June 5, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060515  

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN KILLED IN MADISON COUNTY WRECK

A Poplar Bluff woman is dead following a two vehicle crash in Madison County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred Thursday evening on US 67 at Cherokee Pass.

A vehicle driven by 55 year old Thursa Clubbs, of Fredericktown, allegedly crossed into the path of another vehicle. After the two vehicles collided, Clubb’s truck overturned. A passenger in the second vehicle, 70 year old Janice Helm, was pronounced dead at the scene.

At least five people in Clubb’s vehicle were injured in the wreck.

MOTORCYCLE WRECK LEAVES ONE DEAD

A Jonesboro man was involved in a fatal wreck Thursday night in Craighead County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 33 year old Michael Holcomb was driving a motorcycle on Harrisburg Road when he failed to negotiate a curve and struck a portion of fencing.

The accident occurred at around 9 pm. Holcomb was pronounced dead at the scene.

JACKSON POLICE WARNING CITIZENS TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR ILLEGAL ACTIVITY

Jackson Police are warning area citizens to be on the lookout for criminal activity.

Police say on Wednesday night, multiple areas had several vehicles that were gone through and some had property stolen. Authorities are advising that you do not leave anything of value in your vehicle.

Anyone who sees anything suspicious in their neighborhood should contact local authorities.

SIKESTON LAWYER APPOINTED TO SCOTT COUNTY POSITION

A Sikeston lawyer has been chosen to be the new Scott County Public Administrator.

On Thursday, Governor Jay Nixon appointed Julia Crader Dolan to the position. Dolan is taking over for former administrator Pam Drinberger, who has retired.

Dolan has operated a law practice in southeast Missouri for more than 30 years. She is a former member of the Sikeston R-6 School Board and served as the board president, as well as being a past member and president of the Board of Directors of Legal Services of Southern Missouri.

POPLAR BLUFF ROAD TO BE CLOSED

Poplar Bluff police say a city road will be closed in the afternoon due to construction.

Highland Drive will be shut down in the afternoons for 30 to 40 minutes. The closure will be at the Poplar Bluff Senior High School at approximately 2:30 to 3 pm while buses are loading.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the closures will continue until further notice.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS TO BE DONE THIS WEEKEND IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

Motorists planning on driving on Interstate 55 this weekend should expect delays in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Northbound I-55 will be reduced to one lane at the Diversion Channel bridge located between Route AB and Route 74.

Southbound I-55 will also be reduced to one lane between Route 74 West and Route 74 East.

Both of the lane closures are for bridge repairs. Work is scheduled to be done from 8 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday.

MISSOURI GOVERNMENT SEEKING IDEAS FOR TIME CAPSULE

The state of Missouri is seeking ideas for a new time capsule to be placed to honor the 100th anniversary of the Missouri State Capitol Cornerstone.

The new time capsule will include items representing Missouri government, technology, sports and culture and remain sealed until the 200th anniversary of the Capitol. Missourians can submit their ideas online at Mo.gov/TimeCapsule or on Twitter using the hashtag #MoTimeCapsule until midnight on June 20^th.

In 1915, a time capsule was placed when the Capitol cornerstone was dedicated. The original time capsule will be unveiled at a ceremony on Friday, July 3^rd.

RIGHT TO WORK LEGISLATION VETOED BY GOVERNOR NIXON

(AP) - Governor Jay Nixon has blocked a contentious measure that would have made Missouri the 26th right-to-work state.

Nixon on Thursday vetoed the bill that would have barred workplace contracts that require nonmembers to pay union fees.

Supporters in the state's Republican-led Legislature passed the measure for the first time this year, saying it would attract business and spur economic growth.

Opponents argue it would weaken unions and lead to lower wages.

Even with a record number of Republicans in the House, it's unclear whether the measure has enough support for lawmakers to overturn Nixon's veto. Some Republicans in both chambers split from their party to join Democrats in opposition to the bill.

The measure passed both chambers with fewer than the two-thirds majority needed for an override.

HUNGER HOTLINE AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

A toll free hotline funded by the United States Department of Agriculture is making it easier for low income households to access food from both private and governmental resources.

The National Hunger Hotline can be reached at 1-866-3-HUNGRY between 7 am and 7 pm Monday through Friday.

The hotline staff connects callers with emergency food providers in their community, government assistance, nutritional assistance programs, and various services that promote self-sufficiency.

During summer months, the hotline provides information about meal sites where children 18 years old and under can get free, nutritious meals through the USDA Summer Food Service Program.

June 4, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060415  

MURDER FOR HIRE PLOT LEADS TO ARREST OF JONESBORO WOMAN

A Northeast Arkansas woman allegedly attempted to hire somebody to murder her ex-husband.

According to the Jonesboro Police Department, 41 year old Jonesboro resident Joy Werner has been taken into custody on a warrant of conspiracy to commit capital murder.

Werner allegedly attempted to hire an undercover police officer to kill her-ex husband.

ELLSINORE MAN ARRESTED ON MANSLAUGHTER WARRANT

An Ellsinore man was taken into custody Wednesday morning on a manslaughter warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Aaron Freeman was arrested on a felony warrant from Carter County for involuntary manslaughter.

Additional details about the warrant were not available.

MAN REPORTEDLY STABBED 18 TIMES AT JONESBORO RESIDENCE

A man was allegedly stabbed 18 times during a robbery attempt in Jonesboro.

According to KAIT, the victim told authorities that the stabbing occurred after two of his neighbors broke into his apartment.

The neighbors, 20 year old Rayvon Waldroup and a 17 year old juvenile were taken into custody and are facing charges of first degree battery and aggravated robbery.

MULTIPLE BURGLARY REPORTS MADE WEDNESDAY IN KENNETT

Kennett Police say separate burglary incidents were reported Wednesday.

At 8:20 am, Kennett Officers were dispatched to McDaniel Firestone for a report of an attempted burglary. The owner stated that sometime during the night someone attempted to break out a window at the rear of the store.

Just over an hour later, officers were dispatched to a residence for a burglary report. At the scene, a resident told police they had been out of town and when they returned several items was missing from the residence.

Anyone who has information about either of the incidents is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department.

16 ARRESTED DURING WARRANT ROUNDUP IN SIKESTON

16 people were taken into custody Wednesday as a part of a warrant round up in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston DPS, multiple agencies assisted in the round up. The arrests were part of a list of over 30 subjects with warrants for their arrests. The warrants were for various charges such as drug distribution, burglary, and sex offenses.

In addition to the 16 arrests, three were served court summons and one subject was found to be incarcerated prior to the roundup.

CROP DUSTER CRASHES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A crop duster reportedly crashed Wednesday evening in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, the plane went down near Delaplaine in Greene County. The Greene County Sheriff says the pilot appeared to be okay.

An investigation into the cause of the crash will be conducted by officials with the Federal Aviation Administration.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR BUTLER COUNTY BRIDGE PROJECTS

Two contracts were awarded Wednesday by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for bridge projects in Butler County.

An approximately $461,000 contract was awarded to Joe's Bridge & Grading, Inc., for bridge repairs over the St. Francis River on Route 51.

An over $683,000 contract was awarded to Hessling Construction Inc., for three bridge replacements in Butler County. Bridges to be replaced include the Route 142 bridges over Taft Ditch and Cane Creek and the Route 158 bridge over Cane Creek.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD CLOSED THROUGH JUNE 23

A portion of Route 114 in Stoddard County has been closed so contractor crews can perform bridge repairs.

The work zone is located from Airport Road to County Road 725.

The road is set to reopen Tuesday, June 23^rd at 5 pm.

AMEREN MOVES TO END CONTRACT WITH NORANDA ALUMINUM

(AP) - Ameren Missouri has given state regulators notice that the utility plans to challenge a recent order allowing lower rates for its largest customer.

St. Louis-based Ameren filed notice Tuesday that it will challenge the Missouri Public Service Commission's April order allowing Noranda Aluminum to pay less for electricity. The commission also granted Ameren a rate increase.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Ameren argues the commission ignored the cost to serve Noranda.

Noranda also said Tuesday that Ameren plans to let its contract with the New Madrid aluminum smelter expire in 2020. But Ameren says its decision to end its contract with Noranda had nothing to do with the smelter's rate cut.

Noranda says Ameren's contract can't be terminated without regulatory approval.

PROPOSED INITIATIVE PETITIONS WOULD UP MISSOURI MINIMUM WAGE

(AP) - Three initiative petitions to increase Missouri's minimum wage have been approved for circulation.

Secretary of State Jason Kander on Tuesday announced supporters of all three now can begin collecting signatures.

The petitions need to be signed by at least 5 percent of legal voters in six of the state's eight congressional districts to make it onto a ballot.

All three petitions propose increasing the state's minimum wage, which is adjusted to changes in cost of living.

The minimum wage in effect for 2015 is $7.65 an hour.

The petitions propose upping that to $9 per hour. One would increase that $1 a year until 2023, when it reaches $15 an hour. The other two would increase the minimum wage $1 a year until it reaches $11 or $12.

June 3, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060315  

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TEMPORARILY REMOVED FROM OFFICE

Nepotism allegations have prompted the temporary removal of a Poplar Bluff City Council member.

According to the Daily American Republic, a court order was issued removing council member Jack Rushin pending a hearing next month.

OAK RIDGE MAN EJECTED FROM VEHICLE IN FATAL WRECK

An Oak Ridge man has died following a wreck in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 57 year old Bernard Seiler ran off the side of Route E and overturned. Seiler was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

MURDER SUSPECT IN CUSTODY IN BLYTHEVILLE

A murder suspect is in custody in Blytheville.

According to authorities, 20 year old Treyon Peel surrendered himself Tuesday afternoon.

Blytheville Police had been searching for Peel in connection to the shooting death of 21 year old Raymond Smith on May 12^th.

SUSPECT ARRESTED IN SHOOTING THAT LEFT ONE MAN INJURED

Sikeston police say a man has been arrested in connection to a shooting that left one person injured on Monday.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, 20 year old Cornelius Perkins, of Sikeston, has been charged with first degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

According to Captain McMillen, a 26 year old Sikeston man was found by officers Monday with multiple gunshot wounds. It was last reported the victim was in stable condition.

JONESBORO MAN FACING SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGE

A Jonesboro man is facing a sexual assault charge.

According to KAIT, a judge on Tuesday found probable cause for the charge of second degree sexual assault for 34 year old Milan Carter.

The charge stems from an alleged incident with a teenage boy.

NAME RELEASED OF SUSPECT IN SIKESTON AREA SHOOTING

Authorities have released the name of a suspect in custody in connection to a shooting incident in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, a Bertrand resident said he and a female were leaving an area business when his ex-girlfriend pulled up next to him and shot at his vehicle. The woman reportedly followed after them and fired several more shots. No injuries were reported.

The victim identified the shooter as 27 year old Tawanna Pearson, of Cape Girardeau. She was arrested and has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon, domestic assault, property damage, first degree assault, and two counts of armed criminal action.

STEELE MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Steele man was arrested Tuesday morning on a felony drug charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old Cornelius Wilbourn is facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine. Wilbourn is also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

GROUNDBREAKING FOR NEW POPLAR BLUFF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL TO BE HELD THURSDAY

A groundbreaking for the new Poplar Bluff Senior High School will be held Thursday.

The ceremony will begin at 8 am at the current site of the 5^th and 6^th grade center.

The 135,000-square-foot addition to the facility will feature a new science wing, media center and centrally located commons area.

Facilities for band, Junior ROTC and athletics will be included on the site, allowing students to safely navigate after school activities without having to leave campus.

The near $27 million high school project is the chief component of the $50 million levy measure voters approved in April 2014.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A mobile office, featuring staff members of Untied States Senator Roy Blunt, will be held today in Poplar Bluff.

The meeting will be held from 10 am to 11 am at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office. During the mobile office, area residents will have the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

The work zone is located between County Road 221 and County Road 283.The road is scheduled to be closed today until 4:30 pm.

MISSOURI REVENUE COLLECTIONS UP 7.5 PERCENT

(AP) - The state budget director says Missouri's general revenue collections are up 7.5 percent compared with 2014.

Budget Director Linda Luebbering on Tuesday reported revenues are up to $7.87 billion this year. The state brought in $7.32 billion last fiscal year.

That's slightly down from the 7.7 percent year-to-date growth shown when revenues last were assessed through April.

Collections in May increased compared with collections this time last year. Those are up 5.7 percent, from roughly $614 million to nearly $650 million.

Corporate income and corporate franchise tax collections grew more than 44 percent last month.

June 2, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060215  

MAN IN CUSTODY AFTER ALLEGEDLY RUNNING OVER POLICE OFFICER WITH HIS VEHICLE

A New Madrid man is facing charges after he allegedly ran over a police officer with his vehicle.

According to authorities, 43 year old Ron Murphy was arrested on charges of assault on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.

Murphy allegedly tried to take off during a traffic stop and ran over the officer in the process. The officer suffered serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

MAN IN STABLE CONDITION FOLLOWING SIKESTON SHOOTING

A Sikeston man is in stable condition after being shot multiple times.

According to Captain McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, at around 10:40 pm officers received a report of a subject being shot. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a 26 year old Sikeston man with multiple gunshot wounds.

A resident nearby said they heard several gunshots and looked out to see the man stumbling in the street.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

TEENAGER ALLEGEDLY STABBED BY WOMAN

A woman is in custody in connection to an alleged stabbing of a teenager.

According to KFVS, 36 year old Emma Foster, of Cape Girardeau, was arrested following the incident Sunday at an area residence.

Foster, the teenager, and other people at the residence had been involved in an argument prior to the teenager being stabbed in the leg with a pair of scissors.

Foster was later taken into custody on charges of second degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED FOLLOWING BRIEF PURSUIT WITH AUTHORITIES

A sex offender who was being sought out of Cape Girardeau County is in custody.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, 27 year old Derek Kinder was arrested Monday afternoon following a brief foot pursuit.

A felony warrant was issued for Kinder’s arrest after an investigation discovered that his electronic GPS monitoring bracelet had been removed. The bracelet was found in a dumpster in Cape Girardeau.

Kinder was required to wear the device due to a prior conviction for first degree child molestation and sexual misconduct involving a child.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING SHOOTING INCIDENT IN SIKESTON

A woman is in custody following a report of shots being fired at a vehicle.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, a Bertrand resident said he and another female were leaving an area business in his vehicle when his ex-girlfriend pulled up next to him and shot at his vehicle.

The victim said he took off in his vehicle as his ex-girlfriend pursued and shot again at him. The victim said the female shot at him around five times, striking his vehicle twice. No one was injured during the incident.

The suspect later turned herself in to authorities. Her name is being held pending charges being filed.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD WEDNESDAY AT WAYNE COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be hosting a Mobile Office Wednesday in Greenville.

The event is scheduled from noon to 1 pm at the Wayne County Courthouse.

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

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST FUND-RAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Three Rivers Endowment Trust will host its third Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, June 19^th, at Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff.

The four-man scramble tournament will begin with check in and lunch at noon, followed by a shotgun start at 1 pm. All proceeds will go to benefit the Three Rivers Annual Fund, which helps to cover college expenses that tuition, fees, and state appropriations do not cover.

Registration is open for both participants and sponsors. Those interested should contact Brad Thielemier at 573-840-9077 to sign up.

OVER 250 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 250 were deemed to not be safe for students. 257 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.

1,150 buses were defective, which is described as having one or more defective items which pose no threat to the safety of students. Buses rated as "defective" may continue to be operated for the purpose of pupil transportation until repair is made.

School districts are allowed 10 days following initial inspection to repair identified defects before being re-inspected by Highway Patrol motor vehicle inspection personnel.

Over 10,500 buses were found to have no defective items.

June 1, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 060115  

ONE KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Jonesboro man was found dead at the scene of a wreck Sunday in Poinsett County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the vehicle of 66 year old Willie Turner Jr. ran off of an off ramp and hit an embankment.

Turner was dead when authorities found the vehicle shortly before 7 am Sunday.

WARRANT ISSUED FOR SEX OFFENDER IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

Authorities in Cape Girardeau County are searching for a sex offender.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, an investigation determined that 27 year old Derek Kinder’s electronic GPS monitoring bracelet was removed and eventually found in a dumpster in Cape Girardeau.

Kinder was required to wear the device due to a prior conviction for first degree child molestation and sexual misconduct involving a child.

A felony warrant has been issued for Kinder’s arrest. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office at 573-243-3551.

BLODGETT WOMAN REPORTEDLY LEAVES 9 MONTH OLD CHILD ALONE IN VEHICLE

Authorities say a Blodgett woman is facing charges after her 9 month old child was found unattended in a vehicle.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, on Friday deputies found the child sleeping in the vehicle. The vehicle was located in a metal garage with the driver side door open.

Walter says that the interior was swarming with mosquitoes and other insects.

Inside the residence, deputies located 24 year old Loan Tran highly intoxicated, lying on the floor, with her head in a trashcan. Tran did not know where her son was and told the deputies she had been “set up.”

Tran was arrested and has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child and possession of drug paraphernalia.

SIKESTON MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

A Sikeston man is facing multiple assault charges following an incident in Scott County.

According to authorities, 48 year old O’Neal Wimberley Jr. has been charged with second degree assault on a law enforcement officer and two counts of misdemeanor assault.

Wimberley reportedly accelerated his vehicle towards an officer and two other victims before stopping approximately three feet from them. He ignored multiple orders from the deputy to stop until the deputy pulled his firearm.

The deputy was there assisting in the repossession of farm equipment at Wimberley’s Farm.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES SUNDAY AFTERNOON

A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested on multiple charges Sunday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Candie Gause is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, synthetic marijuana; possession of a controlled substance for heroin and alprazolam; and driving while intoxicated, drugs.

Gause is also charged with possession of marijuana, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

SIKESTON COUPLE ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A warrant arrest turned into a drug bust for authorities in Scott County.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, deputies went to a residence in Sikeston on Saturday to attempt to serve an active warrant to 24 year old Joshua Powell. Also at the residence was Samantha Wilkinson.

Inside the residence, deputies located a box containing syringes, a burnt spoon, and 2 glass smoking pipes. The glass pipes both contained a white substance inside them. In a dresser, deputies found a light bulb that had been altered for smoking methamphetamine.

The glass pipes and light bulb tested positive for methamphetamine.

Powell and Wilkinson were placed under arrest and charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

THREE FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING EXECUTION OF SEARCH WARRANT

Three people are facing charges after authorities served a search warrant Friday morning.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, David P. Rains, John L. Groves, and Thomas G. Jordan were all arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance.

Rains is also charged with burglary, stealing, and knowingly burning.

FESTUS WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

A Festus woman was taken into custody Friday morning on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Dawn Wood was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and Xanax.

TENNESSEE TEENAGER FACING COCAINE CHARGE OUT OF NEW MADRID COUNTY

A teenager is facing multiple drug charges out of New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Charles Dillon, of Union City, Tennessee, was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance for cocaine and oxycodone, along with possession of under 35 grams of marijuana.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD TEAM WIN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

The Poplar Bluff High School girls’ track and field team are state champions.

The girls topped the team rankings of Missouri Class 4A at the state track and field competition over the weekend. The girls took first place in the team rankings over 18 events scored.

On the boys side, Poplar Bluff High School finished the competition 16^th out of 51 school participating.

GROUNDBREAKING FOR NEW POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO BE HELD TUESDAY

Groundbreaking for the new Poplar Bluff Middle School will be held Tuesday.

The ceremony will begin at 8 am at the current high school site.

The 50,000 square foot addition for grades 4 to 6 will be constructed, providing a facelift to the facility and tying A, B and D buildings together to abandon the open campus layout, enhancing the safety and security of students.

The $11 million in construction to create the new Middle School is part of a $50 million levy measure voters approved in April 2014.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO PROVIDE COURSES AT MINGO JOB CORPS

An agreement has been finalized between Three Rivers College and the Mingo Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center.

The agreement will see Three Rivers provide transitional education courses to participants in the Job Corps career technical training program.

The courses are designed to help students catch up to college level coursework, while allowing students to learn at their own pace. Three Rivers also works with the Mingo center to provide high school equivalency testing for students in the center’s GED program.

May 29, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052915  

HOUSE FIRE LEADS TO METH DISCOVERY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Jonesboro police reportedly found meth after responding to a house fire.

According to KAIT, officers found several plastic baggies containing a white crystalline substance at the location of a house fire Thursday morning. The substance tested positive for methamphetamine.

The homeowner, James Cowan, told police that the fire started when he was burning wire. Cowan was taken into custody for possession of meth and drug paraphernalia.

JACKSON MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO HOME INVASION ROBBERY

Jackson Police say that a man who was sought in connection to a home invasion robbery has been apprehended.

According to the Jackson Police Department, 23 year old Evan Tillman was arrested Thursday in Viburnum.

Authorities had been searching for Tillman following a May 20^th home invasion robbery. Two other men, 20 year old Tyler Glydewell and 19 year old Nicholas Rodgers, both of Jackson, were previously arrested in the case.

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MULTIPLE BANK ROBBERIES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man has been found guilty in the robbery of two banks in Southeast Missouri.

According to United States Attorney’s Office, 36 year old Tyrice Royston was found guilty Wednesday of bank robbery.

On March 17^th, 2014, Royston and another man reportedly entered an Essex bank, leaped over the counter and forced the tellers to the floor, securing the tellers’ wrists with zip ties. One of the tellers suffered a fracture to her vertebra during the attack.

The two men then opened the tellers’ cash drawers, placed the money in a bag and left the bank with $34,000.

On May 13^th, Royston was also found guilty of robbing a bank in Morley in May of 2014.

Royston faces a maximum punishment of 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for each of the two bank robberies. His sentencing was scheduled for August 25^th.

RUNAWAY JUVENILE RETURNS HOME

Jackson Police says that a teenager who ran away on Wednesday is home.

The Jackson Police Department reported Thursday night the 16 year old girl has returned home.

The girl had last been seen Wednesday morning leaving the Jackson High School.

GROUNDBREAKING SET FOR NEW PEPSI MIDAMERICA FACILITY

A Groundbreaking ceremony has been scheduled for next week for a new facility for Pepsi MidAmerica.

The Pepsi Depot in Cape Girardeau is expected to bring over 70 jobs to the region when it opens in the fall or winter. The groundbreaking will be held at 10 am on Wednesday, June 3^rd.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY IN VAN BUREN

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office on Wednesday, June 3^rd.

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

The Mobile Office will be held from 2 to 3 pm at the Float Stream Restaurant in Van Buren.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE DRAMA CAMP TO BE HELD IN JULY

Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be the location of the 23^rd annual children's theatre drama camp coming up in July.

The camp for students entering second through eighth grades and will be held from July 27^th to the 31^st.

Campers will participate in activities teaching acting, improvisation, dance, theatre games, stage makeup, creative dramatics, musical theatre and reader’s theatre.

The camp will culminate in a performance at 11 am Friday, August 8, at Poplar Bluff High School.

The camp costs $60, with the deadline to register being July 17^th. Registration forms are available by visiting the Tinnin Center office. For more information, call 573-840-9648.

POPLAR BLUFF MUNICIPAL LIBRARIES CHILDREN’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM BEGINS THIS WEEKEND

The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library will be starting their 2015 Children’s Summer Reading Program this weekend.

The program “Every Hero has a Story” will run through June and July. Children and young adults between the ages of 3 to 17 can participate and earn a chance to win a prize with every completed Reading Log they turn in.

Grand prizes include three Kindle Fire tablets and three bicycles.

The free reading program will also feature multiple events and performers. For more information, call the library at 573-686-8639.

FREE ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING PROGRAM TO BE HELD AT DEXTER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A free entrepreneurial training program will be held starting next month in Dexter.

The class, Fast Trac® Growth Venture, is a comprehensive series

of workshops and programs to help current business owners sharpen their skills to create, manage and grow successful businesses.

The ten session class starts on Thursday, June 18th and goes for ten weeks. The class will be held at the Dexter Chamber of Commerce. To register, call 573-243-3581 by June 16^th.

HAZARDOUS MOVING VEHICLE OPERATION TO BE HELD IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be conducting a hazardous moving vehicle operation next month in Southeast Missouri.

The operations will be conducted in Butler County by the Missouri State Highway Patrol in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

Specific dates were not given for the operation; however Captain George Ridens says it will occur sometime in June.

May 28, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052815  

JACKSON POLICE SEEKING HELP IN FINDING RUNAWAY JUVENILE

Jackson Police are seeking the public’s help in finding a runaway juvenile.

The Jackson Police Department says 16 year old Daphne M. Larson was last seen Wednesday leaving the Jackson High School at around 11 am.

Police say Larson may be with 17 year old Michael Pruitt. Anyone with information on Larson’s whereabouts is asked to your local law enforcement agency or the Jackson Police Department at 573-243-3151.

A picture of Larson is available on our Facebook page.

MAN ARRESTED ON INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER CHARGE FOLLOWING FATAL WRECK

An Ellsinore man has died and another is facing charges following a Wednesday evening wreck in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Aaron Freeman was driving on County Road 127, near Van Buren, when his vehicle travelled off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

A passenger in the vehicle, 51 year old James Crouch, was partial ejected during the wreck. He was later pronounced dead. A second passenger suffered minor injuries.

Shortly after the wreck, Freeman was arrested on charges of involuntary manslaughter and driving while intoxicated.

WOMAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO MONDAY SHOOTING

A woman is in custody in connection to the shooting death of Nelson McCullough.

According to KAIT, 21 year old Tonisha Mitchell, of Jonesboro, turned herself in to police Wednesday. Earlier this week, a capital murder warrant was issued for Mitchell in the shooting death of McCullough.

A second suspect, 18 year old Ladarius Lee, of Forrest City, is also in custody.

MULTI MONTH INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF FREMONT MAN

A multi month investigation in Carter County has resulted in the arrest of a Fremont man.

41 year old Johnny Hardwick is facing charges of forcible rape, child molestation, incest, and statutory sodomy.

Hardwick was taken into custody on Tuesday.

SCOTT CITY MAN ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER

A Scott City man is facing charges for allegedly failing to register as a sex offender.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, deputies recently learned that 22 year old Davey Mayfield had been living at a residence where he was not registered.

Mayfield was arrested on a felony charge of failing to register as a sex offender.

MAN WANTED IN ALABAMA ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man wanted out of Alabama has been apprehended in Northeast Arkansas.

Stephen Brickey was indicted earlier this year on charges of rape, sexual assault, and sodomy in Mobile County, Alabama according to KAIT.

Brickey was arrested Wednesday in Paragould.

SIKESTON MAN ACCUSED OF ILLEGALLY PRACTICING LAW

(AP) - A southeast Missouri man faces federal fraud charges linked to what prosecutors say was his practicing of law even though he wasn't a licensed attorney.

A grand jury in St. Louis has indicted 50 year old James Michael Arnold, of Sikeston, on five felony counts of mail fraud. He's also charged with three counts of failure to file tax returns and two counts of aggravated identity theft.

Federal prosecutors say Arnold graduated from law school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City in 1992. But he never passed the Missouri Bar Examination and was never licensed to practice law in Missouri.

Authorities say that over a four-year span to January 2014, he defrauded more than $350,000 as an illegal attorney.

JONESBORO MAN CONVICTED OF BATTERY CHARGE

A Jonesboro man has been sentenced to 35 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections on a battery charge.

According to Scott Ellington, Prosecuting Attorney for the Second Judicial District of Arkansas, 31 year old Paul Suchey Jr. was convicted Wednesday of first degree battery.

The charge stems from an incident in September of 2013 where a four month old child suffered a depressed skull fracture.

Suchey was questioned and stated that the child may have hit his knee while being rocked, then later stated the child may have been injured after accidentally hitting the doorframe of the bedroom. Suchey would not elaborate further and was arrested.

The child has recovered from the injuries.

TWO ARRESTED ON MARIJUANA CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two Dexter residents are facing a marijuana charge following their arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jason Teague and 37 year old Dusty Hurt were each arrested shortly before noon Wednesday on a felony charge of produce/cultivate marijuana.

Teague was also charged with felony making terrorist threats.

ANNAPOLIS STUDENT TO COMPETE IN NATIONAL SPELLING BEE SEMIFINALS TODAY

An Annapolis student will be competing today at the semifinals for the 2015 Scripps National Spelling Bee.

11 year old River Blount is one of 49 students to advance past the preliminary rounds this week. Blount is a 6^th grader at Pineywoods Christian Academy.

The semifinals will be broadcast today from 9 am to noon on ESPN2.

MISSOURI HOUSE INTERN POLICY UNDER REVIEW FOLLOWING SCANDAL

(AP) - A group has been formed to review the Missouri House's intern policy after the former speaker admitted to exchanging sexually suggestive texts with an intern.

House Speaker Todd Richardson of Poplar Bluff said Wednesday that the working group is vetting current policy. He said members of the House clerk's staff, legislative researchers, lawmakers and others will compare that with other states' policies.

Richardson also asked the group to reach out to Missouri universities with internship programs at the Capitol for feedback.

Former House Speaker John Diehl resigned the last day of session May 15^th after admitting to texting a 19 year old intern. Richardson was elected that day to replace Diehl.

Richardson said a review of the current policy would be one of his top priorities after the session ended.

May 27, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052715  

WARRANT ISSUED FOR WOMAN IN CONNECTION TO FATAL JONESBORO SHOOTING

Authorities in Jonesboro are searching for a woman in the shooting death of Nelson McCullough.

According to KAIT, a capital murder warrant has been issued for 21 year old Tonisha Mitchell, of Jonesboro. McCullough died Monday following the shooting at an area residence.

Additional arrests are anticipated in the case. Anyone who has information on Mitchell’s location is asked to contact the Jonesboro Police Department.

MAN ACCUSED IN PARMA SHOOTING

(AP) - A 21 year old man is jailed without bond after being accused in the shooting death of a convenience store clerk in his southeastern Missouri hometown.

New Madrid County prosecutors have charged Deion Martin, of Parma, with one count each of first degree murder and first degree robbery, and two counts of armed criminal action.

Investigators allege Martin shot 59 year old Brenda Smith in the head May 18^th at the D and L One Stop in Parma when she refused to open the store's safe. Smith later died at a hospital.

Martin was arrested Sunday in the St. Louis area after police said they got a tip about his whereabouts.

SIKESTON MAN ACCUSED OF STRANGLING AND THREATENING TO KILL WOMAN

A Sikeston man is facing charges after a woman told police that he strangled and threatened to kill her.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 47 year old Michael Myers has been charged with second degree domestic assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

The victim told police that Myers had accused her of cheating before he tried to strangler her. Myers also allegedly got a shotgun, loaded one live round in the chamber, and told the victim he was going to kill her and himself.

After speaking with another person, Myers unloaded the firearm and went outside to wait for law enforcement.

The victim reportedly had contusions to her right arm and under her chin. She also had swelling and a laceration to her lower lip, along with a laceration to her lower left leg.

JACKSON POLICE SEARCHING FOR PERSON OF INTEREST IN ROBBERY

Police in Jackson are searching for a person of interest in a robbery case.

Police are looking for 23 year old Evan Tillman, of Jackson, in connection to a home invasion robbery that was reported on May 20^th.

Jackson Police say Tillman should be considered armed and dangerous and citizens should alert local law enforcement should he be located. A picture of Tillman is available on our Facebook page.

Two other men were arrested in connection to the case last week.

HAYWOOD CITY MAN CHARGED WITH BURGLARY AND STEALING

A Haywood City man has been charged in connection to an incident at an area residence.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that the victim told a deputy that her residence was broken into and someone stole

over $1,000 in stereo equipment and loose change.

A witness told the victim that 20 year old Darion Gipson had stolen the items and taken them to his grandmother’s house.  The witness reportedly saw Gipson with the stolen items at the house.

Gipson was taken into custody and has been charged with second degree burglary, stealing over $500, and misdemeanor property damage.

SIKESTON OFFICIALS SEARCHING FOR TWO SUSPECTS IN ALLEGED THEFT

Officials in Sikeston are searching for two suspects in connection to an alleged theft at an area storage shed.

A video released Tuesday by the Sikeston Department of Public Safety shows the two suspects, along with a vehicle they were in. The video is available on our facebook page.

Anyone who can help identify the suspects in the video is asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

EAST PRAIRIE MAN CHARGED WITH ANIMAL ABUSE

An East Prairie man has been arrested following an incident where a canine was allegedly beat with a plunger.

According to the East Prairie Police Department, an officer reported that a canine appeared to have a laceration on its head, was not able to use any of his limbs and appeared to be paralyzed.

A preliminary report from a vet found that the animal’s injuries were consistent with “blunt force trauma to the head causing bleeding or swelling of the brain and possible trauma to the abdomen.”

29 year old Timothy Boyer II was arrested and charged with animal abuse.

JACKSON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

A Jackson man is facing drug related charges following his arrest Tuesday morning in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Travis Licare was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia; and driving while intoxicated, aggravated offender.

WAPPAPELLO MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ATV WRECK

A Wappapello man has serious injuries in connection to an ATV wreck Tuesday.

According to the Highway Patrol, 33 year old Andy Gibney was driving an ATV that overturned at a Possum Creek Boat Ramp in Wayne County. Gibney, who was allegedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck.

He was taken by air to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ARKANSAS WEIGHING COMBINING 2 COURTHOUSES

(AP) - Some elected officials in a northeast Arkansas county seek the consolidation of two old courthouses amid increasing maintenance costs.

The Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that the dual courthouse system was established nearly a century ago in Mississippi County, with one facility in Osceola and another in Blytheville, to make access to government services easier for residents.

County officials are discussing building a new courthouse and combining the operations.

The county judge says preliminary plans call for the construction of a 55,000-square foot, three-story building for more than $15.5 million. He says it's no longer feasible to have two courthouses.

Mississippi County is one of 10 Arkansas counties with two seats.

May 26, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052615  

ARREST MADE IN FATAL PARMA SHOOTING

An arrest has been made in connection to the shooting of a Parma woman at an area business.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, the identity of the arrestee has not been released due to a pending review by the prosecuting attorney.

59 year old Brenda Smith was shot and killed during the robbery of a Parma business last week.

FOUR SHOOTING INCIDENTS REPORTED IN JONESBORO OVER HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting during a home invasion in northeast Arkansas.

The Jonesboro Police Department told KAIT that officers found the victim lying on the floor inside the home on Monday afternoon. He was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The victim was identified as 28 year old Nelson McCullough.

Police say other people were in the home at the time of the shooting. They say two men entered the home, shot the victim and then fled in a gray car.

No arrests have been reported. Police say they don't currently have any suspects in the slaying.

The killing is the fourth reported shooting in Jonesboro during the Memorial Day weekend but police say they don't believe the incidents are related. The other shootings resulted in a combined one death and three injuries.

ADVANCE MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

One fatality has been reported from a single vehicle wreck Saturday night in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Albert Begley, of Advance, was driving on Route K, near Gordonville, when his vehicle travelled off the road, became airborne and struck a creek embankment.

He was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

PARAGOULD WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Paragould woman is dead following a wreck Friday morning in Poinsett County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, a vehicle crashed into a tree off of Highway 63. The driver of the vehicle, 30 year old Amber Leeann Cooper was pronounced dead at the scene.

MOTORCYCLE DRIVER KILLED IN MONDAY NIGHT COLLISION

A motorcycle driver was killed Monday night in a collision in Jonesboro.

According to KAIT, the wreck occurred when a vehicle turned into the path of the motorcycle.

The driver of the motorcycle, 19 year old Noah Walker, was pronounced dead at the scene.

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED, FOLLOWING WRECK IN MADISON COUNTY

One person is dead, while another has minor injuries in connection to a wreck Saturday in Madison County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred north of Fredericktown when a vehicle failed to negotiate a curve and crossed into the path of another vehicle.

The driver of the first vehicle, 49 year old George Jenkins, of Fredericktown, was later pronounced dead at an area hospital. The driver of the second vehicle had minor injuries.

CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE INVESTIGATING SEXUALLY CHARGED COMMENTS MADE TO 13 YEAR OLD

Authorities in Caruthersville are investigating a report of sexually charged comments being made to a teenager.

According to Caruthersville police, on Saturday the victim’s mother told authorities that her 13 year old daughter was walking home when she was approached by a black male. The man allegedly made a sexually charged comment towards the girl before leaving in a dark color vehicle.

The incident is under investigation.

NEW HAMBURG MAN CHARGED WITH DOMESTIC ASSAULT

Authorities in Scott County say a New Hamburg man was recently arrested on a domestic assault charge.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that a woman told authorities that she had been assaulted by her boyfriend, 22 year old Corey Crump.

The victim says Crump had thrown her into a glass door, mirror, and wall.

The victim had bruising to her face, a laceration to her elbow and knee, and several scratches to her back.

Crump was arrested and charged with second degree domestic assault.

FISK WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A Fisk woman was arrested on multiple drug charges Sunday afternoon in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Jessica Sadler is facing charges of possession of a     controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of marijuana; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN FACING POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE CHARGES

A Caruthersville man is facing drug charges out of New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 27 year old Jake McCall was arrested Sunday on felony possession with intent to distribute charges for K2 and methamphetamine.

LAWMAKERS FAIL TO RAMP UP ETHICS LAWS FOR MISSOURI OFFICIALS

The Missouri Legislature once again has failed to pass bills aimed at clamping down on ethics laws considered some of the loosest in the nation.

A bill aimed at preventing lawmakers from leaving office and immediately becoming lobbyist failed to pass before the May 15^th legislative deadline.

The breakdown of this year's ethics proposals means Missouri for at least another year will remain the only state with the trio of unlimited campaign contributions, uncapped lobbyist gifts and no laws limiting lawmakers from becoming lobbyists.

While legislative leaders say they'll try again next session, some residents are making moves to sidestep the Legislature.

Three initiative petitions to institute campaign contribution limits have so far been filed. Bills for donation caps did not progress in the General Assembly this year.

LAWMAKERS FAIL TO RAMP UP ETHICS LAWS FOR MISSOURI OFFICIALS

The Missouri Legislature once again has failed to pass bills aimed at clamping down on ethics laws considered some of the loosest in the nation.

A bill aimed at preventing lawmakers from leaving office and immediately becoming lobbyist failed to pass before the May 15^th legislative deadline.

The breakdown of this year's ethics proposals means Missouri for at least another year will remain the only state with the trio of unlimited campaign contributions, uncapped lobbyist gifts and no laws limiting lawmakers from becoming lobbyists.

While legislative leaders say they'll try again next session, some residents are making moves to sidestep the Legislature.

Three initiative petitions to institute campaign contribution limits have so far been filed. Bills for donation caps did not progress in the General Assembly this year.

May 22, 2015

RIVER  RADIO NEWS 052215  

ARREST MADE IN BLYTHEVILLE SHOOTING

A teenager has been charged with first degree murder in connection to the death of another teen earlier this week.

According to authorities, 18 year old Javander Williams, of Blytheville, was arrested for the shooting death of 17 year old Dewaun Miller.

The shooting occurred Monday night in Blytheville.

MANHUNT STARTED IN CONNECTION TO HOME INVASION ROBBERY IN JACKSON

Cape Girardeau authorities say a manhunt was started Thursday morning following a reported home invasion robbery in Jackson.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, sheriff's deputies and area law enforcement are searching for a suspect that was possibly involved in the robbery.

The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6 feet tall, and weighing 200 pounds with shoulder length dread lock braids and all dark or black clothing. The suspect could possibly be armed with a handgun.

Another suspect was taken into custody Thursday morning.

Anyone with information about the case should call 573-243-3551.

MAN CHARGED FOR HIT AND RUN THAT INJURED CAPE GIRARDEAU STUDENT

A Cape Girardeau man has been charged following an alleged hit and run incident earlier this week.

According to authorities, 23 year old Adam Mouser is facing charges of leaving the scene and driving while suspended.

The charges stem from an incident where a junior high student was injured after being hit by a car while crossing a street.

PARMA WOMAN FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGE

Authorities say a Parma woman is facing a felony drug charge out of New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Krystal Dockery was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

The arrest report did not specify what the controlled substance was.

DES ARC MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

A Des Arc man is facing multiple drug related charges following his arrest Thursday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Jamie Wyatt was taken into custody on charges of possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone; possession of under 35 grams of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

JONESBORO COMPANY ANNOUNCES $12 MILLION EXPANSION

Hytrol Conveyor Co. in Jonesboro has announced plans for a $12 million expansion that will include at least 36 new jobs.

The company said in a news release Thursday that the project includes a 62,000-square-foot expansion of its manufacturing facility, a new paint system, lasers, brake presses and computerized numerical control equipment.

Hytrol designs and manufactures advanced conveyor systems and currently has about 800 employees.

Hytrol Vice President Chris Glenn said the new employees are being hired and plans call for breaking ground on the project within two weeks. The project is expected to be complete in eight months.

ARTICULATION AGREEMENT SIGNED BETWEEN THREE RIVERS COLLEGE AND MURRAY STATE

Agriculture students at Three Rivers College will now have the opportunity to easily transfer to Murray State University.

Three Rivers and Murray State have finalized an articulation agreement that will allow students in Three Rivers’ Agriculture program to seamlessly transfer to several of the degree programs in Murray State’s Hutson School of Agriculture.

The agreement allows students who complete an Associate of Arts Degree in Agriculture at Three Rivers to transfer their college credits into one of seven agriculture bachelor’s degree programs at Murray State.

Murray State programs specified in the transfer agreement are Agriculture Education, Agricultural Systems Technology, Agriscience Technology, Agribusiness, Agronomy, Animal/Equine Science, and Horticulture.

USDA GRANTS, LOANS, ANNOUNCED FOR NORTHEAST ARKANSAS TOWNS

Arkansas' U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Representative Rick Crawford have announced two U.S. Department of Agriculture grants and one loan to three communities in northeast Arkansas.

The three said Thursday that Cotter and McCrory will receive USDA rural development grants and Brinkley will receive a rural development loan.

Cotter will receive a total of $8,800 to purchase a police vehicle and equipment while McCrory is being awarded $17,000 for a fire department vehicle and equipment.

Brinkley will receive a loan of more than $1.3 million to improve the city's wastewater treatment plant.

MISSOURI UNEMPLOYMENT RATE SLIGHTLY UP

Missouri's unemployment rate increased slightly to 5.7 percent last month while the economy lost several thousand jobs.

The state Department of Economic Development released data this week showing the seasonally adjusted jobless rate increased from 5.6 percent in March.

Unemployment fell to 5.4 percent in December - its lowest rate since April 2008. That rate has gone up slightly since January, although the jobless rate in April still was slightly lower than at the same time last year.

Data show the state also lost about 5,700 jobs in April.

May 21, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 052115  

TWO KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

Two Mountain View, Arkansas residents died Wednesday from injuries they received in a two vehicle wreck.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 26 year old Matthew Mealer lost control and struck another vehicle.

Mealer, along with a passenger in his vehicle 26 year old Owen McCullough, were killed in the wreck.

The driver of the second vehicle suffered undisclosed injuries.

JONESBORO MAN REPORTEDLY ADMITS TO VIEWING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Jonesboro man reportedly admitted to authorities that he viewed and saved images of child pornography.

According to KAIT, 28 year old Joshua Hull was arrested on Tuesday.

Hull also allegedly uploaded images of suspected child pornography to the internet.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES

Two East Prairie residents are facing drug related charges.

32 year old Ronnie Brawner Jr. was arrested Tuesday and is facing charges, including possession of a controlled substance, distribution of a controlled substance near a school, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

33 year old Rachel Myers was also arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Authorities say the arrests come after an investigation into meth allegedly being delivered and sold from a home where they both lived.

DEADLINE APPROACHING TO REGISTER FOR ROBOTICS SUMMER PROGRAM

The deadline is quickly approaching to register your child for the robotics summer day program at Butler County University of Missouri Extension.

During the program on June 1^st, youth will learn the basic concepts related to robotic subsystems such as structure, power, sensors, control and programming.

To register, call 573-686-8064. The deadline to register is May 27^th and the program costs $5.

POPLAR BLUFF HEAD START ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR

Poplar Bluff Head Start is accepting applications for the 2015/2016 school year.

The child must be 3 or 4 years old by July 31^st to be eligible. If you would like more information, call 785-2372.

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL TO PARTICIPATE IN 20 MILE TROOPER PROJECT

Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol will be out in force over the Memorial Day Holiday weekend.

Captain George Ridens tells us that troopers will be participating in the statewide 20-Mile Trooper project during the peak travel periods on Friday, May 22^nd, and Monday, May 25^th.

As a part of the project, troopers will be assigned 20 mile stretches of Interstate 55 and other designated roadways. Ridens says troopers will be tasked with vigorously enforcing all traffic laws and helping motorists in need of assistance.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS SEND FEWER TAX CHANGES TO GOVERNOR NIXON

The Republican-controlled Missouri Legislature has sent several small tweaks to the state's tax code to Democratic Governor Jay Nixon this session.

Senator Will Kraus, of Lee's Summit, said Wednesday it had been a successful session in limiting overreach by the state's Department of Revenue.

Last year, Nixon vetoed several large bills that included costly provisions that did not cross the finish line this session after legislation stalled in the Senate in the final week.

Nixon criticized exemptions for commercial laundries, gyms and yoga studios, and food preparation at grocery stores, as special interest giveaways.

Of those, only the exemption for commercial laundries got to his desk again.

A measure to require notification of businesses when there's a change in tax policy also will get a second shot at becoming law.

MISSOURI SUPREME COURT SETS EXECUTION DATE FOR DAVID ZINK

The Missouri Supreme Court has set an execution date of July 14^th for David Zink, convicted of abducted and killing a southwest Missouri woman in 2001.

The court set the date Wednesday for Zink, who is 56. Missouri has executed three men so far this year, and Richard Strong is scheduled to die June 9^th.

Zink killed 19 year old Amanda Morton after rear-ending her car on Interstate 44 near her hometown of Stafford.

He defended himself at his own murder trial, then appealed on grounds that the judge shouldn't have allowed him to do so.

At trial, he tried unsuccessfully to win a voluntary manslaughter verdict by claiming that he didn't deliberate before killing Morton.

May 20, 2015

SUSPECT ARRESTED ON ARSON CHARGE IN STEELE

One person has been arrested on an arson charge in Steele.

According to Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield, on Saturday May 16th, the police and fire departments responded to a house fire on South Walnut Street.

The fire was extinguished and Stanfield says that it appeared that the fire had been deliberately set.

An investigation led to the questioning of a 46 year old man. The man admitted to officers that he deliberately set the home on fire.

The suspect, whose name was not released, was charged with 2nd degree arson.

TEENAGER KILLED IN BLYTHEVILLE SHOOTING

A Blytheville teenager is dead following a shooting Monday Night.

According to the Blytheville Courier News, officers found 17 year old Dewaun Miller unresponsive after receiving a report that somebody had been shot.

Miller later died at an area hospital.

Two people were detained for questioning.

BLOOMFIELD MAN SENTENCED ON DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGE

A Bloomfield man has been sentenced on a felony drug trafficking charge.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, Stanley Clark pled guilty Tuesday to felony trafficking in drugs (methamphetamine) – 2nd degree.

After accepting the plea, Scott County Circuit Judge David Dolan sentenced Clark to 12 years imprisonment in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

ONE PERSON IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO HIT AND RUN IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

One person has been taken into custody following an alleged hit and run Tuesday in Cape Girardeau.

According to authorities, a junior high student was hit by a vehicle while she was crossing a street near a Cape Girardeau school.

The student suffered non-life threatening injuries.

The name of the person in custody was not released.

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT VETERANS WALL IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Poplar Bluff Veterans Council will be hosting the annual Memorial Day Ceremony Monday at the Veterans Wall in front of the Black River Coliseum.

The ceremony, which will begin at 11 am, will feature keynote speaker, Mr. Bob Alsup, a World War II veteran who served in Germany during “The Battle of the Bulge.”

The ceremony is open to the public and all are invited to attend.

AUTHORITIES RELEASE IDENTITIES OF THOSE INVOLVED IN CHARLESTON SHOOTING

Charleston authorities have released the identities of two people who were involved in a shooting on Monday.

According to authorities, 24 year old Daymon Caldwell and 23 year old Anthony Horton were injured in the shooting.

The incident is under investigation.

MOTORISTS ASKED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR MOWERS

Missouri motorists are asked to be careful when approaching mowers along Missouri’s highways.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, major and minor routes will be mowed at least three times through the end of October. On rural two-lane roads, crews may use a protective "follow" truck to alert motorists they are approaching slow-moving mowers.

Motorists are asked to be alert for trucks and tractors with lights flashing and moving slowly, around 2 to 5 mph. When you approach one of these vehicles, slow down and focus on the road ahead of you.

Also, be prepared to stop or drive very slowly behind a "follow" truck, especially approaching a hill or curve on a two-lane road.

LONG TERM ROAD PROJECT BEGINS TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County is closed so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs.

During the repairs traffic is being shifted to southbound I-55 south of Hayti from Route U to Route 84.

Drivers can expect head-to-head traffic in this area and should use caution.

Work began this morning at 12 am and the road is scheduled to reopen on Thursday, October 1st at 5 pm.

May 19, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051915  

CAMPBELL MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF ROBBERY

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are searching for a man they say was involved in a home invasion and robbery last week.

Police are looking for 38 year old Kristopher Storey, of Campbell. On May 14^th, somebody allegedly kicked in the door of a residence on Bearden Street. The suspect then tied up a woman, and held her and her two children in a bathroom.

Two other people have been taken into custody in connection to the incident:  27 year old Thomas Passley III, of Dexter and 24 year old Justin Muller, of Campbell.

Anyone with information on Storey’s location is asked to call Poplar Bluff Police at 573-785-5776.

FATAL SHOOTING DURING PARMA ROBBERY

A shooting during a robbery in Parma yesterday morning has left one woman dead.

Authorities say the incident happened shortly after 5:30 am at D & L One Stop, when an armed male entered the store and demanded that a female employee open the business’ safe.

The woman refused and the suspect shot her in the head. He then turned the gun toward a second employee, who told him she didn’t know how to open the safe. The suspect then took several items and fled the scene.

The victim has been identified as 59 year old Brenda Smith, of Parma.

Anyone with any information about this crime is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office at 573-748-2516.  Anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the offender can be eligible for a $25,000 reward.

The owners of the business say it is the tenth time the store has been robbed in ten years. They say they will be closing the store.

MAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION TO STEELE SHOOTING

A Steele man is facing charges in connection to a shooting.

According to KFVS, the victim, a 46 year old man, was shot in the chest. The victim was in serious condition and was taken to an area hospital.

45 year old Billy Joe Amerson was arrested on charges of first degree assault and armed criminal action. The shooting is under investigation.

CAPE POLICE RELEASE DETAILS ABOUT SHOOTING

The Cape Girardeau Police Department has released more information about a shooting that took place Sunday evening.

According to Corporal Darin Hickey, the shooting occurred around 6 pm at Ranney Park.

Upon arrival on the scene, officers discovered a male victim who had sustained gunshot wounds to his lower abdomen and leg. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of serious, but non-life threatening injuries.

Hickey says 23 year old Dante L. Criddle, of Cape Girardeau, was taken into custody in connection to the shooting. Criddle has been charged with first degree felony assault and felony armed criminal action.

POLICE INVESTIGATING CHARLESTON SHOOTING

Police in Charleston are investigating a shooting that occurred last night.

Authorities say two people were injured in the shooting and it appeared that they were shooting at each other.

They both reportedly appeared to suffer non life threatening injuries. The incident occurred on Elm Street near the Bowden Civic Center.

The incident is under investigation.

ANNISTON MAN FACING BURGLARY AND DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGES

An Anniston man is facing charges following his arrest over the weekend.

According to authorities, 23 year old Michael Whybark was arrested on charges of first degree burglary, second degree domestic assault, and first degree property damage.

The charges reportedly stem from an incident at a Mississippi County residence last week. Whybark allegedly entered the residence without permission, assaulted a woman and damaged property.

MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM TO BE HELD AT MISSOURI STATE VETERANS CEMETERY AT BLOOMFIELD

A US Army Veteran will be the keynote speaker for the Memorial Day program at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield.

The keynote speaker will be John Michael Mowrer, who is a Kennett Municipal Judge and City Attorney for Campbell and Malden.

The program will begin at 1 pm at the Committal Shelter Plaza at the cemetery. Families and friends of those interred, as well as the general public, are invited to attend to help honor all veterans.

DRIVERS URGED TO USE CAUTION NEAR 100 MILE YARD SALE

With Memorial Day less than a week away, it is time for the 100 mile yard sale.

The yard sale will be along Missouri Highway 25, from Jackson to Kennett. The event is scheduled to begin on Thursday.

The Missouri Department of Transportation wants to remind motorists to be cautious during the yard sale. Be alert for sudden stops and keep a look out for pedestrian traffic.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR A PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route 51 in Butler County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform a pipe replacement.

The work zone will be located between County Roads 659 and 663.

Work will performed from 8 am to 3 pm.

WAYNE COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS

A Wayne County road is closed through tomorrow evening for bridge repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, southbound Route 67 is closed at the bridge located over the St. Francois River, near Greenville.

Traffic is being shifted to the northbound lanes from Route A to Business 67 with a 12 foot width restriction in place. The structure is scheduled to reopen at 6 pm Wednesday.

MISSOURI GOP LAWMAKERS USE NUMBERS TO CUT SOCIAL SAFETY NET

(AP) - Missouri's Republican-controlled Legislature has used overwhelming numbers to push through cuts to the state social safety net despite Democratic opposition.

GOP lawmakers this session succeeded in reducing the number of weeks in available jobless and welfare benefits. Supporters say that could spur Missourians to be more self-sufficient and more quickly find work.

Republicans also say a right-to-work measure that passed last week could encourage businesses to open in the state and might mean more jobs.

But Democrats have slammed those bills as hurting low-income families and the middle class.

Democratic Senator Jamilah Nasheed of St. Louis described work by the GOP this legislative session as an "all-out attack on the poor."

Efforts by Democrats this session to expand eligibility for Medicaid health care for low-income adults also failed.

May 18, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051815  

WOMAN KILLED WHEN TREE FALLS ON HER VEHICLE

A woman reportedly died Friday after a tree fell on her vehicle.

According to KFVS, 42 year old Tara Chipman, of Hayti, was killed at the Hayti City Park when the tree fell on the vehicle.

It was not clear what caused the tree to fall.

BUTLER COUNTY ESCAPEE BACK IN CUSTODY

An inmate who escaped from custody in Butler County has been arrested.

According to the Daily American Republic, 25 year old Jeremy Hicks, of Fisk, was arrested on Thursday at a Broseley area residence.

Hicks had escaped from custody on May 7th, while he was working as a trustee.

Three others were also arrested for allegedly aiding Hicks after he escaped.

ONE ARRESTED IN SHOOTING AT CAPE GIRARDEAU PARK

A man was reportedly shot in the leg Sunday evening at a Cape Girardeau park.

According to authorities, the victim suffered non-life threatening injuries in the shooting.

A suspect was later arrested at around 8 pm. The names of the suspect and victim have not been available.

SUSPECT ARRESTED IN ALLEGED ABDUCTION

A suspect is in custody in connection to an abduction last week in Cape Girardeau.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, 43 year old Jeffrey Lazier, of Coal City, Illinois, was arrested Friday afternoon.

Lazier was arrested following an investigation into an alleged adult abduction on May 12^th. The victim told authorities she was physically forced from her vehicle into a red extended cab pick-up truck.

The female says she was then driven to various locations and sexually assaulted before she managed to escape in Effingham, Illinois.

Fingerprints that had been lifted from the victim’s vehicle checked to Lazier. He is being held on a warrant out of Cape Girardeau County for first degree robbery, kidnapping, armed criminal action, first degree sodomy, and first degree sexual abuse.

MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody shortly before 1 am Sunday morning on gun and drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Pedro Pineiro is facing felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon; possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; resisting arrest by fleeing; and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Pineiro is also charged with unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and careless and imprudent driving.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested early Sunday morning on multiple drug charges in Butler County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 23 year old Dora Rosales is facing felony possession of a controlled substance charges for methamphetamine, oxycodone, and tramadol.

Rosales is also charged with unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

DES ARC WOMAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON MULTIPLE CHARGES

A Des Arc woman is facing multiple charges following her arrest Friday afternoon in Butler County.

According to authorities, 32 year old Leslie Patterson is charged with possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and hydrochloride, tampering with a motor vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

REDMOND BEACH OPENING DELAYED DUE TO ELEVATED WATER LEVELS

A Wappapello Lake beach has missed its scheduled opening date due to high water levels.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Redman Beach was set to open on Friday, however elevated lake levels forced the beach to remain closed. The beach will open when conditions allow.

All of the campgrounds are open as well, however a few campsites remain closed because of the water levels.

THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES TO PARTICIPATE IN CLICK IT OR TICKET CAMPAIGN

Three Southeast Missouri Counties will be participating in a seat belt use campaign beginning today.

According to Captain George Ridens, of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers will conduct “Click It or Ticket” enforcement operations in Cape Girardeau, Pemiscot, and Stoddard counties.

The operations are scheduled to continue through May 31^st.

THREE WEEK ROAD PROJECT BEGINS TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route J in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as contractor crews build new sidewalks and install box culverts.

Work will be performed through Friday, June 5 from 7 am to 5 pm daily.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Reed Street to Route AA.

ROAD CREWS TO BEGIN OVER MONTH LONG PROJECT TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

North and Southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced for over a month as Arkansas Department of Transportation builds a crossover in the median.

The work zone will start at the Pemiscot County line and end just south of Route O.

Weather permitting, work will be performed Monday, May 18 through Tuesday, June 30.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON I-155 RAMP IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Contractor crews will be in Pemiscot County this week for pavement repairs on a northbound I-155 ramp.

During the repairs, the ramp from I-155 north to I-55 south at exit 1A will be reduced to one lane with a 9-foot width restriction.

Work is scheduled to be done from 6 am to 6:30 pm daily through Wednesday.

May 15, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051515  

VEHICLE POSSIBLY INVOLVED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU WOMAN’S ABDUCTION SPOTTED IN ILLINOIS

A vehicle that was possibly used in a Cape Girardeau adult abduction has been spotted in Anna, Illinois.

The victim told police that she was sitting in her car in South County Park on May 12^th, when a man pulled her from her car and forced her into a red extended cab pickup truck. She said she was able to escape in Effingham, Illinois at around 6 pm.

The FBI has released additional photos of the vehicle which are available, along with pictures of a person of interest in the case, on our Facebook page.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI.

KENNETT POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN ARMED ROBBERY OF SUBWAY

Police in Kennett are looking for a suspect in an alleged armed robbery.

Authorities say they received a call late Wednesday night about an armed robbery in progress at Subway on First Street. Witnesses told investigators that a white male wearing a scarf over his face had entered the restaurant with a firearm.

The man fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of money.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call the Kennett Police Department at 888-4622.

PARAGOULD MAN CONVICTED OF BURGLARY CHARGE

A Northeast Arkansas jury has convicted a Paragould man of a burglary charge.

According to Scott Ellington, Prosecuting Attorney for the Second Judicial District of Arkansas, 43 year old Nathan Inskeep was convicted of aggravated residential burglary by a Greene County Jury.

Inskeep was sentenced to 40 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. He was also convicted of two misdemeanor offenses, indecent exposure and third-degree battery, and sentenced to a year in the county jail on each charge.

On April 17, 2014, Inskeep allegedly forced his way inside the house of a woman and lunged at the victim, scratching her infant daughter on the cheek. He was wearing only a red sweatshirt and was naked from the waist down.

The victim’s husband, who was asleep in a bedroom, woke up and chased Inskeep out of the house. Inskeep was arrested the next day.

RIPLEY COUNTY PROSECUTING ATTORNEY INVESTIGATING POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCILMAN

The Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney is investigating a Poplar Bluff City Councilman.

Councilman Jack Rushin is being investigated for alleged nepotism after he appointed his cousin to a city feasibility study committee.

According to KFVS, Rushin’s cousin has resigned from the committee.

MUSIC ON MAIN POSTPONED

A music event scheduled for this weekend in downtown Poplar Bluff has been postponed.

Music on Main had to be postponed due to rain and thunderstorms in the forecast for Saturday.

A new date for the event has not been announced.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE INSTRUCTOR HONORED FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE

A Three Rivers College instructor has been honored for teaching excellence.

Chemistry instructor Dr. Mairead Ryan-Anderson recently received a Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching at a Missouri Community College Association luncheon.

Ryan-Anderson has been teaching for 32 years. She has a Bachelor of Science degree and a Ph.D. from the National University of Ireland.

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK BEGINS SATURDAY

With Memorial Day quickly approaching, the Missouri State Highway Patrol wants to remind water enthusiasts to stay safe on Missouri’s waterways.

Children under seven years old are required to wear a personal flotation device in a boat, but Colonel Bret Johnson says you are never too old to wear a life jacket.

The majority of Missouri drownings on public waterways involve adults. Reducing your speed in unfamiliar areas and being aware of unusual water conditions respective to the size and type of boat you operate are just a couple of environmental considerations. Also remember to designate a sober boat operator.

In 2014, there were 179 boating accidents reported in Missouri, with 101 injuries, and 15 fatalities.

THREE RIVERS COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY TO BE HELD TONIGHT

The Three Rivers College commencement ceremony will be held tonight at the Black River coliseum.

The ceremony will begin at 7 pm and is free for the public to attend.

Three Rivers alumnus Larry DeWitt, of Sikeston, will be the commencement speaker. DeWitt is the inventor of a permeable weed barrier fabric that changed the professional landscaping industry and developed into a $40 million company. He graduated from Three Rivers in 1971.

MISSOURI REPUBLICANS SELECT RICHARDSON AS NEXT HOUSE SPEAKER

(AP) - Missouri Republicans have chosen House Majority Leader Todd Richardson to take over the chamber's top spot following the resignation of House Speaker John Diehl.

Diehl announced Thursday that he was resigning after acknowledging that he had exchanged sexually suggestive text messages with a college freshman serving as a Capitol intern.

House Republicans met Thursday night and selected Richardson as his successor. The 38 year old lawmaker from Poplar Bluff still must be officially elected by the full House. That's expected to occur Friday morning, after Diehl's resignation is finalized.

Lawmakers face a 6 pm Friday deadline to pass legislation this year.

Richardson says he hopes the House can get right back to work passing bills. But legislation could be delayed by partisan tensions in the Senate.

MISSOURI LEGISLATURE AT A STANDSTILL WITH JUST ONE DAY LEFT

(AP) - The Missouri Legislature has ground to a halt with just one day remaining in its session because of a scandal involving the House speaker and partisan animosity in the Senate.

House Speaker John Diehl resigned Thursday, a day after a newspaper reported that he had exchanged sexually suggestive emails with a college freshman serving as a Capitol intern.

The House took no action on legislation Thursday.

Neither did the Senate, where Democrats continued to block votes because of their frustration that the Republican majority had forced a vote earlier this week on legislation limiting union powers.

Lawmakers face a 6 pm CDT Friday deadline to pass bills.

One of the bills in jeopardy would reauthorize medical provider taxes that are needed to supply about $3.6 billion for the Medicaid program.

MISSOURI HOUSE SENDS ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURE TO GOVERNOR

(AP) - The Missouri House has sent Governor Jay Nixon an omnibus environmental bill with provisions that effect wastewater treatment, pollution control and hydraulic fracturing.

The House approved the measure Wednesday 118-32 after the Senate approved it unanimously last week.

The measure would require companies get permits before using hydraulic fracturing, a method to extract oil.

The state also would have to consider full employment and industrial development goals in regulating water pollution. And the Department of Natural Resources would have to make sure changes to waste or sewer treatment utilities are affordable for ratepayers.

The measure would also allow for direct monitoring of sulfur dioxide levels in place of modeling by coal-fired electric plants as part of the state's plan to comply with federal requirements.

May 14, 2015

RIVER RADIO 051415  

POPLAR BLUFF AGAIN WITHOUT CITY MANAGER

The city of Poplar Bluff is once again without a city manager.

Heath Kaplan is reportedly no longer in that position. Kaplan held the job for nine months after replacing Doug Bagby.

The city has not yet released any official details about the circumstances behind Kaplan’s departure.

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

WOMAN KIDNAPPED IN CAPE, FBI SEEKS SUSPECT

Members of the FBI are in Cape Girardeau investigating the kidnapping and assault of a woman.

Authorities say the incident happened yesterday between 11 am and noon. The victim told police that she was sitting in her car in South County Park, when a man pulled her from her car and forced her into a red extended cab pickup truck. She said she was able to escape in Effingham, Illinois at around 6 pm.

The suspect is described as a heavy set white male, about 5'10" tall, in his late 30s, with a salt and pepper goatee. He was wearing a ball cap, a dirty long sleeve shirt and light blue jeans. He is possibly hard of hearing and a heavy smoker.

Pictures of a person of interest in the case are available on our Facebook page.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO STEELE ARSON INVESTIGATION

One man is facing charges in connection to an arson investigation in Steele.

According to Steele Police, officers responded to a residence on May 9^th in reference to a shed fire. It was later determined that the fire was deliberately set.

On May 11^th, 28 year old Blake Allen Gist, of Steele, was arrested in connection to the arson.

Gist has been charged with second degree arson.

SCOTT COUNTY PRISONER ASSAULTS THREE CORRECTIONS OFFICERS

A man who was being held in the Scott County Jail on numerous charges has added assault on a corrections officer to the list.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 28 year old William Henry Applewhite III, of Sikeston assaulted three jail officers over the weekend.

Sheriff Walter says Applewhite was causing a disturbance in the pod where he was being housed on Saturday.  Three officers entered the pod, at which time, Applewhite was able to get a choke hold on one of the officers and take his taser.

Applewhite used the taser on each of the officers, as well as two other prisoners, before being restrained.  One of the officers received treatment at a local hospital.

Applewhite was being held for first degree murder, armed criminal action, robbery, first degree assault and tampering with a witness.  He now faces additional charges of armed criminal action and three counts of assault on a corrections officer.

BOLLINGER COUNTY AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR SUSPECT IN RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY

Authorities in Bollinger County are looking for a suspect in a reported residential burglary.

According to the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office, on Tuesday afternoon a suspect entered a residence near Patton while the homeowner was there. The suspect quickly fled the scene when the homeowner discovered him in the residence.

The suspect is described as a white older male, skinny, with white hair wand a regular style men's cut. The suspect also possibly had several bruises and sores on his arms.

The suspect’s vehicle is described as a maroon Ford Ranger possibly late 80's or 90's model with no license plate on the front. The truck has rust on the passenger side, as well as on top.

Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office at 573-238-2633.

TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

A Tennessee man is facing drug related charges out of New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 44 year old Timothy Williams, of Dresden, Tennessee, was arrested Wednesday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

TUITION REDUCED FOR SOME VETERANS AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

Three Rivers College has reduced tuition costs for some veterans.

The college’s Board of Trustees recently approved altering the college’s tuition policy to charge “in-district” tuition to all veterans, their spouses and children.

“In-district” tuition is the lower rate charged to residents of the college’s four-county taxing district. The revised policy will allow all veterans and their families to receive the lowest possible tuition rate regardless of where they live.

WILDFIRE CONTAINED AT MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FORREST

Firefighters have contained a wildfire that was burning in the Mark Twain National Forrest for around a week.

According to the Mark Twain National Forrest Service, it took more than 100 firefighters, an air tanker, a heavy helicopter, and about an inch of rain to contain the Carty wildfire near Black, Missouri.

Over 2,100 acres of the forest were burned during the fire, however no structures were damaged or burned. There were also no injuries or accidents reported.

The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation.

WAYNE COUNTY BRIDGE REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY

An almost three month long bridge project will begin today in Wayne County.

Route Z in Wayne County will be closed as contractor crews replace the bridge.

The bridge is located over McGee Creek between East and South County Road 513.

Work will be performed through Friday, August 7^th from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

MISSOURI HOUSE SENDS EATING DISORDERS COVERAGE TO GOVERNOR

(AP) - A measure that would require insurers to cover eating disorders by following medical guidelines is headed to Governor Jay Nixon's desk.

The Missouri House approved the measure Wednesday by a vote of 148-6. It marks a personal victory for former Representative Rick Stream, whose daughter died of an eating disorder.

Stream, who left the House last year, returned to witness the passage of the measure that's been years in the making.

The bill would require insurers to cover eating disorders beyond the point of a person getting back to a certain weight by specifying they must follow medical guidelines.

Coverage for mental health treatment and specific treatment centers would be required.

RIGHT TO WORK BILL SENT TO GOVERNOR

(AP) - Missouri Republicans have used their large majorities to send a "right-to-work" measure to Democratic Governor Jay Nixon but appear to lack the support to override an expected veto.

The Missouri House gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that would prohibit workplace contracts that require union fees to be collected from nonmembers.

Supporters say the legislation would attract more businesses to the state and spur economic growth, while opponents assert that it would undermine unions and lead to lower wages.

Senate Republicans used a rare procedural move to cut off debate Tuesday evening and force a vote.

But both the Senate and House votes were short of the two-thirds majority that would be needed for a veto override.

Although Republicans hold supermajorities, some Republicans have joined Democrats opposing the bill.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS OK OFFICE TO ADVOCATE FOR MILITARY BASES

(AP) - A measure that would create a new office to coordinate Missouri's efforts to retain military bases is headed to Governor Jay Nixon's desk.

The Missouri House Wednesday voted to approve the measure 138-15.

Supporters say a designated appointee would help ensure the state is successful in avoiding potential cuts.

Republican Representative Charlie Davis, of Webb City, says Missouri needs to keep military personnel in the state as they have a huge economic impact.

Lawmakers are concerned about potential cuts of 5,400 civilian and military jobs at Fort Leonard Wood that are part of an overall force reduction plan.

Next year's budget includes $200,000 for the office within the Department of Economic Development, whose head would be appointed by Nixon and confirmed by the Senate.

May 13, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051315  

EIGHT YEAR OLD LYNN GIRL DIES AFTER BEING FOUND IN BATHTUB

(AP) - The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office says an 8 year old girl has died after being found unresponsive in a bathtub.

KAIT reports that deputies were called to a home near Lynn on Monday night after a possible drowning was reported. The sheriff's department said a parent had found the girl in a bathtub.

The child was flown to a hospital in Batesville where she later died.

The child's name has not been released.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO BLYTHEVILLE MURDER

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas are searching for a man in connection to a shooting death.

According to the Blytheville Police Department, 21 year old Raymond Smith was found in a vehicle Tuesday evening with a gunshot wound. Smith later died at an area hospital.

An investigation into the shooting has resulted in officers searching for 20 year old Treyon Peel. Peel is being considered armed and dangerous.

If you have any information on Peel’s whereabouts, contact the Blytheville Police Department at 870-763-4411.

83 YEAR OLD MAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION TO DONIPHAN SHOOTING INCIDENT

An 83 year old man has been charged in connection to a shooting in Doniphan.

According to authorities, Louis Campbell is facing charges of first degree assault and armed criminal action.

The charges stem from an incident Monday where 31 year old Jerry Lee Wilson was shot in the neck.

MISSING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS CHILD RETURNED TO FATHER

A Northeast Arkansas child, who has been missing for over a year, has been returned to her father.

Authorities say four year old Alyssa Lee was allegedly taken from the area about 12 months ago by her non-custodial mother, 31 year old Christine Rebecca Flick.

Flick was located and taken into custody over the weekend in Millington, Tennessee. Alyssa was not with her at the time of arrest.

A family member of Flick brought the girl to the Trumann Police Department early Tuesday morning.

LILBOURN WOMAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A Lilbourn woman is facing drug charges following her arrest Tuesday in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Tonya Reynolds was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for xanax and methamphetamine.

Reynolds is also charged with failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.

BUSINESSES WARNED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR STOLEN CHECKS

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce is warning local businesses to be on the lookout for stolen checks.

According to the Chamber of Commerce, three checkbooks have been stolen from Duckett Construction. The checks are with First Midwest Bank and have the following names on them; Duckett Brothers Properties, Duckett Brothers Construction, and Jeremy Duckett.

If you see someone attempting to use one of these checks, please report it to authorities.

PBHS SENIOR COMPLETES 100 BOOK CHALLENGE

A Poplar Bluff High School Senior has won a $1,000 scholarship by reading 100 novels.

17 year old Ben Soeter is the first student in three years to earn the scholarship via the Designing Women Foundation’s Charlie Classics reading program.

The teen placed first in his class each year for reading the most teacher-approved literary works, resultantly winning thousands in bank cards in addition to the scholarship.

When Soeter was a freshman, he donated $500 back to the PBHS library so the school could replace some of its titles in the Charlie Classics collection.

LIBLA FAMILY TO MAKE SEVEN FIGURE DONATION TO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

The Three Rivers College Endowment Trust will receive a seven figure donation from an area family that will aid the construction of the college’s new sports complex.

A signing ceremony was held Monday featuring Doug, Elaine, David, and Mary Libla along with Three Rivers officials.

The proposed sports complex is for a 75,000-square-foot structure incorporating a 3,000-seat gymnasium, offices for all of Three Rivers’ coaches, improved training and locker room facilities, and a Three Rivers Sports Hall of Fame.

It will replace the Bess Activity Center as the home of the Raiders and Lady Raiders basketball teams

The facility also will have a FEMA-certified safe room capable of withstanding an F5-strength tornado funded by a $2.5 million SEMA/FEMA grant.

MODOT CREWS IN NEW MADRID COUNTY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

US 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete replacement.

The work zone is located from US 61 to I-55.

Work will be done through Thursday, May 28^th from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

MISSOURI HOUSE OVERRIDES NIXON’S VETO ON UNEMPLOYMENT CUTS

(AP) - Missouri's Republican-controlled House has voted to override a veto of a measure that would cut the weeks of available jobless benefits to one of the lowest amounts in the U.S.

House members voted 109-53 for the measure, which also needs a two-thirds majority in the Senate to win final approval.

The bill vetoed by Democratic Governor Jay Nixon would cut the weeks of benefits available for laid-off workers from the current 20 to as low as 13 if the statewide unemployment rate remains below 6 percent.

Only Florida and North Carolina have minimums lower than 13 weeks, but those would kick in only if state unemployment drops below 5 percent.

Democrats say the bill will hurt those who struggle to find work. Republicans say it will reduce costs for employers.

MISSOURI LEGISLATIVE PANEL BLOCKS WAGE HIKE FOR HOME CARE

(AP) - A legislative panel has blocked Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services from increasing wages for home care workers.

House members and representatives on the oversight committee voted 7-2 Tuesday to block the pay increase for workers who tend to aging Missourians and others who can't care for themselves.

The department rule would have increased the current $7.65 an hour minimum to $8.50 to $10.15 for home care workers.

But lawmakers said the department doesn't have the authority to increase those wages.

Committee vice-chairman Republican Representative Jay Barnes of Jefferson City says it should be up to the Legislature to decide whether to raise that minimum wage.

May 12, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 051215  

TEENAGER SHOT AND KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A teenager has died from injuries he received in a shooting last week.

According to KAIT, the 15 year old was shot in the chest on Friday with a pellet riffle at an Osceola residence.

The teen was later pronounced dead at an area hospital. The incident is under investigation; however the report states that another teen was taken into custody in connection to the shooting.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER VEHICLE HITS TRACTOR TRAILER NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A Broseley woman suffered serious injuries Monday afternoon in a two vehicle wreck near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Highway 67 when a vehicle driven 82 year old Junior Hutson, of Broseley, struck the rear of a tractor trailer.

A passenger in Hutson’s vehicle, 79 year old Peggy Hutson, was seriously injured and taken to an area hospital.

SHOT FIRED DURING INCIDENT IN PARAGOULD

One man suffered injuries over the weekend in an incident where a shot was fired in Paragould.

According to KAIT, two men had been in a fight Saturday night when one of them reportedly attempted to shoot the other. One of the men did suffer injuries during the incident, but he was not shot.

Police are investigating the incident.

SUSPECT IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO DONIPHAN SHOOTING

A suspect is in custody in connection to a shooting in Doniphan.

According to KFVS, a 31 year old man was shot and injured in the incident. The names of the suspect and victim were not released.

The shooting is under investigation.

PAIR RESCUED FROM FLOOD WATERS IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

Rescue crews helped two people from flood waters Monday morning in Bollinger County.

According to authorities, the pair was rescued from a vehicle on County Road 200.

LAW ENFORCEMENT TO CRACK DOWN ON UNBUCKLED DRIVERS

Law enforcement across the United States will be cracking down on unbuckled drivers beginning next week.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, an aggressive national “Click it or Ticket” campaign will be conducted from May 18^th to May 31^st.

Missouri has a 79 percent seat belt use, which lags behind the National average of 87 percent. Six out of 10 vehicle occupants killed in 2014 Missouri traffic crashes were unrestrained.

MISSOURI HOUSE OKS RAMPED UP SCHOOL BULLYING POLICIES

(AP) - A bill aimed at clamping down on bullying and preventing suicides in Missouri schools is nearing passage.

The legislation passed 129-19 by the House on Monday would require school anti-bullying policies to include stricter procedures for reporting, investigating and responding to bullying.

Those policies also would have to include cyberbullying such as texting.

Employees would have two days to report bullying, and the school must investigate claims of bullying within a day after that. Students who bully would receive at least counseling and at most be expelled.

The bill also would require schools to adopt policies aimed at preventing youth suicide, including ways to help students at risk of killing themselves.

The measure needs final Senate approval before it can head to Governor Jay Nixon.

MISSOURI SENATE PANEL ENDORSES RIGHT-TO-WORK MEASURE

(AP) - Opponents of a right-to-work measure packed the Capitol halls as Missouri's Republican leaders pushed to send the measure to Democratic Governor Jay Nixon in the Legislature's final week.

A Senate committee voted Monday night to advance the measure to the full chamber for debate. If approved there, it would have to return to the House before heading to Nixon, who has said he opposes it.

The measure would prohibit union contracts with businesses in which fees are collected from non-union employees.

Supporters say it would attract more businesses to Missouri and spur economic growth.

Opponents say it's an attack on unions that would lower wages, make training difficult and reduce workplace safety.

Similar measures were approved in Michigan and Indiana in 2012 and in Wisconsin earlier this year.

HOUSE OKS BILL TO EXEMPT GYM PURCHASES FROM TAXES

(AP) - A Missouri bill aimed at exempting gym memberships, equipment for power companies and other purchases from sales taxes has passed the House.

The House on Monday voted 85-66 in favor of the measure, which originally would have only created a commission to study state tax policy.

But House lawmakers added provisions to shield customers at yoga studios and other exercise clubs from sales taxes. Another provision added by the House would establish a sales tax exemption for such things as poles, wires and transformers used by power companies for transmitting electricity.

Governor Jay Nixon last year vetoed similar bills, citing concerns that it could hurt state and local revenues.

The Senate can either adopt House changes or opt to hash out the differences.

May 11, 2015

MAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE ON HIGHWAY 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

A 36 year old man was struck and killed by a vehicle Saturday night in Stoddard County.

According to the Dexter Police Department, Terry Edmond Belcher Jr. was attempting to cross Highway 60 on foot when he was hit by an eastbound vehicle.

Belcher was pronounced dead at the scene. Dexter Police say no foul play is suspected in the death.

INMATE FROM BUTLER COUNTY ESCAPES FROM WORK DETAIL

Authorities in Butler County say an inmate escaped from a work detail last week.

25 year old Jeremy Hicks, who is a non violent offender, reportedly escaped on Thursday, according to KFVS.

The report says Hicks poses no threat to the public. Anyone with information on Hicks’ whereabouts is asked to contact police.

WOMAN SOUGHT BY JONESBORO POLICE CAUGHT IN TENNESSEE

The mother of a missing child has been arrested in Tennessee

On Friday, the Jonesboro Police Department asked for the public’s help in finding 31 year old Christine Rebecca Flick and four year old Alyssa Lee. Flick is the child’s non-custodial mother.

Detective Sergeant Cassie Brandon said the child’s father was granted temporary custody of Alyssa Lee by a Craighead County court in July of 2014.

WMC-TV is reporting that Flick is in custody of the Millington Police Department; however the whereabouts of Lee are currently unknown.

WOMAN FACING METH RELATED CHARGE OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

Authorities say an Ellington woman was arrested on a meth related charge Sunday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Nora Ireland was taken into custody shortly after 10 pm Sunday night in Wayne County.

Ireland is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

ELLINGTON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

An Ellington man is facing a drug charge following his arrest Sunday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Travis Hampton was arrested on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and felony use of drug paraphernalia.

Hampton also reportedly had a misdemeanor failure to appear warrant out of Iron County.

WINONA TEENAGER CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE

A Winona teenager is facing a felony drug related charge following his arrest in Shannon County.

According to authorities, the 17 year old male was arrested Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

The teen is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

WIDESPREAD THUNDERSTORMS IN THE FORECAST FOR TODAY

The National Weather Service says widespread thunderstorms are in the forecast for today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook released Sunday night, a few severe storms are possible today with damaging winds and large hail also possible.

Heavy rainfall will also be a concern this morning across Southeast Missouri.

BARK IN THE PARK TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

A fun event for dog lovers is coming up this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The Animal Welfare Alliance will be holding “Bark in the Park” on Sunday, May 17^th from 2 to 5 pm at Hendrickson Park. Some events to be held include dog training demonstrations, a pet parade and goofy pet contests.

Admission is free for humans, however there will be a $1 charge per dog. Owners are asked to make sure there dogs are on leashes.

May 8, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080815  

MAN FLOWN TO CAPE GIRARDEAU HOSPITAL FOLLOWING STABBING INCIDENT

A man was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital Thursday morning following a stabbing incident.

According to the Sikeston Standard Democrat, the man was reportedly stabbed during a domestic dispute in Oran. The victim had two apparent stab wounds on his back.

The incident is under investigation.

STODDARD COUNTY AUTHORITIES FIND HEROIN IN VEHICLE

Authorities in Stoddard County arrested three Poplar Bluff residents earlier this week after finding drugs in their vehicle.

During a search of the vehicle, deputies reportedly found a bag with around 9 grams of heroin in it.

The occupants of the vehicle, 30 year old Shannon Obarr, 27 year old William Obarr, and 26 year old Amy Dennis, were each charged with possession of a controlled substance.

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Sikeston man is facing a drug charge in connection to his arrest Thursday.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 22 year old Robert Haynes is charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

An officer found Haynes at a Sikeston apartment while attempting to locate a separate subject with an active warrant. The officer was alerted that Haynes also had an active warrant out of Cape Girardeau.

While placing Haynes under arrest, the officer found a syringe with a clear liquid inside of it in Haynes pocket. Haynes reportedly admitted that the liquid was methamphetamine.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN FACING WEAPONS CHARGES

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Deniquay Jefferson was arrested on charges of unlawful use of a weapon; unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon; and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, marijuana.

FORREST FIRE RAGING IN MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FORREST

(AP) - Nearly 100 firefighters are battling a wildfire that has burned more than 1,100 acres in southern Missouri's Mark Twain National Forest.

Forest officials say the blaze was discovered Sunday and continues to grow. About 30 homes and other structures are at risk, officials said Thursday, but so far, no buildings have been damaged and no one has been hurt.

The fire is in a heavily forested area on public and private land, about two miles southwest of Black. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Weather hasn't made things any easier. Conditions have been hot, windy and dry all week, though rain is in the forecast for the weekend.

POPLAR BLUFF MUNICIPAL AIRPORT TO HOST FLY-IN AND PANCAKE BREAKFAST THIS WEEKEND

The Poplar Bluff Municipal Airport will be hosting a Fly-in and Pancake breakfast this weekend.

The event will be held from 7 am to noon on Saturday, May 9^th. There will be breakfast served by the Poplar Bluff Jr. ROTC, which will include pancakes, sausage, coffee, milk and water.

There will also be an aircraft on display, plane and helicopter rides, and parachutists.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS APPROVE MUNICIPAL COURT RESTRICTIONS

(AP) - The Missouri Legislature has sent the governor a measure in response to concerns voiced by some residents in the St. Louis area following last summer's fatal shooting of Michael Brown by a Ferguson police officer.

The bill passed Thursday would cap fines for minor traffic violations, set minimum standards for St. Louis County cities and regulate municipal court procedures.

Supporters of the measure say it will help restore trust in government and address the predatory revenue-generating policing practices detailed in a federal Justice Department report about Ferguson.

The bill lowers the percentage of revenue most cities can collect from traffic fines and fees from 30 percent to 20 percent. St. Louis County cities would be subject to a lower limit of 12.5 percent.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR SIGNS LIMITS FOR MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CASES

(AP) - Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has approved a measure that limits noneconomic damage awards in cases where a patient has been harmed by a medical profession.

The measure Nixon signed Thursday reinstates caps on medical malpractice lawsuits in Missouri, after the state Supreme Court struck down previous limits three years ago.

Supporters say caps are needed to bring certainty to insurance costs for hospitals and doctors, while opponents argue the limits hurt patients who have already been damaged by a doctor's actions.

The limits apply only to noneconomic damages, not medical costs or lost wages.

Most noneconomic damages would be capped at $400,000. For catastrophic cases, including paralysis or brain injury, the cap would be $700,000.

The bill also doubles the limit in wrongful death cases to $700,000.