Breaking News . . .

Thursday, August 26, 2010

The body of SPC Christopher S. Wright was returned to his hometown of Tollesboro this morning, welcomed by hundreds who lined the route between Fleming-Mason Airport and Barbour and Son Funeral Home in Tollesboro.

The jet carrying Wright's remains touched down at the airport shortly after 9:00 a.m. Wright's remains were transferred to a waiting hearse in the presence of numerous members of the military, family, area law enforcement officials and dozens of Task Force Omega members.

The procession departed the airport and followed Ky. Rt. 11 to Flemingsburg then Ky. Rt. 57 to Tollesboro. Hundreds lined the roadways as the procession passed. Students from Tollesboro Elementary joined students from Tollesboro Christian School to observe the event. Many of those watching held signs of support for the fallen military hero.

Countless US Flags, signs and banners had been placed along the roadways and throughout Tollesboro, including at Tollesboro Christian Church, where the visitation and services will take place, and at Tollesboro Supply, a business operated by Wright's family.

Wright, 23, a graduate of Lewis County High School, died after being injured in a firefight in Konar Province in Afghanistan on August 18. He has been posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday and services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at Tollesboro Christian Church. Burial will be in East Fork Cemetery.

Monday, August 22, 2010

Further details have been released by the military concerning the death of Spc. Christopher S. Wright in Afghanistan.

A release indicated Wright, 23, was seriously wounded during a firefight with the enemy in Konar Province. He was treated immediately by unit medical personnel and was quickly evacuated to the nearest treatment facility where he later died of his wounds.

Wright enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 2004. He served as a rifleman in Co. A, 1st Bn., 5th Infantry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.; and, later with Co. A, 1st Bn., 2nd Armor Calvary Regiment, Vilseck, Germany. Wright most recently served as a squad automatic weapons gunner in Co. C, 1st Battalion, 75th Rgr. Regt. 

"Spc. Wright was the epitome of a Ranger - fierce warrior, incredibly competent, and dedicated to mission accomplishment. Spc. Wright died in a fire fight that ultimately killed three Taliban who were reportedly responsible for the death of two other U.S. servicemen," said Col. Michael E. Kurilla, commander of the 75th Rgr. Regt. "He is a hero to our Nation, the Army, and his family."  

Wright was on his third combat deployment. He previously deployed once to Afghanistan and once to Iraq.

“Spc. Wright was the epitome of a Ranger.  He was an incredibly talented young man, who volunteered to serve his Nation in a time of war and ultimately gave his life in her defense," said Lt. Col. Mike Foster, 1st Ranger Battalion commander.  “His loss is felt across the entire battalion and our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family."

Survivors include his father, James Cochran, and stepmother, Michele Cochran, of Tollesboro; and his mother, Linda Dennis of Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Funeral arrangements remain incomplete.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

A Tollesboro soldier serving in Iraq has died as the result of injuries.

Christopher Wright, at 2005 Lewis County High School graduate, reportedly died as the result of injuries received while on his second tour of duty in Iraq.

Wright is the son of Jim Cochran of Tollesboro.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

 Residents in Lewis and Carter counties who suffered damages during the July severe storms and flooding will be able to get one-on-one information about federal and state disaster assistance programs at Disaster Recovery Centers beginning this week.

The centers will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 10, through Saturday, August 14, at the following locations:

The centers are staffed by Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Individuals are encouraged to register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling toll-free
800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585.

Disaster recovery specialists at the centers can check an individual's application status, answer questions, or review information needed to process their application. Recovery specialists also can supply contacts for other state, federal and voluntary agency programs that may be able to help.

SBA representatives will be there to answer any questions about the SBA's low-interest disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses and private non-profit organizations of all sizes. SBA representatives are available to assist with completing and submitting disaster loan applications.

FEMA mitigation specialists are also at the centers with information on flood insurance and how to rebuild safer and stronger after a flood.

Local emergency managers also have information for people with unmet needs.  A list of all county emergency managers can be found at www.kyem.ky.gov.

Additional information, photos and links for this and other open disasters can be found at www.kyem.ky.gov and www.fema.gov.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.  If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY call 800-462-7585.

FEMA's temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan.

However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to the SBA to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

A Charters man is dead and his common-law wife is in critical condition following an incident this morning at the woman's home on Holly Road.

Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens said the incident happened about 10:00 a.m. at the residence of of Shirley Thurman, 59, and her son. Bivens said Fred Bevins, 72, had been hiding behind the residence and when Thurman stepped onto the front porch to talk with her landlord, Bevins appeared and shot Thurman in the back then turned the gun on himself.

Thurman was airlifted to Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, and Bevins was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Coroner Jim Estepp.

On April 27, Bevins was arrested and charged with third degree arson and fourth degree assault by the Lewis County Sheriff's Department. The charges resulted after Bevins allegedly assaulted Thurman and set their Holly Road residence on fire.

Bivens said Lewis County Family Court issued a Domestic Violence Order prohibiting Bevins from communicating with Thurman, remain at least 1,000 feet from Thurman and her residence, and not possess any firearms for the duration of the DVO, which was effective until May 6, 2013.

Bivens said Bevins was released from the Lewis County Detention Center on July 9 on a $40,000 property bond.

The incident remains under investigation by Deputy Gary Sparks, Deputy Jason Hill and Bivens. They were assisted at the scene by MedCorp Ambulance.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Federal Emergency Management Agency officials today announced the addition of three Kentucky counties to the disaster declaration for July severe storms, flooding and mudslides.

"These hard-hit counties need all the assistance they can get," said Gov. Steve Beshear.  "I appreciate FEMA working quickly to see that their needs are met, and my administration will continue to work with folks on the ground to help all Kentuckians impacted."

Residents in Carter and Lewis counties can now register for Individual Assistance, which can include grants for homeowners and renters to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.

Local governments in Carter, Elliott and Lewis counties are now eligible to apply for funding under FEMA's Public Assistance program to pay for emergency measures, debris removal and to repair and replace infrastructure damaged by the storms.

Five Kentucky counties are now eligible for some type of federal disaster assistance from FEMA for July flooding: Carter, Lewis and Pike for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance; Elliott and Shelby for Public Assistance only.  Additional counties may be added as damage assessments are completed.

"Homeowners and renters in Carter, Lewis and Pike counties should register with FEMA as soon as possible," Federal Coordinating Officer Doug Mayne said. 

Register by going online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling toll-free 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585.

Monday, August 2, 2010

Authorities are investigating an accident involving two four-wheelers this afternoon on Laurel Road near the Lewis/Carter County line.

Deputy Gary Sparks said a Honda 400-EX operated by Blake Enix, 16, was traveling north on the roadway. The four-wheeler was being followed by a Honda TRX-400 operated by Trent Ryan, 16.

Sparks said the leading four-wheeler slowed and was struck in the rear by the second four-wheeler causing the second four-wheeler to go off the right side of the roadway and into a creek bed.

Ryan and a passenger on the second four-wheeler, Michael Garvin, 16, were thrown from the vehicle and Enix was also thrown from the vehicle he was operating. All three teenagers are from the Walnut Grove Ridge area in Carter County, according to Sparks.

Sparks said a motorist came by on the roadway shortly after the accident and called for help. Members of the Camp Dix Fire and Rescue Squad responded along with Med Corp Ambulance. Garvin was airlifted from the scene to St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, while Enix and Ryan were taken to St. Claire Medical Center in Morehead for treatment, according to Sparks.

The accident remains under investigation by Deputy Tom Polley and Deputy Sparks.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

A former Lewis County Deputy Sheriff has been charged with drug trafficking following an incident at the Tollesboro Lions Club Fairgrounds.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department said Brent "Chebee" Nolder, 56, of Tollesboro, was arrested after allegedly selling a quantity of Percocet to a confidential informant at the fair Saturday night.

The spokesman said Nolder was in possession of marked money that was used in the alleged transaction that was captured on video surveillance.

Nolder is the fourth person arrested by the Lewis County Sheriff's Department that had served as a deputy under previous administrations, according to the spokesman.

Nolder was charged with first degree trafficking in a controlled substance and first degree possession of a controlled substance. He was lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center.

The incident remains under investigation by Deputy Dwayne Stone and Deputy Tom Polley. They were assisted by Deputy Gary Sparks, Deputy Joe Templeman, Deputy Jason Hill and Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens.

Friday, July 23, 2010

A Burtonville man was arrested and charged last night in connection with manufacturing and possessing methamphetamine.

Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens said he and other deputies responded to a residence on Mulligan Hollow Road in the Burtonville Community in regards to illegal drug activity. He said deputies were investigating multiple complaints that individuals were making "meth" in an outbuilding.

Bivens said as deputies approached the area they saw a male running from the rear of the residence carrying a propane cylinder, a large knife and other items. He said deputies pursued and apprehended Kevin Cropper, 38, of Burtonville.

He said Cropper was found to be in possession of a white powdery substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine. Bivens added Cropper also possessed a glass cylinder commonly used to smoke meth.

Other items discovered at the location, according to Bivens, were several packs of batteries, containers of Coleman fuel, numerous packs of psuedophedrine tablets, propane tanks and a hose used to drain anhydrous ammonia from LP tanks.

Cropper was arrested and lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center on charges of manufacturing methamphetamine and first degree possession of a controlled substance.

Bivens was assisted at the scene by Deputy Tom Polley, Deputy Dwayne Stone, Deputy Joe Templeman and Deputy Gary Sparks.

LCSO Photo

Friday, July 23, 2010

Cleanup efforts continue this morning following flash flooding across Lewis County early Wednesday.

Lewis County Road Department Supervisor Dane Howard said 45 roadways in the county have moderate to severe damage with 15 of those roadways inaccessible. He said the southern part of the county received the most damage. The areas included Emerson, Laurel, Grassy, Camp Dix, Petersville and Indian Creek. Moderate damage is reported in and around the Big Cabin Creek and Crooked Creek areas.

A declaration of emergency was signed Wednesday by Judge Executive Steve Applegate and was forwarded to Governor Steve Beshear for review. Requests for assistance have also been made.

Preliminary damage assessments total $503,745.

Representatives have toured the damaged areas and will assist in applying for assistance from the federal government and for a federal emergency declaration for the county.

Howard said crews will continue to work to get all county roadways reopened.

Ky. Rt. 59 at Old Trace Bridge near the Carter County line remains closed to all traffic. Ky. Rt. 57 at the Lewis/Fleming County line has been reopened to traffic after the bridge was determined to be safe by highway engineers, according to Allen Blair with the Kentucky Department of Transportation.

Boil water advisories remain in effect for several areas around the county as workers continue to work to restore water and electric service to some areas.

Anyone having damage to property that has not yet been reported should contact Lewis County Emergency Management at 606-796-3464 or the Lewis County Judge Executive's Office at 606-796-2722.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Flash flooding overnight has resulted in widespread damage in Lewis County including numerous road closures and destroyed or damaged homes.

Emergency Management Director Carl Chaney said an emergency was declared in the county this morning and crews are continuing to assess damage.

Roadways remaining closed include Ky. Rt. 57 at the Fleming-Lewis County Line, Ky. Rt. 59 at Old Trace Bridge and Big Cabin Creek. Water remained over the roadway at several locations in the county, primarily on Kinney and Lower Kinney Roads. Trace Creek Road also remained covered on Wednesday evening.

Chaney said he had requested assistance from the Red Cross and that additional road equipment had been requested from neighboring counties to help with repairs and getting roadways reopened. A supply of drinking water has been requested for those in need.

Chaney said some 400 households are without water service and about 300 homes are without electricity following the overnight downpours.

Between five and eight inches of rainfall was recorded overnight in various locations across the county.

Chaney said he has been in contact with various state and federal agencies to request assistance for those affected by the flooding. He said 50 homes, not including the ones damaged in the May flooding, were damaged to some extent by the early morning flooding.

Click HERE to see photos.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Lewis County Sheriff's Deputy Dwayne Stone is investigating at two vehicle accident shortly before 9:00 a.m. on the AA Highway between Oakland Park and Lions Lane.

Stone said a tractor-trailer licensed to Kreilkamp Trucking of Allentown, Wisconson, was traveling west on the highway and a Toyota Scion, operated by Debbie Kegley of Vanceburg, was traveling east.

The Scion struck the rear wheels of the tractor, and trailer wheels, causing extensive damage to the front left  and driver's door of the Scion. He said the rig was hauling alcohol and received moderate damage.

Kegley was transported for treatment by MedCorp Ambulance.

Stone is being assisted by Deputy Joe Templeman. Assisting at the scene were members of Vanceburg and Lewis County Fire and Rescue units, MedCorp Ambulance, Wills Towing and Bradford Towing.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Kentucky State Police report the missing boy, Matthew Austin Caudill, was located this morning by the Olive Hill Police Department and is back home, safe and unharmed.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Authorities are looking for a missing Lewis County boy.

According to a release from the Morehead Post of the Kentucky State Police, Matthew Austin Caudill walked away from his home on Ky. 59 near the Lewis and Carter County line sometime this morning and has not been seen since. 

He is 12 years old, five feet-two inches tall and weighs 86 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. The juvenile was last seen wearing a pair of white and orange Nike shoes. 

He has Asthma but does not have his medication with him. Matthew may be enroute to the Olive Hill area in Carter Co. 

Anyone with information about Mathew please contact the Kentucky State Police in Morehead at 606-784-4127. 

Monday, July 12, 2010

Deputy Tom Polley is investigating a two vehicle accident this afternoon that sent three people to the hospital.

Polley said the accident happened about 12:30 p.m. on Ky. Rt. 8 at Quincy Curve.

Polley said a 2004 Ford Escort, operated by Paul Cooper, 36, of Garrison and a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado pick-up, operated by Jan Bolander, 26, of Garrison, were traveling west on the roadway.

Polley said the Cooper vehicle had stopped to pick up "Doc" Martin Wilburn and was struck in the rear by the pick-up.

Paul Cooper and a passenger in the Escort, Michelle Cooper, 33, of Garrison, were taken to Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, by ambulance. Bolander was taken to the hospital by private vehicle. 

Members of the Garrison and Black Oak Fire and Rescue Squads assisted at the scene. Polley is continuing the investigation into the accident.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Three Vanceburg men have been charged in connection with the assault of John and Anita Billman at their home on June 24.

Vanceburg Police Lt. Tom Flannigan said officers were acting on a tip when they charged Jackie Lyons, 18, Chris Lyons, 21, and Rodney Butler, 21, all of Vanceburg. Butler and Chris Lyons were in jail on other charges when they were charged in connection with the assault on Saturday. Jackie Lyons was arrested Saturday and lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center.

Flannigan said Butler confessed to his involvement in the robbery.

John and Anita Billman were assaulted and robbed by three men at their home. The Billmans were taken to Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, for treatment. Anita Billman was treated and released while John Billman was hospitalized overnight with a broken arm and other injuries. He died at his home on June 29. It is unknown if the death was in connection with the assault.

The robbers took about $900 in cash and prescription medication, according to Officer Joe Paul Gilbert, who is investigating both the robbery and John Billman’s death.

Flannigan said Anita Billman, 38, was arrested three days following John Billman’s death for allegedly trying to cash a Social Security check made out to John Billman.

He said she allegedly first took the check to Citizens Deposit Bank where a teller refused to cash it because the payee was deceased, he said she later also tried to cash it at Lewis County Foodland.

Anita Billman was charged with first degree criminal possession of a forged instrument. She allegedly signed John Billman’s name along with her own on the back of the check, according to Flannigan.

Investigations in to all of the incidents are continuing.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Vanceburg Police Chief Joe Billman was injured last night when he attempted to enter a burning home.

Vanceburg Police Lt. Tom Flannigan said Billman responded to a fire at the home of John and Anita Billman on Billman Lane off Slate Hollow in Vanceburg. The fire was reported about 9:00 p.m. Thursday. John Billman, who is Joe Billman's brother, died at the home Tuesday morning.

Flannigan said Joe Billman believed John Billman's wife, Anita, was inside the home and kicked in the front door resulting in a rush of flames out of the door causing second degree burns to about 25 percent of Joe Billman's body. It was later discovered that no one was inside the home at the time of the fire. Joe Billman was taken by private vehicle to Meadowview Regional Medical Center in Maysville and then transferred to the University of Cincinnati Hospital Burn Unit.

Flannigan said the fire is being investigated as arson and is under investigation by the Kentucky State Police Arson Unit.

Vanceburg Police Officer Joe Paul Gilbert is investigating John Billman's death. Gilbert said Anita Billman discovered that her husband was unresponsive Tuesday morning. He was pronounced dead by Lewis County Coroner Tony Gaydos.

Gilbert is also investigating an assault and robbery of John and Anita Billman on June 24. Gilbert said three men broke into the home at about 2:00 a.m. and assaulted the couple before taking a quantity of prescription medications and some cash. He said John Billman suffered a broken arm, an injury over his right eye, and bruises on his legs and ribs in the incident.

Gilbert said an autopsy has been performed on John Billman and results are pending. He didn't speculate on whether or not the incidents were related.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Two individuals were arrested early this morning after they were caught allegedly attempting to break into a soft drink machine in Tollesboro.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department said numerous reports of similar thefts have been reported across the county during the previous couple of days. The vehicle used by the two matched the one caught on surveillance videos where the thefts previously occurred.

The spokesman said Deputy Jason Hill, who is on medical leave, noticed the suspect vehicle parked in front of Himes Grocery in Tollesboro at about 1:00 a.m. and contacted Deputy Joe Templeman for assistance. A padlock had been cut off the machine and the two suspects were reportedly attempting to gain entry to the machine when they were apprehended without incident.

Danny Proctor, 37, and Melony Combs, 31, both of Richwood, West Virginia, were charged with third degree criminal trespassing, third degree criminal mischief, possession of burglary tools and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges are pending.

Deputy Templeman is continuing the investigation along with Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens. They are being assisted by Deputy Jason Hill.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

A telephoned bomb threat resulted in the evacuation of the offices of the Lewis County Justice Center and Lewis County Courthouse. Workers and others were allowed to return to the facilities after no explosive devices were located.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Office said the call was placed to the Court Clerk's Office in the Justice Center at about 10:15 a.m. The deputy clerk who answered the call immediately notified the sheriff's office and other workers.

The spokesman said the caller reportedly told the deputy clerk that as many as three devices had been placed in the area of the justice center but did not indicate where they may be.

The spokesman said the offices in the justice center were evacuated and, as a precaution, the adjacent courthouse was also evacuated while officials looked for suspicious items.

The court clerk's office, courtrooms and judge's chambers are located in the justice center. Offices in the courthouse include PVA, county clerk, judge executive, county attorney, county treasurer and sheriff's office. A spokesman said all offices except the sheriff's office were evacuated during that time.

Deputy Tom Polley said the call was apparently a hoax, although all such calls are taken seriously. He said those involved in the threat will be charged and prosecuted.

Officials gave the all clear signal and allowed workers to return to their offices about 11:00 a.m.

Troopers with KSP Post 8 assisted in searching the buildings. Anyone who may have information on the person or persons making the threat should contact authorities.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Eight men with the Lewis County School System were injured this afternoon when an outside stairway collapsed at the Central Office on Plummer Lane in Vanceburg.

Nick Adams, Director of District Services, said the men were on the stairway as people were taking photos following a cookout at the Central Office on the last day of classes for students. The accident happened about 12:45 p.m.

"We were celebrating a successful year," Adams said. "The top section of the stairway collapsed and eight people went down." He said the men fell from between six and 10 feet.

Adams said the injured included:

Jason Hill   -  Lower back pain

Mike Forman  -  Broken ankle and rib

Kevin Duff  -  Concussion

Steve Henderson – Chest pains

Gary Kidwell – Broken rib and arm injuries

Stanley Allen – Bruises and scratches

Stub McGlone – Scrapes

Rick Evans – Hurt ankle

Adams said the Vanceburg Fire Department, Sheriff Bill Lewis and Emergency Management Director Carl Chaney assisted the Ambulance service at the scene.

One of the men was airlifted to a Huntington, West Virginia, hospital, two were taken by ambulance and three by private vehicle to area hospitals.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Former Lewis County Clerk Shirley Hinton received five years probation in Carter County Circuit Court. Hinton appeared before Special Judge Rebecca Phillips for sentencing. She had earlier pleaded guilty to charges of theft, filing false income tax returns and official misconduct.

She pled guilty in April to the charges filed against her by a Lewis County grand jury. The indictment in January of this year included six counts of theft of funds over $500, six counts of filing a false income tax return, and one count of official misconduct.  

The Commonwealth recommended a sentence of six years, withheld on supervised probation, which was conditional upon Hinton paying fines, costs, taxes, and additional restitution. Hinton paid all amounts due at her guilty plea, totaling approximately $29,130. 

The indictment and plea were the result of referral of audits by the Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts and an investigation by the Attorney General's Department of Criminal Investigations, with assistance by the Kentucky Department of Revenue Division of Special Investigations. The case was handled by the Attorney General's Office of Special Prosecutions under the Attorney General's jurisdiction to prosecute crimes involving county financial administration and at the request of local Commonwealth's Attorney Cliff Duvall.  

Hinton, 74, will only serve jail time if conditions of the probation are violated. Hinton retired from the position in May 2009. She had served as Lewis County Clerk since 1970 and had worked in the clerk's office since 1954.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Authorities have arrested a suspect in the robbery of the South Portsmouth Office of Citizens Deposit Bank on Thursday.

Sheriff Bill Lewis said Stanley Purtee, 44, of Portsmouth, Ohio, was arrested early this morning in Portsmouth. He was lodged in the Scioto County Detention Center where he will remain pending an extradition hearing pending charges of first degree robbery in Lewis County.

Lewis said Purtee allegedly went to a Portsmouth car dealer where he obtained a black Monte Carlo for a test drive, drove to the bank then returned the auto to the dealer. 

Lewis said authorities tentatively identified the suspect, obtained a mugshot from Ohio authorities and Purtee was identified as the suspect from a photo lineup.

Lewis said Purtee was free on bond awaiting trial on the January robbery of the Atomic Credit Union in Portsmouth.

Deputy Dwayne Stone is investigating the incident. He is being assisted by Deputy Tom Polley, Deputy Gary Sparks and Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens, the FBI, Scioto County Sheriff's Department and Portsmouth Police.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Authorities have recovered the black Monte Carlo used by a suspect in the robbery of the South Portsmouth Office of Citizens Deposit Bank on Thursday.

Sheriff Bill Lewis said officials with the Kentucky State Police, FBI and departments in Ohio have joined in on the case and an arrest is pending.

He said the suspect apparently crossed into Ohio after leaving the bank following the robbery.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Officials are investigating an armed bank robbery that happened about Noon today at the South Portsmouth Office of Citizens Deposit Bank.

Deputy Dwayne Stone said the robber walked into the bank, displayed a firearm to tellers and demanded money. He left the bank with an undetermined amount of cash in a 2000, or similar model, black Monte Carlo and traveled east on Ky. Rt. 8. The suspect also reportedly told tellers he would detonate something if they didn't comply with his demand.

Stone said the suspect is described as a scruffy looking white male, wearing driving glasses with black frames. He was wearing a ball cap and a white lab coat with a blue emblem on the left chest area.

Stone said investigators from the Lewis County Sheriff's Department and Kentucky State Police are reviewing evidence including video surveillance and an item recovered at the bank.

Bank President Mike Mineer said no one was injured in the incident, although the tellers were shaken-up. Mineer credited law enforcement for their quick response to the scene. He said the bank office would be closed for the remainder of the day and that the drive-through would be open on Friday.

Anyone who may have information concerning the robbery or suspect is urged to contact the Lewis County Sheriff's Office at 606-796-2912.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Officials have tabulated the votes from those who cast their ballots, completing the task at about 8:30 p.m. on the third floor of the Lewis County Courthouse.

Thomas Massie won the Republican nomination for Lewis County Judge Executive and will face-off against Democrat Anita Gilbert in the November General Election. It was a close race in the second magisterial district as incumbent Paul Bruce Swearingen won by one vote over challenger Harry Carrington. Swearingen will face Democrat Danny McCane in November.

Glenda Himes won the race for Lewis County Clerk; Johnny Bivens won for Sheriff of Lewis County; Chris McCane won for Lewis County Jailer; David Lancaster won for District One Constable; Aaron Gilbert won for District Two Constable; and Larry Colley won for District Three Constable. There is no opposition for any of those seats in November.

In the Primary race for 96th District State Representative, Jill York carried both Lewis and Carter Counties for the Republican nomination. Barry Webb won in Lewis County and lost in Carter County to David Hayes for the Democratic nomination. Hayes garnered enough votes to win the Democratic nomination and will face York in November.

Candidates unopposed in both the Primary and General Elections are PVA Anthony Silvey, County Attorney Thomas M. Bertram, Surveyor Michael Ruggles, District One Magistrate Milt Stanfield, District Three Magistrate Joe Bentley and Coroner Tony Gaydos.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

People in eight Kentucky counties - Casey, Lewis, Lincoln, Logan, Metcalfe, Rockcastle, Rowan and Woodford - are now eligible for help from the state and the Federal Emergency Management Agency as they recover from severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and tornadoes that struck the Commonwealth beginning May 1.

Anyone who experienced damages in any of the designated counties may complete an online application at www.disasterassistance.gov or apply by phone by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 for people with speech or hearing disabilities. The toll-free numbers are available seven days a week, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. until further notice.  Help in other languages is available.

State and federal disaster officials say those who have losses from the disaster should apply as soon as possible; they do not have to wait for an insurance inspection to begin the registration process.

Filing damage reports with state or county emergency managers or voluntary agencies will not start the federal disaster assistance process. You must register to start the process.

When applying for help, be sure to have the following information available:

·       Your current telephone number.

·       Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you now are staying.

·       Your Social Security number, if available.

·       A general list of damages and losses you suffered.

·       If insured, the name of your company or agent and your policy number.

·       Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance by using direct deposit.

Kentucky Emergency Management officials encourage all who suffered losses to document the damage to your home, or business, by photographing the damage and saving any receipts associated to those repairs.  Report your losses to your local emergency management director.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Lewis County residents affected by flooding on May 1 and 2 are eligible for federal assistance after President Obama made the disaster declaration yesterday. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding also is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and tornadoes in the counties of Allen, Hart, Lewis, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Rockcastle.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire Commonwealth.

FEMA named Douglas G. Mayne as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.  Mayne said that damage surveys are continuing in other areas, and additional counties may be designated for assistance after the assessments are fully completed.

FEMA said that residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance today by registering online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (local time).

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Lewis County was included in a Federal Declaration this afternoon and will received federal aid for government and individual assistance. Gov. Steve Beshear made the announcement shortly before 4:00 p.m.

“I appreciate President Obama’s timely response and declaration of a federal disaster for Kentucky in response to the severe flooding that heavily damaged more than two-thirds of our counties,” said Beshear.  “The declaration allows for assistance for individuals and local governments – aid that will help our families and businesses recover more quickly from these devastating floods.”

The federal government has designated Individual Assistance (aid for individuals and households) for eight counties:  Casey, Lewis, Lincoln , Logan , Metcalfe, Rockcastle, Rowan and Woodford.

Public Assistance (aid for state and local governments and certain private nonprofit agencies) is approved for seven counties:  Allen, Hart, Lewis, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe and Rockcastle.

A team from the Small Business Administration is in Kentucky now; the disaster declaration means that businesses may begin submitting applications for loans to assist in the recovery.  Those registrations will be coordinated by the small business assessment teams at the county level. 

“I will continue to work toward getting all affected counties their designations for proper federal assistance,” continued Beshear.  “Our damage assessment teams remain in the counties affected by flooding.  Many across the Commonwealth will need assistance rebuilding, and the federal aid will help our communities recover as quickly as possible.”

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

A Charters man was arrested and charged with arson Tuesday after allegedly setting a fire that destroyed his home.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department said the department received a call about 5:52 p.m. Tuesday with information that Fred Bevins, 71, was threatening to burn his home down. The spokesman said the caller told dispatchers that Bevins had poured 15 gallons of gasoline through the residence that he shares with his family, it was also reported that Bevins was seen loading two firearms inside the residence.

The spokesman said Shirley Thurman, and their son, Freddy Bevins, vacated the residence immediately and called 911. He added calls were received shortly afterwards reporting a large explosion at the residence.

The spokesman said when deputies arrived the residence was fully engulfed by fire. Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens and Deputy Gary Sparks located Fred Bevins across the road from the residence with minor burns. He was treated by personnel with MedCorp Ambulance and released. He was charged with third degree arson, a class D felony, and lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center.

Tollesboro and Lewis County Fire Departments responded to the scene, the home was totally destroyed by the fire.

Chief Deputy Bivens is continuing the investigation. He was assisted at the scene by Deputy Joe Templeman, Deputy Jason Hill, Deputy Gary Sparks and Kentucky State Police.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Two Garrison men were charged Monday evening with illegally trafficking in a controlled substance.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department said Johnny Gillespie, 32, at Tracy Rickett, 45, both of Garrison, were arrested after allegedly selling a quantity of Oxycontin to a confidential informant. The spokesman said the incident happened on Garrison Lane at Gillespie's residence. He said both Rickett and Gillespie were in possession of the marked money used in the transaction.

The spokesman said that when deputies raided the residence they discovered quantities of prescription medications and marijuana, some of which had been concealed in a light fixture in one of the living areas of the residence. He said records of alleged drug transactions, cell phones and about $500 in cash were seized from the residence.

Both men were charged with first degree trafficking in a controlled substance and lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center.

The incident remains under investigation by Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens and Deputy Dwayne Stone. They were assisted by Deputy Tom Polley, Deputy Gary Sparks and Deputy Jason Hill.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Attorney General Jack Conway and his Office of Special Prosecutions announced the conviction, by guilty plea, of former Lewis County Clerk Shirley Hinton, 74, of Vanceburg. The former clerk pled guilty Friday to the charges filed against her by a Lewis County grand jury. The indictment in January of this year included six counts of theft of funds over $500, six counts of filing a false income tax return, and one count of official misconduct.

Hinton admitted that, in six of the years between 1999 and 2009, she unlawfully took public funds for her personal benefit in her capacity as Lewis County Clerk, in a scheme that involved replacing part of the stolen funds with new sources of cash as a new year arrived. Hinton was discovered in 2008 to have accumulated remaining shortages totaling $25,000 as a result of the scheme, which she repaid before the completion of the criminal investigation. Hinton also admitted to filing false fiscal reports for each of the years in question.

The Commonwealth is recommending a sentence of six years, withheld on supervised probation, all of which is conditional upon Hinton paying fines, costs, taxes, and additional restitution. Hinton paid all amounts due today at her guilty plea, totaling approximately $29,130. She will be sentenced in Carter Circuit Court on May 21 at 2:30 p.m.

The indictment and plea is the result of referral of audits by the Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts and an investigation by the Attorney General's Department of Criminal Investigations, with assistance by the Kentucky Department of Revenue Division of Special Investigations. The case is being handled by the Attorney General's Office of Special Prosecutions under the Attorney General's jurisdiction to prosecute crimes involving county financial administration and at the request of local Commonwealth's Attorney Cliff Duvall.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

The Vanceburg Electric Plant Board named Bill Tom Stone as Interim Superintendent for the local utility company during a regular meeting last night.

Stone will replace Superintendent Eric Bloomfield on June 1. He will go in as Interim Superintendent on May 3.

Bloomfield stepped down from the position after accepting a job as a controller of a regional bank in Portsmouth, Ohio.

Stone is a Black Oak resident, a graduate of Lewis County High School and Morehead State University. He is currently employed by Emerson Power Transmission in Maysville.

Also during the Plant Board meeting, Bloomfield announced he had met with Kentucky Power and AEP officials to discuss electric rates charged to the local utility company. He said the new rate will be essentially the same as the current rate. He added the annual "true-up" will be somewhat less this year.

"At this point we do not foresee a rate increase for our customers," he told board members.

Friday, March 26, 2010

The Vanceburg Police Department and members of the FIVCO Area Drug Enforcement (FADE) Task Force conducted a roundup Thursday evening and made seven drug related arrests of individuals charged with trafficking in controlled substances.

The arrests came as a result of indictments obtained following covert investigations into illicit drug activity in the area, according to Vanceburg Police Chief Joe Billman.

Billman said the Vanceburg Police Department has been affiliated with FADE for about 15 months and this is the third such roundup conducted as a result of the partnership.

“There have been 64 cases opened in Lewis County since we joined FADE,” Billman said, adding that investigations are ongoing and more arrests are pending as a result of the joint investigations.

Those arrested include:

*Mark Meece, 22, of Black Oak, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance.

*Rex Littleton, 23, of Black Oak, charged with two counts of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance.

*Dusty Carrington, 26, of Echo Hills, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance.

*Derrick Shumate, 27, of Vanceburg, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance and persistent felony offender, 1st.

*Joshua Heater, 23, of Vanceburg, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance.

*Jarod Rankis, 21, of Tollesboro, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance and one count of first degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance.

*Ron Meadows, 20, of Tollesboro, charged with one count of first degree trafficking in a controlled substance and one count of first degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance.

All of those arrested were lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

A Vanceburg woman was airlifted following an accident this morning on Ky. Rt. 59 in Vanceburg.

Vanceburg Police Chief Joe Billman said the single vehicle accident happened shortly after 9:00 a.m. near Moore and White Lumber Company as an auto operated by Dennis E. Flinders, 52, of Vanceburg was traveling north on the roadway.

Billman said Flinders apparently lost control of the vehicle. He said the auto dropped off the right side of the roadway and struck a drainage pipe, causing the vehicle to overturn and land on its top in the roadway.

A passenger in the vehicle, Betty Kennard, 66, was extricated by rescue workers utilizing the Jaws of Life. She was airlifted to St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia. Billman said Flinders was not injured in the accident.

Billman said Flinders was arrested and charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol with aggravating circumstances. He was lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center. Billman said Flinders' blood alcohol content was measured at 0.177. The legal limit is 0.08.

Billman, who is continuing the investigation into the accident, was assisted at the scene by members of the Vanceburg Fire and Rescue Squad and MedCorp Ambulance.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

The Lewis County Board of Education made some changes to the school calendar to make up days missed because of bad weather.

Board members approved using the first four days of Spring Break (April 12-15) as make-up days along with one banked day. March 18 and 19 had earlier been approved as make-up days.

The last day of school for students is now scheduled as June 4

Monday, March 8, 2010

Fire destroyed a Vanceburg home Monday afternoon, according to Vanceburg Fire Chief Carl Chaney.

Chaney said the fire, on Fairlane Drive near Central Elementary School, is thought to be electrical but the cause remains under investigation.

Firefighters from Vanceburg, Black Oak and Garrison Fire Departments responded to the call at the home of Josh Lewis at the corner of Fairlane Drive and Walter Steet.

Firefighters were assisted at the scene by members of the Vanceburg Police Department.

Monday, February 22, 2010

A Garrison man was injured in a single vehicle accident at Quincy early Sunday according to a spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department.

Deputy Dwayne Stone responded to the accident about 2:15 a.m. Sunday on Ky. Rt. 8 at Cole Bivens Lane in Quincy. Stone said Gary Willis, 41, of Garrison, was operating a 1997 Toyota Avalon east on Ky. Rt. 8 when the vehicle dropped off the right side of the roadway, traveled 192 feet and impacted a driveway Culvert.

Stone said the vehicle then went airborne and traveled 48 feet before hitting the ground and overturning twice, coming to rest after hitting a tree. Willis was apparently thrown from the vehicle, according to Stone.

Willis was airlifted from the scene to St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, for treatment.

Stone is continuing the investigation into the accident. He was assisted at the scene by Garrison Fire and Rescue, MedCorp Ambulance and Healthnet medical helicopter.

Friday, February 19, 2010

A suspect in a shooting incident on Montgomery Road has been returned to Lewis County after waiving extradition in North Carolina.

Wesley Bernard Allen, 45, was taken into the Lewis County Detention Center about 2:30 this afternoon by Deputy Dwayne Stone and Deputy Tom Polley. The deputies traveled to Durham County, North Carolina, on Thursday and returned with the suspect today.

Allen will face charges in connection with the shooting of John Jamison at Jamison's home on Montgomery Road on January 15.

Allen was apprehended in North Carolina on Sunday, January 24, according to Stone.

Gary Robinson, 62, of Ashland was arrested earlier and charged with complicity to commit assault in the incident. Sheriff Bill Lewis said investigators believe Robinson hired Allen to kill Jamison. He added Allen may have been injured by Jamison as the two shot at each other at Jamison's home.

Jamison remains hospitalized at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Saturday, February 6, 2010

A Tollesboro woman was arrested and charged last night in connection with a fire that destroyed a home the woman shared with her boyfriend.

According to a spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department, deputies received a complaint of an out-of-control woman at a residence on Ky. Rt. 10 in Tollesboro Friday night. The spokesman said Deputy Jason Hill responded to the residence to find the second floor of the home on fire.

The female suspect had exited through an upstairs back door and was located on the porch of a residence next door, according to the spokesman. 

Carol Chambers, 41, was arrested and charged with first degree arson, first degree criminal mischief, third degree criminal mischief and five counts of first degree wanton endangerment. She was lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center under $50,000 bond.

Deputies believe Chambers started the fire on an upstairs couch. The spokesman said Chambers had reportedly made threats and directed aggression towards the family prior to the fire.

Firefighters from Tollesboro, Lewis County, Orangeburg and Washington-Maysville Fire Departments responded to the call and were on the scene for more than four hours.

Deputy Hill is continuing the investigation into the incident. He was assisted at the scene by Deputy Joe Templeman, Deputy Dwayne Stone and Constable David Lancaster.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Firefighters were called to the home of Dennis Plummer on Slate Church Road in Vanceburg today.

Vanceburg Fire Chief Carl Chaney said the home was destroyed by fire during the early afternoon hours. Chaney said the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Firefighters from Vanceburg, Black Oak, Lewis County and Camp Dix Fire Departments responded to the call.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

A suspect in a shooting incident on Montgomery Road has been has been apprehended in North Carolina according to Lewis County Deputy Sheriff Dwayne Stone.

Stone said at about 9:00 p.m. that he had received confirmation from authorities in Durham County, North Carolina, that Wesley Bernard Allen had been apprehended.

Stone said the process is already underway to get the suspect extradited back to Kentucky to face the charges connected with the shooting of John Jamison at his home on Montgomery Road on January 15.

Stone said Durham County authorities told him the suspect had facial injuries which were believed to have occurred when the shooting incident happened.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

A suspect has been named in a shooting incident last week on Montgomery Road at Garrison.

Sheriff Bill Lewis said Wesley Bernard Allen, 45, of North Carolina, is thought to be the shooter in an incident which seriously injured John Jamison. Lewis said Allen was identified by video from a security system in a South Shore gas station.

Gary Robinson, 62, of Ashland was arrested earlier and charged with complicity to commit assault in the incident. Lewis said investigators believe Robinson hired Allen to kill Jamison. He added Allen may have been injured by Jamison as the two shot at each other Friday morning at Jamison's home.

Jamison is reportedly in serious condition at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Attorney General Jack Conway and his Office of Special Prosecutions today announced the indictment of former Lewis County Clerk Shirley Hinton, 74, of Vanceburg. A Lewis County grand jury indicted Hinton Friday on six counts of theft by failure to make required disposition of property over $300, six counts of filing a false income tax return and one count of official misconduct first degree.

The indictment alleges that, in each year from 1999 to 2008, Hinton took money in excess of $300 from the Lewis County Clerk’s Office while she acted as County Clerk and that she willfully filed a false personal income tax return in each of those years.

The charges are the result of an investigation and audit by the Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts and investigations by General Conway’s Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Kentucky Department of Revenue. The case was presented to the grand jury by the Attorney General’s Office of Special Prosecutions.

Hinton is represented by attorney Lloyd Spear of Vanceburg and is cooperating with investigators during this process.

A charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Monday, January 18, 2010

A Firebrick man has died as the result of an auto-train accident at a railroad crossing on Shawnee Lane early Monday.

A spokesman with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department said authorities were notified of the accident shortly after Midnight Monday.

He said deputies responded to discover a westbound Amtrak train had struck a 2004 Ford F-150 pick-up in the driver's side.

The spokesman said the pick-up operator, William J. McCray, 31, of Firebrick, had been ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead by Lewis County Coroner Tony Gaydos.

The accident remains under investigation by Deputy Dwayne Stone. He was assisted at the scene by Deputy Jason Hill, Chief Deputy Johnny Bivens, Firebrick Fire and Rescue Squad, Garrison Fire and Rescue, MedCorp Ambulance, CSX and Amtrak Police.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

An Ashland man has been arrested and charged in connection with a shooting incident on Montgomery Road Friday morning.

Sheriff Bill Lewis said Gary Robinson, 62, was arrested in Greenup County Friday afternoon and charged with complicity to commit first degree assault. He was lodged in the Lewis County Detention Center in lieu of a $100,000 cash bond.

Lewis said investigators believe the incident on Friday morning at the home of John Jamison was part of a murder-for-hire plot. Jamison was shot three times and is at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Lewis said the search continues for the man who shot Jamison. The suspect is a black male and fled the scene in a white or cream colored passenger vehicle traveling south on Montgomery Road.

Friday, January 15, 2010

A Lewis County man was injured this morning when he was shot three times by a suspect at his home on Montgomery Road.

According to Lewis County Sheriff Bill Lewis the incident happened about 9:00 a.m. when an unidentified black man knocked on the door at the home of John Jamison, 47, on Montgomery Road. Lewis said Jamison's wife answered the door and the man asked for Jamison.

Lewis said Jamison approached the door with a handgun and he and the suspect exchanged gunfire. Lewis said Jamison was in the living room of the home and the suspect was on the front porch. Jamison was hit once in the neck area and twice in the upper torso, Lewis said.

The suspect reportedly fled in a white or light colored car. Jamison's wife took him to the mouth of Montgomery where they met EMS workers with MedCorp Ambulance, according to Lewis. From there he was taken to Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, where they performed emergency surgery. He was transferred to Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio, after being stabilized, Lewis said.

Lewis said leads are continuing to be developed and arrests were pending this afternoon.

This site maintained by D.K. Brown.