All Lake Road families are invited to attend Lake Road Elementary's first annual Family Movie Night. This event will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, in the gym. The movie Inside Out will be shown. It will last 1 hour and 35 minutes. Families may bring a ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
STODDARD COUNTY MAN’S CONVICTION UPHELD
A Court of Appeals has rejected a Stoddard County man’s appeal of his conviction on multiple charges, including forcible rape.
Steven Rendleman was sentenced to 163 years plus 2 life sentences without the possibility of parole for kidnapping, forcible rape, forcible sodomy, assault of a law enforcement officer, and armed criminal action in connection to an incident that occurred in March of 2012.
Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver says tells us that the Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction and sentence without issuing an opinion, finding simply that no error occurred in the trial.
COCAINE, MARIJUANA, AND HYDROCODONE FOUND IN SIKESTON MAN’S HOME Authorities say cocaine and marijuana were found during the search of a Sikeston man’s home.
Police responded to the home after receiving a tip of that there were drugs in the residence.
Authorities reportedly found over 4.5 ounces of marijuana, over 1.5 ounces of cocaine, and over 30 hydrocodone pills at the home.
Joe Allen Alexander was taken into custody on three counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
SEMO FOOD BANK FOOD GIVEAWAY IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND The Southeast Missouri Food Bank will be holding a food giveaway tomorrow in Poplar Bluff.
The Mobile Food Pantry will be held at 10 am Saturday in the River Radio Parking Lot on West Pine Street. Attendees should bring their own bag or box.
If you have questions about the event, contact Missy Rice at 573-703-3019.
VAN BUREN MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Van Buren man was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital Thursday after he was involved in a single vehicle wreck.
According to authorities the wreck occurred Thursday morning on Route M in Carter County. 61 year old James Duncan’s vehicle lost control, travelled off the roadway, and struck a culvert.
Duncan, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was seriously injured and taken by Air Evac to a Cape Girardeau hospital.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE LOOKING FOR TWO MEN IN CONNECTION TO SHOPLIFTING COMPLAINT Poplar Bluff authorities are searching for two men in connection to a shoplifting complaint.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Wal-Mart Loss Prevention told police that two white males stole video games from the store and fled on foot when they were confronted by an employee at the exit.
Pictures of the two suspects are available on our Facebook page.
If you recognize either of the suspects, the Police Department is asking you to contact Officer Jim Gerber at 573-785-5776.
VALENTINES FOR VETERANS CONCERT SET FOR FEBRUARY 19TH An Eagles tribute band will be the act for this year’s Valentines for Veterans concert in Poplar Bluff.
Take it to the Limit will be performing at the event on February 19th at the Black River Coliseum. In addition there will also be a special dedication to Vietnam era veterans with songs from Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Doors will open for the event at 5:30 pm, followed by a pre-show at 6:30 and the main event at 7. Tickets can be picked up at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center and the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TO HOST COFFEE WITH A COP EVENT IN FEBRUARY The Poplar Bluff Police Department has announced that they will be giving local citizens the chance to meet the officers that serve them in an upcoming event.
The Police Department will be holding their 1st Coffee with a Cop event from 8:30 to10:30 am on February 19th at McDonald's on Highway 67 North.
During the event, there will be opportunities to ask questions, voice concerns, and get to know the officers in your neighborhood.
MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON FIREARM AND DRUG CHARGESA Holland, Missouri man was taken into custody earlier this week in Pemiscot County on firearm and drug charges.
According to authorities, 30 year old Mark Crocker was arrested on felony charges of possession of a firearm, possession of a controlled substance for xanax, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute for methamphetamine.
Following the arrest, Crocker was held in the Pemiscot County jail on a 24 hour hold.
SHOPLIFTING CALL LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN KENNETT A shoplifting call resulted in the arrest of a Dexter woman on a drug charge.
According to the Kennett Police Department, officers were dispatched to an area business Wednesday to take a shoplifting report. The officers made contact with the suspect and located several types of narcotics in her purse.
The suspect, Christy Smith, of Dexter, was arrested for stealing and possession of a controlled substance. Following the arrest, Smith was taken to the Dunklin County Jail.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG WARRANT Poplar Bluff police arrested an area man Wednesday on a drug warrant.
According to the police department, an officer found 52 year old Kevin Tarpley picking up trash in an area parking lot. The officer conducted a warrants check and found Tarpley had an active warrant through the Butler County Sheriff’s Office for distributing a controlled substance.
Tarpley was placed in custody and lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on a $100,000 bond.
KENNETT MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY FOR RESISTING ARREST A Kennett man has been taken into custody for allegedly resisting arrest.
According to authorities Butler County Deputies made contact with 22 year old Davonta Green after reports were made about Green threatening to harm himself. After the deputies made contact, Green reportedly took off running. Authorities say Green was able to get about a mile before being apprehended.
It was later determined that Green had a probation violation and was wanted for arrest.
He was arrested on an additional charge of felony resisting arrest.
TWO ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES IN SCOTT COUNTY Authorities in Scott County say two Benton residents have been taken into custody on child pornography charges.
According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, deputies served a search warrant Tuesday at a residence in Benton in connection to an ongoing investigation into child molestation charges.
At the residence, deputies found an inappropriate photograph of a child who was less than 18 years of age.
The victim identified the photograph as one that 67 year old Clayton Counts had taken.
Investigators were able to determine that 58 year old Judith Gray had been present during incidents when Counts was allegedly raping the victim. Gray would hold the door shut to keep anyone from going inside the bedroom while Counts raped the victim.
Counts and Gray were both taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of child pornography. Counts is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.
DEADLINE COMING UP FOR THREE RIVERS COLLEGE DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI NOMINATIONS This Friday is the deadline for nominations for the 2015 Three Rivers College Distinguished Alumni Award.
The award will go to a graduate from or former student of Three Rivers College who will be judged on the merits of their personal and professional achievements.
A committee drawn from College employees, members of the Three Rivers Board of Trustees and the Three Rivers Endowment Trust, and residents of the college’s service area will choose the winning nomination. The award will then be given out at a recognition banquet hosted by the college in the spring.
Nominations can be submitted by going to trcc.edu/distinguished and filling out the form provided there. The nominations will close on January 29th.
Kindergarten enrollment for the 2016-2017 school year begins on Monday, Feb. 8, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center, 1200 Camp Road. Enrollment will also be held Feb. 9-11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. No appointments are necessary. Students must be 5 years ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
Graduating seniors can apply now for a $2,000 MFA Foundation scholarship being offered at PBHS. The deadline to apply is March 15. The scholarship winner will be chosen by a local selection committee. The scholarship may be used at any college or university toward any course ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
TWO ARRESTED ON CHILD ENDANGERMENT CHARGES IN POPLAR BLUFFTwo people were taken into custody Saturday following a well being check at a Poplar Bluff residence.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at the residence an officer found multiple items on the floor including what appeared to be dried feces in the bathroom. Other rooms in the residence were also in disarray with items scattered throughout.
One of the two children in the residence reportedly had a small cut on their leg that both parents stated happened from a hole in the bedroom floor.
The two children were removed from the residence and released to a family member.
William and Heather Dugger were both placed under arrest for 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.
THREE ARRESTED AFTER SUSPECTED METHAMPHETAMINE FOUND IN CLAY COUNTY HOME Three people were arrested Sunday after authorities reportedly found drugs in a Clay County residence.
Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells us that Clay County deputies and Piggott Police officers executed a search warrant Sunday at a residence in Piggott.
While searching the residence, officers found suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and several items of drug paraphernalia.
Miller says that three people were taken into custody, Pam Brady, Justin Tompkins, and Whitney Freer. The three are facing multiple drug related charges.
THREE ARRESTED AFTER SUSPECTED METHAMPHETAMINE FOUND IN CLAY COUNTY HOME Three people were arrested Sunday after authorities reportedly found drugs in a Clay County residence.
Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells us that Clay County deputies and Piggott Police officers executed a search warrant Sunday at a residence in Piggott.
While searching the residence, officers found suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and several items of drug paraphernalia.
Miller says that three people were taken into custody, Pam Brady, Justin Tompkins, and Whitney Freer. The three are facing multiple drug related charges.
TWO IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY Two men have been taken into custody in connection to a robbery.
According to New Madrid authorities, the two men, Shannon Smith and Robert Taylor Jr., allegedly entered a home, assaulted, and robbed a man Monday morning.
The victim was taken to a St. Louis hospital with a head injury. The two men have been arrested on charges of 1st degree robbery, 1st degree assault, and 1st degree burglary.
TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO ARREST OF POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested on drug related charges following a weekend traffic stop.
According to authorities, an officer conducted the stop Saturday night for a non-working license plate light. During the stop, the driver of the vehicle reportedly appeared to be nervous and consented for the officer to search the vehicle.
Officers discovered a glass pipe with cloudy white residue in the back of the driver’s side seat. The glass pipe later tested positive for methamphetamine.
The driver, 35 year old Samantha Elsworth, was arrested on charges of possession of drugs amphetamine and use or possession of drug paraphernalia.
A passenger in the vehicle, Valerie McGhee, was also taken into custody.
NORTHSIDE NUTRITION CENTER TO HOST CHILDREN’S BAKING CLASS The Northside Nutrition Center is accepting 12 students between the ages of 10 and 13 for valentine cooking decorating class this weekend.
The class will be held Saturday from 10 am to noon. Students will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis, and will learn the basics of following a recipe, measuring, mixing, rolling, cutting, and decorating Valentine’s treats.
The cost is $25 if paid by Friday and $30 if paid the day of the class, with proceeds going to the Northside Nutrition Center. All ingredients will be provided.
For more information, contact the Northside Nutrition Center.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR DANGEROUS INDIVIDUALPoplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley says that a search is ongoing for a man that has been described as a “Dangerous Individual.”
Authorities are searching for 30 year old Jeffrey Matthew Vest, of Poplar Bluff. We spoke with Chief Whitely about the search,
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Whitley would go on further to say that the Butler County Sheriff’s Department took a motor vehicle theft complaint on Sunday in which Vest is suspected of stealing a Silver 2016 Ford Contour bearing a Missouri license plate of MB7 V0D.
If you have any information on Vest’s whereabouts, you are asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776, the Butler County Sheriff's Department at 573-785-8444, or the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500.
KENNETT MAN KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING Kennett police say a local man’s death appears to be the result of an accidental shooting.
Captain Tim Trowbridge tells us that officers were dispatched to the scene of an apparent death Monday morning.
An investigation showed that Dolph Riggs had returned home from a hunting trip sometime Sunday night. While unloading his shotgun, the gun accidently discharged and a single round struck him in the chest.
OFFICIALS INVESTIGATING BALD EAGLE SHOOTING IN WAYNE COUNTY Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation say a bald eagle was shot and later died over the weekend in Wayne County.
Officials say the bird was shot near Patterson.
Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to contact the MDC Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-392-1111.
MONTH LONG INTERSTATE REPAIR PROJECT ONGOING IN PEMISCOT COUNTY Southbound I-155 in Pemiscot County is being reduced as a part of a month long project so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs.
According to Missouri Department of Transportation officials, the work zone is located from the I-55 interchange to the Tennessee line.
Weather permitting; work will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, February 26th.
The top three activities to do at home with your child that will lead to reading success are: Talk often with your child to build listening and speaking skills. Read to and with your child often. Talk to him/her about the words and ideas in books. Encourage your child to ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
DONALD LAFFERTY FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE ATTEMPTED MURDER
A Stoddard County jury has convicted a Vermont man on multiple charges including 1st degree attempted murder.
Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver tells us that Donald Lafferty was found guilty Friday on felony charges of 1st degree attempted murder, 1st degree arson, armed criminal action, and financial exploitation of the elderly.
Lafferty’s sentencing was scheduled for March 9th.
MARK RICHARDSON TO TAKE OVER AS POPLAR BLUFF CITY ATTORNEY
A new Poplar Bluff city attorney has been announced.
Mark Richardson will take over for the departing Robert Smith in February. Richardson was appointed to the post by city manager Mark Massingham.
Richardson is an attorney with over 35 years experience and had been the Poplar Bluff city attorney in the late 1980’s. Richardson has also served as assistant prosecuting attorney for Butler County and circuit judge for the 36th Judicial Circuit Court.
METHAMPHETAMINE AND PARAPHERNALIA FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN RECTOR
A man was arrested Friday night in Northeast Arkansas after deputies found methamphetamine during a traffic stop.
Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells us that deputies stopped the vehicle shortly after 9 pm Friday in Rector. The driver, 50 year old Franklin Brawley, of Paragould, was then detained for a warrant from the Greene County Sheriff's Office.
While searching the vehicle, deputies reportedly found several items of paraphernalia and methamphetamines.
Miller says Brawley is facing multiple charges including possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamines, felony possession of drug paraphernalia, and felony tampering with evidence.
VAN BUREN MAN ARRESTED ON DISTRIBUTION WARRANT
Authorities in Carter County have taken a Van Buren man into custody on a felony distribution warrant.
According to authorities, 61 year old Randy Ninneman was arrested Friday afternoon on a felony Carter County warrant for distributing a controlled substance near schools.
Following the arrest Ninneman was lodged in the Carter County Jail.
STEVE WHITWORTH AWARDED CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AT POPLAR BLUFF CHAMBER BANQUET
An area businessman was announced as Citizen of the Year at the 78th annual Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce banquet held over the weekend.
Steve Whitworth was named Citizen of the Year Saturday night at the banquet. Debby Norris was chosen as Volunteer of the Year.
The 2015 Gateway to Leadership graduates were also recognized at the event.
SEMO FOOD BANK FOOD GIVEAWAY IN POPLAR BLUFF RESCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND
A new date has been set for the Mobile Food Pantry food giveaway in Poplar Bluff.
The event by the Southeast Missouri Food Bank will be held at 10 am on Saturday, January 30th in the River Radio Parking Lot on West Pine Street. Attendees should bring their own bag or box.
The event was rescheduled following the winter storms that hit Poplar Bluff last week. If you have questions about the event, contact Missy Rice at 573-703-3019.
TREE TRIMMING TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY
Route M in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can trim trees along the roadway.
The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 25 to Route PP.
Weather permitting; work will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday.
Over 100 Poplar Bluff Middle School and Junior High staff members participated in the second annual Tech Camp on Collaboration Day Friday, Jan. 15, featuring workshops hosted by R-I faculty as well as education leaders from throughout the state. The 45 break-out sessions at PBJHS centered on resources and strategies ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
ICY ROADS CAUSE NUMEROUS ACCIDENTS IN POPLAR BLUFFFreezing rain caused slick travel throughout the night on Poplar Bluff roads.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers worked several motor vehicle accidents last night. At one point police asked motorists to not travel unless absolutely necessary.
The freezing rain was followed by snow overnight so driving conditions are still treacherous across the area.
If you have to get out on the roads this morning, remember to take the time to make sure the windows are completely cleared to ensure visibility and clear your driveway so that your vehicle enters the roadway safely. Also allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed.
Road conditions are available online by going to the Missouri Department of Transportation’s website modot.org and clicking on the Road Condition icon.
GREENVILLE WOMAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGES A Greenville woman was taken into custody Thursday evening on multiple felony charges.
According to authorities, 54 year old Kathryn David is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute for methamphetamine and unlawful use of paraphernalia.
Following the arrest, David was taken to the Wayne County Jail.
MEETING TO BE HELD IN QULIN TO DISCUSS UPCOMING BUTLER AND DUNKLIN COUNTY BRIDGE PROJECT Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be holding a public meeting next month in Qulin to discuss an upcoming bridge project in Butler and Dunklin Counties.
The project includes constructing a bridge over the St. Francis River on Route 53 to replace the existing St. Francis River and overflow bridges at the location.
Improvements are expected to begin in Spring 2017, with completion anticipated in Fall 2018.
A public meeting to discuss the project will be held from 4 to 6 pm on Thursday, February 25th at the Qulin Middle School.
Project Manager Eric Krapf tells us that visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 6 pm to discuss the details of the project with a member of the project team and provide their comments.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY CRASH A Poplar Bluff woman was injured Thursday night after she struck a building with her vehicle.
According to authorities, 27 year old Brittany Hadley was driving six miles south of Poplar Bluff on Missouri Highway 53 when her vehicle slid on the ice covered road, ran off the side, and struck a building.
Hadley was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND The 50th anniversary celebration for Three Rivers College will kick off this weekend at the college’s Poplar Bluff Campus.
The Community Celebration on Sunday will also feature local organizations celebrating milestone anniversaries this year, including the 125 year anniversary for Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the 100 year anniversary Poplar Bluff Municipal Library and Sacred Heart School, and the 75 year anniversary for Wappapello Lake & Dam.
The gathering will begin at 2pm Sunday at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI FOOD BANK TO HOLD MOBILE FOOD PANTRY TOMORROW IN POPLAR BLUFF The Southeast Missouri Food Bank has scheduled a food giveaway to be held tomorrow in Poplar Bluff.
The Mobile Food Pantry will be held at 10 am on January 23rd in the River Radio Parking Lot on West Pine Street. Attendees should bring their own bag or box.
If you have questions about the event, contact Missy Rice at 573-703-3019.
MAN INVOLVED IN CAR WRECK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS FOUND DEADUpdating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities in Northeast Arkansas have found the body of a man who was involved in a car wreck earlier this week.
According to authorities, the man had walked away from a wreck overnight Monday night at Ravenden Springs, near Highway 90 in Randolph County.
The man’s body was spotted by a pilot flying over the area Wednesday. The identity of the man has not been released.
MAN INVOLVED IN CAR WRECK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS FOUND DEAD Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities in Northeast Arkansas have found the body of a man who was involved in a car wreck earlier this week.
According to authorities, the man had walked away from a wreck overnight Monday night at Ravenden Springs, near Highway 90 in Randolph County.
The man’s body was spotted by a pilot flying over the area Wednesday. The identity of the man has not been released.
PARAGOULD RESIDENTS REMINDED TO LOCK VEHICLES FOLLOWING STRING OF BREAK INS Residents in Paragould are being reminded to lock their vehicles following a string of break ins in the city.
According to the Paragould Police Department, they are currently investigating several car break ins from over the past few days.
Help prevent yourself from becoming a victim by always keeping your doors locked and any valuable property out of sight.
Anyone who has any information about the break ins is encouraged to call the police department at 870-236-7621.
ANOTHER ROUND OF WINTER WEATHER IN THE FORECAST FOR NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel are bracing for a second round of winter weather to hit the area tonight.
According to the National Weather Service, the area could see three or more inches of snow along with minor accumulations of sleet from 6 pm tonight to noon Friday. The weather could cause dangerous travel conditions and power outages.
For the rest of Southeast Missouri, there is a moderate chance of snow, freezing rain, and sleet for tonight and early tomorrow morning.
AUTHORITIES FIND BODY OF MISSING SCOTT CITY MAN Authorities in Scott County have found the body a man who has been missing since Tuesday.
23 year old Zackary Johnston, of Scott City, was found dead Wednesday afternoon in a body of water. Johnston was on a solo hunting trip when he went missing on Tuesday.
No foul play is suspected in the death.
SPORTS COMPLEX APPROVED BY THREE RIVERS BOARD OF TRUSTEES A new sports complex has been approved for Three Rivers College.
The college’s board of trustees approved the complex Wednesday night. The Libla Family Sports Complex will be home to the Raiders’ new 3,000 seat gymnasium, along with improved training and locker room facilities, and a Three Rivers Sports Hall of Fame.
The facility also will have a FEMA-certified safe room capable of withstanding an F5-strength tornado.
WOMAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES
An Iron County woman is facing multiple drug charges in connection to her weekend arrest in Wayne County.
According to authorities, 34 year old Mindy Johnson, of Vulcan, was arrested Sunday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Johnson is also facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance for marijuana.
MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL WARNS OF TAX ID THEFT SCAMS Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster is warning consumers to be alert for tax fraud identity theft as the tax filing season gets underway.
Tax identity theft occurs when an identity thief uses a taxpayer’s stolen identity to file a fraudulent return and claim the victim’s tax refund. The identity thief often uses a stolen Social Security number and other consumer information to file a forged return.
In other scams, some tax thieves use children’s identities to fraudulently claim them as dependents on a return. In yet another version, scammers will hack into an online tax preparation software account opened by the victim.
Koster says Missourians can help protect themselves by filing their returns early, and consumers who experience problems can reach out to the Attorney General’s office for help.
More tips for avoiding ID theft are available online at ago.mo.gov.
TWO FOUND DEAD IN SIKESTON APARTMENT Two people were found dead early Tuesday morning in Sikeston.
According to authorities, 58 year old James Wilder and 26 year old Candace Baum were found dead in the living room of an area apartment.
An investigation into the deaths is ongoing, however authorities say that Baum was the victim of a domestic homicide and Wilder had committed suicide.
MAN MISSING FOLLOWING WRECK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Authorities are searching for a man in Northeast Arkansas following a wreck overnight Monday night.
According to authorities, the man walked away from a wreck at Ravenden Springs, near Highway 90 in Randolph County. Crews searched for the man Tuesday; however they were not able to find him.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office at 870-892-8888.
MAN MISSING FOLLOWING WRECK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Authorities are searching for a man in Northeast Arkansas following a wreck overnight Monday night.
According to authorities, the man walked away from a wreck at Ravenden Springs, near Highway 90 in Randolph County. Crews searched for the man Tuesday; however they were not able to find him.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office at 870-892-8888.
BODY FOUND IN REYNOLDS COUNTY BEING INVESTIGATED AS A HOMICIDEA body that was found last week in Reynolds County is being investigated as a homicide.
According to authorities, the body was found last Wednesday South of Lesterville near the Black River.
The body has been identified as 63 year old Sharon Nelson, of Hillsboro. The cause of death has not been released.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES Authorities arrested a Poplar Bluff man early Sunday morning in Stoddard County on multiple felony charges.
According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old September Dicken is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Dicken is also facing a charge of possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana.
TWO TO FOUR INCHES OF SNOW ESTIMATED TONIGHT FOR POPLAR BLUFF The first big winter weather event of the season is in the forecast for tonight.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a possible two to four inches of snow and sleet for Poplar Bluff tonight. We could see some snow early tonight, but the main system will hit the area after 9 pm. A winter weather advisory will be in effect from 9 pm to noon on Wednesday.
According to the NWS, there is also a likely chance for more rain, snow, and freezing rain to hit the area on Thursday.
Stay tuned here to Today’s Talk KWOC for the latest weather information.
CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a Cape Girardeau man has been flown to a St. Louis hospital following a single vehicle wreck near Poplar Bluff.
According to the Highway Patrol, 46 year old Phillip Thomas’s vehicle travelled off of Northbound Highway 67, struck a guardrail, and overturned at around 6:15 am Monday morning.
Thomas, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected from the vehicle. He was taken to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.
NAYLOR MAN ALLEGEDLY FOUND IN POSSESSION OF MULTIPLE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES A Naylor man was taken into custody Friday on multiple felony drug charges.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell us that 55 year old Jeffrey Chambers was arrested Friday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for tramadol and diazepam.
Chambers is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.
WINTER WEATHER DRIVING TIPS With winter weather hitting the area, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging motorists to exercise caution while driving.
The patrol says planning ahead can help in case of an emergency. Before you travel, make certain your vehicle is in good working condition.
The Highway Patrol suggests keeping your fuel tank at least half full. Place an ice scraper, tire chains, battery booster cables, blankets, flashlight, and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk.
Also, take the time to make sure the windows are completely cleared to ensure visibility and clear your driveway so that your vehicle enters the roadway safely. Allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed.
Road conditions are available online by going to the Patrol’s website www.mshp.dps.mo.gov and clicking on the Road Condition icon.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE IN SIKESTON TO HOST JOB FAIR FOR WORKERS AFFECTED BY NORANDA LAYOFFS A job fair has been scheduled for early February for workers who were laid off from Noranda Aluminum.
The Community Resource and Job Fair will be held at Three Rivers College in Sikeston on Friday, February 5th.
The fair will run from 9 am to 3:30 pm.
BOND SET AT $100,000 FOR MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT AND ATTEMPTED ROBBERYBond has been set at $100,000 cash for a man recently arrested on assault and attempted robbery charges.
According to the Malden Police Department, Thursday night employees at an area convenience store alerted police that a man who appeared to be suffering from severe injuries had entered the store.
The victim told police that he had been struck several times with what appeared to be a black pistol.
An investigation into the incident led to the arrest of Tavion Young on charges of 1st degree assault, armed criminal action, and 1st degree attempted robbery.
BLODGETT MAN CHARGED WITH CHILD ABUSE Authorities in Scott County have arrested an area man for alleged child abuse.
Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that 39 year old Juan Gonzales Morin Jr., of Blodgett is facing a charge of abuse of a child.
The charge stems from an investigation conducted last week, during which officials observed obvious injuries on a 13 year old child.
Morin allegedly struck the child in the face multiple times, slammed the child’s head into a wall, and beat the child with a clothes hanger and a belt among other allegations.
Walter says Morin was arrested Friday and admitted to some of the allegations.
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY Authorities say a Southeast Missouri man is facing multiple child pornography related charges following his arrest in New Madrid County.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 49 year old Casey Bailey, of Canalou, was taken into custody at around 10:30 Friday morning.
Bailey has been charged with possession of child pornography and 1st degree promoting child pornography. Bailey was taken to the New Madrid County Jail and his bond was set at $50,000.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT WARNS OF PHONE SCAM The Poplar Bluff Police Department is warning area residents to be on guard for a phone scam.
David Sutton with the Police Department tells us that they have received a large number of attempted stealing complaints over the past several days. The victims said they received an automated message which advised they were being sued by the IRS; and urged the victim to call a number immediately.
The Poplar Bluff Police Department encourages anyone who receives such a call to hang up immediately. Any unsolicited calls asking or demanding for money should be considered suspicious.
PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE A Piedmont man is facing a felony drug charge in connection to his arrest Sunday evening in Wayne County.
According to authorities, 37 year old Stacie Black was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.
Black is also facing charges of failure to display valid plates and no seatbelt.
ACTIVE SHOOTER LOCKDOWN AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOL CAUSED BY POPPING BALLOONS A Northeast Arkansas school was put on lockdown Friday for an active shooter alert; however the real cause was much less dangerous.
Black River Technical College says the cause for the alert was the sound of popping balloons which were mistaken as gunshots. The school was on lockdown for a little over an hour.
The college says that a counselor will be on site this week for students and employees who wish to discuss the incident.
DUDLEY MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON STATUTORY SODOMY WARRANT Authorities say a Dudley man has been taken into custody on a sodomy warrant.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old Bobby Lynn Slavings was recently arrested on a warrant for 2nd degree statutory sodomy.
Slavings bond was set at $25,000 and he has bonded out.
DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY Anyone looking to take a driving test today will have to wait for tomorrow.
Driver examination stations throughout the state of Missouri are closed today in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says normal operations will resume on Tuesday.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY MARIJUANA CHARGES
A Poplar Bluff man is facing a felony drug charges in connection to his arrest on Wednesday
Captain J.R. Keirsey with the Poplar Bluff Police Department says, Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Butler County Sheriff Department, SEMO Drug Task Force, and the Missouri Highway Patrol was serving a Grand Jury Indictment to a residence on Kaylee Circle in Poplar Bluff.
Upon contact with 36 year old Stanley Preston Jones of Poplar Bluff at the residence, officers detected a strong odor of marijuana omitting from within the residence. While speaking with officers, Jones admitted to recently smoking marijuana and granted consent to search his residence. During the consensual search, officers located a felony amount of marijuana and marijuana along with numerous items of drug paraphernalia.
Jones was arrested and booked on the charges of felony possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Jones was released to his attorney, pending lab analysis and review per prosecuting attorney.
MAN ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS IN CONNECTION TO FATAL WRECKA Poplar Bluff man is facing a homicide charge in connection to fatal wreck.
According to authorities, 23 year old Bruce Stevens was arrested Thursday on a negligent homicide charge. The charge is in connection to a February 2015 fatal wreck near Pocahontas that resulted in the death of 81 year old Jim Austin, of Peach Orchard.
Stevens’s blood was tested after the wreck and he reportedly had a blood alcohol content of .082 as well as diazepam and cannabinoids in his blood.
PIEDMONT WOMAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST A Piedmont woman is facing a felony drug charge in connection to her arrest Thursday night in Wayne County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Amy Duncan was arrested shortly before 9 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Following her arrest, Duncan was held at the Wayne County Jail.
BATTLE OF BUTLER COUNTY SET FOR TONIGHT The 2016 Battle of Butler County game between the Twin Rivers Royals and Poplar Bluff Mules will tip off tonight at the Poplar Bluff High School and many are wondering how the ongoing construction will affect parking at the game.
We spoke with Poplar Bluff High School Principal Mike Kenney about the situation.
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You can hear the action live tonight on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as online at KWOC.com.
WAPPAPELLO MAN FACING DRUG CHARGE Authorities say a Wappapello man has been taken into custody on a felony meth charge.
38 year old Curtis Myers was arrested Wednesday in Wayne County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.
Myers has also been charged with displaying the plates of another person, failure to register a motor vehicle, and no insurance.
SEVEN ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH SEX OFFENDER LAWS Seven convicted sex offenders were taken into custody Wednesday in Scott County for failing to comply with Missouri sex offender laws.
Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter says the arrests were made as a part of a roundup conducted Wednesday evening.
57 year old Johnny McAnulty of Miner, 63 year old Robert Guzman of Oran, 37 year old Kenneth Bramlett and 47 year old Robert Davis of Sikeston, 27 year old Andrew Johnson of Benton, and 30 year old James Kitchen and 52 year old Kevin Mason of Scott City were all arrested and charged with failure to register.
Walter says three individuals are still at large, 33 year old Calvin Scott, 38 year old James Triplett, and 30 year old Andrew Washington, all of Sikeston.
Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 573-545-3525.
POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT Poplar Bluff Middle School will be hosting a Dodgeball Tournament on January 23rd for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The event will start at 10 am at the Poplar Bluff High School gym.
All teams must be coed and can have up to 10 players. The cost is $5 per person and anyone above 7th grade can participate. In addition, there will also be a best t-shirt design contest and a most creative team name contest.
Teams can register online at www.poplarbluffschools.net.
100 percent of the proceeds will go to St. Jude. For more information, call Melanie Schalk at 785-5566.
AG EXPO TO OPEN AT 1 PM TODAY Multiple events are on the schedule for the opening day of Ag Expo at the Black River Coliseum.
Doors will open at the Coliseum at 1 pm and attendees can check out over 118 agriculture exhibits that will be at the event.
In addition there will also be the 4-H/FFA public speaking contest at 4 pm, the milking contest at 5:30 pm, and the duck calling and toy tractor pedal pull contest that will both start at 6 pm.
Educational events scheduled for Friday include the private applicator training at 2 pm, grain bin safety at 5 pm, and soil fertility for forage at 6:15 pm.
Admission to Ag Expo is $1 for adults. Youth and college students get in for free. For more information, call 686-8064.
ROUNDUP 011416 SMTEN POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS ARRESTED WEDNESDAY ON DRUG WARRANTS Authorities say ten Poplar Bluff residents were taken into custody Wednesday on drug warrants.
According to authorities, nine of the arrests were for felony Butler County warrants for sale of a controlled substance.
The nine arrested were 26 year old Samuel Brown, 31 year old Ladonna McCain, 40 year old John Beckham, 21 year old Shawn Jackson, 20 year old Aaron Dennis, 31 year old Mark Buchanan, 69 year old Bennie Holloway, 64 year old Susan Foushee, and 33 year old Miranda Gregory.
A 10th person, 31 year old Matthew Holmes, was arrested on a felony Butler County warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
The arrests were all made over a three hour period on Wednesday. The roundup was a joint operation conducted by the SEMO Drug Task Force, Poplar Bluff Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING BODY DISCOVERED NEAR LESTERVILLE Authorities in Reynolds County are investigating a body that was found Wednesday morning.
According to authorities, the body was discovered south of Lesterville, near the Black River.
The person’s identity or cause of death were not available, however an autopsy has been scheduled for today.
OVER 450 EMPLOYEES TO LOSE THEIR JOBS AT NORANDA IN NEW MADRID Over 450 people will be losing their jobs in New Madrid as a part of cuts announced Wednesday by Noranda Aluminum Holding Corporation.
The company stated in a release that a workforce reduction began Wednesday that will involve approximately 190 employees. Around 75% of the total reduction relates to staffing adjustments at the New Madrid smelter.
Employees at the New Madrid smelter were also informed that approximately 350 additional employees will be terminated or laid off by February 4th.
Noranda says the cuts are principally designed to reduce costs in the company's integrated upstream aluminum business.
AG EXPO TO BEGIN TOMORROW AT BLACK RIVER COLISEUM It almost time for the 2016 Ag Expo.
This year is the 30th anniversary of the Butler County Ag Expo and there are many attractions and exhibits planned over the two day event.
Some of the events scheduled for the expo include the milking, duck calling, and toy tractor pedal pull contests, an old time auction, and the beauty pageant.
Admission is $1 for adults. Youth and college students get in for free. For more information, call 686-8064.
TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ARMED ROBBERY INVESTIGATION Poplar Bluff police have arrested two men in connection to an armed robbery investigation.
We spoke with Detective Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the arrest.
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Both Leech and Carter have reportedly had previous contacts with law enforcement in the past.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE A Poplar Bluff woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest.
According to authorities, 25 year old Whitney Retherford was arrested in Butler County shortly before 5 pm Wednesday.
Retherford was taken to the Butler County Jail on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON SEX ABUSE WARRANT A Dexter man was recently taken into custody on a sex related warrant.
The Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tells us that 20 year old Hunter Allen Chadd was arrested on a warrant for 1st degree sex abuse with physical harm. Details about the incident that led to the warrant were not available.
Chadd’s bond was set at $5,000 and he has since bonded out.
STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing Route U in Stoddard County today to replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.
According to MoDOT officials the work zone will be located between County Road 675 and Route MM.
Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3 pm.
O'Neal Elementary and other schools in the Poplar Bluff R-I School District are joining thousands of schools around the country to take part in the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Math-A-Thon, a free, education-based program for grades K-8 that benefits the hospital while helping kids improve their math skills. Participating ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
The Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation is accepting applications for three scholarships to be awarded in the spring. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2016. Applications are available below (a zip file of all 3 is available here), at the Poplar Bluff Senior High School Counseling Center and ...read more
Source: Poplar Bluff Mules
