SHIPMAN WILL NOT SEEK REELECTION AS PROSECUTOR

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman’s role as the county prosecutor will come to an end at the end of next year.  He made the announcement through an email to local media Thursday.  Shipman did not say why he will not seek reelection in the statement, but did point out that he has served five terms and has never faced an opponent in an election.  He was appointed prosecutor back in 2005 when then-prosecutor David Kolger became a judge.  Shipman will leave the position having spent more time as prosecutor than anyone else in Wayne County’s history.

POLICE DEPT. CLAIMS SHERIFF'S OFFICE RELEASED "VIOLENT WANTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT"

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union City, IN)--The Union City Police Department issued a statement Thursday saying that the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department released who they described as "a known violent illegal immigrant" back into the community.  On Wednesday, a man identified as Marcio Torres was pulled over on a routine traffic stop.  Torres had an active federal arrest warrant for several violent felony charges.  He was then taken to the Randolph County Jail for processing.  But, according to Union City police, the Sheriff’s Department made the decision not to honor the federal warrant and let Torres go free.  Union City added that they are strongly opposed to that course of action.  Torres remained at large Friday morning and is still wanted by federal authorities.  Randolph County has not provided any explanation about why Torres was released.

TRUSTEES CONSIDER IU EAST TUITION FREEZE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Bloomington, IN)--Tuition at IU East could be frozen for the next two years.  The IU Board of Trustees is now considering the tuition freeze for all campuses statewide, including at IU East.  The tuition at IU East and other campuses has not been frozen for a decade.  Since then, tuition has risen by nearly 17%.  Trustees will vote on the proposal in about two weeks.

CENTERVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR STRANGULATION

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--A Centerville man was jailed Thursday on charges that include strangulation.  30-year-old Taylor Mantooth was taken into custody at his home yesterday on East South Street.  He’s also charged with domestic battery.  There is no word on the condition of the alleged strangulation victim.

DOWNTOWN RICHMOND BUILDINGS TO BE CONVERTED TO APARTMENTS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Five downtown Richmond buildings are about to undergo a major renovation that will add another hundred apartments and 20,000 square feet of retail space.  "This is the redevelopment of a significant part of the block between 8th and 9th Streets.  It's all three Knollenburg's buildings, both Hittle buildings, the Harris Bank building, Jenkins next to it, and all three Oddfellows buildings," said developer Jon Anderson addressing the Richmond Redevelopment Commission this week.  The project is part of Revitalize Richmond and will be funded in part through city-issued bonds and TIF revenue.  Construction is expected to take up to a year and a half to complete.  These hundred new apartments will be in addition to the 150 new apartments at the former Elder-Beerman site, now known as 6Main.  During this week’s discussion of new apartments, Richmond Mayor Ron Oler provided some numbers that indicate just how badly housing is needed in Richmond.  "We know from another apartment developer that only three out of every ten appllicants have a local address.  70% of their applicants are from out of the area.  We know that 12,000 people work in Richmond/Wayne County and don't live here.  8000 commute every day," Oler explained.  Oler said that part of the rebranding of the city will include trying to attractive what he called “creatives”, or people attracted to the arts.

MAN CHARGED WITH CHILD SOLICITATION, MOLESTATION

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--A Connersville man has been charged with child molestation and child solicitation.  Investigators say the alleged victim of 35-year-old Blake Snoddy is under the age of 14.  A not guilty plea has been entered on Snoddy’s behalf.  Bond was set at $50,000.  Snoddy faces up to 12 years in prison on the most serious charge.  Details of what led to his arrest have not been released.

WOMAN ACCUSED OF USING JUVENILE TO HELP WITH THEFT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond police released the details of an unusual theft call Wednesday night.  They say that 31-year-old Ashley Brown was seen not only concealing items to steal from the Clark Gas Station on North E Street, she was teaching a child to do the same thing.  When confronted by a clerk, the juvenile dropped a bag and ran.  Brown then went back inside, picked up the bag, and walked out.  Brown’s boyfriend, James Delucio, also allegedly stole some items.  Both are now charged with felony theft.

VANDOR ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO NEW FACILITY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There’s a big move for Richmond’s Vandor Corporation.  Vandor is announcing the relocation of its Progress Paper Tubes division to a new location at 3800 West Industries Road.  With the additional space, Vandor said it would focus on customer growth and new product development.  Vandor already has two other locations on West Industries Road.  The move becomes effective this coming Monday.

ROYAL CANIN OPENS $450 MILLION PREBLE COUNTY FACILITY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lewisburg, OH)--The ribbon has now been cut on a huge new manufacturing facility in Preble County.  Royal Canin has now opened its new $450 million pet food company in Lewisburg.  It’s a 450,000 square-foot complex that is now the largest dry pet food facility for Royal Canin.  It is expected to create 270 new full-time jobs over the next five years and will produce enough food annually to feed four million dogs and cats.

QUAKERTOWN, WHITEWATER UNDER IDEM ADVISORIES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--You probably wouldn’t want to get in the water right now anyway with the cool temperatures.  But, there are now advisories in place for both Quakertown Beach at Brookville Lake and for the Lake at Whitewater Memorial State Park.  The advisory comes after recent measurements showed high levels of some irritants.  Swimming and boating is still permitted, but the Indiana Department of Environmental Management says you should take a shower after swimming and keep pets out of the water where algae is present.

EARLHAM RECEIVES MILLION-DOLLAR GIFT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Two Earlham College grads have given their alma mater a one-million-dollar gift that will go toward restoring the Runyan Center.  The revitalization will focus on four areas, including more outdoor spaces, a revamped courtyard, and a new outdoor deck that connects to the campus café.  The gift comes from Jeff May and Karen Crossen, who graduated in the mid 1970’s.  This is the couple’s second million-dollar gift in the last decade.

EATON'S MAIN NORTH-SOUTH THOROUGHFARE CLOSED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Eaton’s main north-south thoroughfare is closed at least for Wednesday and, probably, most of Thursday.  North Barron Street, which is also U.S. 127, is closed at the railroad tracks so that Norfolk-Southern can complete a crossing repair.  Semi traffic is being diverted to U.S. 35 and State Route 503.  It’s part of the railroad’s effort to repair nearly all crossings throughout the county.

WANTED MAN WITH VIOLENT CRIMINAL HISTORY CAPTURED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A wanted Richmond man with a violent criminal history was taken into custody late Tuesday afternoon.  RPD officers located 35-year-old Jesse Gifford in the 400 block of Hunt Street.  Gifford had failed to appear for a hearing and had an active warrant.  Back in 2018, Gifford was charged with breaking into a home on Sheridan Street and cutting a man on the back of the neck with a knife.  Other previous charges include meth possession and neglect of a dependent.

MAN ARRESTED FOR DRUG DEALING

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond drug dealer with a long criminal record was taken into custody again Monday and now faces a brand new dealing charge.  Police caught 29-year-old Tayonne Tevis yesterday afternoon at South 13^th and L Street.  The quantity and specific type of drugs recovered has not been released.  In Wayne County, Tevis has six previous felony convictions, including five for possessing heroin or cocaine.  He is also due to be sentenced on the first day of July for firing a gun into a building.

SCHOOL DISTRICT REMAINS QUIET ABOUT LEAVES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Liberty, IN)--The school year ended Friday for students in the Union County – College Corner Joint School District.  Tuesday is a work day for teachers, and there has still not been a word publically from the district about why its superintendent was placed on leave.  The district has also not even acknowledged the sanction with any type of public statement.  Last Friday, Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported that John Edge was on leave and two other high-level administrators had been noticeably absent.  Two different executive sessions were held last week.  The acting superintendent and several school board members have still not responded to messages.

HEALTH OFFICER RECOMMENDS ONE-YEAR EXTENSION OF NEEDLE EXCHANGE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bales appeared before a joint meeting of Wayne County Council and Commissioners this week.  The topic was a potential extension of what is commonly referred to as the Needle Exchange Program.  Dr. Bales recommended an extension of the program, but…"rather than a two-year renewal this time, a one-year extension is what I would propose.  The reason why I would propose that is because in June of 2026, the state will take this question on.  At that time, they will have to decide whether this moves forward statewide," Bales explained.  Less than ten Indiana counties are currently still participating in needle exchange.  A decision on a potential extension of the program is expected in the next two weeks.

PARENTS, TEACHERS QUESTION ADMINISTRATORS' ABSENCE AT UNION COUNTY SCHOOLS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Liberty, IN)--Parents and even some teachers are questioning what the situation is with the Union County College Corner School District.  Superintendent John Edge was not present at the last school board meeting.  A call to Union County schools Thursday by Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News indicated that Edge had been placed on administrative leave and that high school Principal Randy Judd was serving as acting superintendent.  Last week, an executive session was held to discuss potential misconduct.  Two other high-level administrators have also been noticeably absent.  Principal Randy Judd did not return calls from Kicks 96 News and 101.7 The Point News.  No school board member responded to messages, and there has been no acknowledgement by the school to parents or the community.

EARLHAM-DOWNTOWN CONNECTION TO INCLUDE ELECTRIC TROLLEY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Part of the Revitalize Richmond plan includes a unique mode of transportation designed to connect the Earlham campus with downtown and the Depot District.  Earlham’s Dakota Collins explained it this week to the Richmond Redevelopment Commission.  "We're looking at purchasing an electric bus, retrofitting it to look more like a trolley, and have it loop around the downtown and the Depot District but also make a stop at the campus.  This isn't just for students, but for residents and visitors alike," Collins explains.  The idea is part of a rebranding of Roseview Transit.

NOVA HOLDS OPENING CEREMONIES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--NOVA Chemicals in Connersville hosted a grand opening event as part of the commission of its first polyethylene film recycling facility on Thursday.  The ceremony marks the completion of 22 months of planning and construction.  The operation, which is located at the former Visteon plant, is expected to support 125 jobs.  Indiana Governor Mike Braun on Thursday called NOVA a great asset to the Connersville community.

COUNTY DISCUSSES COLLARBORATION WITH CITY FOR OPIOID SETTLEMENT EXPENDITURES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Commissioners want to collaborate with the City of Richmond in the spending of opioid settlement money.  "According to the AG report, the City of Richmond has not spent any of their money since Day 1," said Commissioner Brad Dwenger Wednesday.  Different Wayne County communities received different settlement amounts.  Dwenger talked about the impact of working together:  "I just think it makes sense.  Instead of having $300,000, we have $1.3 million or whatever the number is."  There is no deadline for an entity to spend its settlement dollars.

NEW USE PURSUED FOR BUILDINGS AT 10th AND MAIN

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Plans are advancing for a new use for a part of East Main Street in Richmond.  The buildings that once were home to Kessler’s, BSN, and another retail store at 10^th and East Main have been purchased and are being converted into what’s called a Makerspace.  "They've purchased both of those spaces with the intent of putting a makerspace in the basement first and, maybe, part of the second floor," said Dakota Collins in talking about the new owner and his wife.  It’s part of the Revitalize Richmond project.  Some of the activities expected to take place include working with electronics, 3D printing, and robotics.

ACCUSED MURDERER, IN U.S. ILLEGALLY, CAPTURED IN PREBLE COUNTY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Camden, OH)--A man who is not only in the country illegally but who was also wanted for murder was captured in Preble County Wednesday.  The murder occurred Sunday in Columbus.  U.S. Marshals found the 26-year-old man leaving a business in Camden Wednesday afternoon with new clothes.  He was apprehended and taken to the Preble County Jail.  He had fled Columbus after the murder, but there’s no word on why he ended up in Camden.

FINISHING TOUCHES TO BE PUT ON DEPOT OVERPASS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Even though the bridge over Richmond’s Depot District has been open to traffic since January, the work is not quite complete.  Now, crews are set to put on the finishing touches.  The city announced yesterday that, beginning next week, workers will be doing beam painting and concrete staining on the overpass.  No street closures are expected, but there could be flagging on North E Street and Elm Place.  It should take up to two weeks to complete.

CONSTRUCTION SET TO BEGIN AT ELDER-BEERMAN SITE AS FUNDING QUESTIONS LINGER

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It’s been a while now since demolition of the former Elder-Beerman building in downtown Richmond was complete.  There was an update on where the conversion of that space into an apartment complex stands now at Tuesday’s meeting of the Richmond Redevelopment Commission.  Here’s Beth Fields with the city:  "At this point, the developer, Flaherty & Collins, was waiting on the closure of their redevelopment tax credits with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation before moving forward."  Now, though, developers are pushing forward with some work set to begin on June 2.  But, there’s a potential complication.  "If, for some reason, the IEDC chooses not to move forward on the redevelopment tax credits, that creates a four-million-dollar gap which jeopardizes the project," Fields explained.  Construction trailers are set to arrive next week.

COUNCIL MEMBER'S COMPLAINT AGAINST SHIPMAN DISMISSED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Indianapolis, IN)--Aside from the lawsuit filed by Adam Blanton of the Richmond Police Department against Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman over Blanton’s placement on the Brady List last year, Blanton had filed a formal complaint with the Indiana Supreme Court’s Disciplinary Commission.  That complaint was ultimately dismissed.  But Blanton isn’t the only one to file a complaint.  Richmond Common Council member Anne Taylor, who is married to RPD Chief Kyle Weatherly, also filed a complaint with the commission earlier this year.  Now, that complaint has been dismissed also.  In a recent letter to Shipman, the commission said that Taylor’s complaint "does not raise a substantial question of misconduct."  Blanton’s lawsuit, which was joined by the city, continues to work its way through the court system.

DOWNTOWN U.S. BANK BUILDING TAGGED FOR PENTHOUSE APARTMENT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Local leaders are working to find new life for the U.S. Bank building at the corner of 8^th and Main in downtown Richmond.  A grant is being sought to help with funding a renovation.  Part of that grant requires the building to have at least some living space.  Roxie Deer explained what that could look like on Tuesday.  "We imagine this apartment - this living unit - will be about 3000 square feet and will be kind of the high-end penthouse that we all would love to see in our downtown area," Deer explained.  Construction and renovation is expected to begin in about two months.

FINANCE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE WCTV FUNDING

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The future of WCTV was discussed when Richmond Common Council met Monday night.  The local community access station is in jeopardy after the contract with IU East was terminated.  The station is required to hold a cash balance equal to 1/6 of its annual budget.  "Failure to do so terminates that contract on request," said Arte Libunao, the IU East Vice Chancellor of Finance.  WCTV Board member Ken Paust told council what the station is facing.  "What's happened over a period of years is that the amount of money that WCTV has had to function and operate has shrunk every year and is continuing to shrink," Paust said.  Council on Monday night sent the issue to the Finance Committee to see if the city’s contribution to the station can be modified to help sustain WCTV in some form long-term.

AUDITOR'S CRIMINAL CASE RESOLVED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Auditor Mark Hoelscher said Monday that the criminal case against him has been resolved.  Hoelscher had faced two counts of misdemeanor intimidation after allegedly placing threatening messages in the mailboxes of his Esteb Road neighbors.  Hoelscher told Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News Monday that his attorney is putting the final touches on a pre-trial diversion program that would have Hoelscher pay $334 in court costs.  If he is not charged with any other crimes within a six-month period, the intimidation charges would be dropped.  Now that the criminal case against Wayne County Auditor Mark Hoelscher has been resolved, Hoelscher is making a demand of his neighbor.  Hoelscher said Monday that it stems from a dispute he had with a neighbor near his home on Esteb Road over a fireworks business the neighbor wanted to operate.  Hoelscher said Monday that the resident claims to have photos of Hoelscher trespassing on his property.  Now, Hoelcher said a summons is in place demanding the neighbor produce the photos by the end of the month.  Zoning was ultimately denied for the fireworks business.

WORKER HURT IN FALL FROM BRIDGE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--There was a serious injury at the bridge reconstruction project on State Road 227 between Richmond and Boston Monday afternoon.  The bridge over the railroad tracks is being demolished and rebuilt.  According to scanner traffic, one person was who was working on the bridge was knocked off and fell about 25 feet.  A medical helicopter was requested.  There was no word Tuesday morning on the person’s identity or condition.

RICHMOND PHILANTROPIST DIES AS RESULT OF KENTUCKY STORMS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Russell County, KY)--An elderly Richmond woman has died as the result of the storms that swept through southern Kentucky over the weekend.  According to the Russell County Coroner’s Office, 93-year-old Debra Edelman had lost power on a houseboat on Lake Cumberland and went to a nearby resident for help turning on a generator.  Later, Edelman found unresponsive.  The preliminary finding is that Edelman died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.  Edelman was a well-known philanthropist in Richmond.  She and her late husband, Jack, had donated more than two million dollars to the Reid Health Foundation.  She had also donated to Ivy Tech, Richmond Community Schools, and the Richmond Police Department.

WCTV BOARD TO ADDRESS COMMON COUNCIL

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council meets Monday night.  Monday night’s agenda includes a report from the WCTV Board of Directors.  WCTV is facing an uncertain future after its entire staff was notified recently that their employment would be terminated either immediately or within 30 days.  Since then, several local entities – including the city of Richmond – have sought solutions so that WCTV can continue to stream community governmental meetings and other events across Wayne County.  Monday night’s meeting begins at 7.

ARBORETUM SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Hayes Arboretum is looking to lay out its plans for the next 15 years.  On the home page of its website, the arboretum has a survey that includes questions about how and how often visitors used the complex.  An open-house-style discussion has also been set for this Wednesday afternoon to share ideas.  That event will be hosted by a central Indiana architect and urban planning firm.  20 years ago, the arboretum, in a very controversial move, sold several acres of land along National Road East for a retail development that now includes Menard’s, Kohl’s, and Dick’s Sporting Goods to raise capital for extended operations.

RESULTS OF LOCAL BUSINESS SURVEY RELEASED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Results from a survey done by the IU East Business and Economic Research Center have been released.  The surveys were sent to more than a thousand business owners and operators in multiple counties across the Whitewater Valley.  The overwhelming majority – about 82% - of the 113 businesses that responded said they have either maintained or grown their employment levels in the last year.  The largest concern of respondents was lack of support and higher cost of living.  You can find a link to the full report on the IU East Facebook page.

WOMAN FACES DRUG CHARGES AFTER FRIDAY MORNING TRAFFIC STOP

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A traffic stop in the 300 block of South 12^th in Richmond at just after midnight Friday morning turned up various types of drugs.  27-year-old Joshua Lanning and 35-year-old Amber Walker were both taken to jail after officers  allegedly found undisclosed quantities of cocaine and meth as well as a handgun with altered identification.  Walker accepted all the drug charges and now faces three felonies.  Lanning was charged only with driving without a license and has already been released from jail.

BOIL ADVISORY APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN LIFTED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It appears that the water boil advisory that affected much of Richmond’s west side Thursday has been lifted, although Indiana American Water is not specifically confirming that.  The warning message that appeared on the website Thursday was gone Friday morning, but there was also no follow-up message that the advisory was lifted.  Thursday morning at around 11, Indiana American said the advisory could be in place for 24 hours.  The advisory was prompted by a water main break that occurred near Salisbury Road and National Road West.

DEMOLITION PAVES WAY FOR CHICK FIL A

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--On Tuesday, the former Steak n Shake building at the corner of National Road East and West Eaton Pike in Richmond came down to make way for a new Chick-fil-A.  The construction process was delayed by about two months because of a holdup with the transfer of about 1/5 of an acre of land on the southern portion of the property that was still owned by Lowes and was needed by Chick-fil-A for its new parking lot.  With the Steak n Shake building gone, construction is expected to begin shortly.  Chick-fil-A has not released a revised projected opening date.

COUPLE CHARGED WITH TWO COUNTS OF ANIMAL CRUELTY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Boston, IN)--A Boston couple was jailed Wednesday on a total of ten counts of cruelty to an animal.  Both Robert Banks Junior and Kristina Sinnett turned themselves in on warrants Wednesday at the Wayne County Jail and then quickly bonded out.  Details of what they are alleged to have done to the animals have not been released.  Online court documents indicate the couple failed to show up for a court hearing last month.  They have a pending foreclosure on their home on Salem Street in Boston.

RANDOLPH COUNTY MAN ACCUSED OF SERIOUSLY INJURING TWO-MONTH-OLD DAUGHTER

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union City, IN)--Neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury is the charge a Randolph County man now faces in connection to severe injuries suffered by his two-month-old daughter.  27-year-old Brandon Gibson of Union City initially told investigators that the baby had fallen and hit her head in the bathtub.  When told that story was inconsistent with what doctors found, Gibson said he forcefully put the baby down on a changing table.  He now faces up to 40 years in prison.  The baby went to Dayton Children’s with a broken leg and fluid on her brain.  There is no update on her condition.

EDC HIGHLIGHTS 2024 INVESTMENTS BY LOCAL COMPANIES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County’s EDC, as part of its annual report, has highlighted three local companies that made significant investment into the area last year.  Those three companies alone invested nearly $68 million and created 118 new jobs.  Those three are Richmond Beverage Solutions, Vandor, and Transcendia.  Two-thirds of that total investment came from Richmond Beverage Solutions, which added new equipment to modernize its manufacturing process.

HEALTH BOARD RECOMMENDS EXTENSION OF NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County’s syringe exchange program was addressed when the county’s health board met Tuesday.  That program began in 2016 and provides drug users with clean syringes in exchange for used ones.  It started as a way to combat hepatitis C.  At that time, Wayne County had one of the highest per capita rates in Indiana.  Now, those rates have trended downward but are still above state average.  Health officer Jennifer Bales said that she thinks the program has shown some success, but added this:  "If we continue this program, there are some changes that I would like to make that we would need to address together."  The Health Board on Tuesday recommended extending the program for another two years.  The issue now goes to Wayne County Commissioners for a final determination.

WEAK TORNADO TOUCHES DOWN IN RANDOLPH COUNTY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Randolph County, IN)--A tornado touched down in Randolph County on Tuesday…sort of.  The National Weather Service has already confirmed that what was classified as an EF-U landspout tornado touched down along State Road 32 near State Road 1 just west of Winchester Tuesday afternoon.  A landspout tornado is not formed from a rotating updraft like most tornados.  They are generally weak and are not on the ground for long.  No injuries or serious damage was reported.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE REFUTES ALLEGATIONS FROM LAST YEAR

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(West Alexandria, OH)--Ohio State Representative Rodney Creech, who lives in West Alexandria, is calling allegations that he had inappropriate contact with a minor teenage female purely political in nature.  The allegations are not new; a prosecutor outside of Preble County investigated the allegations last fall and chose not to bring charges against Creech.  The investigator did, though, call the allegations "concerning and suspicious."  The allegations resurfaced recently after Creech announced that he would be a candidate for the Ohio Senate next year.

RCS BOARD TO DISCUSS COLLABORATION WITH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--When the Richmond Community School Board meets Wednesday, it will address an agreement between the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, all five public school systems in Wayne County, and Seton.  The agreement would have the Chamber hire someone with the title of Director of Employer Engagement.  That person’s job will be to facilitate the placement of Wayne County students with area businesses to satisfy work-based learning requirements.  This year’s eighth-graders will be the first class subjected to new state graduation requirements.

GUILFOYLE SENTENCED TO 100 YEARS; BODY CAM VIDEO RELEASED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--The Franklin County man who shot his wife and a deputy was sentenced Monday to one hundred years in prison.  Gregory Guilfoyle had previously been found guilty but mentally ill as a result of the incident that took place in December of 2022.  He received 38 years for each of two counts of attempted murder, while the rest of the hundred years was for six other counts, including neglect of a dependent.  His wife was seriously hurt, but survived.  The deputy was struck in his protective vest and was not seriously injured.  After Guilfoyle was sentenced, body cam video of the incident was released.  It shows Guilfoyle holding his young daughter in his arms while walking along a snowy highway.  He opened fire on the deputy from only five feet away.  Incredibly, the deputy was struck only in the protective vest.  Miraculously, the deputy was able to return fire, miss the young girl entirely, and hit Guilfoyle.  After the shots, the deputy immediately grabbed the young girl.  She was not hurt.

TREE INVENTORY TO BE FUNDED BY DNR

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s more on the tree inventory program throughout the city of Richmond that Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported Monday morning.  Last week, Richmond’s park board entered into a $118,000 contract to create an inventory and database of more than 12,000 trees across the city.  Park Superintendent Denise Retz said Monday that the money is not coming from the city coffers.  It is a grant from the Department of Natural Resources that can only be used for that purpose.

BRIDGE WORK BEGINS AS PART OF REVIVE I-70

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Work on the first of numerous bridges that will need to be reconfigured and widened as part of the Revive I-70 project is beginning this week.  Crews this week are beginning to install new beams over Clear Creek near Salisbury Road.  Overnight lane closures and rolling slowdowns will this week.  A total of 21 bridges will need to be worked in just the first phase of the project, which stretches from the state line to just west of U.S. 35.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR BATTERING CHILD UNDER AGE 14

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Greens Fork, IN)--A Greens Fork woman was taken into custody late Monday afternoon after an incident on Manning Road.  34-year-old Nisa Bryant was charged with battering a child under the age of 14 and with strangulation.  There’s no word on what led to the incident or the condition of the alleged victim.  Bryant has a history that includes an arrest for battery against a public safety official and felony intimidation.

WCTV "NARROWING SCOPE OF WORK" AS SOLUTIONS SOUGHT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--WCTV has served Wayne County by providing coverage of governmental meetings and community events since 1988.  Last week, Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported that the public television station’s future was in serious jeopardy after the immediate termination of all part-time staffers and a 30-day notice to full-timers.  Director Eric Marsh touched on the future at the end of the last IN Focus program.  "We are taking a hiatus from IN Focus as we are from some of our other programs.  We are narrowing the scope of the work that we are able to do for the community in hopes that we can begin to figure out what our model needs to look like - how much we can actually be able to do," Marsh said.  City and county leaders are actively working to find a solution.

NEW PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT VANDALIZED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--It’s not even been a month since brand new playground equipment was installed at Creitz Park in Cambridge City, and it’s already been damaged by vandals.  Police over the weekend asked for the help of the public in identifying whoever damaged it by scratching it and spraying it with graffiti.  The new playground opened on April 17 with the help of donations from area residents and organizations and a matching state grant.

HEARING DATE SET FOR BLANTON/CITY vs. SHIPMAN LAWSUIT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Two dates have now been set to determine whether or not the lawsuit filed by Adam Blanton of the Richmond Police Department, which was later joined by the City of Richmond against Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman, will go forward.  Blanton was place on what is commonly referred to as the Brady List by Shipman last year after Blanton made a false statement about a double murder case.  Shipman in March filed a motion to dismiss the case.  Now, according to online court documents, a hearing will take place on June 1 in Henry Circuit Court with special judge Bob Witham presiding.  A subsequent date of June 13 has also been set.   The city is using a private legal firm and has already spent in excess of $40,000 on legal fees.

CITY ENTERS INTO $118,000 CONTRACT TO INVENTORY TREES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Parks Board has entered into a contract with a private group to have every public tree in the city inventoried and entered into a database.  Here’s a park department employee talking more about what the contract provides:  "...a comprehensive GIS-enabled inventory of every public tree on city-maintained property including right-of-way trees, municipal facilities, and maintained areas of our parks system."  The program is initially expected to include more than 12,000 trees.  The contract is for a little more than $118,000 and will be in effect for three years.

MAN RELEASED AFTER ARREST FOR POINTING FIREARM

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man bonded out of jail Sunday night after having been arrested for pointing a firearm and intimidation with a deadly weapon.  Details of exactly what led to his arrest have not been released.  He was taken into custody on Friday on U.S. 27 near Union Pike between Richmond and Fountain City.  30-year-old Angel Nunez has had six different meth-related convictions, although he was found not guilty in a drug-dealing case in March.

UNION SCHOOL CORPORATION SUES GOVERNOR

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Modoc, IN)--The Union School Corporation in Modoc is suing Indiana Governor Mike Braun and the state’s secretary of education.  The lawsuit was filed Thursday and alleges that the Indiana constitution was violated in at least six ways when a bill passed that would dissolve the school corporation on the first day of July in 2027.  The lawsuit also alleges that the impact will be felt soon.  Union attorneys say the school district won’t have any teachers beginning in the coming school year because it cannot engage in collective bargaining under part of the new law.  The lawsuit also claims that the district will be unable to contract with the Randolph County Sheriff for its school resource officers.

GUN FOUND IN BACKPACK AT McDONALD'S

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A gun was found in the backpack of someone at a Richmond McDonald’s late Thursday afternoon.  Officers were called to the McDonald’s at 18^th and East Main and encountered 20-year-old Skyler Cottongim.  Cottongim had an active warrant for the theft of a motor vehicle.  He was charged Thursday with being a felon in possession of a handgun.  This marks criminal case #6 in Cottongim’s two years as an adult, including one just this past Monday.  Thursday was also a day full of domestic violence.  In different incidents across Wayne County, there were five different domestic battery arrests, including three different strangulations.

LIBERATION LABS LANDS FIRST CUSTOMER

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Liberation Labs has announced that it has landed its first customer at its biomanufacturing plant that is currently under construction at the Midwest Industrial Park in Richmond.  Vivici is a Dutch ingredients startup whose dairy protein can be used in protein drinks and powders.  The new facility is now in the late stage of construction and is expected to begin production at some point next year.  Ground was broken for the new plant almost two years ago.

EARLHAM GRAD, NASA PIONEER TO GET HONORARY DOCTORATE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A special honorary doctorate will be awarded during Earlham College’s commencement a week from Saturday.  Margaret Hamilton played a critical role with NASA in the race to reach the moon.  She graduated from Earlham in 1958.  Hamilton is unable to travel to Richmond and will not be attending the commencement.

SEARA BURTON K9 TRIALS SET FOR SATURDAY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There’s a big event on tap Saturday at the Wayne County Fairgrounds.  It’s the second annual Seara Burton K9 Legacy Trials.  It’s named for the Richmond Police Department’s K9 officer who died after being shot while making an arrest two and a half years ago.  Saturday’s event will bring police canines and their handlers to Richmond from across the region for a series of competitions and demonstrations.  The event is open to the public.

ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE RETURNS TO VACATED MEDICAL FACILITY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Indiana State Attorney General’s Office was back in Richmond Wednesday to collect more patient medical records that had been abandoned from the office of a Richmond physician.  Dr. Vishwajit Brahmbhatt, who is generally referred to as Dr. Vish, had operated a pain management clinic in space he leased on the west side of Chester Boulevard at North J Street.  The removal of items from that office began last week.  Also yesterday, the Wayne County Health Department removed hundreds of used syringes that had been left behind when the office was vacated earlier this year.  The investigation is continuing.

STUDY: 450 HOUSING UNITS PER YEAR NEEDED OVER NEXT FIVE YEARS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--There was discussion about Richmond and Wayne County’s housing situation when the County Council’s Finance Committee met Wednesday.  Even though there are several large projects in the pipeline including the Smith Hill development and the apartments at the former Elder-Beerman site, Commissioner Jeff Plasterer explained that there is a need for more.  "The most recent housing study showed that we have a need for about 450 housing units per year to be constructed over the next five years.  We're nowhere near that total number," Plasterer said.  The discussion came as Council moved $150,000 into the Housing Accelerator program.

WERNLE TO CONTINUE AS FOUNDATION

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s more on the acquisition of the Wernle Youth and Family Services facility by a central Indiana organization called Damar that Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported last week.  The acquisition does not mean the end of Wernle entirely.  Wernle will continue to operate as a foundation in a new office with the primary goal of providing financial support to area non-profits.  Damar plans on conducting hiring fairs in the summer with the goal hiring 150 people for an opening in the fall.

LOCAL OLYMPIC MEDALIST ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(New Madison, OH)--A local Olympian on Wednesday announced that he is retiring after more than a decade on the global stage.  Clayton Murphy had numerous worldwide wins in track and field.  The Darke County native and Tri Village High School graduate took to social media Wednesday to thank everyone who had helped him along the way.  Murphy won a bronze medal at the Olympics in Rio in 2016.

NO INDICATIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FROM SEMI CRASH

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There has been no information from any public agency indicating any environmental effects from the semi crash that closed I-70 Tuesday morning.  INDOT did confirm Tuesday that diesel fuel was spilled in a low-lying area with water between Chester Boulevard and Union Pike when the semi went off the road and down an embankment late Monday night.  Westbound I-70 finally reopened at around 10 o’clock Tuesday morning, ending what turned out to be a closure of more than ten hours.  There was still no word Wednesday morning on the identity or condition of the driver or what caused the crash.

RPD LOOKS TO IDENTIFY PERSON OF INTEREST

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Social media has become a great tool for investigators looking to solve crimes, and the Richmond Police Department is turning to that platform to help identify a person of interest.  Two images of a person of interest appeared on the RPD Facebook page Wednesday morning.  Details of why the identity of the person is being sought have not been released.

RAILROAD CROSSINGS TO BE CLOSED FOR IMPROVEMENTS

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Preble County, OH)--Railroad crossings across Preble County are getting an upgrade, including in the city of Eaton.  Norfolk Southern is replacing the rails at crossings in a project that is just getting underway and is expected to take about a month to complete.  The project will result in road closures when each crossing is addressed.  Specific closure dates for busier roads, including North Barron Street, have not been set.

OFFICIALS MEET WITH FUTURE OF WCTV IN LIMBO

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Local officials are working quickly to solidify the future of WCTV.  Late last week, all part-time employees were immediately laid off and the remaining full-time employees were notified that they had 30 days remaining.  WCTV is community-access television that operates from the campus of IU East.  Richmond Mayor Ron Oler hosted a meeting Monday to try to come up with a plan.  "I convened a meeting today between the county, IU East, and the WCTV Board to discuss it's future.  All I can say right now is 'more to come.'  For the rest of this month, we're covered.  We'll figure out next month going forward," Oler said.  WCTV covers a wide variety of community events, including video of city, town, and county council meetings across Wayne County.  The shake-up comes just a few months before a new requirement in Indiana that all meetings of governmental entities be livestreamed and archived.

SEMI CRASHES SHUT DOWN WESTBOUND I-70

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Westbound I-70 was shut down throughout the overnight hours Monday night and Tuesday morning after a semi crash.  It happened at 11:30 Monday night near the Seara Burton overpass on Chester Boulevard.  The semi left the roadway, went down an embankment, and ended up in a branch of the Whitewater River.  The driver had to be extricated from the wreckage.  Westbound interstate traffic earliy Tuesday morning was being diverted onto State Road 227, which caused several Richmond Streets to be clogged with semi traffic.  There’s no word yet on the condition of the driver or what led to the crash.  It happened in the Revive I-70 construction zone.

DRIVER TO APPEAR AT WARM GLOW CANDLES

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--A big name in auto racing will be in Centerville Wednesday.  Race driver Conor Daly will be coming to the Warm Glow Candle Outlet to meet fans and autograph items between 2:30 and 3:30 Wednesday afternoon.  Warm Glow owner Justin Burkhardt contacted Daly after learning Daly loves candles.  Before he appears at the retail store, Daly will help with candle production at the plant on Water Street.  His car will also be sporting a Warm Glow logo for the race at the end of the month.

EATON BUSINESSMAN SENTENCED

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Eaton businessman Ernest Hatmaker was sentenced Monday.  Hatmaker received probation and a one-thousand-dollar fine after pleading guilty to possessing criminal tools.  But, he had originally been charged with six counts related to child porn.  Hatmaker addressed the judge Monday.  "I'd like to thank the court for all of its time and energy," he said.  A prosecutor issued a statement Monday saying they are sometimes hampered by the rules of evidence and witness cooperation.

RP&L CONSIDERS IMPLEMENTING PRE-PAY PROGRAM

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Power & Light is considering a program that would allow residential customers to pre-pay their electric bills.  RP&L General Manager Tony Foster explained it to the RP&L Board Monday night:  "It's just like a pre-paid cell phone plan except that you're buying your power in advance.  When you get close to running out of that pre-paid power, you would get a notification on your cell phone or an e-mail."  Foster said that they’ll be studying other communities already using a pre-pay system before offering it in Richmond.

I-70 ONRAMP CLOSES FOR MORE THAN A YEAR

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The closure of an onramp to I-70 that had been delayed is now in effect.  INDOT has now closed the ramp from southbound U.S. 35 onto eastbound I-70.  And, they say that closure will remain in effect for more than a year.  It was made necessary because construction with the Revive I-70 project made the merging area of the onramp too tight.  INDOT has also indicated that the entire 35 – I-70 interchange will be eventually changed into what they describe as a roundabout.

CITY OFFERS VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT THROUGH ONLINE AUCTION

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The city of Richmond is holding an online auction.  It’s being conducted by the website publicsurplus.com.  Vehicles, tools, and other equipment appear in the list of items up for bid.  There is a wide range of prices.  The current going rate for a small street sweeper is $2550.  And, you can pick up a Beast scooter in really bad shape for a current price of $12.07.  You can find a link to the auction on the city’s Facebook page.

MORGAN'S CANOE SELLS; OPERATIONS TO CONTINUE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--A long-time Whitewater River canoeing company has sold, and the new owners say that the operations that draw thousands each summer will continue.  The sale of Morgan’s Canoe & Outdoor Adventures in Brookville closed late last week.  The new owners are Brogan and Chelsea Orcutt.  The Brookville location has been in operation for more than half a century.  It was listed for sale back in January.  Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

ORGANIZATION ACQUIRES WERNLE; OPERATIONS TO BEGIN IN THE FALL

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A company called Damar has announced that it has acquired the former Wernle Youth & Family Treatment Center in Richmond and has plans to open a new campus this fall.  According to its website, Damar has been helping children and adults with autism and other developmental, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities.  They say that they plan to open sometime this fall and will transform the Wernle property into a hub for residential, outpatient, and commity-based services.  Future offerings may include a new charter school.  Damar is based in central Indiana and has been in existence since 1967.  Wernle’s residential service ended early last year after a series of sanctions from the state based on operational concerns.

RHS GRAD TO APPEAR ON NAKED & AFRAID THIS SUNDAY

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--If you’re a fan of the TV show Naked & Afraid, you might see a familiar face when this Sunday’s episode airs.  Danni Kelly, who is a 2010 Richmond High School graduate, will be one of the featured survivalists.  If you’re unaware of the program, people are stripped entirely of their clothes and left to survive for weeks in very remote areas across the world.  The episode airs Sunday night on the Discovery Channel.

SHIPMAN FILES RESPONSE TO CITY'S RESPONSE TO BRADY LIST LAWSUIT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman has filed a response to the City of Richmond’s response to Shipman’s original motion to dismiss the lawsuit he faces over the placement last year of Adam Blanton on what’s commonly referred to as the Brady List.  The new response, filed this week, essentially reiterates one of Shipman’s original points of contention…which is that prosecutorial immunity exists when officers are placed on the Brady List.  The new motion once again asks for dismissal of the case with full prejudice.  No future hearing dates appear in online court records.

CHANGES APPROVED FOR ROSEVIEW TRANSIT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s Board of Public Works approved requested changes to Roseview Transit Thursday after a fairly lengthy discussion.  The primary change would eliminate transfer tickets and, instead, charge riders to pay one dollar each time they board the bus.  "If you pay an individual fare each time they go to a transfer, you're going to have better data for your grants," said Board President Jamie Lopeman. Roseview has about 450 riders each day.  The change is expected to go into effect in less than a month.

INVESTIGATORS REMOVE ITEMS FROM RICHMOND PHYSICIAN'S ABANDONED OFFICE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Both the Indiana State Board of Pharmacy and the Indiana State Attorney General’s Office were in Richmond Wednesday to begin an investigation and recover abandoned items after a Richmond doctor vacated his medical office earlier this year.  Dr. Vishwajit Brahmbhatt, who is generally referred to as Dr. Vish, had operated a pain management clinic in space he leased on the west side of Chester Boulevard at North J Street.  After his lease expired at the end of February, the building’s owner found numerous items that had been left behind.  Those items include stacks of blank Reid Health prescription pads, viles full of medication including lidocaine, a signature stamp, and patient records.  The State Board of Pharmacy came Wednesday to take the prescription pads.  The State Attorney General’s office was also in the building to examine other items.  Reid Health issued a statement Wednesday indicating the Dr. Vish was not a Reid employee while leasing the property and that the property was not owned, managed, or operated by Reid.  The investigation is expected to take several weeks.

FIRE BREAKS OUT IN EATON HOME

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Crews were battling a house fire in Eaton Thursday morning.  It broke out at around 2:40 Thursday morning at a home in the 100 block of Vine Street.  On its social media page, the Eaton Fire Department asked people to avoid the area.  Initial scanner traffic indicated there was heavy smoke and flames showing when firefighters arrived.  There is no word yet on whether or not anyone was in the house.

ALLEGED DINE-AND-DASHER JAILED FOR BATTERING POLICE

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--What started as a dine-and-dash Wednesday night turned into something much more.  42-year-old Candace Galan-Calderon allegedly ate at Richmond’s Texas Roadhouse and then ran out without paying.  When she was confronted by officers near Chili’s, she allegedly went on the offensive.  Galan-Calderon is now faces two felony battery charges, including battery against a public safety official engaged in official business.  This is her third arrest in the last 30 days.

BOARD OF WORKS TO CONSIDER CHANGES TO ROSE VIEW TRANSIT

Posted About One Year Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s Board of Public Works meets Thursday afternoon and will address a resolution that would make a couple of changes at Rose View Transit.  The use of transfer tickets would be discontinued.  A bus fare will now be charged – regardless of the destination – each time a bus is boarded.  Also the fare amount would be reduced and standardized to one dollar per passenger per trip.  The goal is to have those changes go into effect this coming Monday.