Wednesday October 4, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO OVER FOUR YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON A Poplar Bluff man has been sentenced to over four years in federal prison for child pornography.

In January of 2016, officers with the Southeast Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force and Poplar Bluff Police Department conducted a search warrant at the residence of 27 year old Jonathan Ryan Snyder.

As a part of the investigation, authorities discovered several thousand images and videos of confirmed child pornography on Snyder’s electronic devices.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News that last week Snyder was sentenced to 51 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons followed by 10 years of supervised release.

THREE DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Three driver examination stations are set to be closed today in Southeast Missouri.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that the Charleston, Fredericktown, and Kennett driver examination stations will be closed today for an administrative meeting.

Testing will resume in Kennett on October 11^th and in Charleston and Fredericktown on October 18^th.

FIELDS OF FAITH TO BE HELD TONIGHT IN POPLAR BLUFF

Fields of Faith is scheduled for tonight in Poplar Bluff.

Fields of Faith is a student led event where various students can pray and share their faith testimonies.

Tonight’s event will begin at 7 pm at the Poplar Bluff High School Football Stadium.

HARVIELL WOMAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

A Harviell woman is facing a felony drug charge following her arrest Tuesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 59 year old Linda Hodge was arrested in Butler County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

She is also facing a misdemeanor charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

PUXICO WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON MULTIPLE WARRANTS

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on multiple warrants.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 42 year old Jerry Tucker, of Puxico, was recently arrested on warrants on resisting arrest, assault 4^th degree, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Tucker’s bond was set at $12,500 and he has bonded out.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES TO SPLIT $2.4 MILLION DOLLARS

Multiple Southeast Missouri communities will split over two million dollars in investment funds.

The Delta Regional Authority and Missouri Governor Eric Greitens have announced $2.4 million in new investments to strengthen Missouri’s infrastructure, workforce, and economy.

Some projects chosen for the funds include the Highway 49 Industrial Park Improvement in Piedmont, Wastewater Treatment Improvements in Neelyville, and Health Care Enhancements in Sikeston.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

FISK MAN HIT BY VEHICLE WHILE RIDING A BICYCLE IN STODDARD COUNTY

  A Fisk man was taken to an area hospital over the weekend after being hit by a vehicle in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Jason Summers was riding a bicycle near Bloomfield Saturday night when he was hit by an unknown vehicle that then left the scene.

Summers was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital with moderate injuries.

No information was available on the vehicle, or its driver.

  TEXAS MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING ALLEGED ASSAULT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI HOTEL

  A Texas man has been taken into custody in Southeast Missouri following an alleged assault at a hotel in Miner.

According to the Miner Police Department, 39 year old David Wesley Leek, of Carrollton, Texas, has been arrested and charged with statutory sodomy, deviate sexual intercourse, and child molestation.

Miner Police say that Leek has been charged in Texas for the same crimes, as it was discovered they took place there as well.

Leek’s bond was set at $50,000, cash only.

  SIKESTON NATIVE APPEARS ON NBC’S THE VOICE

  A Sikeston native is being given the chance to show America her voice.

Anna Catherine DeHart appeared on last night’s episode of The Voice during the blind audition round.

She sung Maren Morris’s “I Could Use a Love Song,” and was chosen by both Blake Shelton and Adam Levine.

DeHart ultimately chose to join Team Blake after Shelton said her voice was so pointed, “It’s like a knife cutting through the room.”

  PUXICO MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FLEEING CHARGES

  An area man is facing drug and fleeing charges following his arrest in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 36 year old Joseph Bridges, of Puxico, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest by fleeing.

Bridges bond has been set at $15,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

  NAYLOR WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING WEEKEND ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

  Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Naylor woman on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Mindy Pickens was taken into custody Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Pickens was also arrested on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and a Butler County failure to appear warrant.

Following the arrest, Pickens was held at the Butler County Jail.

  EARTHQUAKE SHAKES MALDEN AREA

  People around Malden might have felt an earthquake that shook the area Monday morning.

According to the United States Geological Society, the 2.2 magnitude earthquake occurred at 10:12 am yesterday.

Officials say that the earthquake was centered a little over eight and a half miles east of Malden.

  HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDING MOTORISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR DEER

  With fall upon us, Missouri officials are warning motorists to watch for deer.

Colonel Sandra K. Karsten, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that deer are more active and create hazards for Missouri motorists at this time of year.

The majority of deer strike crashes occur in October and November each year, with the largest number taking place in November. Although deer strikes can occur at any time, most occur between the hours of 5 pm and 7 am.

Last year, drivers in Missouri experienced over 4,600 traffic crashes where deer-vehicle strikes occurred. One deer strike occurred almost every two hours in the state. In these crashes, there were six fatalities and 455 people were injured.

  POPLAR BLUFF GRADUATION RATE UP OVER FOUR PERCENT ACCORDING TO REPORT

  The graduation rate in Poplar Bluff is up over four percent according to a recent report.

The report by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education says that Poplar Bluff High School's graduation rate was 91.8 percent this year, a gain of 4.2 percent over last year.

In 2011, the graduation rate was 78.6 percent. School officials tell KWOC News that the steady increase since 2011 is due to the progress teachers are making in tracking data, building relationships, and working harder to engage students and ensure individuals obtain the knowledge necessary to advance.

Monday October 2, 2017

BERNIE WOMAN ARRESTED SUNDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGEA Bernie woman has been taken into custody in Butler County on a felony drug charge.

According to authorities, 50 year old Patricia Jennings was arrested early Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Jennings is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, she was transported to the Butler County Jail.

RAILROAD CROSSING IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CLOSED BEGINNING TODAY City officials in Poplar Bluff say that a local railroad crossing will be closed beginning today.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the “C” Street Railroad Crossing in East Poplar Bluff will be closed to all traffic for track crossing improvements.

Officials say the closure is expected to last one month.

BUTLER COUNTY TORNADO SIRENS TO BE TESTED TODAY Authorities in Butler County will be testing the tornado sirens today.

According to Butler County Emergency Management Director Robbie Myers, the sirens are scheduled to be tested today at noon.

Myers says that the tests will be conducted every month on the first Monday.

ROUTE 51 IN BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTY TO BE CLOSED FOR MOST OF OCTOBER Route 51 in Butler and Stoddard County will be closed for most of this month so contractor crews can perform bridge repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridges are located between Route FF and the Route 60 Outer Road.

Weather permitting, the road will be closed today and will re-open on Monday, October 23rd.

DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES An area man was taken into custody Friday morning in Ripley County on multiple drug related charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 35 year old Douglas Palmer, of Doniphan, was arrested shortly before 8 am Friday on a felony charge of burglary 2nd degree.

Palmer is also facing a charges of possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, he was transported to the Ripley County Jail.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY Route 60 west in Carter County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route J to County Road 163.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 6:30 am to 5 pm each day.

DATE SET FOR 2017 PALACE OF PRAISE GOLF TOURNAMENT A date has been announced for the Palace of Praise 2017 Golf Tournament.

The 4 person scramble tournament will be held on October 14th at Hidden Trails Country Club in Dexter. Registration will begin at noon, with the tournament starting at 1 pm. Entry is $50 per person.

For more information go online to www.PalaceOfPraise.com.

COMEDY NIGHT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND AT POPLAR BLUFF KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS The Knights of Columbus Comedy Night has been scheduled for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The event will be held on Saturday with doors opening at 5:30 pm.

Officials say that the dinner and comedy show will feature talented and hilarious comedians from St. Louis and tickets are available for $30 per person.

For tickets, call Brian at 718-0735 or Charlie at 718-2293 or stop by the Sacred Heart Parish Office.

Friday, September 29, 2017

IRON HORSE FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

  Downtown Poplar Bluff will be the location for the 2017 Iron Horse Festival this weekend.

The festival will begin tonight with the Car Cruse In tonight from 5 to 8 pm.

On Saturday, a pancake breakfast will begin at 8 am at the Historic Train Depot and The Iron Horse Festival Run will be held at First Methodist Church.

The festival will officially open at 10 am on Saturday and will include artists, crafters, demonstrations, vendor’s booths, a Dog Show, and the Kids Zone in Downtown Poplar Bluff.

Entertainment will be provided throughout the day on Saturday by artists such as Kyle Richards, Thin Blue Line, Leeza Edmundson, and the Justin Heskett Band.

  FRIDAY AT THE BUTLER COUNTY FAIR

  The BBQ Contest is one of the headline events for tonight at the Butler County Fair.

The Fair has been set up at Ray Clinton Park in Poplar Bluff. Also on the schedule for tonight is the carnival, the 4h/FFA animal auction, a horseshoeing demonstration, Bootheel Truck and Tractor Pullers, and the Chalk Bluff Rodeo.

More information, along with a list of events and times, is available online at ButlerFair.org.

  PARAGOULD MAN FACING RAPE CHARGES

  A man has been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas on multiple counts of rape.

Hipolito Rivera has been arrested by authorities in Paragould after being accused of raping two young children.

Rivera is facing two counts of rape and his bond has been set at $175,000.

  FIVE INJURED IN MULTI VEHICLE WRECK IN SCOTT COUNTY

  Multiple people were injured Thursday morning in a wreck near Benton.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle crashed into the back of another vehicle on Missouri Highway 77 shortly before 8 am Thursday. The second vehicle then hit another vehicle, which then struck a fourth vehicle.

A total of five people, including four children, were injured during the incident and transported to area hospitals.

  ESSEX MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an Essex man on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 30 year old Christopher Garrett Taylor was recently taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Officials say that Taylor remained in jail as of this morning and his bond has been set at $7,500.

  MALDEN DRIVER EXAMINATION TO BE TEMPORARILY MOVED BEGINNING TODAY

Anyone in Malden looking to take a Driver’s Exam today will have to go to an alternate location.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale of the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that the Malden Driver Examination Station will be conducted at the Malden Community Center today.

Driver testing will resume at the Malden Police Station on Friday, October 6th.

Thursday, September 28, 2017

STUDENT DETAINED AFTER MAKING THREATS OF VIOLENCE AT AREA SCHOOL

  A student has been detained after allegedly making threats at an area school.

According to Alton R-4 Superintendent, Eric Allen, the Oregon County Sheriff's Office was notified Wednesday after multiple students reported that another student had been making threats of violence at the school on social media and was in possession of a knife on campus.

Following an investigation by officers from the Alton Police Department and the Oregon County Sheriff's Office, a fifteen year old student was detained and transferred to the custody of the 37th Judicial Circuit Juvenile Office.

  THURSDAY AT THE BUTLER COUNTY FAIR

  The Butler County Fair is set to get started today at Ray Clinton Park.

Multiple events are scheduled for tonight at the fair, including the opening of vendor and commercial exhibits, the petting zoo, barrel racing, and monster truck rides.

Tonight will also mark the opening of the carnival.

For more information, along with event times, go online to www.ButlerFair.org.

  POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS PREPARING FOR THREE DAY WEEKEND

  Students in Poplar Bluff are preparing for a three day weekend.

Scott Dill, Superintendent of the Poplar Bluff School District, tells KWOC News that Poplar Bluff R-I Schools will not be in session on Friday for a teacher collaboration day

The regular class schedule is scheduled to resume on Monday, October 2nd.

  RAILROAD CROSSING IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CLOSED IN OCTOBER

  City officials in Poplar Bluff say that an a local railroad crossing will be closed beginning on Monday.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the “C” Street Railroad Crossing in East Poplar Bluff will be closed to all traffic beginning Monday for track crossing improvements.

Officials say the closure is expected to last one month.

  DATE SET FOR 15TH ANNUAL CHILD ABUSE AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CONFERENCE

  The date has been set for the 15th Annual Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Conference.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the event will be held from 8:30 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, October 31st at First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Admission is free and lunch will be provided. The deadline to register is October 20th and seating will be limited to the first 100 that register.

For more information, call 573-776-7830 or visit www.thecrc.org.

  MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TESTING TO BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED IN POPLAR BLUFF

  State Officials have announced a temporary change for the Poplar Bluff Driver Examination Station.

On Friday, the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process will be suspended for the station on Friday due to another event at the site.

Written examinations and Class E and Class F skills tests will be offered as normally scheduled. Motorcycle skills testing will resume in Poplar Bluff on Monday, October 2nd.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

ONE KILLED ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

  A Williamsville woman was killed in a wreck last night in Butler County.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 9:45 pm at the intersection of US 67 and Route W.

A vehicle, driven by 82 year old Constance Woodring, reportedly struck another vehicle while entering the intersection. Woodring was later pronounced dead at a Poplar Bluff hospital.

The driver of the second vehicle, a 17 year old male from Poplar Bluff, was seriously injured in the wreck.

  ARREST MADE IN PARAGOULD HIT AND RUN INCIDENT

  Updating a story we brought to you last week, an arrest has been made in connection to a hit and run incident in Paragould.

Officials with the Paragould Police Department tell KWOC News that on September 19th, officers responded to a call of a man that was lying in a ditch and bleeding from the head.

The man, identified as Ronald Pruett, of Paragould, was hospitalized with serious injuries. Witnesses told officers that Pruett was struck by a red van.

Paragould Police say that an arrest has been made, however they did not release the identity of the individual. Officials say that further information will be forthcoming.

  BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT WARRANT

  A Bernie man has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a felony warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Jeffrey Stone was arrested Tuesday night on a felony Stoddard County warrant for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and a felony parole violation warrant.

Stone was also arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – opiates.

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

  MAN ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTED AT A STEELE MARKET

  Authorities in Steele have made an arrest following a reported assault at an area business.

According to the Steele Police Department, last week officers responded to a local market in reference to an assault. At the scene, a man told officers that another man flourished a knife and then punched him in the face.

Officers subsequently arrested a 69 year old man from Steele on charges of assault and unlawful use of a weapon. The man’s name was not released.

  WOMAN ARRESTED FOR DRUGS FOLLOWING TRAFFIC STOP

  A recent traffic stop in Northeast Arkansas resulted in a drug arrest.

According to Greene County Sheriff David Carter, a deputy recently noticed a car weaving into the opposite lane and conducted a traffic stop.

During the stop, a K-9 officer alerted positive on the vehicle and the deputy found that Jodie Ray had 25 grams of crystal methamphetamine on her person along with several pills.

Ray was arrested and transported to the Greene County Detention Center.

  STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

MoDOT officials say that work will take place today from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.

The work zone will be located between County Road 510 and Route N.

Tuesday September 26, 2017

MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON ON RAPE CHARGEA man has been sentenced to life in prison on rape and sodomy charges.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, Steven McWhirter was sentenced Monday to three life sentences by a judge in Cape Girardeau County.

On August 18th, McWhirter pled guilty to forcible rape in the first degree and two counts of statutory sodomy in the first degree. On Monday, Judge Benjamin Lewis imposed a life sentence on each count.

The two statutory sodomy life sentences were ordered to be served concurrent to one another but consecutive to the forcible rape life sentence.

DEXTER MAN WINS $100,000 THANKS TO SCRATCHERS TICKET A Dexter man recently claimed a top prize from a Missouri Lottery Scratchers Ticket.

According to the Missouri Lottery, Donnie Williams won $100,000 from a “$100,000 Money Multiplier” Scratchers ticket he purchased for $5 at a Dexter convenience store.

The same store sold another $100,000 scratches ticket winner to a Dexter woman in April.

POPLAR BLUFF POM SQUAD KIDDIE CAMP SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH The Poplar Bluff Pom Squad is holding a dance camp for girls in preschool through 6th grade next month.

The camp is scheduled to be held at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center Gymnasium from 6 to 7:30 pm on Tuesday, October 10th and Thursday, October 12th. Pre-registration will be held from 5 to 7 pm on October 2nd in the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center lobby.

The cost is $25 per child and will include a T-shirt and Pom Poms.

A performance will be held following the camp on Monday, October 16th during the Mules 9th grade football game at the High School Football field.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a man in connection to a shooting on Monday.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, shortly after 8 am on Monday, deputies were called to Lilbourn in reference to a possible shooting.

When the deputies arrived, they located a victim who had an apparent gunshot wound in the chest. The victim was airlifted to a Memphis hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

New Madrid County Sheriff Terry Stevens says that the victim identified the suspect as Alandre Newsom.

Newsom was apprehended several blocks away from the crime scene and taken to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office where he was booked in and charged with assault 1st degree, stealing a firearm or explosive, and two counts of armed criminal action, among other charges.

FOUR INJURED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK Four people were injured in a single vehicle wreck Sunday night in Pemiscot County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 47 year old Lisa Rawls, of Kennett, was driving on Route NN shortly after 11 pm Sunday when her vehicle traveled off the roadway and overturned.

Rawls, along with 47 year old Shonda Groves, of Steele, were seriously injured in the wreck. Groves was flown to a Memphis hospital while Rawls and two other passengers were taken by ambulance to a Kennett hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT NAMED NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP SEMIFINALIST A Poplar Bluff student has been named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist.

Poplar Bluff High School senior Adeesh Mishra is one of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide in the program. Adeesh has been invited to write an essay as part of a checklist for a chance to be named a finalist in the program.

Semifinalists have an opportunity to continue in the competition for around 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million that will be offered next spring.

2017 DELTA FAIR PARADE TO BE HELD TODAY IN KENNETT Residents in and around Kennett are preparing for tonight’s parade.

According to the Kennett Police Department, the 2017 Delta Fair Parade will be held tonight beginning at 5 pm.

Officers will begin shutting traffic down around the high school area, including the North Bypass from North Street to Saint Francis Street, at around 4:15 pm.

Traffic will then be shut down along the parade route from Wal-Mart to Route O beginning at 4:45 pm.

Monday September 25, 2017

WAPPAPELLO MAN DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR PUXICO A Wappapello man has died from injuries he received in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Donnie Crawford was driving on Route T, near Puxico, Saturday night when his vehicle ran off the road and struck several trees.

Crawford was pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING FIREARM CHARGE

Last week officials announced the indictment of a Poplar Bluff man on a firearm charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the indictment charged 21 year old DeMarlon Richardson, of Poplar Bluff, along with four residents of East St. Louis, Illinois, with possession of stolen firearms.

The five men are alleged to have knowingly possessed 63 stolen firearms in February of this year. Officials say that the offense is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years.

The four Illinois residents have also been charged with carjacking and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

ROUTE 60 TO BE REDUCED FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE IN STODDARD COUNTY

Eastbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the bridge is located between Route DD and Route WW.

Work is scheduled to take place today and tomorrow from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

10 YEAR OLD CHILD KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING

A 10 year old child was killed Friday in an accidental shooting in Dunklin County.

Dunklin County Sheriff Bob Holder tells KWOC News that a man had reportedly removed an AR-15 rifle from his gun safe, removed the magazine, and tried to eject a round when the gun went off. The man’s 10 year old son was lying on a bed and the bullet grazed his arm before striking him in the chest.

The boy was taken to a Kennett hospital where he passed away.

Holder says the incident is under investigation by the Dunklin County Sheriffs' Office and the Dunklin County Coroner.

WRECK RESULTS IN BLOOMFIELD MAN BEING FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

A man has been flown to an area hospital in connection to a wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on Route V near the Stoddard and Bollinger County line at around 11 am on Friday.

25 year old Daniel Null’s vehicle reportedly failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the side of the road, and overturned.

Null suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN CARTER COUNTY THIS WEEK FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Westbound US 60 in Carter County is being reduced to one lane for part of this week as crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation perform bridge maintenance.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow.

The bridge involved is located over Cane Creek between County Road 367 and County Road S.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL COLLECTING FOOD FOR AREA CHARITIES

The Poplar Bluff High School is collecting food for area charities.

According to a post on the High School’s Facebook page, during the months of September and October, the high school will be collecting Mac and Cheese and other boxed helpers to help feed the hungry of Poplar Bluff.

Students wanting to donate can drop the items off in a box that has been set up. The food will then be given to a charity organization to be passed out to those that are in need.

Friday, September 22, 2017

ATTENDEES ENCOURAGED TO CARPOOL TO TONIGHT'S MULES GAME AGAINST JACKSON

  A full house is anticipated for tonight’s Mules game against Jackson and attendees are being encouraged to try to ride together if possible.

KWOC News spoke with Poplar Bluff Superintendent Scott Dill about tonight’s game.

“We’re expecting a large crowd with the 7 p.m. kickoff featuring our undefeated Poplar Bluff Mules versus the 4-1 Jackson Indians. Now we would appreciate if as many fans as possible could carpool to this game to make maximum use of our parking lot spaces.

And this will free up spaces for our friends from Jackson as well that are coming over. Now in the event that our on campus parking lots do become full, our friends at Fellowship General Baptist Church located at 3581 North Westwood Boulevard are allowing us to use their parking lot for overflow parking.

Now we also will have our transport people running school buses as shuttles this evening from Fellowship General Baptist Church down to the school parking lot. So please feel free to take advantage of that service that they have generously made available to us.

We're certainly appreciative of their efforts and we wish our boys good luck tonight.”

You can listen to tonight’s game live on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC as well as online at KWOC.com.

  INVESTIGATION ONGOING IN CONNECTION TO HIT AND RUN IN PARAGOULD

  A man was seriously injured in a hit and run incident earlier this week in Paragould.

Officials with the Paragould Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly after 5 pm on Tuesday, officers responded to a call of a man that was lying in a ditch and bleeding from the head.

The man, identified as Ronald Pruett, of Paragould, has been hospitalized with serious injuries.

Officers learned from persons standing near the scene that Pruett was allegedly struck by a red vehicle. A witness told officers that the vehicle was an older model full sized van that had no hubcaps on the wheels. The van was last seen traveling northbound on South 11th Avenue, toward East Court Street.

Anyone who has information regarding the incident, or is familiar with the vehicle described is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Jack Hailey with the Paragould Police Department's Criminal Division at 870-236-5755.

  BUTLER COUNTY FAIR PARADE TO BE HELD TOMORROW

  The Butler County Fair Parade is set to be held tomorrow.

According to the Butler County Fair Facebook page, the line up for the parade will be held in front of the Eagles on Ditch Road.

The line up time is from 8:30 am to 9 am. The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 am. The Butler County Fair will start next week on September 28th.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR CONTINUES TODAY

  Festivities are set to continue today at the Stoddard County Fair.

Starting at 7 pm tonight, Bootheel Tractor Pullers will be live at Arena A, while the second night of karaoke will be featured at Arena B. Tonight’s main stage performance will be the State Line Drive, also beginning at 7 pm.

Multiple events are on the schedule for Saturday, including the Buyers Breakfast at 8 am, the 4H and FFA Livestock Auction at 9 am, and the Demo Derby at 7 pm. Maggie Thorn will be performing on the main stage at 7 pm and the night will be capped off with the fireworks show, starting at approximately 9 pm.

For more information, go online to www.StoddardCountyFair.com.

  REPRESENTATIVE FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI APPOINTED TO BOARD OF PROBATION AND PAROLE

  A state representative from Southeast Missouri is leaving the Missouri House of Representatives to take a position on a state board.

On Wednesday, Missouri Governor Eric Greitens appointed Representative Paul Fitzwater as a member of the Board of Probation and Parole.

Fitzwater was first elected as representative of District 144, which includes Wayne, Reynolds, Washington, and Iron counties, in 2010.

While a member of the House, he served as the Chairman of the Corrections and Public Institution Committee, which oversees issues relating to adult and juvenile penal and correctional problems, and the administration of correctional institutions.

  DATE SET FOR NEXT COFFEE WITH A COP EVENT IN POPLAR BLUFF

  The Poplar Bluff Police Department will be holding their next coffee with a cop event next month.

The event will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 am on Friday, October 13th at McDonald’s on Highway 67 North.

You will be able to have a cup of coffee and chat with your local police officers during the event. If you have any questions, you can contact Lieutenant Darron Moore at 573 785-5776, extension number 1345,

  WESTERN MISSOURI MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY

  A western Missouri man has been taken into custody in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Christopher Raymond, of Brighton, was arrested Thursday evening on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia.

Raymond also reportedly had multiple warrants out of Polk County.

Thursday, September 21, 2017

TEN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON DRUG RELATED WARRANTS

  Numerous people were arrested Wednesday morning in Butler County on drug related warrants.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a total of 10 arrests were made between 8 am and noon.

Officials say that all 10 people were residents of Poplar Bluff. ARRESTS:

BUTLER, KANDACE L, 29, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

BUTLER, ERIC W, 51, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

ROBINSON, KELLY D, 21, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

VONRUEDGISCH, AMY L, 39, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

WARD, ZACHARY S, 26, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

WHITE (EVANS), NICOLE P, 22, POPLAR BLUFF, FELONY WARRANT (BUTLER COUNTY) SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

YOUNT, DEMATRIA A, 54, POPLAR BLUFF, WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

VOSHELL, JACOB D, 34, POPLAR BLUFF, FELONY WARRANT (BUTLER COUNTY) SALE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

MOORE, EDWARD J, 51, POPLAR BLUFF, 1. WARRANT BUTLER COUNTY DANGEROUS DRUGS SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 2.FELONY POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE HYDROCODONE. 3. MISDEMEANOR POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

KNOX, LESTER W, 36, POPLAR BLUFF, 1. FELONY WARRANT (BUTLER COUNTY) SALE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 2. MISDEMEANOR WARRANT (HOWELL COUNTY) FAILURE TO APPEAR ORIGINAL CHARGE NON SUPPORT

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ASKING FOR PUBLIC’S ASSISTANCE IN FINDING TWO NON COMPLIANT SEX OFFENDERS

  Authorities in Poplar Bluff are seeking the public’s assistance in locating two non-compliant sex offenders.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, they are looking for 52 year old Rodney Eugene Whitworth and 48 year old John Edward Bryeans, both of Poplar Bluff.

Both men reportedly moved from their residences earlier this month did not report their new address within three days.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of either man is asked to contact Captain David Sutton at 573-686-8649.

  BRIGGS AND STRATTON ST. JUDE CAR SHOW TO BE HELD THIS SATURDAY

  The 14th Annual St. Jude Car Show presented by Briggs and Stratton will be held this Saturday in Poplar Bluff.

We spoke with, Michelle Shelton, Human Resource Manager at Briggs and Stratton about the event.

“This Saturday is the 14th annual Briggs & Stratton St Jude car Show. Registration is from 8 till noon and it's $20 entry fee that is donated directly to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The car show is an open car show, we do have 90 plaques and nine trophies for best of categories that will be given out that day.

Our silent auction has always been one of the highlights of the event. This year’s silent auction we have an inverter. If you're not familiar with an inverter that is a small generator of power but it's a lot quieter than your traditional generator it’s great for camping and tailgating and all those fun things that we love to do. We also have Cardinals tickets for next Saturday.

We have four Cardinals tickets for next Saturday's game against the Brewers, it's an afternoon game and we got some great seats up for grabs there. We have a wide variety of apparel items from Ford and Toyota that were donated for the show. A Milwaukee drill, a snap-on tool bag, some jewelry, lots of beauty products, gift cards, we even have a few toys for the kids so something for everybody in the family at this event.

Speaking of the kids, we have added something new this year, we’ve got a kids area where we are going to have games set up, some face painting. Just some things to pass the time and get some energy out. Also new to the event this year, we've got one of our racing go karts from Briggs & Stratton. It's an animal engine, it’s one of our racing divisions products, and we’re really proud to say that we're going to have that down on display for everyone to enjoy.

As always the Briggs & Stratton Cafe will be open for business on Saturday. We’ve got the grill fired up and we're going to be cooking hamburgers and hotdogs as well as having barbecue nachos and lots of other great snacks. So if you're hungry after the parade, come on down, enter your car, have lunch with us, and enjoy the day.

We are still accepting donations if anyone has anything that they would like to provide for the show. We’ll come pick it up, you can bring it to us, whatever works, we'll make it happen. We’ll be accepting donations through the morning of the event or if you have any questions or need more information give us a call at 686-3004. You can also go to our website at Briggscares.com.”

  PARAGOULD POLICE SAY THERE HAS BEEN AN INCREASE IN VEHICLE BREAK INS AND THEFTS

  Paragould police are warning area residents to remember to lock their vehicles.

According to the Paragould Police Department, in the last couple of weeks, there has been an increase in vehicle break ins resulting in the thefts of firearms and/or other valuables.

These thefts were not all due to unlocked vehicles, as some of the windows were broken in the process. Police say that you should keep all vehicle doors locked and all valuable items out of sight. If possible, it is recommended that no valuable items, especially firearms, are to be left in vehicles overnight.

If you notice any suspicious activity in your neighborhood, please contact your local police department.

  THURSDAY AT THE STODDARD COUNTY FAIR

  Multiple events are on the schedule tonight at the Stoddard County Fair.

The night will begin at 6 pm with cattle and hog judging at Arena A followed by the FFA Tractor Rodeo at 7 pm.

Also beginning at 7 pm will be a performance by Used and Refused on the Fair’s Main Stage and The Strong Man on the fair grounds. Karaoke will begin at 8:30 pm at Arena B.

For more information, go online to www.StoddardCountyFair.com.

Tuesday September 19, 2017

MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FLEEING WARRANT IN STODDARD COUNTYA Springfield man has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a drug and fleeing warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 24 year old Corey Counts was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest by fleeing.

Counts’ bond has been set at $7,500, cash only, and officials say he was still in jail as of this morning.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY Southbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route C to Route 160.

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

90TH STODDARD COUNTY FAIR BEGINS TODAY The 90th Stoddard County Fair is scheduled to begin today.

The fair will kick-off with the parade in downtown Dexter this evening at 5:30 pm. Youth games will also be held tonight, directly after the parade.

The entertainment scheduled for 7 pm tonight on the Main Stage is The Well Hungarians.

For more information, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK INVOLVING FREIGHTLINER ON INTERSTATE 55 Two people were seriously injured Monday in a wreck on Interstate 55.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a freightliner struck a vehicle on the Interstate at around noon and both vehicles overturned.

The driver of the freightliner, 59 year old Edward Barker, of Wyatt, and the driver of the second vehicle, 47 year old Vicki Charles, of Riverton, Illinois, were both seriously injured in the wreck. A 10 year old passenger in the second vehicle suffered minor injuries.

All three were taken by ambulance to an area hospital.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR REPAIRS Route V in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that Route V will be reduced from 7 am to 4:30 pm.

The work zone will be located between Route K and Route C.

DATE SET FOR FAFSA FRENZY AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE The date has been set for the next FAFSA Frenzy event at Three Rivers College.

The event will be held on Thursday, October 19th from 4 to 6 pm.

This event gives students and their families the ability to have professional assistance in filling out the 2018 – 2019 FAFSA, which a form required for federal financial aid. All students and parents are welcome to attend.

There will also be an opportunity for students to enter their name into a drawing for a scholarship to be used in Fall 2018.

Monday September 18, 2017

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN SET TO APPEAR IN COURT THIS MORNING ON MURDER CHARGEA Williamsville man is set to appear in court this morning on a murder charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, 54 year old Kevin Hayes is scheduled to be arraigned at 9 am in Butler County for a charge of 1st degree murder.

The charge reportedly stems from the death of Hayes’ father, Floyd Hayes, in 2016.

Hayes’ bond has been set at $350,000.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN BUTLER COUNTY TODAY AND TOMORROW Northbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today and tomorrow so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 160 to Route C.

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

TWO FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL AFTER THEIR VEHICLE HIT A TREE NEAR FAIRDEALING Two people were flown to an area hospital yesterday after their vehicle hit a tree in Ripley County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 5 pm Sunday on US 160 in the Fairdealing area.

The driver, 42 year old Charles Howell, of Tupelo, Oklahoma, and a passenger, 28 year old Cynthia Davis, of Poplar Bluff, both suffered serious injuries in the wreck.

BUTLER COUNTY FAIR CHANGES LINE UP LOCATION FOR PARADE Butler County Fair organizers say that there has been a change to the start of the parade.

According to the Butler County Fair Facebook page, the line up for the parade will now be held in front of the Eagles on Ditch Road.

The lineup time is from 8:30 am to 9 am on Saturday, September 23rd.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County today to perform pavement repairs.

According to MoDOT, Route M will be reduced to one lane from 7 am to 4:30 pm for the repairs.

The work zone will be located between Route PP and Route K in Stoddard County.

DONIPHAN TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK OVER THE WEEKEND A Doniphan teenager was seriously injured over the weekend in a wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 13 year old boy was driving a motorcycle Saturday on private property when the vehicle became airborne and overturned.

The teen was ejected during the wreck and suffered serious injuries. He was later flown to a Memphis hospital.

PORTAGEVILLE POLICE WARNING AREA RESIDENTS ABOUT ALLEGED DOOR TO DOOR SALESPEOPLE The Portageville Police Department is warning area residents about people going house to house and trying to sell or offer you something.

According to a post on the Portageville Police Department Facebook page, the individuals have been reported as a Hispanic male in a white van, while others have reported a black female with a black male in a white or gold colored van.

Police say that there are currently no peddlers licenses issued, so no one should be selling anything door to door.

If any of these individuals come to your house, you are advised to use caution and contact the Portageville Police Department.

  PORTION OF ROUTE CC IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY A part of Route CC in Wayne County will be closed today while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

Officials tell KWOC News that the section of Route CC to be closed is located from Route 49 to County Road 468.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place today from 7 am to 5 pm.

Friday, September 15, 2017

BODY FOUND IN BURNING CAR IN NORTHERN POPLAR BLUFF

  A body was found Thursday morning in a burning vehicle in Butler County.

The vehicle had struck a tree and caught fire in the area behind Kroger and Raben Tire in northern Poplar Bluff.

The identity of the body has not been released.

  ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY FOR NEW MADRID MAN CANCELLED

  Authorities have cancelled an Endangered Person Advisory for a New Madrid man after the man was found safe.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 56 year old man was reported missing earlier this week after a family member returned home to find him gone. The man reportedly suffers from bipolar and schizophrenia.

The Highway Patrol reported late last night that the man had been found safe and that the advisory had been cancelled.

  ART WORK FROM FEMALE VETERANS TO BE FEATURED AT STARS AND STRIPES MUSEUM

  Several pieces of art created by female veterans will be featured at an event later this month at the Stars and Stripes Museum in Bloomfield.

The event, entitled Her Story, is being held by the museum in conjunction with the VA Hospital on Friday, September 22nd.

The opening ceremony will begin at 1:30 pm and will feature art work from female vets in the southeast Missouri area. Officials say that the event is free and open to the public

For more information, contact Martinie Franks at 573-778-4398.

  LAW ENFORCEMENT STATEWIDE TO CRACK DOWN ON CHILD RESTRAINT VIOLATIONS NEXT WEEK

  Law enforcement across Missouri will be cracking down on child restraint violations next week.

The crackdown comes as a part of Child Passenger Safety week from September 17th through the 23rd.

According to authorities, car crashes are the number one killer of kids and booster seat use reduces the risk of serious injury by 45 percent for children ages four through eight when compared with seat belt use alone.

Missouri law requires all children under the age of eight to be in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat unless they are 80 lbs or 4’9” tall.

For more information, visit www.saveMOlives.com.

  STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH MID FEBRUARY FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

  Route J in Stoddard County will be closed beginning next week so contractor crews can replace a bridge.

The bridge to be replaced is located between County Road 249 and County Road 410.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge will be closed starting on Monday, with the re-opening scheduled for Tuesday, February 13th, 2018.

  STREET PAINTING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW IN PORTAGEVILLE

  Drivers in Portageville are being asked to plan ahead before driving on Main Street today and tomorrow due to a street painting project.

According to the Portageville Police Department, the Street Department will be painting the south side of Main Street today and the north side on Saturday.

Motorists in the area are being asked to drive cautiously and park accordingly.

Thursday September 14, 2017

BURGLARY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY An arrest has been made in connection to a two month long burglary investigation in Butler County.

Investigator Brandon Lowe with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department tells KWOC News that the burglaries were located in the Fisk and Broseley areas.

BRANDON LOWE: 

Since early July, the Butler County Sheriff's Department has investigated several burglaries in the Broseley and Fisk area. During the course of the investigation, in relations to these burglaries, it was discovered that there were several items taken. There was several items of clothing, miscellaneous tools, money, credit cards, and things of that nature. It was discovered throughout the investigation that the suspect was 27 year old Jeremy Hicks, of Broseley, Missouri.  Friday, September 8^th, it was discovered that Mr. Hicks was at Kmart attempting to purchase items, possibly with some stolen checks. I then contacted Chief Deputy Wes Popp, who responded to Kmart. After he responded he was able to locate Mr. Hicks and a foot pursuit ensued and the suspect was taken into custody briefly afterwards. During the course of the interview with Mr. Hicks, he confessed to multiple burglaries as well as being in possession of a firearm and acknowledging he is a convicted felon. He also confessed to being in possession of narcotics, advising that is why he ran from Chief Deputy Popp. After interviewing Mr. Hicks, he was booked and lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on the charges of burglary 2nd X2, stealing X2, receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, felon in the possession of a firearm, and resisting an arrest by fleeing.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON WARRANT FOR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD

A Dexter man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 45 year old Nelson Deprow was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child.

Deprow’s bond was set at $15,000 and he remained in jail as of this morning.

POW/MIA CEREMONY TO BE HELD FRIDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

An event has been scheduled for this Friday in Poplar Bluff for National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

The ceremony, by American Legion Post #153 and the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, will begin at 10 am on Friday at the American Legion Post on Kanell Boulevard.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is recognized annually on the third Friday of September.

According to the American Legion website, the commemoration is set aside to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by this nation's prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action, as well as their families.

STATE OFFICIALS CONDUCTING AUDIT OF STODDARD COUNTY

State officials have announced that an audit of a Southeast Missouri county is underway.

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway tells KWOC News that her office has begun a regularly scheduled audit of the government of Stoddard County.

Galloway says that the audit will review county operations and practices to find any areas where the county can make improvements to better serve the public.

The county's most recent audit was released in December 2013, where it received an overall performance rating of good.

Galloway is encouraging residents who have information that may be helpful to the audit to contact the Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597.

MAN IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY ON DRUG RELATED WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say an area man has been arrested on a drug related warrant.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC news that 49 year old Billy Joe Ross, of Dexter, has been taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

As of this morning, Ross remained in jail on a $12,500 cash bond.

MODOT LAUNCES SURVEY TO GET PUBLIC INPUT ON LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking the public’s input about the state’s transportation priorities.

The Long Range Transportation Plan is a federally required process that sets the state’s 25-year vision for transportation. Missouri’s current plan was approved in February of 2014, but new federal laws and regulations require additional content, including system performance metrics and targets.

MoDOT is gathering public input for the plan through an online survey tool. The survey – which takes approximately 10 minutes to complete –will remain open through Wednesday, October 11^th. We have a link to the survey available on our website.

Officials are encouraging those who need access to a computer to visit their local public library or MoDOT District Office. MoDOT District Offices will also have paper copies of the survey available.

SURVEY LINK: https://modotlrtp.metroquest.com/

Wednesday September 13, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGEA Poplar Bluff woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest early Tuesday morning in Scott County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old Chelsi Faries was arrested shortly before 2 am Tuesday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Faries was held in Scott County on a 24 hour hold.

  2ND MAN ARRESTED IN SCOTT COUNTY ON PROMOTING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE Another arrest has been made in Scott County for a promoting child pornography charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old William Holland, of Morley, was arrested at around 3:30 pm Tuesday on a charge of felony promoting child pornography 1st degree.

A Sikeston man was also arrested in Scott County on the same charge Monday night. Officials did not say if the two arrests were connected.

RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF A Relay for Life event has been scheduled for this Friday in Poplar Bluff.

The event will be held from 6 pm to Midnight on September 15th at Fred M. Morrow Stadium.

Relay for Life is a family friendly event that benefits the American Cancer Society. Organizers say there will be activities for all ages at the event.

Area Businesses can also form a team or host a one-time fundraiser to partner with Relay for Life.

GRIEF COUNSELORS AT PARAGOULD HIGH SCHOOL TUESDAY FOLLOWING STUDENT’S DEATH A Northeast Arkansas high school student died following school on Monday.

Sophomore Dacota Chamberlain passed away on a Paragould school bus while on the way home Monday afternoon.

Paragould School District Officials issued a statement yesterday which said that counselors were brought to the high school campus to provide grief support to those in need.

A cause of death has not been released.

MOTORISTS AND FARMERS ARE URGED TO STAY ALERT ON ROADWAYS Many area farmers will soon be starting or are already in the process of harvesting their crops and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be prepared for heavier farm machinery traffic, especially on rural highways.

When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, remember to slow down and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

Officials say that collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. Be sure to watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

According to the Highway Patrol, in 2016 there were a total of 158 traffic crashes in Missouri involving farm equipment. In those crashes three people were killed and 62 were injured.

POPLAR BLUFF TRAP TEAM HOLDING MEMBERSHIP DRIVE A membership drive is underway to get students in Poplar Bluff involved in shooting sports.

The Poplar Bluff Trap Team is holding a membership drive in an effort to get more students involved at an early age.

Trap is open to male and female students, grades 7-12 and this is the third year Junior High students are able to participate on the team, after the Board of Education approved the expansion of the program to allow students to gain two more years of competitive experience.

The first trap meet of the 2017/18 season will take place next month at the Poplar Bluff Gun Club. The cutoff date for students to sign up is Thursday, September 21st.

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

ONE KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR MARBLE HILL

  A single vehicle wreck in Bollinger County has claimed the life of a Marble Hill man.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 63 year old Robert Lincoln was driving on Missouri Highway 51 yesterday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and struck several trees.

Lincoln was pronounced dead at the scene by Bollinger County Coroner Charles Hutchings.

  MINOR KILLED IN PARAGOULD WRECK

  A young child was killed in a wreck Sunday morning in Paragould.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred at around 9:30 am Sunday on Highway 49 at Linwood Drive.

27 year old Kevin Deck, of Paragould, was stopped at a red light when his vehicle was hit from behind by a vehicle driven by 32 year old Iftu Glamo, also of Paragould. Deck’s vehicle then struck another vehicle stopped at the light.

A two year old girl in Deck’s vehicle died from injuries received in the wreck. Deck, Glamo, and passengers in both of their vehicles were injured and taken to area hospitals.

  JUDGE DROPS LEAVING THE SCENE CHARGE AGAINST BENJAMIN RESSELL

  A judge has dropped one of the charges that had been filed against a Poplar Bluff man who had been charged following the 2015 death of Heavenly Hafford.

According to Missouri Case Net, on Monday, the Court entered a Judgment of Acquittal for Benjamin Ressell on the charge of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

Ressell’s motion for Judgment of Acquittal on the charge of tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution was tentatively denied, and a bench trial has been scheduled for November 20th.

The other man charged in connection to Hafford’s death, Randel Sparks, pled guilty in August to the felony charges of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution. His sentencing was set for October 20th.

  TEENAGER ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

  A teenager has been arrested in connection to a shooting in Pemiscot County that injured another teen.

According to authorities, the 16 year old victim was allegedly shot in the head by 17 year old Joseph Mooney, of Deering, on Sunday.

Mooney reportedly said that he did not think the gun was loaded and was only trying to scare the victim, who has been transported to a Memphis hospital.

Mooney has been charged with first degree assault, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a firearm.

  SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY RELATED CHARGE

  A Sikeston man has been taken into custody in Scott County on a child pornography related charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old David Hunsperger was arrested Monday night on a charge of felony promoting child pornography 1st degree.

Following his arrest, Hunsperger was held at the Scott County Jail.

  CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROAD THAT WAS WASHED AWAY BY FLOODING IN WAYNE COUNTY

  Construction is scheduled to begin today in Wayne County as contractor crews replace a roadway that washed away during last spring’s flood.

The construction will be on a portion of Route HH which is located from east of the Clearwater Dam to Route RA.

The project is anticipated to be completed by Tuesday, October 31st.

Monday September 11, 2017

TODAY IS THE 16TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TERRORISTS ATTACKS OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001Today is the 16th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks that resulted in the deaths of almost 3,000 people.

Terrorists hijacked four planes and crashed two of them into the World Trade Center buildings in New York City. A third plane was flown into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. The fourth plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania.

Thousands of 9/11 victims' relatives, survivors, rescuers and others are expected to gather today at the World Trade Center to remember the deadliest terror attack on American soil.

Observances also are planned at the Pentagon and the Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump plan to observe a moment of silence at the White House this morning in addition to paying their respects at the Pentagon observance.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY A Poplar Bluff man was flown to a regional hospital last week following a wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Justin Deckard was driving on Highway 67 Friday afternoon, when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

Deckard was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck and suffered serious injuries. Officials say he was flown to Barnes Jewish hospital in St. Louis.

ROUTE JJ IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TO BE CLOSED FOR THE FIRST PART OF THIS WEEK Route JJ in New Madrid County will be closed early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform fly coating.

According to MoDOT, the section of Route JJ to be closed is located between Route D and the Stoddard County line.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today and tomorrow from 6 am to 4:30 pm each day.

THREE CHILDREN INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN UTV WRECK IN BOLLINGER COUNTY Three children were injured Friday night in a UTV wreck in Bollinger County.

According to authorities, the UTV was being driven by a 13 year old boy from Sturdivant when the vehicle ran off the side of a field road and overturned.

The teen suffered serious injuries and was flown to St. Louis Children’s hospital. A 9 year old passenger received moderate injuries and was taken by private conveyance to the same hospital.

A 10 year old passenger suffered minor injuries and refused medical treatment.

TWO ARRESTED ON FELONY METH AND TAMPERING CHARGES IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Two people were arrested late Friday night in New Madrid County on multiple felony charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 27 year old Samantha Thomas, of Qulin, and 27 year old John Johnson, of Malden, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and 2nd degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

Thomas also reportedly had multiple drug related warrants out of Dunklin County.

BRIGGS AND STRATTON ST. JUDE CAR SHOW TO BE HELD ON SEPTEBMER 23RD The 14th Annual St. Jude Car Show presented by Briggs and Stratton has been scheduled for later this month in Poplar Bluff.

The car show will be held on September 23rd at Briggs and Stratton. Registration is scheduled for 8 am to noon and there is a $20 entry fee. Early judging will begin at 9 am with awards being presented at 3 pm.

For more information, call 573-686-3004.

FLY COATING TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF PART OF ROUTE NN IN NEW MADRID COUNTY A New Madrid County road is set to be closed today and tomorrow so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform fly coating.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that Route NN will be closed from 6 am to 4:30 pm both days for the project.

The work zone is located from Route 62 to County Road 524.

Friday, September 8, 2017

TRIAL DATE SET FOR FORMER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SHERIFF

  A former sheriff in Southeast Missouri will be in court next April on a robbery charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, a jury trial date of April 2nd, 2018 has been scheduled for former Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson for a felony charge of 1st degree robbery.

Hutcheson waived arraignment yesterday and entered a plea of not guilty on the charge.

  SHRINER’S RODEO TO BEGIN TONIGHT AT RAY CLINTON PARK IN POPLAR BLUFF

  The 10th Annual Three Rivers Shriners Championship Rodeo will begin tonight at the Ray Clinton Park arena in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple events at the two day rodeo including calf roping, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding, and barrel racing.

The rodeo will begin at 7 pm both tonight and Saturday night. General admission is $10, with children six and under getting in for free.

  LASER TAG SHOWDOWN SET FOR THIS WEEKEND BETWEEN THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS

  A showdown is set for this weekend between Police and Firefighters in Poplar Bluff.

The first annual Guns and Hoses Laser Tag Contest between the Poplar Bluff Police Department and the Poplar Bluff Fire Department has been scheduled for 2 pm on Sunday, September 10th at Hydro Adventures.

Proceeds from the event will go to Shop with a Hero.

If you would like more information, call 573-727-9322.

  CLINIC TO PROVIDE SERVICES TO SOME SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES BEGINNING ON WEDNESDAY

  A clinic is beginning on Wednesday to provide services to some Southeast Missouri communities.

The US Department of Defense, in partnership with the Delta Regional Authority will be presenting Operation Healthy Delta Innovative Readiness Training from September 13th to September 21st.

The clinic will provide medical, dental, and optical services to residents, ages two and older, in Charleston, Caruthersville, and surrounding communities, who are uninsured, underinsured, or in need of quality care at no cost to the patient.

The clinic will be held in Charleston at Charleston United Methodist and in Caruthersville at Eastwood Memorial UMC. The hours of operation will be from 8 am to 4 pm each day, except for September 17th, which will be noon to 4 pm.

For more information, call 573-379-3851, extension 208.

  HUNTERS REMINDED TO REPORT, NOT SHOOT, FERAL HOGS

  With hunting season approaching, the US Army Corps of Engineers is reminding hunters to report, not shoot, feral hogs.

Officials say that hunting of feral livestock on lands owned by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers is prohibited.

The district has two lake projects in Missouri, Wappapello Lake, which officials say currently has established feral hog populations, and Mark Twain Lake which does not.

Hunters are being asked to report all feral hog sightings by visiting mdc.mo.gov/feralhog or by calling 573-522-4115, extension 3296.

  MISSOURI WELCOME CENTER TO BE CLOSED SATURDAY FOR TREE TRIMMING

  The northbound I-55 Welcome Center in Hayti will be closed on Saturday as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform tree trimming.

Work is scheduled to begin on Saturday at 7 am, with the center reopening at 5 pm.

The work zone will be marked with signs and motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area.

Thursday September 7, 2017

MAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES AFTER CREWS FIND MARIJUANA GROWING ON HIS PROPERTYA man was taken into custody yesterday after a helicopter crew found marijuana plants growing on his property.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that on Wednesday, the Arkansas National Guard Marijuana Eradication choppers, the Clay County Sheriff's Department, members of the Clay County Task Force, and Arkansas Game and Fish flew over Clay County in search of Illegal marijuana plants.

Miller says that officers in the helicopter identified several plants growing on the property of James Yancey. Deputies made contact with Yancey and received permission to search his residence. In all, 52 marijuana plants, approximately four ounces of marijuana, four loaded firearms, and drug paraphernalia were located on the property.

Yancey was arrested and transported to the Clay County Jail where he is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges.

LILBOURN MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY FLEEING CHARGE A Lilbourn man has been arrested in New Madrid County on a felony resisting arrest charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 49 year old Andra Smith was taken into custody early this morning on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and driving while revoked.

Following the arrest, Smith was held in New Madrid County on a 24 hour hold.

POPLAR BLUFF CHEERLEADING KIDDIE CAMP SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK A Poplar Bluff Cheerleading Kiddie Camp for future cheerleaders ages 3 to 6th grade will be held next week.

The camp is scheduled to be held at the Poplar Bluff High School on Tuesday, September 12th from 5 to 6:30 pm, as well as 5 to 6 pm on September 13th and 14th. Registration will begin at 5 pm on September 12th.

The cost is $25 per child and will include a T-shirt.

All Kiddie Camp Cheerleaders will then perform at either the Freshman or Junior Varsity football games on Monday, September 18th.

MAN IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING FOOT CHASE IN NEW MADRID Police officers in New Madrid were involved in a foot chase that went through several properties in the city Wednesday afternoon.

According to the New Madrid Police Department, at around 4:30 pm yesterday, officers responded to an area home for a disturbance.

It was reported that several people were arguing in the front yard of the house and one of them had a gun. When officers arrived, one man fled on foot and officers chased him through several yards with guns drawn. The man was eventually taken into custody.

While retracing the pursuit route, officers found a handgun that the man dropped during the chase. The gun was later found to be stolen out of Sikeston.

Chief Joey Higgerson says the suspect is being held for possession of a stolen firearm and resisting arrest. The suspect’s name was not released.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR HEALTH SCREENINGS AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL A date has been set for 10th grade health screenings at Poplar Bluff High School and school officials say that volunteers are needed.

The screenings will be held on Tuesday, October 3rd in the Library and Excel Room and the nurses are needing several parent volunteers to help with the screenings.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to contact the school nurse, Mrs. Jameson at 785-6471.

AREA CHURCH COLLECTING ITEMS FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS A Poplar Bluff church is collecting several items for hurricane victims in Texas.

Dave Elledge with the Bluff Church tells us that are collecting diapers, baby food, formula, and feminine hygiene products.

A truck will be in the parking lot of the Holliday Inn in Poplar Bluff from 8 am to 2 pm on Friday and Saturday as well as 8 am to 10:30 am and noon to 2 pm on Sunday to collect the items.

Elledge says that a church member is working with a veterans group in Arkansas to get the items to Texas.

Anyone with questions can contact the church at 573-712-0902.

Wednesday September 6, 2017

EIGHT DIED IN TRAFFIC CRASHES IN MISSOURI DURING LABOR DAY HOLIDAY WEEKENDState officials say there was a decrease in fatalities over the Labor Day holiday weekend this year compared to last year.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, eight people died in traffic crashes during the 2017 Labor Day holiday weekend, compared to 20 yeast year.

The total amount of crashes and injuries were up, however. This year, the Highway Patrol says they investigated 317 crashes which resulted in 112 injuries. In 2017, there were 299 traffic crashes, which included 108 injuries.

Boating crashes and injuries were lower for the weekend as well.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES An area man was taken into custody Tuesday morning in Butler County on multiple drug related charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 46 year old Brian Owens, of Dexter, was arrested shortly after 8 am Tuesday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Owens is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, he was transported to the Butler County Jail.

TWO BRIDGES ARE SET TO BE REPLACED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission have announced plans to replace two bridges in Dunklin County next year.

The Route N project involves replacing the bridge over Honey Cypress Ditch near Senath. The bridge is located approximately a half of a mile east of the Route 412 and N intersection.

The Route O project involves replacing the bridge over Snipe Slough Ditch in the Kennett area, approximately one mile south of the Route 84 and O intersection.

Construction is anticipated to begin as early as next spring. As construction is underway, Routes N and O will be closed to through traffic in the vicinity of the bridges.

Any person affected by this project may request that a public hearing be held in regard to the proposed improvements. For more information, contact Project Manager Eric Krapf at 573-472-5261.

HEROIN ARREST MADE IN BUTLER COUNTY Authorities in Butler County arrested a Poplar Bluff man Monday night on a heroin related charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Richard Thatcher was arrested on a felony charge of possession of heroin.

Thatcher is also facing charges of driving while intoxicated - drugs, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

PORTION OF HIGHWAY 67 NEAR STATE BORDER TEMPORARILY CLOSED YESTERDAY FOLLOWING WRECK A portion of Highway 67 was temporarily closed yesterday following a wreck near the Missouri and Arkansas Border.

According to authorities, three people were injured in the single vehicle wreck. One of the people injured was flown to a Memphis hospital.

No information was available on the identities or extent of the injuries of those involved.

BERNIE MAN IN CUSTODY ON CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT A Bernie man is behind bars this morning following his arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 37 year old Thomas Lynn Stucker was taken into custody on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation.

Stucker’s bond was set at $35,000 cash, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

According to Missouri Case Net, Stucker’s arraignment is scheduled for 9 am on Thursday.

VETERANS TO GET OPPORTUNITY TO GET THEIR PICTURES TAKEN AT UPCOMING EVENT An event scheduled for later this month in Poplar Bluff will give veterans the opportunity to get their picture professionally taken.

A professional photographer will be available at the “Patriot Pictures” event on September 16th at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.

The free event will be available from 10 am to 3 pm and the pictures taken will be printed there for the veterans.