FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) – On Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that 2023 marked a new record year for Kentucky tourism, with $13.8 billion generated in economic impact and 95,222 jobs, as tourism remains a key piece of the commonwealth’s booming economy.

It’s a second straight record-breaking year for tourism in Kentucky.

Statistics indicate that 79.3 million travelers visited Kentucky in 2023, a 4.5% increase from 2022. Those travelers spent a total of $9.7 billion across the state.

In Floyd County, tourism accounted for over 300 jobs and generated an estimated $54 million in total spending.

WASHINGTON D.C., (WMDJ) – Republicans in Kentucky’s congressional delegation have denounced the guilty verdicts against former President Donald Trump.

The Republican Party of Kentucky posted a statement Thursday night blaming the Biden administration for Trump’s prosecution and conviction and saying that the “overwhelming majority of Kentuckians firmly stand with President Trump.”

U.S. Representative Hal Rogers released a statement calling Trump’s trial, “an outrage & deeply unfair.” He went on to say the trial was, “A political travesty & will be reversed on appeal.”

Rogers also continued the theme of Republicans, calling the trial, “A weaponization of the courts for political gain.”

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – All lanes of KY Route 80 were closed early Thursday morning due to an accident involving a tractor trailer and a pickup truck in Floyd County.

The accident occurred in front of Kinzer Drilling Co. near the Cardinal Country Store at Watergap just before 5 a.m.

An eyewitness says a pickup truck attempted a U-turn, crossing into the path of a tractor trailer in the westbound lanes, causing the semi-truck to overturn, blocking the highway.

No word on any injuries. The accident closed all lanes of KY 80 until 7:25 a.m.

HAGER HILL, Ky. (WMDJ) – A Johnson County man is facing charges after his girlfriend reportedly discovered sexual photos and videos on his phone of her underaged daughter and other young girls in their neighborhood.

Jason Ryan Campbell, 45, of Hager Hill, was arrested on charges of promoting a minor in a sexual performance, video voyeurism and videoing a minor without consent.

Campbell, who’s listed on the Kentucky State Police sex offender registry, was previously convicted of first-degree sexual abuse of a 12-year old in Floyd County in 2010 and was given a five-year suspended sentence.

He’s currently being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a $10,000 bond.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – An eastern Kentucky singing prodigy is ready to make her mark on the music industry.

Johnson County’s Adalyn Ramey has agreed to sign her very first record deal Dreamland Entertainment in Nashville.

Adalyn will be hosting a signing ceremony this Friday at the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum in Paintsville.

After starting her career as a member of the KY Opry Junior Pros, Adalyn has been traveling the region singing her original bluegrass songs over the past couple of years.

KNOTT COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – Crews with AEP are still working to restore power to customers affected by Sunday’s severe storms.

As of this afternoon, a total of just over 4,500 customers are still without power in the AEP service area, including 1,984 outages in Leslie County, 896 outages in Perry County and 769 outages in Knott County.

Officials have restored 60 percent of outages from the initial 200,000 residents that lost power during the weekend storms. Officials say that 75 percent of customers should have their power restored by Wednesday night.

MOUSIE, Ky. (WMDJ) – A Knott County man died during a hit and run accident early Saturday morning.
 

Kentucky State Police received a call just after 1 a.m. Saturday in reference to a hit and run accident on KY-550, in Mousie.

A preliminary investigation indicates that Bemas R. Noble, 48, of Garner, was operating a lawn mower, traveling east on KY-550. An unknown vehicle struck his lawn mower causing fatal injuries.
 

Noble was pronounced deceased by the Knott County Coroner’s Office. 

Detectives responded to scene and launched an investigation. If you have any information in reference to this investigation, contact KSP, Post 13, at 606-435-6069.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 23, 2024) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear approved the continued work of Kentucky’s Counterdrug Program, which has helped save Kentuckians’ lives by supporting the seizure of 265,170 fentanyl pills and 208.3 pounds of fentanyl during the 2023 federal fiscal year, which runs Oct. 1 to Sept. 30.

The Governor said the team increased the number of fentanyl pills seized by more than 5,000% and seized more than 100 pounds more of fentanyl compared with the 2022 fiscal year. So far in the 2024 fiscal year, the team has supported the seizure of more than 86,150 fentanyl pills and approximately 93 pounds of fentanyl. They have also aided in 64 arrests.

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is being mixed with other illicit drugs to increase the potency of the drug, which is sold as powders and nasal sprays and is increasingly pressed into pills that are made to look like legitimate prescription opioids. Officials estimate 1 kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people.

“I am so proud of the work of our counterdrug team, which includes multiple state, local and federal agencies, including Kentucky State Police, Kentucky National Guard, Appalachian High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Homeland Security Investigations and Drug Enforcement Administration,” Gov. Beshear said. “They are stopping the flow of illicit drugs into our communities and their work is saving lives.”

The group also supported the seizure of 822 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 310 pounds of cocaine, enabled 164 arrests and facilitated surrender of more than $2.3 million in cash tied to illegal drug activity in 2023.

The Governor was joined by the Kentucky National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. David Mounkes, to officially sign the fiscal year 2025 State Drug Interdiction and Counterdrug Activities Plan. The Counterdrug Program is federally funded through the Secretary of Defense to states whose Governor submits a Drug Interdiction and Counterdrug Activities Plan.

“I am immensely proud of our counterdrug team’s collaboration with state, local and federal law enforcement agencies,” said Brig. Gen. Mounkes. “In a supportive role, their efforts have been crucial in aiding the disruption in flow of illicit drugs and significantly increasing the commonwealth’s ability to remove fentanyl and other dangerous substances from our streets. This teamwork not only combats drug trafficking, but also saves lives in the communities in which we live.”

As part of the Kentucky Counterdrug Program, the National Guard provides personnel, assets and capabilities as part of their unique military support.

KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. added that according to the CDC, synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, are the primary driver of overdose deaths in the United States. 

“Not only is fentanyl a danger to Kentuckians, but it is a threat to our law enforcement officers, their K9 counterparts as well as other first responders. KSP relies heavily on drug task forces, local law enforcement and federal agencies for intel sharing and pooling resources to stop these criminal organizations from causing destruction in our communities,” Commissioner Burnett said. “Here in Kentucky, we have a strong message for drug traffickers – this is not a place for you to do business.” 

The Governor added that this month, the Kentucky Counterdrug Program supported the disposal of 15,161 pounds of unneeded medication as part of the statewide Drug Takeback Day.

The Governor said today’s action further supports the progress Kentucky is making when it comes to fighting addiction and saving lives.

Last year, the Governor announced that drug overdose deaths declined in 2022 by 5% compared with 2021, marking the first decline since 2018. Kentucky was one of only eight states to see a significant decline in overdose deaths. The 2023 numbers are being finalized and are expected to be announced in early June.

In 2023, the state also supported the distribution of more than 96,780 overdose reversal medication kits, provided substance-use treatment services to nearly 18,100 individuals and helped more than 14,630 individuals access recovery services. The state’s Treatment Access Program also allows those without health insurance to enter residential treatment, and the Recovery Ready certification helps communities support residents who are seeking help for drug or alcohol addiction.

The state is also leading the nation in the number of residential drug and alcohol treatment beds per capita. In March, Gov. Beshear announced the state’s FindHelpNowKy.org website as being the one-stop place where Kentuckians can find naloxone, addiction treatment, recovery housing and mental health resources.

The administration has also recorded the three lowest recidivism rates in over a decade. This year, Gov. Beshear announced a new website to support Kentuckians seeking second chances find a job, get an education or continue recovery. The site also connects business leaders with resources to help them hire second-chance talent.

The Governor has continued to fight the state’s drug epidemic from his time as attorney general, when he led the nation in the number of individual opioid lawsuits filed by an attorney general. Now, Gov. Beshear is working to make sure the hundreds of millions of dollars in settlement funds go to treatment and the communities impacted.

Additional treatment resources are available by calling the KY Help Call Center at 833-8KY-HELP (833-859-4357) to speak one-on-one with a specialist.

Visit the KSP website to find one of KSP’s 16 posts where those suffering from addiction can be paired with a local officer who will assist with locating an appropriate treatment program. The Angel Initiative is completely voluntary, and individuals will not be arrested or charged with any violations if they agree to participate in treatment.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are searching for a man wanted for murder in Pikeville.

Charles Blevins is wanted for murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is listed as 6’3” with brown eyes and has served time in prison.

If you have any information on Blevins, please contact KSP at (606) 433-7711.

**** UPDATE: Raine Rowe has been located and is safe ****

GREASY CREEK, KY. (WMDJ) – The Kentucky State Police Pikeville Post is asking for the public’s assistance as part of an ongoing missing person investigation in Pike County.

Troopers are searching for Raine Rowe, 17-years old of Greasy Creek. 

Rowe last contacted her father on May 19, 2024. She is described as a white female, 5’5” tall, 130 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information about her location is asked to contact KSP Pikeville Post at 606-433-7711.

The investigation is ongoing by Post 9 Trooper Terry Mounts.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) - Less than 11% percent of registered voters cast ballots in Tuesday's primary election in Floyd County.

Races for U.S. Representative, 95th District State Representative, 29th District State Senate drew little interest with only republican voters deciding on a nominee.

Brandon Spencer defeated David Pennington to secure the republican nomination for state representative in the 95th district. Spencer received a total of 967 votes to Pennington's 478.

Incumbent Johnnie L. Turner held on to his seat as state senator in the 29th district by a 2-to-1 margin with 4,305 votes over challenger Randy Thompson's 2,181 votes. 

U.S. Representative Hal Rogers easily won re-election with 82% percent of the vote.

Knott County residents approved the sale of alcohol yesterday 1,447 to 995 votes. 

FLOYD COUNTY PRIMARY ELECTION                TOTAL

Election Day Precincts Reporting                        42 of 42

Precincts Complete                                                 0 of 42

Precincts Partially Reported                                42 of 42

Absentee/ Early Precincts Reporting                 42 of 42

Registered Voters - Total                                        27,821

Registered Voters - Republican Party                    7,334

Registered Voters - Democratic Party                 18,896

Registered Voters - NONPARTISAN                        1,591

Ballots Cast - Total                                                    2,988

Ballots Cast - Republican Party                               1,176

Ballots Cast - Democratic Party                              1,812

Ballots Cast - NONPARTISAN                                          0

Ballots Cast - Blank                                                         21

Voter Turnout - Total                                               10.74%

Voter Turnout - Republican Party                          16.03%

Voter Turnout - Democratic Party                           9.59%

Voter Turnout - NONPARTISAN                               0.00%

REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES            TOTAL

Ryan L. BINKLEY                                                                           3

Vivek RAMASWAMY                                                                     2

Ron DeSANTIS                                                                              22

Donald J. TRUMP                                                                          1,105

Chris CHRISTIE                                                                              3

Nikki R. HALEY                                                                              18

"UNCOMMITTED"                                                                         15

REPUBLICAN U.S. REP DIST 5                                                 TOTAL

Dana EDWARDS                                                                            94

Hal ROGERS                                                                                   944

Brandon MONHOLLEN                                                                61

David E. KRAFTCHAK JR.                                                               27

REPUBLICAN STATE SENATE DISTRICT 29                           TOTAL

Shawn Andrew GILLEY                                                                60

Johnnie L. TURNER                                                                       643

Randy THOMPSON                                                                      407

REPUBLICAN STATE REP DIST 95                                           TOTAL

Brandon SPENCER                                                                       720

David PENNINGTON                                                                    366

DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES           TOTAL

Joseph R. BIDEN JR.                                                                      692

Marianne WILLIAMSON                                                              139

Dean PHILLIPS                                                                              252

"UNCOMMITTED"                                                                         708

HI HAT, Ky. (WMDJ) – The Floyd County Board of Education voted to give all Floyd County School staff a 3% percent raise in pay during Monday night’s monthly meeting.

Much of last night's 2-plus hour meeting was spent squabbling with budget issues, while various community members and school employees addressed the board during the open comment session in support for an increase in pay of 5% percent.

Although the finance department stated that the framework for the new budget only allowed a 3% percent increase in pay for staffing, board member Keith Smallwood made the motion for a 5% percent increase. The motion failed 3-2 based on the numbers given that reflected such a raise would be fiscally irresponsible.

Smallwood made a second motion for a 3% percent wage increase starting in September on the caveat there would be a hiring freeze at Central Office. That measure also failed on a 3-2 vote.

Board members unanimously agreed upon the 3% percent wage increase without stipulations and agreed to explore the opportunity of an additional raise in the fall.

Board finance reported that the cost of a 3% percent increase in pay for all staff would be an estimated $875,000 coming from the general fund. Officials also stated that although surrounding counties have given larger percentage raises, those counties assess a utility tax on citizens which provides more revenue for schools.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Recently, new data on education has shown that Kentucky ranks as one of the worst states in the country for teacher pay.

This year’s General Assembly placed the responsibility of raising school employee salaries in the hands of individual districts, rather than approving a sweeping statewide raise.

Last week, Knott County Schools announced a 5% salary increase across the board, which has prompted an outcry on social media in Floyd County for a similar move.

The Floyd County Board of Education will discuss a possible 3% raise in salaries. The meeting will take place tonight starting at 6:30 p.m. at South Floyd Elementary School.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – Early voting totals for tomorrow’s Kentucky primary election have been low across the state and locally.

With the presidential nominations all but officially declared, there isn’t much for voters in Floyd County to decide.

The race receiving the most attention is for KY State Senate District 29 between Republican incumbent Johnnie L. Turner of Harlan and Republican challenger Randy Thompson of Hindman and Shawn Andrew Gilley of Letcher County.

LETCHER COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – A father and son died after their home in Letcher County caught fire Sunday morning.

The fire occurred around 9:30 a.m. on Henry Hutton Road in Fleming-Neon.

Neighbors say they heard an explosion and saw smoke coming from the home.

Investigators say the father either exited the home and died or was blown out by the force of the explosion. A neighbor attempted to rescue the son inside the home, but was forced away by the heat.

The identities of the victims haven’t been released and the cause of the fire is still being investigated.

ELKHORN CITY, Ky. (WMDJ) – A 17-year old Pike County teenager lost her life in a single vehicle accident on Thursday.

The accident happened around 8:30 a.m. on KY Route 80 in Elkhorn City.

Kentucky State Police say Zena Newsome of Elkhorn City, was driving a 2010 Jeep Wrangler when her vehicle struck an embankment and overturned.

Newsome was pronounced dead at the on scene by the Pike County Coroner’s Office.

Newsome was a student at East Ridge High School and was set to begin her senior year in the fall. Grief counselors were available today and a prayer circle was held at the school this morning.

Kentucky State Police are investigating. 

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) celebrated its 2024 Commencement services on May 11th at the Mountain Arts Center. The ceremony featured special guest speaker Dr. Ryan Quarles, President of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS).

Dr. Quarles engaged the audience, including graduates, their families, and friends, with an inspiring speech highlighting the significant impact of the local community and technical colleges. During his address, he asked those in the audience who had attended BSCTC to raise their hands, showcasing the college's far-reaching influence in the community.

Reflecting on his personal journey and the importance of education, Dr. Quarles shared a powerful message about how his mom often reminded him that education was the great equalizer. His words resonated with many, emphasizing the enduring value of education in creating opportunities and fostering success.

The ceremony celebrated the students' achievements and hard work, recognizing their dedication and perseverance as BSCTC awarded 305 associate degrees, 62 diplomas, and 682 certificates, including 16 Early College Academy students. 

For more information about Big Sandy Community and Technical College and its programs, please visit https://bigsandy.kctcs.edu. 

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – An employee of Floyd County Schools has been indicted for inappropriate contact with a former student.

The Floyd County Grand Jury has indicted Darion B. Huff of Garrett for using an electronic communications system to procure a minor to commit a sexual offense. The indictment alleges Huff knowingly used her cell phone for the purpose of procuring the use of a minor in sexual activity, which is a Class D Felony.

The alleged activity occurred between November 21st, 2021, thru August 11th, 2022.

According to records, Huff was working as an administrative secretary in the transportation department for Floyd County Schools.

This is the second time over the last three months that a Floyd County Schools employee has faced a sexual indictment charge.

Floyd County Schools released a statement saying, “The Floyd County School District is aware of a criminal indictment against a district employee. Upon first notice of this matter the district took immediate steps to ensure that students were safe and the employee was placed into a position where she would not be working with, or around, district students. The District takes allegations of wrongdoing very seriously and has cooperated with law enforcement throughout the investigation of these claims while balancing the safety and wellbeing of our students with the legal rights of the employee. We will continue to prioritize the safety of our students and staff throughout these proceedings. Due to the ongoing nature of these proceedings, the District cannot comment on specific allegations or personnel matters.”

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) – Kentuckians are reminded to buckle up and properly secure children in car seats or boosters during the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, running May 20 to June 2. 

According to the KOHS, there were 813 roadway deaths last year in Kentucky. Of those killed in motor vehicle crashes, 51% were either not wearing a seat belt or were not properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat.

According to NHTSA, despite the low traffic volume, fatal crashes are three times higher nationwide at nighttime versus daytime.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – Expect continued traffic delays on U.S. 23 in Pike County for the next few weeks.

KYTC District 12 is conducting lane reductions and traffic delays near the Cedar Creek/Hambley Boulevard exit of U.S. 23 in Pikeville.

The City of Pikeville will begin a permitted utility rehab project at mile-point 24.3 to rehabilitate and repair the utilities that run under the bridge and along the project area.

Traffic will be reduced in both directions and road shoulders will be closed.

KYTC officials said the work is expected to last approximately three to four weeks and drivers should prepare for delays and congestion, especially during rush hour.

SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WMDJ) – Officials in Sevier County, TN say two children who have been missing since April may be in the Pikeville area.

Authorities are searching for 10-year old Alaina Willis and 15-year old Jesse Willis.

Alaina is a white female, 4’10” tall, 120 lbs. with brown hair and brown eyes. Jesse is a white male, 5’11 tall, 130 lbs. with red hair and blue eyes. They were last seen on April 22nd in Sevier County.

If you have any information regarding their whereabouts you’re urged to contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND or the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office at (865) 453-4668.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) – Voter registration continued to grow ahead of the May primary, with 8,306 new voters registering April 1 through the April 22 pre-primary registration deadline.

In April, 4,593 voters were removed – 3,349 dead voters, 562 voters who moved out of state, 543 felony convicts, 59 duplicate registrations, 48 voters who voluntarily de-registered, and 32 voters adjudged mentally incompetent.

Republican registrants constitute 46 percent of the electorate, with 1,615,451 voters. Republican registration rose by 2,684 voters. Democratic registrants make up 43 percent of the electorate, with 1,511,242 voters. There are 364,312 voters registered Independent or third-party, 10 percent of the electorate. “Other” registration went up by 1,745 voters, a .48 percent increase.

Kentuckians are eligible to vote early with no-excuse on May 16-18. In addition, polls will be open from 6 am to 6 pm on May 21. Polling locations can be found at govote.ky.gov.

ALABAMA – Comedian James Gregory, who brought laughter and joy to countless lives, passed away on Thursday, May 9th, 2024. He was 78.

Known as the “Funniest Man in America”, Gregory made many trips to eastern Kentucky over the years, bringing his homespun humor to the mountains.

According to his official social media pages, James’ three nieces who referred to him as “Uncle Bubba,” Martha Anne, Mary Jane, and Candie, along with their families, were instrumental in caring for him through his last days and weeks. The family asks for privacy at this time.

OBITUARY:

James Harold Gregory, Jr., acclaimed comedian known since the 1980s among fans as “The Funniest Man in America,” passed away today (May 9, 2024) from cardiac complications. He was 78.

James was born in his parents’ kitchen in tiny Lithonia, Georgia on the afternoon of May 6, 1946. He was proud to be the first member of his family to graduate high school, though he had been employed since age 11 in a tiny grocery. At age 18 he took a civil service exam for employment with the United States Postal Service. He soon joined the Marines, only to be sidelined within weeks due to health issues. James then entered sales, soon proudly working entirely on commissions. “It was a turning point in my life,” he said. “I would never again be anybody’s full-time employee.”

In 1981, at the age of 36, James answered an ad to participate in a comedy night in the basement of the Atlanta-area restaurant, Excelsior Mill. As a successful salesman with a knack for entertaining audiences, he believed he might have the makings of a comedian. Within a year, he was the first performer to take the stage at the new Punchline comedy club in Atlanta. As the comedy boom of the 1980s expanded, James quickly worked his way to headliner status.

Though often considered a “southern” comedian, in large part due to his deep Georgia accent, he never used the word “South” or “Southerner” in his performances, and in fact, worked frequently across North America doing what he called “down home, common sense” humor. He was also committed to treating comedy as a professional business endeavor, a rare approach in the early days of nightclub comedy. As he wrote in his forthcoming autobiography, “The way I see it, you’re not just my audience. You’re my customers.” His trailblazing efforts in marketing, business, and merchandising provided the model literally thousands of comedians would copy in the following decades.

James was especially popular in the southeastern United States, working comedy clubs and, later, theaters, especially in smaller towns near major cities. He chose those venues from experience growing up: he believed that the people who wanted to see him perform often didn’t care to drive into the city but would come out for a local show, a strategy he first observed in professional wrestling and adopted for his own.

James was also a radio icon with thousands of appearances on local broadcasts and hundreds more on popular syndicated programs, including John Boy & Billy, Rick & Bubba, and Bob & Tom. He turned down an appearance on The Tonight Show when he refused to “speed up” his delivery, and instead found a home as one of the most frequent guests ever on the Nashville Network, where he was a favorite of radio and TV personality Ralph Emery on his nightly talk show Nashville Now. Though he did not talk much about it in public, James was a friend and comedy favorite of some of the biggest names in the country music industry including George Jones, “Whispering Bill” Anderson, and Ray Stevens.

James Gregory was a patriot who proudly performed for our troops on several overseas tours. During Operation Enduring Freedom, he entertained soldiers on ships and aircraft carriers in Bahrain, and throughout Spain, Italy and Germany. James often said the most memorable times in his career were those spent performing for our troops and visiting wounded soldiers at Walter Reed Army Hospital. He was both honored and humbled by the experiences.

James’ followers were addicted to seeing him live as many “customers” attended his shows dozens of times over his forty-one plus years in comedy.

Just before his passing, he completed work on his first and only autobiography, A Bushel of Beans and a Peck of Tomatoes: The Life and Times of “The Funniest Man in America,” James Gregory (Post Hill Press), which will be published in November 2024.

James’ three nieces who referred to him as “Uncle Bubba,” Martha Anne, Mary Jane, and Candie, along with their families, were instrumental in caring for him through his last days and weeks. The family asks for privacy at this time.

Funeral services are to be determined. Follow this social media page for official updates from James' family and management.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) – Gov. Andy Beshear is asking Kentuckians to prepare for severe storms across much of the state starting later today and lasting into Thursday.

According to the National Weather Service, severe weather is forecast for this afternoon and evening.

East Kentucky is currently under a Flood Watch until 8 a.m. Thursday.

The Governor urges all Kentuckians to stay weather aware and pay close attention to weather alerts Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. Kentuckians can receive weather warnings by having an NOAA weather radio; listening to local TV and radio updates; connecting to wireless emergency alerts and weather apps; listening for outdoor sirens; visiting weather.gov or mobile.weather.gov or receiving notifications from family, friends and co-workers.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) – Prestonsburg City Police have arrested a clerk at the Driver Licensing Regional Office after investigators say the woman stole debit card numbers to make personal purchases.

Brittany Dingus, 30, of East Point, was arrested last Friday and charged with two counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, one count of attempted fraudulent use of a credit card and one count of unlawful access to a computer.

Dingus allegedly made charges between $500 and $1,000 from debit card numbers of patrons who frequented the driver’s licensing office.

Her arraignment is set for May 15th.

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – Two Johnson County men were arrested after Kentucky State Police discovered illegal drugs during a safety checkpoint on April 25th in Salyersville.

Troopers seized approximately half-a-pound of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. 

Nicholas Barnett, 36, of West Van Lear, and Tony Endicott, 58, of West Van Lear, were both arrested and lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on charges of Trafficking Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and other traffic related violations.

Drug tips can be reported to investigators at Post 09 by calling (606) 433-7711.  Callers can remain anonymous.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) – A group of nearly 100 supporters gathered for a candlelight vigil and rally held by the Justice for Amber group on Saturday evening.

The rally was held in Prestonsburg across from the Brickhouse restaurant, which is part-owned by Dr. Michael McKinney. The body of Amber Spradlin was found at McKinney’s home nearly one year ago on June 18th.

Kentucky State Police continue to investigate the death of Spradlin, whose body was discovered stabbed 11-times. No arrest has been made.

MARTIN CO., Ky. (WMDJ) – A Martin County man is facing rape charges after a woman told police he forced her to perform sex acts on him.

Steven Casdorph, 45 of Inez was arrested and charged with first-degree rape after the woman accused Casdorph of picking her up in a parking lot, rapping her, then leaving her on KY Route 645 alone.

Authorities were able to find video surveillance footage from the parking lot where Casdorph picked up the victim on Tuesday.

According to the arrest citation, the woman indicated to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office that the man had asked her if she had heard about two women from a local drug treatment center that had been raped and killed.

Casdorph is currently being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) - On Wednesday, Paintsville ARH Hospital hosted a ribbon-cutting and open house for the grand opening of ARH Specialty Associates and Paintsville ARH Retail Pharmacy on the hospital campus. The event featured guest speakers from ARH and the Paintsville community, free health screenings, giveaways, and lunch.

Kathy Stumbo, Paintsville ARH Hospital CEO, expressed appreciation for the partnership with the Johnson County Chamber of Commerce and thanked County Judge Executive Mark McKenzie, Mayor Bill Mike Runyon, and Adam Rice, Field Representative for Congressman Hal Rogers and local community members, for their continued support.

“Today symbolizes ARH’s commitment to the community. Paintsville, Johnson County, and the surrounding counties have been a huge part of ARH’s growth in recent years.” Stumbo continued, “That’s what ARH does: commits to and then invests in that community. Some investments are outwardly more visible, like the helipad, the new facility we are touring today, and our new 3D mammography. In the last two years I have been here, ARH has invested well over $10 million, with more great things to come.”

County Judge Executive McKenzie thanked ARH for being a great community partner. He spoke of the county’s growth and credited expansions like the new clinic with enabling residents more access to healthcare in rural eastern Kentucky.

Dr. Jason Rice, ARH Ambulatory Chief Medical Officer, thanked Dr. Anthony Stumbo, Regional Chief Medical Officer, and Roy Milwee, Chief Ambulatory Officer, for attending the event and for their ongoing support. Rice introduced the providers at the clinic, Dr. Jason Fogg, an interventional pain specialist, and Nicole Burchett, a Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Fogg hails from West Virginia and specializes in injection and therapy-based pain management, offering alternatives to opioids. Burchett, a lifelong Johnson County resident and mother to three boys, has been practicing for five years. 

Lauren Jarrell, Regional Director of Retail Pharmacy, introduced pharmacist Donna Boleyn and staff and noted the excitement of having a pharmacy inside the clinic and offering more convenience for patients.

Stumbo invited attendees to be screened at no cost for diabetes or stroke risk, tour the clinic, learn more about low-dose CTs, and have lunch.

Kathy Stumbo, CEO, comments, “We want to thank everyone who came to see our new clinic and pharmacy location. We have some great things going on at Paintsville ARH Hospital and are excited to continue to grow and serve the community.”

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) – Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman and Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti are leading the national fight to protect equal opportunities in education and athletics for women. The group of six attorneys general filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky seeking to stop President Biden’s outrageous new Title IX rule.

The Biden Administration’s sweeping changes to Title IX overhaul the definition of sex discrimination and harassment to now include “gender identity” and “sex characteristics.” The new rules require K-12 schools, colleges and universities to allow males identifying as females access to women’s sports, bathrooms and locker rooms.  

“As Attorney General, it is my duty to protect the people of Kentucky. As a Dad, it is my duty to protect my daughters. Today, I do both,” said Attorney General Coleman. “The Biden Administration’s new rule would rip away 50 years of Title IX’s protections for women and put entire generations of young girls at risk. It’s wrong, and we are joining our colleagues in Tennessee to lead this fight for our daughters, granddaughters, nieces and all the women of our Commonwealth.”

Any school failing to comply with the new Biden Administration rule – even if they follow Kentucky state law – could lose federal education funding, including access to Free and Reduced Lunch Programs and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Grants.

The U.S. Department of Education reports that public and private schools across Kentucky received a total of $1.1 billion in federal funding last year.

Kentucky and Tennessee were joined in their challenge by Indiana, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia.