Saturday, April 10, 2010
Transcript Released After Plane Flight Aborted
WEST VIRGINIA....
According to a voice recorder transcript released this week by the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilots of US Airways Express Flight 2495 were engaged in an extended conversation about their dream sports cars while preparing for take off from Yeager Airport in January with 34 people on board. That flight was aborted when a warning sounded that the flaps were in the wrong position. The regional airliner stopped a short distance from a cliff when the jet ran off the runway and hit the EMAS area.
According to a voice recorder transcript released this week by the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilots of US Airways Express Flight 2495 were engaged in an extended conversation about their dream sports cars while preparing for take off from Yeager Airport in January with 34 people on board. That flight was aborted when a warning sounded that the flaps were in the wrong position. The regional airliner stopped a short distance from a cliff when the jet ran off the runway and hit the EMAS area.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:22 AM
Miners Found...House And Senate Plan Hearings
WEST VIRGINIA....
Both the House and Senate plan to hold hearings examining possible causes of the explosion that killed 29 workers at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch Mine. Monday's blast is the worst U.S. coal mining disaster since a 1970 explosion killed 38 in Hyden, Kentucky. The discovery of the final four bodies on Friday ended days of searches by rescue crews that repeatedly battled poisonous gases and smoke inside the mine. Twenty-eight of the dead were Massey employees, and one was a contract worker. Kevin Stricklin, coal administrator for the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, says smoke and the conditions were so dire with dust after the blast that rescuers didn't realize until late Friday they had walked past the bodies of the four missing miners on the first day without seeing them. Once the bodies are recovered, MSHA and West Virginia regulators plan a joint investigation that could take up to a year.
Both the House and Senate plan to hold hearings examining possible causes of the explosion that killed 29 workers at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch Mine. Monday's blast is the worst U.S. coal mining disaster since a 1970 explosion killed 38 in Hyden, Kentucky. The discovery of the final four bodies on Friday ended days of searches by rescue crews that repeatedly battled poisonous gases and smoke inside the mine. Twenty-eight of the dead were Massey employees, and one was a contract worker. Kevin Stricklin, coal administrator for the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, says smoke and the conditions were so dire with dust after the blast that rescuers didn't realize until late Friday they had walked past the bodies of the four missing miners on the first day without seeing them. Once the bodies are recovered, MSHA and West Virginia regulators plan a joint investigation that could take up to a year.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:15 AM
Obama To Discuss Mine Disaster
WEST VIRGINIA....
President Barack Obama will meet this coming week with Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and Mine Safety and Health Administrator Joe Main to discuss a report on their early assessment of the deadly explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine, including the cause, the safety record at the mine, and the steps that the Federal government should take to improve safety enforcement and prevent future tragedies. The Secretary and MSHA Administrator will address safety issues as well as enforcement and legal authorities in their briefing.
President Barack Obama will meet this coming week with Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and Mine Safety and Health Administrator Joe Main to discuss a report on their early assessment of the deadly explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine, including the cause, the safety record at the mine, and the steps that the Federal government should take to improve safety enforcement and prevent future tragedies. The Secretary and MSHA Administrator will address safety issues as well as enforcement and legal authorities in their briefing.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:13 AM
Some W. Va. Residents Get Extra Time To File Tax
WEST VIRGINIA....
Residents of Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Mercer and Raleigh counties declared federal disaster areas will get a tax breather because of the designation related to severe weather dating to March 12th. As a result, the due dates to file West Virginia tax returns have been extended until May 11th for most state taxes, including personal income. The extension applies to original filing dates that fall between March 12th and May 11th. Eligible taxpayers should write "Federal Disaster Extension'' in blue or black ink across the top of any tax return.
Residents of Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Mercer and Raleigh counties declared federal disaster areas will get a tax breather because of the designation related to severe weather dating to March 12th. As a result, the due dates to file West Virginia tax returns have been extended until May 11th for most state taxes, including personal income. The extension applies to original filing dates that fall between March 12th and May 11th. Eligible taxpayers should write "Federal Disaster Extension'' in blue or black ink across the top of any tax return.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:10 AM
St Albans Mother Charged
WEST VIRGINIA....
Twenty-three year old Zerlinda C. White of St. Albans has been arrested and charged with child abuse resulting in death. An autopsy confirmed her 2-month-old son, Ayden White, died of an abusive closed head injury. The incident happened at a home in the 2700 block of Kanawha Terrace.
Twenty-three year old Zerlinda C. White of St. Albans has been arrested and charged with child abuse resulting in death. An autopsy confirmed her 2-month-old son, Ayden White, died of an abusive closed head injury. The incident happened at a home in the 2700 block of Kanawha Terrace.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:08 AM
Radio Station To Hold Fundraiser
WEST VIRGINIA....
The radio station 93.7, The Dawg, will conduct a "Circle of Hope" fundraiser Monday, April 12th, at Pullman Square for Tri-State residents interested in making monetary contributions to help the families affected by Monday's fatal explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. Listeners can drive through and donate money from 6:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. Checks should be made payable to the WV Council of Churches.
The radio station 93.7, The Dawg, will conduct a "Circle of Hope" fundraiser Monday, April 12th, at Pullman Square for Tri-State residents interested in making monetary contributions to help the families affected by Monday's fatal explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. Listeners can drive through and donate money from 6:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. Checks should be made payable to the WV Council of Churches.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:06 AM
Accused Triple Murderer Arrested In KY
KENTUCKY...
Police catch up with a man wanted for questioning in an Indiana triple murder case.
Kentucky State police arrested 30-year old Jeremy Blanchard Friday night. He was taken into custody without incident after being pulled over on interstate 75. Police want to talk to Blanchard about the brutal murders of three people found in their Kokomo, Indiana home Friday morning. Neighbors say the three were stabbed.
Police catch up with a man wanted for questioning in an Indiana triple murder case.
Kentucky State police arrested 30-year old Jeremy Blanchard Friday night. He was taken into custody without incident after being pulled over on interstate 75. Police want to talk to Blanchard about the brutal murders of three people found in their Kokomo, Indiana home Friday morning. Neighbors say the three were stabbed.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:24 AM
Fireworks Vendor Sentenced
KENTUCKY...
A northern Kentucky businessman who said he wanted to be the largest pyrotechnics seller in the state was sentenced to four months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of distributing explosives without a license. Forty-five-year-old Sam Droganes of Fort Mitchell was sentenced Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Covington. The Kentucky Enquirer reported Droganes told Judge David Bunning his enthusiasm to grow the family fireworks business from a small storefront into the largest pyrotechnics seller in Kentucky clouded his judgment. Droganes had been caught selling commercial-grade fireworks to an undercover federal agent posing as a consumer. Forty-four tractor-trailer loads of pyrotechnics were seized from Droganes' business, Premium Fireworks, in July 2007. The company had offices and a store in Covington in addition to a warehouse in Taylor Mill.
A northern Kentucky businessman who said he wanted to be the largest pyrotechnics seller in the state was sentenced to four months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of distributing explosives without a license. Forty-five-year-old Sam Droganes of Fort Mitchell was sentenced Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Covington. The Kentucky Enquirer reported Droganes told Judge David Bunning his enthusiasm to grow the family fireworks business from a small storefront into the largest pyrotechnics seller in Kentucky clouded his judgment. Droganes had been caught selling commercial-grade fireworks to an undercover federal agent posing as a consumer. Forty-four tractor-trailer loads of pyrotechnics were seized from Droganes' business, Premium Fireworks, in July 2007. The company had offices and a store in Covington in addition to a warehouse in Taylor Mill.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:12 AM
Missing Woman Found In A Van
KENTUCKY...
Louisville police say they suspect foul play in the disappearance of a woman whose body was found inside a van at the parking lot of an apartment complex. Diane Tanselle had not been seen since last week. Louisville police Sgt. Aaron Crowell said it's unclear how long the van had been parked at the apartment complex. Crowell says the van was discovered Thursday morning, and police found Tanselle's body inside. Jefferson County deputy coroner Jack Arnold says the 51-year-old Tanselle died either April 2 or early April 3, but an official cause of death is pending results of an autopsy. Crowell says police have a person of interest in the investigation but are looking at other suspects.
Louisville police say they suspect foul play in the disappearance of a woman whose body was found inside a van at the parking lot of an apartment complex. Diane Tanselle had not been seen since last week. Louisville police Sgt. Aaron Crowell said it's unclear how long the van had been parked at the apartment complex. Crowell says the van was discovered Thursday morning, and police found Tanselle's body inside. Jefferson County deputy coroner Jack Arnold says the 51-year-old Tanselle died either April 2 or early April 3, but an official cause of death is pending results of an autopsy. Crowell says police have a person of interest in the investigation but are looking at other suspects.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:57 AM
Open Meetings Ruling
KENTUCKY...
The Butler County Fiscal Court is challenging a ruling by Kentucky's attorney general claiming that the fiscal court violated the state's open meetings law.
An appeal has been filed in Butler County Circuit Court. The case stems from a complaint by local government activist and judge-executive candidate Robert Cron to the attorney general's office in January. Cron sought a ruling on a series of one-on-one meetings in December and January between Butler County Sheriff Joe Gaddie, and Judge-Executive David Fields and several magistrates. Cron claims the meetings should have been open to the public because they dealt with official county business. The attorney general agreed with him. Fields says the meetings weren't illegal because there was no quorum.
The Butler County Fiscal Court is challenging a ruling by Kentucky's attorney general claiming that the fiscal court violated the state's open meetings law.
An appeal has been filed in Butler County Circuit Court. The case stems from a complaint by local government activist and judge-executive candidate Robert Cron to the attorney general's office in January. Cron sought a ruling on a series of one-on-one meetings in December and January between Butler County Sheriff Joe Gaddie, and Judge-Executive David Fields and several magistrates. Cron claims the meetings should have been open to the public because they dealt with official county business. The attorney general agreed with him. Fields says the meetings weren't illegal because there was no quorum.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:53 AM
Man Arrested For Death Of Elderly Woman
KENTUCKY...
Police say a man from south central Kentucky has been arrested in connection with the death of an elderly woman. Kentucky State Police say 32-year old Brandon Young of Tompkinsville killed 78-year old Clarene Adams on April 6. Court records indicate Young confessed to suffocating the woman. Members of Adams' family say they don't understand why Young - who was a neighbor of Adams - would kill her. Young is a registered sex offender.
Police say a man from south central Kentucky has been arrested in connection with the death of an elderly woman. Kentucky State Police say 32-year old Brandon Young of Tompkinsville killed 78-year old Clarene Adams on April 6. Court records indicate Young confessed to suffocating the woman. Members of Adams' family say they don't understand why Young - who was a neighbor of Adams - would kill her. Young is a registered sex offender.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:49 AM
Ashland Fugitive
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky State Police are looking for help from the public to track down a known fugitive. 37-year-old Marvin Hogstein, an Ashland native, is wanted for grand theft auto after allegedly stealing a 2006 Jeep Rubicon. The vehicle has since been recovered. Hogstein, however, is still missing. If you have any information on his whereabouts, please call the Kentucky State Police Ashland post at 606-928-6421.
Kentucky State Police are looking for help from the public to track down a known fugitive. 37-year-old Marvin Hogstein, an Ashland native, is wanted for grand theft auto after allegedly stealing a 2006 Jeep Rubicon. The vehicle has since been recovered. Hogstein, however, is still missing. If you have any information on his whereabouts, please call the Kentucky State Police Ashland post at 606-928-6421.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:46 AM
FOUR MINERS FOUND DEAD
WEST VIRGINIA...
The long wait, filled with many frustations, has now ended. The four miners have been discovered in the Upper Big Branch mine. Governor Joe Manchin says four missing miners have been found dead. That brings the death toll from Monday's explosion to 29
The four miners had been missing since Monday afternoon after a violent explosion inside the mine near the Raleigh-Boone county line. Crews found the bodies of the four men where they expected to find them. Three together and one along the long wall of the mine. There was a hope that the missing four were able to deploy a refuge chamber and seek shelter until rescue crews could find them. Prior to Friday night, rescue crews had attempted to find the four three times, but those were all stopped. Twice because of high methane readings inside the mine and once because of a fire. The cause of Monday's explosion is still under investigation.
The long wait, filled with many frustations, has now ended. The four miners have been discovered in the Upper Big Branch mine. Governor Joe Manchin says four missing miners have been found dead. That brings the death toll from Monday's explosion to 29
The four miners had been missing since Monday afternoon after a violent explosion inside the mine near the Raleigh-Boone county line. Crews found the bodies of the four men where they expected to find them. Three together and one along the long wall of the mine. There was a hope that the missing four were able to deploy a refuge chamber and seek shelter until rescue crews could find them. Prior to Friday night, rescue crews had attempted to find the four three times, but those were all stopped. Twice because of high methane readings inside the mine and once because of a fire. The cause of Monday's explosion is still under investigation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:32 AM
Friday, April 09, 2010
Turtle Plot Uncovered In WV
WEST VIRGINIA...
A Florida man will spend a year in prison for his role in a plot to smuggle more than 100 turtles out of West Virginia for sale elsewhere. Eric B. Diana of Lehigh Acres, Fla., was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Martinsburg. Diana had pleaded guilty in July 2009 to violating the Lacey Act, which prohibits trade in wildlife that have been illegally obtained. According to court documents, Diana and two other people conspired to capture turtles in West Virginia and take the animals to Virginia in late May or June 2008.
A Florida man will spend a year in prison for his role in a plot to smuggle more than 100 turtles out of West Virginia for sale elsewhere. Eric B. Diana of Lehigh Acres, Fla., was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Martinsburg. Diana had pleaded guilty in July 2009 to violating the Lacey Act, which prohibits trade in wildlife that have been illegally obtained. According to court documents, Diana and two other people conspired to capture turtles in West Virginia and take the animals to Virginia in late May or June 2008.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 2:01 PM
Protestor Circulates Hate Fliers
WEST VIRGINIA....
In the aftermath of an explosion which left miners dead at the Upper Big Branch mine, a couple dozen coal miners and their friends showed up Thursday morning outside Marsh Fork Elementary School to turn away protest members of the Westboro Baptist Church, which is unaffiliated with any Baptist organization. The protestors, who usually carry signs like "God hates fags" and "Thank God for Dead Soldiers," briefly demonstrated at the University of Charleston and the state Capitol this. Protesters didn't show up at Marsh Fork, but, at least one member, was circulating fliers that read, "God hates WV! The dead miners are in Hell!"
In the aftermath of an explosion which left miners dead at the Upper Big Branch mine, a couple dozen coal miners and their friends showed up Thursday morning outside Marsh Fork Elementary School to turn away protest members of the Westboro Baptist Church, which is unaffiliated with any Baptist organization. The protestors, who usually carry signs like "God hates fags" and "Thank God for Dead Soldiers," briefly demonstrated at the University of Charleston and the state Capitol this. Protesters didn't show up at Marsh Fork, but, at least one member, was circulating fliers that read, "God hates WV! The dead miners are in Hell!"
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:24 AM
Police Continue Seeking Answers To Fatal Crash
WEST VIRGINIA....
Investigators are still attempting to determine what caused a deadly three-vehicle accident Wednesday on Interstate 64 in Milton that killed four people and closed down portions of I-64 for more than 10 hours. Cabell County Sheriff Tom McComas says the accident occurred when a vehicle in the westbound lane experienced a mechanical problem and, while the driver attempted to go to the side of the road, made contact with another vehicle, both vehicles going through the cable barrier and into the eastbound lane, striking an eastbound tractor-trailer carrying three people from Georgia. Those three and a driver of one of the cars died from injuries.
Investigators are still attempting to determine what caused a deadly three-vehicle accident Wednesday on Interstate 64 in Milton that killed four people and closed down portions of I-64 for more than 10 hours. Cabell County Sheriff Tom McComas says the accident occurred when a vehicle in the westbound lane experienced a mechanical problem and, while the driver attempted to go to the side of the road, made contact with another vehicle, both vehicles going through the cable barrier and into the eastbound lane, striking an eastbound tractor-trailer carrying three people from Georgia. Those three and a driver of one of the cars died from injuries.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:22 AM
Cameras To Help Locate Stolen Vehicles
WEST VIRGINIA....
Through a $96,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, new cameras have been installed on the back of one vehicle each in the Huntington, Milton and Barboursville Police departments and the Cabell County Sheriff's Office that will instantly alert officers of stolen vehicles. The three cameras on each vehicle will capture up to 20 images of license plates, then send the information to an onboard daily updated laptop computer inside the cruisers. Law enforcement agencies in Cabell County are the only ones in the state to have this new technology.
Through a $96,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, new cameras have been installed on the back of one vehicle each in the Huntington, Milton and Barboursville Police departments and the Cabell County Sheriff's Office that will instantly alert officers of stolen vehicles. The three cameras on each vehicle will capture up to 20 images of license plates, then send the information to an onboard daily updated laptop computer inside the cruisers. Law enforcement agencies in Cabell County are the only ones in the state to have this new technology.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:20 AM
W. Va. Couple Hits Powerball
WEST VIRGINIA....
One West Virginia couple, Frank and Patricia Proud of Durbin in Pocahontas County, found themselves $1 million richer this week after purchasing six Powerball tickets at Trent's General Store in Bartow. The couple had purchased one ticket with the PowerPlay multiplier, which was the winning ticket...the prize automatically jumping from $200,000 to $1 million. Computer records indicate another $200,000 Powerball prize won from a ticket bought at a Giant Eagle in Granville.
One West Virginia couple, Frank and Patricia Proud of Durbin in Pocahontas County, found themselves $1 million richer this week after purchasing six Powerball tickets at Trent's General Store in Bartow. The couple had purchased one ticket with the PowerPlay multiplier, which was the winning ticket...the prize automatically jumping from $200,000 to $1 million. Computer records indicate another $200,000 Powerball prize won from a ticket bought at a Giant Eagle in Granville.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:18 AM
W. Va. Doctor Stripped Of License
WEST VIRGINIA....
The West Virginia Board of Osteopathy stripped Dr. Anita Dawson of her license Wednesday and scheduled a closed hearing on April 20th in Charleston to respond to complaints that she improperly prescribed drugs, which caused or contributed to the deaths of 11 people, including eight patients who overdosed. The deaths of 47 year old Carole Crawford, 16 year old Meaghan Crawford and 15 year old Kelsey Kuhn, who were killed in an accident last April, are the result of a long time addicted patient. Two months ago, Erma Brown, who was driving the vehicle that hit them, pleaded guilty to DUI causing death. The investigation into the prescription-writing practices of the Milton doctor began four years ago when the first complaint was filed by a family member of a patient who died.
The West Virginia Board of Osteopathy stripped Dr. Anita Dawson of her license Wednesday and scheduled a closed hearing on April 20th in Charleston to respond to complaints that she improperly prescribed drugs, which caused or contributed to the deaths of 11 people, including eight patients who overdosed. The deaths of 47 year old Carole Crawford, 16 year old Meaghan Crawford and 15 year old Kelsey Kuhn, who were killed in an accident last April, are the result of a long time addicted patient. Two months ago, Erma Brown, who was driving the vehicle that hit them, pleaded guilty to DUI causing death. The investigation into the prescription-writing practices of the Milton doctor began four years ago when the first complaint was filed by a family member of a patient who died.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:16 AM
Ky. Receives National Award
KENTUCKY....
The Kentucky Marijuana Eradication Initiative, a program that has successfully destroyed millions of marijuana plants growing in eastern Kentucky received a national award this week in Washington, D.C., from the federal Office of National Drug Control Policy. Kyle Edelen, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, says the eradication team cut down 333,000 plants in 2009, down from the 1 million cut in 1990 when the initiative began. In 2007, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District started the "Up in Smoke" program, which combined aggressive federal prosecutions with significant prison time for those who grow marijuana..
The Kentucky Marijuana Eradication Initiative, a program that has successfully destroyed millions of marijuana plants growing in eastern Kentucky received a national award this week in Washington, D.C., from the federal Office of National Drug Control Policy. Kyle Edelen, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, says the eradication team cut down 333,000 plants in 2009, down from the 1 million cut in 1990 when the initiative began. In 2007, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District started the "Up in Smoke" program, which combined aggressive federal prosecutions with significant prison time for those who grow marijuana..
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:13 AM
VA Seeking New Louisville Location
KENTUCKY....
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is placing advertisements in publications asking landowners to offer sites for sale within 15 miles of University Hospital in downtown Louisville. Officials with the Louisville Veterans Affairs Medical Center say, despite some vets' objections to moving a proposed new hospital downtown, no location is being ruled out, and there will be a comment period. Officials haven't said how much money the VA is willing to spend for land, but $75 million has been approved for site selection and design.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is placing advertisements in publications asking landowners to offer sites for sale within 15 miles of University Hospital in downtown Louisville. Officials with the Louisville Veterans Affairs Medical Center say, despite some vets' objections to moving a proposed new hospital downtown, no location is being ruled out, and there will be a comment period. Officials haven't said how much money the VA is willing to spend for land, but $75 million has been approved for site selection and design.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:03 AM
Ky. Voting Records Show Net Decline
KENTUCKY....
Records from the Kentucky State Board of Elections show that, since January 2009, more than 100,000 new voters have registered, 50,000 as Democrats, 41,000 as Republicans and 11,600 with other parties, even though all three categories showed net declines. The tea party movement has stirred political activism across the state, but hasn't triggered an increase in voters. Numbers show Kentucky hasn't had enough people registering over the past year to replace those who died or were removed from the voter rolls for other reasons. The state had a net decline of roughly 70,000 voters since the 2008 presidential election. During the first two months of this year, Democrats continued to outpace Republicans in registrations.
Records from the Kentucky State Board of Elections show that, since January 2009, more than 100,000 new voters have registered, 50,000 as Democrats, 41,000 as Republicans and 11,600 with other parties, even though all three categories showed net declines. The tea party movement has stirred political activism across the state, but hasn't triggered an increase in voters. Numbers show Kentucky hasn't had enough people registering over the past year to replace those who died or were removed from the voter rolls for other reasons. The state had a net decline of roughly 70,000 voters since the 2008 presidential election. During the first two months of this year, Democrats continued to outpace Republicans in registrations.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:46 AM
Florida Clinic Focuses On Kentucky Patients
KENTUCKY....
Dr. Michael Lazzopina, a doctor at a pain clinic in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida., has been suspended for dispensing tens of thousands of painkillers to patients without medical justification. Fifteen of the 21 patients that Florida health officials investigated at the clinic were from Kentucky. Lazzopina said the clinic stopped accepting Kentucky patients after he concluded many were likely trafficking pills, and he was sure they were part of a gang or a band.
Dr. Michael Lazzopina, a doctor at a pain clinic in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida., has been suspended for dispensing tens of thousands of painkillers to patients without medical justification. Fifteen of the 21 patients that Florida health officials investigated at the clinic were from Kentucky. Lazzopina said the clinic stopped accepting Kentucky patients after he concluded many were likely trafficking pills, and he was sure they were part of a gang or a band.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:44 AM
Construction Begins On Recreational Trail
KENTUCKY....
Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry, U.S. Representative Ben Chandler and Kentucky first lady Jane Beshear attended an event this week to announce the beginning of construction on the 12½-mile Legacy Trail, a recreational trail that will someday stretch from downtown Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park. The trail's first and second phases, costing about $7.8 million, are scheduled to be completed before the World Equestrian Games begin in September and will be paid for through a mix of federal, state and local funds. Chandler says the trail will create jobs, stimulate tourism and reduce traffic congestion, while taking walkers and cyclists through some scenic countryside in the heart of Kentucky's bluegrass region.
Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry, U.S. Representative Ben Chandler and Kentucky first lady Jane Beshear attended an event this week to announce the beginning of construction on the 12½-mile Legacy Trail, a recreational trail that will someday stretch from downtown Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park. The trail's first and second phases, costing about $7.8 million, are scheduled to be completed before the World Equestrian Games begin in September and will be paid for through a mix of federal, state and local funds. Chandler says the trail will create jobs, stimulate tourism and reduce traffic congestion, while taking walkers and cyclists through some scenic countryside in the heart of Kentucky's bluegrass region.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:57 AM
Kentucky Included In Brokerage Pursuit
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority have taken action against the Memphis-based brokerage firm of Morgan Keegan & Co. They've accused the firm of costing investors, including retirees, more than $2 billion through fraudulent and reckless business practices. Regulators allege that Morgan Keegan overstated the value of funds backed by subprime mortgages and used false and misleading sales materials. According to the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions, about 13,000 Kentuckians invested in the six funds, which lost $2 billion from March 31, 2007, to March 31, 2008, while losing more than $9.4 million in just one of the funds. No criminal charges have been filed. Morgan Keegan & Co. is owned by Birmingham, Alabama-based Regions Financial Corp.
Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority have taken action against the Memphis-based brokerage firm of Morgan Keegan & Co. They've accused the firm of costing investors, including retirees, more than $2 billion through fraudulent and reckless business practices. Regulators allege that Morgan Keegan overstated the value of funds backed by subprime mortgages and used false and misleading sales materials. According to the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions, about 13,000 Kentuckians invested in the six funds, which lost $2 billion from March 31, 2007, to March 31, 2008, while losing more than $9.4 million in just one of the funds. No criminal charges have been filed. Morgan Keegan & Co. is owned by Birmingham, Alabama-based Regions Financial Corp.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:55 AM
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Pike County Indicts Trucker
KENTUCKY....
Forty-four year old Arthur Davis, a South Carolina truck driver, has been indicted in Pike County on manslaughter charges. Police say Davis was operating on a suspended license and had no CDL when his truck hit and killed 32 year old Kevin Jones and 20 year old Paul Williams, who were setting up tree-trimming signs by route 1499 in Mouthcard. Davis was charged with two counts of reckless homicide, but the grand jury amended the charge to manslaughter.
Forty-four year old Arthur Davis, a South Carolina truck driver, has been indicted in Pike County on manslaughter charges. Police say Davis was operating on a suspended license and had no CDL when his truck hit and killed 32 year old Kevin Jones and 20 year old Paul Williams, who were setting up tree-trimming signs by route 1499 in Mouthcard. Davis was charged with two counts of reckless homicide, but the grand jury amended the charge to manslaughter.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:16 PM
Paintsville Police Make Drug Bust
KENTUCKY....
Paintsville Police arrested 32 year old Bobby J. Daniels and 39 year old Gary Sublett after they say they caught them dealing drugs at the Paintsville City Park in Johnson County Wednesday night. Members of the Paintsville Police Drug Task Force say Daniels and Sublett ran from officers but were later arrested at the nearby El Rancho Apartments, where police say the men had Roxicodone, Hydrocodone and other pills.
Paintsville Police arrested 32 year old Bobby J. Daniels and 39 year old Gary Sublett after they say they caught them dealing drugs at the Paintsville City Park in Johnson County Wednesday night. Members of the Paintsville Police Drug Task Force say Daniels and Sublett ran from officers but were later arrested at the nearby El Rancho Apartments, where police say the men had Roxicodone, Hydrocodone and other pills.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:15 PM
Clay County Social Worker Charged
KENTUCKY....
Clay County social worker Molly D. Smith has been arrested and charged with public intoxication. Authorities say, around 1:00 A.M. Thursday morning, she was traveling on Highway 421 going towards 118 in Leslie County when police noticed she was acting in a peculiar manner. It was discovered she had taken a prescription pill called Fioricet.
Clay County social worker Molly D. Smith has been arrested and charged with public intoxication. Authorities say, around 1:00 A.M. Thursday morning, she was traveling on Highway 421 going towards 118 in Leslie County when police noticed she was acting in a peculiar manner. It was discovered she had taken a prescription pill called Fioricet.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:13 PM
Death Investigation In Whitley County
KENTUCKY....
A death investigation is underway after Dennis "Russell" Meadors, a Whitley County magistrate died after being shot in the back while turkey hunting. Authorities have charged his nephew and hunting partner, William Sulfridge, with illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
A death investigation is underway after Dennis "Russell" Meadors, a Whitley County magistrate died after being shot in the back while turkey hunting. Authorities have charged his nephew and hunting partner, William Sulfridge, with illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:12 PM
U.K. Arson Case Goes To Grand Jury
KENTUCKY....
The arson case involving University of Kentucky fraternity member 20 year old Sean P. Dunn of Hebron has been turned over to a grand jury which will have 60 days to decide whether to indict him. Dunn also faces charges of wanton endangerment and tampering with physical evidence after being accused of setting a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon on fire while he was wrapped in toilet paper. University officials ordered the fraternity house evacuated and closed after the incident. Dunn has pleaded not guilty.
The arson case involving University of Kentucky fraternity member 20 year old Sean P. Dunn of Hebron has been turned over to a grand jury which will have 60 days to decide whether to indict him. Dunn also faces charges of wanton endangerment and tampering with physical evidence after being accused of setting a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon on fire while he was wrapped in toilet paper. University officials ordered the fraternity house evacuated and closed after the incident. Dunn has pleaded not guilty.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:10 PM
Thoroughbred Owner Files Counterclaim
KENTUCKY....
Prominent thoroughbred owner Ahmed Zayat, the owner of top Kentucky Derby contender Eskendereya, is asking a bankruptcy judge to rule that Fifth Third Bank's claims of loan default are false. He is asking the judge to hold Fifth Third to promises he claims the bank made in July 2009 to restructure loans. Fifth Third has said Zayat would not agree to any restructuring that did not release his personal guarantee of the loans. Zayat also seeks damages for what the suit calls "multimillion-dollar lender liability claims arising out of a long-standing pattern of misleading, deception and predatory lending practices. Fifth Third sued Zayat in U.S. District Court in Lexington in December, and Zayat filed a counterclaim in the same court.
Prominent thoroughbred owner Ahmed Zayat, the owner of top Kentucky Derby contender Eskendereya, is asking a bankruptcy judge to rule that Fifth Third Bank's claims of loan default are false. He is asking the judge to hold Fifth Third to promises he claims the bank made in July 2009 to restructure loans. Fifth Third has said Zayat would not agree to any restructuring that did not release his personal guarantee of the loans. Zayat also seeks damages for what the suit calls "multimillion-dollar lender liability claims arising out of a long-standing pattern of misleading, deception and predatory lending practices. Fifth Third sued Zayat in U.S. District Court in Lexington in December, and Zayat filed a counterclaim in the same court.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:08 PM
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Pikeville Man To Lead MSHA Investigation
KENTUCKY....
The Mine Safety and Health Administration has appointed a special team of investigators to look into the blast that has killed at least 25 workers at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch South Mine in West Virginia. Norman Page, a 25-year veteran of the mine safety agency who manages its district office in Pikeville, has been chosen to lead the team, which will, after evaluating all aspects of the accident, including possible causes and the operator's compliance with federal health and safety standards, issue a formal report on its findings and conclusions.
The Mine Safety and Health Administration has appointed a special team of investigators to look into the blast that has killed at least 25 workers at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch South Mine in West Virginia. Norman Page, a 25-year veteran of the mine safety agency who manages its district office in Pikeville, has been chosen to lead the team, which will, after evaluating all aspects of the accident, including possible causes and the operator's compliance with federal health and safety standards, issue a formal report on its findings and conclusions.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:22 PM
Lawmakers Consider State Budget
KENTUCKY....
The Kentucky legislature must pass a budget before midnight April 15th, or Governor Steve Beshear would probably have to call lawmakers back for a special session before the 2011 fiscal year begins July 1st. House Democrats have sought to protect more than $1 billion in water, sewer and school construction projects they put into the budget, while the Senate struck that spending from the bill, expressing concern over the state's mounting debt. House and Senate leaders have failed to agree on how to trim education funding. House Speaker Greg Stumbo sent a letter Wednesday to Senate President David Williams saying the House is close to drafting the latest counterproposal, and he suggested reconvening formal negotiations Friday. However, Williams responded in a four-sentence reply that, once a written counteroffer is forwarded to him, the Senate will promptly review that document and respond.
The Kentucky legislature must pass a budget before midnight April 15th, or Governor Steve Beshear would probably have to call lawmakers back for a special session before the 2011 fiscal year begins July 1st. House Democrats have sought to protect more than $1 billion in water, sewer and school construction projects they put into the budget, while the Senate struck that spending from the bill, expressing concern over the state's mounting debt. House and Senate leaders have failed to agree on how to trim education funding. House Speaker Greg Stumbo sent a letter Wednesday to Senate President David Williams saying the House is close to drafting the latest counterproposal, and he suggested reconvening formal negotiations Friday. However, Williams responded in a four-sentence reply that, once a written counteroffer is forwarded to him, the Senate will promptly review that document and respond.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:21 PM
U.K. Players Entering NBA Draft
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky freshmen Eric Bledsoe, DeMarcus Cousins, Daniel Orton and John Wall and junior Patrick Patterson will enter their names in this year's NBA Draft. All five players are projected as first-round picks. Kentucky freshmen DeMarcus Cousins was second on the team in scoring, averaging 15.1 ppg while posting a team-best 9.8 rpg average, all in only 23.5 minutes per game. He destroyed the UK freshman rebounding record by nearly 100 rebounds and scored the second-most points by a UK freshman, behind teammate John Wall who led the Wildcats in scoring (16.6), assists (6.5) and steals (1.8) while setting the school single-season assist record with 241. The Adolph Rupp National Player of the Year recorded five double-doubles on the season, three in points and assists, and two in points and rebounds, making him the first player in UK history to record double-doubles in points and rebounds and points and assists.
Kentucky freshmen Eric Bledsoe, DeMarcus Cousins, Daniel Orton and John Wall and junior Patrick Patterson will enter their names in this year's NBA Draft. All five players are projected as first-round picks. Kentucky freshmen DeMarcus Cousins was second on the team in scoring, averaging 15.1 ppg while posting a team-best 9.8 rpg average, all in only 23.5 minutes per game. He destroyed the UK freshman rebounding record by nearly 100 rebounds and scored the second-most points by a UK freshman, behind teammate John Wall who led the Wildcats in scoring (16.6), assists (6.5) and steals (1.8) while setting the school single-season assist record with 241. The Adolph Rupp National Player of the Year recorded five double-doubles on the season, three in points and assists, and two in points and rebounds, making him the first player in UK history to record double-doubles in points and rebounds and points and assists.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:19 PM
Powell County Mother Pleads Not Guilty
KENTUCKY....
Jessica Ellen Charles, a Powell County mother charged in the death of her 22-month-old daughter, Danika, pleaded not guilty Wednesday. Investigators say Danika was pronounced dead at a Clark County hospital on February 19th. Charles was indicted about a month later after autopsy results showed Danika died from blunt force trauma to the head, chest, abdomen, legs and arms.
Jessica Ellen Charles, a Powell County mother charged in the death of her 22-month-old daughter, Danika, pleaded not guilty Wednesday. Investigators say Danika was pronounced dead at a Clark County hospital on February 19th. Charles was indicted about a month later after autopsy results showed Danika died from blunt force trauma to the head, chest, abdomen, legs and arms.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:17 PM
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Forestry Division Battles Fires
KENTUCKY....
The Kentucky Division of Forestry says the last few days have been busy for local firefighters who have battled more than 150 blazes in eastern Kentucky. The division says, during fire season, which ends April 30th, it is illegal to burn any flammable material within 150 feet of any woodlands or brushlands except between 6:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.
The Kentucky Division of Forestry says the last few days have been busy for local firefighters who have battled more than 150 blazes in eastern Kentucky. The division says, during fire season, which ends April 30th, it is illegal to burn any flammable material within 150 feet of any woodlands or brushlands except between 6:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:43 PM
Death Penalty Sought For Nunn
KENTUCKY....
Fayette County Commonwealth's Attorney Ray Larson says paperwork has been filed showing prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty in the murder case against former Kentucky Representative 57 year old Steve Nunn. On Monday, a judge ruled that Nunn is competent to stand trial in the September 11th fatal shooting of his former fiancee, 29 year old Amanda Ross.
Fayette County Commonwealth's Attorney Ray Larson says paperwork has been filed showing prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty in the murder case against former Kentucky Representative 57 year old Steve Nunn. On Monday, a judge ruled that Nunn is competent to stand trial in the September 11th fatal shooting of his former fiancee, 29 year old Amanda Ross.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:28 PM
Mine Rescue Halted
WEST VIRGINIA....
The search for 4 missing miners inside Massey Energy’s Upper Big Branch Mine came to a temporary halt Tuesday to allow time for a drilling operation to try to vent the mine. At Tuesday’s noon-time briefing on the explosion that killed at least 25 miners, Governor Joe Manchin, MSHA administrator Kevin Stricklin and state Secretary of Mine Safety and Health Ron Wooten were pressed on issues regarding past safety problems at the mine. Wooten promised a thorough probe in the investigation into what caused the deadly explosion. MSHA's Kevin Stricklin said, “Give us an opportunity to conduct a full investigation and we’ll leave no stone unturned.” Governor Joe Manchin and Congressman Nick Rahall both promised hearings after the investigation is concluded. Rahall says he has already spoken with the proper chairman, and there will be a Congressional hearing. During a 5:00 P.M. news conference, officials said drilling should be completed between noon and 2:00 P.M. Wednesday. Air levels will be checked for methane gas, and, if safe, the search will continue.
The search for 4 missing miners inside Massey Energy’s Upper Big Branch Mine came to a temporary halt Tuesday to allow time for a drilling operation to try to vent the mine. At Tuesday’s noon-time briefing on the explosion that killed at least 25 miners, Governor Joe Manchin, MSHA administrator Kevin Stricklin and state Secretary of Mine Safety and Health Ron Wooten were pressed on issues regarding past safety problems at the mine. Wooten promised a thorough probe in the investigation into what caused the deadly explosion. MSHA's Kevin Stricklin said, “Give us an opportunity to conduct a full investigation and we’ll leave no stone unturned.” Governor Joe Manchin and Congressman Nick Rahall both promised hearings after the investigation is concluded. Rahall says he has already spoken with the proper chairman, and there will be a Congressional hearing. During a 5:00 P.M. news conference, officials said drilling should be completed between noon and 2:00 P.M. Wednesday. Air levels will be checked for methane gas, and, if safe, the search will continue.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:27 PM
Monday, April 05, 2010
Pike County Bus Wreck
KENTUCKY....
Just a couple of weeks after a school bus accident near a school in Millard, another school bus accident occurred Monday afternoon just before 4:00 P.M. on U.S. 460 in the Millard community near the same site. Officials say a car collided with the bus carrying 21 students and the bus driver, but no injuries were reported.
Just a couple of weeks after a school bus accident near a school in Millard, another school bus accident occurred Monday afternoon just before 4:00 P.M. on U.S. 460 in the Millard community near the same site. Officials say a car collided with the bus carrying 21 students and the bus driver, but no injuries were reported.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:05 PM
KSP Report Perry County Shooting
KENTUCKY....
Monday, Kentucky State Police received a call for assistance from Perry County Sheriff's Office due to a shooting in the Dwarf community of Perry County . Roger Miniard and Rebecca Jones both received gunshot wounds as they were attempting to leave the area in a vehicle. Brian Hensley was arrested and lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail. He was charged with 2 counts of assault 1st and 3 counts of wanton endangerment 1st due to other people being in the area. The case remains under investigation by Det. Gary Sandlin.
Monday, Kentucky State Police received a call for assistance from Perry County Sheriff's Office due to a shooting in the Dwarf community of Perry County . Roger Miniard and Rebecca Jones both received gunshot wounds as they were attempting to leave the area in a vehicle. Brian Hensley was arrested and lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail. He was charged with 2 counts of assault 1st and 3 counts of wanton endangerment 1st due to other people being in the area. The case remains under investigation by Det. Gary Sandlin.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:52 PM
Beshear-Abramson Campaign Finances Near $2 Million
KENTUCKY....
The election is not until 2011, but Monday, Governor Steve Beshear filed documents with the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance in Frankfort showing he and running mate Jerry Abramson had raised more than $931,000 in the first quarter of 2010, bringing the campaign's total raised to more than $1.9 million. Beshear's political director Chad Aull said the campaign had nearly 2,800 contributions from donors in 116 of Kentucky's 120 counties, and they're very pleased with the support from around the state.
The election is not until 2011, but Monday, Governor Steve Beshear filed documents with the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance in Frankfort showing he and running mate Jerry Abramson had raised more than $931,000 in the first quarter of 2010, bringing the campaign's total raised to more than $1.9 million. Beshear's political director Chad Aull said the campaign had nearly 2,800 contributions from donors in 116 of Kentucky's 120 counties, and they're very pleased with the support from around the state.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 6:01 PM
Dunham Mountain In Letcher County Closed To Traffic Wednesday
KENTUCKY...
State highway officials will close KY 3409 in Letcher County - Dunham Mountain Road - on Wednesday, April 7, from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. According to Billy Smallwood, Letcher Maintenance Superintendent, crews will replace a 36-inch cross drain which runs underneath the pavement. Crews will have to cut the pavement to remove the old drain and install a new one. Officials said there is no safe way to route traffic over the work site while this is being done. While apologizing for the temporaty inconcenience, they pointed out that motorists could use KY343 as alternate route.
State highway officials will close KY 3409 in Letcher County - Dunham Mountain Road - on Wednesday, April 7, from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. According to Billy Smallwood, Letcher Maintenance Superintendent, crews will replace a 36-inch cross drain which runs underneath the pavement. Crews will have to cut the pavement to remove the old drain and install a new one. Officials said there is no safe way to route traffic over the work site while this is being done. While apologizing for the temporaty inconcenience, they pointed out that motorists could use KY343 as alternate route.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:29 PM
Competency Hearing For Nunn
KENTUCKY...
Former state Representative 57 year old Steve Nunn, the son of former Kentucky Governor Louie Nunn, has been found competent to stand trial in the September 11th shooting death of his former fiance, 29 year old Amanda Ross. Nunn underwent court-ordered testing at the Kentucky Psychiatric Correctional Center in La Grange between January 25th and February 17th after his attorneys, Warren Scoville of London and Bette Niemi of Louisville, questioned whether he was competent enough to assist in his defense. Prosecutors say Nunn gunned down Ross in the parking lot outside her Lexington home, violating a domestic-violence protection order she had placed against him.
Former state Representative 57 year old Steve Nunn, the son of former Kentucky Governor Louie Nunn, has been found competent to stand trial in the September 11th shooting death of his former fiance, 29 year old Amanda Ross. Nunn underwent court-ordered testing at the Kentucky Psychiatric Correctional Center in La Grange between January 25th and February 17th after his attorneys, Warren Scoville of London and Bette Niemi of Louisville, questioned whether he was competent enough to assist in his defense. Prosecutors say Nunn gunned down Ross in the parking lot outside her Lexington home, violating a domestic-violence protection order she had placed against him.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:37 AM
AG Warns On Use Of Social Networks
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway is warning students who will be leaving town for spring break to be careful what they post on social networking sites like Facebook. A statement from Conway says the warning follows a recent burglary near Louisville believed to be prompted by a woman who posted online that she was leaving home for the evening. Police believe one of the woman's Facebook "friends" saw the message and went to her home. Investigators in the Attorney General's Cybercrimes Unit also caution against posting personal information, like a birth date, which could be used by identity thieves, spammers or stalkers.
Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway is warning students who will be leaving town for spring break to be careful what they post on social networking sites like Facebook. A statement from Conway says the warning follows a recent burglary near Louisville believed to be prompted by a woman who posted online that she was leaving home for the evening. Police believe one of the woman's Facebook "friends" saw the message and went to her home. Investigators in the Attorney General's Cybercrimes Unit also caution against posting personal information, like a birth date, which could be used by identity thieves, spammers or stalkers.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:34 AM
Pets Are Being Seen Less
KENTUCKY...
Veterinarians say they're seeing sicker pets that require more expensive care for illnesses that routine visits would have caught early. The Paducah Sun reported the uptick appears to be related to the recession and pet owners trying to reduce expenses. Clients aren't bringing their dogs and cats in for such routine treatments as vaccinations and preventive measures, such as heartworm medication.
People think they're saving money, but sometimes find their pets get really sick, requiring much more expensive treatment. Many of the ailments in pets are preventable.
Veterinarians say they're seeing sicker pets that require more expensive care for illnesses that routine visits would have caught early. The Paducah Sun reported the uptick appears to be related to the recession and pet owners trying to reduce expenses. Clients aren't bringing their dogs and cats in for such routine treatments as vaccinations and preventive measures, such as heartworm medication.
People think they're saving money, but sometimes find their pets get really sick, requiring much more expensive treatment. Many of the ailments in pets are preventable.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:26 AM
Sunday, April 04, 2010
Pike County Animal Shelter Needs Donations
KENTUCKY....
With the new Pike County Animal Shelter being built at Lykins Creek more than 80% complete, officials hope the 7,000-square-foot, $1 million facility can be open by mid-June. The Pike County Fiscal Court has taken possession of the building, and officials with the shelter say it is unfurnished at this point and is in need of donations. Once complete, the state-of-the art facility will allow all activities to be performed inside the building which is being set up in a way as to ensure healthy and sick animals are not mixed. Donations can be sent to the Pike County Humane Society, 130 Chestnut Drive, Pikeville, KY 41501.
With the new Pike County Animal Shelter being built at Lykins Creek more than 80% complete, officials hope the 7,000-square-foot, $1 million facility can be open by mid-June. The Pike County Fiscal Court has taken possession of the building, and officials with the shelter say it is unfurnished at this point and is in need of donations. Once complete, the state-of-the art facility will allow all activities to be performed inside the building which is being set up in a way as to ensure healthy and sick animals are not mixed. Donations can be sent to the Pike County Humane Society, 130 Chestnut Drive, Pikeville, KY 41501.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:39 PM
Kentucky Executions Could Resume
KENTUCKY....
Since the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976, Kentucky has rarely executed any of its death row inmates, the last in 2008. The state is on the verge of re-enacting the process and could start setting execution dates for multiple inmates by early summer. A half-dozen inmates could exhaust their appeals by the end of the year. Among those whose appeals have run out are Ralph Baze, who was convicted in 1992. Baze is one of three inmates with pending warrants who could see an execution date set once the state's lethal injection protocol is re-implemented. The state Supreme Court halted all executions, stopping Governor Steve Beshear from acting on requests to set dates for Baze, Gregory L. Wilson, and Robert Carl Foley. Warrants for Wilson, Baze and Foley, requested in November, remain pending before Beshear. The protocol is on course to take effect no later than May 7th, and, should that happen, Kentucky could start executing inmates in early June.
Since the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976, Kentucky has rarely executed any of its death row inmates, the last in 2008. The state is on the verge of re-enacting the process and could start setting execution dates for multiple inmates by early summer. A half-dozen inmates could exhaust their appeals by the end of the year. Among those whose appeals have run out are Ralph Baze, who was convicted in 1992. Baze is one of three inmates with pending warrants who could see an execution date set once the state's lethal injection protocol is re-implemented. The state Supreme Court halted all executions, stopping Governor Steve Beshear from acting on requests to set dates for Baze, Gregory L. Wilson, and Robert Carl Foley. Warrants for Wilson, Baze and Foley, requested in November, remain pending before Beshear. The protocol is on course to take effect no later than May 7th, and, should that happen, Kentucky could start executing inmates in early June.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:45 PM
Regulation Aimed At Overworked Truck Drivers
KENTUCKY....
Exactly one week after a tractor-trailer crossed the Interstate-65 median near Munfordville, killing 10 people and the truck driver, a new federal regulation was issued Friday requiring trucking companies that repeatedly violate driver time limits to install electronic recorders to track how long drivers are at the wheel. The recorders will only be required for trucking companies found deficient during on-site compliance reviews, while only about 1 to 2 percent of the 750,000 trucking companies in the U.S. are reviewed on site each year. The Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced Friday that it will conduct an on-site review of Fayette, Ala.-based Hester Inc., the carrier involved in the crash, after it was given a "deficient" rating in February based on failed driver's inspections and moving violations, but was not subject to an on-site review. The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended every carrier be required to use them.
Exactly one week after a tractor-trailer crossed the Interstate-65 median near Munfordville, killing 10 people and the truck driver, a new federal regulation was issued Friday requiring trucking companies that repeatedly violate driver time limits to install electronic recorders to track how long drivers are at the wheel. The recorders will only be required for trucking companies found deficient during on-site compliance reviews, while only about 1 to 2 percent of the 750,000 trucking companies in the U.S. are reviewed on site each year. The Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced Friday that it will conduct an on-site review of Fayette, Ala.-based Hester Inc., the carrier involved in the crash, after it was given a "deficient" rating in February based on failed driver's inspections and moving violations, but was not subject to an on-site review. The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended every carrier be required to use them.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:35 PM
Clinic Raid Leads To Doctor Investigation
WEST VIRGINIA...
Investigators have seized a small fortune from a Mingo County doctor in a case that parallels the March 2nd raid of a Williamson pain clinic, the Mountain Medical Care Center. U.S. District Court papers disclose prosecutors are negotiating a plea deal with Dr. Diane Shafer, whom they suspect of improperly prescribing pills that led to the raid after agents tracked hundreds of people who entered the storefront clinic daily, paid between $150 and $450 cash, and left with pain drug prescriptions. No charges have been filed, and a lawyer for the clinic’s office manager says it treated legitimate patients. It's alleged Shafer’s illegal activities yielded more than $1.36 million last year alone. The emerging federal case against her could end a medical career that has often brought unwelcome headlines in which she repeatedly run afoul of the licensing boards in both West Virginia and Kentucky. She was convicted of bribery in 1993 after secretly marrying and giving $42,500 to the Kentucky official overseeing one of those ethics cases, which was dismissed. Her conviction was later overturned. The court filings and West Virginia Board of Medicine records show she surrendered her license in December, but is still listed as president of Mingo County’s chapter of the state medical association. Investigators pursued at least a dozen search or seizure warrants the day they raided the Williamson clinic. They targeted homes of its two main doctors, William Ryckman and Katherine Hoover, and office manager Myra Miller as well as bank accounts, a safety deposit box and Hoover‘s 2007 BMW convertible. Filings show the FBI searched a Williamson apartment shared by Hoover and Shafer, confiscating nearly $91,000 in cash from Shafer’s bedroom.
Investigators have seized a small fortune from a Mingo County doctor in a case that parallels the March 2nd raid of a Williamson pain clinic, the Mountain Medical Care Center. U.S. District Court papers disclose prosecutors are negotiating a plea deal with Dr. Diane Shafer, whom they suspect of improperly prescribing pills that led to the raid after agents tracked hundreds of people who entered the storefront clinic daily, paid between $150 and $450 cash, and left with pain drug prescriptions. No charges have been filed, and a lawyer for the clinic’s office manager says it treated legitimate patients. It's alleged Shafer’s illegal activities yielded more than $1.36 million last year alone. The emerging federal case against her could end a medical career that has often brought unwelcome headlines in which she repeatedly run afoul of the licensing boards in both West Virginia and Kentucky. She was convicted of bribery in 1993 after secretly marrying and giving $42,500 to the Kentucky official overseeing one of those ethics cases, which was dismissed. Her conviction was later overturned. The court filings and West Virginia Board of Medicine records show she surrendered her license in December, but is still listed as president of Mingo County’s chapter of the state medical association. Investigators pursued at least a dozen search or seizure warrants the day they raided the Williamson clinic. They targeted homes of its two main doctors, William Ryckman and Katherine Hoover, and office manager Myra Miller as well as bank accounts, a safety deposit box and Hoover‘s 2007 BMW convertible. Filings show the FBI searched a Williamson apartment shared by Hoover and Shafer, confiscating nearly $91,000 in cash from Shafer’s bedroom.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:05 AM
Former Wildcat Takes Plea Deal
KENTUCKY...
Former University of Kentucky basketball player Derrick Millar has pleaded guilty to selling season tickets he didn't have. Millar entered pleas to five counts of theft by deception in Fayette Circuit Court on Thursday. The commonwealth's attorney wants three years in prison for Millar on one count and 12 months each on the other four. The prosecutor is also recommending restitution of $13,500. Judge Kimberly Bunnell set Millar's sentencing for April 23.
Former University of Kentucky basketball player Derrick Millar has pleaded guilty to selling season tickets he didn't have. Millar entered pleas to five counts of theft by deception in Fayette Circuit Court on Thursday. The commonwealth's attorney wants three years in prison for Millar on one count and 12 months each on the other four. The prosecutor is also recommending restitution of $13,500. Judge Kimberly Bunnell set Millar's sentencing for April 23.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:51 AM
Floyd County Coal Operator Indicted
KENTUCKY...
The operator of a coal-mining company in Prestonsburg has been indicted on charges stemming from an alleged scheme to avoid paying workers compensation insurance. A federal grand jury in Lexington has charged Pamela Allen with five counts of mail fraud. Allen is listed in Thursday's indictment as the sole officer of Sly Branch Energy, an underground coal-mining operation. The indictment alleges that Allen underreported monthly payroll and the number of miners working for her to Kentucky Employers Mutual Insurance. She did this by creating a sham trucking company and placing many of her mining employees on that payroll. The indictment charges that by hiding employees this way she was able to pay less than full value for workers compensation insurance. Her arraignment date has not yet been set.
The operator of a coal-mining company in Prestonsburg has been indicted on charges stemming from an alleged scheme to avoid paying workers compensation insurance. A federal grand jury in Lexington has charged Pamela Allen with five counts of mail fraud. Allen is listed in Thursday's indictment as the sole officer of Sly Branch Energy, an underground coal-mining operation. The indictment alleges that Allen underreported monthly payroll and the number of miners working for her to Kentucky Employers Mutual Insurance. She did this by creating a sham trucking company and placing many of her mining employees on that payroll. The indictment charges that by hiding employees this way she was able to pay less than full value for workers compensation insurance. Her arraignment date has not yet been set.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:45 AM
