Monday May 7, 2018

RECTOR MAN KILLED IN CLAY COUNTY WRECK

A Rector man was killed in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend in Clay County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 57 year old Alberto Escandon-Martinez was driving on Highway 119, south of Rector, Saturday night when his vehicle ran off the roadway and struck an embankment.

Officials say that Escandon-Martinez died in the wreck while a minor in the vehicle was injured and transported to a Memphis hospital.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING STABBING IN KENNETT

An investigation is ongoing in Kennett following a reported stabbing.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that early Thursday morning officers were dispatched to the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in reference to an assault.

Few details about the incident have been released, but police say that a subject in the ER had been stabbed and was subsequently flown to a Memphis hospital for treatment.

The incident is under investigation and no further details have been released.

LOCAL USE TAX TO BE DISCUSSED AT POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT

A possible use tax is on the agenda to be discussed tonight during the Poplar Bluff City Council meeting.

The meeting will begin at 7 pm at the Black River Coliseum.

One of the items on the agenda for tonight is a discussion about the City of Poplar Bluff authorizing and directing the submission of a ballot proposition for Poplar Bluff voters to consider imposing a local use tax at the same rate as the local sales tax for purchases from Out-of-State vendors that exceed two thousand dollars.

The vote would be held during the municipal election on August 7th.

The City Council will also review a request from the Planning Department to approve a residential subdivision featuring 14 lots located at 1637 Barron Road.

ROUTE H IN DUNKLIN AND STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK

Route H in Dunklin and Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route U to Route J.   

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

TWO MEN EACH ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY SATURDAY NIGHT

Two men were each arrested on a meth charge shortly before 10:30 pm Saturday night in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Cody Shearin, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Troopers also arrested 19 year old Jesse Killian, of Dexter, on warrants out of Poplar Bluff and Dexter and a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Following their arrests, both men were transported to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. 

KENNETT POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN BUSINESS BURGLARY

Authorities in Kennett are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in connection to a burglary at an area business.

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly before 9 am on Friday, officers were dispatched to Shaker’s bar on Second Street in reference to a burglary. At the scene, officers learned that someone had entered the building without permission and stolen several items.

We have photos of the suspect available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the suspect is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department at (573)-888-4622.

TWO FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two men are each facing a felony meth charge following their arrest last week in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, both 32 year old Joshua Trokey, of Cadet, and 28 year old Curry Brawley, of Poplar Bluff, were taken into custody early Friday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

Each man is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

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. 

Friday, May 4, 2018

TWO POPLAR BLUFF ROADS TRANSITION TO TWO WAY STREETS TODAY

Two roadways in Poplar Bluff will no longer be for one way traffic starting today. 

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the one-way portions of Main Street and Broadway Street in downtown Poplar Bluff are now both two-way streets.

According to officials, the transition occurred at 6 am this morning. 

CONSOLIDATION DATE FOR KENNETT HOSPITAL PUSHED UP A MONTH

Updating a story we brought to you earlier this week, the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett will be consolidating operations with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center earlier than originally expected. 

The Kennett hospital will now no longer offer inpatient, emergency room, or outpatient services after June 30th.  

The hospital has also received notice that after May 17th, it will no longer have obstetric/gynecologic physician coverage and will no longer provide planned, inpatient childbirth services. 

THREE FROM POPLAR BLUFF SELECTED FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S SENIOR SERVICE AWARD

Three people from Poplar Bluff have been selected for the 2018 Lieutenant Governor’s Senior Service Award. 

Lieutenant Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that the award promotes and highlights the positive accomplishments Missouri’s senior citizens provide to their local communities. 

John Holland, Earl Pennington, and Calvin Williams, of Poplar Bluff, were among the 90 total winners chosen this year across the state.

Other local winners include John Cook from Wappapello, Barbara Gatewood of Doniphan, and James Geohagen from Kennett.  

NO ONE INJURED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY SHOOTING INCIDENT

No one was injured during a shooting incident earlier this week in New Madrid County. 

According to authorities, people were inside a residence in Parma when shots were fired at the residence. 

There was no information available on if any arrests have been made in connection to the incident. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Thursday night. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Dale Dover was arrested at around 9 pm Thursday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

He is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Following his arrest, Dover was held at the Butler County Jail. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOARD MEETINGS TO MOVE TO THE BLACK RIVER COLISEUM

Council meetings in Poplar Bluff will be held at a new location beginning next week.

According to officials, effective Monday May 7th, council meetings, municipal court, and any board meetings that were previously held at 101 Oak Street will now be held at the Black River Coliseum 

The entrance for the chamber, board meeting rooms, and court is across from the Independent Living Center on Cedar Street.

ALMOST MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 172 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with an 11 foot width restriction this month as contractor crews overlay the road with asphalt.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation the work zone is located between Route 67 and State Park.

Weather permitting, work will performed today through Thursday, May 31st from 6 am to 6 pm daily.

Thursday May 3, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY METH CHARGE

An area woman has been taken into custody on a felony meth charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 51 year old Jill Bieri, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested at around 7:30 pm Wednesday night on a charge of felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Bieri is also facing a misdemeanor charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and was held in the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 15 YEARS IN PRISON ON CHILD PORONGRAPHY CHARGE

A Caruthersville man has been sentenced to over 15 years in prison on a child pornography charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 42 year old Darryl Herron pled guilty in January to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

The investigation began in April 2017 after law enforcement officials discovered Herron was uploading images and videos consisting of child pornography to a cloud storage account and seized his mobile phone.

A sexually explicit image of a juvenile was found during an examination of the phone. At his guilty plea hearing Herron admitted that he used his phone to take the photograph.

Herron was sentenced Tuesday to 200 months in federal prison.

TWO IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT OPERATIONS PLANNED FOR THIS MONTH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that the agency is planning two operations this month for Southeast Missouri.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Highway Patrol, says that sometime during the month of May, Troop E officers will be conducting two impaired driving enforcement operations in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

An exact date or location for the two operations was not announced.

15 ARRESTS MADE DURING WARRANT ROUND UP IN SIKESTON AREA

A warrant round up yesterday in the Sikeston area resulted in numerous arrests.

Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety says that a total of 15 people were taken into custody during the operation which began at around 6 am Wednesday.

A majority of the arrests were for possession or delivery of a controlled substance.

Broom says that the Scott County Sheriff, Cape Girardeau Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, ATF, and SEMO Drug Task Force assisted with the round up and the Missouri National Guard also assisted with supplying air coverage.

The following persons were arrested;

Bobby Lee Moore of Sikeston Possession of Controlled Substance

Katarious Harrington of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Eddie Moore of Sikeston Fail to Register as a Sex Offender

Thomas Wiley Jr. of Sikeston Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Milas Walker of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Kenneth Hodgkiss of Sikeston Forgery/Identity Theft

Deadrian Armstrong of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Daniel Springer of Sikeston Possession of a Controlled Substance

Theresa Miller of Sikeston Possession of a Controlled Substance

Samantha Wilkinsons of Sikeston Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Cody Vanover of Benton, MO Assault 2nd/Armed Criminal Action/Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident

William “Jessie” Oakes of East Prairie, MO Possession of Controlled Substance

Melissa Randol of Cape Girardeau Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Rachel Ervin of Cape Girardeau Possession of a Controlled Substance

Christopher Messmer of Jackson, MO Possession of a Controlled Substance

MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG REALTED CHARGES

Authorities in Pemiscot County have arrested a Bonne Terre man on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Leo Mattingly was taken into custody Wednesday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Mattingly is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, Mattingly was held at the Pemiscot County Jail.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER RECEIVING METHAMPHETAMINE IN THE MAIL

Two people in Northeast Arkansas have been taken into custody after they received methamphetamine through the mail.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Gregory Farndsen and Ashley Helzer-Farndsen were arrested after information was gathered about a controlled substance being sent to them in the mail numerous times.

Carter says the Sheriff's Department stood by with a search warrant while US Postal Inspectors delivered the package.

Deputies then entered the home and seized a 30 gram block of crystal methamphetamine.

Wednesday May 2, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Poplar Bluff man was killed in a single vehicle wreck late last night in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 28 year old Derek Sieben was driving on US 160 near Ringo Ford when his vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck an embankment, became airborne, and then struck another embankment.

Sieben was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Andy Moore.

FIVE MEN FOUND GUILTY OF BURGLARY IN POPLAR BLUFF AREA

Five men have been found guilty of a burglary in the Poplar Bluff area.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that Demarlon Richardson, of Poplar Bluff, and Germonde Brunner, Arlandus Howard, Norlando Jackson, and Antywan Seawood, of East St. Louis, Illinois, were found guilty of the burglary of a federally licensed firearms dealer known as Instapawn.

The burglary occurred on February 28, 2017, when the five men stole over 60 firearms. Howard was found guilty by a jury and the other four men entered guilty pleas.

Officials say the maximum term of imprisonment for the crime is ten years.

ST. LOUIS MAN DROWNS IN IRON COUNTY

A St. Louis man has died following an incident Tuesday afternoon in Iron County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, at around 3:20 pm 24 year old Rashad Moungo reportedly fell from a rock cliff into water at Elephant Rocks State Park.

Moungo submerged in the water and never resurfaced.

Officials say he was pronounced dead by Iron County Coroner Tim Harbison at around 5:25 pm.

DONIPHAN MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR KIDNAPPING AND FIREARM CHARGES

A Doniphan man has been sentenced in connection to an incident in March of last year.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 36 year old Heath Miller was sentenced yesterday to 25 years on one felony count of kidnapping and one felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

At his plea in January, Miller admitted that on March 8, 2017, he entered the home of his victim in Kennett and shocked her with a stun gun. Miller sexually assaulted the victim in her home, and then took her and her child from Kennett to Ripley County.

At that location, the victim managed to get away from Miller and escape with her child.

Miller was captured ten days later after he had broken into a cabin and stole a handgun.

SENATOR ROY BLUNT TO VISIT SIKESTON THREE RIVERS CAMPUS TODAY

United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Sikeston today to tour the city’s Three Rivers College campus.

Blunt will be visiting with students and talking about the importance of Pell Grants, a federally funded needs-based program that helps students pay for a college education.

The Pell Grant program was expanded this year to provide grants for Summer classes, as well as the Fall and Spring semesters.

Three Rivers College officials say this will allow qualifying students to continue taking classes in the summer and finish their degrees faster.

For more information about Pell Grants and information on applying for financial aid, visit trcc.edu/financialaid.

CITIZENS IN PARAGOULD WARNED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR COUNTERFEIT MONEY

Residents in Paragould are being warned to stay on the lookout for counterfeit money.

According to the Paragould Police Department, there have been numerous reports of phony $20 bills being circulated in the city, more specifically at weekend yard sales.

All citizens who plan on hosting a yard sale should be aware of these bills and need to vigilantly inspect any bills they accept for payment.

Should an attempt be made to pay you with one of these bills, do not accept it and make a report to your local authorities.

We have pictures of the counterfeit bills being used available on the KWOC Facebook page.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route H in Stoddard County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

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

Work is scheduled to take place both today and tomorrow from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

KENNETT HOSPITAL TO CONSOLIDATE WITH POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL THIS SUMMER

The Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett will be consolidating operations with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center this summer. 

According to State Representative for Missouri District 150, Andrew McDaniel, PBRMC plans to maintain local access in Kennett for primary care and select diagnostic imaging and lab services after July 31st and those services are currently set to be held in the Plaza medical office building on the Twin Rivers campus.

After July 31st, the Kennett hospital will no longer offer inpatient, emergency room, or outpatient services. 

MULTIPLE AREAS IN CLAY COUNTY TO BE WITHOUT POWER FOR PART OF TODAY

Multiple communities in Clay County will be without power for part of this afternoon. 

According to the Clay County Electric Cooperative, there will be a planned outage beginning at 1 pm today in all areas served by the Blooming Grove Substation. The Cooperative says that the maintenance is to improve service reliability. 

The areas to be without power include Knob east to Trammelville, Highway 141 to McDougal, and everything feeding east towards Fagus and St. Francis.

Anyone whose power has not been restored by 4 pm is asked to call 1-800-521-2450.

ALLEY SPRING PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE CLOSED AT OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS

A pedestrian bridge in Southeast Missouri has been permanently closed. 

According to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the pedestrian bridge over the Jacks Fork River along Highway 106 at Alley Spring is permanently closed and the Jacks Fork River beneath and adjacent to the bridge is temporarily closed to all visitor use. 

The closure includes all activities such as swimming, floating, fishing and gravel bar use within 100 feet of the bridge, but does not affect the highway bridge.

An emergency inspection recently performed by a Federal Highway Administration bridge engineer determined the stability of the pedestrian bridge has been compromised and has now created a safety hazard to anyone nearby.

Officials say that the Alley Spring pedestrian bridge is scheduled for removal as soon as possible, but that will likely occur later in 2018. The pedestrian bridge and adjacent section of the Jacks Fork River will remain closed until demolition is complete and the hazard is removed.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

Students at Poplar Bluff High School will be holding an art show tonight. 

The Poplar Bluff High School Art Show is scheduled for 6 to 8 pm tonight in the cafeteria. 

There will be multiple performances including the choir students singing, the drama club performing monologues and skits, and English students reading poetry. 

There will also be student artwork on display and snacks prepared by the advanced foods class.

ROUTE N IN RIPLEY COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

The section of Route N to be closed is located approximately 2 miles south of Route 142.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

HIGHWAY PATROL’S ANNUAL BUOY AUDIT BEGINS TODAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced that their annual buoy audit will begin today. 

Colonel Sandra Karsten, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that the Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Division manages thousands of buoy permits, which must be maintained by the individual permit holders.

The annual audit involves verifying the permit holder still owns the property associated with the permit, ensuring the buoy is placed properly, and confirming the buoy displays the correct markings. 

The buoy must also be well maintained and the markings must be visible to boaters. Buoys which are not in compliance with the permit requirements are subject to revocation.

For more information, call 573-751-5071.

Monday, April 30, 2018

MAN SHOT OVER THE WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man was shot over the weekend in Butler County. 

The incident occurred Saturday at Bacon Park in Poplar Bluff where the victim had been shot in both of his legs.
    
An investigation is underway and no information has been released about a possible suspect or motive in the shooting.  

OFFICER INJURED DURING PURSUIT IN KENNETT

An officer was injured during a foot pursuit Saturday in Kennett. 

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that at approximately 2:30 pm Saturday, officers were dispatched to an area residence in reference to a stolen bicycle. Upon arrival, the suspect was present and provided the officers with the name of an individual who had outstanding warrants. 

As officers attempted to arrest the subject on the warrants, he fled and a foot pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, the suspect allegedly caused injury to one of the officers attempting to subdue him and was eventually apprehended in a back yard. 

Officials say the suspect, identified as 37 year old Tyson Pulliam, of Kennett, was arrested on two warrants and transported to the Dunklin County Justice Center. 

He was placed on a twenty-four hour hold pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s Office for resisting arrest for a felony, assault 4th degree on a law enforcement officer, and two counts of property damage.

The injured officer was treated and released by medics. 

WRECK NEAR PUXICO LEAVES MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

One person was flown to an area hospital following a wreck over the weekend in Stoddard County. 

According to authorities, the wreck occurred Sunday morning at around 8:40 am on Missouri Highway 51, four miles north of Puxico. 

A vehicle, driven by 74 year old William Wills, of McGee, reportedly made a left turn in the path of another vehicle and was hit. 

Wills suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital. The driver of the second vehicle received moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

TWO PEOPLE INJURED IN WRECK INVOLVING SCHOOL BUS NEAR WAPPAPELLO

Two people were injured in a wreck involving a school bus Friday afternoon near Wappapello. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the school bus was backing down Barrett Road in Wayne County at around 3:46 pm Friday when it backed into a Pontiac Sunfire. 

The Sunfire received extensive damage while two people inside the vehicle suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

No one inside the school bus was injured during the incident. 

DEXTER WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Dexter woman is facing multiple drug related charges following her arrest Sunday night. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Beverly Scott was taken into custody shortly after 11 pm Sunday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Scott is also reportedly facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

VAN BUREN WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR A BUTLER COUNTY WARRANT

Authorities in Carter County say than an area woman has been arrested on a felony warrant. 

According to authorities, 25 year old Mary Mitchem, of Van Buren, was taken into custody Sunday evening on a felony Butler County warrant for sale of a controlled substance. 

Following her arrest, Mitchem was transported to the Butler County Jail. 

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri Sunday evening. 

Officials with the United States Geological Survey tell KWOC News that a magnitude 2.0 earthquake was recorded at 6:23 pm Sunday, a little over six miles east northeast of Portageville. 

Officials say the earthquake had a depth of over nine miles. 

Friday, April 27, 2018

ATV WRECK LEAVES AREA MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

An area man was badly injured yesterday in an ATV wreck in Shannon County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 76 year old Gerald Derryberry, of Birch Tree, was driving the ATV on Shannon County Road 464 at around 5 pm Thursday when the vehicle ran off the road and overturned. 

Derryberry was ejected during the wreck and suffered serious injuries. Officials say he has been flown to a Springfield hospital. 

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 tomorrow. 

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is one of several area organizations that will be taking part in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Participants must simply bring their medications to the Police Department for disposal. They cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills and patches. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

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

BUFF UP THE BLUFF SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

This year’s Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend and the Poplar Bluff City Hall wants to remind area seniors that items can be picked up. 

Items can be picked up for ages 65 and older on Saturday, only if prior arrangements have been made by calling 573-686-8622. 

Officials say this will be the only way to be included in the curbside pickups.

Items that cannot be included in the pickup include limbs, brush, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, tires, and paint.

There is also a one pick-up truck load limit. 

MASS CASUALTY TRAINING EVENT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Three Rivers College has scheduled its bi-annual mass casualty training event for next week. 

The event will be held from 8 to 11 am on Wednesday, May 2nd in the Bess Activity Center on the Poplar Bluff Campus of Three Rivers College. The training helps prepare students in participating programs for a mass casualty emergency such as a natural disaster or terrorist attack. 

Students from several fields of study will participate in the training, including nursing, EMT, LPN, and Paramedic students. The training will also receive support from local hospitals and ambulance services.

In keeping with the training’s focus on realism, the students themselves will coordinate much of the event, with students serving in leadership, command, and control positions. 

The college is also keeping the type of “disaster” under wraps, so that students have no chance to prepare beforehand.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL RECEIVE NATIONAL RECOGNITION

Two Poplar Bluff Schools have been selected as award winners as a part of the Capturing Kids' Hearts program. 

Lake Road Elementary and Poplar Bluff Junior High were selected among only four schools in Missouri and 123 in the United States as national showcase award winners under the program, which teaches processes in order to increase students' connectedness with both peers and adults on campus. 

Junior High first piloted the initiative during the 2013/14 school year. Now a district-wide practice, Lake Road began implementation in 2016.

NEW TOOL RELEASED TO HELP RURAL MISSOURIANS ACCESS BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has announced the launch of a new tool to help members of rural communities find and access the network of business and community development resources.

Greatens tells KWOC News that the Missouri Rural Resource Guide will serve as a directory for resources in six categories:  Infrastructure, Community Development, Community Services, Business Development, Workforce Education, and Governance. 

Organizations can request to be added directly on the site which can be found at ruralresources.ded.mo.gov. 

Thursday April 26, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MATH-A-THON HAS RAISED OVER $1 MILLION DOLLARS OVER ALMOST 30 YEARS

The Poplar Bluff R-1 School District has announced that the school has raised over $1 million dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital over the past three decades.

According to school officials, a St. Jude representative says that while several individual schools in the United States have surpassed Poplar Bluff's $45,000 contribution this year, R-I is the only participant that has contributed on a district-wide basis for 30 years consistently.

The district's participation started at O'Neal Elementary in the 1988/89 school year with retired principal Lorenzo Sandlin.

While Math-A-Thon is a K through 8 fundraiser, the entire district contributes in some capacity, including fun books, skate nights, dress-down days, and more.

Sandlin's coordinating successor, Oak Grove Principal Jenifer Richardson, noted that the community plays a huge part too, donating portions of proceeds if not 100 percent during business nights.

BICYCLE SAFETY WORKSHOP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free workshop will be held this weekend in Poplar Bluff about bicycle safety.

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the University of Missouri Extension, and the Butler County 4-H have partnered to offer the workshop from 10 am to noon this Saturday at Whiteley Park.

There will be multiple stations as a part of the workshop where youth can learn about various things including traffic laws, proper helmet fitting, and bicycle maintenance.

For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 573-686-8645.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF ROADS TO TRANSITION TO TWO WAY STREETS NEXT WEEK

Two roadways in Poplar Bluff will no longer be for one way traffic starting next week.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the one-way portions of Main Street and Broadway Street in downtown Poplar Bluff will both become two-way streets.

The transition is set to occur at 6 am on Friday, May 4th.

19TH ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD FRIDAY

The 19th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is scheduled to begin tomorrow

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled to begin at 1 pm Friday at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Lunch will be served at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go toward student scholarships and teacher projects.

For more information, contact Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill's office at 573-785-7751.

CLARKTON FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST FUNDRAISING AUCTION NEXT WEEK

An area fire department will be hosting a fund raising auction next week.

The event will be held by the Clarkton Fire Department at 6 pm on May 3rd at the Clarkton Auction House.

Officials say there will be multiple items up for bid; including gift certificates, free oil changes, and autographed memorabilia.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

MISSING NAYLOR WOMAN FOUND SAFE

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a missing Naylor woman has been found safe. 

According to Ripley County Sheriff Mike Barton, Bonnie White was admitted into a nursing home in Poplar Bluff and is doing well. 

The Endangered Silver Advisory for White has been cancelled. 

ANOTHER AREA BUSINESS WARNED OF POSSIBLE HEPATITIS A EXPOSURE

Another area business is being warned about possible Hepatitis A exposure. 

The Arkansas Department of Health is warning of a possible Hep A exposure after an employee of the Doublebee’s gas station in Walnut Ridge tested positive for the virus.

Anyone who ate at the facility between April 7th and April 18th should seek care immediately if they have never been vaccinated against Hep A or are unsure of their vaccination status.

The Lawrence County Local Health Unit in Walnut Ridge will be holding a walk-in clinic today from 8 am to 4:30 pm to provide vaccinations. 

According to the Arkansas Department of Health, so far this year, 13 cases of Hep A have been reported in this outbreak. Five of the cases have involved food service workers and all 13 of the current cases have been in adults. 

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN SIKESTON

Officials in Sikeston are investigating a Tuesday shooting. 

According to authorities, the victim had suffered multiple gunshot wounds when they were found Tuesday evening on Mary Street. 

The victim was transported to an area hospital. No arrests have been made in connection to the shooting. 

WOMAN LISTED IN CRITICAL CONDITION FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN KENNETT

An investigation has been started following a shooting incident in Kennett. 

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly before 4 pm Tuesday, officers were dispatched to an area residence in reference to a victim who had reportedly shot them self.

The victim was flown to a Memphis hospital and is listed in critical condition. 

Officials with the Kennett Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control, and the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department have been involved with the investigation and no foul play is suspected at this time. 

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Williamsville man was taken into custody Tuesday night on multiple felony charges. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Leroy Foley was arrested at around 9:15 pm Tuesday on felony charges of armed criminal action, felon in possession of a firearm, and DWI. 

Following the arrest, officials say that Foley was held in Dunklin County. 

MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET TO RETURN TO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE THIS MONTH

The Moscow Festival Ballet is set to return to Three Rivers College at the end of this month. 

College officials tell KWOC News that the performance of “The Sleeping Beauty” will be held on Monday, April 30th, beginning at 7 pm. 

The performances will be the final show of the current Patrons of the Arts season at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. 

Tickets are $15 each and are available online at trcc.edu/tinnin and in person at the college Student Accounts Office. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door. 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY ON ROUTE EE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route EE in Butler County is being reduced to one lane so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, Route EE is being reduced between County Roads 267 and 265.

Work work will take place through tomorrow and the work zone will be left up overnight with barricades in place.

WEEK AND A HALF LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A week and a half long road project is set to begin today in Pemiscot County. 

Northbound I-155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with an 11-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to MoDOT, the work zone is located from the Tennessee State line to Route 84 and work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Saturday, May 5th.

Tuesday, April 24, 2018

ENDANGERED SILVER ADVISORY ISSUED FOR MISSING WOMAN

An Endangered Silver Advisory has been issued for a woman missing out of Ripley County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 66 year old Bonnie Kay White was last seen at her residence in Naylor on April 11th, but has not been located since and is without necessary medication and oxygen. Officials say White has been diagnosed with onset dementia and emphysema. 

She is described as a white female, weighing 140 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with information on White’s whereabouts is asked to call the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department at 573-996-5555 or contact your local law enforcement agency. 

NEELYVILLE MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TWO VEHICLE WRECK

A Neelyville man was injured in a two vehicle wreck Monday evening in Butler County. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 79 year old James Tubb pulled into the path of a vehicle on County Road 488, around four miles south of Poplar Bluff. 

Tubb suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the other vehicle. 

MAN FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN PUXICO

Authorities are investigating a fatal fire in Puxico. 

49 year old Robert Wallace was found dead following a fire at a residence on Sunday. 

No cause for the fire has been released and an autopsy is set to be conducted on Wednesday. 

ONE INJURED, TWO IN CUSTODY, FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN SCOTT COUNTY

One person is in stable, but serious condition, following a shooting in Scott County. 

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, shortly before 4 am Monday, the Sheriffs’ Office received a report of a male subject walking on State Highway HH with a gunshot wound.

Officers made contact with the victim, identified as Matthew Williams, of Sikeston, who stated that he had been shot numerous times while at a residence in rural Scott County. Williams was taken to a local hospital, and later transported to a St. Louis area hospital for treatment.

Two persons of interest in the shooting, Dylan Nobles and Ronald Langley, both from the Sikeston area, have been taken into custody. 

STATE OFFICIALS INVESTIGATING ILLEGAL POACHING CASE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri Department of Conservation is investigating an illegal poaching case in Southeast Missouri. 

According to the Department of Conservation, Hayti Fire Department personnel reported illegal poaching activity to a Conservation Agent last Thursday after discovering a dump site of dead turtles while fighting a wildfire. 

The agent determined the large pile of turtles included 161 red-eared sliders and two snapping turtles.

Conservation officials are asking for the public’s help in the investigation. Information about the incident can be shared anonymously through the Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-392-1111. Information leading to an arrest may lead to an award of up to $1,000.

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 this weekend. 

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is one of several area organizations that will be taking part in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 28th from 10 am to 2 pm.

Participants must simply bring their medications to the Police Department for disposal. They cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills and patches. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

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

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route 153 in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway to be closed is located from Route 62 to County Road 340.

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

Monday April 23, 2018

MULTIPLE FIRES IN KENNETT BEING INVESTIGATED AS ARSON

Authorities in Kennett say that multiple recent fires are under investigation.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that at approximately 7:15 pm Saturday, officers and the fire department were dispatched to a structure fire on Kennett Street. The fire, along with a separate fire nearby earlier in the day, is being investigated as arson.

Officials say that there are currently no suspects in connection to the fires.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF BURGLARY INVESTIGATION

Police in Poplar Bluff have made an arrest following a burglary last week.

Poplar Bluff Chief of Police Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that on Friday, officers responded to B and H Auto Electric to investigate a burglary which occurred in the overnight hours.

An employee reported several thousand dollars worth of automotive repair tools and equipment missing along with an ATV and 2018 Jeep Wrangler. While Detectives were processing the scene, the Jeep was seen outside of an area business. The Jeep and the majority of the property taken were then recovered. A short time later, the ATV and the remaining missing property were recovered as well.

While officers searched the east side area of Poplar Bluff, a suspect, identified as 27 year old Michael Wayne Harris, of GlenAllen, was spotted in a Ford truck. Harris fled from the vehicle which was discovered to be stolen from Worley’s Tree Service. Friday afternoon, Harris was again spotted in the area and taken into custody after a short foot pursuit by officers.

During an interview, Harris admitted that he was under the influence of methamphetamine during the burglary and gave a full confession regarding the burglary and thefts of the vehicles.

Whitely says Harris is being held at the Butler County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges of 2nd degree burglary, three counts of theft of a motor vehicle, as well as two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SHANNON COUNTY WRECK

Two people were injured, one seriously, in a wreck Saturday afternoon in Shannon County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Kelly Trogdon, of Eminence, was driving on Missouri Highway 19, when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck two trees.

A passenger in the vehicle, 24 year old Matthew Miller, of Winona, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

Trogdon received minor injuries and was taken by ambulance to an area hospital.

PEDESTRIAN DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN RANDOLPH COUNTY

A Northeast Arkansas man has died after he was hit by a vehicle over the weekend.

According to the Arkansas State Police, at around 9:15 pm Sunday, a vehicle was driving on Highway 115 in Randolph County when it came over a hill and struck a pedestrian in the roadway.

The pedestrian, 30 year old Joshua Allen, of Reyno, was killed in the wreck.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH WARNS OF POSSIBLE HEPATITIS A EXPOSURE AT CORNING BUSINESS

Arkansas health officials are warning of a possible Hepatitis A exposure at a Corning business.

According to the Arkansas Department of Health an employee of the Flash Market and Subway, located at 105 North Missouri Avenue in Corning, tested positive for the virus.

Officials say that anyone who ate at this facility between March 30th and April 17th should seek care immediately if they have never been vaccinated against Hepatitis A or are unsure of their vaccine status.

The Clay County Local Health Unit in Corning will be open today from 8:45 am to 3:30 pm to provide vaccinations.

Health officials in Butler County say they continue to see a rise of Hepatitis A cases week to week. According to the Butler County Health Department, as of Friday, April 20th, there have been a total of 76 confirmed cases in Butler County.

The majority of cases have been linked to people who use drugs, close personal contacts to people who use drugs, and personal contacts to positive Hepatitis A cases.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

TWO ARRESTED FOR METHAMPHETAMINE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people have been taken into custody in Butler County on methamphetamine charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 48 year old Michael Hunter and 34 year old Mitzi Moss, both of Poplar Bluff, were each arrested Saturday night on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Hunter was also arrested on warrants from the Poplar Bluff Police Department and the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, while Moss is also facing a charge of possession of controlled substance in a jail facility.

Following their arrest, both were held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

INTERSTATE 155 REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Southbound I-155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 14-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, work is scheduled to take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Saturday, May 5th.                                                               

The work zone is located from Route U to the Tennessee State line.

Friday April 20, 2018

MALDEN MAN SENTENCED ON MANSLAUGHTER CHARGE

An area man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison in connection to a 2015 shooting.

According to Missouri Case Net, on Thursday Floyd Young, of Malden, was sentenced to 15 years’ incarceration each on charges of voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action. The sentences were set to run consecutively.

Young was taken into custody following the shooting of Dustin Greer in July of 2015. Greer died a few days after the shooting.

Young pleaded guilty to the charges in February of this year.

ARRESTS MADE FOLLOWING BREAK IN AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS PHARMACY

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas say that two arrests have been made in connection to the investigation of a break in at an area pharmacy.

According to the Marmaduke Police Department, On March 16th Christopher Gower, of Bono, was arrested for commercial burglary and theft of property following a break-in at the Marmaduke Family Pharmacy.

An investigation into the incident continued and earlier this week Rachel Fowler, of Jonesboro, was also arrested on a felony bench warrant for commercial burglary and theft of property for her involvement in the break-in.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to contact the Marmaduke Police Department at 870-597-2020.

WEATHER RADIO PROGRAMMING EVENT SET FOR TODAY

You can Spring into Safety today with a weather radio programming event in Poplar Bluff.

River Radio and the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center are hosting the event from 2 to 4 pm this afternoon at Academy Sports and Outdoors.

Just bring your weather radio so it can be programmed by members of the Poplar Bluff Severe Weather Response Team and Butler County Emergency Management Agency to make sure that you are covered in case there is severe weather in the area.

There will also be weather radio’s available for purchase that can be programmed right after you buy it.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Severe Weather Response Team say that weather radios are the best way to stay ahead of severe weather.

With a weather radio in your home or place of business, you will always be alerted when weather watches or warnings are issued.

40th ANNUAL BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 40th Annual Blackpowder Rendezvous has been scheduled for this weekend.

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, will be held from 9 am to dark on Saturday and 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday at the Old Greenville Day Use Area. 

There will be multiple events, including demonstrators, along with primitive traders, vendors, and gun and bow shoots.

For more information, call 573-300-9595.

AUTHORITIES SAY THEY HAVE RECIEVED SEVERAL COMPLAINTS OF WIRE THEFT IN SCOTT COUNTY

Authorities in Scott County say that they have received several recent reports of wire theft.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, they have been receiving several complaints in reference to pivot wire theft and farm equipment being tampered with.

Anyone who has any information about these crimes, or notices anything suspicious, is being asked to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 573-545-3525.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER BEING SEEN MAKING DRUG TRANSACTIONS NEAR A CHURCH

Two men were arrested Thursday after they were allegedly seen making a drug transaction near a church.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Danny Rojas and Nick Sidenstricker were both observed by members of the Greene County Narcotics Team making drug transactions in an alley outside of a church in Marmaduke.

Carter says that Rojas and Sidenstricker were both arrested for delivery of crystal methamphetamine, distribution near a certain facilities, and use of a communication device.

Following the arrest, both men were transported to the Greene County detention center.

EARLY CHILDHOOD RESOURCE FAIR SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Butler County Community Resource Council will be hosting an early childhood resources fair this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The Silly Saturday event is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm Saturday at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.

The fair will feature free hands on activities for children up to eight years old and resource information for parents.

Thursday April 19, 2018

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Sikeston man was taken into custody Wednesday morning in Stoddard County on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Tommy Simmons was arrested shortly before 9:30 am Wednesday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance –methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance inside a correctional facility.

Simmons also reportedly had a felony arrest warrant out of New Madrid County.

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

LEAK CAUSES TURN OFF OF WATER IN CLARKTON

The water was off for a period of time yesterday in Clarkton due to a leak.

According to a post on the Clarkton Fire and Rescue Facebook page, the water was shut off at approximately 1 pm yesterday and part of Murray Street was blocked off so the leak could be repaired. Schools in Clarkton were also dismissed due to the lack of water.

The post says that the city is now under a boil water order until further notice.

MULTIPLE EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR KIDS TO PARKS DAY AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers tell us that multiple activities have been scheduled for the 2018 Kids to Parks day at Wappapello Lake.

The free event has been scheduled for 9 am to 12 pm on Saturday, May 19th at the Redman Creek Recreation Area.

There will be a variety of fun water safety and recreational themed games and activities with prizes also being awarded.

For more information, call the Wappapello Lake Management office at 573-222-8562.

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO ARREST OF MAN IN STEELE

A man was arrested over the weekend following the execution of a search warrant in Pemiscot County.

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on Saturday officers with the Steele Police Department and members of the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department executed a search warrant at a home in Steele.

During the search, officers arrested 25 year old William Thomas Cook on two active warrants for his arrest, one failure to appear warrant through Pemiscot County and another failure to appear warrant through Dunklin County.

Officers also found and seized a handgun and ammunition. Stanfield says that a report has been filed with the Pemiscot County Prosecuting Attorney.

DRIVER FLOWN TO CAPE GIRARDEAU HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A man was flown to an area hospital Wednesday following a wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Destin Pallotta, of Alton, was driving on Highway 142 near Highway P when his vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a mailbox, and overturned.

Officials say that Pallotta suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

FARMINGTON STUDENT WINS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI REGIONAL SPELLING BEE

A 7th Grade Student from Farmington will be representing Southeast Missouri at the 2018 Scripps National Spelling Bee in the Washington, D.C.

Brayden Armes earned the honor by winning the Three Rivers College Southeast Missouri Regional Spelling Bee. The competition involved 39 spellers from 21 area schools, and came to an end after 12 rounds when Armes correctly spelled the word carpentry.

Armes had previously won the Southeast Missouri Regional Spelling Bee in 2016.

He now advances to the National Spelling Bee, which will begin on May 29th.

Wednesday April 18, 2018

SPECIAL POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD TONIGHT

A special meeting of the Poplar Bluff City Council has been scheduled for tonight.

The meeting will begin at 7 pm at the city council chambers.

There are two action required items on the agenda, in the first; the City Council will take action on an ordinance that could potentially lead to a Police Department Union.

The second concerns an ordinance authorizing Mayor Susan McVey to execute a contract and re-fueler lease agreement for the supplying of aviation fuel and fuel equipment to the Poplar Bluff Airport.

The special meeting will then be followed by a closed meeting of the City Council.

OVER 16 GRAMS OF METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZED DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN NORTHEST ARKANSAS

A man was recently taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas after being found with meth.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that a deputy recently conducted a traffic stop, during which he found 16.6 grams of crystal methamphetamine and a digital scale.

Following the discovery, the deputy arrested a man who was identified as Paul Haneline.

TAX FILING DEADLINE PUSHED BACK A DAY

The deadline to get your taxes filed has been pushed back a day.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, it is providing taxpayers an additional day to file and pay their taxes following system issues that surfaced early on the April 17th tax deadline.

Individuals and businesses with a filing or payment due date of April 17th will now have until midnight on Wednesday, April 18th.

Officials say that taxpayers do not need to do anything to receive this extra time. More information is available online at www.irs.gov.

QULIN MAN FACING COCAINE CHARGE

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on a felony cocaine charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Preston Hall, of Qulin, was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – cocaine.

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

Following the arrest, Hall was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Peyton Murphy was taken into custody shortly before 10:30 am in Butler County on a felony charge of possession of marijuana.

Murphy is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and was held at the Butler County Jail.

ROUTE 80 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Route 80 in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Interstate 55 and Route AA.

Officials say that work is scheduled to take place today from 7 am to 6 pm.

Tuesday, April 17, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ATTEMPTING TO LOCATE NON COMPLIANT SEX OFFENDER

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are attempting to locate a non-compliant sex offender. 

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 48 year old John Bryeans, of Poplar Bluff, moved from his residence on April 3rd and did not report his new address to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

We have a picture of Bryeans available on the KWOC Facebook page. 

If you have information on Bryeans’ whereabouts, you are asked to contact Captain David Sutton at 573-686-8649. 

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT TO DISCUSS ALLOWING TEACHERS TO CONCEAL CARRY AT AREA SCHOOL

Administrators at an area school district will be hearing from citizens tonight about the possibility of allowing teachers to conceal carry. 

The public hearing has been scheduled for 7 pm tonight at the Twin Rivers R-X administration office. 

The Twin Rivers R-X school board meeting will follow the hearing. 

40th ANNUAL BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 40th Annual Blackpowder Rendezvous has been scheduled for this weekend. 

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, will be held from 9 am to dark on Saturday and 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday at the Old Greenville Day Use Area.  

There will be multiple events, including demonstrators, along with primitive traders, vendors, and gun and bow shoots. 

For more information, call 573-300-9595.

FREE AUTISM CONFERENCE SCHEDULED FOR EARLY NEXT MONTH

The Butler County Community Resource Council has announced that a free conference on the topic of autism will be held early next month. 

The Autism Conference has been scheduled for 10 am to 3 pm on Friday, May 4th at First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff. 

There will be multiple speakers and sessions during the conference. 

For more information, call 573-776-7830.

CHARLESTON MAN FACING METH CHARGE

A Charleston man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony meth charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Anthony Blasingain was arrested Sunday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

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

CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY ENCOURAGING MISSOURIANS TO PICK UP LITTER

The Missouri Department of Transportation is encouraging area residents to pick up litter. 

Missouri’s 16th annual No MOre Trash! Bash began on Sunday and focuses on “spring cleaning” the outdoors by asking residents to pick up litter throughout the state through May 15th.

Last year, more than 43,000 bags of litter and several truckloads of debris were picked up during the spring No More Trash! Bash. 

Missouri Stream Team Program volunteers also removed 547 tons of litter from waterways and dedicated more than $2.3 million worth of volunteer time to litter removal statewide.

Monday, April 16, 2018

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

A local man was badly injured in a wreck Friday night in Butler County. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 69 year old Billy Ward, of Poplar Bluff, was driving on Route M near US 67 when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck several trees. 

Ward, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

MAN ARRESTED FOR ATTEMPTED FORCIBLE RAPE IN KENNETT

A Malden man has been taken into custody following an alleged incident Friday in Kennett.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that at approximately 11:35am Friday morning, officers were dispatched to a residence in reference to a burglary in progress.

While en route, officers received further information that a female had been injured and that the suspect had fled the residence on foot. 

Officers later arrested 34 year old Larry Green, of Malden, for assault 1st degree and attempted forcible rape. He was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges.

The victim was transported to an area medical center for treatment.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff woman is facing a felony meth related charge following her arrest in Wayne County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Shannon Mansfield was arrested Saturday evening on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine with intent to distribute and endangering the welfare of a child. 

Mansfield is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. 

Following the arrest, she was held at the Wayne County Jail. 

MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING PURSUIT LAST WEEK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man was taken into custody last week following a pursuit in Southeast Missouri. 

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly before 5 pm last Thursday, officers were dispatched to an area business in reference to a shoplifter. As officers attempted to make contact with the suspect, he took off running and entered a vehicle. 

At that point the suspect began attempting to flee in the vehicle during which he struck an officers patrol vehicle. A pursuit followed which came to an end when the driver lost control and became stuck in a ditch in New Madrid County. 

Officials say that 45 year old Christopher Carter, of Florissant, was arrested for felony stealing, assault 2nd degree on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, felonious restraint, and careless and imprudent driving.

OVER APPROXIMATELY $8,000 WORTH OF MARIJUANA SEIZED IN SIKESTON

A drug tip has resulted in the seizure of over approximately $8,000 worth of marijuana in Sikeston. 

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, detectives made contact with 45 year old Jermain Coleman, of Sikeston, following the tip. During the contact, the detectives smelled a very strong odor of marijuana coming from a home and noticed drug paraphernalia lying on a table in plain view.

After receiving permission from Coleman to search his home and vehicle, detectives found a black duffle bag with what appeared to be two bricks of marijuana and a sealed bag. They had an approximate weight of 1,647 grams with an approximate street value of $8,239. 

Officers also found a loaded firearm. 

Coleman was arrested and charged with delivery of a controlled substance and unlawful use of a weapon. His bond was set at $25,000. 

WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN STODDARD COUNTY FOR METHAMPHETAMINE AND HYDROCODONE

Authorities in Stoddard County say that an area woman has been taken into custody on multiple felony controlled substance charges. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Rachel Floyd, of Campbell, was arrested Saturday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and hydrocodone. 

Floyd was also arrested on charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana and was held at the Stoddard County Jail. 

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR EDGE RUT REPAIRS

Route Y in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs. 

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 351 to Route DD.

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

TWO WEEK LONG PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

A two week long pavement repair project is beginning today in Stoddard County. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route AC in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane from 7 am to 4 pm daily through Monday, April 30th so crews can perform the pavement repairs. 

The work zone will be located between Route 25 and County Road 237.

Friday March 13, 2018

TWO PIGGOTT RESIDENTS ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two Piggott residents were arrested last night in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 40 year old Jessica Whiteside and 21 year old Jonathan Morgan were both taken into custody at around 9 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance and a misdemeanor charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Morgan is facing an additional felony charge of 2nd degree assault on a law enforcement officer.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, both were arrested following a pursuit that started in Northeast Arkansas and ended by Brown Chapel Church in the Broseley area. They have been lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

SIX YEAR OLD CHILD SERIOUSLY INJURED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY WRECK

A young child was one of three people injured in a wreck Thursday in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 80 shortly after 10:35 pm last night.

A vehicle driven by 21 year old Paige Willis, of East Prairie, overturned after running off the side of the road and into a ditch around four miles east of Matthews.  

A six year old child in the vehicle was seriously injured and flown to a St. Louis hospital.

Willis and a 44 year old passenger both were also injured and transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

ADULT MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOFTBALL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN IN POPLAR BLUFF

Registration is now open for the adult men’s and women’s softball leagues in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department, the men’s league will play at Hillcrest Park and the women’s league will play at McLane Park starting in late May.

Sponsorship fees are involved, but will depend on the number of teams registered and the number of games to be played.

Registration forms are available at the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department office at 430 North Second Street as well as at www.poplarbluff-mo.gov.

For more information, call 686-8645.

THREE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING PURSUIT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A police chase through multiple Southeast Missouri communities yesterday has resulted in multiple arrests.

Few details about the incident have been released, but according to authorities the pursuit spanned from Kennett to the New Madrid area.

Three people were taken into custody and their names were not available.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ACCEPTING SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR HALF DAY PROGRAM

The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the 2018-2019 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.

The next screening will be held by appointment only on Thursday, May 24th. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.

BUFF UP THE BLUFF SET FOR APRIL 28TH

We are just over two weeks away from this year’s Buff up the Bluff event and the Poplar Bluff City Hall wants to remind area seniors that items can be picked up.

Items can be picked up for ages 65 and older on Saturday, April 28th, only if prior arrangements have been made by calling 573-686-8622.

Officials say this will be the only way to be included in the curbside pickups.

Items that can not be included in the pickup include limbs, brush, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, tires, and paint.

There is also a one pick-up truck load limit.

Thursday April 12, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF RIPLEY COUNTY

Authorities in Ripley County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on a felony meth charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 56 year old Douglas Herzog was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Herzog is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Herzog was held at the Ripley County Jail.

CARTER COUNTY SHERIFF URGES AREA RESIDENTS TO USE CAUTION WHILE BURNING

A southeast Missouri sheriff is urging area residents to use caution while burning.

Carter County Sheriff Richard Stephens tells KWOC News that even though we have had some rain recently, the conditions remain hazardous and prime for wildfires.

Stephens says that dry conditions coupled with winds have created a severe threat and residents should use the utmost caution when burning.

PIPE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route B in Dunklin County will be closed for part of today as crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

This section of Route B to be closed is located between County Roads 311 and 326.     

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 4 pm.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED FOR CRIME INVOLVING CHILDREN

A Northeast Arkansas man has been taken into custody on numerous felony counts for a crime involving children.

According to Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, 68 year old Brik Waggoner, of Black Rock, was arrested by the Attorney General’s office Cyber Crimes Unit on 30 counts of the Class C felony of distributing, possessing, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.

Special agents in the Attorney General’s office also seized multiple electronic devices from Waggoner’s residence.

Rutledge says that Waggoner is currently being held on bond at the Lawrence County Detention Facility.

AREA HONOR CHOIR SINGS NATIONAL ANTHEM BEFORE CARDINALS GAME

A crowd of over 35,000 people got to hear some students from Southeast Missouri sing on Wednesday.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School Honor Choir was in St. Louis yesterday to sing the national anthem before the Cardinals took on the Milwaukee Brewers.

We have video of the choir singing the anthem available on our Facebook page. 

SCAM PHONE CALLS CLAIMING TO BE FROM IRS REPORTED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Individuals in Dunklin County are reportedly receiving scam phone calls from people claiming to be from the IRS.

Dunklin County Sheriff Bob Holder tells KWOC News that the caller will tell the recipient they have a warrant for their arrest and law enforcement will pick them up unless they send them money.

The caller has valid information about the individual they are calling and will ask that you go to a store that has gift cards and purchase cards and send them to a particular address. The amounts they request to keep from serving the warrant varies.

Holder says that the IRS does not make phone calls and threats regarding warrants and those who are receiving the calls should not send any money because of a phone call. 

DRUG FREE YOUTH RALLY SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

An area organization will be hosting a youth rally this week.

The Butler County Community Resource Council will host a Drug Free Youth Rally from 6 to 9 pm on Friday.

The event, for children 10 to 17 years old, will feature food, music, games, and prizes.

There is no registration necessary. For more information, call 573-776-7830.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT DIAGNOSED WITH HEPATITIS A

Preventative measures have been taken at the Poplar Bluff Junior High School after a student was diagnosed with Hepatitis A. 

According to the Butler County Health Department, the Poplar Bluff R-1 Nursing Department has no reason to suspect that anyone else has been compromised by the virus, which was contracted outside of the education environment, and the risk of student to student transmission is low. 

However, as a preventive measure, all common spaces of the school facility have been disinfected by the custodial staff. 

Butler County is currently experiencing a Hepatitis A Outbreak and the Health Department is asking parents to review your child’s immunization record to see if they can receive the Hepatitis A vaccine. 

The Butler County Health Department is offering vaccination clinics to students, people who use drugs, and close personal contacts to people who use drugs through this Friday.

For more information, call 573-785-8478. 

AREA COMMUNITIES TO SHARE PART OF $100 MILLION DOLLARS IN DISASTER RELIEF FUNDS

Multiple area communities will be receiving part of $100 million dollars in funding for disaster relief projects. 

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens tells KWOC News that funding for the projects will come from Community Development Block Grants awarded to the state yesterday by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

12 projects have been approved by the state, six of which are located in Southeast Missouri. 

Butler County has been approved for almost $35,000 which will be used for repairs, reshaping, surface materials, and equipment needed for county road repair.

Carter County will receive almost $170,000 for a buy-out and demolition of 10 residential properties and one public water district building in Fremont and over $12,000 for repairs to the South Van Buren Sewer District’s damaged sewer systems.

Ripley County has been approved for $30,000 which will be used for a feasibility study of the possibility of one regional justice center designed to serve both Ripley and Carter Counties.

The City of Doniphan will get over $116,000 a buy-out and demolition of 12 residential properties, while the City of Van Buren has been approved for over $120,000 for a buy-out and demolition of nine residential properties.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY WRECK

A Marston man was flown to an area hospital yesterday following a single vehicle wreck in New Madrid County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 57 year old Jerry Jeffords was driving on Interstate 55 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree. 

Jeffords was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital. 

MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LOCATIONS LABELED AS NEW OPPORTUNITY ZONES IN MISSOURI

Several locations in Southeast Missouri have been deemed as New Opportunity Zones, low-income areas that will see added incentives for investment. 

Senator Roy Blunt and Governor Eric Greitens announced the locations of the 161 Opportunity Zones across the state yesterday. 

In Southeast Missouri, the zones are located in Butler County, Kennett, New Madrid County, Pemiscot County, Ripley County, Sikeston, and Wayne County.

Created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the Opportunity Zones program provides investors with a treasury-certified capital-gains tax deferral, based on their investment in the designated areas. 

The program seeks to revitalize and create jobs in areas that otherwise may not be considered by investors.

DATE SET FOR WAPPAPELLO LAKE’S PRESCHOOL PLAY DAY

An upcoming event will help children get a head start on how to be safe around water. 

The US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake will be hosting a free preschool play day on Thursday, May 10th. There will be two sessions of ranger led activities for children ages two to six. Each session will have group games, arts & crafts, songs, stories, and playground fun with a water safety theme. 

To register your child for the event, call the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562 and ask for Erin Snuggs.

ROAD WORK TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF PART OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD

Part of Route B in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

The section of roadway to be closed is located between County Road 311 and Route BB.     

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 4 pm.

Tuesday, April 10, 2018

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN HAYTI

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle early this morning in Pemiscot County. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 23 year old Joshua Woods, of Hayti, was hit by a vehicle at around 2 am on South 4th Street in Hayti. 

Woods suffered moderate injuries and was taken to an area hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle. 

MAN ARRESTED IN POPLAR BLUFF ON FIREARM WARRANT

A man was taken into custody over the weekend in Poplar Bluff on a firearm warrant. 

Lieutenant Darron Moore with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that an officer contacted Tyler Scott Wangler on Saturday in reference to an active warrant for his arrest.

After placing Wangler under arrest for the outstanding warrant, the officer located a handgun in a backpack which Wangler had been carrying. Wangler was also in possession of a set of keys which were confirmed to belong to a stolen vehicle taken from a residence in Butler County.

Wangler was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on a charge of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and an outstanding warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm with a $10,000 bond.

Moore says that federal charges are being sought for the firearms possession.

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, FOLLOWING WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people were injured in a wreck Monday afternoon in Butler County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly before 4 pm on Highway 160 at Ringo Ford. 

A vehicle driven by 35 year old Joshua Rohan, of Poplar Bluff, had reportedly struck the rear of a vehicle and then struck another vehicle. 

Rohan suffered minor injuries. A passenger in his vehicle, 32 year old Jinny Camp, of Naylor, was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to an area hospital. 

DATE SET FOR 19TH ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

A date has been set for the 19th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled to begin at 1 pm on Friday, April 27th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Lunch will also be served at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go toward student scholarships and teacher projects. 

If you would like to enter a team, or became a hole sponsor, contact Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill's office at 573-785-7751.

CREWS TO BE IN STODDARD COUNTY TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route KK in Stoddard 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 114 and County Road 732.

Work will take place from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm each day. 

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route B in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

The work zone will be located between County Road 322 and County Road 326.     

Officials say that work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 4 pm.