraham has been charged with the assault on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, and driving while suspended.

The officer was treated at an area hospital and released.

MAN ARRESTED IN ILLINOIS IS SUSPECT IN RECENT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING

An Arkansas man arrested in Illinois is believed to be linked to a recent shooting.

According to KAIT, Jonesboro, Arkansas police issued a warrant Saturday for 27 year old Jose Juan Marquez in connection to a shooting Friday night. Later Saturday evening, Marquez was taken into custody following a traffic stop in Illinois.

The shooting victim is in stable condition.

TWO ARRESTED IN CARTER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Two people were taken into custody over the weekend on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Kenneth D. Grady, of Hayti, and 38 year old Faith H. Babcock, of Caruthersville, were arrested at around 1:30 pm Sunday in Carter County.

The men are each facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

OVER TWENTY ARRESTS MADE DURING TASK FORCE OPERATION

Over twenty arrests were made Friday night in Poplar Bluff as a part of a Street Crimes Task Force Operation.

The task force included officers from multiple agencies including the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Butler County Sheriff’s Department and several others.

According to the Daily American Republic, 23 arrests were made during the sweep.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County today to perform a pipe replacement.

Work is scheduled for 8 am to 3 pm, weather permitting. During the job Highway 53 will be reduced to one lane between Thomas Street and Lone Star Road.

EROSION WORK TO BE PERFORMED TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Highway 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform erosion work.

Weather permitting, work will performed today and tomorrow from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

The work zone will be located between County Roads 728 and 634.

REPAIRS ON HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK.

Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform approach repairs.

This section of roadway is located from Route J to County Road 163.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 6:30 am to 12 pm, daily.

MISSOURI FLAG BURNING LAW OVERTURNED BY FEDERAL COURT

A federal appeals court in St. Louis has overturned a Missouri law that makes it a crime to burn or otherwise desecrate the American flag.

Frank Snider III sued Cape Girardeau after his 2009 arrest for cutting up a U.S. flag on the sidewalk outside his home, throwing it in the street and trying to set it on fire.

Snider was jailed for eight hours, but prosecutors dismissed the charges after learning of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that deemed a similar law in Texas unconstitutional.

The Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday upheld a 2012 lower court ruling that the law violated the First Amendment's right to free speech. The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri represented the Cape Girardeau man.

PERSONAL INFORMATION COULD HAVE BEEN EXPOSED DURING ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY DATA BREACH

The Arkansas Department of Human Services has told Arkansas State University about a data breach in ASU's College of Education and Behavioral Science's Department of Childhood Services.

ASU said Friday that the breach could expose personally identifiable information. Chief Information Officer Henry Torres says there has been unauthorized access to the data - but no reports of illegal use of the information.

The database is related to the Traveling Arkansas Professional Pathways Registry. The registry is a professional development system that tracks more than 6,000 workshops each year to train childcare workers.

The program is not part of the main university databases, so no student, faculty or staff records are involved unless they have participated in the registry.

Officials say the registry has been taken offline until it is reviewed.

May 30, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 053014  

MAYNARD MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER

A Maynard, Arkansas man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly threatening to shoot his wife’s son.

According to authorities, John Arnold is facing multiple charges including first degree attempted murder, aggravated assault, third degree domestic battering, and terroristic threatening.

During the incident, Arnold is alleged to have hit his wife, grabbed her son by the neck and pointed a gun at both of them.

JONESBORO MAN FACING CHARGE OF COMPUTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Jonesboro man has been taken into custody after allegedly being caught arranging to have sexual intercourse with a juvenile.

According to KAIT, 23 year old Wesley Alexander Hull had a Facebook conversation with a girl that allegedly contained sexually explicit messages. He also reportedly deleted nude photos of the girl, who he said was about 16 years old, and later admitted to having sex with her.

Hull has been charged with computer child pornography and failure to comply with sex offender reporting requirements.

JONESBORO MAN ARRESTED AFTER STABBING INCIDENT

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing multiple charges in connection to a reported stabbing.

According to authorities, a woman was stabbed on Wednesday. One man has been arrested, 53 year old Charles Lavell Bausley, of Jonesboro.

Bausley is facing charges of aggravated assault, first degree battery, and carrying a weapon.

The condition of the victim was not available.

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Two people were arrested Thursday morning in Butler County on drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 46 year old Brian O. Brittain, of Grandin, and 29 year old Brenda S. Burks, of Poplar Bluff, were arrested at 10:30 am Thursday morning.

They are each facing a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine and a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE

A Williamsville man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest on Thursday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old Carl E. Randall has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

Randall is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding, and no seat belt.

CHILD SUMMER READING PROGRAM STARTS NEXT WEEK AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Science is the theme for this year’s child reading program at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library.

The program, “Fizz, Boom, Read,” will begin on June 2^nd and give children chances to earn prizes by reading. Marty the Magician, Mad Science of St. Louis, and Animal Tales will also be returning to the library this summer.

The summer reading program is available for children between the ages of 3 and 17. For more information, go online to poplarbluff.org, call 573-686-8639, or stop by the library at 318 North Main Street in Poplar Bluff.

STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL SPEAKS ABOUT EXECUTION RULES

Missouri's attorney general says the state should establish its own laboratory to produce chemicals for use in executions rather than rely on an "uneasy cooperation" with medical professionals and pharmaceutical companies.

Attorney General Chris Koster spoke Thursday to the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis during a meeting at Lake of Ozarks. Though a death penalty supporter, the Democratic attorney general cited his own concerns about the death penalty.

Missouri is among several states that purchase execution drugs in secret. Critics say that if details about the source and testing aren't made public, there is no way to assure that the inmate won't suffer during the execution process.

Koster says the state should not be reliant on merchants whose identities must be shielded from public view.

ARKANSAS SUPREME COURT THROWS OUT APPEAL OF MAN CONVICTED OF NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MURDERS

The Arkansas Supreme Court has thrown out an appeal by Charles Wayne "Chad" Green, who is serving life in prison for his role in the slayings of four family members in northeast Arkansas in 1998.

The high court on Thursday ruled that Green's argument that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to find him guilty is without merit.

The 38 year old Green was convicted of capital murder in the deaths of Carl and Lisa Elliott and their young children, Gregory and Felicia. They were killed near Dalton and it took authorities until 2003 to bring charges against Green and his father, 58 year old Billy Dale Green.

Both men are serving sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Authorities say the killings occurred after a drug deal went sour.

May 29, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052914  

CORONER’S INQUEST SCHEDULED FOR SHOOTING INVOLVING BUTLER COUNTY DEPUTY

A jury will meet next week to discuss a shooting incident involving a Butler County Sheriff’s Deputy.

The coroner’s inquest has been scheduled for June 4^th. The inquest is in connection to an incident that left one person dead this past weekend.

The Sheriff’s Deputy was investigating a report of a prowler at a residence when he was allegedly fired at. The deputy returned fire and fatally shot the individual.

The names of the officer and the person killed were not released.

BUTLER COUNTY MAN FACES UP TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON ON FIREARM CHARGE

A Butler County man is facing up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to a felony firearm charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 45 year old Timothy G. Ossana has pled guilty to a felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Poplar Bluff Police Officers found a pistol hidden in Ossana’s vehicle when he was arrested in November of 2013. Due to previous convictions, Ossana was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Ossana faces a maximum punishment of 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine at his sentencing on August 25^th.

DEXTER MAN CHARGED WITH PROMOTING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Dexter man is facing a child pornography related charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 23 year old Joesph Michael Frye was recently arrested on a warrant for second degree promoting child pornography.

Frye allegedly set up a fake Facebook page using inappropriate pictures that a 17 year old girl had sent him.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED ON COCAINE CHARGE

A Cape Girardeau man is facing felony drug charges following his arrest Wednesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Gene T. Wren has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance for cocaine and hydrocodone.

Wren is also facing a charge of possession of under 35 grams of marijuana.

HIGHWAY PATROL MAKES 36 ARREST OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

36 arrests were made by the Highway Patrol over the Memorial Day weekend in Southeast Missouri.

According to Captain George Ridens, 13 of the arrests were for driving while intoxicated, one was for boating while intoxicated, and the other 22 were drug arrests.

Officers in Troop E also investigated 29 traffic crashes, which resulted in 17 injuries and one fatality.

PIPE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route UU in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under roadway.

This section of roadway is located between Route D and County Road 784.

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

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in New Madrid County today for a pipe replacement.

Route H will be closed today from 8:30 am to 4 pm for the replacement. The work zone will be located from Highway 61 to County Road 843.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR TO DECIDE ON DRUG OVERDOSE ANTIDOTE BILL

Missouri law officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians could administer an antidote for drug overdoses under legislation on the governor's desk.

The bill would let trained responders use naloxone to treat people who overdose on narcotics or opiates such as heroin and prescription painkillers.

Several states already equip law enforcement officials with naloxone. Legislators approved the Missouri bill without dissent and sent it to Governor Jay Nixon before ending their annual session May 16^th.

TAX BREAKS COULD POSSIBLY HARM LOCAL GOVERNMENTS ACCORDING TO GOVERNOR NIXON

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is amplifying his opposition to a series of tax breaks passed by lawmakers.

Nixon said Wednesday the tax breaks could cost local governments $351 million of revenues annually. That's on top of what Nixon's administration projects as a $425 million annual reduction in state tax revenues.

Republican lawmakers have disputed some of the cost projections.

Legislators passed about two-dozen tax breaks for specific industries, organizations or consumers. Some of those would exempt sales taxes for expenses by computer data centers, electric companies and restaurants.

Nixon has said he will make vetoes or budget cuts in response to the tax breaks.

May 28, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052814  

AREA BUSINESSES WARNED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR QUICK CHANGE ARTIST

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce is warning area businesses to be on the lookout for a quick change artist in the area.

According to the Chamber of Commerce, an African American male wearing a ball cap has been purchasing small items to get the cashier to open the register and then confusing the register operator until he gets more money from them than he originally gave. He usually starts by paying with a large bill such as a $100 bill.

Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of the quick change artist is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776 or the Butler County Sheriff’s Department at 785-8444.

We have tips on how to handle a quick change artist available on our Facebook page at Facebook.com/930kwoc.

WARRANT ISSUED FOR KENNETT MAN IN CONNECTION TO RECENT SHOOTING

Multiple warrants have been issued for a Kennett man in connection to a recent shooting.

According to the Kennett Police Department, warrants have been issued on Uzzi C. Caruthers for first degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Anyone with information on Caruthers location is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department at 573-888-4622.

JONESBORO POLICE INVESTIGATING SHOOTING

A Jonesboro man was reportedly shot while walking with his brother.

According to KAIT, 19 year old Darius D. Sills, was shot in the leg at the intersection of Fairfield and Race in Jonesboro. The teen told police that he did not know who fired the shot.

Jonesboro Police are investigating the incident.

ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILED FOR ACCUSED BANK ROBBERS

Two people accused of robbing one southeast Missouri bank are now charged with robbing another.

The Dexter Daily Statesman reports that the Morley branch of First Commercial Bank was robbed May 20^th. One of the three suspects told police that he and one of the other suspects also robbed the Essex branch on March 17^th.

Tyrice Royston and Pamela Lathon, both of the St. Louis area, are accused in both crimes. A third suspect, Alexander Trotter, is charged only in the Morley robbery.

All three are jailed in Scott County.

POPLAR BLUFF MOTORCYCLE RIDER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

A motorcycle rider has serious injuries following a wreck Tuesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 71 year old Jackie Eddington, of Poplar Bluff, was ejected from his motorcycle after another vehicle failed to yield and made a left hand turn into his path.

The wreck occurred on Route B outside of Poplar Bluff at around 8:26 am Tuesday. Eddington was air lifted to a Cape Girardeau hospital following the wreck.

NINE INJURED IN TWO VEHICLE WRECK NEAR ARCADIA

A total of nine people were injured in a two vehicle wreck Tuesday in Iron County.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly before 6 pm on Missouri Highway 21, 8 miles south of Arcadia, when one of the vehicles crossed the centerline and struck the other vehicle.

Six of the nine people suffered serious injuries.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

The work zone will be located between County Roads 557 and 512.

Work will take place today from 8 am to 2 pm, weather permitting.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN SCOTT COUNTY

North and Southbound Interstate 55 in Scott County will be reduced to one lane over the next week and a half as contractor crews perform bridge approach repairs.

The bridge to be repaired is located over the US 60/ I-57 Interchange and I-55/ US 62.

Weather permitting, work will performed through Saturday, June 7^th from 6 am to 7 pm daily.

MISSOURI OFFICIALS URGE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST TICKS

Missouri conservation officials are urging people headed outdoors to take precautions against tick bites.

Insect repellants and covering up are two steps that can help. Officials say long-sleeved shirts, pants and securing pants cuffs are the first defenses.

People should check for ticks after returning indoors and shower quickly to remove unattached ticks. Putting clothes in the dryer on high heat before washing should kill any remaining ticks.

Ticks can spread various diseases, including Lyme disease, Rock Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Most tick-transmitted diseases require prolonged feeding. To remove a tick, use tweezers and grasp it as close to the skin as possible. Don't jerk or twist the tick when removing and clean the bite area.

LEGISLATION WOULD REQUIRE MORE OVERSIGHT OF SOME CHILD CARE CENTERS

Legislation pending before Missouri Governor Jay Nixon would require new oversight of some unlicensed child care centers.

The legislation would require state workers to visit unlicensed facilities that receive federal money. It also would require the development of quality indicators that parents could use to evaluate the safety and caliber of child care centers.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the legislation was prompted by changes in federal regulations. Missouri could lose more than $100 million in federal funding if it doesn't increase oversight.

It says the monitoring visits would apply to all child care centers, including about 3,900 in homes, churches and schools that are not currently inspected by state child care regulators.

The Missouri provisions would take effect no sooner than October 2015.

May 27, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052714  

MAN CHARGED WITH SECOND DEGREE MURDER AFTER ALLEGEDLY SHOOTING HIS WIFE

A Kennett man is facing a murder charge for allegedly shooting his wife.

According to Missouri Case Net, 51 year old Allan Branum has been charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action.

According to the Kennett Police Department, Allan allegedly shot his wife, Regina Branum, in the head with a .38 caliber revolver Thursday night.

TEENAGER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Doniphan teenager has died following a single vehicle wreck Friday in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 17 year old Austin Elliott was one of five teenagers thrown from the vehicle after it overturned. Elliott was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle, along with two other passengers, suffered serious injuries. Another passenger received moderate injuries.

According to the crash report, none of the five teens were wearing a safety device.

BUTLER COUNTY DEPUTY INVOLVED IN WEEKEND SHOOTING

An investigation is ongoing into a shooting over the weekend that involved a Butler County Deputy.

The deputy was investigating a report of a prowler at a residence when he was allegedly fired at. The deputy returned fire and fatally shot the individual. The deputy has been placed on administrative leave.

The names of the officer and the person killed were not released. An autopsy has been scheduled for this morning.

MAN FACING ATTEMPTED MURDER CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO WRECK

Authorities in Craighead County say a man purposely wrecked his vehicle last week in an attempt to kill his girlfriend.

Thomas Waters is reportedly facing charges of attempted first degree murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and terroristic threatening.

Both Waters and his girlfriend suffered injuries in the wreck on Wednesday.

MAN RAN OVER BY TRACTOR IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Dudley man has suffered serious injuries after being run over by a tractor last week.

According to the Highway Patrol, 65 year old Dennis R. Parks was attempting to jump start the tractor while it was in gear causing it to run over him.

Parks was taken by air to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

OKLAHOMA MAN ARRESTED ON COCAINE CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

An Oklahoma man was taken into custody Monday night in Butler County on a cocaine charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Kenneth A. Peterman, of Coweta, Oklahoma, is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, cocaine; possession of drug paraphernalia; and driving while suspended.

KENNETT POLICE INVESTIGATING SHOOTING INCIDENT

Kennett authorities are investigating a shooting incident that occurred Friday morning.

According to Kennett Police, officers witnessed six shots being fired by an unknown suspect in the area of Ninth Street Friday morning.

One of the rounds struck a passing motorists vehicle while another round nearly hit an officer. A subject in the vehicle that was hit pointed to a white passenger vehicle stating that there was a person shooting at them. The vehicle attempted to flee the area at a high rate of speed.

Officers were able to catch the vehicle and conduct a stop. The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody for felony driving while revoked and possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver.

Police believe that the shooter or shooters fled from the vehicle on foot prior to the stop. They were not located or identified.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department at 573-888-4622.

INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

North and Southbound I-55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform erosion work.

The work zone is located between Mile Markers 50 and 52.

Weather permitting, work will performed today through Thursday from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

VOTER WHO DIDN’T PROVIDE ID COULD DECIDE CRAIGHEAD  COUNTY ELECTION

A race for a Craighead County justice of the peace position ended in an apparent tie.

Election officials say incumbent Ray Kidd and challenger Mike Cox each received 129 votes in last Tuesday's primary.

Election Commission Chairman Scott McDaniel says the ballots will be counted against to ensure no votes were missed. The results are to be certified today.

McDaniel says there is one uncounted ballot that could decide the race. He says a voter didn't provide a required photo identification and has until noon today to do so in order for the ballot to be counted.

McDaniel says the ballot is sealed and it isn't known whether the ballot will affect the tied race.

If the race remains tied, Kidd and Cox will meet in a June runoff.

MISSOURI LEGISLATORS PASS SEVERAL PRIVACY RELATED BILLS

Missouri lawmakers have endorsed proposals aimed at bolstering privacy protections for electronic communications, public school students and library records.

Lawmakers approved several measures dealing with electronic privacy during the annual session that ended this month. Two bills are heading to Governor Jay Nixon and a constitutional amendment will appear on the August ballot.

The constitutional amendment would add electronic communications and data to existing protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

One bill would bar school districts from requiring students to use IDs with radio frequency identification to monitor or track students. Another measure would protect from disclosure library records about a patron's use of e-books and digital materials.

May 22, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052214  

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Lake City resident is dead following a wreck Wednesday morning in Craighead County, Arkansas.

According to KAIT, 33 year old Corkey Cooksey reportedly lost control of his vehicle at a high rate of speed causing it to roll multiple times and eject him.

His body was found 150 feet away from the vehicle.

TWO BOYS RECOVERED FROM REPORTED PARENTAL KIDNAPPING

Two boys have been recovered after a reported parental kidnapping.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, they were informed Wednesday morning of a parental kidnapping of two brothers, ages 10 and 13 out of Rector, Arkansas. The boys had been given to their grandmother by an Arkansas Court.

Their biological parents allegedly took the boys Wednesday morning without permission in a U-Haul truck.

Law Enforcement agencies received information that the parents were traveling south on I-55 passing by Cape Girardeau at around 9:20 am. Officers were able to stop the U-Haul vehicle on I-55.

They found two adults in the front of the vehicle and the two brothers, along with another adult, in the enclosed cargo bed of the truck.

The adults were arrested and taken to the police station pending the filing of formal charges. The kids were held until their grandmother could pick them up. No names were released in connection to the incident.

IDENTITIES RELEASED OF THREE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO MORLEY BANK ROBBERY

Authorities have released the identities of three people arrested in connection to a bank robbery Tuesday afternoon in Morley.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, 46 year old Pamela M. Lathon, 36 year old, Tyrice G. Royston, and 31 year old Alexander T. Trotter, all of St. Louis, are each facing charges of second degree robbery and felonious restraint.

The arrest is connection to the alleged robbery of First Commercial Bank in Morley on Tuesday. After receiving a report of the robbery, officers found two female bank employees both bound at the wrists, inside the bank. One of the employees had been sprayed in the face with pepper spray.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter said the suspect’s vehicle was spotted a short time later near Bell City in Stoddard County. Trotter, Royston, and Lathon were arrested after being compared to bank surveillance video.

Trotter and Royston reportedly admitted their involvement during an interview with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI.

KENNETT POLICE LOOKING SUSPECT IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED WATERMELON THEFT

A theft from an area store has Kennett Police asking for the public’s help.

According to the Kennett Police Department, a suspect is being sought in connection to the alleged theft of a trailer load of watermelons.

The Police Department has posted pictures of the suspect on their Facebook page.

We have the pictures available on our Facebook page, as well at www.Facebook.com/930KWOC.

MOST HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION TO BE SUSPENDED IN MISSOURI FOR MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY

The Missouri Department of Transportation will be suspending most construction and maintenance work on state roadways this weekend due to the Memorial Day holiday.

Work will stop at noon on Friday, May 23^rd and resume Tuesday, May 27^th after the morning rush period. Still, some lane and bridge closures will remain in place due to more permanent closures.

MoDOT is advising motorists to be careful on the roads this weekend. During the 2013 Memorial Day weekend, there were six people killed and 63 seriously injured in Missouri traffic crashes.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

A Stoddard County road will be closed today so crews can replace a pipe underneath the roadway.

Route H in Stoddard County will be closed from 8 am to 3 pm, weather permitting.

The work zone will be located from Highway 25 to County Road 607.

THIS WEEKEND MARKS THE OPENING OF SQUIRREL AND BASS SEASON IN MISSOURI

Missouri hunting and fishing seasons are opening this weekend for squirrels and bass.

The state Department of Conservation says hunters can take squirrels from Saturday through February 15^th with firearms or archery equipment. Trapping also is allowed as long as hunters check traps daily.

Also on Saturday, anglers can begin keeping largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass they catch from streams in southern Missouri. There are restrictions on keeping bass caught between March 1^st and Friday.

ACLU INVESTIGATING REPORTS CONCERNING ARKANSAS VOTER ID RULE

A day after the first statewide election with a voter identification requirement, the Arkansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union says it is investigating reports of some polling places being too strident in enforcing the rule.

ACLU legal director Holly Dickson said Wednesday that she'd gotten reports that some poll workers used barcode readers to scan in driver licenses, a step that's not part of the voter ID law. She says some other workers quizzed voters about information on their driver licenses, something else that she says isn't stated in the law.

The voter ID law was declared unconstitutional by Pulaski County Circuit Judge Tim Fox before the election but he postponed imposition of his ruling, so the law was enforced Tuesday and during early voting.

SUPREME COURT ORDERS FEDERAL COURT TO REVIEW CASE OF MISSOURI INMATE ON DEATH ROW

The Supreme Court has put off the execution of a Missouri inmate with a rare medical condition who challenged the state's refusal to disclose the source of its lethal injection drug.

The justices on Wednesday said a lower federal court needs to take another look at the case of convicted killer Russell Bucklew.

Bucklew's attorneys said the combination of the secrecy surrounding the execution drug and Bucklew's medical condition affecting his blood vessels makes for an unacceptably high risk that he would experience extreme pain if injected with a lethal dose of pentobarbital

Bucklew would have been the first inmate put to death since last month's botched execution in Oklahoma. Bucklew is on death row for killing a man during a 1996 crime spree.

May 21, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052114  

PARAGOULD MAN HELD ON MURDER WARRANT IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF HOMICIDE

A Paragould man is in custody in connection to a homicide investigation in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Jeremy Winkle is being held in the Craighead County Jail, on a warrant of first degree murder in connection to the death of 28 year old Tiffani Noles, of Paragould.

Noles was found dead Monday night in a Poplar Bluff apartment. An autopsy on Tuesday determined that the cause of death was strangulation.

Police were also searching for Kyle Hollis, of Paragould in connection to the case. He was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon in Cardwell on outstanding warrants for failure to appear.

After speaking with Hollis, investigators determined that there was no evidence to suggest that he was involved in Tiffani Noles' death.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING MOTORCYCLE WRECK

One person is dead following a motorcycle wreck last night in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Cody A. McSwain, of Scott City, was hit by a truck after he reportedly pulled into its path while making a left hand turn.

McSwain was pronounced dead at the scene.

BANK ROBBERY IN MORLEY LEADS TO ARREST OF THREE SUSPECTS

Authorities have arrested three people in connection to the alleged robbery of a bank in Scott County.

According to authorities, the robbery occurred Tuesday afternoon in Morley. The three suspects were arrested shortly afterwords.

Their names have not yet been released.

ELLSINORE MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

An Ellsinore man is facing a felony meth charge in connection to his arrest Tuesday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Basil W. Foster has been charged with felony possession of methamphetamine. Foster is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

MODOT URGES MOTORISTS TO USE CAUTION DURING 100 MILE YARD SALE

The Missouri Department of Transportation is urging motorists to be cautious while driving during the 100 mile yard sale this weekend on Highway 25.

There will be more traffic and congestion than usual along the route this weekend and drivers need to be extra careful and look for pedestrian traffic. Message boards will be in place along the route to alert drivers of the unusual traffic patterns and promote safe driving.

BOIL WATER ORDER IN EFFECT FOR PARTS OF WAYNE AND BUTLER COUNTIES

A boil water order is in effect for some people in Butler and Wayne Counties.

A well failure has caused the order to be issued for customers of Public Water District #4 north of the Wappapello Volunteer Fire Department. The order is in effect until further notice.

HIGHWAY PATROL TO HOLD OPERATION FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be holding an operation over Memorial Day weekend in an effort to reduce the number and severity of traffic crashes.

Throughout the weekend troopers in Southeast Missouri and throughout the state will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E., which stands for combined accident reduction effort.

Troop E in Southeast Missouri will also be participating in the statewide 20-Mile Trooper project during the peak travel periods on Friday and Monday. As a part of the project, troopers will be assigned to 20 mile stretches of Interstate 55 and other selected roadways.

SUPREME COURT JUSTICE HALTS BUCKLEW EXECUTION

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has issued an order halting the planned execution of a Missouri inmate.

Alito's order issued late Tuesday does not explain why he suspended the scheduled execution of Russell Bucklew, but it indicates that he or the high court will have more to say about the matter.

The order was issued shortly after the full 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a stay of execution granted hours earlier by a three-judge panel of that court.

The panel issued the stay over concerns that Bucklew's rare medical condition could cause him undue suffering during lethal injection.

Bucklew was scheduled to die by lethal injection at 12:01am this morning.

DECLINE IN CASINO AND LOTTERY REVENUE LEADS TO EDUCATION CUTS

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is making more cuts to public education because of a decline in casino and lottery revenues.

Nixon announced more than $35 million of new spending restrictions Tuesday. That's on top of $22 million of restrictions announced in April.

The Democratic governor said lottery and casino revenues are not meeting the amounts assumed in the 2014 budget that runs through June 30. Because the gambling revenues are dedicated to education, Nixon says the cuts must come from that area.

He said the K-12 school funding formula will lose $24.6 million in the latest round of cuts, raising the total cut to more than $40 million.

Nixon said universities would lose an additional $10.5 million, raising the total higher education reduction to nearly $17 million.

May 20, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052014  

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE INVESTIGATING CHECK FRAUD

Police in Poplar Bluff are investigating reports of forged checks being passed at area businesses.

According to Captain David Sutton, a total of four returned checks have been reported, with a total loss of over $3,300. The checks were drawn on a fictitious business account; and were made payable to Eric Creason and James Chesser.

Photos taken from surveillance video related to the case are available on our facebook page at Facebook.com/930kwoc.

Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to call 573-686-8036.

LESTERVILLE TEENAGER DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

An area teenager has died following a single vehicle wreck on Sunday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 18 year old Dustin D. Stulce, of Lesterville, ran off the side of Missouri Highway 21 in Reynolds County. Stulce then reportedly overcorrected and caused the vehicle to roll, ejecting him in the process.

Stulce was pronounced dead at the scene. A 17 year old passenger in the vehicle suffered minor injuries.

GOBLER TEENAGER CHARGED WITH MAKING A TERRORISTIC THREAT

A 17 year old Gobler teenager is facing a charge of making a terroristic threat in connection to posts found on his Facebook page.

According to KFVS, Marrocas Sanders has been charged with making a terroristic threat. The arrest follows an investigation into a possible “hit list” that involved students in the Delta C-7 school district.

During the investigation, a Pemiscot County School resource officer found out about the alleged threats on Sander’s Facebook page.

CHARLESTON MAN ARRESTED ON BURGLARY AND ROBBERY CHARGE

A Charleston man is facing multiple charges in connection to a reported home invasion and robbery.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, 22 year old Anthony Horton is charged with first degree burglary, first degree robbery, and armed criminal action.

On Saturday May 17^th, authorities received a report of a home invasion and robbery on Lee Avenue. An investigation revealed a suspect had allegedly forcibly entered the residence and threatened the occupants, including a 5 year old child, with a handgun.

Horton was later taken into custody without incident at an area business.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO HIGH SPEED CHASE

Two men are in custody following a high speed chase yesterday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, 33 year old Shawn Williams, and 53 year old Russell Cox, both of Corning, Arkansas, were arrested following a chase that went through three counties.

Two police officers were injured during the chase when an officer lost control of his vehicle and it overturned. Both officers were taken to an area hospital and later released.

GOVERNOR NIXON AUTHORIZES FUNDING FOR TORNADO SAFE ROOM IN STODDARD COUNTY

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon says that he has authorized the State Emergency Management Agency to proceed with a proposal for a tornado safe room in Stoddard County.

The proposal includes a 6,700 square foot safe room to shelter about 1,000 people in the Advance R-4 School. Four other tornado safe room projects were also approved across the state.

EXECUTION SET FOR TONIGHT FOR MISSOURI INMATE

Attorneys for a condemned Missouri inmate remain hopeful that a court will halt his execution even though the governor has shown little inclination to do so himself.

Russell Bucklew's attorneys have appealed to the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to halt his execution, which is scheduled for 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday.

They say the 46-year-old Bucklew suffers from a condition that can cause weakened and malformed blood vessels. They also say the secrecy surrounding the state's execution drug increases the risk of him suffering through an agonizing death if given a lethal injection.

Democratic Governor Jay Nixon told The Associated Press on Monday that he's considering Bucklew's clemency request but hadn't seen a reason to intervene.

It would be the first U.S. execution since Oklahoma's botched procedure last month.

MISSOURI VOTERS TO DECIDE ON EIGHT CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

Missouri voters will have a lot to think about this year when they look at their election ballots. There will be choices about farms, guns, lottery tickets and taxes, to name just a few.

That's because lawmakers have referred an unusually large number of constitutional amendments to the ballot for voters to decide.

During the session that ended last week, lawmakers voted to place six measures on the ballot. They referred an additional two to this year's ballot during their 2013 session.

That total of eight ballot measures would be the most placed there by the Legislature since the 1997-1998 sessions, when it referred 10 issues to voters.

All of this year's measures would appear on the November ballot, unless Governor Jay Nixon sets a different election date.

SOME GROUND BEEF SENT TO MISSOURI DISTRIBUTERS PART OF RECALL

Officials say a Detroit-based business is recalling about 1.8 million pounds of ground beef products sold for restaurant use in four states that may be contaminated with the bacteria E. coli.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced Monday that affected Wolverine Packing Co. products were produced between March 31 and April 18. They were shipped to distributors in Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service says 11 illnesses have been identified.

The products bear the establishment number "EST. 2574B" and will have a production date code in the format "Packing Nos: MM DD 14" between "03 31 14" and "04 18 14."

E. coli can cause severe cramps, nausea and diarrhea, as well as other complications.

ARKANSAS CLICK IT OR TICKET MOBILIZATION IS UNDERWAY

Arkansas law enforcement have began a two week long Click it or Ticket mobilization effort.

During the operation, which will go through June 1^st, Arkansas State Police and other law enforcement officers who will be on the lookout for violators of the Arkansas primary seat belt and child passenger safety laws.

According to new data released from the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic fatalities were up nationwide in 2012 for the first time in five years with more than 10,000 people killed not wearing their seat belts.

In Arkansas, 226 unbelted vehicle occupants died in 2012.

May 19, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051914  

ARRESTS MADE IN CONNECTION TO SHOPLIFTING INCIDENT

Poplar Bluff Police have arrested multiple people in connection to a shoplifting incident.

According to Captain David Sutton, James Hovis, Craig Cassinger, and Corey Holbek have been arrested after authorities found stolen tools in a vehicle they were in Thursday night.

Requests for felony stealing charges on the three men were forwarded to the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney.

Hovis and Holbek, along with a woman, Tiffany Glover, were arrested earlier this month on similar charges stemming from another felony stealing incident.

TWO ARRESTS MADE IN SIKESTON TEEN SHOOTING

Sikeston authorities have made two arrests in connection to the shooting of a Sikeston teenager last week.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, the teenager told police that he and another person were riding their bikes when someone leaned out of a vehicle’s window and fired four to five shots at them.

The victim suffered a gunshot wound to the back and was taken to an area hospital for surgery.

An investigation into the incident led police to the identity of the driver of the vehicle and the suspected shooter. They have both been taken into custody and have charges pending through the Scott County Prosecutors Office.

Their names have not yet been released.

MAN RECEIVES SERIOUS INJURIES AFTER BEING HIT BY VEHICLE IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A man has serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle while walking Saturday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred when a vehicle driving south on Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County.  The vehicle hit a walking pedestrian and then hit the median cable barrier.

A crash report from the Patrol listed the victim as unidentifiable.  He was flown out of state for medical treatment.

SIKESTON AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FRIDAY MORNING SHOOTING

No one was injured in a shooting incident Friday in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, around 11:15 am Friday morning, they received calls of shots fired in the area of John R. Boulevard and Monte Circle. At the scene, they found a vehicle that hit been struck by gunfire.

Following an investigation, authorities learned that the shooting was connected to an apparent argument between two groups of people. One of the subjects pulled a weapon following the argument.

The offender is in custody and authorities are seeking charges. The name of the offender was not released.

Authorities say that there is no reason to believe this shooting is related to the shooting that occurred on Thursday.

BROSELEY MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE

A Broseley man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Saturday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Derik P. Ray was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, methamphetamine. Ray is also facing a charge of failure to register vehicle.

MICHIGAN WOMAN ALLEGEDLY FOUND IN POSSESSION OF HEROIN AND MORPHINE

A woman was allegedly found with heroin and morphine in Scott County Sunday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Tasha R. Gose, of Marcellus, Michigan, is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for heroin and morphine, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and endangering the welfare of a child.

CREWS TO BE IN BUTLER COUNTY THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County this week for pavement repairs on Route HH.

The road will be reduced to one lane from Highway 53 to Highway 142 during the repairs. Weather permitting, work will performed through Thursday from 7 am to 4 pm daily.

HIGHWAY 67 IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Northbound Highway 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane early this week while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between County Road 214 and County Road 212.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 am to 5 pm daily.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Bridge repairs will force delays this week on Highway 60 in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Highway 60 will be reduced to one lane this week between Route E and Highway 61 so crews can seal bridge decks.

Weather permitting, work will take place daily from 7 am to 4 pm through Thursday.

LEGISLATION THAT WOULD RENEW PRESCRIPTION DRUG BENEFIT PASSED BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that would renew a prescription drug benefit for more than 200,000 low-income and disabled seniors.

The Missouri Rx Program is scheduled to expire in August, but the measure passed on Friday would extend the benefit until 2017.

State officials estimate more than 9 million prescription drug claims will be filed for 230,000 Missourians during the current budget year. Governor Jay Nixon has called on lawmakers to renew the program.

The legislation would also extend Medicaid coverage for unborn babies whose families earn up to three times the federal poverty level. It also would create a panel to study insurance coverage for eating disorders.

Senators voted 31 to 0 to send Nixon the bill and it cleared the House with a 126 to 13 vote shortly after.

FITNESS CENTERS AND ELECTRICAL UTILITIES INCLUDED IN NEW SALES TAX BILL

Missouri lawmakers have sent Governor Jay Nixon a bill providing sales tax breaks for fitness centers, data storage centers and electrical utilities.

The legislation would exempt resources and machinery used by utilities to produce and transmit electricity. Data storage centers would get a tax break for the electricity, machinery, equipment and parts they use.

The measure also narrows the definition of entertainment and recreation events for which sales tax can be charged. Current law had been interpreted to apply the tax to use of fitness centers and other athletic facilities. Lawmakers say that's not what they originally intended.

Senators approved the measure 24 to 7 on Friday, and the House passed it 92 to 34.

VOTERS TO DECIDE ON ELECTRONIC PRIVACY AMENDMENT

Missouri lawmakers are referring to the ballot a constitutional amendment that supporters say will boost electronic privacy protections.

The state constitution currently protects Missourians' "persons, papers, homes and effects" from unreasonable searches and seizures. The proposed constitutional amendment would add their "electronic communications and data" to that.

House members approved the measure 114 to 28 on Friday. It passed the Senate 31 to 1 last month and will appear on the November ballot unless Governor Jay Nixon picks a different date.

May 16, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051614  

WINONA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO MAKING THREATS TO VA MEDICAL CENTER

A Winona man is facing up to ten years in prison after pleading guilty to making threats to the Poplar Bluff VA Medical Center.

57 year old Markel Abbey has pled guilty to two counts of threat by interstate communication.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, on June 17^th and June 28^th, 2013, Abbey placed telephone calls to the Veterans

Administration Medical Center in Poplar Bluff and made a threat to physically harm his treating physician and members of the hospital staff.

His sentencing is set for August 11^th.

TEENAGER WOUNDED IN SIKESTON SHOOTING

Authorities in Sikeston are searching for more information about a shooting Thursday that put an area teenager in the hospital.

According to authorities, the victim told police that he and another person were riding their bikes when someone leaned out of a vehicle’s window and fired four to five shots at them.

The victim suffered a gunshot wound to the back and was taken to an area hospital for surgery. He is expected to recover.

Police believe they have found the vehicle that was involved in the shooting and are now attempting to identify who was in the vehicle at the time.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to call the Sikeston Department of Public Safety at 573-471-1500.

MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGES

A Lowndes man is facing multiple felony charges in connection to his arrest Thursday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Lindell B. Fischer is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and oxycodone, possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

3.1 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE HITS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A 3.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded Thursday in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, the quake occurred at 10:44 am Thursday, 9 miles northwest of Gideon.

The earthquake depth was listed at 3.5 miles.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY PROSECUTOR RESIGNS

The Poplar Bluff City Prosecutor has submitted his resignation.

According to the Daily American Republic, City Prosecutor Wade Pierce has resigned effective at midnight, May 31^st. Pierce has served in the role for over 11 years.

The city attorney position has now been filed, at least for the time being.

Robert Smith was appointed to the position on an interim basis earlier this week by interim city manager, Mark Massingham. Smith is taking over for Wally Duncan, who resigned earlier this month.

OPENING DATE SET FOR NEW POPLAR BLUFF HOBBY LOBBY

A new business in Poplar Bluff is set to open its doors to customers later this month.

Hobby Lobby will hold a grand opening celebration on Monday, May 26^th at 9 am. Hobby Lobby, a national retail chain of craft and home décor stores, will be located in Valley Plaza at North Westwood Boulevard and Maud Street.

ALMOST $11,000 RAISED DURING SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

Twenty-three teams have helped raise almost $11,000 for the Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation.

The money was raised during the Foundation’s 15^th annual golf tournament on May 2^nd at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course.

Proceeds from the tournament will go to fund student scholarships and classroom projects.

SCHOOL STANDARDS MEASURE SENT TO GOVERNOR NIXON

The Republican-led Missouri Legislature has passed legislation that would task groups of parents and educators with writing new benchmarks for student achievement.

The measure sent to Democratic Governor Jay Nixon on Thursday could pave the way for Missouri to become the second state to ditch the Common Core Standards, which have been adopted by more than 40 states. Missouri's State Board of Education adopted Common Core in 2010.

Under the bill, state officials would pick teams to develop new school standards for English, math, science and history to be implemented during the 2016 academic year.

Until then, Missouri schools could continue using Common Core in the classroom and for tests that are scheduled to be taken this fall.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS PASS BILL THAT WOULD ALLOW SOME FELONS TO QUALIFY FOR FOOD STAMPS

People convicted of drug felonies could potentially qualify for food stamps under a bill passed by the Missouri Legislature.

Drug felons are currently banned for life from the aid program. But the bill would allow them to receive the benefit if they have completed or been determined by the state not to need a substance abuse program. It would not apply to people with three or more felony drug convictions.

The bill would also restrict welfare spending out-of-state and at casinos, liquor stores and strip clubs. Recipients could lose their benefits if they don't make a purchase within Missouri every 90 days. They could also be penalized for spending public assistance on tobacco, alcohol or lottery tickets.

The House and Senate both passed the measure Thursday.

RURAL ECONOMY SURVEY SUGGESTS GROWTH

The economy appears to be gaining strength in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states.

The overall economic index for the region improved to 55.6 in May from April's 53.2, suggesting growth in the months ahead.

The survey of bankers in the region uses indexes that range from 0 to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. A score above 50 suggests growth in that factor in the months ahead.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss oversees the survey. He says the results show the economy is improving in these rural areas that depend heavily on agriculture and energy production.

Bankers from 10 states including Illinois and Missouri were surveyed.

May 15, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051514  

JONESBORO AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR TWO MEN IN CONNECTION TO REPORTED ARMED ROBBERY

Authorities are investigating an armed robbery that reportedly occurred Wednesday night in Jonesboro.

Two men allegedly took multiple items at gunpoint, including a phone and a credit card, from two people in the parking lot of an apartment complex on North Caraway.

Authorities are searching for the suspects.

MISSING ARKANSAS WOMAN DISCOVERED IN MISSISSIPPI

A missing woman from Pocahontas has been found safe.

According to KAIT, 67 year old Mary Carolyn Waddell was discovered Wednesday in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

According to the Arkansas State Police, a silver alert was issued for Waddell earlier this month after she went missing.

DEXTER MAN SENTENCED ON FIREARM CHARGE

A Dexter man has been sentenced on a firearms charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 22 year old Quenten T. Martin was sentenced to 57 months on one felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

In May of 2013, officers found Martin outside a Dexter hospital near a firearm on the ground. He admitted to officers that he had thrown the gun down when he saw the officers.

Martin is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

MAN ALLEGEDLY MAILED MARIJUANA TO AREA JAIL

An Illinois man has been arrested after allegedly mailing marijuana to an area jail.

30 year old Lenard Duncan is facing a charge of distribution of a controlled substance.

According to authorities, Duncan allegedly mailed the marijuana to an inmate at the Mississippi County Detention Center where he had previously been jailed.

TRC STUDENTS RECOGNIZED AT STUDENT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Over 50 high performing students were recently recognized at Three Rivers College’s Annual Student Excellence Awards.

Winners were chosen to represent each academic department and career education program, the Three Rivers Centers, honor society students, and major student organizations. To be eligible a student must have completed at least 15 credit hours and have a 3.0 cumulative GPA.

The ceremony was held on May 9^th.

ARCHITECTS MEET WITH POPLAR BLUFF EDUCATORS

Architects are meeting with local educators to discuss the new buildings plan.

Officials from Ittner Architects of St. Louis began the programming phase of the buildings plan on Tuesday, May 6^th.  They visited with Poplar Bluff High School educators to define needed space in the new facility, which will be located at the site of the 5^th and 6^th Grade Center.

Planners are continuing to meet with other educators this week including administration, faculty, and staff from the 5^th and 6^th Grade Center and Junior High.

MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL AND UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI SYSTEM PRESIDENT SPEAK TO POPLAR BLUFF EIGHTH GRADERS

Two Missouri state officials were recently in Poplar Bluff to speak to local students.

University of Missouri System President Tim Wolfe and Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster spoke to eighth graders at the Poplar Bluff Junior High School about the importance of higher education.

The presentation on May 8^th was a part of the Show Me Value tour.

GOVERNOR TO DECIDE ON SUNDAY MOTORCYCLE SALES

Missourians could buy motorcycles and some other recreational vehicles on Sundays under legislation sent to the governor's desk.

Many states have repealed bans on selling retail on Sunday, but Missouri still prohibits dealers from selling cars, trucks and motorcycles on that day.

Under the bill given final approval Tuesday, dealers could sell motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, personal watercraft and other vehicles "customarily sold by powersports dealers." Cars and trucks still could not be sold on Sundays.

Supporters argue it would make Missouri more competitive with neighboring states, including Kansas, that allow such sales on Sunday.

Missouri law already allows recreational vehicles, mobile homes, tires and repair parts for motor vehicles to be sold on Sundays.

LAWMAKERS GIVE APPROVAL TO AMENDMENT ON EARLY VOTING

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow early voting, though some contend it would be too limited.

The proposal would permit early voting on six days - but not on Saturday or Sunday. The early voting period would end the Wednesday before Election Day.

House members passed the measure 92 to 57 on Wednesday. It cleared the Senate earlier this week 22 to 8, so it will be on the ballot this year.

Another early voting proposal also could appear on the fall ballot. An initiative petition would allow early voting for six weeks - including weekends for the final 21 days before an election.

GOVERNOR NIXON REPORTEDLY USED MONEY INTENDED FOR FOSTER CARE OVERSIGHT TO PAY DUES

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon's administration has been paying its dues to the National Governors Association with money intended for foster care oversight and other social services.

State financial figures show Nixon's administration has paid about $390,000 in dues to the group over the past three years from the budget of the Department of Social Services. More than half of that money has come from the department's administration of the Children's Division, which oversees the foster care program.

House Republican leaders on Wednesday denounced the payment method as "disturbing" and "deceptive."

Nixon spokesman Scott Holste released a written statement from the governor saying House leaders should already have been well-aware of the dues payments. The statement called their newfound concerns a "diversionary stunt" as the legislative session draws to a close.

May 14, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051414  

HEALTH WARNING ISSUED FOR WHOOPING COUGH

Recent instances of pertussis in Butler County children have caused the local health department to take notice.

According to the Sikeston Standard Democrat, recently there has been six confirmed cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, combined in Butler and Dunklin Counties.

The Butler County Health Department says that vaccinations are available at no charge at the health department. Additional information is available by calling the health department at 573-785-8478.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING JONESBORO SHOOTING

One person has died following a shooting at a residence in Jonesboro.

According to authorities, police found 47 year old William Keith Gosney with multiple gunshot wounds Monday night. Gosney later died at an area hospital.

Police are investigating the incident.

MAN ACCUSED OF ABUSING AND THREATENING TO KILL WIFE

A Northeast Arkansas man has been arrested after allegedly abusing and threatening to kill his wife.

According to KAIT, 57 year old Charles Russell, of Brookland, is facing charges of aggravated assault and abuse of an adult.

Russell allegedly chokes and hit his bedridden wife in the head as well as choked her. She was able to get help through an emergency response system she had around her neck.

THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DAMAGE DONE AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS AIRPORT

Vandals have reportedly done over $50,000 worth of damage at a Northeast Arkansas airport.

The vandals allegedly destroyed signage and damaged runway lighting at the Walnut Ridge Airport Saturday night.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to call the Walnut Ridge Police Department at 870-886-6073.

MAN SENTENCED ON DISTRIBUTION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE

Two counts of distribution of a controlled substance have landed a Malden man in jail.

According to authorities, 38 year old Rommel Newton was found guilty in March on two counts of distribution of a controlled substance. He has been sentenced to 15 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

REPORT OF SHOTS FIRED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

An investigation has started into a report of shots being fired Tuesday in Cape Girardeau.

According to authorities, the incident occurred Tuesday afternoon in the area of Jefferson Avenue. There were no injuries.

OFFICIALS LOOKING FOR VANDALS WHO DAMAGED AREA OF MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

Damage at a free camping and swimming area of Mark Twain National Forest has officials looking for vandals.

According to the Mark Twain National Forest Ranger District, the damage was done between April 28^th and May 2^nd at a primitive camping and swimming park area at the Dunrovin Recreation Area near Doniphan.

Anyone who has information about the vandalism is asked to contact Mark Twain National Forest Eleven Point Ranger District Office at 573-996-2153. All calls will be kept confidential.

GRANDIN RESIDENTS TO BE WITH OUT WATER FOR A PERIOD OF TIME TODAY

Grandin residents will be without water for possibly two hours today.

Water will be off for the City of Grandin sometime today between 8 am and noon due to an old well.

When the water service is back on, a boil water advisory will be in effect until further notice.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE HAS YET TO SEND OUT OVER 300 THOUSAND INCOME TAX REFUNDS

Several hundred thousand Missouri taxpayers are still waiting for refund checks nearly a month after the tax deadline.

State budget director Linda Luebbering says the Department of Revenue has 366,000 individual income tax refunds remaining to be sent. People are owed a total of about $167 million.

Luebbering says the department appears to be behind last year's pace in issuing tax refunds. That's partly because more people waited to file their taxes and partly an effort to manage the state's cash flow.

Through the end of April, Missouri's net general revenues were up just 0.5 percent though the first 10 months of the 2014 fiscal year.

Luebbering says the lag in tax refunds means the state's finances probably are a little worse than those figures would make it appear.

NEW MISSOURI CRIMINAL CODE GOES INTO EFFECT IN 2017

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is allowing a massive overhaul of the state's criminal laws to take effect without his signature.

Nixon faced a Tuesday deadline to act on the legislation that creates new classes of felonies and misdemeanors. The Democratic governor had expressed concern that the measure could contain mistakes and was too ambitious.

But he said his concerns were alleviated when supporters agreed to immediately advance a separate bill to correct some drafting errors. The legislative session ends Friday.

The measure reduces possible prison sentences for some nonviolent drug crimes, while imposing stiffer penalties in other areas like sexual assaults and driving while intoxicated.

The bill's provisions will take effect in January 2017. It's the first comprehensive rewrite of Missouri's criminal code since 1979.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE SLIGHTLY DOWN IN MISSOURI

A new report says Missouri gained about 8,200 jobs in April while the state's unemployment rate dipped slightly.

The state Department of Economic Development said Tuesday the growth in seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs came partly from increases in construction work, the leisure and hospitality sector and retail trade.

It said Missouri's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell by one-tenth of a percentage point to 6.6 percent in April.

Missouri's seasonally adjusted civilian labor force of about 3 million people declined by 1,456 people in April. The labor force counts people with jobs and those who are on unemployment but looking for work.

May 13, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051314  

CHARLESTON POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN EARLY MORNING ARMED ROBBERY

Police are looking for a man they say robbed a McDonald’s in Charleston Monday morning.

According to authorities, at approximately 4:30 am, a male with a handgun overpowered an employee who was opening the restaurant.  The suspect, who was wearing a hoodie, took an undetermined amount of cash and fled the scene in an employee’s car.

The stolen vehicle was later located on a county road off Highway 60.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Charleston Department of Public Safety at 573-683-3737.

MAN KILLED DURING ILLINOIS BURGLARY ID’d AS SIKESTON RESIDENT

Authorities have identified a Missouri man who was shot and killed by a rural southwestern Illinois homeowner during a botched burglary.

The Belleville News-Democrat reports 62 year old Lloyd Turner, of Sikeston, died during the break-in attempt last Thursday near Millstadt.

He was identified by the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department.

The 72 year old homeowner shot Turner moments after calling 911 to say he heard glass breaking.

Sheriff's deputies who responded found Turner dead in the driveway.

Authorities say the homeowner likely won't face charges.

Investigators say Turner was found with no identification, and the license plate on the vehicle he drove to the home wasn't registered to him.

MAN ACCUSED OF THREATENING TO SHOOT CHILD

A man is in custody in Cape Girardeau County for allegedly threatening to shoot a child.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Department, 37 year old Kevin David Posh, was arrested on May 11^th on a charge of first degree endangering the welfare of a child.

Posh is accused of pointing a 9 mm handgun at a child under 17 years old and threatening to shoot the child.

THIRD PERSON ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STODDARD COUNTY ARSON

A third person has been arrested on attempted murder and arson charges in connection to an incident in Stoddard County.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney, Russell Oliver, 69 year old Donald Lafferty, of Quechee, Vermont, was arrested in Massachusetts Monday night in connection to a 2013 arson in Bloomfield.

Lafferty has been charged with attempted murder, first degree arson, armed criminal action, and financial exploitation of an elderly person.

Both Brandy Hicks and Chris Hicks have been arrested in connection to the case.

JONESBORO MAN CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas have taken a Jonesboro man into custody following an accusation that he sexually assaulted a 19 year old woman.

According to KAIT, the woman told authorities that 20 year old Curtis Sherrod Cohen had forced himself on her.

Cohen was arrested on a charge of second degree sexual assault.

STEELE MAN FACING ASSAULT AND FELONIOUS RESTRAINT CHARGES

A Steele man is facing multiple charges after allegedly running over another man.

According to KFVS, a man told police that 59 year old Ronald H. Howell had ran over him with a jeep. The man suffered a serious leg injury.

Howell’s wife also told authorities that Howell had assaulted her and held her against her will.

Howell is charged with felonious restraint and first degree assault.

MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An Alicia man was taken into custody over the weekend on drug charges.

According to authorities, 35 year old Mitchell Nicholas was arrested Saturday on charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A Sheriff’s Deputy reportedly found two syringes on Nicholas that tested positive for meth.

TRAFFIC FATALITIES UP IN 2014

New information released by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, shows that traffic fatalities are up almost 10 percent this year.

According to the Highway Patrol, there has been a nine percent increase in fatalities so far in 2014. From 2006 to 2013 traffic fatalities dropped from 1,257 to 757.

The Highway Patrol is asking every driver to help lower that number by being safe drivers. This includes paying attention while driving, making sure you and everyone in your vehicle are wearing a seat belt, not speeding and not drinking and driving.

GOVERNOR NIXON TO DECIDE ON ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE REGULATIONS

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation barring people younger than 18 from buying electronic cigarettes.

The House voted 127 to 19 on Monday to send the bill to Governor Jay Nixon. It passed the Senate earlier this year.

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices used to heat a liquid nicotine solution and create vapor that is inhaled.

Supporters say the legislation would protect teenagers from early exposure to nicotine. Opponents say it doesn't go far enough because it exempts e-cigarettes from some restrictions on tobacco sales and advertising. Under the bill, e-cigarettes would not be subject to Missouri's tobacco tax.

The vote comes a few weeks after the Food and Drug Administration announced plans to ban sales to minors, add warning labels and require approval for new products.

ARKANSAS GOVERNOR ADDS 11 COUNTIES TO DISASTER DECLARATION REQUEST

Arkansas' congressional delegation says Governor Mike Beebe has added 11 counties to the state's major disaster declaration request to help in the recovery from last month's deadly storm.

The two senators and four U.S. House members say in a news release that they wrote to President Barack Obama and the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency earlier Monday in support of Beebe's request.

Clay, Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp, Faulkner, and White Counties will now be eligible to apply for public assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities.

The April 27^th storm produced a powerful tornado and caused widespread destruction as it passed through the state. Fifteen people were killed.

May 12, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051214  

TWO DEXTER RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON ATTEMPTED MURDER WARRANTS

Two Dexter residents were recently arrested on attempted murder warrants.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 34 year old Christopher David Hicks and 33 year old Brandy Lee Hicks, were each arrested on warrants for attempted murder, armed criminal action, and first degree arson. Their bond was set at $750,000 each.

Details about the incident that led to the warrants were not released.

MAN TASERED AFTER ALLEGEDLY USING A NINJA SWORD TO RESIST ARREST

Authorities in Mississippi County arrested an East Prairie man last week after he allegedly used a ninja sword to resist arrest.

According to KFVS, 41 year old George E. Taylor Junior, is facing charges of assault on a law enforcement officer by use of a deadly weapon, resisting arrest, and second degree domestic assault.

A victim reportedly told authorities that Taylor had assaulted her. When approached by a Sheriff’s Deputy, Taylor allegedly used a ninja sword in an aggressive and threatening manner. When Taylor stepped toward the deputy with the sword, the deputy used his taser on Taylor.

CANALOU TEENAGER ARRESTED AFTER REPORTEDLY BEING CAUGHT DRIVING OVER 110 MILES PER HOUR

A Canalou teenager was taken into custody on Mother’s Day after allegedly being caught driving over 110 miles per hour.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Jasmine N. Kennedy, was arrested shortly before 9 am Sunday in New Madrid County. Kennedy has been charged with speeding, 111 miles per hour in a 70 mile per hour zone, and no insurance.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOTS FIRED NEAR SEMO CAMPUS

Authorities in Cape Girardeau are investigating a report of shots being fired early Saturday morning near the Southeast Missouri State University Campus.

According to authorities, shots were fired on a city street in front of one of Southeast’s residence halls at around 1:30 am Saturday.

No one was injured in the incident. Officials say persons of interest have been identified, and they are not Southeast students.

The incident is being investigated the SEMO Department of Public Safety and the Cape Girardeau Police Department.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY ATTORNEY RESIGNS

The Poplar Bluff City Attorney has resigned from his position.

According to the Daily American Republic, Wally Duncan submitted his resignation on Friday. He cited the recent changes to the city council in his resignation letter.

Duncan had served as the Poplar Bluff City Attorney for the past 27 years.

ROAD STRIPING TO BE DONE THIS WEEK ON HIGHWAY 34 IN CARTER, REYNOLDS, AND WAYNE COUNTY

Highway 34 in Carter, Reynolds and Wayne Counties will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews stripe the roadway.

Crews will be working from US 60 at Van Buren in Carter County, through Reynolds County, and to Piedmont in Wayne County.

Work will take place today through Friday, May 16^th from 7 am to 7:30 pm daily.

BRIDGE WASHING TO BEGIN TODAY IN FOUR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES

Crews will begin a three week bridge washing project today in four southeast Missouri counties.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, crews will be working to wash bridges on various state routes in Scott, Mississippi, New Madrid and Pemiscot Counties.

Some of the work will be completed at night. The operation is expected to take three weeks.

ELECTRIC CAR MAKER IS CRITICAL OF MISSOURI PLAN ON CAR SALES

Electric car maker Tesla Motors is decrying a last-minute legislative move in Missouri to prohibit direct car sales to consumers.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that state lawmakers added new wording to a pending bill that would bar auto manufacturers from circumventing car dealerships and selling directly to buyers. The measure passed the Missouri Senate without debate.

The California company called the move a "sneak attack" by the Missouri Auto Dealers Association in a statement on its website entitled "Trouble in Missouri." The Legislature adjourns this week.

The effort's top supporters include state Senator Mike Kehoe, a Jefferson City Republican and former car dealer.

TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX IN JEOPARDY

A proposed transportation sales tax increase is in jeopardy in the Missouri House because some Democrats are upset about an income tax cut.

The three-quarters cent sales tax already has passed the Senate and needs just one more House vote to be referred to this year's ballot. But the legislative session ends May 16^th, and support for the transportation tax is waning.

When the House approved an earlier version of the bill in April, 33 Democrats joined 63 Republicans to exceed the 82 votes needed to pass legislation.

But House Minority Leader Jake Hummel says Democrats are now reconsidering their support for the sales tax, after Republicans enacted an income tax cut this week by overriding the veto of Democratic Governor Jay Nixon.

GOVERNOR NIXON SAYS HE WON’T VETO OVERHAUL OF CRIMINAL CODE

A Missouri lawmaker says she's "thrilled" that Gov. Jay Nixon won't veto a massive overhaul of the state's criminal code.

The legislation was sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Jolie Justus, a Kansas City Democrat. Justus said Nixon's chief-of-staff and legal counsel indicated at a meeting Friday that the governor won't veto the measure.

Nixon had expressed concerns that the bill tried to do too much at one time and said there was "no room for error" when overhauling the criminal code for the first time since 1979. The governor had faced a deadline next Tuesday to veto the bill or let it become law.

Supporters say the bill has been thoroughly vetted with dozens of public hearings and input from multiple organizations. Its provisions take effect in 2017.

May 9, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 050914  

BUTLER COUNTY FIREFIGHTER ACCUSED OF ARSON

A volunteer firefighter in southeast Missouri is facing accusations that he set fire to his own home, with his son inside.

The Poplar Bluff Daily American Republic reports that firefighters responded to a home fire Tuesday morning at the home of a Butler County volunteer firefighter. A state investigator was called to the scene after firefighters determined it was suspicious.

The homeowner told authorities he was asleep with his 6-year-old son on the living room couch when he was awakened by a barking dog and smoke. The man said he got his son out.

After questioning, police detective Scott Phelps says the man admitted starting the fire, saying he had been struggling with issues.

Formal charges have not been filed and the man is undergoing mental health evaluation.

BOMB SQUAD CALLED TO SCENE OF CAPE GIRARDEAU BANK ROBBERY

The FBI is on the scene and a Cape Girardeau bank has been evacuated after a bank robbery this morning.

Authorities say a man entered the Bank of Missouri on Broadway just after 9:30 am, placed a device on the counter, grabbed several items and fled on foot.

Police evacuated the bank and called on the bomb squad to evaluate the device.  No details have been released at this time as to what they determined.

The suspect has been described as a black male, medium build wearing brown coveralls.

WOMAN REPORTED MISSING OUT OF POCAHONTAS

A Silver Alert has been requested for a missing Pocahontas woman.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 67 year old Mary Carolyn Waddell reportedly left her residence on Tuesday at around 4 pm. She left a note saying that she was having financial problems and was going away for a couple of days.

The Arkansas State Police says that Waddell is being treated for depression and the only family she has outside of Arkansas is in Illinois.  They say she has not contacted them.

She may be travelling in a Blue 2002 Dodge Caravan with an Arkansas license plate of 592 OHX.

Anyone who has information about Waddell’s whereabouts should contact the Pocahontas Police Department at 870-892-3295.

WINONA MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING WIFE WITH POISONED KOOL-AID

A Winona man is in custody after being accused of killing his wife with poisoned Kool-Aid.

Authorities say 35 year old Jason McClurg told a witness that he had mixed a large amount of blood pressure medicine into his wife’s drink in an attempt to “get rid of her.”

According to accounts, McClurg first unsuccessfully attempted the poisoning with motion sickness pills on Saturday. When that did not work, he tried again on Sunday using blood pressure medication.

32 year old Stephanie McClurg was found dead on the family’s couch Sunday.

Authorities say McClurg admitted to the crime Tuesday. He has been charged with first degree murder.

SHOOTING IN WALNUT RIDGE DEEMED JUSTIFIED

Officials have determined that a shooting that involved two Walnut Ridge police officers last month was justified.

Elijah Waltman was shot by Police during an incident on April 23^rd. Waltman had shot a female before being shot by police.

According to KAIT, Prosecuting attorney Henry Boyce says that the officers were justified in shooting Waltman and that criminal charges are not warranted.

ONE ARRESTED IN OREGON COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

An Alton female was arrested Wednesday morning on drug charges in Oregon County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 39 year old Ladonna A. Asher, is facing charges of possession with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and child endangerment.

SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH IN DEXTER

Officials in Dexter are planning to hold a checkpoint in the near future.

According to Dexter Police Chief Sammy Stone, the Dexter Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint sometime in June. The operation will be done in cooperation with other local law enforcement agencies.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR HAS KNEE SURGERY

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is recovering after having arthroscopic surgery on his knee.

Nixon spokesman Scott Holste said Thursday that the governor has remained on the job by holding staff meetings at his residence instead of the Capitol.

He said Nixon had the surgery Tuesday morning in Columbia. That's about the same time that the Missouri House was voting to enact an income tax cut by overriding Nixon's veto of the bill.

Nixon has had other knee procedures in the past. Holste said the latest surgery was not the result of any new injury.

LAWMAKERS SEND NEW BUDGET TO GOVERNOR NIXON

Missouri lawmakers have passed a budget that would restore Medicaid benefits cut a decade ago and boost spending on public education.

The $26.4 billion budget approved Thursday now goes to Governor Jay Nixon. It would take effect July 1^st.

The budget would restore dental care and occupational, speech and physical therapies for hundreds of thousands of adult Medicaid recipients. Those benefits were eliminated in 2005 under cuts enacted by the Republican-led Legislature.

The 2015 budget also would provide at least a $114.8 million increase in the state's $3.1 billion of basic aid for public schools.

Colleges and universities would get an average performance-based funding increase of 5 percent.

The budget also increases funding for college scholarships and authorizes bonding for a new building at the Fulton State Hospital.

FORMER MISSOURI GOVERNOR PASSES AWAY

A son of former Missouri Governor Joseph Teasdale says his father has died at age 78.

The former Democratic governor's eldest son, Bill Teasdale, tells the Associated Press that his father died of complications from pneumonia shortly after 5 pm Thursday at a Kansas City hospice center. He says his father was surrounded by family when he passed away.

Joe Teasdale defeated Republican Governor Christopher S. Bond in 1976 and served as Missouri's governor until 1981, when Bond took back the seat.