Kicks 96 Local News

Arrest Made After SWAT Standoff in Richmond

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Ella Chew

RICHMOND, Ind. — A Richmond man was taken into custody Tuesday following a standoff involving the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and the Richmond Police Department’s SWAT team.

According to authorities, Josh Farmer was wanted on several outstanding warrants when deputies attempted to make contact with him at a residence on 11th Street around 10:30 a.m. After Farmer failed to respond, the SWAT team was activated.

As part of the operation, officers deployed clear-out gas in an effort to safely bring Farmer out of the home. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution during the incident.

The situation was resolved around 3:45 p.m. SWAT members were able to make entry and located Farmer. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Farmer now faces multiple charges, including Level 5 felony burglary, Level 6 felony possession of methamphetamine, and Level 6 felony possession of a syringe. He's also been involved in several local thefts.

No injuries were reported during the standoff and there is no threat to the public. The investigation is ongoing.

COUNCIL QUESTIONS BUDGET'S TRANSFERS, CARRY-OVER

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--One thing was clear when Richmond Common Council met Monday night to address next year’s budget, and that is that much remains unclear. There was some confusion from the controller’s office "I'm not sure if I know how to explain this properly," and from council "I'm not sure if I'm making sense." The issues that remain in question and that led to attempts at explanation Monday night include potential transfers from police and fire pensions to other departments and a carryover amount from this year that would be applied to next year’s budget. Council member Justin Burkhardt tried to sum up a shortfall in an exchange with Mayor Ron Oler:

Burkhardt: "I wanted to go on record and make sure we all understood that."

Oler: "There's $3 million in savings this year to fund that."

Burkhardt: "It's unbalanced by $2.3 (million)."

The budget now goes back to the Finance Committee. "The Finance Committee has a big job ahead of them," said Council President Larry Parker. Both the Finance Committee and Common Council will again address the budget this coming Monday night.

MAN RELEASED ON BOND AFTER DRUG ARREST

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man has already bonded out of jail after a drug arrest Mnday afternoon. It was the third time in the last five years that 57-year-old Randall Sparks has been jailed in Wayne County on various drug charges. Sparks was jailed Monday afternoon after his arrest in the 1300 block of South 13^th. He was allegedly in possession of cocaine or other drugs and resisted arrest. Details of what led to Monday’s incident have not been released.

NO ARRESTS MADE IN WEEKEND SHOOTING

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Jail book-ins over the weekend indicate that no arrests have been made as of Monday morning in connection with Richmond’s latest shooting. It happened early Saturday morning in the 800 block of North 19^th and began with a call to 911 on the report of a person having difficulty breathing. When medics arrived, they discovered that the adult male victim had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. The victim was taken first to Reid Health and then transferred to Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton. That man’s identity and condition as of Monday morning have not been released. There’s no other information about a possible shooter, but investigators say it is an isolated incident.

TEEN KILLED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY CRASH

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Franklin County, IN)--A Franklin County teen was killed in a crash early Sunday morning. Investigators say that 17-year-old Ethan Heath of Laurel was driving on State Road 1 at around 4:30 Monday morning just south of Blooming Grove. For reasons that have yet to be determined, the boy’s vehicle left the roadway, struck a culvert, and rolled several times. Ethan Heath was pronounced dead at the scene. Franklin County Schools said Sunday night that additional counselors will be available at school Monday to support staff and students who may need help processing the news.

I-70 RAMP REOPENS WITH CLARIFICATION FROM INDOT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The exit ramp from westbound I-70 to westbound U.S. 40 reopened over the weekend after having been shut down for several months. And, with that opening comes a clarification from INDOT. In a release last week, INDOT said that when the ramp reopened, drivers would be using half of the future roundabouts under construction. Over the weekend, though, INDOT said that only a slight shift to new pavement would occur and that the new interchanges won’t open in their final configuration for another two years.

WAYNE BANK CHANGES OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There’s been a change in the ownership structure of Wayne Bank. Wayne Bank has announced that it is now partially employee-owned through a new Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Employees now join the founding Boyd family as co-owners of the 143-year-old community bank. President and CEO Mike Gaddis said that the new structure will ensure the bank will remain strong, independent, and locally focused for generations to come.

CITY PRIORITIZES RENTAL REGISTRATION PROGRAM, ADDITIONAL GROCERIES IN UPDATED PLAN

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The city of Richmond on Thursday released a draft of a new comprehensive plan. That plan is a guide for future growth and development. This new, 78-page plan updates a 2019 plan and includes a list of recommendations and priorities. The first strategy is to create a rental registration program to ensure properties are maintained to community standards. The second strategy is to create a plan to attract grocers to neighborhoods lacking grocery stores. The entire report is available through a link on the city’s Facebook page.

RCS RELEASES STATEMENT ON TITLE IX INVESTIGATION

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Community Schools released a statement Thursday on the Title IX investigation, which was reviewed Wednesday night by the RCS Board. The statement said that the targeted audit of Richmond High School’s 21 athletic teams found no Title IX violations, but did provide a series of recommendations. Those recommendations include coach training on Title IX and an equitable calendar for social media and announcements. Thursday’s statement did not mention the allegations that arose from a dispute between girls volleyball and boys basketball that prompted the investigation. Here is the statement in its entirety:

Last night, Richmond Community Schools announced completion of a Title IX Gender Equity in Athletics assessment at Richmond High School, conducted by Church Church Hittle + Antrim (CCHA). The Board approved the targeted audit in October 2024 as part of the district's commitment to equitable athletic opportunities. CCHA interviewed RHS administration, athletic directors, the majority of coaches across all sports, and student-athletes.

The targeted audit of Richmond High School's 21 athletic teams found no Title IX violations. However, the audit provides recommendations for improved student-athlete experiences. For example, RHS needs 54 additional female student-athlete participation opportunities to achieve proportionality. Female participation dropped from 43% in 2020 to 40% in 2024.

The assessment examined four treatment areas: publicity, locker rooms and facilities, equipment and supplies, and scheduling of games and practice times.

RHS administration has already begun implementing the majority of the report's recommendations:

*Girls' wrestling room relocated to Tiernan Center upper deck for safety

*Student Athlete Leadership Team (SALT) formed for student input

*Equitable content calendar implemented for social media and announcements

*Weekly transportation assignment reviews established

*Coach training on Title IX gender equity initiated

Using 2023 bond funding, the district is adding a practice turf field, renovating tennis courts, and improving McBride Stadium softball facilities including lighting and amenities.

"These are opportunities to build a more equitable and inclusive athletic program," the report concluded. The District Title IX Coordinator will continue to meet regularly with the Athletic Director to ensure ongoing compliance.

LEADER OF BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WAYNE COUNTY RESIGNS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--The Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County is beginning a search for a new leader. The organization announced Thursday that Alicia Painter will be stepping down from her role as CEO at the end of November. In Painter’s four-year tenure, membership at the Boys & Girls Club grew to more than 2000. That’s about 21% of school-aged kids in Wayne County. The search for a new leader will be one that’s nationwide. No reason for Painter’s departure was included in Thursday’s release.

DESPITE RECENT RAIN, AREA REMAINS CLASSIFIED AS IN MODERATE DROUGHT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Despite the rain we had this week, the Whitewater Valley remains in a moderate drought. That’s according to a weekly map issued every Thursday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The northern section of Randolph County has now advanced into severe drought status. Officially, Richmond has received 8/10 of an inch of rain over the last three days. That’s more rain than we had received in the previous 51 days combined.

RCS BOARD ADDRESSES TITLE IX REPORT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Community School Board met Wednesday night and addressed a Title IX report. That report was several months in the making following a dispute last fall over access to the Tiernan Center between the boys basketball and girls volleyball teams. Wednesday night, an attorney gave highlights of the report remotely, but the audio from that report was too garbled to be understood by those watching online. After the attorney’s report, the Board talked about recommendations that were ostensibly included in the report. "And although they didn't find any Title IX violations, they did give us recommendations and we're really committed to doing better - being better," said RCS Board member Kristen Brunton. More information about the report – and, possibly, the report itself – is expected to be released to the public Thursday.

COUNCIL WORKS TO FINALIZE 2026 BUDGET

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met again Wednesday night as a committee of the whole to try to finalize the 2026 budget. Finance Committee Chairman Justin Burkhardt had indicated that during Monday and Tuesday night hearings, several financial errors were uncovered. One of the primary issues was that the Richmond Parks Department was unbalanced by more than $2.4 million. That brought about a proposal to move $300,000 from police and fire pensions to the parks department. Here’s Burkhardt putting a wrap on more than six hours of meetings this week: "I would think that just encouraging looking at what is essential and what is not essential is going to be key...and right-sizing what the city needs." The budget will be passed in normal council meetings in coming weeks.

NO INJURIES REPORTED IN WELDING SHOP EXPLOSION

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(West Alexandria, OH)--There was an explosion at a Preble County business Wednesday morning. It happened at around 8:30 at a welding shop on U.S. 35 in West Alexandria. Workers were cutting with an acetylene torch when it began to leak and caused the explosion. No injuries were reported and there was no damage done to the building. It did create a small fire, which employees were able to extinguish on their own.

WOMAN JAILED FOR DOMESTIC BATTERY WITH DEADLY WEAPON

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--A Wayne County woman went to jail Wednesday following a domestic incident on Inke Road. 32-year-old Erin Snowden now faces charges that include domestic battery with a deadly weapon. There has been no word so far of any injury, and details of exactly what happened have not been released. Back in July, Snowden was sentenced to 40 days in jail for driving under the influence and leaving the scene of a crash. That incident happened in March.

RCS BOARD TO DISCUSS TITLE IX REPORT WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Community School Board meets late Wednesday afternoon. The agenda includes a discussion of the Title IX report. A year ago, accusations surfaced that the boys basketball team received preferential treatment for practice facilities. "Our assistant athletic director told us that it didn't matter if we were in-season...that the boys were in the gym and we needed to leave," said one member of the girls volleyball team late last year. The accusation was supported months later by a former athletic director, who wrote in a report that access to the Tiernan Center is not equal for boys and girls. RCS released a statement calling the accusations "speculation, innuendo, rhetoric, and propaganda." Results of the Title IX investigation and report will be discussed Wednesday night. So far, that report has not been made public. Wednesday’s meeting begins at 5:30.

PREBLE COUNTY CUTS POLLING LOCATIONS FROM 20 TO 6

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Preble County, OH)--Preble County has announced a major consolidation of polling places for voting on Election Day in early November. The county is reducing the number of polling places from 20 down to just six. Board of Education Director Lisa Boggs said that more and more people are voting early either by mail or at the Preble County Courthouse and that voter turnout on the actual Election Day does not support the cost of operating 20 locations. Now, nearly all Preble County residents will vote at the school in the district where they live. The only exception is Fairhaven. That’s because of its remote location and distance from any school.

I-70 EXIT TO OPEN THIS WEEKEND WITH ROUNDABOUT IN USE

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s some great news for east-side Richmond businesses. The ramp from westbound I-70 to westbound U.S. 40 will reopen this weekend after having been closed since late July. That closure effectively cut the number of customers leaving the interstate to patronize local hotels and restaurants in half. Drivers in that area will notice a big change beginning this weekend. One of the two roundabouts will be in use. When the project is complete, there will be two roundabouts on 40. One will be on each side of I-70. The complete reconstruction of that interchange is not expected to be complete for more than a year.

COUNCIL BEGINS TWO-DAY BUDGET MEETINGS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met Monday night as a committee of the whole to address the city’s budget for 2026. Council members heard from various department heads about projected revenues and expenses for next year. Mayor Ron Oler also provided an overview of the city’s goals. "Our focus will be on people, places, and things with an eye first to public safety, then to infrastructure, and then to community services," Oler explained. Oler said that property tax caps have prevented more than $120 million from entering city coffers over the last 15 years. "But we have survived - mostly through staffing reductions, deferred building maintenance, and years of no pay increases to non-union civilian employees," he added. Council will meet again Tuesday night beginning at 6:30 to continue to work on next year’s budget.

IU EAST: 71% OF STUDENTS NOW PURSUE FULLY ONLINE DEGREES

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--IU East released some numbers on Monday that reveal the scope and magnitude of its online enrollment. There are just under 2100 students enrolled in online programs. 88% of all IU East students take at least one class online, and 71% pursue fully online programs. There are now more than 3100 total students at IU East pursuing more than 60 degree options. IU East is Wayne County’s 8^th largest employer with 350 people working there.

ALLEGED 67-YEAR-OLD METH DEALER JAILED

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Dublin, IN)--A 67-year-old western Wayne County resident is now facing a high-level felony after her arrest Monday night. Sheryl Mason was arrested Monday night and charged with dealing methamphetamine. Details of what led to her arrest have not yet been released. Online court records show no Wayne County criminal history, but Mason did plead guilty last year in Henry County in a case involving possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

UNEMPLOYMENT DROPS IN INDIANA AREA COUNTIES

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Indianapolis, IN)--Every Indiana county in the Whitewater Valley saw a decrease in its unemployment rate when new numbers were released by the state Monday. That includes Wayne County, which dropped from 4.5 to 4.1%. Union County has the area’s lowest unemployment rate at 2.8%, while Fayette County has the highest at 4.4%.

CENTERVILLE POLICE ISSUE LOCAL SCAM WARNING

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--A familiar scam is rearing its ugly head again in Centerville. According to Centerville police on Monday, local residents are being called by someone claiming to be a deputy from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. That person tells the intended victim that there is a warrant for their arrest and they must pay a bond immediately over the phone. Centerville police said Monday that neither they nor any other legitimate law enforcement agency would operate in that manner and that calls should be reported immediately.

FIRST ELEMENT OF 6MAIN RISES

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The first element of the new 6Main apartments is now visible. That’s the name given what will be more than 150 apartment units at the site of the former Elder-Beerman building at 6^th and East Main in Richmond. Passers-by will now see a new elevator shaft rising above the construction area. When it’s complete, the building will include not only the much-needed housing, but will also feature 3000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor. There will also be a café, a pool, and a fitness center. The average rent is expected to be $1350 monthly. One goal of the project is to fill the living space with 70% young professionals, with at least half of those coming from outside of Richmond.

CLEANING, DISINFECTING TAKE PLACE TO PREVENT HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE SPREAD

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Cleaning and disinfection took place over the weekend at Fayette County schools after an outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease. That disease typically affects children under the age of five, but it can occur at any age. It’s a contagious viral illness with symptoms that include fever, sore throat, and mouth sores. Fayette County schools has reported multiple cases of the ailment.

ALLEGED COCAINE, METH DEALER JAILED

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An alleged drug dealer was taken into custody in Richmond on Saturday morning. He has already bonded out and was free Monday. 37-year-old Gregory Napier was arrested on East Main Street. Charges include dealing cocaine and methamphetamine, criminal recklessness, and resisting law enforcement. Details of what led to Napier’s arrest have not been released.

MAN CHARGED AFTER SHOTS FIRED IN CENTERVILLE

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--An argument escalated into a shots fired incident in Centerville Thursday morning. It happened in the area of Plum and 4^th Streets. A caller to 911 reported hearing a shot outside and then sheltering inside a home with several children. While on the phone, a dispatcher heard a second shot. Police arrived and arrested 24-year-old Justin Cromwell. He’s now charged with two counts of criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon. No injuries were reported.

HEALTH CLINIC TO MOVE TO NEW BUILDING ON WEST MAIN

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A health clinic on Thursday announced plans to move into a new facility on Richmond’s west side. Well Care Community Health now operates at a facility on East Main in Richmond across from the Wayne County Jail. At some point early next year, they’ll move into a new facility in the 2200 block of West Main. Administrators said in the release that the new location will offer expanded clinical space, enhanced technology capabilities, and improved accessibility features.

FIRE CONTAINED AT MANUFACTURING PLANT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There was a fire at a Richmond manufacturer Thursday night. It broke out at around 7:30 Thursday night at the Madison-Kipp plant in the 1600 block of Rich Road. Employees first reported a fire inside the building that was being fed by a natural gas line and evacuated. Battalion Chief Chris Chappel describes what happened when firefighters arrived: "Crews made entry, found it quickly, and was able to get the gas shut off to that particular line. After that, there really wasn't a lot of problems. There was just a minimal amount of fire remaining." The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

ENTIRE AREA NOW CLASSIFIED AS BEING IN MODERATE DROUGHT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--A new U.S. Drought map was issued Thursday by the Department of Agriculture, and it shows that the entire Whitewater Valley is now officially in a moderate drought. Also Thursday, Preble County joined other area counties in issuing a burn ban. It had already been in effect for Union, Fayette, and Franklin County. According to the National Weather Service, Richmond has had less than 3/10 of an inch of rain this month and less than an inch over the last five weeks.

ALLEGED DRUG DEALER ARRESTED AT GENESIS APARTMENTS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An alleged drug dealer was taken into custody early Friday morning at a Richmond apartment complex. 46-year-old Sheila Maxwell was arrested at her home in the Genesis Apartment complex. She faces two counts of dealing cocaine or other narcotic drugs. Maxwell was arrested for the same thing back in 2006 and was sentenced to ten years in prison. Details of what led to Friday morning’s arrest had not yet been released as of 6 a.m. Friday.

MAN WITH FOUR INTIMIDATION CASES IN THREE YEARS JAILED AGAIN

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who has already been tagged by the state as a serious violent felon is facing a new round of charges after an incident Thursday night. It began with the report of up to eight people walking around with baseball bats in in the area of the 200 block of North 13^th. Officers arrested 38-year-old Odell Oliver and charged him with burglary and battery. Oliver has had four different cases of felony intimidation in the last three years, including one which is still active with a jury trial scheduled for December.

I-70 / U.S. 40 TO INCLUDE TWO ROUNDABOUTS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--INDOT has released a more detailed drawing of how the revamped interchange will look at the intersection of I-70 and U.S. 40 at the state line. INDOT initially said that the new interchange, which is part of the Revive I-70 project, would include a roundabout. The new drawings, though, indicate there will actually be two roundabouts. One will be located on each side of the interstate. Vehicles either entering or exiting I-70 will have to navigate at least one of those roundabouts. But, if you’re passing straight through on U.S. 40 without getting onto I-70, you’ll have to work your way through two roundabouts. No specific date for completion has been set.

BUTTIGIEG TO VISIT EARLHAM COLLEGE

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A leader of the Democratic party and a potential 2028 presidential candidate will be in Richmond early next year. Pete Buttigieg will be in the city in mid-February of next year to address students at Earlham College as part of Earlham’s Presidential Lecture Series. Buttigieg is the former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and, before that, mayor of South Bend. Admission information regarding his appearance will be coming later.

STUDY TO BEGIN REGARDING MASSIVE NW 5th CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--When visitors enter Richmond from the west, the generally do it by exiting I-70 onto what becomes North West 5^th Street. For the last 14 years, mostly informal discussion has taken place about how to improve that entry into the city. Tuesday, those discussions ramped up in a meeting of the Richmond Redevelopment Commission. Beth Fields talked about the scope of the project, which would result in improvements all the way from the interstate to National Road West. "It's a really large project. It's going to be a very expensive project. It's probably going to be a 10-15 year project from start to finish," Fields explained. The Redevelopment Commission on Tuesday approved funding a preliminary study on the project by a central Indiana firm that should be complete by the spring of next year. The study would include how businesses along North West 5^th would be affected.

CITY TO STUDY CONNECTED DEPOT INTERSECTION TO CARDINAL GREENWAY

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The city of Richmond is looking at how it can improve an intersection in the Depot District. It’s the intersection where North D, North 6^th and 7^th and Fort Wayne Avenue all come together. That’s the intersection with a stop light near Ullery’s Ice Cream and Little Sheba’s. At a meeting of the Richmond Redevelopment Commission Tuesday, a couple of reasons for changes were noted. One is a desire to better connect the Depot District to the Cardinal Greenway. "Connecting to the Cardinal Greenway was a great idea. It was not one that was originally part of the project, but it makes sense to connect that roughly quarter of a mile to access the great effort you're putting into the downtown," said a consultant with a firm conducting a study. Another reason for the intersection improvement is to make it ADA compliant. A study is expected to take about six months to complete.

APPEAL DENIED FOR TEEN INVOLVED IN MURDER

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Centerville, IN)--2054 is now the projected release date from prison now that the appeal of a teen involved in a Centerville murder has been denied. Lucas Benkert, who is now 20 years old, was present in the 2020 murder of James Burkhart. Burkhart’s son, who is also named James, was ultimately convicted of the shooting death. But, Benkert, who was only 15 years old at the time, initially took the blame. He was captured in Columbus following a high-speed chase there. In the formal appeal, Benkert claimed that there was insufficient evidence to support his conviction. But, an appellate court disagreed this week and upheld the sentence.

MAKE MY MOVE PROGRAM EXPANDS TO INCLUDE JOB-SEEKERS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Wayne County is expanding its Make My Move program. That’s the program aimed at recruiting people across the country who work remotely to move to Wayne County to take advantage of its low cost of living. 30 of those people and their families have already come to Wayne County. Now, a goal has been set of attracting 20 more. The EDC oversees the program and is planning to expand applicant eligibility to job seekers in addition to remote workers.

RICHMOND RANKS AMONG CHEAPEST PLACES NATIONALLY TO LIVE

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond is now the fifth least expensive community in which to live in the entire country. That’s according to the Council for Community and Economic Research, which puts out the national rankings four times per year. Six categories are measured, including the cost of housing, utilities, groceries, and health care. Richmond residents, on average, will pay only 80 cents on the dollar for those elements as measured against the national average.

TRI VILLAGE TOPS AREA SCHOOLS IN OHIO SCHOOL REPORT CARDS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(New Madison, OH)--Ohio school report cards are out. Those ratings come out annually and measure the performance of each school based on a variety of factors including performance on standardized testing, graduation rates, and workforce readiness. In our area, Tri Village had the highest ratings with four and a half out of five stars. Eaton had four stars. Tri County North, Twin Valley South, and National Trail all had three and a half stars, and Preble Shawnee had a three-star rating.

MAN HELD WITHOUT BOND AFTER ALLEGEDLY POINTING FIREARM

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--One person remained in jail without bond Tuesday morning following a Sunday night incident north of Williamsburg. 61-year-old George Altizer now faces charges that include criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon and pointing a firearm. Details of what Altizer is alleged to have done have not been released. Online court documents reveal no significant criminal history.

MAN JAILED FOR METH POSSESSION, OWI ENDANGEMENT

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--A man has been accused of driving while intoxicated causing endangerment and driving with a controlled substance in his body at around the time school buses were running Monday morning. 31-year-old Skylar Fletcher was stopped yesterday morning on U.S. 40 near Washington Road. During the stop, officers also allegedly recovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He pled guilty to nearly identical charges four years ago and spent about three months in jail. The amount of drugs recovered Monday has not been released.

MAN JAILED ON CHILD PORN-RELATED CHARGES HELD ON $50,000 CASH BOND

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--The Fountain City man arrested for exposing himself to children twice in the last month in public places is now not likely going anywhere soon. Wendell Woodall now faces much more serious charges after having been arrested Friday on 12 counts of possession of child sex abuse material and child solicitation. Unlike following his previous two arrests, Woodall now is being held on a $50,000 cash bond. In the most recent arrest, RPD investigators called Woodall’s conduct, quote, monstrous and predatory, unquote. The new arrest came after a search warrant for his electronic devices from his second arrest. Woodall is due in court for an initial hearing next week.

AREA COUNTIES ISSUE BURN BANS

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--With dry conditions becoming drier and no significant rain in the immediate forecast, Whitewater Valley counties will likely employ burn bans in the coming days. Union County has already done it, and so has Franklin County. Commissioners in both counties issued burn bans on Saturday that will remain in place until further notice. Union County, along with Fayette , Franklin, and the southern half of Preble County were declared to be in a moderate drought late last week by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB NAMES NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Posted About Seven Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County has a new Chief Operating Officer. She’s Rebeckah Hester. Hester comes to the Boys & Girls Club after having spent significant time as the Director of Campus Life at IU East. She will oversee day-to-day operations and focus on program expansion, innovation, and membership growth. The club currently serves nearly 2000 area kids in six different locations.

PARTS OF WHITEWATER VALLEY NOW IN MODERATE DROUGHT

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--A new drought map was released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Thursday, and it shows that parts of the Whitewater Valley are officially in a moderate drought. Nearly all of Union and Fayette County, along with the southern half of Preble County and nearly all of Butler County, are included in the drought. The rest of the Whitewater Valley is now classified as abnormally dry. In the last month, Richmond has had less that one tenth of one inch of rain.

STATE ROAD 44 TO CLOSE FOR A MONTH

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--Traveling between Liberty and Connersville will soon be a lot less convenient. The Indiana Department of Transportation has announced that State Road 44 will be closing for a month at Industrial Park Road. That’s just west of Liberty. The closure is set to go into effect two weeks from Friday and last for about a month. It’s being done to facilitate a box culvert replacement.

TRIBUTE ARRIVES IN RICHMOND

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Thursday morning is the public’s first chance to see the new Global War on Terror Traveling Tribute. The memorial rolled into Richmond on Wednesday in an escorted trip from the state line to Veteran’s Memorial Park in the gorge. The exhibit is on display for the first time ever and is intended to stand as a reminder of the service and sacrifice of those connected to the events of 24 years ago Thursday. It will be on display through the weekend.

FEDERAL LAWSUIT DROPPED AGAINST MEMBER OF LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--A federal lawsuit involving a member of the Cambridge City Police Department is being dismissed. The case was originally filed in Wayne County three years ago and moved to a federal court. In the lawsuit, Bradley Harris made numerous allegations involving the destruction of evidence that he claims would have proved his innocence in a child molesting case. A federal magistrate now indicates that the matter has been resolved. Harris filed numerous lawsuits while he was an inmate at the New Castle Correctional Facility. He has at least two lawsuits still pending.

ELDERLY WOMAN KILLED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY CRASH

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Franklin County, IN)--An elderly Laurel resident has been killed in a Franklin County crash. It happened at around 5:15 Wednesday afternoon that the intersection of State Road 1 and Rhein Road. That’s about halfway between Blooming Grove and Brookville. Investigators say that 81-year-old Rosa Banks was turning onto the highway when her car was struck broadside by a southbound pickup. Banks was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in her vehicle sustained minor injuries. The driver of the pickup was not hurt.

MAN ACCUSED OF BATTERING BOY SURRENDERS

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Centerville man wanted in a severe case of child abuse turned himself into jail Wednesday. 26-year-old Devon Eastman allegedly battered his girlfriend’s son nearly a year ago. Eastman has a separate criminal case in Muncie, where he allegedly battered a pregnant woman. Eastman on Wednesday posted a $25,000 bond and was released from jail.

HEALTH OFFICER: FIVE WAYNE COUNTY BABIES HAVE DIED FROM UNSAFE SLEEP

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Infant mortality was a topic when the Wayne County Health Board met Tuesday. Since the beginning of last year, Wayne County has ranked roughly in the middle of the pack of Indiana counties for infant mortality. But, Wayne County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bales said Tuesday that many of those deaths are preventable. "There have been 13 total infant deaths in Wayne County in that time period, of which five were attributed to unsafe sleep," Bales said. Here’s what that means: "Unsafe sleep is defined as any kind of cosleeping. This could be choosing to cosleep in a bed with your infant. Or, perhaps it's accidental - you fall asleep on the couch," Bales explained. The health department can provide other safe sleep tips.

TRIBUTE TO ROLL INTO RICHMOND WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A new traveling memorial tribute rolls into Richmond Wednesday night. It’s the Global War on Terror Tribute. Before it’s unveiled nationally for the first time Thursday, there will be a processional Wednesday night. It will begin at 6 o’clock at the state line on U.S. 40 and work its way west on East Main and then on North A to the Veterans Memorial Park in the gorge. The public is being invited to line the procession route.

DRY CONDITIONS CONTRIBUTE TO THREE FIRES

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Conditions across the Whitewater Valley are getting drier by the day, and there were three fires Tuesday associated with dry conditions. There was a mulch fire in the 1500 block of East Main in Richmond, another one in the 4400 block of National Road East, and a grass fire on Arba Pike. Since August 14, Richmond has officially had only 5/100 of rain. On Wednesday, the entire Whitewater Valley is classified as abnormally dry, but a new drought map comes out Thursday.

WARRANT ISSUED FOR MAN ACCUSED IN NEGLECT CASE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An arrest warrant was issued Tuesday for a Richmond man who was allegedly involved in a horrible case of child neglect. Daryl Grubbs is now being sought for his alleged role in the case of neglect after a 19-year-old disabled girl was found dead on South 10^th in July. Two teenage boys were found in deplorable conditions inside the house, which included a foot of trash on the floor and animal waste throughout. Also Tuesday, an initial hearing was set for the children’s mother. Liza Lindsay is set to make her first appearance in court on the 24^th.

MOTORCYCLE RIDER KILLED ON I-70

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Preble County, OH)--There was a fatal motorcycle crash on I-70 late Monday afternoon. It happened on westbound 70 at around 5:45 very near the Ohio Arch in Preble County. Very few details have been released so far, but officials have confirmed that a semi and a motorcycle collided just before entering the construction zone. The victim’s identity has not been released. There’s no word on what caused that accident and whether or not slowed traffic for construction was a factor, but scanner traffic indicated that the motorcycle rider drove into the back of the semi. This is the third fatal motorcycle accident in the Whitewater Valley in the last two weeks.

$50,000 POWERBALL TICKET SOLD IN RICHMOND

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s string of lottery luck has continued. No one from the area won the Powerball’s top prize last Saturday, when the jackpot was $1.8 billion, but there was a ticket sold in Richmond that is now worth a nice chunk of change. Someone bought a ticket from Rose City Quik Pix on Industries Road that matched enough numbers to make that ticket worth $50,000. Once in 1998 and again in 2007, winning Powerball tickets were sold in Richmond that were each worth over $300 million. No one from our area bought the ticket in either case.

CHILD RAPIST SENTENCED TO LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton,, OH)--A Preble County child rapist was sentenced Monday to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Back in December of last year, deputies caught John Williams in the act of raping a girl under the age of ten. Williams quickly fled out of the home and escaped, but was caught two days later hiding in a shed. Last month, Williams was convicted. Yesterday, a separate hearing was held to determine if he was a sexually violent predator. In Ohio, that means life without parole. And that’s the determination that was made. Here’s Prosecutor Eric Marit afterward: Prison for the rest of his life is exactly where he needs to be. We're very happy with the resolution." Williams, who is 42, will also have to register as a sex offender for life, but that’s essentially irrelevant because he will never see the light of day again.

WOMAN CHARGED WITH NEGLECT APPEARS IN COURT OFFICE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A woman facing charges in an unbelievable case of neglect appeared in a Wayne County court office on Friday afternoon. 41-year-old Liza Lindsay has been charged with neglect of a dependent after her 19-year-old disabled daughter was found dead in July in a home on South 10^th in Richmond. The teen was found dead in what was described as a type of indoor stall. Other conditions inside the home, as described in the affidavit, are difficult to read. Trash and pet waste was a foot deep. Lindsay’s two sons, who are ages 13 and 15, told investigators they couldn’t remember the last time they’d had a decent meal. Lindsay was told Friday that she would be notified by mail of an initial hearing. The two surviving boys were placed with their grandparents. Lindsay’s boyfriend, Daryl Grubbs, faces similar charges.

LIBERTY TOWN HALL, POLICE DEPARTMENT COMPLETES MOVE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Liberty, IN)--Wednesday afternoon, the Liberty Police Department announced that they have completed their move. They say the new location for both the Police Department and Town Hall is fully operational. The new home is located at 101 Brownsville Avenue across from Pizza King and the Bath State Bank. The entrance to the police department is located on the north side of the building.

TEEN STILL MISSING MONDAY MORNING

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--County officials say that a young Fountain City resident was still missing Monday morning. On Friday, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department released information about 17-year-old Scott Barrows Junior. That search has now gone across the country and has been picked up by the National Center for the Missing and Endangered. Scott was last seen walking down a driveway last Tuesday. He’s six feet tall, 180 pounds, with shoulder-length auburn hair. Anyone with any information is asked to call the sheriff’s department or Fountain City police.

227 REOPENS AFTER MONTHS OF CLOSURE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--The main route between Richmond and Boston has reopened after having been closed for several months. State Road 227 had been closed since spring to allow for the replacement of a bridge over railroad tracks near where Garrison Elementary once stood. While 227 has reopened, two other areas highways will be closing. Both State Road 44 between Liberty and Connersville and U.S. 40 just west of U.S. 127 in Preble County will be closing in the coming days.

WELLS NAMED PERMANENT REID CEO

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Reid Health’s Acting President and CEO has been named the health organization’s permanent leader. Reid announced Thursday that Ben Wells will officially take over for Craig Kinyon, who requested an indefinite leave of absence early this year. Reid Board Chair Mark Harrington called Wells the ideal candidate and added that he has done an outstanding job over the last six months. Wells joined Reid as the chief financial officer a little more than a year ago. He becomes only Reid’s eighth leader in its 120-year history.

RCS FILES RESPONSE IN BULLYING LAWSUIT

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--On the last day it could, Richmond Community Schools filed its answer to a bullying lawsuit. Both the school and the city are being sued based on allegations that a Dennis Middle School student was bullied for two years in incidents which included physical injuries and sexual assault. In the 66-point response, which was filed Thursday, RCS admits that they addressed certain behavioral incidents involving that student, but denies that any actual bullying occurred. The school district also Thursday filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. No future hearing dates appear in online court documents.

FORMER BAND DIRECTOR CONSIDERS PLEA OFFERING

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--The former Eaton Community School band director is now considering a plea deal. Paul Bingle faces a total of eight counts involving multiple felonies after being accused of having an inappropriate relationship with at least one female Eaton student. Court documents filed Thursday indicate that Bingle has been offered a plea deal and that he and his attorneys are considering whether or not to accept it. If the case goes to trial, that trial would begin late next month. Details of the plea offer have not been released. Bingle has been in jail since his arrest a month and a half ago.

BOY STRUCK WHILE RIDING BICYCLE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(New Madison, OH)--A child was flown to Children’s Hospital in Dayton Thursday after riding his bicycle into a moving SUV in New Madison. It happened at the intersection of North Main and Fairview Avenue. Investigators say 10-year-old Liam Napier rode his bike through a stop sign and collided with the driver’s side of the SUV. His condition Friday morning has not been released.

MAN JAILED FOR SECOND TIME IN A WEEK AFTER ALLEGEDLY EXPOSING HIMSELF

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--For the second time in a week, a Fountain City man has been jailed after allegedly exposing himself to a young child in a public retail store. Wendell Woodall is charged again with indecent exposure and performing sexual conduct in the presence of a minor. His jailing Wednesday stems from an incident that occurred August 18 at the Five Below store. Last week, he was jailed for allegedly doing the same thing at Richmond’s Meijer. Woodall remained in the Wayne County Jail Thursday morning on a $15,000 bond.

MAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The recent string of serious or fatal motorcycle crashes that have happened recently across the Whitewater Valley continue in Richmond Wednesday. According to scanner traffic, a motorcycle rider was initially unresponsive as a result of a crash in the 1400 block of South 13^th. The victim was treated at the scene and then flown to Miami Valley Hospital. His identity and condition had not been released by 6 o'clock Thursday morning.

INITIAL HEARING WAIVED FOR ALLEGED CAMPING WORLD EMBEZZLER

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An initial hearing for a former Camping World employee that was to have taken place Thursday has been waived and cancelled. Carla Woodward-Turcheck is accused of stealing nearly $60,000 when she worked in accounting for Camping World by altering documents. Her arrest came late last month as the result of a six-month investigation. Woodward-Turcheck allegedly wrote checks to herself and then used those funds to make her mortgage payments. She’s now due to go on trial in December and is free on bond.

COMMON COUNCIL TABLES SEWER RATE VOTE FOR SECOND TIME

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--For the second time in as many meetings, Richmond Common Council on Tuesday night tabled a vote a proposed sewer rate increase. The issue was still on public hearing. Wayne County Commissioner Jeff Plasterer expressed support to help expand the Midwest Industrial Park. "We need additional capacity, which, hopefully, will drive additional revenue through tax increment financing," Plasterer said. Council member Gary Turner touched on the justification of previous increases, which have supported $105 million in improvements. "The reasons that we had those projects were primarily to comply with the EPA or face lawsuits," Turner explained. Several southside residents Tuesday night expressed concern over drainage issues. Tuesday night’s decision to table the issue for further study was unanimous. No time frame was discussed for the proposed increase to go back before council.

COUNCIL APPROVES BRADY LIST RESOLUTION

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council on Tuesday night addressed a resolution dealing with what’s commonly referred to as the Brady List. That list deals with officer integrity and the ability to testify in court. RPD’s Adam Blanton was placed on that list last year and sued Prosecutor Mike Shipman. The lawsuit was dismissed. The resolution would ask the Police Merit Commission, which has the authority to discipline officers, to review each case involving the Brady List. Council member Rick Goss supported the resolution. "My concern is for the community's confidence in the integrity of the Richmond Police Department," Goss said. His colleague, Anne Taylor, opposed it. "This council was not created to pursue punitive actions against individuals or departments through a symbolic vote that serves no practical purpose," Taylor said. The resolution passed 7-0 with Taylor and Jerry Purcell abstaining.

DETAILS OF FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH RELEASED

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Williamsburg, IN)--The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department later Tuesday released more details on the fatal motorcycle accident in Williamsburg that Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported Tuesday morning. They say that late Monday afternoon, a couple from northern Illinois on a motorcycle on U.S. 35 was riding behind a semi pulling a flatbed trailer. When that truck, driven by Joseph Riggs of Economy, tried to turn onto Sycamore Street, the motorcycle attempted to pass and struck the trailer. The female rider was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation remains open pending toxicology results.

VICTIM IN FATAL GOLF CART CRASH IDENTIFIED AS FOUR-YEAR-OLD

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--On Tuesday, Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported that a golf cart accident in Darke County over the Labor Day weekend resulted in the fatality of a juvenile. Tuesday night, the Darke County Sheriff’s Department disclosed how young the occupants were. The driver of the golf cart on Converse Road near Union City was only 13 years old. One female passenger was only 10. The two youngest were ages 5 and 4. The golf cart veered off the side of the road and overturned. The four-year-old is the child that did not survive. She was identified as Sayla Wray.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT APPEARS TO HAVE TURNED FATAL

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Williamsburg, IN)--There was an accident involving a motorcycle in Williamsburg Monday night, and the initial indication is that one person involved did not survive. It happened at around 6 o’clock Monday night at the intersection of U.S. 35 and Sycamore Street. Scanner traffic indicated that CPR was being attempted on a victim at the scene and that a medical helicopter had been requested, but was later cancelled. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department had not confirmed by 5:30 a.m. Tuesday that the accident resulted in a fatality. More details were expected later Tuesday.

COUNCIL TO AGAIN ADDRESS SEWER RATE INCREASE

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A proposed sewer rate increase goes back before Richmond Common Council when it meets Tuesday night. A couple of weeks ago, a lengthy discussion which included public comment ended with this. "It looks like we still have a lot of unanswered questions," said Council President Larry Parker. Those questions include numerous elements of previous rate increases. Under the ordinance, stormwater bills would go from an average of six dollars now to $9.40 in four years. Sewer bills would go from $55 to nearly $68 per month in the same time period. The issue remains on second reading, which means public comment will still be taken. Tuesday night’s meeting begins at 7. As always, you can catch in live on WCTV.

NO ARRESTS MADE YET IN APARTMENT SHOOTING

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It does not appear on Tuesday morning that there had been any book-ins into the Wayne County Jail over the long weekend as a result of a shooting that occurred early Saturday morning in an apartment complex occupied by numerous IU East students. It happened at the Richmond Flats Apartments, which is near Meijer. One person had been shot and was later flown to a Level One trauma center. Investigators say that more than 50 people were present during the shooting, but no one was cooperative during the initial investigation. Several vehicles were also struck by gunfire. The name of the victim and his or her condition Tuesday morning had not been released.

MAN DIES UNDER OVERTURNED LAWNMOWER

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--There was a fatal accident involving a lawnmower in Darke County Monday afternoon. Investigators say that 67-year-old Michael Roth was on the riding mower on Coletown-Lightsville Road east of Union City. The mower overturned after sliding on a side ditch and pinned Roth underneath. He was pronounced dead at the scene. It’s unknown how long Roth had been trapped under the lawnmower before being located.

JUVENILE KILLED IN GOLF CART ACCIDENT

Posted About Eight Months Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--Investigators have not yet released the age or name of a juvenile who was killed in a golf cart accident in Darke County on Saturday. Four juveniles were riding the golf cart on Converse Road in a rural area south of Union City. It went off the side of the road and overturned. Three of the juveniles were treated at the scene and released to their parents, but the fourth was Careflighted to Dayton Children’s Hospital and later died. The incident remains under investigation.

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