MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. — A man who escaped custody during a drug investigation has been taken into custody.

According to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office, Anthony Saylor was located and arrested following a traffic stop. Officials say Saylor was one of the individuals who fled during a search warrant conducted the previous evening.

Deputies say Saylor was wanted on multiple outstanding warrants and is connected to a drug trafficking operation identified during that investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Original Story can be found here.

MARROWBONE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man is facing drug trafficking charges after a reported drug deal led to a search of his home.

According to an arrest citation, a caller reported seeing a woman in a silver Chevy Suburban receive drugs Sunday evening from a home on Left Fork of Dry Fork.

Kentucky State Police located the vehicle and arrested the driver, identified as 45-year-old Jessica Shell of Grundy, Virginia. She was charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

The information from that arrest was used to obtain a search warrant for the home.

During the search, officers reported finding two plastic bags containing an unidentified white powder, more than half a pound of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a firearm inside a bedroom belonging to 53-year-old Homer Dwayne Hill.

Hill told police the powder was baking soda and denied involvement in drug trafficking. He also stated he no longer stays in the bedroom and rents it out.

He was arrested and charged with two counts of drug trafficking and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

Hill is currently lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

PERRY COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Multiple people have been indicted in connection to a March 3 death in Perry County.

According to court documents filed March 27 in Perry Circuit Court, a grand jury returned several indictments tied to the death of Ryan Huff.

Danny Asher was indicted on a charge of complicity to second-degree manslaughter. The indictment alleges he wantonly aided in the assault that led to Huff’s death.

Maranda Conner faces multiple charges, including complicity to second-degree manslaughter, firearm possession by a convicted felon, two counts of tampering with physical evidence, first-degree criminal mischief, second-degree escape and being a persistent felony offender. Court documents allege she helped during the assault and later removed a home incarceration ankle monitor and escaped supervision.

Brian Smith was indicted on a charge of murder, along with firearm possession by a convicted felon, two counts of tampering with physical evidence, first-degree criminal mischief and complicity to second-degree escape. The indictment alleges Smith shot Huff and later disposed of evidence.

Asher and Connor are currently held in the Kentucky River Regional Jail, while Smith remains held in the Leslie County Detention Center.

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) - Authorities in Magoffin County said a large amount of drugs was seized after a search warrant was carried out over the weekend.

According to deputies, the warrant was executed Sunday at a property on Rose Branch Spur in the Lakeville area.

Investigators said they found a large quantity of methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin. Deputies also reported finding methadone, three firearms, digital scales and packaging materials believed to be connected to drug distribution.

Authorities said the investigation involves multiple people and could lead to federal charges.

Deputies said they are working with federal law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek federal indictments against those connected to what they described as a drug trafficking operation.

No arrests were listed in the information released.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two firefighters were injured while battling an active wildfire in Floyd County this weekend.

According to Team Kentucky’s Division of Forestry, crews are working to contain a fire along Kentucky Route 1498, which is burning within a roughly 95-acre area.

Officials said the firefighters were injured after a shift in the fire’s pattern.

One firefighter was treated at an area hospital and later released. The second firefighter was airlifted to a hospital in Cincinnati for treatment.

The extent of the injuries has not been released.

Authorities said nearby residents are not currently at risk as crews continue efforts to contain the fire.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A former Pike County resident has been indicted on federal charges related to explicit materal involving children.

According to court documents, a federal grand jury in London indicted Gary Don Hampton, 49, formerly of Virgie, on March 26. He is charged with receipt and possession of the explicit material.

Court records show Hampton was originally arrested in September 2023 following an undercover investigation by the Kentucky State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Investigators reported that a phone was recovered during a search warrant. A review of the device allegedly revealed multiple files involving minors.

At the time of his arrest, Hampton was also wanted on warrants out of South Carolina, including charges related to exploitation of a minor and solicitation.

According to the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry, Hampton was previously convicted in Letcher County on a sexual abuse charge. He is currently incarcerated at Macdugall Correctional Institution in South Carolina.

No court dates have been announced.

BETSY LAYNE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Virginia man is facing multiple charges, including felony assault and DUI, following a crash on U.S. 23 in the Betsy Layne area of Floyd County.

According to court documents, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office responded to an injury crash on March 25. Deputies made contact with one of the drivers, identified as 23-year-old Carter Ferrell Willey of Wise, Virginia.

Investigators reported signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol, slurred speech, and combative behavior. Willey denied being the driver, but witnesses indicated he had been operating the vehicle at the time of the crash.

A breath test reportedly showed a blood alcohol level of 0.204, more than twice the legal limit in Kentucky. Court records also indicate an open container of alcohol was found inside the vehicle.

In addition to DUI (second offense) and traffic-related charges, Willey was charged with first-degree assault. Authorities allege his actions showed extreme disregard for human life, resulting in serious injuries to another person involved in the crash.

Willey was taken to the Floyd County Detention Center.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man died following a single-vehicle crash Thursday evening in the Prestonsburg area.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers were called to the scene around 6:37 p.m. on March 26 along Kentucky Route 1428.

Investigators say Shane Allen was operating a motorcycle when it left the roadway and struck a utility pole.

Allen was pronounced dead at the scene by the Floyd County Coroner’s Office.

The crash remains under investigation by KSP Post 9 out of Pikeville and local first responders.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Paintsville man was arrested Thursday after police executed a search warrant as part of a death investigation.

According to the Paintsville Police Department, officers served the warrant at a home on Third Street in Paintsville.

Police said Michael Jennings was arrested and charged with first-degree possession of a controlled substance, third or subsequent offense involving methamphetamine, tampering with physical evidence, possession of drug paraphernalia, third-degree possession of a controlled substance, and being a persistent felony offender, second degree.

Authorities also said Jennings was served with an indictment warrant from Johnson Circuit Court for first-degree possession of a controlled substance involving methamphetamine and other drug-related charges.

Police said additional charges and arrests are pending as the investigation continues.

The Paintsville Police Department is asking anyone with information about illegal activity to call its tip line at 606-792-2706.

HAZARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County man will spend the rest of his life in prison after being sentenced in a case involving crimes against children.

Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Thursday that 58-year-old Harrison Cress received three life sentences without the possibility of parole. The sentence follows a recommendation from a jury last year.

Cress was found guilty in October on multiple felony charges involving minors under the age of 12.

Officials say the case involved several victims. The investigation began after one of the children reported the abuse to a family member, leading to interviews with Children’s Advocacy Centers in Hazard and Ashland.

Several victims provided statements during sentencing.

Kentucky State Police investigated the case with assistance from the Perry County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutors with the Attorney General’s Office handled the case.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County man is facing multiple charges after a domestic disturbance call in Floyd County led to a foot chase.

The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called Wednesday night to a home in the Spurlock community. When they arrived, they reported seeing 34-year-old Shawn Spurlock, of Staffordsville, run behind the home and up a nearby hill.

Deputies say a foot chase followed through brush and over a hillside before returning back toward the home. During the pursuit, a deputy reported seeing Spurlock drop two bags believed to contain between one and two ounces of methamphetamine.

Spurlock was taken into custody inside the home. Deputies noted he had fresh scratches consistent with running through brush. According to the report, Spurlock denied being the person deputies were chasing and denied dropping the suspected drugs.

He is charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, fleeing or evading police, tampering with physical evidence, and resisting arrest.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man is facing charges after a crash on U.S. 23 in Floyd County.

Prestonsburg Police say officers were called to a single-vehicle collision around 8:37 p.m. on March 19 near 1887 U.S. 23 North, in the area of the Holiday Inn Hill.

According to a citation, the driver was identified as 68-year-old Joe Stanford, of Pikeville.

Police say witnesses at the scene reported Stanford indicated he was going to jail after the crash. One witness also provided cell phone video to officers.

An officer reviewed the video and reported it showed the vehicle swerving into the median, crossing into oncoming lanes, and eventually leaving the roadway before hitting a rock wall. Police said the vehicle traveled that way for about 13 seconds before impact.

Officers noted a strong odor of alcohol when speaking with Stanford. Due to the crash and need for medical treatment, field sobriety tests were not conducted.

Police say Stanford was taken to Highlands ARH, where he consented to a blood test. Results are pending.

Stanford is charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, operating a motor vehicle under the influence, and failure to maintain required insurance.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man has been arrested after being served an indictment warrant on a first-degree sodomy charge.

According to court records, a Pike County grand jury indicted Justin Damron, of Mouthcard, in February.

The indictment alleges Damron engaged in deviate sexual contact with a person younger than 12 years old. The alleged incidents occurred between July and December 2024.

Kentucky State Police arrested Damron earlier this month in Pendleton County before returning him to Pike County.

He is being held in the Pike County Detention Center on a $500,000 cash bond.

STANVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Louisville man is facing multiple charges after police say he assaulted first responders and troopers at the scene of a crash in Stanville.

According to an arrest citation, Kentucky State Police responded to a crash with injuries around 9:58 p.m. on March 21 along U.S. 23 in the Betsy Layne near the Cardinal Mart in Stanville.

When troopers arrived, firefighters and EMS were already on scene. First responders told police a woman involved in the crash had been seriously injured and ran to a nearby apartment.

According to the citation, Donald Clark, who was in the vehicle with the woman, was standing at the top of a staircase and refused to allow responders to reach her.

Troopers said Clark also refused to comply when they attempted to investigate and approached officers in an aggressive manner.

Police say Clark resisted arrest, kicked a firefighter and headbutted a state trooper. No injuries were reported during the altercation.

Clark was taken into custody and lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center.

He is charged with two counts of third-degree assault, disorderly conduct, menacing, obstructing governmental operations and resisting arrest.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A man convicted in the 2015 shooting of a Prestonsburg police officer has been arrested again, this time on drug-related charges.

Robert L. Powers, 38, of Sitka, was arrested Tuesday morning after a traffic stop in Prestonsburg. According to the report, Prestonburg Police officers stopped Powers on suspicion of DUI and found methamphetamine, marijuana, other drugs and what was described as drug trafficking paraphernalia inside the vehicle.

Powers and a passenger, Hillary Cline, 34, of Prestonsburg, were both charged with complicity to trafficking in methamphetamine, complicity to trafficking in marijuana, possession of controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Powers previously pleaded guilty in 2018 to charges including second-degree assault, wanton endangerment and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in connection with the 2015 shooting of Prestonsburg Police Officer Adam Dixon.

Police said Dixon was shot in the chest while attempting to arrest Powers after a pursuit. Dixon survived.

Powers was sentenced to 20 years in prison in December 2018 and was later paroled in February 2025.

He is now being held in the Floyd County Detention Center.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man charged in a 2019 murder case now has a new trial date after multiple delays.

Wesley Glenn Martin, 50, of Wayland, is scheduled to go to trial May 18, according to an order set Monday in Floyd Circuit Court.

Martin was arrested in February 2019 after the body of 26-year-old Jordan Tackett was found buried in a shallow grave in a yard.

A bond hearing in the case is also scheduled for next week and will be held over Zoom.

Martin remains lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Magoffin County man was arrested after deputies responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver in the Far Middle Fork area.

According to an arrest citation, deputies located the vehicle and observed it turn onto a gravel road without using a signal. Officers say the driver did not immediately stop when emergency lights were activated and continued down the road before turning around.

Deputies reported the driver, identified as 40-year-old Sonny Keeton of Salyersville, showed signs of impairment, including slurred speech, an unsteady stance, glassy eyes, and a strong odor of alcohol. The citation also noted the driver appeared highly agitated.

Officers say they found alcoholic beverage containers inside the vehicle.

During the arrest, the citation states Keeton pulled away from deputies, leading to a brief struggle before he was taken into custody.

Keeton was transported to Salyersville Medical Center, where he refused a blood test after implied consent was read, according to the report.

He is charged with DUI, resisting arrest, menacing, disorderly conduct, and several traffic-related offenses. Keeton was lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two men have pleaded guilty in connection with a deadly shooting in Pike County.

According to court documents, Michael Brown pleaded guilty to murder. Anthony Browning pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of tampering with physical evidence.

The charges stem from a January 2025 shooting on Laurel Fork in the Steele community. Kentucky State Police responded to the scene after receiving a call about the incident.

The two men were charged along with a third suspect, Michael Shortridge, in the death of Christopher Lester.

Brown and Browning are scheduled to be sentenced April 23.

A pretrial conference for Shortridge is set for April 1.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky Power is asking state regulators to reconsider parts of a recent decision in an ongoing rate case, warning it could affect service reliability and jobs in Eastern Kentucky.

In a motion filed with the Kentucky Public Service Commission, the company says changes made in the February order could limit its ability to recover certain costs and impact its financial stability.

The case involves a roughly $55 million revenue increase approved by regulators, though customer bill impacts were kept similar to a previously proposed plan.

Kentucky Power argues the decision could force reductions in vegetation management, including tree trimming, which it says is critical to preventing power outages.

The company also says the ruling could impact more than 100 contractor jobs in Eastern Kentucky and leave about $17 million in costs unrecovered.

Kentucky Power is asking the commission to revisit several parts of the decision. The commission has not yet ruled on the request.

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (WMDJ) — Kentucky’s season came to an end Sunday with an 82-63 loss to Iowa State in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32.

The Wildcats started strong, building an early lead and controlling the pace in the first half. Kentucky led for much of the opening period, but Iowa State closed on a run and took a 31-30 lead into halftime.

The second half belonged to the Cyclones.

Iowa State’s defense took over, forcing 20 Kentucky turnovers and turning those into points on the other end. The pressure disrupted Kentucky’s offense and prevented the Wildcats from finding any consistent rhythm.

Kentucky also dealt with foul trouble early in the second half, limiting aggressiveness on both ends of the floor.

After holding Iowa State to 31 points in the first half, Kentucky struggled defensively after the break. The Cyclones scored more than 50 points in the second half and pulled away late.

With the loss, Kentucky’s season ends short of the Sweet 16. Attention now turns to the offseason as the program looks ahead to next year.

PERRY COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County man has been arrested in connection with an ATV death investigation from late February.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Office says 26-year-old Noah Back, of Vicco, was arrested Saturday and charged with murder. Deputies took him into custody at his home around 1:30 p.m. and lodged him in the Kentucky River Regional Jail.

According to the sheriff’s office, the charge stems from the February 28 death of 16-year-old Emilynn Clark.

Officials say investigators, along with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, determined there was probable cause to believe Back’s actions showed extreme indifference to human life and led to Clark’s death.

The Perry County Coroner’s Office says preliminary autopsy results indicate Clark was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of her death.

The investigation is ongoing.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A bill that would allow cameras on Kentucky school buses to catch drivers who illegally pass stopped buses is moving forward in the state Senate.

House Bill 7 cleared the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee with unanimous support after already passing the House. The measure now heads to the full Senate.

The bill would let school districts use camera systems on buses to record stop-arm violations. Under the proposal, law enforcement would review the footage and determine whether a violation occurred. First-time offenders would face a $300 civil penalty, while repeat offenders within three years would face a $500 penalty. Revenue from those penalties would stay with the school district, though law enforcement could keep a $25 enforcement fee from each penalty.

Supporters say the goal is to improve student safety as children get on and off buses. Lawmakers backing the bill said illegal passing remains a serious and frequent problem across the state.

HATFIELD, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Belfry man has been arrested following an investigation involving allegations of inappropriate contact with minors.

Kentucky State Police responded to a home on Elkins Fork Thursday afternoon at the request of a Social Services investigator.

According to the arrest citation, a 15-year-old reported that Robert Blankenship, 27, had inappropriate contact with him and his two younger brothers. The teen also showed investigators videos that were part of the investigation.

Troopers arrested Blankenship at the scene.

He is charged with three counts of attempted use of a minor under 16 in a sexual performance, three counts of harassment, and one count of indecent exposure.

Blankenship is being held in the Pike County Detention Center on a $250,000 cash bond.

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (WMDJ) — Kentucky is moving on after a dramatic finish in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

The Wildcats beat Santa Clara 89-84 in overtime Friday, thanks to a last-second shot from Otega Oweh that forced the extra period.

Kentucky trailed 73-70 with 2.4 seconds left in regulation after a Santa Clara three-pointer. Oweh took the inbound, pushed up the floor and hit a shot from just inside half court as time expired to tie the game.

The Wildcats took control in overtime. Oweh scored the go-ahead free throws with just over a minute remaining to give Kentucky the lead for good.

Oweh finished with a career-high 35 points, along with eight rebounds and seven assists. Mouhamed Dioubate added 17 points, while Denzel Aberdeen had 16.

Brandon Garrison made key defensive plays late, blocking two three-point attempts in the final minute of overtime. One block led to a fast-break dunk that helped extend Kentucky’s lead.

Santa Clara was led by Christian Hammond with 20 points and Allen Graves with 17.

Kentucky improves to 22-13 and advances to the second round. The Wildcats will face the winner of Iowa State and Tennessee State in the Midwest Region.

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A former Magoffin County Middle School teacher has pleaded guilty to charges involving a minor student.

Jordan Cobb, 32, pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of procuring the use of a minor by electronic means, a Class D felony, and one count of harassing communications, a Class B misdemeanor.

Court records show Cobb used Snapchat in May 2023 to contact a 14-year-old student. Investigators say he sent explicit images and messages encouraging sexual activity. Authorities say he later sent threatening messages to the same victim through Facebook.

Under a plea agreement, Cobb will serve five years in prison and is not eligible for probation. The sentence will run at the same time as federal charges tied to the case.

Cobb is scheduled to be sentenced June 5.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police Post 9 in Pikeville has a new commander.

KSP announced Tuesday that Capt. Brad Riley has been assigned as post commander. He officially transferred to Post 9 on March 16.

Riley joined Kentucky State Police in 2009 after graduating from the training academy as a member of Cadet Class 87. He first served at Post 4 in Elizabethtown, then held assignments in executive security, Bowling Green and the agency’s special enforcement and investigations division.

He later returned to Post 4 as operations lieutenant. Riley was promoted to captain in 2025 and most recently served in the inspections and evaluations branch and the critical incident response branch.

According to KSP, Riley has received multiple awards during his career, including post-level trooper of the year honors and DUI enforcement recognition. He also served on the agency’s honor guard and is a certified collision reconstructionist.

Riley is a native of Grayson County and brings more than 16 years of law enforcement experience to the Pikeville post.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man has been sentenced to more than four years in federal prison after making threats against a local official on social media.

Ronald Ferguson Jr., 48, of Elkhorn City, was sentenced to 50 months in prison after pleading guilty to interstate threats in December.

According to court records, Ferguson admitted to posting Facebook videos in which he threatened to harm Pike County Judge-Executive Ray Jones, including statements about hunting him down and shooting him.

The charge carried a maximum sentence of five years. The judge ordered Ferguson to serve just under that limit.

Ferguson is currently being held in the Boyd County Detention Center.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man has pleaded guilty in a federal child exploitation case involving thousands of illegal images.

Michael Wayne Hilliary, 58, of McCarr, entered a guilty plea Monday to possession of child pornography.

According to federal officials, investigators executed a search warrant at Hilliary’s home on May 15, where they initially found multiple images and videos on a computer. A later forensic review identified more than 10,000 files involving minors, along with tens of thousands of additional files flagged during the investigation.

Authorities said some of the material involved children under the age of 12.

Hilliary is scheduled to be sentenced July 31 and faces up to 20 years in prison.

WEST LIBERTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Five people are facing charges after Kentucky State Police said drugs were found inside the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex in Morgan County.

The investigation began in September 2025 after EKCC contacted KSP about suspected drug trafficking inside the prison.

State police said the joint investigation uncovered allegations involving drug trafficking, money laundering, promoting contraband and organized criminal activity.

Investigators said two former correctional officers, William Caudill and Dwayne Skaggs, are accused of distributing narcotics inside the facility. Two inmates, Shane Wilder and Challis Davis, are also accused of distributing drugs at EKCC.

Police said Donnie Wilder, the mother of Shane Wilder, is accused of helping with the trafficking operation.

Caudill and Skaggs were each charged with promoting contraband, trafficking in a controlled substance, official misconduct and engaging in organized crime.

Donnie Wilder, Shane Wilder and Challis Davis were each charged with promoting contraband, trafficking in a controlled substance and engaging in organized crime.

According to an arrest citation, deputies were patrolling Ky. 30 about three miles from Salyersville when they spotted a moped with no working rear lights and a dim headlight.

The citation said the moped had two people on it, including 35-year-old Timothy Chambers of Zoe. Deputies said Chambers then turned abruptly into a driveway.

According to police, the passenger got off the moped and ran toward the Licking River.

After deputies stopped the moped, Chambers allegedly resisted arrest. Police said they also found a meth pipe in his possession that he tried to throw away.

The passenger was also arrested, but was not identified in the citation.

Chambers was charged with first-degree fleeing or evading police in a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle under the influence, resisting arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia, menacing, criminal littering and no operator’s license for a moped.

He was taken to and lodged at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville.

Floyd County Schools announced that CeCi Prater of Duff-Allen Central Elementary has been named the Kentucky Association for School Technology (KAST) Impact Teacher of the Year.

The award recognizes PK-12 educators across Kentucky who use technology to improve student learning and classroom engagement.

According to Floyd County Schools, Prater has been recognized for integrating digital tools into daily instruction in ways that support academic growth, creativity and collaboration.

The district said her work has also had an impact beyond her own classroom. School officials said she has helped promote technology use among other educators and has supported instructional practices across the district.

Floyd County Schools said Prater’s leadership, collaboration and focus on innovation helped her stand out for the award.

District officials congratulated Prater on the recognition and praised her continued commitment to student success.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man was arrested Friday after Kentucky State Police said he threatened his wife and forced his way into a home in the Jamboree community.

According to an arrest citation, troopers were called to Mingo Street around 5 p.m. on March 13 after a woman reported her husband was outside with a gun. Police said Ronald Wayne Coots, 72, of Pike County, was accused of threatening to kill his wife and others during the incident.

Troopers reported finding Coots on a porch holding a firearm. After repeated commands, police said he eventually put the gun down.

The citation states investigators were told Coots broke a window to get inside the home and left blood throughout the house. A bloody handprint was also reportedly found on a bathroom door where his wife had gone.

State police said video from a Ring doorbell showed Coots outside with a shotgun and pointing it at the door.

He is charged with first-degree burglary, first-degree wanton endangerment, first-degree unlawful imprisonment, third-degree terroristic threatening, menacing, and prescription controlled substance not in a proper container.

Coots was taken to Pikeville Medical Center for treatment of an arm injury before being cleared for incarceration and lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Three Perry County teens were arrested after Prestonsburg Police stopped a speeding vehicle and reported the driver was intoxicated and in possession of a fake ID.

According to a citation, an officer was parked at the Middle Creek National Battlefield on KY-114 on March 14 when a 2016 Ford F-150 was observed traveling at a high rate of speed and unable to stay within its lane.

Police said the vehicle was later located near the Mountain Arts Center, traveling 101 miles per hour in a 45 mile-per-hour zone.

The truck then pulled behind a nearby business and the driver turned off the headlights, according to the citation.

Police identified the driver as James Landon Sullivan, 19, of Hazard. Authorities said Sullivan admitted he had been drinking and showed signs of intoxication during field sobriety testing.

A preliminary breath test indicated Sullivan had a blood alcohol concentration of .166, more than twice the legal limit in Kentucky.

Police said three teens from Perry County were arrested following the stop.

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) —  A search warrant served in the Dry Bread community of Magoffin County led to the seizure of suspected drugs, cash, firearms and other items, according to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said the warrant was served at a residence on the evening of March 14.

During the search, authorities reported finding several grams of cocaine, along with multiple prescription medications, including Klonopin, Gabapentin, Oxycodone and Hydrocodone.

Officials also said deputies recovered about $1,200 in cash, digital scales, firearms, and ammunition.

No information about arrests or charges had been released as of this posting.

Photos from the Magoffin County Sheriff's Department

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Kentucky airman has been identified among six U.S. service members killed in a military aircraft crash in Iraq.

The Department of War said Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, died March 12 when a KC-135 refueling tanker crashed in western Iraq while supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Pruitt was assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida.

Officials also identified the other airmen killed in the crash as Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama; Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington; Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Indiana; Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio; and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio.

According to military officials, Pruitt joined the Air Force in 2017 and deployed four times during her career.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

LOUISA, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lawrence County man has been arrested following an investigation into child sexual abuse material.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers with the agency’s Electronic Crime Branch arrested 26-year-old Christopher Alan Price on March 12.

Investigators say the case began after authorities received information that Price had been sharing sexually explicit images of minors online.

Troopers obtained a search warrant for Price’s home in Louisa as part of the investigation.

Following the arrest, police seized a device they say was used to facilitate the alleged crimes.

Price is charged with one count of first-degree sodomy, 25 counts of promoting a minor under the age of 16 in a sexual performance, 20 counts of possessing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance, eight counts of distributing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance, and nine counts of sexual crimes committed against an animal.

Price was lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County couple has pleaded guilty in a child abuse case involving a young child who investigators say showed signs of severe mistreatment.

Jerome Norman, 44, and Mary Hall, 43, both of Raccoon, entered Alford pleas to one count of first-degree criminal abuse and two amended counts of second-degree criminal abuse.

An Alford plea allows a defendant to maintain innocence while acknowledging prosecutors likely have enough evidence to secure a conviction.

The charges stem from a report made in January 2025 after a staff member at the child’s school noticed injuries and concerning behavior. The staff member reported that the child had not been seen at school for more than a month due to an extended break.

When the child returned, school staff noticed chipped front teeth and a nose injury. Both the child and Hall told school officials the injuries happened while the child was outside playing and carrying wood.

Investigators later reported additional signs of possible abuse, including concerns about the child’s access to food and overall health.

According to court documents, when officers went to the home they found the child’s bedroom was a dark room with locks on the outside of the door.

After the child was removed from the home, the arrest warrant states he went into cardiac arrest and was transported to the University of Kentucky Hospital. Medical staff reported the child showed signs of severe abuse.

Norman and Hall now face possible sentences of 10 to 20 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 10.

HAGER HILL, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two women died after a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon in Johnson County.

Kentucky State Police say the crash happened around 1:31 p.m. on March 12 on Kentucky Route 321 in the Hager Hill community.

Investigators say Retina Meek was driving a 2001 Buick when the vehicle crossed the center line and hit a 2018 Chevrolet pickup truck driven by Jason Kinner.

Police say Retina Meek and a passenger in the Buick, Anita Meek, were taken to medical facilities for treatment. Both later died from their injuries. The news release from KSP didn't say if Kinner was injured from the crash.

The crash remains under investigation. Troopers were assisted at the scene by the West Van Lear Volunteer Fire Department and Paintsville EMS.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Prosecutors have asked a judge to delay the trial of a man charged with murder in the Amber Spradlin case, citing ongoing forensic testing.

Court records show the Commonwealth filed a motion requesting a continuance in the case against Michael “MK” McKinney III. The trial is currently scheduled to begin May 11.

According to the motion, DNA testing connected to the case will not be completed before that date.

Prosecutors said the Kentucky State Police crime lab is still processing two large DNA submissions. Testing has begun on the final submission, but the lab advised the work will not be finished in time for the scheduled trial. Another submission has been completed, but the report is still undergoing peer review and has not yet been released.

The trial had already been postponed once to allow time for forensic testing. In a previous order, the court noted that proceeding without the DNA evidence could potentially affect the defendants’ ability to present possible exculpatory evidence.

Prosecutors also noted the defense previously objected to a delay because McKinney was being held in jail without bond. The motion states McKinney has since posted bond and is no longer in custody.

The Commonwealth is asking the court to continue the trial and instead schedule a status conference in May or June to review the progress of testing and determine a new trial date.

HUEYSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are investigating the death of a Floyd County woman after she was found unresponsive over the weekend.

Troopers with KSP Post 9 in Pikeville say they were called by Prestonsburg 911 on Saturday, March 7, about an unresponsive female in the Hueysville community.

When troopers and investigators arrived at Mulberry Lane, they located a deceased woman outside near railroad tracks.

The woman was identified as 32-year-old Trishanna Anderson of Garrett. She was pronounced dead at the scene by the Floyd County Coroner’s Office.

Her body was taken to the Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.

The cause of death remains under investigation.

Dectives with Kentucky State Police Post 9 is leading the investigation with assistance from the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

Pamela Denise Sargent, 45, of Kimper, is charged with four counts of producing child pornography. Each charge carries a possible sentence of 15 to 30 years in prison.

The case began during a child exploitation investigation in Missouri. Authorities there arrested a Park Hills man on charges related to possessing and promoting child pornography and sexual exploitation of a minor.

Investigators said the man told police he had received sexually explicit videos from a Kentucky woman and her daughter, whom he believed to be 18 years old.

According to court records, investigators later traced the videos to Sargent.

Sargent had been scheduled to stand trial March 30. However, her attorney recently asked the court to allow her to change her plea, indicating she had reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors.

A hearing has been scheduled for March 20 in federal court in Lexington.

Sargent is currently being held in the Grayson County Detention Center in Leitchfield.

VIRGIE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Harlan man was arrested early Tuesday morning after a vehicle fire was reported in the Virgie community of Pike County.

Kentucky State Police Post 9 received a call around 3 a.m. reporting a pickup truck on fire along KY 610. Troopers and firefighters responded to the scene and found a truck and the surrounding area had been intentionally set on fire.

According to a citation, 49-year-old John Henry Bentley of Harlan admitted to starting the fire when first responders arrived. Investigators say Bentley told officers he started the fire to get police attention while he was under the influence of drugs.

The citation also states Bentley threatened to burn down a nearby home with people inside.

Neighbors reportedly told authorities they did not know who owned the burning truck.

Bentley was arrested at the scene and taken to the Pike County Detention Center.

He is charged with terroristic threatening, burning during a burn ban, public intoxication involving a controlled substance, and disorderly conduct.

Floyd Circuit Judge Johnny Ray Harris sentenced 46-year-old Robert E. Nuckols on March 5 on an amended charge of second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor.

Court records show Nuckols entered the Alford plea in February. Under an Alford plea, a defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that prosecutors have enough evidence to obtain a conviction.

According to the indictment, the charge stems from an April 2024 incident in Floyd County in which Nuckols attempted to induce a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.

The second-degree unlawful transaction charge is a Class D felony and carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

Court documents show the four-year sentence was recommended by the office of Floyd Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner and was reached through felony mediation.

Records also show Nuckols is a lifetime registrant on Kentucky’s Sex Offender Registry due to a previous conviction for second-degree sodomy involving a nine-year-old victim in Warren County.

Nuckols is currently being held in the Floyd County Detention Center.

LEBURN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are investigating a fatal crash that happened Monday night in Knott County.

Troopers with KSP Post 13 in Hazard say they received a 911 call around 8:02 p.m. reporting a single-vehicle crash on KY-80 in the Leburn community.

When crews arrived, they found a black Toyota Camry that had gone over an embankment off the westbound shoulder of the road.

Police say the driver, 68-year-old Keith Dingus of Langley, was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. The Knott County Coroner pronounced him dead.

Two juvenile passengers were found inside the vehicle. Both were taken to the University of Kentucky Hospital with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.

Investigators say Dingus may have suffered a medical emergency before the crash. His body was sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for an autopsy, and toxicology results are pending.

The crash remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police.

GLENDALE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Kentucky soldier has died after being injured in an enemy attack earlier this month in Saudi Arabia.

According to the U.S. Department of War, Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, of Glendale, was wounded March 1 during an attack at Prince Sultan Air Base.

Officials say Pennington died Sunday from his injuries.

Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado.

Governor Andy Beshear said on social media that Pennington sacrificed his life while serving the country and that he is praying for the soldier’s family and fellow Kentuckians.

Senator Mitch McConnell also expressed condolences to Pennington’s family and noted the risks faced by American service members stationed overseas.

Officials say Pennington’s death is the seventh combat-related fatality reported since February 28.

The Department of War says the incident remains under investigation.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Five people were taken into custody Sunday morning after Pikeville Police carried out two search warrants at separate homes, uncovering several types of drugs and other evidence.

Officers first served a warrant around 6 a.m. at a residence on Island Creek Road. During the search, police reported finding methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia, along with a firearm and a large amount of cash.

Authorities also discovered a minor living at the home, and social workers were contacted.

Three people were arrested at that location: 54-year-old Cathy McKinney Ratliff, 37-year-old Whitney Lowe and 21-year-old Aaryn Muncy. All three are charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and endangering the welfare of a minor. Lowe and Muncy also face marijuana possession charges.

About 20 minutes later, officers executed a second warrant at a home on Zebulon Highway.

Police say methamphetamine, marijuana and psilocybin mushrooms were recovered during that search. Wayne Buzard, 57, and Leslie Compton, 42, were arrested and charged with trafficking methamphetamine and marijuana, along with drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Investigators say several firearms were also found in the residence. Buzard was additionally charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

All five suspects are currently lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

HUNTINGTON, Wv. (WMDJ) — A Martin County man has been sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking operation based in Huntington.

Kody Harless, 28, of Tomahawk, was sentenced Tuesday to 106 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

According to court records, Harless admitted he obtained nearly five grams of fentanyl from a source in Huntington and intended to sell some of it. Police later discovered the drugs during a traffic stop shortly after the transaction.

Harless also told investigators he was involved in a larger drug conspiracy between July and November of 2023. Authorities say he traveled to Huntington to obtain fentanyl and meth before bringing the drugs back to Kentucky to distribute.

Harless was one of 27 people indicted as part of a federal investigation into a Huntington-based drug trafficking organization. So far, 23 of the defendants have pleaded guilty.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Harrodsburg man has been convicted by a federal jury on charges related to the unlawful distribution of controlled substances.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Jeremy Bryson was found guilty Wednesday following an eight-day trial in federal court in Frankfort.

Bryson was convicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, six counts of distribution of controlled substances, one count of conspiracy to use a DEA registration issued to another person and one count of money laundering.

Evidence presented during the trial showed Bryson operated Appalachian Family Medicine in Paintsville with his father, Don Bryson.

Federal prosecutors said Don Bryson had surrendered his medical license in 2012 after a Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure investigation into complaints about his prescribing practices.

According to the DOJ, the clinic operated as a cash-only facility that frequently issued illegitimate prescriptions for controlled substances.

Investigators said between January 2021 and early 2022, 14 different medical providers briefly worked at the clinic, many leaving after only a few days. Prosecutors said the providers were pressured to prescribe controlled substances while having limited access to tools such as drug testing and prescription monitoring reports.

Evidence also showed clinic staff used a provider’s DEA registration number without their knowledge in 2021 to continue issuing prescriptions.

Prosecutors said Bryson also used proceeds from the illegal activity to purchase a Ram 2500 pickup truck for more than $67,000.

Don Bryson previously pleaded guilty in the case in June 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced April 2.

Jeremy Bryson is scheduled to be sentenced June 2 and faces up to 20 years in prison.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County Schools has announced the appointment of Brentton Akers as the new principal of Adams Middle School.

School officials say Akers brings a strong background in education, leadership, and a commitment to student success.

Akers began his career as a high school mathematics teacher. He spent one year teaching in Pulaski County Schools before returning to Floyd County to teach at Betsy Layne High School, where he worked with students for four years.

Over the past year and a half, Akers has served as Assistant Principal at Adams Middle School, building relationships with students, staff and families.

A graduate of Betsy Layne High School, Akers earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Kentucky. He later completed a Master of Arts in Teaching and an Education Specialist degree at the University of the Cumberlands.

In a statement, Akers said he is honored and excited to step into the leadership role.

He said he looks forward to continuing to work with the students, staff and community at Adams Middle School and helping the school remain a strong place for learning.

Below is the official statement from Floyd County Schools

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) —  A crash involving a propane tanker truck shut down part of KY 201 in Johnson County Thursday afternoon and left one person dead.

According to W.R. Castle Fire-Rescue, the highway was closed at mile marker 9.5, less than a mile from the Lawrence County line, following the crash.

Kentucky State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement said a propane tanker was involved in the accident. Officials confirmed one fatality. No word on their identity at this time.

Authorities say the crash happened in a rural area. As a precaution, a small number of nearby homes were evacuated.

Officials also said no fuel leak was reported from the tanker.

At this time, KY 201 is closed while emergency crews respond to the scene.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — The second of two defendants charged in a federal meth trafficking case connected to Floyd County is expected to enter a guilty plea Thursday.

Briana Hunter, 31, of McDowell, was indicted along with Stephanie Hall, 32, of Maytown, on a charge of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

According to court records, the two were arrested in May 2024 after a Kentucky State Police trooper stopped their vehicle for excessive window tint. During the traffic stop, investigators reportedly found nearly half a pound of methamphetamine in the vehicle.

Hall pleaded guilty to the charge last month and is scheduled to be sentenced May 21.

Hunter is now scheduled to appear in federal court in Lexington to enter a guilty plea to the same charge.

The offense carries a possible sentence of five to 40 years in federal prison.

HAZARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — A man wanted in connection with a deadly shooting in Perry County has been arrested after a nearly 24-hour search.

Kentucky State Police arrested 43-year-old Danny “Blue” Harold Asher Wednesday morning in Leslie County. Authorities say the arrest came after someone reported a suspicious person in the area.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Office says the case began shortly before 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Bubby Combs apartment complex on Darkfork Road near Hazard. Deputies responding to a fight at the complex found 27-year-old Ryan Hunt on the ground with a gunshot wound to the chest.

Hunt was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sheriff Joe Engle said Asher and two women were reportedly involved in the altercation with Hunt before the shooting. Witness statements led investigators to obtain a murder warrant for Asher later that day.

Authorities say the two women left the scene after the shooting, and additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.

Asher is being transported back to Perry County, where he will face a murder charge.

*Photo courtesy of the Perry County Sherriff's Department

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A state lawmaker from Eastern Kentucky has filed legislation aimed at increasing oversight of utility regulators and addressing rising energy costs.

Senator Brandon Smith of Hazard announced Monday that he has introduced Senate Bill 8, a measure backed by Senate President Robert Stivers and Senate leadership.

According to Smith, the bill would update and restructure the Kentucky Public Service Commission to help it handle increasingly complex utility rate cases and infrastructure decisions that affect customers across the state.

SB 8 has been designated a top-10 priority bill in the Senate. Supporters say the proposal would expand the commission and add professional expertise in order to strengthen oversight of decisions involving electric, natural gas, water and telecommunications utilities.

Smith said the legislation is intended to improve accountability and ensure the commission focuses on affordability and reliability for ratepayers.

The proposal would also formally establish the Public Service Commission as an independent department within state government while updating its operations to better review utility filings and reduce regulatory delays.

WARFIELD, Ky. (WMDJ) — Four people were arrested Monday after a fight among adults outside Warfield Elementary School in Martin County.

The incident prompted school officials to place the school on a “soft lockdown” as a precaution.

According to the Martin County School Police Department, officers were called to the school parking lot after reports of a fight involving multiple adults.

Police say Gage Reed, 25, of Debord, and Ronald Reed, 29, of Sitka, told officers the situation began earlier with an altercation involving 21-year-old Caleb Costa, of Warfield, at a McDonald’s in Inez. The two men said they later followed Costa in an attempt to obtain his address so they could pursue charges.

Investigators say the Reeds pulled into the Warfield Elementary parking lot and began turning around when Costa and his father, Tony Costa, 48, confronted them on school property.

According to the police report, school security video showed the Costas approaching the Reeds. However, the report also noted the Reeds had the opportunity to leave but instead exited their vehicle.

All four men were arrested and charged with second-degree disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail.

Police also charged Sunday Costa, 45, of Warfield, with the same offense, but he was not taken into custody.

School officials said the soft lockdown was issued out of caution and that the incident did not threaten students or staff.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. — A Prestonsburg man and woman were arrested Saturday after officers responding to a welfare check reported finding drugs and small children inside an apartment.

According to arrest citations, the Prestonsburg Police Department responded to an apartment on Cliffside Circle for a possible domestic violence situation.

Police reported knocking on the door several times and hearing movement and children crying inside. When the door opened, officers said they noticed a strong odor of marijuana.

Inside, officers made contact with 20-year-old Michael E. Blanton and 21-year-old Hannah M. Blanton. Both were described in citations as appearing intoxicated.

Police reported locating drug paraphernalia and items commonly associated with methamphetamine use in the apartment. Some of the items were allegedly within reach of several young children who were present.

Officers also reported finding a prescription medication not prescribed to anyone living in the home, which they said could pose a risk to the children.

Both were charged with drug-related offenses and child endangerment.

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Playground improvements are underway at several Floyd County parks after the county secured state funding to install poured rubber safety surfaces made from recycled tires.

The Floyd County Fiscal Court received a Crumb Rubber Grant through the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, marking the second time the county has been awarded the funding.

The grant program supports the use of recycled Kentucky waste tires in public projects. In 2023, funding was used to upgrade Minnie Park, one of the county’s busiest playgrounds. After missing out on funding in 2024, the county successfully applied again in 2025 to complete improvements at a District 4 park in Betsy Layne. That project wrapped up this summer.

Before installation, existing materials such as mulch must be removed and replaced with a compacted gravel base before the rubber surface is poured.

County officials say the rubber material offers better impact protection for children and requires less upkeep than traditional playground surfaces. Leaders say they plan to continue applying for the grant with the long-term goal of upgrading playground areas throughout the county park system.

For more information, contact the Floyd County Fiscal Court at 606-886-9193.

VICCO, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County Central High School student has died following an ATV crash Saturday evening in Vicco.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Department says the crash happened on Oakwood Avenue.

Family members have identified the victim as 16-year-old Emilynn Clark. She was a passenger on the ATV.

Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle says four people were riding the ATV at the time of the crash, including two female juveniles and two adult men.

Authorities say the juvenile who was driving has been charged with DUI. Her name has not been released.

One of the adult male passengers was flown to a trauma center with serious injuries.

Counselors are expected to be available at Perry County Central High School on Monday for students and staff.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Kentucky Public Service Commission has issued its final order in a closely watched Kentucky Power rate case that drew strong reaction from customers and local leaders.

Under the order, the average residential customer will see an average monthly energy bill increase of $10.76 in the first year. That represents an increase of approximately 5.87%.

After the first year, there will be an additional 0.76% increase.

The PSC says the lower first-year impact is due to a provision allowing Kentucky Power to use certain deferred tax liabilities to offset costs. The mechanism, known as a DTL Rider, applies those credits to reduce customer bills in the first year rather than spreading them out under traditional ratemaking.

In its original application, Kentucky Power had proposed an average monthly residential increase of $27.30. That would have raised the average bill from $183.37 to $210.67, an increase of about 14.62%.

The Commission approved a lower overall increase through a modified settlement agreement.

The final order also requires Kentucky Power to undergo an independent management audit. The review will examine the company’s operations, decision-making processes and its relationship with parent company American Electric Power. The stated goal is to identify potential efficiencies that could benefit customers.

The PSC noted that Kentucky Power has lost about 12,000 residential customers over the past 14 years and has seen a 38% decrease in industrial power consumption within its service territory. Fewer customers have resulted in the company’s costs being spread across a smaller customer base.

The new rates take effect March 1. The order from the PSC can be view here.