FACILITY SUED AFTER DISABLED TEEN'S DEATH

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(New Paris, OH)--A lawsuit has been filed as the result of the death of a 16-year-old boy who was in the care of a residential facility just outside of New Paris.  Jordan Shinn had lived at the Foundations Intermediate Care since he was seven years old due to disabilities that included cerebral palsy, epiliepsy, and other developmental conditions.  An autopsy determined he died from the effects of fentanyl and a veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use.  The lawsuit primarily alleges employees with known histories of drug use failed to provide proper supervision and left belongings accessible to residents.  The lawsuit seeks punitive damages.

MAN JAILED AFTER EARLY-MORNING CHASE

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A chase Thursday morning through downtown Richmond had a strange conclusion.  60-year-old Alvis Jarvis allegedly fled a traffic stop at North 15^th and E at 1 o’clock Thursday morning.  Police found the car on South 12^th, but Jarvis was nowhere to be found.  A couple of hours later, Jarvis called dispatchers to say that his car had been stolen.  He was taken into custody on North West C.  He’s charged with resisting causing bodily injury.

SHIPMAN CALLS FOR BLANTON, WEATHERLY, AND OLER TO REPAY TAXPAYERS

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman issued a short but strong statement Tuesday after a lawsuit against him was dismissed by a special judge on Monday.  The Richmond Police Department’s Adam Blanton and the City had sued Shipman last year after Blanton’s placement by Shipman on the Brady List.  Here is Shipman’s statement verbatim and in its entirety:  "The lawsuit was frivolous.  Assistant Chief Adam Blanton, Chief Kyle Weatherly, and Mayor Ron Oler paid Indianapolis attorneys over $100,000 of Richmond taxpayer money only to lose the case.  They should personally reimburse taxpayers and apologize for this wasteful spending."  No public statements have been made by city administrators regarding the dismissal.

CEREMONY KICKS OFF AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Phase One of the construction project to bring a new terminal to the Richmond Municipal Airport kicked off Tuesday.  Congressman Jefferson Shreve was on hand to recognize a quarter-of-a-million-dollar grant from the FAA.  That funding will cover architectural and engineering designs, site preparation, and environmental assessments.  Mayor Ron Oler recently said that a modern airport terminal is vital for economic development.

PREBLE COUNTY MAN GETS 10-15 YEARS FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--A Preble County man has been sentenced to between ten and 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted murder.  Last August, 46-year-old David Daniels stabbed his long-time girlfriend multiple times in the neck and upper chest area with a large knife at their home near Gratis.  She survived the attack and has since made a full recovery.  Daniels had admitted to investigators that he wanted to kill her.  He pled guilty to attempted murder without a plea agreement.  Daniels has seven domestic violence convictions and has been sent to prison nine times.  This makes number ten.

13 JAILED IN LARGE DRUG SWEEP

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--There was a massive drug bust in Darke County Tuesday morning.  After seven months of undercover investigation, deputies executed arrest warrants connected to illicit drug trafficking.  24 indictments were recently handed down by a grand jury.  13 of those people were taken into custody Tuesday, and more arrests will be made in the coming days.

MILKHOUSE BURGLARS IDENTIFIED, ARRESTED

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Milkhouse burglars have been caught.  Last week, the Richmond Police Department issued photos and asked for the help of the public in identifying two males who broke into the west-side Milkhouse.  Tuesday, RPD said that both of the suspects are juveniles and that both face felony burglary charges.  RPD Chief Kyle Weatherly said Tuesday that they said they would find them, and they meant it.

JUDGE DISMISSES BLANTON, CITY'S LAWSUIT AGAINST SHIPMAN

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A judge has dismissed the lawsuit filed by Richmond Police Department Assistant Chief Adam Blanton and the City of Richmond against Wayne County Prosecutor Mike Shipman.  The lawsuit was based on Blanton’s placement on the Brady List last year as a result of inaccurate public statements made by Blanton.  The primary inaccuracy claimed that a murder victim was not a confidential informant when, in fact, that person was an informant.  In the complaint, Blanton did not deny his statements were inaccurate but said that they were "minor inaccuracies."  In his decision, which was filed Monday, Special Judge Bob Witham wrote that Shipman’s placement of Blanton on the Brady List "falls squarely within the execution of the duties of his office" and that absolute immunity shields Shipman.  The city has spent in excess of $100,000 in legal fees since joining the lawsuit which, again, has now been dismissed.

INTERSECTION REOPENS WITH WARNING FROM FIRST RESPONDERS

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--Centerville’s main intersection has reopened after being closed for a couple of weeks for a stoplight reconfiguration.  That reconfiguration has brought significant change and a word of caution from Centerville Fire and Rescue.  The stoplight at the intersection of Main Street – or U.S. 40 – and Morton Avenue no longer has a traffic signal suspended above the middle of the intersection.  Now, the stop lights are on the corners at street level.  They’re asking for caution at the intersection until drivers get used to the change.

CAR CRASHES INTO DOLLAR GENERAL

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A car struck the Dollar General store on National Road West in Richmond Monday afternoon.  The impact knocked a cooler inside across an aisle.  No one inside was hurt.  The driver’s husband said after the incident that she put her foot on the gas instead of the brake.  The building sustained moderate structural damage.  The driver was not seriously hurt.

RAILINGS BEING INSTALLED ON G STREET BRIDGE

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There are a couple of new traffic notes.  One of the locations impacted by construction is Richmond’s G Street Bridge.  Temporary lane restrictions this week and next will allow crews to install pedestrian railings.  Also, the exit from westbound I-70 to westbound U.S. 40 at the state line is now closed as part of Revive I-70.  The exit from eastbound 70 onto westbound 40 will also be closed this week, but only during nighttime hours.

FEWER WAYNE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES GO TO COLLEGE

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Some state leaders questioned Monday how a declining percentage of high school graduates going to college will affect the labor market.  Those opinions differed, especially with a shortage of people working trade jobs like plumbing and HVAC.  State numbers show that Wayne County also has a steadily declining percentage of students going on to college.  In 2010, 69% of Wayne County graduates took at least some college courses.  By 2020, it had dropped to 56%.  Now, it’s down to 49%.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER AFTER SHOT FIRED AT GAS STATION

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond resident was in the Wayne County Jail Monday morning after shots were fired at a gas station.  It happened at around 6:45 Sunday night at the Hoosier Pete station at 16^th and East Main.  36-year-old Misty Wooten was taken into custody there and is now charged with attempted murder and criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon.  The initial report was that Wooten fired at least one shot toward a man’s stomach, but did not hit him.   No motive for the shooting has been released, and the relationship between Wooten and the alleged intended victim – if there is any – has also not been detailed.  Wooten has a lengthy criminal record that includes at least eight different cases in the last six years.  She was being held Monday morning on a $75,000 bond.

NO REASON GIVEN FOR WRIGHT RESIGNATION

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Community Schools released a statement on Friday acknowledging the resignation of RHS boys basketball coach Billy Wright.  The statement did not provide a reason for the resignation; it only wished him well in future endeavors.  The resignation came less than 24 hours after the most recent School Board meeting, which was last Wednesday night.  That meeting included discussion of athletic renovations.  Wright told his team on Thursday that he would be stepping down.  RCS made the announcement a day later and said that a search would begin immediately.  Wright has been part of a Title IX investigation that resulted from a conflict last year over court time with girls volleyball.  RCS claimed last week that the results of the investigation have not been submitted to the school.

RICHMOND NATIVE TO RECRUIT DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Revitalize Richmond is the name given to a five-year initiative led by Earlham College to drive economic growth in the city.  Now, they’ve hired someone to lead the way in growing small business in downtown Richmond.  John Przybysz (SHE-bish) has been announced as that leader.  Przybysz is a lifelong Richmond resident with an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan.  He most recently served as a marketing specialist at Reid Health.  An Alabama firm has also been retained as a consultant to help with downtown business recruitment.

DROPPED CHARGES AGAINST TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE DESCRIBED AS "LEGAL MANEUVER"

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Criminal charges have been dropped against a township trustee in Preble County, but it’s very likely only temporary.  36-year-old Wade Guthrie is a trustee in Gasper Township.  Guthrie was arrested earlier this month after allegedly placing cameras in a juvenile girl’s bathroom.  Charges have been dismissed, but the prosecutor’s office indicated it is simply a legal maneuver before the case is presented to a Preble County grand jury.  Guthrie is currently free on bond and is still listed on the county’s website as a trustee.

RPD SEEKS HELP IN IDENTIFYING MILKHOUSE BURGLARS

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond police investigators are asking for the help of the public in locating a couple of males who broke into the west side Milkhouse.  RPD shared numerous surveillance images with the hope that a member of the public can provide an identity.  One was pushing a pinkish-colored bicycle and wearing Crocs.  Chief Kyle Weatherly called the crime reckless, sloppy, and one that would not go unanswered.

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BROOKVILLE LAKE OBSERVED THIS WEEKEND

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--Brookville Lake turns 50 years old this weekend, and there are plenty of events to mark the milestone.  It kicks off Friday afternoon with a ceremony at the overlook near the dam at 1 o’clock.  A parade on Main Street in Brookville steps off at 5 o’clock, and there will be live music on the courthouse lawn from 6 until 9 Friday night.  Since its dedication in 1975, Brookville Lake is estimated to have contributed $100 million to the Whitewater Valley economy.

THREAT FORCES WALMART EVACUATION FOR SECOND TIME IN LESS THAN A WEEK

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--For the second time in less than a week, Richmond’s Walmart was the target of a threat.  The threat was called it at around 4:30 Wednesday afternoon.  The caller had asked to speak with Richmond Police Chief Kyle Weatherly.  The caller lost connection with dispatch, called back, and then threatened to kill people.  Walmart was contacted and made the decision to evacuate the store.  First responders investigated and cleared the scene in about an hour.  No arrests were immediately made.  Police did not initially directly tie Wednesday’s threat to one made last week, but there are similarities – including a specific mention by the caller of Kyle Weatherly.  Last week’s caller demanded an apology from Weatherly for unknown reasons.

BAND DIRECTOR ASKS FOR REDUCED BOND

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Eaton High School’s band director made his first appearance in court Wednesday.   Paul Bingle faces numerous felonies tied to allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship with at least one student.  Bingle was accompanied by his private attorney at Wednesday’s hearing.  He waived his right to a pretrial hearing and requested a bond reduction from half-a-million to a quarter-of-a-million dollars.  If released, Bingle said he would live with his parents.  Court documents now indicated that investigators believe he had inappropriate relations with more than one student.  The judge has not issued a decision on the bond reduction request.

WESTERN WAYNE NAMES NEW SUPERINTENDENT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--Western Wayne Schools has a new superintendent, and they didn’t have to go far to find her.  Kelly Plank was approved earlier this week as the new leader of the district.  Plank comes to Western Wayne from Northeastern, where she has most recently served as the director of curriculum and instruction.  She has also spent time as the principal of Fairview Elementary in Richmond  Plank takes over for interim superintendent Alice Johnson.

COURT DOCUMENTS DETAIL ALLEGATIONS AGAINST SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Court documents were obtained Tuesday that detail the allegations against Eaton High School band director Paul Bingle, who now faces eight criminal charges after alleged inappropriate relations with at least one female student.  According to the documents, another student alerted adults after witnessing troubling behavior by Bingle.  That witness provided investigators with chats through a social messaging app and said that one student would routinely show up an hour before band practice was to have started.  When the school superintendent and a detective went to question Bingle last Thursday, they found him in the band room with the door locked and with the lights off with one female student.  Bingle remains on leave from school and in the Preble County Jail.

FAMILY TO OBSERVE 24-YEAR POINT SINCE NIQUI'S DISAPPEARANCE

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It was 24 years ago Tuesday that Richmond Niqui McCown went to a laundry on South E Street and was never seen again. Here’s Niqui’s daughter, who was just nine years old at the time of her mother's disappearance:  "I don't remember a lot of that time.  I don't remember if it's something that I've suppressed or because my father and my aunts did a really good job of just letting me be a kid."  In recent years, Niqui’s family members have focused on raising awareness of other missing people through their social media page called Missing Niqui McCown.  Tuesday night, a live vigil will take place beginning at 7 o’clock.  You can find a link to it on the Facebook page Missing Niqui McCown.

BAND DIRECTOR ORDERED HELD ON $500,000 BOND

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Eaton High School band director Paul Bingle appeared before a judge for the first time Monday after having been arrested over the weekend after an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old student.  "We're confident that there was inappropriate contact between this teacher and the victim," said Preble County Sheriff Mike Simpson.  Bingle now faces a total of eight criminal charges.  Monday, a judge ordered him held on a total $500,000 bond.  Bingle indicated that he would like to have a public defender appointed.  Some of the evidence in the case includes explicit messages to the student on a private messaging app.  Simpson talked about the possibility of other victims.  "As of what we know today, we do not believe there are more victims other than the one we have," Simpson said.  Bingle, who is 49, has admitted an emotional relationship, but denies it turned sexual.

COUNCIL HEARS ABOUT DESIGNATING DOWNTOWN AS HISTORIC DISTRICT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met Monday night.  Council received an explanation from Dustin Purvis, who is the Director of Infrastructure and Development, about the benefits of establishing parts of downtown as a historic preservation district.  "Hypothetically, if someone purchased and wanted to tear down a building downtown, they would initially have to get approval from the Historic Preservation to do that," Purvis explained.  Council on Monday night also heard an ordinance on first reading involving the pursuit of a large grant which would focus on providing solar energy, primarily for low-income households.

CENTERVILLE LEADS AREA HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS IN SAT RESULTS

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--Last week, the state released ILEARN results, which measure the proficiency of students in grades 3-8 in several scholastic categories.  Now, the state has released the SAT scores of high school juniors.  At Richmond, 304 juniors took the test.  Of those 304, only 37 – or 12% - scored proficient in reading and writing and math.  Some area schools had less than one in ten students hit the benchmark.  Those include Western Wayne, and Randolph Eastern and Southern.  Centerville had the highest percentage of students hit the benchmark for both categories at 33%.  Nettle Creek had 20%, while Northeastern was at 15%.

PART OF EAST MAIN CLOSES FOR LOOP COMPLETION

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--On Monday, a part of East Main Street in Richmond closed to traffic.  The 900 block of East Main will remain closed for the remainder of the week to allow completion of final punch list items for Phase 2 of the Loop project.  Pedestrian traffic will remain open and unaffected.  The city is now three years into the project, which was designed to connect the downtown area to the Depot District through pedestrian and bicycle paths.

EATON H.S. BAND DIRECTOR FACES CHARGES INVOLVING 15-YEAR-OLD STUDENT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--The Eaton High School band director was behind bars Monday morning as a result of his alleged inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old female student.  49-year-old Paul Bingle was taken into custody over the weekend.  Bingle faces charges that include sexual battery by a school person of authority, dissemination of material harmful to a minor, and grooming.  Details of the allegations have not been released.  The girl’s mother took to social media to make accusations that exceed the current criminal charges.  Bingle has been placed on leave by Eaton Community Schools.

I-70 EXIT ONTO U.S. 40 TO CLOSE MONDAY NIGHT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Monday is the last day that traffic on westbound I-70 will be able to exit onto westbound U.S. 40 for two months.  A sign on I-70 at the state line Monday morning indicated that the exit will shut down at 8 o’clock Monday night.  A previous release from INDOT said that the closure will remain in place for two months. It also means that east-side Richmond businesses will see their volume from interstate travelers be effectively cut in half.  That interchange is undergoing major reconstruction as part of Revive I-70.

NO ARRESTS MADE YET AS RESULT OF WALMART THREAT

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--No arrests have been made by Monday morning from a threat that cleared out Richmond’s Walmart on Saturday morning.  According to RPD Chief Kyle Weatherly, the suspect called 911 repeatedly and, in one of those calls, indicated that a bomb had been placed inside Walmart.  The building was cleared of customers and employees and checked.  Weatherly said that the suspect had demanded an apology from Weatherly for talking badly about him.  Weatherly responded by saying there won’t be an apology, but he does expect the suspect to issue one to Walmart customers and employees and to first responders.

U.S. 27 CLOSES IN UNION COUNTY AFTER MULTI-VEHICLE CRASH

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--A multi-vehicle crash closed U.S. 27 for a couple of hours in Union County early Sunday afternoon.  It happened at the intersection of 27 and Mitchell Road, which is a couple of miles south of the Wayne County line.  Scanner traffic indicated that one elderly female was trapped in a one of the vehicles and that she was unresponsive.  Union County has not released any details of the crash or the identities and conditions of those involved.

ONE KILLED IN FAYETTE COUNTY CRASH

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fayette County, IN)--There was a fatal crash in a rural area of Fayette County on Friday night.  It happened at the intersection of County Roads 400 North and 450 West.  That’s a few miles south of Bentonville.   Investigators say that one vehicle went through the intersection without stopping and struck a second vehicle.  One person was pronounced dead at the scene.  That person’s name has not been released.  There’s also no word this morning on the identity or condition of the other driver that was involved in the crash.

MAN JAILED FOR INTIMIDATION WITH DEADLY WEAPON

Posted About Nine Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--A local man was in custody Monday morning after allegedly threatening his neighbor late Sunday night.  Police reports indicate 48-year-old Michael Hales got into a dispute with a neighbor, retrieved a gun, and then stood staring at the neighbor while holding that weapon.  Hales is now charged with intimidation with a deadly weapon.

RCS SHOWS MODEST IMPROVEMENT IN ILEARN RESULTS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s more on ILEARN results that were released this week.  Even though Richmond finished well below state average in both math and English proficiency, it is showing modest improvement over the last couple of years.  Two years ago, 22% of students were proficient in English.  Now, that number is up to 25%.  And, in math, the proficiency rate in 2023 was 20%.  Now, it’s 23%.  And, there is a correction to be made from our report yesterday.  Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported that Northeastern and Nettle Creek were the only two area schools above state average in math and English.  We neglected to include Centerville, which was narrowly above average in English and well above average in math.

TWO AREA HIGHWAYS TO CLOSE IN TEN DAYS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Two more highway closures are coming to the Whitewater Valley.  Beginning a week from Monday, State Road 1 will close between I-70 and State Road 38 for a series of pipe replacements.  The closure will be only Monday through Friday from 7 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon and will last for about three weeks.  On that same day, Monday the 28^th, U.S. 27 will close in both directions in Randolph County near County Road 250 South, which is a couple of miles south of Winchester.  INDOT said yesterday that the closure will remain in place through the end of next month and will allow crews to complete a box culvert replacement project.

CONVICTED DRUG DEALER ARRESTED ON MORE DEALING CHARGES

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Back in 2019, Dylan Marshall was sentenced to six years in prison for dealing drugs.  Thursday night, he was arrested on a whole new round of dealing charges.  RPD officers came into contact with Marshall near North 15^th and A in Richmond at around 10:30 Thursday night.  As a result, he was charged with dealing controlled substances, two counts of dealing meth, and dealing marijuana.  The quantity of drugs involved has not been released.  Marshall is being held on a $30,000 bond.

HICKS STEPS DOWN AS NORTHEASTERN SUPERINTENDENT

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--Dr. Matthew Hicks has apparently stepped down as the superintendent at Northeastern.  Although there has been no official mention of Hicks’ resignation from the school, Northeastern’s website this morning has an application for superintendent.  Hicks has led the school system since 2020.  Northeastern has set the deadline for the next superintendent to apply at August 6.

LYNN WOMAN ARRESTED FOR SEXUALLY ASSAULTING BOY AT CHURCH CAMP

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lynn, IN)--A Lynn woman is accused of molesting a teenage boy who she met at a summer church camp.  20-year-old Kylee Oliver is now charged with two counts of molesting.  Court documents indicate that Oliver admitted to investigators that the inappropriate contact with the 13-year-old boy began earlier this year and continued at a home in Lynn.  She’s due for an initial hearing on Monday.

RCS SCORES WELL BELOW STATE AVERAGES IN ILEARN TESTING

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--ILEARN results were released Wednesday for students across Indiana in grades 3 through 8.  It measures proficiency of students in math, English, and other areas of study.  Statewide, 41% of students are proficient in English and 42% are proficient in math.  For Richmond Community Schools, the numbers are significantly lower.  Wednesday’s results show only 25% of students are proficient in English and 23% are proficient in math.  The numbers drop further when counting students who are proficient in both subjects.  For instance, only nine percent of RCS eighth-graders are proficient in both.  At the elementary level, Charles performed best with half of students proficient in both subjects.  No other elementary was even close to that.

NORTHEASTERN, NETTLE CREEK EXCEED STATE AVERAGES IN ILEARN RESULTS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Here’s a look at how non-Richmond area schools fared with ILEARN results, which were released Wednesday by the state.  Statewide, 41% of students are proficient in English and 42% are proficient in math.  Across the Whitewater Valley, only two school districts exceeded both state averages.  Those two are Northeastern and Nettle Creek.  Centerville and Union County fell just short of state average, while other local districts fell significantly short of average.  At Western Wayne, less than one in ten students going into high school was proficient in both math and English.  The same is true at Randolph Eastern.

EDC REACHES MAKE MY MOVE GOAL

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--When Wayne County’s Economic Development Corporation launched its Make My Move program, the goal was to recruit 30 remote workers to move to Wayne County.  Now, the EDC has announced that it has reached that goal.  The top states of origin have been Florida, California, and Ohio.  A total of 71 people have moved into the county through the program with an average personal annual income of $102,000.

CHARGES UPGRADED AGAINST TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lake Lakengren, OH)--Charges were upgraded Wednesday against a township trustee in Preble County who was originally charged last weekend with voyeurism.  36-year-old Wade Guthrie is now also charged with illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material and grooming.  New details Wednesday indicated that Guthrie allegedly made video recordings of a juvenile in a bathroom at a private home.  Gasper Township issued a statement Wednesday saying that they are aware of the charges but are not commenting.  Guthrie’s term isn’t set to expire until the end of 2027.

STOLEN STOP SIGNS CREATE DANGEROUS SITUATION IN DARKE COUNTY

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--In Darke County, someone is creating a dangerous situation on roadways by stealing road signs.  Investigators said Wednesday night that numerous road signs have been stolen across Darke County over the last five days.  Many of the stolen signs are stop signs that would prevent drivers from going through intersections without slowing down.  Anyone with any information is asked to call the sheriff’s department or Darke County Crimestoppers.

MAN SHOT AT NORTH WEST L AND PEACOCK ROAD

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There was a shooting late Tuesday night in Richmond.  It happened at around 11 o’clock near the intersection of North West Fifth and Peacock Road.  The male victim told police that he was outside in the area when he heard a gunshot and realized he had been shot in the stomach area.  He was taken first to Reid Health.  According to scanner traffic, a helicopter was requested to transfer him to a Level I trauma center.  The victim has a lengthy criminal history, including five felony drug cases and three felony burglary-related cases.

REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION APPROVES FUNDING FOR RCS / IVY TECH COLLABORATION

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Community Schools administrators went before the Richmond Redevelopment Commission Tuesday to request $110,000 to help develop a pipeline to provide students who are ready to work to local business and industry.  "This is about keeping talent here at home - preparing students not just for jobs, but for meaningful careers that contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our city," said RCS Superintendent Dr. Curtis Wright.  A collaboration between RCS and Ivy Tech would help to provide specific training for skills like welding and nursing while students are still in high school.  "It is quite an opportunity with something tangible for students to take away," explained Ivy Tech’s Chad Bolser.  The program is also being developed to prepare for different state graduation standards that go into effect in 2029.  The amount requested was for $55,000 for each of two years.  The Redevelopment Commission on Tuesday gave unanimous approval to the funding.

HIGH E. COLI LEVELS CLOSE MOUNDS BEACH FOR SWIMMING

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Franklin County, IN)--A couple of weeks ago, high levels of E. coli forced the closure of the beach at Whitewater Memorial State Park in Union County.  Now, the same issue has closed the beach for swimming at Mounds Beach on Brookville Lake.  Indiana State Parks announced the closure Tuesday because weekly water test results showed high levels of E. coli.  There is no time frame for the beach closure at Mounds to remain in place.  The beach at Quakertown remains open for swimming, and the beach at Whitewater reopened a few days after closing.

INDOT CHANGES PLAN TO CLOSE BOTH EXITS OF I-70 ONTO U.S. 40 SIMULTANEOUSLY

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--INDOT has made a major change for the closure of the east and westbound exit ramps from I-70 to U.S. 40.  Just two weeks ago, INDOT announced that it would close both exit ramps simultaneously and for two months.  That closure would have effectively taken away all interstate traffic from east-side Richmond restaurants, gas stations, and hotels for 60 days.  But that is no longer the plan.  INDOT announced Monday that only the westbound ramp onto U.S. 40 will close next week and remain closed for two months.  The two-month closure for the eastbound exit onto 40 is now not going to happen until next year.  INDOT is installing what they describe as a roundabout at that interchange.

MAN JAILED TUESDAY MORNING AFTER ALLEGEDLY BATTERING RPD OFFICER

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A disturbance early Tuesday morning has landed a Richmond man behind bars after he allegedly battered a Richmond police officers.  It happened at around midnight in the 200 block of North 17^th after a screaming female called 911.  Officers arrived and took 31-year-old Isaac Anderson into custody.  He went first to Reid Health and then to jail.  There was no indication that an officer was injured.  Anderson is also charged with resisting.

PREBLE COUNTY TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE CHARGED WITH VOYEURISM

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lake Lakengren, OH)--A township trustee in Preble County has been arrested and charged with voyeurism.  Details in the criminal case of 36-year-old Wade Guthrie were sent to the Preble County Prosecutor’s office yesterday.  He is also charged with tampering with evidence.  Details of what led to the charges have not been released.  Guthrie was elected as a trustee in Gasper Township, which is essentially Lakengren, in November of last year.  His term is set to expire at the end of 2027.

MAN BONDS OUT OF JAIL AFTER ALLEGEDLY FLEEING FATAL CRASH

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A crash Saturday night in Richmond’s Whitewater Gorge turned fatal, and now a Richmond man is facing criminal charges.  According to an RPD press release, they arrived to find a single-car crash with a man later identified as 48-year-old Christopher Kennedy trapped inside.  Kennedy was removed from the wreckage and taken to Reid Health, where he was later pronounced dead.  27-year-old Billy Goodwin was then located at his home and charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident, false informing, and resisting arrest.  Goodwin has already posted bond and was free Mo nday morning.

EIGHT PEOPLE HOSPITALIZED IN PREBLE COUNTY CRASH

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Preble County, OH)--Eight people were hospitalized after a rollover crash in Preble County on Saturday night.  Deputies and medics responded to a crash at the intersection of State Route 725 and Fairhaven-College Corner Road near the state line and determined that a passenger vehicle pulled out in front of a transit van.  Three helicopters were called and  flew a total of four people, including two children, to various hospitals.  The van’s driver and three other children were taken to hospitals by ground ambulance.  Three other children were checked at the scene.  The conditions of all of the victims have not been released.  Police were investigating to see if drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.

RCS GRANTED ADDITIONAL TIME TO RESPOND TO BULLYING LAWSUIT

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Motions were filed on Friday in the case of a lawsuit filed against both Richmond Community Schools and the city of Richmond involving alleged ongoing bullying against a student.  That student’s family alleges that severe physical injuries and sexual assault occurred during bullying at Dennis Middle School.  On Friday, RCS filed a motion for additional time to respond to the allegations.  The district now has until September 3 to respond.

ARREST MADE IN DRIVE-BY SHOOTING

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The alleged drive-by shooter of a home on Toschlog Road was taken into custody less than 24 hours after the incident occurred.  According to Wayne County Sheriff Randy Retter, a caller to 911 on Wednesday afternoon witnessed a long gun with a bayonet extending from the window of the vehicle.  Two shots were fired.  Neighborhood video showed the fleeing vehicle and helped investigators track it to the 200 block of South West 3^rd.  21-year-old Gabriel Howe, who used the name “Ben”, was taken into custody Thursday after further investigation.  So far, he is charged with criminal recklessness.  The occupant of the home was on a couch sleeping when the shooting occurred and was not hurt.  There has been no word on what prompted the shooting.  Online court records indicate Howe was arrested on very similar charges a year and a half ago, but the charge related to shooting into a building was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.  He pled guilty to dealing marijuana and spent three days in jail.

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR RICHMOND'S NEW BASEBALL TEAM'S NICKNAME

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s new collegiate-level summer baseball team will begin play next summer at McBride Stadium.  They’re still without a nickname.  But, after lots of public submissions of suggestions, the list has been narrowed down to five.  Here they are:  the Richmond Wampus Cats, the Richmond Stardust, the Richmond Flying Mummies, the Richmond Groove, and the Richmond Plastic Dinos.  Most of the early sentiment since the final five was made public steers toward the Richmond Groove.  Voting will be open for another month.

STUDY: 46% OF LOCAL RESIDENTS EARN LESS THAN WHAT THEY NEED FOR ESSENTIALS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne and Union County, IN)--Updated research from the United Way of the Whitewater Valley reveals some startling numbers regarding ALICE.  ALICE is an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.  In other words, it’s the people who have jobs and income that’s more than the federal poverty level, but not enough to afford essentials like housing, food, and transportation.  The updated research shows that 46% of Wayne County families and 31% of families in Union County earn less than what it takes to meet essential needs in a modern economy.  They say that, now, the bare minimum cost of living locally is $26,000 for a single adult and $72,000 for a family of four.

MAN ALREADY FACING STRANGULATION CHARGES ARRESTED FOR BREAKING CAR WINDOWS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who is just a few weeks away from a pre-trial hearing on charges that include intimidation with a deadly weapon, strangulation, and domestic battery was jailed following an incident Wednesday night.  Police were called to the 200 block of North 6^th Street and found that 37-year-old David Perry was allegedly smashing the windows out a vehicle with a baseball bat.  He was charged with criminal mischief.  No details regarding what prompted the incident have been released.

ALGAE ALERTS ISSUED FOR BROOKVILLE LAKE BEACHES

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union and Franklin County, IN)--Two beach alerts are now in place at Brookville Lake due to high levels of blue-green algae.  According to the DNR website Wednesday morning, there is a low-risk alert for swimmers at Quakertown Beach.  The only recommendation is that swimmers shower after entering the water.  Further to the south, the alert level is higher.  Mounds Beach now has an advisory-level alert.  Showering is recommended and swimmers should try to keep the water out of their mouths.  An e-coli alert that had been in effect at Whitewater Memorial State Park is no longer listed.  But, there is one other alert at Whitewater…it’s for black vultures.  The vultures are picking at anything rubber on vehicles parked at the lake.  That includes window seals and windshield wipers.

MAN ABANDONS YOUNG CHILD DURING FOOT CHASE

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A man allegedly fled on foot from police Tuesday night, but left his young child behind in the car.  43-year-old Mark Cotter had an active warrant for failing to appear on driving while suspended and OWI charges.  When he came into contact with police at around 6:30 Wednesday night in Richmond’s Depot District, he fled on foot and abandoned his young child.  He was captured on Neff Street.  The young child was quickly turned over to another adult.  Cotter now faces additional charges of child neglect and resisting arrest.

RCS BOARD TO REJECT LYBOULT FIELD RENOVATION BID

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Community School Board is set to meet Wednesday afternoon.  The Board will address and is expected to approve an agreement with Centerstone.  Centerstone would provide a wide variety of mental health services for students at RCS at no cost to the district.  The Board is also expected to reject a bid for Lyboult Field renovation.  Thor Construction was the only bidder and submitted an amount of just over $3.5 million.  The agenda indicates the project now requires a reevaluation of the budget.  Wednesday’s meeting begins at 5:30.

FIVE NEIGHBORHOODS IDENTIFIED FOR 82 SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Wayne County will see the construction of 82 single-family homes through its Housing Accelerator Program that is managed by the EDC of Wayne County.  The EDC announced Monday that five eligible applications were identified.  The largest is Willowbrook Place in Centerville.  That location will provide 24 single-family homes with asking prices of around $300,000.  Hidden Valley in Richmond is slated for 20 new homes with an average asking price of $400,000.  The other three locations are Meers Estates just north of Cambridge City and Garwood Acres and Sandbridge Hills in Richmond.  The new developments represent an investment of $26 million throughout Wayne County.

CITY SHARES REBRANDING IMAGES

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The city of Richmond on Monday night unveiled some of the results of efforts to rebrand itself.  It comes after months of discussions with residents, business owners, and others about how the city can best market itself.  A color scheme of dark red, yellow, and blue was chosen.  "It really pulls from what is Richmond.  We pulled from that beautiful blue sky, we have the use of red, and we have the use of the yellow," said Molly Meininger with Guide Studio, which specializes in branding and bringing out community identity.  Some of the badges, which can be used like logos, pay homage to the city’s history.  "We have the star, we have inspiration from jazz with the trumpet, and we also have the honoring of the roses," Meininger added.   The branding could show up on clothing, city vehicles, and even beverage containers.

ACCUSED MACHETE MURDERER PLEADS INSANITY

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--The Preble County man accused of killing a passenger on a passing motorcycle was formally indicted by a grand jury Monday.  Now, 59-year-old Kenneth Brabant has pled not guilty by reason of insanityThe court has been asked to evaluate Brabant’s competency to stand trial.

SEVEN RP&L TRANSFORMERS NEED REPLACEMENT

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Results of a rate study were presented to the Richmond Power & Light Board Monday night.  Part of the presentation by General Manager Tony Foster was the need to replace seven large power transformers in the next ten years.  "These are not inexpensive.  These are probably $1.5 million to $2 million a pop," Foster explained.  There was no indication of how that and other factors could affect rates.  RP&L does a rate study every five years.

MAN JAILED FOR BATTERING PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIAL

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man was taken to the Wayne County Jail early Tuesday morning after appearing to have been on the business end of an altercation with police.  The mug shot of 29-year-old Charles Hill Junior shows a large road-rash-type wound on his cheek.  Officers came into contact will Hill at just before 1 o’clock Tuesday morning at North 9^th and C Street.  Hill was allegedly in possession of methamphetamine, but also allegedly battered a public safety official.  He’s also charges with resisting arrest.  There’s no word yet on the amount of drugs that was recovered.

FIREWORKS INCIDENTS MAR INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--The weekend’s Fourth of July celebrations were not without incident.  In Darke County, a 12-year-old boy was flown to Cincinnati Children’s with a severe hand injury after a firework went off in his hand.  Two men were injured at the Darke County Fairgrounds when they were firing a test shot.  One of the two was injured badly enough to be taken to Miami Valley Hospital.  The fireworks display was cancelled.  And, in Richmond, fire officials investigated to see if fireworks were responsible for a fire that broke out on home’s roof on South 15^th late Friday night.

RICHMOND FIRE DEPARTMENT DOWN 14 FIREFIGHTERS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council has what should be a fairly quick meeting scheduled for Monday night.  The only issue on the agenda is a request for an additional $12,000 to cover pre-employment physicals for firefighters.  Each physical now costs $2300.  The Richmond Fire Department is now down 14 members.  Five new firefighters will be coming on board soon, but there will still be nine vacancies through the end of the year.  Monday night’s meeting begins at 7 o’clock.  As always, you can catch it live on WCTV.

WANTED MAN CAPTURED IN BACK YARD NEAR ARBORETUM

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A wanted Richmond man was captured early Monday morning after a run through Hayes Arboretum.  47-year-old Jason Wigger was captured at 2:30 Monday morning after jumping a fence dividing the arboretum from someone’s back yard on Pinehurst Drive.  Wigger has two active criminal cases.  One is for felony intimidation from April of this year, while another is for a domestic battery from two years ago.  Wigger failed to show up for a hearing last month and a warrant for his arrest was issued.  Now, he’ll be held without bond.

TESTIMONY INDICATES MAN ADMITTED TO MACHETE MURDER

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--A Preble County man accused of murder appeared in court for the first time Wednesday.  Captain Shane Hatfield testified that Kenneth Brabant admitted to causing the death of Leigha Huff when he swung a machete at her as she passed by his home on a motorcycle.  Hatfield also testified that Brabant had no connection to the victim.  After the incident, Brabant hid the machete in the woods behind his Gratis-area home.  He later drew a map that led investigators to the murder weapon.  Brabant is still in jail on a million-dollar bond.

BULLYING ALLEGATIONS LEAD TO LAWSUIT AGAINST RCS, CITY

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An allegation of two years of bullying has led to a lawsuit that’s been filed against Richmond Community Schools and the City of Richmond.  According to the details contained in the lawsuit, a minor girl underwent bullying for two years that included being pushed into a wall, punched in the head, and touched in a sexual manner.  The lawsuit alleges that school officials knew about the alleged bullying, but did nothing to keep it from continuing.  The city is named in the lawsuit because it provides a school resource officer.  The school district and the city have not yet filed responses with the court.  The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages.

WERNLE PROPERTY SALE RECORDED AT $5 MILLION

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A few large property transfers have been recorded in Wayne County offices.  There are two entries indicating that property previously owned by Wernle Youth and Family Services has transferred to the Damar Foundation for a total of $5 million.  The new facility is expected to open in the fall and will provide help for people with autism and developmental intellectual disabilities.  Also, a property in front of Meijer on Chester Boulevard has been sold by one LLC to another for almost $2.8 million.  The buyer is recorded as 7 River Street, LLC.

FOUR IU EAST PROGRAMS TO END

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Indiana University East is among six of Indiana’s public colleges and universities that are cutting programs after a new state law took effect this week.  University officials have called it a voluntary change that targets degree programs with low student participation.  IU East will be eliminating bachelor of science degrees in biology, biochemistry, and international studies, and a masters degree in public administration.  The programs will remain in place until the students currently enrolled have gotten through the program.

e. COLI FORCES CLOSURE OF AREA BEACH

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--High levels of e. Coli have forced the indefinite closure of the beach at Whitewater Memorial State Park in Union County.  Weekly water testing indicated e. Coli levels that exceed safe contact with humans.  The Department of Environmental Management called it an uncommon occurrence and is entirely different than an alert for blue-green algae.  Beaches at Mounds and Quakertown will remain open.  Beaches at other large lakes, including at Hueston Woods and Lakengren, are also open.

JUVENILE HURT IN FALL FROM ATV

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--A juvenile was seriously injured after falling off the back of an ATV in Cambridge City Tuesday.  At around noon, two juveniles were riding the same ATV in front of Lincoln High School.  The passenger, who was not wearing a helmet, fell off the back.  That victim was taken first to Reid Health and then flown to a Level 1 trauma center.  There was no word on the victim’s condition Wednesday morning.  Police credited some Lincoln students who helped until first responders arrived.

CENTERVILLE'S CENTRAL INTERSECTION TO PARTIALLY CLOSE FOR A MONTH

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--Getting around Centerville is about to become more difficult.  INDOT has announced that as soon as this coming Monday, both the north and south approaches to Centerville’s primary intersection – U.S. 40 and Morton Avenue – will be closed.  It means that turning from 40 onto Morton Street in either direction will not be possible.  INDOT says the closure is to modernize the traffic light.  The project is expected to take about a month to complete.  U.S. 40 will remain open through the process.

I-70 EXITS TO U.S. 40 TO CLOSE FOR TWO MONTHS

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It’s bound to have a big impact on eastside Richmond businesses.  INDOT announced Monday that drivers going east or west on I-70 will not be able to exit at U.S. 40 for around two months.  The closure will begin in about two weeks.  During that time, crews will be removing existing pavement and begin roundabout construction at the interchange.  The fully reconstructed interchange isn’t expected to open for two and a half years, although the exits will again be usable by mid-September.  Also Monday, the Cardinal Greenway Trail closed in the area where it passes under I-70.  That closure will remain in place through at least the end of this year.

TOPPLED CRANE BLOCKS I-70

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--I-70 was blocked for hours Monday when a crane toppled over in the Revive I-70 construction area.  It happened at just after noon Monday in the eastbound lanes near the Reservoir Road overpass.  Eastbound traffic was immediately brought to a standstill.  Traffic quickly backed up and diverted onto Richmond streets, which were then clogged for most of the afternoon.  INDOT indicated eastbound 70 reopened after about four hours.  There’s no word on what caused the incident or whether or not there were any injuries.

FAMILY CREDITS VICTIM'S BROTHER IN TEEN SHOOTING

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s more on the shooting of the Richmond teen that occurred last weekend.  There has been no updated word Tuesday morning on the boy’s condition or any charges the teen shooter may face.  And, while numerous first responders were involved in getting the boy across the river and to the hospital, family members are also crediting the boy’s brother.  Those family members say the brother immediately applied pressure to the wound, which was in the torso.  He then had his younger brother recite his ABC’s to stay awake.  The identities of all three boys involved have not been released.

SKIMMER PLACED ON PAVEY'S CARD MACHINE

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the help of the public in identifying two men who placed a card skimming machine at Pavey’s Country Store on State Road 1.  A surveillance photo gives a clear image of the men, who appear to be in their 20’s.  One is wearing a unique hat that looks just like Gilligan wore on Gilligan’s Island.  Investigators say they believe the device was located before the suspects could obtain any information.  Still, they suggest checking statements if cards were used at Pavey’s between 4 o’clock last Wednesday afternoon and 8 o’clock last Thursday morning.

NEW CIGARETTE TAX COULD SEND SMOKERS ACROSS STATE LINE

Posted About Ten Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A new tax that went into effect Tuesday could send lots of Indiana smokers in our area across the state line to buy their tobacco products.  As of Tuesday morning, the tax on a pack of cigarettes in Indiana has increased from about a dollar to about three dollars.  Richmond retailers say that the new tax brings the total for a pack to anywhere between $7 and $12.  At that maximum price, the smoker of a pack of cigarettes per day would spend $360 per month or more than $4000 per year supporting their habit.  While the tax is now three dollars in Indiana, it’s $1.60 in Ohio.