Thursday April 13, 2017

SIX ARRESTED ON HEROIN CHARGES IN POPLAR BLUFFPoplar Bluff authorities have arrested six people on heroin charges.

Narcotics Investigator Cory Mitchell with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that the arrests occurred Tuesday morning.

CORY MITCHELL:

On Tuesday morning during the early hours, approximately 6 am, members of the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Southeast Missouri drug task force, DEA, ATF, the US Marshal Service, executed several search warrants within Poplar Bluff and Butler County, Missouri at two local motels and a residence in Poplar Bluff where a substantial quantity, approximately a half ounce of heroin in total, was recovered and seized and the arrest of six individuals. The six individuals that were arrested during this investigation was Cody Marks, Dominique Jones, Bradley Jordan, Cameron Cook, Demetrius Taylor, and Jessica Doyle. Five of the six we're going to be requesting charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and that's on all the male subjects and on the female is going to be possession of heroin and methamphetamine drug paraphernalia for Doyle.

Narcotics Investigator Jason Morgan with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells us that additional heroin distributors have been identified as a part of the investigation.

JASON MORGAN:

It's just part of us doing our job through this investigation we were able to identify some lower to mid level distributors and this investigations also identified some upper-level distributors. Tuesday Morning we arrested six lower to mid level dealers and through this investigation we've also identified some upper-level distributors of heroin in our community. We’re targeting them as well. Not only through the proactive efforts of the Poplar Bluff Police Department and the drug task force is involved, what makes these cases for us is the efforts of the public providing information, family members providing information about their loved ones being addicted to heroin. The family members knowing where the loved ones are getting the drugs and reporting that to us, those are all beneficial key components of helping us further these investigations and as long as we have the public support we’ll continue to make arrests.

DEXTER WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Dexter woman on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Robin Currie was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Currie also reportedly had a misdemeanor warrant from the Dexter Police Department for shoplifting.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT Area residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused or expired medication later this month.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department will be taking part in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 29th from 10 am to 2 pm.

Participants must simply drive up to the police department and an officer will collect their medications. The Police Department has asked that no hypodermic needles or aerosol inhalers be brought.

For more information or to find a collection site near you go online to www.dea.gov.

MAN FACING ASSAULT CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF One man was injured Tuesday evening in connection to a shooting in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department who told us that the shooting reportedly stemmed from an altercation at an area business.

JOSH STEWART:

On Tuesday evening at approximately 9:35 p.m. officers of the Poplar Bluff Police Department were dispatched to the 1100 block of North 11th Street in reference to shots fired. Once in the area they contacted the two victims, a thirty-one-year-old resident of Poplar Bluff, who was suffering injuries from glass in his eye and a twenty-one-year-old Poplar Bluff resident suffering no injuries. In speaking with the two it was learned that the shooting stemmed from an earlier altercation at Hucks. The victims advised that they suspected twenty-one-year-old Sikeston resident Dearius Vance to be responsible for the shooting. Mr. Vance's vehicle information was disseminated to area law enforcement. At approximately 4 o'clock a.m. officers with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety contacted Mr. Vance during a traffic stop. Mr. Vance was taken into custody and transported back to Poplar Bluff. Additionally during the contact in Sikeston, a Smith & Wesson 9 millimeter handgun was located. Vance was processed and is currently lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on charges of assault first, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. The 31-year old Poplar Bluff resident suffering injuries was treated and released at a area hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF ATHLETIC DIRECTOR WARNS OF FRAUD ATTEMPTS A Poplar Bluff School Official says that city residents are again being targeted for fraud.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the Poplar Bluff Athletic Department does not use outside companies to solicit donations on their behalf. Keith says that only he or their coaching staff will contact you if they are seeking donations for any athletic activity.

Anyone who has any doubt about any call requesting funds for the Athletic Department should contact Keith’s office.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route MM in Dunklin County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located between Route J and County Road 122.

MoDOT officials say that the work will take place from 7 am to 4 pm.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY

  A man has been flown to a St. Louis hospital following a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old William Singleton, of Mill Spring, was driving on Missouri Highway 49 near Ellsinore, when his vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree.

Singleton suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis.

  MISSISSPPI COUNTY SHERIFF’S ATTORNEY SAYS HIS CLIENT WILL PLEAD NOT GUILTY TO CHARGES

  Updating a story we brought to you last week, an attorney for Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson says that his client is looking forward to continuing his work and dedicating himself to the citizens of Mississippi County.

A spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC news that Hutcheson is facing charges in two separate cases. In the first complaint, Hutcheson faces seven counts of forgery and seven counts of tampering with computer data.

In the second complaint, Hutcheson is charged with second degree assault, first degree robbery, and false declaration. Hutcheson is also accused of writing a probable cause statement claiming a woman kidnapped and assaulted Hutcheson's family member.

Hutcheson's attorney Scott Rosenblum says that his client will enter a plea of not guilty and that they are confident that once the facts come out, the prosecution of Sheriff Hutcheson will be shown to be misguided and politically motivated.

  TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Two people were taken into custody Tuesday afternoon in Butler County on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Ryan Melton, of Poplar Bluff, and 25 year old Alexandra Burke, of Parma, were each arrested at approximately 3:42 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Both are also each facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, they were each transported to the Butler County Jail.

  TWO FACING BURGLARY CHARGES OUT OF EAST PRAIRIE

  Two East Prairie residents are facing burglary and other charges following an incident over the weekend.

Officials with the East Prairie Police Department tell KWOC News that on Saturday, officers responded to an area residence and learned that the residence had allegedly been burglarized by 46 year old Terry Dean and 40 year old Shawna Johnson.

Both Dean and Johnson were later taken into custody at Dean’s residence. Two juveniles at Dean’s residence had been reportedly made to stay inside the home all day without being fed and told not to answer the door. Both juveniles are safe and were unharmed.

Officers also found about a pound of marijuana at the residence.

Both Dean and Johnson have been charged with burglary 1st degree, domestic assault 4th, and child abuse or neglect of a child.

  BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

  A Bernie man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

According to authorities, 31 year old Gary Uhl was taken into custody in Stoddard County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of prescription medication, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Uhl also reportedly had two misdemeanor warrants out of Butler County.

  PERMANENT MEDICINE DROP BOX SET UP AT DONIPHAN POLICE DEPARTMENT

  A drop box has been set up for residents in the Doniphan area to drop off expired and unused medication.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the permanent drop box is available 24 hours a day in the police department lobby.

Officials say that needles, sharps, ointments, liquids, aerosol cans, inhalers, and thermometers cannot be accepted at the drop box.

Tuesday April 11, 2017

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CHARGEAn incident on Saturday has resulted in the arrest of an area man on an assault on a law enforcement officer charge.

KWOC News spoke with Chief Deputy Wes Popp with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department about the incident.

WESS POPP:

On Saturday afternoon at about 2:30 a call came in to the Butler County Sheriff's Department on a domestic in progress where a male identified as Shawn Burkett was beating up his girlfriend Cynthia Jones. Officers arrived and were met outside by Cynthia Jones who stated her boyfriend Shawn Burkett had been abusing her in the past so she was going to move and was in the process of packing all her personal belongings when Burkett showed up at the house. Burkett began beating Miss Jones about the face back of the head and arms leaving several wounds along with bleeding to the back of her head. Burkett fled the residence upon the officers arriving. As they were interviewing Miss Jones, another officer saw Burkett’s vehicle parked and as they were looking at the vehicle they see Burkett running back from the vehicle to the back of the house and made entry into the residence. Officers knocked on the door for him to open it up they had a warrant for his arrest for past incidences along with the current of the assault to the girlfriend. Jones refused, an officer reached through a broken window of the door pane to open up the door and as he entered Burkett threw a chair at the officer along with holding a small bat. Officers commanded him to drop the bat, which he did, it was then he turn and ran down the hallway where he was met by other officers taking him into custody without any further incident. Shawn Burkett is being housed at the Butler County Sheriff's Department for assault 2nd on a law enforcement officer, domestic assault 3rd, resisting arrest, and also a arrest warrant for burglary for $20,000.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Monday afternoon in Stoddard County on felony drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Michael Spencer was arrested shortly before 3 pm Monday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for oxycodone and hydrocodone.

Following the arrest, Spencer was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD Route H in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews cam replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to MoDOT the closure will be located from County Road 660 to County Road 670.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 4 pm.

POWER OUTAGE EFFECTED PARTS OF BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTY MONDAY AFTERNOON Parts of eastern Butler County and western Stoddard County were without power Monday afternoon.

At around 2 pm a tree fell on a power line along County Road 275 in Stoddard County and knocked out power for about 2000 people in the Fisk and Dudley areas.

Power was restored just over an hour later.

AREA POLICE CELEBRATE NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators week and multiple area police departments are celebrating their communications departments.

Lieutenant Darron Moore with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC about what this week means.

DARRON MOORE:

Today through April 15th is the National Public Safety Telecommunicators week. It’s a week that’s set aside to recognize the men and women that answer the phone and the radio every day across this country for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Most folks don't realize it, but dispatchers are basically they're the first officer on the scene, the answer 9-1-1, they handle all records checks for wanted individuals, they also send all the messages and basically tie all the police departments and fire departments in together Nationwide into one web of agencies. Communications officers are one of the most important parts of any investigation, from the get-go they're the ones that get the information whether there's a weapon on scene whether there's a victim already that needs medical attention and basically make or break an investigation. Chief Communications Officer Kim Johnson and Assistant Chief Communications Officer Dave Williams along with the other officers at our Comm Center, they go through a yearly review or yearly continuing education, they also take numerous classes. The City of Poplar Bluff and County of Butler in general are very lucky that here at the Poplar Bluff Police Department we have one of the most professional telecommunication centers in the region or I’d put them up against anyone in the country. They come in every day, they do their job 7 days a week 24 hours a day, oftentimes missing holidays and special events with their family just like anyone in law enforcement does.

You can find more information about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week online at www.npstw.org.

WAYNE COUNTY AUTHORITIES ASKING FOR INFORMATION IN CONNECTION TO VANDALISM IN THE PIEDMONT AREA Officials in Wayne County are asking for the public’s help following reports of vandalism Monday morning.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, several vehicles were vandalized and had their tires cut at Fir and 3rd Street in Piedmont during the early morning hours of Monday.

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to call the Piedmont Police Department or Wayne County Sheriff’s Department.

Monday April 10, 2017

ELLSINORE MAN FACING GUN AND METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGESAn Ellsinore man is facing felony gun and drug charges in connection to his arrest on Friday night.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old Jerry Davidson was taken into custody shortly before midnight Friday night on a felony charges of felony possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Davidson is also facing charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of marijuana.

Following his arrest, he was taken to the Butler County Jail.

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFERING SUPPORT TO VICTIMS OF IMPAIRED DRIVERS The Missouri State Highway Patrol is offering assistance to victims of impaired drivers.

The Patrol’s “Filling a V.O.I.D. program” has provided information, support, and assistance to victims and their families since 1997.

If you, a member of your family, or a passenger in your vehicle have been injured by an impaired driver, you are eligible for assistance through the program. Pedestrians or their family members who have been involved in an impairment-related traffic crash also qualify.

In 2016, troopers and the Patrol’s civilian advocate assisted 13 children, 118 adults, and 18 elderly persons through the program.

To utilize the “Filling a V.O.I.D.” civilian victim advocate and resources, go to the Patrol’s website and click on the V.O.I.D. link. The advocate can help you understand the criminal justice process, address your concerns, and request information. You can also call the Crime Victim Hotline 1-888-773-1800.

WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CARTER COUNTY ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE Authorities in Carter County have taken a Ste. Genevieve woman into custody on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Joanna Mills was arrested early Saturday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine.

She is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, Mills was transported to the Carter County Jail.

VAN BUREN MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST A Van Buren man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Christopher Crafton was taken into custody shortly 1pm Friday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Crafton is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT ON CONSERVATION AREAS The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeking public input on how three Southeast Missouri conservation areas are important to Missourians.

According to the Department of Conservation, the agency is in the multi-year process of updating Conservation Area Management Plans.

Management plans for the Coon Island Conservation Area, Maintz Wildlife Preserve, and the Stephen J. Sun Conservation Area are open for public review until April 30th.

The MDC is asking for comments from recreational users, neighboring landowners, conservation groups, elected officials, government agencies, and other interested persons or groups. To make a comment on the area plans, go online to www.mdc.mo.gov/areaplans.

PERIODIC LANE CLOSURES TO CONTINUE ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY THROUGH FRIDAY Continuing to follow a story we brought you last week, periodic lane closures will continue through this week in Butler County.

The closures will be due to the construction of the trail in the Route W area. The trail project is part of the Local Public Agencies Program.

The section of Route W affected is located from Business 67 to McLane Park in Poplar Bluff. Lane reductions will be in place as contractor crews pour concrete in the area.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through this Friday, from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL EGG-CESSIBLE EGG HUNT A Poplar Bluff church will be hosting an egg hunt this weekend.

The Second Annual Egg-cessible Egg Hunt will be held from 1 to 3 pm on Saturday, April 15th at West Side Church of God in Poplar Bluff.

Kids ages 12 and younger with special needs and developmental or physical disabilities are invited to the event and can also bring a friend to help during the hunt.

The event will also include a visit from the Easter Bunny and a goodie bag for all participants.

More information is available on the Eggcessible Community Easter Egg Hunt facebook page.

Friday April 7, 2017

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGESTwo Poplar Bluff residents were taken into custody early Thursday morning in Butler County on felony drug charges.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC news, 35 year old Cody Marks and 34 year old Miranda Gregory, both of Poplar Bluff, were arrested on a felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of marijuana.

Both are also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and Marks is being charged with driving while revoked.

Following their arrest, both were transported to the Butler County Jail.

SEVEN ARRESTS MADE DURING CHECKPOINT IN STODDARD COUNTY Seven arrests were made this past weekend during a sobriety checkpoint in Stoddard County.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that the checkpoint was held on April 1st and a total of 234 vehicles were stopped during the four-hour operation.

Of the seven arrests, one was for driving while intoxicated and the other six were misdemeanor drug arrests.

Troopers also issued 16 summonses and 45 warnings during the operation.

SPRING BREAK TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK FOR POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT The Poplar Bluff School District is scheduled to go on Spring Break next week.

School officials say that spring break will run this year from Thursday, April 13th through Monday, April 17th.

Classes will then resume for students on Tuesday, April 18th.

A SUCCESS ARKANSAS MAN INJURED FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Success, Arkansas man was injured Wednesday night following a single vehicle wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Jody Thomas, ran off the side of County Road 274 and hit a ditch.

Thomas suffered serious injuries in the wreck and taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff Hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ACCEPTING SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR HALF DAY PROGRAM The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the Half Day program of the 2017-2018 school year.

If you are a parent in the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District and has a child who will be three or four years old on July 31st, you can call 573-785-6803 for more information about having your child screened for the program.

The next screening will be held by appointment only on Thursday, May 25th. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.

5th ANNUAL PULL TAB DRIVE SCHEDUED FOR SATURDAY The 5th Annual Pull Tab Drive for Brandon Scott has been scheduled for this weekend.

The drive will be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday at the American Legion on PP Highway in Poplar Bluff.

The event will feature a sale of bake goods; pull tab bracelets, a silent auction, and a raffle. All proceeds from the event will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis.

Brandon Scott was diagnosed with leukemia at 23 months old and has been saving tabs for the Ronald McDonald House for 13 years.

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR YOUTH BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF The deadline is here to get your children signed up for baseball or softball in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the deadline youths age eight through 15 to register for baseball or softball is today.

You can find registration forms online at www.poplarbluff-mo.gov.

Thursday April 6, 2017

MISSISSIPPI COUNTY SHERIFF ARRESTED BY THE FBI NOW FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGESThe sheriff of Mississippi County has been arrested on several felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers assisted the FBI in arresting Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson on Wednesday afternoon.

A Spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC news, Hutcheson is facing charges in two separate cases. In the first case, Hutcheson faces seven counts of forgery and seven counts of tampering with computer data.

In the second case, Hutcheson is charged with second degree assault, first degree robbery, and false declaration. Hutcheson was transported to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Department, where he bonded out Wednesday afternoon.

Coroner Terry Parker is now serving as acting sheriff.

ATHLETE PHYSICALS SCHEDULED FOR JULY IN POPLAR BLUFF Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High student athletes can get a free physical done in July at the High School.

Physicals will be conducted beginning at 5:30 pm on Thursday July 20th for athletes in the 7th and 8th grades, beginning at 6:30 for 9th and 10th grades, and beginning at 7:30 for 11th and 12th grades.

First practice dates have also been set for Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High fall sports.

The first practice day for high school athletes is Monday, July 31st. Junior High athletes will follow two week later, on Monday, August 14th.

FIRST CHURCH OF GOD IN POPLAR BLUFF TO HOLD EASTER EGG HUNT THIS WEEKEND A Poplar Bluff Church is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt this weekend.

The hunt will begin at 3 pm Sunday at the First Church of God, located at 3482 South Westwood Boulevard. Church officials say that kids up to 12 years old can participate in the egg hunt, games, and door prizes.

A $100 gift card will also be given away at the event.

ADVANCE WOMAN INJURED FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK An Advance woman was injured Wednesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Scott County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Neeley Bollinger’s vehicle ran off the side of Route 91, struck a road sign, and then a ditch.

Bollinger suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and taken by ambulance to St. Francis Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

GAYLA FRITTS NAMED POPLAR BLUFF R-1 TEACHER OF THE YEAR The Poplar Bluff High School communications arts teacher has been named the R-I district Teacher of the Year.

Gayla Fritts received the award during the annual luncheon held last week.

Fritts was also named the secondary grade span Teacher of the Year, while sixth grade instructor Kathy Pattillo was named Middle School Teacher of the Year. O'Neal reading interventionist Jessica Thurston was chosen as the elementary Teacher of the Year.

A full list of the teacher of the year recipients is available on our website.

On the building level: Building trades teacher Joe Cochran was named the Technical Career Center TOY, Gayla Fritts - Senior High TOY, Eighth grade teacher Julie Gambill - Junior High TOY, Kathy Pattillo - Middle School TOY, Interventionist Amber Foster - O'Neal TOY, First grade instructor Abby Hanner - Oak Grove TOY, Third grade instructor Teresa Hefner - Lake Road TOY, Reading interventionist Jessica Thurston - Eugene Field TOY, Special education instructor Tanya Pullum - Kindergarten Center TOY, Preschool teacher Lori Tibbs - Early Childhood Center TOY.

VFW RIDERS POKER RUN SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY The VFW Riders District 15 West and Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church will be teaming up for a Poker Run on Saturday.

Registration for the event will begin at 9 am at the Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church on D Highway. The run will begin at 11 am.

All proceeds from the event will go to the VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff and Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

For more information, contact VFW Post 3416 at 573-222-9687.

9TH ANNUAL CAROLINE PERKINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH The 9th Annual Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser has been scheduled for later this month.

The event will be held from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday, April 14th, and 6 am to noon on Saturday, April 15th at the Old Lone Hill School Building at the end of Highway F off Highway 160.

There will be a large multi-family indoor yard sale as well as a bake sale and a raffle for a homemade quilt.

All proceeds from the event go to fund the Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship.

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF VOTERS CHOOSE DAVIS AND BLACK FOR CITY COUNCIL

  Voters in Poplar Bluff have decided who will be sitting on the Poplar Bluff City Council.

On Tuesday, voters chose Steven Davis and Ron Black for the two at large seats.

In Neelyville, James Collier won the race for Ward 1 Alderman by two votes and Kevin Bynum was elected Mayor.

According to officials, 2,997 people voted in Butler County during Tuesday’s election for a turnout of 11.48 percent.

  ROBERTSON AND SCOTT REELECTED TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD

  Multiple area school boards held elections yesterday in Butler County

For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott were both reelected and will be joined by Jerrod Murphy for three-year terms.

In the Twin Rivers School District voters in Butler County favored David Dugger, Billy Watson, and Roger Baxter for the three board seats. Baxter led Robert Thurman by only 14 votes and results from Stoddard County for the race were not available.

In Neelyville, the three school board board seats will be filled by Paul Petty, Dean Fisher, and Shane Eaker.

  MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOT FIRED IN POPLAR BLUFF

  A man was taken into custody following an incident Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

According to authorities, 29 year old Kenneth Maple Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was arrested in connection to an alleged shot being fired outside an area residence.

Maple was transported to the Butler County Jail.

  GIBSON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a Gibson man on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old George Odom was arrested Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance – alprazolam.

Odom is also facing a charge of driving while intoxicated.

Following the arrest, Odom was held at the Dunklin County Jail.

  LEADWOOD WOMAN FACING FLEEING CHARGE

  A Leadwood woman is facing a fleeing charge following her arrest Tuesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Shawnna Evans was arrested shortly before noon Tuesday in Ripley County on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing.

She is also facing a hindering prosecution charge.

Evans was transported to the Doniphan Police Department following the arrest.

PERIODIC LANE CLOSURES TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation says that periodic lane closures are scheduled to begin today in Butler County.

The closures will be due to the construction of the trail in the Route W area. The trail project is part of the Local Public Agencies Program.

The section of Route W affected is located from Business 67 to McLane Park in Poplar Bluff. Lane reductions will be in place as contractor crews pour concrete in the area.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, April 14th from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

Tuesday, April 4, 2017

SEATS ON THE POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL UP FOR ELECTION

  Seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council, as well as other city posts throughout Butler County, are up for election today.

Two Three year terms are being decided for at large seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council. Ron Black, Steven Davis, and Robert Lee Smith are all candidates for the two at large seats.

Voters in Neelyville will be selecting an alderman and a mayor today. James Collier, Kim Elliott, and John Knowles are all running for the Neelyville Ward 1 Alderman position.

Neeylville voters will also choose between Kevin Bynum, Linda Harris, and Lee McComb Jr. for Mayor.

  MULTIPLE SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS TO BE DECIDED TODAY

  Multiple area school boards will be holding elections today in Butler County.

For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers William Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are all vying for one of the three three-year terms.

In Twin Rivers, the candidates for three board seats are Roger Baxter, David Dugger, Brian Love, Keith Parker, Robert Thurman, and Billy Watson.

In Neelyville, five people are running for three board seats, Wayne Dye, Shane Eaker, Dean Fisher, Preston Gill, and Paul Petty.

For the East Carter School Board, voters will choose three of Johnathan Collins, Stonie Croy, James Gore, George Meyers, and John Walker.

In the Doniphan School District, there are nine candidates for the three board seats, Brandon Armstrong, Stephan Burke, Denver Jackson, Jason Johnson, Joshua Killian, Rocky Moe, James Maple, Robert Morrow, and John Wright.

  SENATH MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

  A Senath man was flown to a Memphis hospital Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Stacy Rice was driving an ATV on County Road 531 when he struck a pothole and overturned.

Rice was seriously injured in the wreck and taken to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.

A passenger on the ATV suffered minor injuries.

  MISSOURI OFFICIAL BEGINS AUDIT OF PEMISCOT COUNTY HOSPITAL

  The Missouri State Auditor is conducting an audit of a Southeast Missouri hospital.

Last week, Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway announced the start of an audit of the Pemiscot County Memorial Hospital in Hayti.

Galloway says that the goal of the audit is to identify key factors impacting finances for the Pemiscot County Hospital.

The audit will occur as part of a series of audits of county hospitals, which will focus on financial and operating best practices for acute care facilities that are critical to individuals who live and work in rural communities.

Individuals with information on the audit may contact the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline by calling 800-347-8597.

  POPLAR BLUFF ROTARY CLUB TO HOST SPAGHETTI DAY TODAY

  The Poplar Bluff Rotary Club will be hosting a spaghetti day later today.

The event is scheduled for 11 am to 1 pm and 5 to 7 pm on April 4th at 1st Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Tickets will cost $5.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON BUSINESS 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

  Business 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane starting today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of Business 60 to be reduced is located from Route AD to Two Mile Road.

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

  INTERSTATE 55 TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPARIS

  Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from mile marker nine to mile marker ten.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed from 7 am to 5 pm.

Monday April 3, 2017

QULIN WOMAN AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISIONA Qulin woman has been taken to a Memphis hospital after she was involved in a wreck over the weekend.

According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle pulled into the path of a freightliner shortly after 10:30 am Saturday on Highway 53 in Butler County.

The driver of the vehicle, 78 year old Dorothy Kinney was seriously injured in the wreck and taken by Air Evac to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest Friday night.

According to the Highway Patrol, 20 year old Colton Cowan was taken into custody shortly before midnight Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Cowan is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTEDLY BEING USED IN THE SIKESTON AREA Authorities say that counterfeit money is reportedly being used in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Miner Police department, they have received information about the usage of counterfeit $20 dollar bills in the Sikeston area.

Chief Griggs says that they are informing area businesses about the situation.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SET FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY Route N in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located between County Road 240 and Route 51 south.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

JUVENILE TURNS HIMSELF IN TO AUTHORITIES IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON SHOOTING A juvenile has turned himself in to authorities in connection to a Sikeston shooting.

Sergeant Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC NEWS that a victim was struck by a bullet on March 26th and taken to Missouri Delta Medical Center.

The victim was treated and released.

Witnesses reported that after they heard the shots, they observed a male suspect running away from the scene holding a small black handgun.

On Thursday, a sixteen year old Sikeston juvenile turned himself in when he was brought to Sikeston DPS by his mother.

The Scott County juvenile office was contacted and responded to Sikeston DPS headquarters where he was interviewed and later transported to the Mississippi County Juvenile Detention Center.

FIRE TRUCK OVERTURNS NEAR BLOOMFIELD Three people were injured when a fire truck crashed Sunday afternoon near Bloomfield.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the fire truck ran off the side of Highway M at around 2:40 pm Sunday and overturned.

The driver, 27 year old Jason Patterson, of Bloomfield, and two passengers suffered minor injuries and were taken to a Dexter hospital.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County say that a Dexter man was recently taken into custody.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 56 year old Ruben Prunty was arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.

His bond was set at $50,000 cash.

ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY SCHEDULED TO BE CLOSED TODAY AND TOMORROW A portion of Route N in Butler County will be closed today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform culvert replacement.

According to MoDot, the closure will be located between County Road 243 and County Road 232.

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

Friday March 31, 2017

BERNIE POLICE ATTEMPTING TO IDENTIFY PERSON OF INTEREST IN AREA BURGLARYPolice in Bernie are trying to identify a man in connection to an area burglary.

According to the Bernie Police Department, the burglary occurred at a business in the city.

Pictures of the person of interest have been posted on the Bernie Police Department Facebook page. Anyone who has information about the identity of the man is asked to contact Sergeant Eddie Mays at 293-4454.

SUSPECT TASED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FIGHT WITH OFFICERS IN STEELE A Steele man is facing charges after he allegedly attempted to fight with police officers.

According to the Steele Police Department, on March 25th officers responded to an area business in reference to a shoplifter. When they arrived, they attempted to arrest the suspect, who has been identified as 35 year old Lawrence Arender.

The suspect resisted arrest and began to fight with officers. An officer deployed his taser and Arender was subsequently detained. Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield received minor injuries while attempting to arrest Arender.

A warrant was issued charging Arender with shoplifting, resisting arrest, and assault on a law enforcement officer.

RIVER CLEAN UP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND The 2017 River Cleanup event has been scheduled for this weekend on streams and trails at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The event will be held from 9 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow, with registration beginning at 8 am each day. At 5 pm Saturday evening there will be a meal and entertainment for participants at the Alley Spring Pavilion sponsored by the Ozark Heritage Project.

For more information, contact Cathy Runge at 573-323-4806.

TWO PEOPLE PLEAD GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Two people have pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges in connection to a fatal wreck last October.

According to authorities, Robert Huffines, of Holcomb, and Lea Mamino, of Collinsville, Illinois, both pleaded guilty Thursday to charges including manslaughter and fleeing.

Both Huffines and Mamino had been involved in a pursuit with police that crossed from Southeast Missouri to Northeast Arkansas. As the pursuit entered Rector, a deputy’s patrol car collided with another vehicle unrelated to the pursuit.

84 year old Sadine Dixon was killed in the collision. The deputy was injured and taken to an area hospital.

SUBSTANTIAL AMMOUNT OF METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZED IN STEELE Authorities in Steele are reporting that a substantial amount of methamphetamine was seized yesterday.

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that 29 year old Justin Rash, of Steele, was arrested Thursday on a federal warrant charging him with distribution of methamphetamine.

During the arrest officers located and seized a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine.

Stanfield says that multiple agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S Marshal Service, Caruthersville Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Pemiscot County Sheriff Department participated in the arrest.

WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH SPRING FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND Preparations are underway for the annual Whole Kids Outreach Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Festival.

Officials tell us that the festival is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 1st, with the egg hunt beginning at 11 am. Children will need to bring their own Easter Baskets.

There will also be games, prizes, pony rides, and a free lunch.

Whole Kids Outreach is located on Highway 21, five miles south of Ellington. For more information, call 573-663- 3257.

Wednesday March 29, 2017

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE OVERNIGHT TONIGHT  

Southeast Missouri is facing another possible round of severe weather tonight.

KWOC News spoke with Rick Shanklin, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, who says the chances of severe thunderstorms will start at around midnight.

RICK SHANKLIN:

Thunder storm chances will be increasing across Southeast Missouri this evening and that will include a chance of severe thunderstorms from around midnight through the overnight hours and into Thursday morning. Currently the risk across Southeast Missouri is at the slight level, that's a level 2 of 5. We’re watching that closely there is some possibility if the dynamics change or increase that that could be upgraded a bit across Southeast Missouri later today. The threats for Southeast Missouri include large hail and damaging thunderstorm winds which is perhaps the greatest chance or greatest risk for this event and also there is some possibility with this given the strong wind fields of a few tornados so we'll have to watch that very closely as well. The main thing is staying safe of course during this and all severe weather potential events across our region that means number one staying informed that includes ensuring you have a way to receive alerts such as a weather radio and having fresh batteries in that weather radio is critical, power outages are not uncommon during severe weather events, sometimes the power grid is taken out before the storm gets to you. A cell phone with text alerting capability is another good way to receive alerts and I would really encourage everybody to have a couple of ways to receive alerts especially for these overnight events as we know the likelihood of someone being hurt or killed in overnight events is considerably greater than it is during the day time actually two and a half times as likely between midnight and 6 a.m.

PARAGOULD WOMAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION

A Paragould woman has died from injuries she received Tuesday in a head on collision.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 8 am Tuesday on Highway 412 in Greene County.

A vehicle driven by 20 year old Kayla McNamara reportedly crossed over the middle turning lane and struck a trash truck head on.

Officials say McNamara was killed in the wreck.

GREENVILLE MAN FACING FELONY FIREARM CHARGE

Authorities in Wayne County have arrested a Greenville man on a felony firearm charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Jimmy Smith was taken into custody shortly before 9:30 pm Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a firearm.

Smith is also facing a felony charge of driving while revoked.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The work zone will be located from Route ZZ to County Road 660.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF BASKETBALL PLAYER CHOSEN AS MISSOURI’S NOMINATION FOR SPIRIT OF SPORT AWARD

A Poplar Bluff High School basketball player has been selected as Missouri’s nominee for the National High School Spirit of Sport award.

Freshman Savannah Hicks was diagnosed last year with atrial septal defect, which is a hole between the two upper chambers of the heart.

On November 22^nd, she received successful open-heart surgery at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis. She played her first game of the season six weeks later on January 6^th.

Dr. Kerwin Urhahn, the executive director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, nominated Hicks for the award because she exceeded expectations, overcame challenging circumstances, and displayed exemplary sportsmanship.

Tuesday March 28, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN GETS PROBATION ON ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD CHARGEA Poplar Bluff woman was sentenced earlier this month on a charge of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.

According to Missouri Case Net, Vanessa May was sentenced to 5 years supervised probation with a suspended seven year prison sentence.

May, along with Michael West, was arrested last May after their 12 year old son was reportedly found kept in an empty bedroom with concrete floors and no lighting.

The child had numerous suspicious scars and bruises and medical evaluations found evidence of severe physical abuse, suggestive of torture, with the risk of serious complications to include death.

According to Case Net, West was sentenced in January to six years incarceration in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TESTING SUSPENDED IN MALDEN Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process has been suspended at the Malden Driver Examination Station until further notice.

According to Captain Jeffrey N. Vitale, the motorcycle skills testing is being offered on Fridays in Poplar Bluff at 10 am, when pavement is dry.

Vitale says written examinations and Class E and Class F skills tests will still be offered in Malden as normally scheduled.

ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD FORUM SCHEDULED TODAY Candidates for the Poplar Bluff School Board will gather today to answer questions from the public.

The annual school board forum, hosted by Missouri NEA and MSTA, has been scheduled for today in the Middle School Library.

Five candidates, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers Bill Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are vying for three-year terms on the Board of Education.

The public has been invited to participate and submit questions for the school board candidates.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS IN RIPLEY COUNTY THROUGH EARLY MAY Route 142 in Ripley County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction through early May as contractor crews replace the bridge rails.

The bridge involved is located between Route N and County Road E-30 over Logan Creek.

According to MoDOT work will be performed today through Friday, May 5th. The work zone will be set-up for 24-hours a day.

DONIPHAN MAN AIRLIFTED TO POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Doniphan man was injured Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Christopher Walsh was taken by Air Evac to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center after his vehicle ran off of US 160, struck an embankment and tree, and then overturned.

Walsh suffered serious injuries in the wreck.

  WOMAN ARRESTED ON TRAFFICKING DRUGS CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Over 10 ounces of meth was found during a traffic stop over the weekend in New Madrid County.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, deputies conducted the stop Sunday near Marston.

During the traffic stop, deputies located approximately 13 ounces of methamphetamine. The driver, Tara Birdwell was arrested and charged with felony 1st degree trafficking drugs.

Her bond was set at $50,000 cash.

ALMOST SIX MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced with an 11 foot width restriction over almost six months as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone will be located from Route 412 to County Road 410.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, September 15th from 7 am to 7 pm daily.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT TO BE HONORED AS ONE OF TOP 100 SCHOLARS IN MISSOURI A Poplar Bluff High School student will be honored next month among the 100 top scholars in the state from the graduating Class of 2017.

Senior Humza Siddiqui will be honored as a part of the Missouri Scholars 100 Program during a luncheon in Columbia sponsored by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.

Qualifying students in the program must complete the "academic decathlon," which includes multiple criteria, including a score of at least 29 points on the ACT or 1900 on the SAT, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.75, being in the top 10 percent of their class, no more than 20 absences throughout their high school career, and participation in a significant community service project.

Monday, March 27, 2017

PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI UNDER RISK FOR SEVERE WEATHER TODAY

  Another storm system is crossing Southeast Missouri today and weather officials say that severe weather is a possibility.

According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible, mainly this afternoon and evening, with the approach and passage of a cold front.

Much of Southeast Missouri has at least a slight risk for severe storms today, with some areas in the extreme Southeast corner of the state showing an enhanced risk.

The primary threat will be damaging winds, with large hail being the secondary threat. Officials say that a tornado or two is not out of the question.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE STILL SEARCHING FOR ARMED AND DANGEROUS MAN

  Authorities in Poplar Bluff are continuing to search for an armed and dangerous man.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that the Poplar Bluff Police Department is seeking the whereabouts of Daniel Bright, who is wanted for questioning regarding a burglary that took place on March 4th.

Several firearms were reportedly taken from a residence during the burglary.

Whiteley says Bright is known to be armed and dangerous and has an active warrant for his arrest for a parole violation and for failure to appear in the Poplar Bluff Municipal Court.

Anyone with any information of Bright’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department or their local law enforcement agency.

  TWO AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER VEHICLE OVERTURNS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Two Poplar Bluff residents have been air lifted to a Memphis hospital after a vehicle they were in overturned near Holcomb.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 3 pm Saturday afternoon on Missouri Highway 25.

A vehicle, driven by a 17 year old female from Poplar Bluff, reportedly ran off the road, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Two passengers in the vehicle, 20 year old Demarcus Leech and a 16 year old female, were seriously injured and taken by Air Evac to Region One Health in Memphis. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Twin Rivers Medical Center.

  93 YEAR OLD BLOOMFIELD MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR THE WAPPAPELLO DAM

  A 93 year old Bloomfield man was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital Sunday following a wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Walter Butler ran off the side of Route T before striking an embankment and parked vehicle near the Wappapello Dam in Wayne County.

Butler was seriously injured and transported by Air Evac to St. Francis Medical Center.

  CLUBB MAN SUFFERES SERIOUS INJURIES IN WRECK NEAR SILVA

  An area man has serious injuries after hitting a tree over the weekend in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 36 year old Timothy Allen, of Clubb, was driving on Highway 34, near Silva, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and struck a tree. The wreck occurred shortly after 5 pm Saturday evening.

Allen suffered serious injuries and was air lifted to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

  DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHAREGS

  A Doniphan man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jered Lloyd was arrested Saturday evening on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Lloyd also reportedly had a warrant out of Ripley County for 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

Following the arrest, he was held at the Doniphan Police Department.

  DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  A Dexter man was recently taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old George Pulliam Jr. was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

His bond was set at $15,000, cash only, and he remained in jail as of this morning.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55

  Southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from mile marker three to mile marker one.

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

Friday, March 24, 2017

WOMAN REPORTED MISSING OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

  A Wayne County woman who is a double amputee has reportedly been missing since February.

Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells us more about the situation.

“2/27/17, Rebecca “Becky” Alsup was reported missing to our department, she was last seen in the Williamsville, Missouri area. The last reported contact with Becky with a friend on 2/15 of 17. She could have possibly been in the Poplar Bluff area.

Becky is a double amputee and has prosthetic legs but she also uses a wheelchair. Becky’s age of disappearance is 34 years old. She is a white female, hair brown, eyes brown, she’s 5’6, 125 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at 573-224-3219 or the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500”

We have a picture of Rebecca Alsup available on our Facebook page.

  TWO WRECKS OCCUR WITHIN FIVE MINUTES ON US 67

  Two people were injured following two wrecks Thursday evening in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the first wreck occurred when 19 year old Destiny Kline, of Poplar Bluff, allegedly pulled her vehicle into the path of a vehicle.

Kline suffered moderate injuries, while no injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle, 32 year old Jimmie Reed, of Fredericktown.

Less than five minutes later, an oncoming vehicle driven by 45 year old Charles Phillips, of Farmington, struck Reeds vehicle, which was still in the roadway from the previous wreck.

Phillips received minor injuries.

  ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO STOLEN FIREARMS

  A Sikeston man is facing charges in connection to stolen firearms.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, on Tuesday, detectives received information that 23 year old Anthony Price was in possession of firearms stolen from a home earlier this week.

Officers located Price and began a foot pursuit. During the pursuit, Price allegedly threw down a camo gun case which contained a stolen firearm. Additional stolen firearms and accessories were recovered during the search of an area residence.

Price has been charged with stealing a firearm, felony unlawful possession of a firearm, and felony resisting arrest. His bond was set at $15,000 cash only.

  2.4 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  An Earthquake caused some shaking Thursday in the Marston area.

According the United States Geological Survey, a 2.4 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 4:15 Thursday afternoon.

The earthquake located around three miles Northwest of Marston and had a depth of approximately four and a half miles.

  TWO ARRESTS MADE DURING ST. PATRICK’S DAY CRACKDOWN IN DEXTER

  Authorities in Dexter tell KWOC News that two arrests were made during a crackdown held around the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

According to the Dexter Police Department, 66 contacts were made during the crackdown, which ran from March 16th to March 19. Two arrests were made, one was a fugitive who was apprehended and the other was a drug arrest.

Officer’s also issued 1 stop sign violation, 9 speeding violations, 10 seat belt violations, 2 driving while suspended/revoked violations, and 2 uninsured motorists violations, in addition to 57 verbal warnings.

Thursday March 23, 2017

CAMPBELL MAN SENTENCED IN CONNECTION TO AREA ROBBERYA judge has sentenced an area man in connection to multiple armed robberies.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office in Cape Girardeau, 23 year old Alexander Whisnant, of Campbell, was sentenced Wednesday to over 12 years in prison on multiple charges, including armed robbery.

Whisnant was arrested last August in connection to robberies at multiple area businesses, including Motel 6 and Holiday Inn.

VEHICLE OVERTURNS INTO WATER FILLED DITCH IN STODDARD COUNTY An Essex woman has moderate injuries following a wreck last night in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Myrna Sprinkles was driving on Route AB at Birds Corner when her vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a tree, and overturned into a water filled ditch.

Following the wreck, Sprinkles was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO ARREST OF KENNETT MAN A traffic stop led to the arrest of a man Tuesday in Kennett.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News, that officers conducted the stop shortly before 11 pm Tuesday night.

While investigating the traffic stop, officers arrested John Rogers, of Kennett, for possession of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, Rogers was held at the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the State Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

FOUR INJURED IN WAYNE COUNTY WRECK Four people, including two children, were taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital Wednesday following a wreck in Wayne County.

According to authorities, the wreck occurred on County Road 407 when a vehicle ran off the side of the road, became airborne, struck a tree, and overturned.

The driver, 21 year old Samantha Gurney, of Poplar Bluff, and a passenger suffered moderate injuries. Two children in the vehicle received minor injuries.

SIKESTON MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE A Sikeston man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Wednesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Gary Curry was arrested at around 10:40 pm in New Madrid County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and driving while revoked.

Curry is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN RIPLEY COUNTY Route O in Ripley County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace two pipes under the roadway.

The work zone will be located at the Carter and Ripley County line.

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

DATE SET FOR INAUGURAL BERNIE COMMUNITY EGG HUNT A date has been set for the upcoming Inaugural Bernie Community Egg Hunt.

According to officials, the event will begin at 2 pm on April 1st at the Bernie City Park. The egg hunt is open to the community and there will be areas designated for specific age groups.

Businesses and churches can donate eggs by dropping them off at the Bernie Police Department or City Hall through the end of today. Donations need to include the name of the business or church, a description of contents inside the eggs, and contact information.

For more information, contact Marisa Farmer at 573-614-9228.

Wednesday March 22, 2017

ANOTHER ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO ASSAULT IN WAYNE COUNTYA woman who was being sought in connection to an assault last month in Wayne County has been arrested.

Officials with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that Tabitha Gallaher has been apprehended and is in custody.

Gallaher was wanted in connection to a violent crime involving an elderly man in early February. Three other people have been charged in connection to the incident.

MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES AFTER ALLEGEDLY RUNNING OVER BUSINESS OWNER A man is facing multiple charges in connection to an incident on Saturday.

According to Missouri Case Net, 68 year old Joseph Hunter, of New Madrid, has been charged with 1st degree assault, endangering a corrections employee by knowing causing the person to come in contact with bodily fluid, stealing, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in a physical injury.

According to authorities, Hunter, allegedly ran over a business owner as he was driving away from a restaurant after not paying a bill.

He was later taken into custody. While in custody he also allegedly used a bloody towel to slap an officer.

THREE ON THREE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD FOR PBHS STUDENT ROTARY CLUB The Interact Club, the Poplar Bluff High School student Rotary Club, will be hosting a three-on-three basketball tournament next month.

The tournament has been scheduled for 1 pm on Saturday, April 1st, in the gymnasium.

The cost is $75 per team, with all proceeds going toward a summer field trip for the club to tour Civil Rights landmarks.

Teams can consist of up to four members and participants must be 14 years of age or older. First place players will receive Beats headphones.

If you would like to sign up, email club sponsor Stephen Patty at stephenpatty@pb.k12.mo.us.

TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE IN CARTER COUNTY A Tennessee man was taken into custody Tuesday morning in Southeast Missouri on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Randy May, of Memphis, Tennessee, was arrested in Carter County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

May is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, failure to drive on right half of roadway, and driving while suspended.

Following the arrest, May was transported to the Carter County Jail.

METH ARREST MADE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a Caruthersville woman on a controlled substance charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Misty Gibson was taken into custody Monday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Gibson was held at the New Madrid County Jail.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD BEING REDUCED FOR SHOULDER REPAIRS Route 153 in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane through the end of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 162 to Route J.

Weather permitting, work will continue through Friday from 7 am to 3:30 pm each day.

Tuesday March 21, 2017

TWO FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN STODDARD COUNTYTwo people were found dead Monday following a fire at a residence in Advance.

According to Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope, the deceased have been identified as 43 year old Andrea Carlisle and 41 year old Herscheal Stephens, both of Advance.

Autopsies have been scheduled for Wednesday. A cause for the fire was not available.

MALDEN MAN FACING STATUTORY SODOMY CHARGE A Malden man is scheduled to appear in court this morning following his arrest on Sunday.

According to the Malden Police Department, officers arrested 44-year-old Chad Wayne Cobb for the charge of statutory or attempted statutory sodomy in the 1st degree.

Cobb’s initial arraignment has been scheduled for 9 am this morning in Dunklin County.

ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD FORUM SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK Candidates for the Poplar Bluff School Board will gather next week to answer questions from the public.

The annual school board forum, hosted by Missouri NEA and MSTA, has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 28th, in the Middle School Library.

Five candidates, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers Bill Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are vying for three-year terms on the Board of Education.

The public has been invited to participate and submit questions for the school board candidates.

REYNOLDS COUNTY CITY IS HAVING WATER PROBLEMS A city in Reynolds County is having water problems.

According to a post on the Reynolds County Courthouse Facebook page, the city of Centerville did not have water Monday afternoon while work was being done on the water lines. This will cause the Reynolds County Courthouse to be closed today.

Centerville R-1 will also reportedly not have classes today.

SLIGHT TO MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE STORMS TODAY FOR FAR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Far Southeast Missouri is under a slight to marginal risk of severe storms for today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, the risk is mainly this afternoon and evening. Large hail will be the primary hazard with the storms, with damaging winds also possible.

Otherwise, heavy rain and lightning are also possible.

WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE Authorities in Wayne County have taken a Park Hills woman into custody on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jennifer Cash was arrested Monday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine.

She is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, Cash was transported to the Wayne County Jail.

SHOULDER REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Route J in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.

The section of Route J to be reduced is located from Route 153 to Route 62.

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

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT LAUNCHES NEW APP The Poplar Bluff School District has launched a new app.

According to the school district, the app has many features including academic calendars, sports schedules, lunch menus, bus routes, and a parent tool.

The free app is currently available on the Apple iOS and Android stores.

Monday March 20, 2017

MARIJUANA AND APPROXIMATELY $10,000 FOUND IN VEHICLEAuthorities in Poplar Bluff say a man was taken into custody last week after marijuana and around $10,000 were found in his vehicle.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that a patrolman made contact with 35 year old Lee Marvin Hamilton, of Poplar Bluff, last Wednesday after Hamilton had attempted to elude the officer.

During the contact, assisting officers detected the odor of marijuana emitting from Hamilton’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 17 grams of marijuana, three tablets of Alprazolam, which is a schedule four controlled substance, and approximately $10,000 in U.S. currency.

Hamilton was arrested and faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute. He was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUTNY ON METHAMPHETMINE CHARGE Authorities arrested a Fredericktown man early Sunday morning in Butler County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old Oliver Isaac was taken into custody at around 12:20 am on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Isaac was transported to the Butler County Jail.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD Route 51 in Butler County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The work zone will be located between Greason and 1st Street.

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

TORNADO SIREN OUT OF SERVICE IN CAMPBELL Officials in Campbell say that the tornado siren there is out of service.

According to the Campbell Fire Department Facebook page, the siren is having electrical problems and will be out of service until further notice.

The post says the siren will be fixed as soon as possible.

MANHUNT LEADS TO ARREST OF RECTOR MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE AND KIDNAPPING Updating a story we brought to you last week, a manhunt has resulted in the arrest of a Rector man.

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that 35 year old Heath Miller was taken into custody at approximately 4 pm Saturday.

The arrest came after an extensive manhunt in Ripley and portions of Carter County. Troopers were alerted that Miller had reportedly forced his way into a home in the Grandin area and he was arrested without incident.

The Highway Patrol says Miller is charged in Dunklin and Ripley counties with 1st degree rape, 1st degree kidnapping, 1st degree assault, and armed criminal action. He is being held in the Ripley County Jail without bond.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN WANYE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES A Lowndes woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest Friday in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Chelsie Fortner was arrested Friday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and endangering the welfare of a child.

Fortner also reportedly had a warrant out of Wayne County.

SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE THIS WEEK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Weather officials say that we could be seeing severe weather again this week in Southeast Missouri.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, a chance of thunderstorms will enter the forecast today and tonight. The primary storm hazards should be heavy rain and lightning.

The best chance of thunderstorms, including the chance of strong storms, however comes Tuesday afternoon and evening, across far southeast Missouri and southwest Kentucky, where a Marginal Risk of severe storms exists.

Damaging winds and large hail are the severe weather hazards that potentially may occur. Otherwise, heavy rain and lightning are expected.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH APRIL FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT Route H in Stoddard County will be closed through April as contractor crews replace a bridge.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between County Road 659 and County Road 667.

Weather permitting, the bridge will be closed beginning today and will re-open on Monday, May 1st.

Friday, March 17, 2017

AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE AND KIDNAPPING

  Authorities in Southeast Missouri are looking for a man who has been charged with kidnapping and rape.

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol says that authorities are searching for 25 year old Heath Miller, of Rector, Arkansas. Miller has warrants for his arrest from Dunklin and Ripley counties, charging him with 1st degree rape, 1st degree kidnapping, and 1st degree assault.

Miller is also suspected of breaking into a home in Ripley County Monday evening and stealing a handgun.

Miller is described as being 5 feet 10 inches tall, with brown hair and blue eyes and weighing 218 pounds.

Parrott says Miller should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If you see him, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol or call your local law enforcement agency.

Homeowners in the Grandin area are also being encouraged to keep their doors, outbuildings and vehicles locked.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEEKING ASSISTANCE IN FINDING MAN IN CONNECTION TO A BURGLARY

  Police in Poplar Bluff are asking the community for assistance in locating a man in connection to a burglary.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Daniel Bright is wanted for questioning in regards to a burglary and also has multiple active warrants for his arrest.

Anyone with information regarding Bright’s whereabouts can contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776 extension 1360.

  HEAVY DOWNPOUR POSSIBLE WITH INCOMING STORM SYSTEM

  Thunderstorms will be possible today and weather officials say this could bring a chance of heavy rainfall.

According to a hazardous weather outlook issued by the National Weather Service, chances of thunderstorms are forecast for Southeast Missouri today and into the early evening.

The outlook says that a brief heavy downpour and sporadic lightning will be the primary concerns for today.

  MAN’S BODY FOUND AT CEMETERY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  An inmate was found dead Thursday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the body of 22 year old Christopher Daniels was discovered Thursday afternoon at a cemetery in Paragould.

An investigation into the death has been started by the Arkansas State Police.

  CITY OF POPLAR BLUFF TO HOLD PUBLIC AUCTION THIS WEEKEND

The City of Poplar Bluff has announced that a public auction will be held this weekend in downtown Poplar Bluff.

The city will be auctioning off excess equipment, including vehicles, office equipment, computers, televisions, and more. A listing of items to be auctioned off is available on the Poplar Bluff City Hall Facebook page.

The auction is set to begin at 10 am Saturday morning in the parking lot across from the Black River Coliseum.

  BULLET AND STAB PROTECTIVE VESTS DONATED TO POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

  Two Poplar Bluff K-9 officers will be getting new protective vests thanks to a donation from Perrigo Animal Health.

The donation of twenty-five bullet- and stab-protective vests was done in partnership with Vested Interest in K9s, a nonprofit organization that provides bullet- and stab-protective vests to police departments nationwide.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the donation will go to benefit K-9 officers Kane and Loco.

Thursday March 16, 2017

PERRYVILLE WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTYA Perryville woman is facing multiple charges following her arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 41 year old Tonya Lang was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Officials say that further charges are pending. Lang remained in jail as of this morning and her bond has been set at $25,000.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY East and Westbound ramps from Route 60 in Stoddard County will be closed tonight as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the two on-ramps from Route 60 to Route 25 east and westbound will be closed.

Weather permitting, work will take place tonight from 6 pm to 6 am.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS TO BE OUT OF SCHOOL ON FRIDAY Students in Poplar Bluff are preparing for a three day weekend.

Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Superintendent Scott Dill tells KWOC News that R-1 schools will not be in session on Friday for a teacher collaboration day.

The regular class schedule is set to resume on Monday, March 20th.

HIGHWAY PATROL TO CONDUCT ENFORCEMENT OPERATION ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY State troopers in Southeast Missouri will be participating in an enforcement operation on St. Patrick’s Day.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that members of Troop E will be conducting a Selective Traffic Enforcement Program operation on March 17th.

Vitale says the goal of the operation is to detect hazardous moving, speed, and other violations that contribute to traffic crashes. Troopers will also be aggressively enforcing the seat belt and child restraint laws on all roadways within Troop E.

REGULAR MEETING OF THE POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD TO BE HELD TONIGHT The Poplar Bluff School Board is scheduled to meet tonight.

The regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Poplar Bluff Board of Education is set to begin tonight at 7 pm.

The meeting will be held in the administrative building.

NEW DAY MINISTRIES TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT TODAY New Day Ministries in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today from 3 to 5 pm.

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per person per family. New Day Ministries is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.

If you would like more information, contact Pastors Vernon and Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.