Kicks 96 Local News

MONROE CENTRAL MOURNS LOSS OF STUDENT

Posted Today At 6:19am by Jeff Lane

(Parker City, IN)--The Monroe Central school family is mourning the loss of one of their students. Charli Siekmann, who was a Monroe Central junior and member of the girls golf team, died on Tuesday. Charli has been involved in a serious accident a week ago and had been in intensive neurocritical care since. Since that accident, the Monroe Central family had been wearing Charli’s favorite color, yellow, as a symbol of hope. Services for Charli Siekmann were pending Thursday morning.

FATHER, SON JAILED IN NORTH 19th INCIDENT

Posted Today At 6:17am by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond father and son were taken into custody early Wednesday morning in an incident that involved the city’s SWAT unit near North 19^th and East Main Street. 45-year-old James Jones Senior was wanted for failing to appear in a drug case. When officers went to Jones’ North 19^th Street home Wednesday, they found Jones along with his son, who shares his name. Investigators also found an undisclosed quantity of cocaine or other narcotic drugs and drug paraphernalia. Jones Senior is now being held without bond.

Richmond Common Council Approves Forgivable Loan Financing

Posted Yesterday At 8:45am

The Richmond Common Council voted 7-to-2 Monday night to approve a forgivable loan financing structure for infrastructure at the planned Smith Hill housing development.

The move unlocks a 4.3-million-dollar READI 2.0 state grant. The vote followed heated debate. Some council members voiced frustration over shifting plans and the potential inclusion of rental townhomes. But representatives from Reid Health and the Wayne County Chamber urged approval, warning that Richmond desperately needs modern market-rate housing to recruit and retain workers—and that stalling would cost the community millions in state funding.

City of Richmond Weighing Appeal of Fire Liability Decision

Posted Yesterday At 8:42am

The City of Richmond is weighing an appeal after a federal jury found the city partially liable for the 2023 industrial fire.

During Monday night’s Richmond Common Council meeting, the Mayor’s office confirmed a jury assigned forty percent of the fault to the city. Officials noted disappointment with the verdict, highlighted a recent 2.1-million-dollar settlement resolving claims against site operators, and urged council members to coordinate with corporate counsel as they evaluate legal options and potential remediation for the former Hofco property.

Overnight Lane Restrictions This week

Posted Yesterday At 8:39am

Overnight work continues along the Revive I-70 corridor, and drivers will see fresh restrictions early this morning. INDOT says from 1 to 7 a.m., the State Road 1 ramps to and from eastbound I-70 are closed. Then tonight, starting at 8 p.m. and running through 7 a.m. Thursday, eastbound I-70 will be down to one lane between Brick Church Road and Centerville Road. The construction?zone speed limit remains 55 miles per hour, and drivers are urged to slow down and stay alert in work zones

Randolph County Man Charged with Child Molesting

Posted Yesterday At 8:36am

A Randolph County man faces up to 12 years in prison after being charged with child molesting.

Court documents show 36-year-old Jacob Anthony Beane was charged Monday in Randolph Circuit Court with a Level 4 felony. Authorities allege Beane improperly touched a juvenile girl in Lynn between 2019 and 2020, when the victim was under the age of 12.

Investigators say Beane denied all allegations during an interview last month, but deputies were unable to reach him following that meeting.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Beane, who also faces an unrelated domestic battery trial scheduled for February.

Girls Inc. of Wayne County Set to Return to South 8th Street Center; Community Open House Planned

Posted Tuesday Morning

Nearly seven months after severe weather threw a wrench into its daily operations, Girls Inc. of Wayne County is finally heading back home.
High winds and destructive storms on March 11th caused significant structural damage to the South 8th Street facility in Richmond, forcing the non-profit to pack up its after-school programs and operate out of temporary spaces for most of the year.
Following extensive repairs and interior renovations, the organization will officially welcome girls back to its home center on Monday, October 5th.
To celebrate the milestone, Girls Inc. is hosting a community open house on Thursday, October 8th, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Neighbors, community partners, and supporters are invited to tour the newly renovated space, meet the team, and celebrate their return. No RSVP is needed.

Voter Engagement Rally This Weekend in Richmond

Posted Tuesday Morning

Local civic groups are teaming up this weekend to help Wayne County voters prepare for Election Day.

The Richmond NAACP, Wayne County Indivisible, and the League of Women Voters will host a free, non-partisan Voter Engagement Rally this Saturday from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Richmond.

Organizer Jo Swanger says the goal is to make election prep approachable and fun before key deadlines hit.

Attendees can meet candidates across all party lines, verify voter registration, and get practical polling information ahead of the October 5th registration deadline. The family-friendly event also features music and free snacks.

Organizers urge residents to get involved, emphasizing that local elections directly shape daily community life.

Preble County 911 Experiences Outages

Posted Tuesday Morning

Preble County officials say 911 service was partially restored yesterday after a countywide outage caused by an equipment and network failure with BrightSpeed Phone Company. Lines were “in and out” through late morning yesterday as calls were rerouted to the Darke County Sheriff’s Office. Residents were urged to stay on the line if they dialed 911, with dispatchers confirming all calls would still be answered.

60-Year Old Arrested in Richmond on Stalking and Criminal Trespass Charges

Posted Tuesday Morning

A 60-year-old woman was taken into custody on outstanding warrants over the weekend in Wayne County, Indiana.

According to county booking records, Darla Ann Bailey was arrested on Saturday, September 19, 2026. She faces charges of Level 6 felony stalking violations alongside Class A misdemeanor criminal trespass.

Authorities booked Bailey into the Wayne County jail, where her bond for the stalking warrant was set at $10,000

Charlie Shaw – Longtime Owner of Winchester Speedway – Dies at Age 90

Posted Monday Morning

Winchester Speedway is mourning the loss of longtime owner and racing advocate Charlie Shaw, who died at age 90 . Shaw purchased the historic high?banked oval to preserve its legacy as the “World’s Fastest Half?Mile” and oversaw major grassroots events, including the Winchester 400, USAC sprint cars, and ARCA Menards Series races. Known for his hands?on leadership and commitment to Randolph County, Shaw modernized operations while protecting the track’s 1916 character. The Speedway remains under Shaw family ownership, with operations led by his longtime staff

Indiana Approves Mass SNAP Benefit Replacement for August Storm Victims

Posted Monday Morning

Indiana has been approved for mass SNAP benefit replacement after August’s severe storms caused widespread power outages. The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration will automatically replace benefits for eligible households across 19 counties, including Wayne County. Depending on when benefits were issued, households will receive between 15% and 60% of their monthly allotment. Households that received their benefits between August 5th and August 9th will receive the largest replacement, at 60% of their monthly allotment. About 36,500 households may qualify, with assistance totaling up to $10 million.

Federal Jury Rules City of Richmond and Trading Company Liable for 2023 Fire

Posted Monday Morning

A federal jury has ruled that the City of Richmond, Cornerstone Trading Group, and owner Seth Smith are liable for the massive 2023 warehouse fire that displaced roughly 2,000 residents . Jurors found the city and company negligent, saying they ignored long?standing safety concerns and failed to address hazardous conditions at the NW F Street plastic recycling site where the fire began on April 11th, 2023. The verdict assigns 60% responsibility to Cornerstone and Smith and 40% to the city. The next phase will determine damages for property owners and displaced residents included in the class action, which was certified last year.

SBA loans available to area flood victims

Posted Monday Morning

Following August’s severe storms and flooding, the Small Business Administration has boots on the ground across Wayne and surrounding counties offering low-interest disaster loans. SBA Public Affairs Specialist Elijah Neahouse visited Brewer Broadcasting with important details on the programs available.

Officials stress that sixty percent of SBA disaster loans go to homeowners and renters, not just businesses. Approved applicants receive no interest and no payments for the first full year. The physical damage filing deadline is October 25th. To apply or check eligibility, visit lending.sba.gov or call 1-800-659-2955.

ELDERLY WOMAN DIES IN DOG ATTACK

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--Details of a fatal dog attack in Darke County were released Thursday. Investigators say it happened earlier this week on Clapp Road, which is just off of U.S. 36 near the state line. 83-year-old Mildred Malott had walked next door when she was attacked by a group of three dogs that had been let outside by that home’s owners, Scott and Pennie Royer. Malott was pronounced dead at the scene. All three dogs, which were described as mixed-breed, were handed over to the Darke County dog warden. Under a new Ohio law, dog owners are responsible for the behavior of their dogs – even if it’s on their own property.

FAIR'S TREASURER ESCAPES JAIL TIME

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--The former treasurer of the Fayette County Free Fair Association has escaped jail time despite stealing more than $6000 from that organization last year. Makinsey Price was arrested following a state police investigation revealed that she wrote checks for herself, transferred money to herself, and kept cash that had come in through rodeo collections. A plea deal resulted in a year’s worth of probation to Price and an order to pay more than $6500 in restitution.

HEAVY RAIN BRINGS STREET FLOODING TO RICHMOND

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--It was nowhere near as bad as it was last month, but heavy rain Wednesday night created street flooding that forced some of those streets to be closed in Richmond. Most areas in and around Richmond received around three inches of rain in less than two hours. The Spring Grove area of Richmond received the most at 3 ¼ inches. Street flooding resulted on North E in the Depot District, on National Road East near Industrial Parkway, and at the entrance to Ravina Park, where firefighters responded for a water rescue. All streets were open Thursday morning.

PERMANENT DISPATCH AGREEMENT FINALIZED BETWEEN WAYNE, UNION COUNTY

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County leaders Wednesday night approved an interlocal agreement to permanently dispatch first responders in the town of Liberty and Union County. Barry Ritter talked about the benefits Wednesday night. "This interlocal agreement is a win-win for all three parties. It saves Union County and Liberty money annually, but it also compensates Wayne County above and beyond for the services that they're buying. Most importantly, it's going to enhance public safety in Union County," Ritter said. The agreement will be in place through at least the end of next year. Union County will pay $200,000. Liberty will pay $50,000.

MAN JAILED FOLLOWING STANDOFF

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There was a large police response during a standoff in the 100 block of North 17^th in Richmond Wednesday afternoon. Officers had gone to that area to arrest 30-year-old Dylan Spencer. Spencer had failed to show up for a hearing in a strangulation and domestic battery case. RPD took to social media to ask nearby residents to stay inside and for others to avoid the area. Spencer was eventually taken into custody. Because he failed to show up in court, he is now being held without bond.

RICHMOND AVENUE BRIDGE STILL AT LEAST A MONTH AWAY FROM REOPENING

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wednesday night, Wayne County elected officials got on update on the construction and reopening of the Richmond Avenue bridge. That bridge, which is a key connector of many parts of Richmond to the city’s northwest side, closed to traffic in early March. It was supposed to have reopened by now, but that’s not the case. The delay exists largely due to efforts to level out both sides of the bridge, and that’s been complicated by a gas main that runs through part of the bridge. County Engineer Brandon Sanders has the timeline. "We are looking at probably end of October / first of November for a completion date," Sanders said. The Bridge Avenue bridge is expected to open around the same time.

FEMA RETURNS TO CONNERSVILLE AS REPAIR COSTS CLIMB

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Beginning Thursday and running through Saturday, FEMA representatives will be back at the Baptist Temple in Connersville to assist flood victims. Meanwhile, Mayor Chad Frank continues to address the financial implications of major repairs that are needed at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. "I can't afford the $5 million bill we have right now. So we have to figure out how we have to do long-term planning to pay for all of this," Frank said. That plant is currently operational. The latest estimates in Connersville show that 280 residents were impacted by last month’s flooding.

SEMI ENFORCEMENT GREATLY REDUCES CRASHES IN I-70 CONSTRUCTION ZONE

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--The Indiana State Police recently conducted a traffic enforcement initiative targeting semis traveling through the construction zone of I-70 in Wayne and Henry County. And, according to the numbers they released Tuesday, it’s paid off big time. Before the enforcement effort, the area was averaging eight crashes per week. During the operation, there were three crashes total. The effort included 159 citations for semi drivers and 16 arrests.

EMERGENCY DEMOLITION ORDERED FOR PROBLEM RICHMOND DUPLEX

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Vacant and deteriorating houses have long been a problem in some Richmond neighborhoods. They’re a magnet for squatting and drug activity. on Tuesday, an emergency order was issued to have one of those homes demolished. That property is near 11^th and South B. This discussion about the duplex’s owner and the activities on the property is from Tuesday’s meeting of the Unsafe Building Committee: "I don't know for sure, but I believe Mr. Anderson knew that some of those people were in there. I don't know if they were supposed to be trading work for staying there, but there was no water or electric at one point." The committee voted unanimously for demolition.

(Note: The photo accompanying this story is not of the specific duplex. It is a photo of a home demolition that is in the public domain.)

MAN ACCUSED OF CHILD MOLESTATION RETURNED TO RICHMOND

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man accused of molesting an elementary-school age family member was returned to the Wayne County Jail from north central Indiana on Tuesday. Antonio Cosner is now being held on a $35,000 bond. So far, Cosner refused to speak with investigators about the allegations, but he has confirmed that he is HIV positive. An initial hearing for Cosner is pending.

ONE SEMI CRASH AFFECTS TWO PREBLE COUNTY HIGHWAYS

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Preble County, OH)--One semi crash Wednesday morning affected two highways in Preble County. It happened at the State Route 726 overpass of I-70. The crash occurred at 4 o’clock Wednesday morning on 726, but part of the wreckage ended up on the interstate. There’s no word yet on what caused the crash or the extent of the injuries suffered by the driver.

FCSD K-9 ZENO DIES

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--There’s some sad news from Fayette County. Zeno, who was a K9 deputy with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, has died. The department said that Zeno had recently retired and fallen into poor health but had assisted in multiple apprehensions over the years. Zeno was handled by Sergeant McMurry. A formal service for Zeno is pending.

WOMAN CHARGED WITH KILLING LYNN TOWN MARSHAL PLEADS NOT GUILTY

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Winchester, IN)--The woman charged with striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher in July made her first appearance in court Monday. Maci Atkinson answered several basic questions from the judge. Then came a plea through her public defender to the judge of not guilty. No specifics of the case were addressed in the hearing, which lasted only five minutes. Atkinson was ordered to continue to be held without bond until a bond hearing, which will take place on the 28^th. A trial date was set for late January of next year, although that will almost certainly be pushed back.

RAMP FROM NORTHBOUND WILLIAMSBURG PIKE TO WESTBOUND I-70 TO REOPEN

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Beginning Wednesday, it will be a lot easier to head west on I-70 from many parts of Richmond. That’s because the ramp from northbound Williamsburg Pike to westbound I-70 is due to reopen. But, the opening comes with another closure. INDOT said Monday that the ramp from northbound Williamsburg Pike to eastbound 70 will close Wednesday and is expected to remain closed until mid-November.

FESTIVAL TO MARK BICENTENNIAL OF LEVI COFFIN'S ARRIVAL

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--Levi Coffin Days are coming up this weekend. It’s an annual event. But, this year, there’s a special element. "For 2026, the reason why it's special is because it will be the month that will recognize the 200th anniversary of Levi and Catherine Coffin's arrival from North Carolina and settling here in Fountain City." That’s from a video posted by the Levi and Catherine Coffin House State Historic Site. This is also the 60-year anniversary of the house becoming the first Indiana property to land on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY REACHES $2 MILLION SETTLEMENT IN MY WAY FIRE LAWSUIT

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A plastics recycling company and its owner have agreed to pay just over $2 million to the city of Richmond as a settlement that resolves part of the litigation stemming from the massive My Way Trading fire in April of 2023. Seth Smith has agreed to pay the city $20,000; the rest falls to Cornerstone Trading. That settlement resolves part of a class-action suit set to start Monday in the U.S. District Court for Southern Indiana. Legal filings describe Cornerstone as an inadequately capitalized company with severe financial distress.

MAN ACCUSED BRIBING CHILD WITH CHIPS, MOLESTATION

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man with HIV allegedly bribed a child with Takis chips before molesting that child. Antonio Cosner faces two counts of child molesting. According to court documents, police were called to a home on South 17^th to investigate two separate sex offenses. Although the relationship with the child was not specified, Cosner would often be alone with the child in a locked bedroom. Cosner refused to speak with investigators on the advice of his attorney. He was taken into custody over the weekend in the Kokomo area. There’s no indication yet of when he’s due in a Wayne County courtroom.

EDC PUTS OUT CALL FOR DEVELOPERS AND CONTRACTORS

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The EDC of Wayne County is putting out the call for developers and contractors who can help revitalize historic homes in the Starr District. The EDC issued a statement saying that they want to develop a pool of qualified people with skills and experience in home construction, rehabilitation, and historic preservation. The Starr District is currently listed on Indiana Landmark’s list of most endangered places. Contractors have until two weeks from today to contact the EDC and provide a statement of qualifications.

WANTED MAN FACES NEW METH-DEALING CHARGE

Posted About A Week Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who was already wanted for a probation violation now faces numerous new felony charges. 29-year-old Robert White was taken into custody Friday following a chase that ended in the 300 block of North 9^th. Investigators say White had a large quantity of methamphetamine in his possession when he was arrested. That led to a dealing charge. More meth was allegedly found in White’s possession as he was being booked into jail, and that led to a trafficking with an inmate charge.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE TAX GENERATING $90,000 MONTHLY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s food and beverage tax, which went into effect earlier this year, is now generating roughly $90,000 monthly. That’s according to Park Superintendent Denise Retz at Thursday’s Park Board meeting. Retz also said that one of the projects that tax is helping to fund, which is a large-scale renovation of the Glen Miller Park playground, begins on Monday. "I just want to make sure that the community realizes that, while the playground will be under construction - there will be a construction fence going up on Monday - that it is for a good reason," Retz said. The playground project is expected to be complete by spring.

U.S. 35 BRIDGE REOPENS; OTHER BRIDGE REOPENINGS DELAYED

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--There’s good news if you travel between Richmond and Muncie. The U.S. 35 bridge over the Whitewater River has now reopened. That bridge, which is located just east of the intersection of State Road 1 and 35, had been closed since February for a bridge deck replacement project. The new bridge deck is expected to extend the service life of the bridge by 75 years. In some other bridge news, the reconstruction project on Bridge Avenue in Richmond has been delayed. County officials said Wednesday that bridge is now not expected to reopen until late next month or early November. It was supposed to have been open by now. Several flooding events have caused the delay. It’s the same story for the Richmond Avenue bridge. That key connector between downtown and the city’s northwest side is now not expected to reopen until late next month.

OPENING OF IU EAST HIGH SCHOOL OBSERVED

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Ceremonies were held Wednesday to mark the opening of the new IU East High School. "We are very fortunate to have a partnership with the Indiana Microschool Collaborative. They are taking education out of the box," said Chancellor Dennis Rome. The new microschool model is designed to deliver personalized and future-focus education. And, Rome said it will likely also be good for IU East. "Chances are they'll want to remain here and complete their undergraduate degree here. And, they'll probably finish in a shorter amount of time than in a traditional classroom," Rome added. Students can earn as much as 52 college credits over four years.

THIRD MEASLES CASE CONFIRMED IN WAYNE COUNTY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Another case of measles has been confirmed in Wayne County. "We had confirmation this morning of our third positive measles case in Wayne County. We're still tracking that outbreak and running clinics to help prevent future outbreaks," said Dan Burk with the Wayne County Health Department. Burk did not indicate Wednesday how severe the cases have been. Burk said the cases are unvaccinated adults. Burk said he believed that there are other undiagnosed cases of measles that currently exist in Wayne County.

WITH FUNDING, CITY WOULD CONSTRUCT 30-BED HOMELESS FACILITY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council on Tuesday night heard on first reading an ordinance that would prevent other communities from sending their homeless residents to Richmond. Here’s Richmond Mayor Ron Oler: "The idea is protecting the resources you have in your community to help the unsheltered homeless and not be subject to other communities dropping people off into a homeless situation." If state funding becomes available, Oler said that the city would move forward with constructing a 30-unit facility at an as-yet-undisclosed location for the homeless. The ordinance would stop other cities from dropping their homeless off at a facility like that. One council member immediately expressed her reservations. "I am not in favor of this as it stands right now. I think that we might even be borderline on constitutional rights," said Anne Taylor. The ordinance was referred to the law department Tuesday night for further review.

SUSPECT IN MARSHAL'S DEATH: "I DESERVE LIFE IN PRISON"

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lynn, IN)--According to newly released court documents, Maci Atkinson told investigators that she deserves to spend the rest of her life in prison for striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher during a chase in July. After charges were filed Tuesday, she may get her wish. Atkinson now faces charges that include murder and aggravated battery. Other details of Tuesday’s affidavit indicate that fentanyl and meth were found in the vehicle Atkinson admitted to stealing. Atkinson said that she had intended to drive the stolen vehicle until it ran out of gas and then ditch it in a cornfield. Atkinson’s initial hearing on the murder charge is set for Monday.

6MAIN APARTMENTS NEARING COMPLETION

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The 6Main Apartments where Elder-Beerman once stood in downtown Richmond are nearing completion. Here’s Richmond Mayor Ron Oler on Tuesday night: "They started two weeks ago...final inspection on the fourth floor. The building commissioner has been through the fourth floor and they're slowly working their way down. They still have some time to finish the first floor, but things are moving along very well." The developer has asked for temporary occupancy of a leasing office that will open next month. One of the finishing touches is a plaque to recognize the downtown explosion of 1968. "We got the bronze plaque to memorialize the explosion. I met with them today about where they're going to locate that," Oler said. That plaque will list the names of all 41 victims.

2027 RICHMOND BUDGET HAS FIVE UNBALANCED FUNDS

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council on Tuesday night got its first look at next year’s budget. Here’s Beth Fields with a recap for Council: "Of the 28 funds that you have, 21 are balanced, two are structurally balanced, and there are five that are not balanced." Those five funds include local road and streets and unsafe building. Still, Mayor Ron Oler likes what he sees so far. "I think it's one of the best budgets I've seen in a long time. If we didn't have property tax cuts, we wouldn't be having the challenges we have and we'd have some surplus," Oler said. Council and department heads will continue to refine the budget in the coming weeks.

FEMA TO RETURN TO CAMBRIDGE CITY WEDNESDAY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--FEMA will be back in Cambridge City beginning Wednesday to help residents recover financially from flood damage. That federal agency will remain in western Wayne County through Saturday. Meanwhile, at a special meeting late last week, council agreed to pay just shy of a quarter of a million dollars for emergency water restoration. The town has now had dumpsters that were put into place to help residents dispose of ruined furniture and other debris removed due to ongoing costs. A total of about 700 tons of debris have been collected since last month’s flood.

COUNCIL TO ADDRESS HOMELESS RELOCATION ORDINANCE

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council meets Tuesday night and is set to address the issue of homelessness. An ordinance will be introduced that prohibits government officials or private citizens from transporting homeless people from another jurisdiction into the city of Richmond. The ordinance states that only local homeless people should benefit from limited local help that is available and that others brought into the area create health and public safety issues and put strain on resources. Tuesday night’s meeting gets underway at 7. As always, you can catch it live on WGTV.

TWO JAILED FOR CRIMINAL RECKLESSNESS

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Two young Richmond men were taken into custody late Saturday night. It happened near the intersection of State Road 227 and Smyrna Road. Both 19-year-old Joshua Duncan and 21-year-old David Tomlin are charged with criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon. That’s often the charge that’s applied when shots are fired. Details of exactly what happened are not yet available. Investigators say alcohol was a factor.

CONVICTED CHILD MOLESTER ARRESTED FOR METH POSSESSION

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A convicted Richmond child molester with a massive criminal record was arrested yet again Thursday. 41-year-old Shannon Maples was located near South 10^th and C. A judge had found probable cause in a meth possession case. Maples molested a 12-year-old girl a decade ago. Since then, he’s racked up nine other criminal cases – mostly involving drugs and theft. He has an initial hearing in a theft case this coming Tuesday.

RICHMOND MAN INDICTED; PLEADS NOT GUILTY BY REASON OF INSANITY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Springfield, OH)--The Richmond man accused of breaking into two Springfield homes and then attacking deputies last month has pled not guilty by reason of insanity. A Champaign County grand jury this week indicted 37-year-old Timothy Cole on 14 counts, including aggravated robbery. In court documents filed Thursday, Cole’s attorney said that he suffers from an acute mental disorder and does not understand the consequences of his actions. Cole is still behind bars in Springfield.

BODY FOUND IN STARR GENNETT AREA OF GORGE

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A body was discovered in the area of the Starr Gennett Building in the Whitewater Gorge in Richmond. In a release Wednesday, RPD said there is no suspicion of foul play, but that they are continuing to determine the circumstances surrounding the death. The person’s name has not been released. The release did not indicate how long the body may have been there before being discovered.

CONCERNS OVER ESTEB ROAD FIREWORKS ARISE AGAIN

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Two years ago, plans to build a fireworks storage facility on Esteb Road drew an outcry from residents in the area and contributed to the arrest of Wayne County Auditor Mark Hoelscher, who lives nearby. The county’s Board of Zoning Appeals rejected the proposal of property owner Gary Wolff early last year. But, on Wednesday, the issue came up again with Wayne County Commissioners. Commissioners discussed that approval had been granted for what they call a "barndominum" as a residence only, but they believe the owner still plans to store large quantities of fireworks on site. Here’s an exchange between County Attorney Ron Cross and the county’s Steve Higinbotham on Wednesday:

Cross: "We really need to know what the end plan is for the property."

Higinbotham: "And that's not the way that person operates."

Wolff has filed a petition for judicial review.

MAN ACCUSED OF PROSTITUTION IN GLEN MILLER PARK

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A man was arrested at Glen Miller Park in Richmond for prostitution and indecent exposure on Tuesday night. Richmond police announced the arrest Wednesday. Officers identified 60-year-old Paul Wilburn as the primary suspect. Both charges are misdemeanors. Wilburn was free Thursday morning on a minimal bond. Other details about what led to his arrest have not been released.

PERMIT REQUIRED FOR SOME CAMBRIDGE CITY FLOOD VICTIMS

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--The town of Cambridge City cautioned flood victims in western Wayne County on Wednesday that they may need a permit for rebuilding and remodeling. They say permit will be needed if the property is located in a designated flood plain or floodway. Cambridge City said that necessary inspections will begin in the coming days. The town is developing and training a task force to assist with conducting those inspections.

CHANGE OF PLEA HEARING SET FOR RICHMOND MAN CHARGED WITH TRYING TO MEET BOY FOR SEX

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Columbus, IN)--A change of plea hearing has now been set for a Richmond man who allegedly drove to Columbus, Indiana to have sex with what he thought was a young boy. According to court documents, 48-year-old Matthew Ciske was located in Columbus about a half of mile of where he was supposed to meet the boy, which was really a Bartholomew County investigator. Ciske and the "boy" had been engaging in sexually charged online conversations. Ciske told investigators that he is studying to become a chaplain. The change of plea hearing has been set for November.

FEMA INTAKE CENTERS OPENING IN WAYNE COUNTY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--FEMA intake centers are opening in Wayne County this week to assist victims from last month’s flood, including one that will open today. At 9 o’clock Wednesday morning, an intake center will open at Centerville Christian Church. On Thursday, another intake center opens at the Cambridge City Christian Church on Church Street. Both centers will be open until late Saturday afternoon. FEMA will ask for a photo ID, insurance information, photos of damage, and other information.

PICKUP SLAMS INTO PAPA JOE'S

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A pickup truck slammed into the Papa Joe’s building on Chester Boulevard in Richmond early Tuesday afternoon. More than half of the pickup ended up inside the building, leaving a gaping hole and significant structural damage. Here’s Battalion Chief Eric Holmes: "They ran the vehicle up inside the building. Nobody was really injured majorly." First responders were working to determine if it was a medical incident or other reason for the driver the hit the building. The driver’s identity has not been released.

CHARGES STILL PENDING IN CONNECTION WITH LYNN TOWN MARSHAL'S DEATH

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lynn, IN)--It’s now been more than a month since Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher was struck and killed during a pursuit. A check of online court documents indicate that the driver who is accused of striking and killing Fisher has not yet been formally charged with that crime. Maci Atkinson continues to be held in the Wayne County Jail without bond. Atkinson is being held there as a courtesy to Randolph County. She has four other criminal cases actively pending that are unrelated to the July 29 chase. Atkinson is next due in court for all of those cases in early November.

FEMA BEGINS TOURING CAMBRIDGE CITY HOMES

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--Indiana Governor Mike Braun was in the Whitewater Valley on Monday to check in on flood cleanup and repairs. Braun said he’s still seeing signs of neighbors helping neighbors. "And we should all take pride in that," Braun said. Meanwhile, FEMA has begun inspecting individual homes in Cambridge City. One of them belongs to Melissa Parker. "Yesterday, they came out to the house and did an inspection, but we're still waiting to hear back from them," Parker said. Connersville remains the closest FEMA intake center for residents of western Wayne County.

PEDESTRIAN KILLED BY ALLEGEDLY IMPAIRED DRIVER

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(West Alexandria, OH)--Details of a fatal weekend crash in West Alexandria were released Monday. It happened on Sunday on West Dayton Street, which is also U.S. 35. The driver of a pickup drove into a parked car, which then hit two pedestrians. 80-year-old Donna Tubesing was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband, Kenton, sustained serious injuries. Further investigation revealed that the driver of the vehicle was allegedly impaired at the time. David Shafer is currently only being held on drug possession charges. Additional charges are certain to be added.

TASER, SWAT TEAM USED TO APPREHEND WANTED MEN

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Officers took two different wanted Richmond men into custody in two different incidents Monday night, and neither one of them came quietly. The probations of both Cody Spitler and Thomas Vanderpool had been revoked. Vanderpool allegedly stabbed someone earlier this year. He allegedly drew a weapon when officers approached in the 800 block of South J in Richmond late Monday afternoon. He was Tased and taken into custody. A SWAT Team responded to the 1100 block of South B later Monday night when Spitler allegedly barricaded himself inside. He eventually surrendered. Spitler has had five different theft or burglary cases in the last two years.

BROOKVILLE MAN SENTENCED FOR SOLICITING YOUNG GIRL

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--A 36-year-old Brookville man will spend the next five years behind bars after trying to convince a 13-year-old girl to exchange sexual favors for tobacco products. Robert Marshall has pled guilty to child solicition and been sentenced to five years. Marshall will also have to register as a sex offender following his release. The case began earlier this year when Marshall began messaging the girl through her Facebook page and requested explicit photos. A forensic examination of Marshall’s phone confirmed the girl’s allegations.

CONNERSVILLE APPROVES WHEEL TAX

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Connersville City Council met Monday night for less than ten minutes and for one purpose…to approve a wheel tax for the city. Passage of a wheel tax is now necessary for municipalities to be eligible for Community Crossings grant money to maintain streets and roadways. Mayor Chad Frank on Monday night made one thing clear. "We're not changing the current city wheel tax. The rate stays exactly the same. The taxpayer will not see any difference," Frank said. Council unanimously approved passage.

Local News Archives for 2026-09

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