HAROLD, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal house fire that happened late Friday night in the Mud Creek area.

According to the sheriff’s office, the Mud Creek Volunteer Fire Department was called to a residential structure fire around 10:30 p.m. Friday along Kentucky Route 979 in Harold.

Firefighters learned after arriving on scene that a possible occupant was still inside the home. Sheriff’s deputies were requested to respond while crews worked to extinguish the fire.

Once the fire was put out and an investigation began, authorities determined the fire claimed the life of the homeowner, 79-year-old Juanita Hall.

Another resident was also injured in the fire and was taken to a local hospital. Officials say those injuries were not life-threatening.

The cause of the fire has not been released.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being conducted by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, the Floyd County Coroner’s Office, and the Kentucky State Fire Marshal’s Office.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A bill aimed at increasing transparency in Kentucky school districts is moving forward in the state legislature.

Senate Bill 3 passed the Senate Education Committee Thursday morning on an 11–1 vote. Republican lawmakers have said education legislation is a priority during this year’s session.

The bill is sponsored by Republican Senator Lindsay Tichenor of District Six. It would require school districts to make certain financial information more easily available to the public, including budgets, expenses, and reports.

Under the proposal, districts would be required to post monthly credit card statements online, along with the superintendent’s contract, any additional compensation, financial audits, and the district’s final working budget.

The lone no vote in committee came from Republican Stephen Meredith, who said he supports the intent of the bill but believes it does not go far enough.

Senate Bill 3 now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Louisville man accused of bringing large amounts of methamphetamine into Pike County has been indicted in federal court.

Andrew Billingslea, 33, is charged with possession of more than 500 grams of meth with intent to distribute.

According to court records, Billingslea was arrested on Nov. 16 after Pikeville Police received information that he would be transporting meth into the area. Officers began patrolling U.S. 23 and later spotted Billingslea driving into Pike County, followed by a second vehicle.

When Billingslea stopped for fuel, officers arrested him along with the driver of the second vehicle, Jonathan Jones, 35, also of Louisville. Investigators say a total of just over three pounds of methamphetamine was found between the two vehicles.

If convicted on the federal charge, Billingslea faces a possible sentence of 10 years to life in prison.

Jones continues to face meth trafficking and persistent felony offender charges in Pike Circuit Court.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Governor Andy Beshear says 10 people across Kentucky have died as a result of the recent winter storm.

Beshear confirmed the deaths during a Wednesday press conference. The victims include residents from Whitley, Morgan, Pulaski, Graves, Daviess, Johnson, Owen and Jefferson counties.

The governor said the families of those who died will be eligible for assistance from the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund to help cover funeral expenses.

One of the deaths involved 72-year-old Betty Veach of Whitley County. Beshear initially reported that hypothermia contributed to her death. Family members later said Veach, who had dementia, was found near train tracks after being reported missing and had suffered a head injury. State officials later said multiple factors contributed to her death, including exposure and a fall.

Another death involved inmate Marvin Knuckles, 48, of Morgan County. State officials say Knuckles died Tuesday morning after falling and sustaining a head injury while clearing snow and ice at Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex. He was transported to a hospital in West Liberty, where he later died.

Beshear also confirmed a death in Pulaski County. The county coroner says a man was found dead inside a camper trailer that had lost power during the storm. The victim’s name has not been released.

State officials say investigations into several of the deaths are ongoing.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky Power is asking state regulators for permission to temporarily raise electric rates if a final decision in its rate case is delayed past March 1.

In a motion filed with the Kentucky Public Service Commission, the utility said interim rates may be necessary while the commission completes its review. Any temporary increase would be subject to refund, meaning customers could receive money back if the final approved rates are lower.

Kentucky Power said it would prefer to use the lower rates included in a proposed settlement filed earlier this month. That settlement would result in an annual increase of about $52 million, compared to the nearly $96 million increase originally requested.

When the settlement was announced, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office said the average residential customer would see an increase of less than $5 per month if the agreement is approved.

The company said the request is based on indications that the commission may not issue a final ruling by March 1, the date new rates were originally expected to take effect.

WEST LIBERTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — An inmate at Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex died Tuesday morning after suffering a head injury while working outside during winter weather cleanup, state officials say.

According to the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, the inmate was part of a work crew clearing snow and ice from facility grounds before regular inmate movement began. During that work, he fell and was injured.

Correctional staff immediately transported the inmate to Morgan County ARH Hospital in West Liberty, where he was later pronounced dead at around 7:30 a.m.

State officials identified the inmate as Marvin Knuckles. The cabinet said the incident is being treated as a tragic accident and will be reviewed to determine whether additional safety measures are needed to prevent similar situations in the future.

Knuckles was serving a 12-year sentence related to multiple drug offenses out of Madison County, including trafficking and possession of a controlled substance, as well as tampering with physical evidence.

The cabinet also confirmed that Kentucky State Police have been notified of the death.

This marks the second confirmed death connected to the recent winter storm in Kentucky. State officials previously reported that a 72-year-old woman died during storm conditions earlier this week.

UPDATE: Governor Beshear confirms one death of a 72 year old female from Whitley County due to hypothermia.

However, a family member has disputed that classification, saying the woman died from a head injury after falling. The family member said the woman had dementia, was found along train tracks close to her home, after being reported missing on Sunday. 
 

State officials have yet to respond to the family’s statements.

Original Story

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Governor Andy Beshear says the recent winter storm may have contributed to several deaths across Kentucky.

During a briefing Monday, Beshear said three deaths are currently being investigated to determine whether they are storm related. He stressed that the causes have not yet been confirmed and did not provide additional details.

The governor said Central and Southern Kentucky were hit hardest by ice, which brought down trees and power lines and led to widespread power outages. At the time of this post, just under 35,000 utility customers statewide remained without electricity. Most of the power issues are happening where ice hit the hardest, such as Pulaski, Monroe, and Allen Counties. Power crews are continuing restoration efforts, with most outages expected to be resolved by Tuesday.

Beshear urged Kentuckians to stay off the roads if possible, warning that travel conditions remain hazardous. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reports that interstates range from wet to snow covered, while many side roads and neighborhoods are still difficult to navigate.

The governor plans to provide another update before the Tuesday morning commute.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two people were arrested following a drug trafficking investigation carried out Friday night by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies executed a search warrant at a residence on Big Branch of Bull Creek, where they reported finding a quantity of illegal drugs, digital scales, multiple firearms and cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.

Tyler McKinney, 25, and Heather Slone, 25, both of Big Branch of Bull Creek, were arrested and charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance with enhancement. A third individual at the residence was also arrested on outstanding warrants.

Sheriff’s officials say the investigation stemmed from information received through anonymous tips.

Anyone with information related to illegal drug activity or other crimes is encouraged to contact the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

Anonymous Tip Line: 607-949-2021
Text-A-Tip: 606-477-8477 (TIPS)

Photo posted by the Floyd County Sherrif's Office

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man has been indicted in connection with a deadly shooting that happened last fall.

A Floyd County grand jury this week indicted Joshua Gayheart, 35, of Beaver, on charges of murder and tampering with physical evidence.

The charges stem from the Nov. 21 shooting death of 35-year-old Sarah Slone. She was found unresponsive along Route 979 in the Beaver community.

According to earlier reports, police were called to the scene after receiving a report of an unresponsive woman. During the initial investigation, Gayheart was taken into custody after allegedly admitting to tampering with evidence at the scene.

Three days later, investigators charged Gayheart with murder in connection with Slone’s death.

If convicted, the murder charge carries a possible sentence of 20 years to life in prison.

Gayheart has remained in custody since the murder charge was filed. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County grand jury has indicted a Stopover man accused of trying to kill three people by trapping them inside a burning mobile home last spring.

Marty Hurley, 50, was indicted Wednesday on one count of first-degree arson, three counts of attempted murder, and three counts of kidnapping.

According to the indictment, Hurley is accused of holding two women and a man at gunpoint with an AR-15-style rifle on May 30 and forcing them into a mobile home. Investigators allege he then set fires inside the residence, threatened to kill the victims if they tried to escape, and barricaded the door before leaving the scene.

The three victims were able to escape after Hurley left, but all suffered smoke inhalation and minor burns. One of the women was reportedly intubated due to the severity of her injuries.

First-degree arson is the most serious charge and carries a possible sentence of 20 years to life in prison. Each attempted murder and kidnapping charge is punishable by 10 to 20 years.

Court records show Hurley was released from jail on October 8 after more than 60 days passed without an indictment. Prosecutors have now requested that a warrant be issued for his arrest.

MARTIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two Inez women are facing charges following an investigation into THC product sales to minors that authorities say are connected to the hospitalization of a Martin County High School student.

According to an arrest citation, the Martin County Schools Police Department began investigating after multiple incidents involving students bringing THC vape products onto school property. During interviews, several students told investigators they purchased the products from Smokin Hott Novelties & More.

Police obtained a search warrant for the business and reported receiving statements that the products were knowingly sold to minors. The citation states both women admitted to selling THC products to underage customers and acknowledged that identification was not checked during sales.

Investigators allege the business sold dozens of THC products to minors and at times encouraged repeat purchases through free products and incentives. One THC product, described as extremely potent, was reportedly purchased by a minor and later linked to the hospitalization of another student.

Both women were charged with unlawful transaction with a minor in the second degree and wanton endangerment in the first degree.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled that the special judge overseeing the murder case against a former Letcher County sheriff will decide for himself whether to remain on the case.

Former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Mickey Stines is charged with murder in the September 19, 2024 shooting death of Letcher District Judge Kevin Mullins inside the judge’s chambers.

Last month, attorneys for Stines filed a motion raising concerns about a possible conflict of interest involving Special Judge Christopher Cohron. The motion cited the fact that Cohron and Stines attended a meeting of the Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health and were seated next to each other one week before the shooting.

The defense also pointed to Cohron’s decision to not allow a psychiatric report to be presented during an upcoming bond hearing, arguing that it suggested possible bias.

In an order issued Tuesday, the Supreme Court said the motion was unclear on whether it was asking Cohron to recuse himself or requesting a new judge be appointed. The court did not rule on the merits of the request and instead left the decision up to Cohron.

If Cohron chooses to remain on the case, the defense may request further review by the Deputy Chief Justice.

No timeline was given for a decision.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — During a special called meeting today, the Floyd County Board of Education selected a new chair and vice chair.

Longtime board member Linda Gearheart, of District One, was elected to serve as chair, effective immediately. Gearheart previously served as vice chair.

Board members also selected Keith Smallwood, of District Four, to serve as vice chair.

In a social media post, Floyd County Schools thanked outgoing chair William “Junior” Newsome for his service over the past two years.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pikeville man was arrested Saturday in connection with a kidnapping investigation that began earlier this month and later led to a foot chase with police.

Pikeville Police say officers were first called to the Scott Avenue area on January 9 after a report of a man chasing a woman and taking her backpack. Officers were unable to locate either person at that time.

Later that afternoon, the woman called 911 from Double Kwik on Bypass Road, reporting that she was hiding in a bathroom and being chased by the same man. Police say store employees told them the suspect had just fled on foot after forcing his way into the bathroom while holding a knife.

According to police, the woman reported that the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Richard May, had been trying to force her to go to his apartment throughout the day. She said he tackled her, took her backpack, and told her she could get it back if she went with him. She later left the apartment but was chased again, leading her to seek shelter inside the store.

A warrant was issued for May’s arrest following the incident.

On Saturday, an officer spotted May during routine patrol. Police say May attempted to flee on foot, leading officers through city streets and causing damage to a parked vehicle before he was taken into custody. During the arrest, police stated that May was making facial movements as if he was about to spit on the arresting officers so they moved his face away from their direction. 

May was lodged in the Pike County Detention Center. He is charged with kidnapping an adult, wanton endangerment, menacing, fleeing or evading police, criminal mischief, and assault of a peace officer through bodily fluid.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Paintsville woman will spend the next 15 years in prison after being sentenced in Johnson Circuit Court on multiple drug trafficking and bail jumping charges.

 MARTIN, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man is facing multiple drug charges following a search warrant served Thursday.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — New data shows Floyd County’s unemployment rate declined over the past year, signaling modest improvement in local employment conditions.

According to preliminary estimates for November 2025, Floyd County’s unemployment rate stood at 6.1 percent, down from 7.1 percent in November 2024. The county’s civilian labor force was estimated at 11,931 people, with 11,205 employed and 726 unemployed.

Floyd County is part of the Big Sandy Area Development District, where unemployment rates remain higher than much of the state. The Big Sandy region recorded an overall unemployment rate of 6.9 percent, with several neighboring counties also posting rates above six percent. The only county to increase in the Big Sandy region was Pike who in 2024 had 6.6% unemployment rate to 7.2% in 2025. And despite coming down 1.5% in a year, Martin County was the highest in the region at 8.4%.

Despite the improvement, Floyd County continues to trail averages for the state and the country. Kentucky’s statewide unemployment rate for November 2025 was 4.5 percent, while the national comparable rate was 4.3 percent. 

Labor officials note the figures are not seasonally adjusted and reflect a snapshot of employment conditions at the county level. While Floyd County’s year-over-year decline points to progress, local unemployment remains elevated compared to state and national trends.

To see the full report, you can click here. 

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Traffic safety data from Kentucky State Police shows Floyd County ranks fourth statewide for the percentage of traffic fatalities involving unbelted occupants.

The data, which covers crashes recorded between 2021 and 2023, compares counties across multiple categories, including fatalities, serious injuries, total collisions, and seat belt use. During that time, Floyd County recorded 11 traffic fatalities and 40 serious injuries.

While Floyd County does not rank among the highest counties for total fatal crashes, the percentage of fatal crashes involving occupants not wearing seat belts placed the county fourth statewide. The ranking reflects percentages, not the total number of crashes or deaths.

According to the analysis, Floyd County had 39 total collisions included in the study period. State police say a higher share of those fatal crashes involved unbelted occupants when compared to many other counties.

The statistics are part of Kentucky State Police’s High Five Rural Traffic Safety initiative, which focuses on reducing serious injuries and fatalities on rural roadways.

To see the data, you can click here

Source: Trooper Michael Coleman, Kentucky State Police

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ)— A Richmond woman is facing multiple charges after deputies say she was under the influence while waiting in a pickup line at a Floyd County elementary school.

According to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, deputies arrested 30-year-old Jessica Rocha on Wednesday while she was sitting in line at Duff Allen Central Elementary School.

Deputies say they approached Rocha’s vehicle to determine who she was there to pick up and reported noticing a strong odor coming from inside the car.

Investigators say three children were inside the vehicle at the time and that Rocha was waiting to pick up a fourth child.

When deputies asked Rocha to step out of the vehicle, they questioned her about recent marijuana use. According to the arrest citation, Rocha told deputies she had used marijuana earlier that morning.

Police say Rocha’s eyes appeared bloodshot and glossy during the encounter.

Deputies also reported finding a container inside the vehicle holding a green, plant-like substance believed to be marijuana.

Due to the circumstances, the Department for Community Based Services was contacted and took custody of the children.

Rocha was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence (first offense, aggravated circumstances), operating a vehicle on a suspended or revoked license, possession of marijuana, and first-degree wanton endangerment.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Paintsville Tourism Commission announced early Wednesday morning that Tourism Director Jeremiah Parsons has died.

In a statement, the commission said Parsons passed away suddenly Thursday morning. Officials noted his strong love for Paintsville and his dedication to serving the community through his work with tourism efforts.

Parsons led Paintsville Tourism and was involved in promoting the city, supporting local events, and highlighting the people and places that make Paintsville unique. The commission said his commitment to the city and its residents left a lasting impact.

The announcement described Parsons as kind and deeply invested in the community he served. The Paintsville Tourism Commission asked the public to keep Parsons’ family, friends, and the tourism staff in their thoughts during this difficult time.

New national data from the National Human Trafficking Hotline places Kentucky in the middle range of states when human trafficking activity is analyzed using adjusted case statistics.

The data compares the number of trafficking-related signals received with the number of confirmed cases identified in each state. Signals include tips and reports made to the national hotline that may indicate trafficking, while cases reflect incidents that were investigated and substantiated by authorities.

Kentucky accounted for less than one percent of total signals nationwide but made up more than one percent of confirmed cases. That gap suggests a higher share of reports resulted in identified cases compared to many other states.

In raw numbers, Kentucky does not rank among the top states for total reports or total confirmed cases. Larger states such as California, Texas, and Florida continue to lead the nation in overall volume, largely due to population size and higher reporting activity.

When adjusted for reporting volume and population, Kentucky’s rate of confirmed cases rises relative to other states. That methodology places the Commonwealth in the middle tier nationally in several reports.

Experts note that rankings can vary widely depending on how data is measured. Some reports focus on total hotline calls, others on confirmed cases, and some on how often reports lead to investigations.

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and officials continue to emphasize awareness, reporting, and victim support as key tools in addressing trafficking.

To see the statistics broken down by each state, you can view them here.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A bill moving through the Kentucky General Assembly could change how some driver’s license and ID services are handled in counties without a regional licensing office.

Under Senate Bill 7, local officials such as county clerks, circuit clerks, sheriffs, or judge-executives could enter agreements with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to issue renewal and duplicate driver’s licenses and personal identification cards in their counties 

The bill would not allow local offices to issue first-time licenses, commercial driver’s licenses, or Real ID documents. Only renewals and duplicate copies would be permitted. The Transportation Cabinet would be responsible for providing and installing the necessary equipment.

Residents using local offices for these services would pay a $25 convenience fee in addition to existing state fees, with that fee retained by the local office. Counties could also enter interlocal agreements to share equipment and staff if needed.

Supporters say the change could reduce long wait times at regional licensing offices and make services more accessible in rural areas. The Transportation Cabinet would be required to report annually on the program’s impact.

The bill moved out of a Senate committee Wednesday morning and awaits a floor vote in the Senate. If signed into law, it would take effect July 1, 2027. 

To view the Senate Bill 7 in its entirety, you can click here

MASHFORK, Ky. (WMDJ) — One man was taken into custody after an hours-long barricade situation Monday in the Mashfork community of Magoffin County.

According to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were called to a home on Donnie Barnett Road after reports that a man, identified as Jamie Arnett, had entered the residence, threatened a woman, and was armed with a firearm. Deputies say Arnett later barricaded himself inside a bedroom and made threats of self-harm.

As the situation developed, deputies worked to de-escalate the incident while also alerting nearby residents and motorists to use caution due to an increased law enforcement presence. Authorities later clarified that, despite online rumors, the incident was not a hostage situation.

The standoff continued for several hours, with investigators reporting that the Arnett made additional threats toward responding officers. Due to his refusal to cooperate, the Kentucky State Police Special Response Team was requested to assist.

Just after midnight Tuesday, the man surrendered and exited the home without further incident. No injuries were reported.

Arnett was charged with burglary and lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

UPDATE: According to the Magoffin County Sheriff's Office the suspect to the Kentucky State Police's Special Response Team peacefully.
 

Original Story

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Law enforcement agencies are responding to an active situation in the Mash Fork area of Magoffin County involving an armed, barricaded subject.

According to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were attempting to serve a burglary warrant when the suspect barricaded himself. The Kentucky State Police is also on scene assisting with the response.

Authorities say the Special Response Team is en route, and residents and motorists in the area are urged to use extreme caution and find alternate routes if possible.

Officials warn that traffic delays are expected for an undetermined period due to the increased law enforcement presence.

No injuries have been reported at this time. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County man arrested last year after secretly recording a teenage girl has pleaded guilty in federal court.

Henry Jonathan Ritscher, 43, of Paintsville, entered a guilty plea Monday in Ashland to a charge of producing child pornography.

Investigators say the case began in September after a 15-year-old girl discovered a video of herself showering and changing that had been recorded earlier the same day. Police say the girl was a frequent guest at Ritscher’s home.

The girl told investigators she found the video while waiting inside Ritscher’s vehicle and used his phone while he went inside a restaurant.

A search of Ritscher’s property led to the discovery of multiple surveillance cameras hidden inside a tote in his garage. Police say the camera used to record the girl was concealed inside a phone charging block. Investigators say Ritscher removed the cameras after anticipating contact from law enforcement.

According to police, Ritscher admitted to secretly recording the girl for approximately a year and a half.

As part of the plea agreement, a charge of possessing child pornography will be dismissed. Ritscher faces a sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years in federal prison when he is sentenced May 4.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man accused in a crash that killed a teenager last year entered a plea of not guilty during a court appearance Friday.

Investigators say the crash happened October 6, 2024, when a vehicle driven by Keith Anderson crossed the center line and struck another vehicle operated by Kenny Auxier. Auxier and his passenger, Kayla Elam, were injured in the collision. Elam, a student at Magoffin County High School, later died from her injuries.

Anderson was indicted last month on multiple charges, including vehicular homicide, assault, and driving under the influence.

Anderson appeared in Floyd County Circuit Court for arraignment, where he was appointed a public defender and entered a not guilty plea before Judge Johnny Ray Harris.

Anderson remains lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center. A bond hearing was scheduled for January 27 at 11 a.m. The court advised that any bond would include a no-contact order and require Anderson to remain at least 1,000 feet away from Auxier.

An informal pretrial conference was set for March 29, with a formal pretrial conference scheduled for April 2 at 9 a.m.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — The candidate filing deadline has passed for the 2026 primary elections, setting the field for multiple county, district, and local offices across Floyd County. Below is the complete list of candidates who filed, organized by office. Candidates are listed with their party affiliation as filed.

Prestonsburg Mayor (Nonpartisan)

Rick Hughes (Incumbent)

Prestonsburg City Council (Nonpartisan)

Heather Ousley (Incumbent) 

Matt Slone 

County Judge/Executive

Robbie Williams (Incumbent) — Independent

Debra Hall — Republican

Doug Hopkins — Republican

Mason Tackett — Republican

County Clerk

Chris Waugh (Incumbent) — Democrat

County Attorney

Meka Castle — Democrat

Sheriff

John Hunt (Incumbent) — Democrat

Christopher Shepherd — Republican

Jailer

Steve Little (Incumbent) — Democrat

Steve Montgomery — Democrat

Shawn Stegall — Democrat

Ballard Tussey Jr. — Republican

Coroner

Greg Nelson (Incumbent) — Democrat

Property Valuation Administrator

David Layne (Incumbent) — Democrat

Magistrate – District 1

Mark Crider (Incumbent)— Democrat

Roy Ousley — Republican

Magistrate – District 2

George Ousley (Incumbent) — Democrat

Cody Conley — Democrat

George Issac — Democrat

Randy Davis — Republican

Dylan Patton — Republican

Magistrate – District 3

Mike Tackett (Incumbent) — Democrat

Glennis Caudill — Democrat

Jimmy Tackett — Democrat

Orville Mitchell Jr. — Republican

Magistrate – District 4

Ronnie Akers (Incumbent) — Democrat

Donald Hall Jr. — Republican

Constable – District 1

Gary Wolfe (Incumbent) — Republican

Constable – District 2

Gary Nelson (Incumbent) — Democrat

Constable – District 3

Ernie Moore (Incumbent) — Democrat

Gary Tackett — Democrat

Constable – District 4

Allred Newsom (Incumbent) — Democrat

Curtis Tackett — Republican

David Wakeland — Democrat

Eddie Case — Independent

Floyd County School Board – District 2 (Nonpartisan)

Jordon Case

Timothy Combs

Floyd County District Court Judge Division 1 (Nonpartisan)

Jimmy "Blue" Marcum (Incumbent)

Floyd County District Court Judge Division 2 (Nonpartisan)

Tyler Green (Incumbent)

Ashley Tackett Laferty

95th District State Congressional Seat

Johnny Ray Turner — Democrat

Tanner Hesterberg — Republican

Willie Crase Jr. — Republican

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Arraignment proceedings were held Tuesday for a pregnant Mingo County woman accused of attempting to murder a Pike County resident.

Angel Joy Hunt, 28, of Wharncliffe, West Virginia, entered a plea of not guilty during her appearance before Judge Eddy Coleman. Hunt was indicted in December on multiple charges, including criminal attempt to commit murder, third-degree arson, first-degree assault, first-degree strangulation, and two counts of tampering with physical evidence.

Hunt has remained in custody since her arrest. During the hearing, her court-appointed attorney requested a reduction in bond. The Pike Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office opposed the request, citing the severity of the alleged attack and the victim’s ongoing medical condition. The judge denied the request and ordered the $1 million bond to remain in place.

According to a warrant obtained by Kentucky State Police, troopers responded December 6 to a report of an unresponsive woman near a burned residence on Chestnut Branch in Freeburn. Investigators allege the victim was bound, beaten, strangled, and burned before a fire was set inside the home.

Hunt remains lodged in the Pike County Detention Center and is scheduled to return to court on June 3rd for a pretrial conference.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has filed a lawsuit against artificial intelligence chatbot company Character.AI, alleging the platform put children at risk by prioritizing profit over safety.

Filed Thursday in Franklin Circuit Court, the lawsuit claims Character.AI violated multiple Kentucky laws by exposing minors to harmful content, including encouragement of self-harm, sexual material, substance abuse, and psychological manipulation. The Attorney General’s Office says the platform lacks meaningful age verification and allows children to access dangerous interactions.

According to the complaint, Character.AI is marketed as harmless entertainment but instead encourages users to share deeply personal thoughts and emotions, which are then manipulated through unsafe advice and interactions.

The lawsuit references two deaths tied to the platform, including the 2024 suicide of a 14-year-old boy in Florida and the 2025 suicide of a 13-year-old girl in Colorado. Both cases involved prolonged exposure to chatbot interactions prior to self-harm.

State officials estimate tens of thousands of Kentuckians use the platform, including thousands under the age of 18. The lawsuit seeks court-ordered changes to the platform’s practices and monetary damages under the Kentucky Consumer Protection Act and other laws.

To see the full complaint, you can click here.

WOLFE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Prosecutors have dismissed a fetal homicide charge against a Wolfe County woman accused of ending her pregnancy.

Melinda Spencer, 35, was arrested last week after Kentucky State Police said she told a medical clinic she had aborted her pregnancy and buried the fetus. Troopers reported the abortion was carried out using medication ordered online.

A Wolfe County grand jury indicted Spencer Tuesday on four charges, including fetal homicide. However, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office later filed a motion to dismiss that charge, citing Kentucky law that bars prosecution of a pregnant woman for actions that cause the death of her unborn child.

According to prosecutors, state statute KRS 507A.010 specifically excludes such cases from fetal homicide charges, leaving them with no legal grounds to proceed on that count.

Spencer remains charged with abuse of a corpse and tampering with physical evidence, both Class D felonies, along with concealing the birth of an infant, a misdemeanor. The Commonwealth’s Attorney says those remaining charges will be prosecuted.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County woman is facing multiple charges, including drug trafficking and child endangerment, after police say her children were not properly restrained in her vehicle.

Paintsville Police were called Saturday to Euclid Avenue to check on a report of children riding without car seats. Officers made contact with the driver, who told them she was running to a nearby store and that was the reason the children weren't in secured seating.

Police say the woman did not have a driver’s license with her and initially provided a name and birth date that did not return any records. She also gave an age that did not match the birth date provided.

After officers questioned the discrepancies, she identified herself as Megan Neidlinger, 30, of Boons Camp. Police then discovered she had an active warrant connected to a 2024 shoplifting case.

Neidlinger was taken into custody and officers searched her vehicle. According to police, they found several bags of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a large amount of cash.

She is charged with meth trafficking, endangering the welfare of a minor, giving an officer false information, and additional offenses.

Neidlinger remains lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are investigating after two people were found dead following a house fire in Floyd County.

According to KSP, troopers with the Pikeville Post were asked to assist the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office Monday afternoon after a structure fire was reported in the Melvin community. The call came in around 12:20 p.m.

Investigators responded to a home along Henpen Branch, where emergency crews located two deceased individuals inside the residence. The victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Both bodies were transported to the Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office, where autopsies and identification are pending.

At this time, the cause of the fire and the cause of death have not been determined. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — According to the Floyd County Health Department, 17 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, were confirmed in Floyd County during 2025.

The health department says four additional cases have been identified and are being counted toward 2026, bringing the total to 21.

Health officials say public notices are typically not issued when cases are isolated and do not pose a broader risk. However, notifications were shared in this situation due to the potential for wider exposure. Officials say the community is now considered well informed and that no further public updates regarding these cases will be posted.

Pertussis symptoms can begin like a common cold and may include a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, mild cough, and low-grade fever. In more severe cases, symptoms can worsen to include intense coughing fits, vomiting, or difficulty catching breath.

Anyone who received a notification letter and develops symptoms is urged to contact a medical provider. Questions can be directed to the Floyd County Health Department at 606-886-2788.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Martin County man is facing an auto theft charge after police say he drove off in his ex-girlfriend’s car while she was hospitalized following the birth of their child.

Officers with the Pikeville Police were called Friday to Pikeville Medical Center to take a report from the woman. She told police her ex-boyfriend, 37-year-old Christopher Mollette of Tomahawk, had come to the hospital for the delivery.

According to the report, the woman said hospital visitation rules prevented Mollette from staying with her. She told officers she allowed him to sit in her vehicle to stay warm. Later, she noticed the car was missing and believed he had taken it without permission.

Police say hospital security video shows Mollette exiting the passenger side of the vehicle, moving into the driver’s seat, and leaving the area.

The woman told officers she later contacted Mollette by phone to ask about the car. She said he told her it was none of her business before hanging up.

A Kentucky State Police trooper located Mollette Saturday night in Paintsville and took him into custody.

Mollette is charged with auto theft and is being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

UPDATE: According to Kentucky State Police, Star Blair has been located and is safe.

Original Story

MILLARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing juvenile from Pike County.

Police say 15-year-old Star Blair, of Millard, was reported missing on January 1. She was last seen that day on Daniels Branch in the Millard community.

Blair is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing around 120 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the Kentucky State Police Pikeville Post 9 at 606-433-7711.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — State Rep. Ashley Tackett Laferty announced she will not seek re-election to her 95th District seat and will instead run for Floyd County District Court Judge.

Laferty announced her decision on social media Thursday afternoon. Laferty, who has represented Eastern Kentucky in Frankfort for four consecutive terms, said serving as a state representative has been one of the greatest honors of her life. She thanked her family, friends, and constituents for their continued support over the years.

During her time in office, Laferty pointed to several projects she worked on, including reopening the Wheelwright prison, completion of the 680 Connector, job creation at Infinity Construction and Design in Martin, funding for the Mud Creek Straightening Project near John M. Stumbo Elementary, and support for the Mountain Parkway expansion through Prestonsburg.

Laferty said she has made the commute to Frankfort for nearly eight years to fulfill her duty to the district while remaining close to her three children. She said her desire to serve locally and spend more time with her family helped shape her decision.

Laferty said she believes running for district court judge will allow her to make a greater impact in Floyd County. She noted she has worked as an attorney for more than 20 years and will continue serving as state representative until her term ends.