RAMPS AT I-70 / CHESTER BLVD. INTERCHANGE TO CLOSE FOR MONTHS

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Revive I-70 project to widen the interstate to three lanes through most of Wayne County will soon affect the Chester Boulevard interchange for an extended period of time.  INDOT announced Monday that, beginning in two weeks, the exit ramp from eastbound 70 onto Chester Boulevard will close until mid-June.  That will effectively cut access to Reid Health, IU East, and north-side businesses in half.  Also, the entrance ramp onto eastbound 70 from Chester Boulevard will close and not reopen until mid-August.  And that’s not all.  This week, drivers on eastbound 70 will shift into the westbound lanes between the Centerville and Cambridge City exits.

IDENTITY RELEASED IN POLICE-INVOLVED SHOOTING

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fayette County, IN)--The name of the 71-year-old man who died in a police-involved shooting that began as a domestic disturbance near Everton on Sunday has been released.  Investigators say Michael Sims pointed a gun at other occupants inside a home on County Road 200 East in Fayette County and then pointed it at deputies during an hour-long standoff.  That’s when a Fayette County deputy fired at Sims.  Sims was pronounced dead at the scene.  The deputy who shot Sims remained on paid administrative leave Tuesday morning, as is standard protocol for all police shootings.  The Indiana State Police is continuing its investigation.

WOMAN ON A BICYCLE ARRESTED FOR RECKLESS DRIVING

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Did you know you can be arrested for reckless driving on a bicycle?  You can.  Just ask Crystal Bowers.  Bowers was allegedly weaving in and out of traffic on her bicycle Monday night and then fled when officers tried to stop her.  The 46-year-old was caught in the 900 block of North 19^th in Richmond.  Bowers was arrested for the same thing just a month ago, and has had seven different criminal cases in the last three years.

MAN SERIOUSLY HURT WHEN TREE FALLS ON LAWNMOWER

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fayette County, IN)--A man was seriously injured Monday in northern Fayette County in a freak accident that occurred while he was mowing his lawn.  The man was mowing in the Bentonville area when a large tree came down on him while he was on the riding mower.  He was trapped underneath.  A medical helicopter was called and carried the victim to a Level One trauma center.  His identity and condition have not been released.

RP&L RESTORES POWER QUICKLY AFTER SUBSTATION INCIDENT

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Power & Light crews were able to get power restored in about an hour after what was described by nearby residents as an explosion at the substation at Salisbury and Test Road on Sunday night.  People across the area reported seeing two large flashes of light.  There was even a report that fire had spread into a wooded area, but Battalion Chief Jerry Benjamin said that was not the case.  "It was just a very small spot on the ground by one of the utility poles.  We just had a very small fire on the ground.  It wasn't significant whatsoever," Benjamin explained.  RP&L had not said what caused the incident by 6 o'clock Monday morning.

STATE POLICE INVESTIGATE FAYETTE COUNTY SHOOTING

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fayette County, IN)--There was a shooting in Fayette County Sunday night.  The initial indication is that the Indiana State Police responded to an incident near County Road 200 and Little Bear Road, which is just southwest of Everton.  No details have been released yet about any victims, shooters, or what led to the incident.  The Fayette County Sheriff’s Department is expected to release more information later Monday.

MAYOR ISSUES RESPONSE TO COUNCIL PRESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond,IN)--Richmond Mayor Ron Oler has issued a response to a grievance filed recently by Richmond Common Council President Justin Burkhardt.  Burkhardt’s complaint indicated that he witnessed a victim of domestic violence inside the police department lobby who could not get help for an extended period of time and was eventually told to scan a QR code to file a report.  Oler said that an internal investigation was conducted following Burkhardt’s complaint and determined that an officer had responded within four minutes of a call to 911.  Oler added that no officers entering the building during shift change was approached by council members to address the situation.

THREE SERIOUS CRASHES OCCUR IN WAYNE COUNTY ON SUNDAY

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--There were at least three serious crashes in Wayne County on Sunday.  Careflight was called after a vehicle rolled into a tree on Test Road.  The initial indication was that one person had suffered a broken leg and was trapped.  Scanner traffic indicated that at least four people were hurt in a collision at the intersection of State Road 1 and Olive Branch Road.  And, multiple ambulances responded to a crash at National Road East and West Eaton Pike.  Identities and conditions of the people involved in those three crashes have not been released.

SATURDAY MARKS 40-YEAR POINT SINCE DENISE PFLUM'S DISAPPEARANCE

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Saturday marks a somber anniversary in Connersville.  It was 40 years ago Saturday when Connersville’s Denise Pflum went missing.  Denise was just 18 years old at the time and was about to graduate from high school.  In those 40 years, more than 15 properties have been searched, ponds have been drained, and even physics have been involved.  But nothing of substance has resulted.  The Pflums still believe answers may lie in the property of a prominent Connersville family, but that has refused to allow a search.  A judge also refused to issue a warrant.

BOARD OPTS AGAINST EUTHANASIA FOR VICIOUS DOG

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Board of Public Works revisited a vicious dog issue Thursday night.  Last October, a dog bit the dog’s owner’s mother in the face and caused extensive injury.  The Board declared the dog vicious two weeks ago, which gave it the option of requiring euthanasia.  It had laid out a series of requirements for the owner.  "He's not just a dog, he's my immediate family.  I need him," said the dog’s owner.  Thursday night, those requirements were deemed to have been fulfilled and the Board opted against euthanasia.  The owner will be monitored for continued compliance.

ICE HOLDS FOUR AFTER FUEL THEFT RING ARRESTS

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Four people suspected of being in the country illegally are being held on ICE detainers after operating a fuel theft ring in the Whitewater Valley.  Police reports indicate the four were able to use a remote control device to override fuel pumps and steal diesel fuel.  They then pumped the fuel into large tanks that they carried on flatbed trucks or trailers.  The estimate is that they stole around $75,000 in diesel fuel since October of last year.  The four primarily targeted the CountryMark station on Conwell Street in Connersville.

UNION CITY CONSIDERS JOINING SUIT OVER POSSIBLE WATER CONTAMINATION

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union City, IN)--Union City, Indiana is preparing to join a class-action lawsuit targeting a company that produces foam used for firefighting.  That claim, which is based in South Carolina, alleges that the foam contains chemicals that cause water contamination.  Union City’s City Council addressed the issue this week.  The city will have wells tested and will not pay any up-front legal fees if it joins the lawsuit.  City officials stressed this week that the water is safe to drink.

MAN WITH HISTORY OF FAILING TO APPEAR IN COURT CAPTURED

Posted About Three Weeks Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--A Centerville man with both a long criminal record and a history of failing to show up for court hearings was caught early Friday morning.  It was around 1 o’clock Friday morning when deputies caught Jesse Craft on King Road.  Craft had failed to appear twice in the same active meth possession case and had an active warrant.  Craft’s history includes three different domestic violence cases.  Now, he will be held without bond until trial, which will be in May at the earliest.

QUAKERTOWN CAUSEWAY CLOSES FOR SUMMER

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--There are only two causeways that cross Brookville Lake, which is 16 miles long, in Union and Franklin County.  Now, one of those has been closed for the entire 2026 boating season.  The Dunlapsville Road bridge, which is often referred to as the Quakertown Causeway, is closed through at least the end of August.  The design of that bridge has come into question in recent years and is the same as the Fairfield Causeway, which also went through extensive repairs in recent years.  Earlier this month, an announcement was made about the permanent closure of Quakertown Beach, but that is unrelated to the causeway situation.

MAN JAILED AFTER WARRANT ISSUED FOR CRIMINAL RECKLESSNESS WITH DEADLY WEAPON

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A man with a long criminal history and a new warrant was picked up late Wednesday night at 13^th and East Main in Richmond after a warrant for his arrest was issued earlier this week.  54-year-old Jason Gibbs is faces charges including criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon, intimidation, and resisting.  Other recent criminal cases include burglary, intimidation, and two for meth possession.  Those are all felonies and all have occurred in the last four years.

ANOTHER ALLEGED VICTIM OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVER COMES FORWARD

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lewisburg, OH)--Another alleged victim of a school bus driver has come forward, and that’s led to additional charges.  It brings the total number of alleged victims of 50-year-old Matthew Hunt of Lewisburg to ten.  Hunt now faces 60 counts of sexual battery all involving students of various schools, including Eaton and Tri County North.  Hunt is set to go on trial in June and is being held on a million-dollar bond.

GROUNDBREAKING SET FOR CONNERSVILLE SPORTS COMPLEX

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Groundbreaking ceremonies have been set for Saturday for a long-awaited sports complex in Connersville.  It’s called the River’s Edge Sports Park.  It’s located off State Road 1 just south of the city and will feature soccer, baseball, and softball fields.  Work actually began several years ago but was halted due to ADA compliance issues.  Then, a lack of funding caused additional delays.  A bond issue has now made the project feasible.  The fields are expected to be ready for play next year.

HOME OWNERSHIP COURSES OFFERED IN ADVANCE OF VAILE GROUNDBREAKING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Recently, city leaders have come together to work to revitalize Richmond’s Vaile neighborhood.  Now, with groundbreaking set to begin on the first of 22 new, affordable homes in the area, the EDC is announcing that they’re offering home ownership courses to help prepare future residents.  Here’s Sarah Mitchell in a video produced by the EDC:  "The goal is to have a neighborhood where people want to live, raise families, and invest.  We have identified 22 in and surrounding the Vaile neighborhood where new homes can be built and have infrastructure that supports growth."  The classes begin April 7.  More information and registration is available from the link below.

 

https://intendindiana.org/homeownership-101/

ALLEGED DEALERS ARRESTED OVERNIGHT

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Two alleged drug dealers were arrested in Richmond overnight Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.  Police encountered 36-year-old Thomas Richardson and 34-year-old Alexis Rogers in the 1900 block of National Road West.  They were questioned and then booked into jail early Wednesday morning on identical charges of dealing cocaine or other drugs and dealing marijuana.  Details of what led to the arrests and the quantity of drugs recovered have not been released.

MAN SENTENCED FOR RAPING CHILD

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--A Preble County man is now just a few days into what will be at least a 20-year prison sentencing for raping a young girl.  The victim, who is now 17 but was seven years old at the time of the rape, was interviewed at the JACY House in Richmond.  The result was the arrest of Darrel Colwell, who was the ex-boyfriend of the girl’s mother.  He was found guilty of all counts at trial earlier this year.  Colwell won’t be eligible for parole until he’s 87 years old.

SIMULATOR COMING TO HELP DRIVERS LEARN ROUNDABOUTS

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Part of the Revive I-70 project will include roundabouts at two different exits from I-70 in Richmond.  There is also a diverging diamond interchange.  On Monday, INDOT announced that it has a simulator to help drivers learn how to navigate those features, and they’ll be trotting that simulator to various public meetings.  "The goal is to take these to public meetings - give them an opportunity to drive them - get a feel for what all the movements are like," said an INDOT representative.  There’s no word yet on when or where the simulator will makes its first appearance in Richmond.  (the photo accompanying this story does not depict the exact simulator).

MAN WANTED FOR STRANGLING YOUNG TEEN CAPTURED

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--A wanted man was caught on U.S. 27 just outside of Fountain City Monday.  A warrant had been issued early last month for 33-year-old Tyler Moore.  Moore allegedly struck and choked a 13-year-old girl earlier this year.  According to what an officer wrote in the report, the girl’s mother was more concerned about keeping Moore out of jail than about the injuries to her daughter.  Moore was being held Tuesday morning on a $35,000 bond.

REID SETS OPENING DATES FOR CONNERSVILLE FACILITY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--Reid Health has set a series of opening dates for its new $100 million facility on Park Road in Connersville.  The openings will come in phases by department, with the first opening date set for April 8.  That’s when the emergency department moves from Virginia Avenue to the new campus.  The next day, April 9, radiology, infusion therapy, and respiratory testing will begin.  Finally, primary and specialty care services will begin on Monday, April 13.  Reid said that the opening dates are tentative and dependent on several factors.  (Photo supplied)

CHURCH RELEASES STATEMENT ON MAN ARRESTED IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING STING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Oak Park Church is Richmond has released a statement following the arrest of Nolan Arthur.  Arthur is one of 14 men caught in a sting involving human trafficking in Dayton.  Oak Park’s statement confirms that Arthur is a member.  But, despite numerous claims on social media, they say that Arthur is not in any leadership capacity at the church or involved with the Oak Park Early Learning Academy.  Audio and video of Arthur conducting services has been removed.  He faces charges of solicitation and grooming.

DISCUSSION OF REDUCTION IN FORCE POLICY CLARIFIED

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An agenda item included at the last meeting of the Richmond Community School Board raised some eyebrows.  It involved a policy dealing with reduction in force.  With the discussion came some clarification.  Here’s Steven Hensley with RCS:  "I know the words 'reduction in force' are very scary words for the whole district.  This is a policy.  This is not the Board approving names, structure, places, positions, people...it is just policy language."  The Board is scheduled to meet again Tuesday afternoon to review additional policies.

SEARCH WIDENS FOR MAN ACCUSED OF CAUSING GIRL'S DEATH

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--The search for a man who is accused of causing the death of a girl in Franklin County is now widening across the country.  Back in 2022, Dennis Poland was allegedly driving on U.S. 52 in Franklin County at 82 miles per hour with fentanyl in his system when he caused a crash that killed Makenzie Howell.  Poland failed to show up for a court hearing earlier this month and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

COUNCIL PRESIDENT FILES FORMAL COMPLAINT; PRESSES FOR STAFFING IN RPD LOBBY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A formal complaint has been filed after an incident recently witnessed by the president of Richmond Common Council.  The complaint, authored by Justin Burkhardt directed to Mayor Ron Oler and obtained Thursday by Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News, indicates that Burkhart walked into the city building through the police department entrance one week ago.  He saw two women in the lobby.  One had been the victim of domestic violence and wanted to file a report.  But, the information desk was not staffed and no officers passing through the lobby offered help.  After about 30 minutes, according to Burkhardt, one officer did intervene but told the victim to scan a QR code on the window and file a report that way.  The officer also stated that the lack of help was due to Council cutting the budget.  Burkhardt is requesting that the lobby be staffed around the clock.  Burkhardt indicated he has had no response from his complaint, which was filed Monday.

BLANTON WITHDRAWS FROM RACE FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A local candidate for state representative has dropped out of the race.  Adam Blanton posted on social media Thursday that he has decided not to pursue his candidacy as a Republican for State Representative District 56.  Blanton did not give a specific reason for his withdrawal, but did throw his support behind Pete Zaleski.  Zaleski had filed to run just a couple of days after Blanton filed.

BOARD OF WORKS CONTINUES HEARING ON VICIOUS DOG

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Board of Public Works conducted a lengthy hearing Thursday to determine whether or not a dog should be labeled vicious and whether or not it should be euthanized.  What’s unusual is that the dog’s owner defended the dog after it attacked that man’s own mother.  She had bent down to pet the dog.  "He was sitting in his chair.  I don't know if he was asleep or just laying there when he felt a presence hunched over him and had a very 'dog' reaction," said the dog's owner.  The result, according to Animal Control Officer Desiree Durbin, was horrific.  "This is the worst dog bite I have dealt with in my career.  It was very devasting and life-altering," Durbin said.  The dog will be quarantined until the hearing is resumed on the 26^th to determine its ultimate fate.  (Note:  the dog in the photo accompanying this story is not the specific dog in question.  It is a photo of a dog biting that is available in the public domain).

JUDGE PERMANENTLY BANNED FROM JUDICIAL SERVICE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--Franklin County Judge Steven Cox has been permanently banned from judicial service by the Indiana Supreme Court.  The action came Thursday and stemmed from a criminal case involving Gregory Guilfoyle, who shot his child’s mother and shot at a Franklin County deputy.  According to court documents, Judge Cox went to Guilfoyle’s home without the knowledge of prosecutors or defense attorneys to investigate the case himself.  Cox had served as a judge for 30 years and had also served as a special judge in some Wayne County cases.

RICHMOND MAN JAILED FOR 21st TIME AFTER METH BUST

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man was booked into the Wayne County Jail for the 21^st time since 2008 on Thursday.  47-year-old Donald Moberly was taken into custody near North 21^st and E Street Thursday morning and charged with possessing methamphetamine and resisting law enforcement.  The quantity of meth recovered has not been released.

WOMAN FACES MONDAY HEARING AFTER ALLEGEDLY CALLING 911 FOR A "FORTY"

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An initial hearing has been set for Monday for a Richmond woman accused of calling 911 to bring her a “40.”  65-year-old Kay Smith placed that call for alcohol and others to 911 last weekend.  When told stop, Smith said that the only number she can call on her phone is 911.  She’s been charged with unlawful use of 911.  Her criminal history includes public indecency and indecent exposure.

WAYNE COUNTY COUNCIL, COMMISSIONERS VOTE TO SUPPORT LAND BANK

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Members of Wayne County Council and Commissioners got an update Wednesday night on the development of a land bank for Wayne County.  The EDC secured the city’s part of funding earlier Wednesday.  Wednesday night, EDC President Valerie Shaffer clarified exactly what a land bank does.  "It will be a not-for-profit organization that will focus primarily on residential properties throughout the county.  They will find an end user or a developer to rehab those properties," Shaffer said.  That differs from the land trust, which uses private dollars to acquire commercial properties.  County leaders last night gave their unanimous approval.

SERVICE SET FOR LONG-TIME WAYNE COUNTY ELECTED OFFICIAL

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Hagerstown, IN)--Service has been set for a long-time Wayne County elected official who died on Tuesday.  Chris Beeson served on Wayne County Council for more than 25 years and was also the Wayne County Auditor for eight years.  He had been given the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award two years ago, and prided himself on having never lost an election.  Service will be at 2 o’clock Saturday at Hagerstown First United Methodist Church and will be preceded by a public visitation.  Chris Beeson was 85.

ALLEGED ARMED DRUG DEALER JAILED EARLY THURSDAY MORNING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond police arrested an alleged drug dealer and armed domestic batterer overnight Wednesday night / Thursday morning .  30-year-old Devan Turner was taken into custody in the 100 block of Richmond Avenue and was being held Thursday morning on a $30,000 bond.  Officers also recovered a handgun.  Details of what led to Turner’s arrest have not yet been released.  He was convicted of domestic battery in Fayette County four years ago.

EATON POLICE RELEASE DETAIL OF FENTANYL BUST

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Eaton, OH)--Eaton police have released some details of a recent drug bust that landed two people in jail.  Officers conducted a traffic stop in the 500 block of West Main Street.  Criminal indicators were observed, and a subsequent search turned up both methamphetamine and fentanyl.  Nicole Majors and David Morris both face numerous charges.  Morris remained jailed Thursday morning.  Majors has bonded out.

RANDOLPH COUNTY REJECTS SOLAR PROJECT

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Winchester, IN)--In Randolph County, commissioners this week voted to deny the Riverstart II location.  The proposed location for the 125 megawatt solar project was to be in the Modoc area and was intended to come on line in about a year and a half.  The decision by commissioners was unanimous and came quickly after about 30 residents of the area spoke out against the project.  The company could try again in a different location.

GREENVILLE FACES UP TO $41 MILLION IN LEAD WATER LINE REPLACEMENT COSTS

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Greenville, OH)--Greenville leaders are looking into how to pay for mandated lead water line replacement that comes with a massive price tag.  Greenville has about 2000 lead water lines that need to be replaced.  The federal government has given the city 11 years to get that done.  This week, a consultant hired to examine the issue said that the total cost will run somewhere between $23 and $41 million.  If the city covers the cost through a loan, interest alone would cost more than a million dollars per year.  If the work is done through rate increases, that increase would be close to 20 percent.

WARNING ISSUED FOR GOOD SAMARITANS AFTER ARMED ROBBERY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Union County, IN)--Union County authorities are issuing a warning after a would-be good Samaritan became the victim of an armed robbery.  It happened Tuesday when a driver on East Contreras Pike stopped to offer help to the people in a pickup that was stopped on the side of the road.  The victim was then robbed at gunpoint.  The suspects are described as two white males with long hair in a white Ford F150 pickup truck.  Investigators say people should not stop to help anyone in a vehicle fitting this description.

CAMBRIDGE CITY MAN JAILED ON MULTIPLE DRUG-DEALING CHARGES

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--Wayne County deputies made a drug-dealing arrest Tuesday night.  Those deputies encountered 53-year-old Timothy Coyle at his home on Shawnee Avenue near Creitz Park in Cambridge City at around 6:30 Tuesday night.  Coyle was charged with dealing both cocaine and methamphetamine.  Details of what led to Coyle’s arrest have not been released.  A $7500 bond was posted on his behalf and he was free Wednesday morning.

ALLEGED TEEN DRUNKEN DRIVER CRASHES AT NORTHEASTERN BEFORE START OF SCHOOL

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fountain City, IN)--A suspected teenage intoxicated driver crashed at Northeastern schools shortly before students began arriving for the day Tuesday.  Scanner traffic indicated that a vehicle went into a pole at Northeastern and that the driver had fled the scene.  That driver was later identified as 18-year-old James Byrge.  Byrge was taken to Reid Health to be checked out but was not seriously injured.  He has bonded out of jail.

GIRLS INC. TO RESUME OPERATIONS THURSDAY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Another update came from Girls Inc. Tuesday.  That organization said that after-school programming will resume Thursday at the Richmond Senior Center.  Girls Inc. and RCS will communicate directly with parents and guardians of enrolled girls regarding transportation and other details.  Restoration and remediation efforts are continuing at the permanent site.   There’s no estimation yet on how long Girls Inc. will be at the Senior Center.

COUNCIL APPROVES ORDINANCES, RESOLUTION INVOLVING PARK BOND

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Monday night, Richmond Common Council passed two ordinances and a resolution involving a bond issuance to help make immediate improvements for the Richmond Park Department.  Council member Jerry Purcell described how the city will benefit:  "What this will do is this will give us a temporary loan to do some emergency projects that need to be done now - projects such as roofs, maintenance to our golf course...".  The next step is to market a bond anticipation note, and that will happen quickly.  "...in time for a closing near April 1 or April 15.  You could order the equipment.  You could order the pumps," said the city’s bond counsel.  The immediate need for parks has been estimated at $4.8 million.

NEW FIGURES SHOW VISITORS HAD A $185 MILLION IMPACT TO LOCAL ECONOMY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--During Monday night’s Common Council discussion of park bonds and the food and beverage tax, Mary Walker, who is the Director of the Wayne County Convention and Tourism Bureau, revealed that she had just received new numbers from the state regarding the financial impact that visitors make to the local economy.  "In 2024, Richmond/Wayne County annual spending by visitors totalled $185.5 million, representing and 8.4% increase," Walker said.  They define a visitor as someone who lives at least 50 miles away.  40% of all visitor dollars spent in Wayne County are spent on food and beverage.

GIRLS INC. FINDS TEMPORARY LOCATION

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Girls Inc. announced Monday night that it has found a temporary location after last week’s windstorm did structural damage to its permanent location.  Girls Inc. has reached an agreement that will allow it to utilize the Richmond Senior Center on South 2^nd to continue afterschool programming.  Tuesday, Girls Inc. will work to finalize transportation details with Richmond Community Schools and hopes to start at the Senior Center later this week.  There’s been no mention about a timeframe to repair damage at the permanent facility.

900 WITHOUT POWER MONDAY MORNING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--As we transition from T-shirts Sunday to winter coats Monday, some people in the Whitewater Valley were dealing with power outages brought about by strong winds that blew through the area.  At 5:30 Monday morning, Whitewater Valley REMC had 186 customers out in Richmond and another 122 out in the Williamsburg area.  240 customers of Duke Energy were out in and around Everton, and 340 customers of AES were out in an area between Lakengren and Camden.  Richmond’s highest wind gust Sunday was 41 miles per hour.

LIBERATION LABS TO OPEN IN SECOND HALF OF '26

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--When the announcement was made in January of 2023 that Liberation Labs had picked the Midwest Industrial Park in Richmond for its new facility, production was expected to begin by the end of 2024.  That didn’t happen, and here’s where the project stands now.  According to a memo to Richmond Common Council members, fundraising delays have moved the projected opening back to the second half of this year.  The company said they’ll be ramping up hiring between now and the end of June to ensure the facility is fully staffed by the end of the year.  Liberation Labs was initially announced as a $115 million project that would employ 45 people.

GIRLS, INC. AIMS TO RESUME SERVICE THIS WEEK IN TEMPORARY LOCATION

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An announcement is expected by the end of the day Monday about a temporary location for the organization Girls, Inc.  The Girls, Inc. building sustained structural damage during last week’s windstorm and cannot be occupied until repairs are made.  A social media post Sunday indicated that they hope to be able to again serve the community as soon as the middle of this week.  Meanwhile, they’re still in need of cleaning and arts supplies.  You can see drop-off locations on their Facebook page.

DAMAR TO HOST HIRING FAIR AFTER BUILDING RENOVATIONS

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Damar in Richmond is getting closer to opening.  That organization, which purchased the former Wernle Youth & Family Treatment Center last year, will help people with developmental and behavioral disabilities.  Now, they’re looking to hire staff members.  A hiring fair has been set for March 31 to fill numerous positions.  Since the purchase last year, Damar has renovated many of the buildings on the 74-acre site.

TWO ALLEGED METH DEALERS ARRESTED NEAR SPRINGWOOD PARK

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County Sheriff’s deputies caught a couple of alleged meth dealers Thursday night.  It began when 48-year-old Jon McClellan was caught on Union Pike.  Then, a couple of hours later, 54-year-old Mark Poling was captured in Springwood Park.  Details of what led to the arrest of the two suspects have not been released.  McClellan is a convicted burglar.  Poling is a convicted armed robber.

CITY INSPECTOR WARNS ABOUT ELECTRICIAN DOING STORM REPAIR

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond city inspector is issuing the same warning he issued a few months ago about a local electrician.  Terry Ford is that inspector and he wants anyone who may have been victimized by Ryan Vaughn in this week’s high winds to contact police.  Ford said that one person this week paid Vaughn $125 in advance to repair storm damage but Vaughn never returned to do the work.  Vaughn had been scheduled to go on trial this week in a drug possession case.  That’s now been pushed back to May.

MESSAGE INDICATES GIRLS, INC BUILDING COULD FACE EXTENDED CLOSURE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A message from Girls, Inc. of Wayne County Thursday night indicated that the closure of their building due to storm damage earlier this week could be an extended one.  The organization wrote Thursday night that they’re still finalizing alternative location plans and that they’re in need of individually packed snacks that can be easily transported over the next several weeks or even months.  You can find more details on the Girls, Inc. Facebook page.

HIGH WINDS CAUSE STRUCTURAL DAMAGE, POWER OUTAGES

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Strong winds across the Whitewater Valley on Wednesday caused some damage and left some without power.  Girls Inc. of Wayne County is currently assessing damage to its facilty.  Images show roofing material that had been peeled off the top.  No one was injured.  Out of an abundance of caution, Girls Inc. is temporarily closed.  They’re working to identify an alternative location.  There were multiple power outages.  RP&L reported that most power had been restored by about 1 o’clock Wednesday afternoon, although it was longer in the Peacock Road area.  There were only a handful of outages remaining Thursday morning.  Most of those were in Preble County.  Richmond’s strongest wind gust Wednesday was 47 miles per hour.

ZONING APPEALS APPROVES APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond’s Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday unanimously approved the development of a small apartment complex at the southwest corner of the intersection of South 23^rd and L Streets.  The new apartments will be built by Trademark Construction and will include 12 units.  "There will be four single-bedroom and eight two-bedroom units.  There will carports in front of each building.  Parking will exceed the minimum city parking requirements," said Gordon Moore.  Moore said that the project will include a small water retention area and will be privately funded.  He also said that there would be no increase on taxes or utilities.  A timeline for start of construction and completion was not discussed.

COMMISSIONERS DROP FACEBOOK PAGE WITH LAWSUIT PENDING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Recently, Wayne County’s chief deputy coroner filed a civil complaint against Wayne County Commissioners after they allegedly blocked him from accessing and commenting on their public Facebook page.  That lawsuit is now in federal court.  Wednesday, commissioners decided to take down their Facebook page entirely based on the recommendation of county attorney Ron Cross.  "I understand the purpose for the commissioners having originally created their Facebook page, but I think that purpose can still be accomplished without having to rely on a social media platform for that," Cross said. The county’s insurance will fund the defense and pay any damages after the county pays a $15,000 deductible.

WESTERN WAYNE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT HAS DROPPED BY ONE-THIRD IN LAST TEN YEARS

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Cambridge City, IN)--Earlier this week, we took a look at enrollment numbers for Richmond Community Schools.  Now, here are the other four public schools in Wayne County.  According to the state, Northeastern, Centerville, Western Wayne, and Nettle Creek all lost enrollment from last year to this year by an average of 29 students.  The loss of students enrolled in Western Wayne schools has been the most substantial over the last ten years.  Western Wayne’s enrollment was 1045 in 2016.  This year, it’s 699.  That’s a drop of 33%.

INITIAL HEARING SET FOR MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY CAUSED SERIOUS CRASH

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--An initial hearing has now been set for March 20 for a Centerville man accused of causing a life-changing motorcycle crash late last summer.  25-year-old Peyton Sparks allegedly had Xanax and Oxycodone in his system when he crossed the center line on U.S. 40.  Two motorcyclists were injured, including one who broke his back, his foot, his hand, and lost four toes.  Sparks then allegedly fled the scene and was stopped on Eliason Road.  He now faces up to six years in prison.

UNDER TOLL PROPOSAL, DRIVING TO CENTRAL INDIANA AND BACK WOULD COST $15.60

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--If I-70 becomes as toll road, a trip from Richmond to central Indiana and back would leave drivers with two options:  either pay a $15.60 toll, or take U.S. 40 instead.  That’s the proposal released Tuesday in an application filed by the Indiana Department of Transportation with the federal government.  The application says that proceeds from the toll are needed to reconstruct and widen 70 from Richmond to Terre Haute.  Under the state’s plan, tolling would begin in early 2029 with 70 reconstruction occurring over eight to ten years.  Toll collection would not use booths but instead use electronic collection that would not require drivers to stop or slow down.

WEDNESDAY MORNING DRUG ARREST IS MAN'S 7th IN FIVE YEARS

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond police made a drug arrest Wednesday morning.  It was around 1 o’clock Wednesday morning when officers encountered 50-year-old Gary Lady in the 2600 block of Southeast Parkway.  Lady was allegedly in possession of an undisclosed quantity of cocaine and controlled substances.  This becomes Lady’s 7^th criminal case in the last five years.  All seven have involved drugs.

APPEAL DENIED FOR MAN WHO SHOT AT DEPUTY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Brookville, IN)--A Franklin County man who shot his wife and shot at a deputy has had his appeal denied by the Indiana Court of Appeals.  In December 2022 incident, deputies encountered Gregory Guilfoyle walking down a highway while holding his young daughter.  He reached for a weapon and was shot by the deputy.  Guilfoyle’s appeal was based on the allegation that his insanity defense was not properly handled.  His 80-year prison sentence will stand.

DRIVERLESS SEMIS PASS THROUGH WHITEWATER VALLEY ON I-70

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Whitewater Valley)--Three self-driving semis began delivery shipments on I-70 through the Whitewater Valley on Monday.  The deployment is part of a partnership between the Indiana and Ohio Departments of Transportation.  Sensors on the semis can detect objects or people on all sides of the truck.  There are other safety features including automatic emergency braking.  Professional drivers remain in the driver’s seat to oversee the systems, but are not actively involved in operating the trucks.

RCS ENROLLMENT NUMBERS HOLDING STEADY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--There are some encouraging enrollment numbers for Richmond Community Schools.  According to updated numbers from the state, Richmond’s enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year are essentially holding steady, with a drop of only 21 students enrolled from the previous year.  This year’s senior class at RHS is the largest it has been in four years and sits at 302 students.  There has also been a drop in the percentage of students receiving free or reduced lunch.  It’s down to 64%.  The largest shift in demographics is in the number of Hispanic students.  Today, 14% of RCS students are counted as Hispanic.  In 2020, it was 11%.  And, in 2010, it was only 4%.

VEHICLE DID NOT HIT SOCIAL SECURITY BUILDING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Here’s case-in-point as to why you shouldn’t necessarily believe everything that goes out over police and fire scanners.  Late Monday night, a call came into 911 that a vehicle had crashed into the social security building at North 5^th and A Street in Richmond.  But it wasn’t that at all.  It wasn’t even close.  "They just ran over a little sign in the parking lot and hit a curb.  It wasn't even what they said it was," said Battalion Chief Jerry Benjamin.  Firefighters were on the scene for minimal time.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB NAMES YOUTH OF THE YEAR

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County has named the Youth of the Year.  It’s the highest honor a Boy & Girls Club member can receive.  And, this year, it goes to Richmond High School Sophomore Warren Guess II.  He will receive a $1000 scholarship and will advance to the state competition.  Also during the celebration, the club honored several community members and organization who have supported the club over the last year.

COUPLE JAILED FOR DEALING FENTANYL AT CONVENIENCE STORE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Lynn, IN)--Two fentanyl dealers remain in the Randolph County Jail after their arrest at a Lynn convenience store.  According to court documents, the Muncie man and Marion-area woman had been living out of the car for months.  The smell of marijuana led police to search the vehicle.  That’s when the fentanyl along with scales was located.  The female told police that she takes about nine grams of fentanyl per day.

APARTMENTS PLANNED FOR SOUTH 23rd AND L

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--More apartments are being planned for Richmond.  According to an application filed through the Board of Zoning Appeals, 12 apartment units would be constructed at the southwest corner of South 23^rd and L Streets.  The complex would be constructed on four lots and would be directly across South L from Genesis Apartments – formerly known as Country Club.  Petitioner Gordon Moore wrote that the lots are too small for single-family homes.  There would be one entrance to the complex, and it would be off of South 23^rd.  Zoning appeals will take the issue up on Wednesday.

WOMAN WITH FOUR PENDING CRIMINAL CASES CAPTURED MONDAY MORNING

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--One of Wayne County’s more wanted people was captured Monday morning.  Jannae Cole has four pending criminal cases, and failed to show up for hearings in all four of them.  She was located Monday morning in the 400 block of South 11^th.  One of Cole’s cases is for burglarizing an apartment in 2023.  A month later, she allegedly hit an RPD officer in the eye after being found in a stolen car.  Cole was being held Monday morning without bond.

CRASH CLOSES EASTBOUND I-70

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--A crash early Monday morning in the I-70 construction zone in Wayne County closed the eastbound lanes of the interstate.  It happened about a mile west of the Centerville Road exit.  A state police spokesperson said that at least one semi was on its side.  Eastbound interstate traffic was being diverted onto both U.S. 40 and State Road 38.  Investigators have not yet released other details of the crash, including what caused it and whether or not there were any injuries.

PROBABLE CAUSE FOUND AGAINST ALLEGED DRUG DEALER

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Wayne County judge found probable cause against an alleged drug dealer over the weekend.  The case against 38-year-old Scott Hatton was reviewed and Hatton was ordered held on a $100,000 bond.  Charges include dealing both meth and cocaine.  Hatton was taken into custody on Saturday near North West 5^th and E Streets in Richmond.  Details about what led to Hatton’s arrest have not been released.  He has had multiple previous criminal cases involving drugs.

LYNN WOMAN KILLED IN CRASH

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Randolph County, IN)--A Lynn resident was killed in a crash on Arba Pike Thursday morning.  According to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department, 78-year-old Rosemarie Hartlage was headed south on Arba Pike at the intersection of U.S. 36.  Hartlage then pulled out into the path of a semi on 36.  Hartlage was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi driver, who is from Greenville, was not hurt.

DARKE COUNTY ADOPTS EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Darke County, OH)--Darke County has adopted a new emergency alert system called Hyper-Reach.  The new emergency alert system will deliver rapid notifications during hazardous and urgent situations through a combination of phone calls, text, and email messages.  It can reach thousands of targeted households in seconds.  Residents can enroll by going to the Darke County Sheriff Department’s website.

HELICOPTERS TO TRIM TREES IN FAYETTE COUNTY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Fayette County, IN)--People who live in Fayette County will see some low-hovering helicopters beginning in the next few days.  Here’s the explanation.  Duke Energy will be using the helicopters and aerial saws to trim trees and other vegetation along power line corridors.  It’s regular maintenance work that’s done to prevent power outages by keeping tree limbs out of power lines.  The work begins Monday and will continue for a week and a half.

HEAVY RAIN PUTS FRANKLIN COUNTY ON HIGHEST LEVEL OF TRAVEL ADVISORY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Franklin County, IN)--For the second consecutive morning, heavy rain was impacting the Whitewater Valley on Thursday.  Radar indicates more than five inches of rain had fallen in 48 hours across Union, Fayette, Franklin, and Preble County.  Franklin County was under the highest level of travel advisory Thursday morning, meaning roads were closed to everyone except emergency personnel.  Wayne County had no road closures Thursday morning, although there was significant ponding on many county roads.  There were county road closures in Fayette and Franklin County.  Dry fords were closed in Union County.  On Wednesday, Brookville Lake rose more than two feet and was expected to rise at least that much again Thursday.

PERMIT GRANTED FOR CARBON DIOXIDE INJECTION

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Randolph County, IN)--A company called One Carbon Partnership has received federal approval to inject more than 13 million metric tons of carbon dioxide deep into the ground in Randolph County.  The carbon dioxide will be injected and stored underground at the Cardinal Ethanol site just west of Union City.  The process is called carbon sequestration.  The storage area is more than half a mile underground and is protected by a 500-foot-thick layer of rock.  One Carbon Partnership is required to monitor the site to ensure the carbon dioxide does not threaten drinking water.

CONNERSVILLE MAN JAILED FOR CHILD MOLESTATION

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Connersville, IN)--A Connersville man has been arrested for Child Molestation.  49-year-old David Jauregui (HOW-reh-ghee) was taken into custody after a search warrant was served Wednesday at a home in the 500 block of Western Avenue.  Details of what led to Jauregui’s arrest have not been released.  He’s being held in the Fayette County Jail on a $120,000 bond.

SECURITY LIKELY TO BE PRIVATIZED AT RANDOLPH COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Winchester, IN)--Randolph County leaders appear likely to hire a private company to provide courthouse security.  At a meeting earlier this week, two of three commissioners expressed support for hiring a central Indiana firm called Protection Plus to provide one armed security guard with arresting power and a second unarmed civilian guard.  Utilizing those to guards would cost the county $100 per hour.  The switch to a private firm could start as soon as June.  Commissioners will take the issue up again in a month.

PHARMACY TO RETURN TO LIBERTY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Liberty, IN)--There’s not been a pharmacy in Liberty for more than a year, but that will soon change.  A pharmacy will be opening inside Woodruff’s Super Market in a couple of months.  Here’s the store’s owner, Tim Woodruff:  "To have it here in town for the older people and, really, for everyone...we're really looking forward to it.  We need it.  We still have people asking about trying to get a pharmacy and now it's going to come to fruition."  The new pharmacy will be located in the same section of the store as where one was previously located.  The goal is to have it open in May.

302 EMPLOYEES TO BE LAID OFF AT GREENVILLE COMPANY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Greenville, OH )--More than 300 people are about to lose their jobs in Darke County.  A required filing with the federal government indicates that Greenville’s FRAM plant will be shutting down by the end of next month with 302 employees facing layoffs.  The top executives of FRAM’s parent company, First Brands Group, now face charges of fraud totaling millions of dollars.  Greenville’s mayor and Darke County Economic Development are now working to locate a potential buyer for the plant on Jackson Street.  A decade ago, the plant underwent a $5.4 million expansion.

WAYNE COUNTY FILED COMPLAINT AGAINST RANDOLPH COUNTY FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Wayne County, IN)--Monday morning, Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News reported on the arrest of Zalo Wilson of Wilson-Shook Funeral Home in Randolph County based on allegations that he stole more than half a million dollars from grieving families.  Later Monday, Wayne County Chief Deputy Coroner Dillon Pitcher issued a statement about a recent incident involving Wilson.  Pitcher said that Wilson had informed a family of the victim of a shooting that the death was a homicide, despite never had been trained to make such a determination.  Pitcher said it was actually a suicide and that Wilson’s statement caused the family additional grief.  The coroner’s office filed an official complaint with the Indiana Attorney General.

DARKE COUNTY TEACHER ADMITS TO SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH 15-YEAR-OLD

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Greenville, OH)--A former staff member at a Darke County high school has admitted to having a sexual relationship with a student.  Justin Travis pled guilty on Monday to two counts of unlawful sexual contact with a minor and three other charges, including grooming.  Travis had a relationship with a 15-year-old student last September and resigned shortly after the allegations came to light.  A sentencing date for Travis has not been set.

COUNCIL DELAYS DECISION ON PARK BOND ISSUANCE

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met Monday night and had a lengthy discussion about a resolution and an ordinance involving a proposed bond issuance for the Parks Department.  Public comment was taken both for and against a bond issuance.  After hearing that, Council decided to hold off on making a decision.  Council President Justin Burkhardt talked about why.  "To have some more discussion, ask some questions, and make sure that everyone has a presence to get those questions answered," Burkhardt said.  Council will take a vote either at its next meeting or the one that follows.

FUNERAL DIRECTOR ACCUSED OF STEALING $500,000 FROM GRIEVING FAMILIES

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Randolph County, IN)--A former Randolph County funeral home director is now facing over 60 theft charges after he allegedly stole money from families who paid to plan funerals for their deceased relatives.  Zalo Wilson was taken into custody in Maine last Friday and now faces a 64-count indictment after investigators heard from alleged victims about how they prepaid for funerals at Wilson-Shook Funeral Homes and how that money went missing.  Investigators now say Wilson stole more than half a million dollars during the scheme.  Wilson is alleged to have provided families with fake documentation and kept the money for himself.  The investigation is continuing.  Wilson is awaiting extradition back to Randolph County.

SPEED LIMITS TO BE REDUCED IN, AROUND HAGERSTOWN

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Hagerstown, IN)--Lower speed limits are coming to State Road 38 in the Hagerstown area.  Because 38 is a state highway, it’s controlled by INDOT.  They announced yesterday that the speed limit will drop from 50 to 45 west of town and from 45 to 35 just east of town.  On Main Street between Tidewater Road and Sycamore Street, the speed limit is dropping from 35 to 25 miles per hour.  New signs are going up before the speed limits are enforced.

AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT STILL FACES $840,000 SHORTFALL

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Wayne County’s Economic Development Corporation Board met Monday got an update on a new terminal building at the Richmond Municipal Airport.  Designing is already underway for the new terminal, which is projected to cost just under $3 million.  Currently, there is still an $840,000 shortfall.  An announcement about $1.4 million in funding from the FAA is expected next month.  If that does not come to fruition, the plan now is to make up the deficit largely through naming rights and EDIT funding.  Bidding construction is set to being next month.

ALLEGED STALKER JAILED

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who has had a warrant for more than a year for stalking and breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s home has been jailed.  27-year-old Edwin Coble faces three felonies.  Two years ago, he allegedly called his estranged girlfriend 32 times in a 13-minute span at three o’clock in the morning.  Later that day, he allegedly broke in and ransacked her home, and threatened to kill her and her daughter.  Coble was being held this morning on a $30,000 bond.

EXTENDED BRIDGE CLOSURES BEGIN MONDAY

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Monday is the day that begins three bridge closures in Richmond that will last until the end of August.  The 20^th Century Bridge, which is also referred to as the Richmond Avenue Bridge near Purina, is closing for extensive repairs.  It includes what passes over Sheridan Street, which is actually a separate bridge.  Also Monday, Bridge Avenue closes from Sim Hodgin Parkway to North West J Street.  Richmond Community Schools is adjusting their bus routes as a result of the closures.

RELEASE OF TEACHER CONFESSION VIDEO WAS UNAUTHORIZED BY PROSECUTOR

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Winchester, IN)--Randolph County Prosecutor David Daly said that his office had nothing to do with the release of a video of police interrogating Alicia Hughes.  Hughes, who is a former school employee, is facing charges after admitting to having sexual relations with two male teens.  Daly’s statement said that the video was released and made its rounds on social media before his office had even obtained a copy.  Daly also expressed concern that the release of the video could prejudice potential jurors should the case go to trial.

MAN POSSESSING METH HELD ON ICE DETAINER

Posted About One Month Ago by Jeff Lane

(Richmond, IN)--Late Sunday night, Indiana State Police troopers were on South West 3^rd in Richmond to arrest a man in the country illegally who was also in possession of methamphetamine.  There’s no word yet on how much meth the 26-year-old possessed, or what led troopers to South West 3^rd.  He was also charged for driving without ever having had a license.  He was being held Monday morning on an ICE detainer.