FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A new Kentucky law changes reading instruction and strengthens rules for handling employee misconduct involving students.

House Bill 253 requires districts to eliminate reading curricula and programs using the three-cueing system by the 2029-30 school year. The bill defines three-cueing as teaching students to read through meaning, sentence structure and visual cues.

Districts must instead use scientifically researched strategies with proven results in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. Early childhood through fifth-grade educators must complete science-of-reading training by June 30, 2029. Districts and state agencies may not provide professional development using three-cueing.

The law also prohibits school districts and charter schools from entering nondisclosure agreements involving misconduct with a student or minor.

Former school employers must disclose disciplinary action and resulting resignation or termination involving abusive conduct when another district requests information about an applicant. Applicants with a finding of abusive conduct are ineligible for hire, while employees may be dismissed or terminated.

The law took effect immediately when it was signed April 10.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Prestonsburg Police Department announced Friday afternoon that a fourth arrest had been made as part of Operation Safe Harbor.

Jesse Gent, 19, of Sherwood, Oregon, was arrested Thursday after police obtained warrants following an investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of a juvenile.

According to police, the investigation began after allegations involving a 16-year-old victim were reported. Investigators allege Gent was in a position of trust or authority over the juvenile when he committed third-degree sodomy.

The victim was interviewed by forensic staff at Judi’s Place for Kids, and search warrants were later obtained for Gent’s electronic devices. Police said the devices were turned over to a forensic analyst with the Pikeville Police Department.

Investigators learned Gent had left Kentucky after the investigation began but was expected to return. He was taken into custody upon his return and lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center.

The case remains under investigation.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd and Magoffin counties are set to receive nearly $1.8 million in state funding to support industrial development projects aimed at attracting future business investment and creating jobs.

On Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced funding was approved through the Kentucky Product Development Initiative, which provides state support for site and building development projects across the Commonwealth.

Floyd County was approved for $1.3 million to help acquire the Allen Rail Site near Allen. The property totals about 40 acres, with approximately 30 acres considered developable. Floyd County Fiscal Court is considering purchasing the site as part of future economic development efforts.

Magoffin County was approved for $513,000 to help expand Gifford Industrial Park outside Salyersville. County leaders plan to purchase and develop a 98.4-acre tract across the Mountain Parkway from the existing industrial park after all three lots in the current park were placed under purchase agreement within two years of opening.

State officials announced more than $5.2 million in funding for projects in eight Kentucky counties, including Adair, Ballard, Clinton, Madison, Monroe and Montgomery, in addition to Floyd and Magoffin.

According to the Cabinet for Economic Development, the Kentucky Product Development Initiative helps communities prepare industrial sites to attract private investment and future job growth.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — Three men charged in separate federal child exploitation cases have entered not guilty pleas and are scheduled to stand trial later this year.

Andrew D. Lewis is scheduled for a final pretrial conference on Sept. 21, with jury trial set to begin Sept. 29 in U.S. District Court in London.

Bryan Cantrell is scheduled for a final pretrial conference on Sept. 21, with jury trial set for Oct. 5.

Simon Roxas also pleaded not guilty. His jury trial is scheduled to begin Oct. 6 before U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom in London. Court records show Roxas appeared in custody and was appointed counsel before entering his plea.

The scheduling orders establish deadlines for discovery, pretrial motions and other filings as each case moves forward. The orders do not address the underlying allegations or evidence.

Previous coverage of these cases can be found here.

TRAM, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County Code Enforcement is investigating an illegal dumping site on Powell Branch in the Tram community after officials say trash and an abandoned boat were left along the roadway.

According to Code Enforcement, investigators found mail and other documents in the debris containing names and addresses believed to be connected to those responsible.

Officials say the individuals involved have 72 hours from Wednesday to contact the Floyd County Code Enforcement office and arrange for the site to be cleaned up. If they fail to respond, the county says criminal summonses will be sought through the Floyd County Attorney's Office.

County officials also reminded residents that Floyd County has mandatory weekly roadside trash collection and that free disposal is available on Mondays and Fridays to Floyd County citizens once a month at the Rumpke Floyd County Transfer Station in Martin.

Anyone needing assistance with waste disposal is encouraged to contact Floyd County Code Enforcement at 606-886-9193.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — Attorneys for former Addiction Recovery Care CEO Timmy G. Robinson Jr. are asking a federal judge to postpone his upcoming fraud trial while they continue reviewing evidence and preparing the case.

Robinson's trial is currently scheduled to begin Aug. 10 in U.S. District Court.

In a motion filed Tuesday, defense attorney Michael B. Fox asked the court to continue the trial, saying additional time is needed to review extensive financial records, bank documents and other discovery produced by federal prosecutors. The motion states the defense is also seeking additional records, must interview witnesses who live outside Kentucky and needs more time to prepare for trial.

Fox also told the court he is recovering from surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon, which has limited his ability to travel and prepare for trial. The motion further notes he is scheduled to represent another client in a separate federal trial later this year.

According to the defense's motion, Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey indicated he had no objection to the requested continuance. The defense is asking the court to reschedule the trial for no sooner than January.

In a separate motion filed Wednesday, Robinson's attorney also asked the court to require prosecutors to provide more specific details about the fraud allegations. The defense argues the indictment does not identify the specific statements, communications and financial transactions underlying the charges and says the additional information is necessary to prepare Robinson's defense.

Robinson was indicted earlier this year on one count of wire fraud and two counts of engaging in monetary transactions involving property derived from unlawful activity. Prosecutors allege he fraudulently sold rights to nearly $6.9 million in Employee Retention Tax Credits while serving as CEO of Addiction Recovery Care.

The judge has not yet ruled on either motion.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Three Floyd County men have been arrested on federal indictments alleging child exploitation offenses following a joint operation involving local and federal law enforcement agencies called Operation Safe Harbor.

According to the Prestonsburg Police Department, officers on Tuesday, working alongside the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Floyd County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, served three federal indictment warrants issued by a federal grand jury.

Authorities said the indictments stem from investigations into allegations involving the sexual exploitation of minors.

Those arrested include:

Bryan Cantrell, 31, of Minnie, who is charged with production of child sexual abuse material and transportation of a minor with intent to produce sexually explicit material for distribution.

Simon Roxas, 23, of Prestonsburg, who is charged with possession of child sexual abuse material.

Andrew Lewis, 40, of Prestonsburg, who is charged with attempting to entice a minor online. Police said Lewis also has pending state charges of first-degree sexual abuse and tampering with physical evidence awaiting action by a Floyd County grand jury.

All three were lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center on U.S. Marshals holds pending their initial appearances in U.S. District Court.

Prestonsburg Police said the FBI has assumed the lead role in the ongoing investigations. Federal charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

BELFRY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Belfry man was arrested Sunday after Kentucky State Police say a property line dispute ended with a neighbor being struck by a vehicle.

According to an arrest citation, troopers responded around 8:46 p.m. to North Big Creek Road after receiving a report of two men fighting.

Investigators said the argument involved neighbors Ethan Marcum and Robert Blankenship Sr. over a property line. During the incident, Robert Lee Blankenship Jr., 28, of Belfry, allegedly drove across the center line and struck Marcum in the knee with his vehicle.

Marcum was taken to Tug Valley ARH for treatment.

Blankenship Jr. told troopers the collision was accidental, but after interviewing witnesses and those involved, investigators determined he intentionally crossed the center line and struck Marcum, according to the citation.

Blankenship Jr. was charged with second-degree assault.

HAZARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — Gov. Andy Beshear announced Monday that $2.5 million will be directed toward building approximately 25 additional homes in Eastern Kentucky's high-ground communities as the region marked four years since the devastating floods of 2022.

During events in Perry and Knott counties, Beshear handed over the keys to four new homeowners at the Skyview neighborhood in Hazard, broke ground on 30 new homes at the Chestnut Ridge development in Knott County and signed an executive order providing the additional funding for affordable housing.

According to the governor's office, the $2.5 million will help build about 25 homes across Eastern Kentucky's high-ground communities. The funding comes from money made available through a line-item veto earlier this year.

State officials say nearly 500 homes are planned across eight high-ground communities in Eastern Kentucky. Two developments have already been completed, including the Wayland high-ground community in Floyd County, where 14 homes have been built, and The Cottages at Thompson Branch in Letcher County.

The executive order took effect immediately.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — The final defendant in a federal drug trafficking case stemming from a 120 mph police chase through Floyd and Pike counties has been sentenced.

Ahmad Marques Moore, 27, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced Friday to 180 months, or 15 years, in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Court records show Moore will receive credit for the time he has spent in custody since his arrest in June 2024.

The case began after Kentucky State Police received information from a cooperating witness that a drug supplier known as "Face" was transporting methamphetamine and fentanyl from Akron, Ohio, to Pike County. Investigators later identified Moore as the suspected supplier and obtained a state search warrant for location data associated with his cellphone.

According to a federal affidavit, officers attempted to stop a Kia Optima after observing it speeding in Pike County. Instead, the vehicle fled, reaching speeds of more than 120 mph. During the pursuit, investigators said a package was thrown from the front passenger window. The chase was eventually terminated after the vehicle drove into oncoming traffic with its headlights off, creating a danger to the public.

Investigators later used the cellphone location data to locate the vehicle at a residence in the Shelbiana community, where Moore, identified as the driver, and front-seat passenger Dean Michael Blair, 25, of Snellville, Georgia, were taken into custody.

Troopers later recovered the discarded package in Floyd County. Laboratory testing determined it contained approximately 885 grams of methamphetamine and nearly 35 grams of fentanyl.

Moore and Blair pleaded guilty in February 2025 to possession of more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Blair was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison in May 2025, while Moore received the 15-year sentence Friday after his sentencing was delayed.

HYDEN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Three people were killed in two separate crashes Saturday on the Hal Rogers Parkway in Leslie County, including a second fatal collision that occurred while the roadway was closed for the first crash.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers came upon a two-vehicle crash near the 37-mile marker at about 2:54 p.m.

The preliminary investigation indicates a Nissan Juke driven by Taegan Mosley, 17, of Hyden, was traveling westbound when it crossed the center line and struck an eastbound Ford Expedition head-on.

Mosley was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Expedition and a juvenile passenger were flown to the University of Kentucky Medical Center with injuries. A passenger, Penny Ison, 64, of Cornettsville, was taken by ambulance to Mary Breckinridge Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

While emergency crews and investigators were working the initial crash and the parkway remained closed, a second fatal collision occurred at about 7:43 p.m.

State police said a Chevrolet Traverse driven by Tracie Whittymore, 42, of London, drove through the roadway closure and struck the rear of a parked commercial vehicle. Whittymore was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kentucky State Police said toxicology testing is pending in both crashes. The investigations remain ongoing.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg woman has been indicted on felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from a crash that seriously injured a pedestrian earlier this year.

A Floyd County grand jury on July 22 indicted 55-year-old Julia Vanderpool on one count of first-degree assault and one count of operating a motor vehicle under the influence. The indictment alleges the offenses occurred May 30 in Floyd County.

According to court records, Vanderpool is accused of striking a pedestrian with her vehicle, causing serious physical injury. Investigators alleged she showed signs of impairment at the scene and that she told authorities she had taken prescribed Neurontin and Xanax before undergoing field sobriety testing and a blood draw.

The pedestrian was flown from the scene with life-threatening injuries.

Vanderpool was initially arrested following the crash and later released on bond. The indictment moves the case to Floyd Circuit Court for further proceedings.

Original story can be found here. 

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County man is facing federal drug and firearms charges that could send him to prison for life if convicted.

Brian “Butterbean” Charles, 43, of Thelma, was indicted Thursday by a federal grand jury in London on charges of possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a convicted felon in possession of firearms.

The charges stem from a July 7 search of Charles' Johnson County home. During that investigation, Kentucky State Police reported seizing about three pounds of methamphetamine, 28 grams of fentanyl and nine firearms.

According to the indictment, the firearms allegedly possessed by Charles included eight handguns and a shotgun. Federal prosecutors are also seeking forfeiture of the firearms, ammunition and accessories, along with approximately $23,713 in cash seized during the investigation.

If convicted, Charles faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years to life on the drug trafficking charge. The firearm charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years to life that must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed, while the felon-in-possession charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years.

Charles remains lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville and is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court in Ashland on Aug. 21.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County officials are reminding residents that illegal dumping remains a problem and say enforcement efforts are continuing across the county.

According to the county, a recent illegal dump site was discovered along Allen Banner Road. Officials say cameras are actively monitoring known dumping locations, and anyone caught illegally disposing of trash could face prosecution.

County leaders say illegal dumping creates unnecessary cleanup costs for taxpayers while also posing hazards to waterways, railroad property and other public areas.

Officials also reminded residents they have a free legal option for disposing of household waste. Floyd County residents may dispose of waste at no charge once each month on either a Monday or Friday at the Rumpke/Floyd County Transfer Station, located at 200 Garth Hollow Road in Martin. Again, you must be a Floyd County resident and show your ID.

Anyone who witnesses illegal dumping is encouraged to report it to Floyd County Code Enforcement at 606-886-9193.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Attorneys for Wesley Martin are asking a Floyd Circuit Court judge to block prosecutors from introducing evidence of alleged prior acts at his upcoming murder trial.

In a motion filed Wednesday, defense attorney Ned Pillersdorf argues prosecutors waited more than six years and, until about 12 days before trial to notify the defense they intended to introduce testimony from two witnesses under Kentucky Rule of Evidence 404(b). He argues the late notice leaves the defense little time to investigate the allegations or interview witnesses.

The motion also renews Martin's claim that DNA evidence supports his innocence, arguing testing excluded Martin as the source of hair recovered near the victim and instead identified an unknown Caucasian male.

A judge has not yet ruled on the motion. Martin's trial is scheduled to begin Aug. 3.

For previous coverage of what the prosecution recently files, you can click here. 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Gov. Andy Beshear announced Wednesday that Kentucky will use unexpected state revenues to prevent planned Medicaid cuts, provide additional funding for the Michelle P. Waiver program and increase support for senior meals.

In a news release on Wednesday, the governor said the funding is being made possible by an unbudgeted $476 million budget surplus and more than $350 million in unexpected corporate income tax payments received by the state.

According to Beshear, $255 million will be used to close a funding gap in Medicaid and prevent a planned 4% reduction in Medicaid provider reimbursement rates. The administration also plans to fully fund existing Michelle P. Waiver slots that were underfunded in the state budget and add $4 million to Kentucky's senior meals program for Fiscal Year 2027.

The Michelle P. Waiver is a Kentucky Medicaid program that helps children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive care and support services in their homes and communities.

Beshear said more than $400 million in the unexpected revenue will also be deposited into the state's Budget Reserve Trust Fund, commonly known as the rainy day fund.

The governor said the additional funding became available after stronger-than-expected state revenues at the close of the fiscal year.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County Schools has been awarded funding through the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program for the 2026-27 school year, providing participating elementary schools with fresh produce for students.

According to the district, the grant was approved through the Kentucky Department of Education's Division of School and Community Nutrition and will fund the program from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program provides students with nutritious snacks during the school day while introducing them to a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables they may not otherwise have the opportunity to try.

Established through the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008, the program is designed to encourage healthy eating habits among elementary school students.

Superintendent Tonya Horne-Williams said the district appreciates the continued support of the Kentucky Department of Education and the USDA in promoting student health, wellness and academic success.

SOUTH WILLIAMSON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man is facing multiple felony animal cruelty charges after Kentucky State Police said troopers found several dead cats and malnourished dogs at a property near South Williamson.

According to an arrest citation, troopers responded Sunday to an animal welfare complaint on New Camp Road. A caller reported seeing several deceased cats on the property.

Police said they found three dogs roaming nearby, while a neighbor pointed out two dead cats and multiple piles of decomposing fur in the backyard. Inside the home, troopers also reported finding a severely malnourished dog.

Joseph E. Newcomb, 33, of Hardy, was identified as the person staying at the residence. According to the citation, Newcomb told troopers the dogs had gotten into the house, so he let them outside. Investigators said he was unable to account for the dead cats and told them the animals had eaten the last of their food.

Newcomb was arrested on 14 counts of torture of a dog or cat, a felony. He was later released on bond and is scheduled to be arraigned Aug. 4.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County Schools has been awarded a $200,000 Opioid Abatement Referral Grant to expand support services for students and families affected by substance abuse.

The funding was presented by Floyd County Judge-Executive Robbie Williams and the Floyd County Fiscal Court and will be administered through the district’s Family Resource and Youth Service Centers (FRYSC).

According to the district, the grant will allow FRYSC staff to provide expanded assistance to students whose lives have been impacted by opioid use within their households. Resources will be used to address immediate family needs while connecting families with services that promote long-term stability, well-being and student success.

School officials said the initiative began in 2024 through a partnership between Floyd County Schools, the Floyd County Fiscal Court and FRYSC leaders to pursue opioid settlement funding for local students and families.

Youth Service Center Director Teresa Griffith said the grant will allow schools to reach more students affected by opioid use while providing resources that were previously unavailable. 
 

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Salyersville man was killed Monday afternoon while helping set up a mobile home in Magoffin County.

Emergency crews were dispatched just before 3 p.m. to Calvin Cain Trailer Court on Burning Fork after receiving a report of a mobile home accident.

Malcolm Joseph Barry III, 63, was one of four people working to level the mobile home on concrete blocks when one side slipped off the blocks, causing the home to fall onto him.

Barry was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was transported to the Kentucky Medical Examiner's Office in Frankfort for an autopsy.

Authorities found no indication of foul play or mechanical failure. The incident remains under investigation by the Magoffin County Sheriff's Office, the Magoffin County Coroner's Office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Prosecutors have filed notice that they intend to introduce evidence at the upcoming murder trial of Wesley Martin detailing alleged prior abuse of Jordan Tackett, the child whose remains were discovered on Martin's property in 2019.

The notice, filed Monday in Floyd Circuit Court, states the Commonwealth plans to present testimony from two witnesses who previously told investigators they observed Martin discipline Tackett by placing him in extended "timeout," instructing him not to move or speak, and restraining him in a chair with zip ties. Prosecutors note those statements were provided to the defense more than six years ago and are not new evidence.

According to the filing, prosecutors argue the testimony is relevant to showing the nature of the relationship between Martin and Tackett. The Commonwealth also contends the evidence is relevant because Tackett's body was allegedly found buried on Martin's property with his hands and feet bound and a plastic zip tie still attached to one wrist.

The filing asks the court to allow the testimony under Kentucky Rule of Evidence 404(b), which permits certain evidence of prior acts for limited purposes, such as proving intent, preparation, plan or the relationship between a defendant and an alleged victim, rather than to show a person's character.

Prosecutors said the notice was filed to comply with the rule's notice requirements before trial and argued the defense has long been aware of the witness statements. A judge has not yet ruled on whether the evidence will be admitted at trial.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Former Eastern Kentucky lawmaker Rocky Adkins has taken the first formal step toward a campaign for Kentucky governor, filing campaign finance paperwork ahead of the 2027 election.

Adkins, who represented northeastern Kentucky in the House of Representatives for more than 30 years, recently left his position as senior advisor to Gov. Andy Beshear after serving in the administration since 2019.

The Democrat is expected to formally announce his campaign Tuesday. Beshear cannot seek another term because of Kentucky's term limits.

Adkins was House Democratic floor leader before joining the Beshear administration and has long been one of the most recognizable political figures in Eastern Kentucky.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Kentucky Court of Appeals has upheld a Floyd Circuit Court ruling denying post-conviction relief sought by a Floyd County man serving a life sentence for a 1989 murder.

In a decision issued July 17, the Court of Appeals affirmed the denial of a CR 60.02 motion filed by Michael Lee Crisp, who was convicted of murdering Ricky Hall in Floyd County in 1989 and sentenced to life in prison.

Crisp argued that his judgment was no longer equitable because his indictment incorrectly classified the murder charge as a Class A felony rather than a capital offense. He also argued that after the Kentucky Parole Board later ordered him to serve out the remainder of his life sentence, he should be resentenced.

The Court of Appeals concluded the claims either had already been litigated or could have been raised in earlier proceedings, making them improper for relief under CR 60.02. The court also cited a 2024 Kentucky Supreme Court decision confirming the Parole Board has the authority to issue serve-out decisions for inmates serving life sentences.

According to the opinion, Crisp became eligible for parole after serving 12 years and was considered for parole multiple times before the board ultimately ordered him to serve the remainder of his sentence. The appellate court concluded the Floyd Circuit Court properly denied his request for relief.

According to the Kentucky Online Offender Lookup, Crisp is currently serving his life sentence at the Little Sandy Correction Complex in Sandy Hook.

MARTIN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Former Martin Mayor Alan Reed Whicker, who served on the Martin City Council before being appointed mayor in 1995, has died. He was 77.

According to his obituary, Whicker passed away Friday, July 17, at his home in Martin.

Whicker was unanimously appointed mayor by the Martin City Council in June 1995 following the resignation of then-Mayor Raymond Griffith, who stepped down for health reasons. Before becoming mayor, Whicker served on the city council. He remained mayor until March 2000.

Outside of public service, Whicker spent many years as a staff representative with the United Steelworkers and also worked with ARH Hospitals. His obituary describes him as a devoted family man who enjoyed fishing, cheering on the University of Kentucky Wildcats and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Molly Whicker; children Christopher Reed Whicker, Tyler Ramey and Tiffany Calhoun; and six grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 20, at 2 p.m. at Hindman Funeral Services Chapel, with Brent Tackett officiating. Burial will follow at Mountain Memory Gardens in Hindman. Visitation will be held Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m., with an additional service at 7 p.m.

WHITESBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A woman was critically injured and a man died following a shooting Saturday afternoon in Letcher County.

Kentucky State Police say the shooting was reported around 4:40 p.m. at a laundromat on Jenkins Road in Whitesburg.

Investigators say 54-year-old Sarah Wyatt, of Whitesburg, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was airlifted to Pikeville Medical Center, where she remains in critical condition.

According to the preliminary investigation, the suspected shooter, 62-year-old Richard Wyatt Sr., fled the scene with his son, 33-year-old Richard Wyatt Jr., to another residence on Jenkins Road. Police say Richard Wyatt Sr. died there from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The bullet also struck Richard Wyatt Jr., who drove himself to Whitesburg ARH Hospital before being transferred to Pikeville Medical Center. He is listed in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Pike and Wolfe counties are among three Kentucky counties newly certified as Recovery Ready Communities, a designation recognizing communities that have established coordinated systems for addiction prevention, treatment and recovery services.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced Thursday that Pike, Wolfe and Meade counties received the certification, bringing the statewide total to 42 Recovery Ready Communities.

According to the Governor's Office, Pike County's recovery efforts include partnerships with the Pike County Health Department, Mountain Comprehensive Care Center, BrightView, Spero Health and the UNITE Pike Coalition. Officials also highlighted The BEAR Healthcare Clinic for providing integrated addiction, behavioral health and mental health services.

In Wolfe County, officials cited collaboration between Wolfe Countians Against Drugs, Wolfe County Schools, public health agencies, law enforcement and regional recovery organizations. The county also offers school-based prevention programs, a permanent medication disposal site and expanded access to naloxone.

The Governor's Office said the newly certified counties expand access to addiction treatment and recovery services for more than 95,000 additional Kentuckians.

KENTUCKY (WMDJ) — Kentucky health officials are investigating 192 reported cases of cyclosporiasis, including 108 laboratory-confirmed cases, as federal investigators have identified shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in five states, including Kentucky, as a likely source of many illnesses.

The Kentucky Department for Public Health says seven people have been hospitalized. Confirmed cases have been reported in 36 Kentucky counties, Locally, four in Letcher County and one in Morgan County. The counties with the most cases are Jefferson with 30, Madison with 10, and Fayette with 9.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration say their investigation traced the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied from Mexico and served at Taco Bell locations in Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. The FDA identified a single supplier, but officials have not publicly named the company.

Earlier this week, Taco Bell said it had voluntarily and temporarily removed certain ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution while continuing to work with public health officials.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora. Symptoms typically begin two to 14 days after exposure and commonly include prolonged watery diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal cramping. The illness is generally treated with antibiotics.

Health officials encourage anyone who develops severe or prolonged diarrhea after eating fresh produce or dining at an affected Taco Bell restaurant to contact a healthcare provider.

Editor's Note (July 20): After this story was published, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that a laboratory test that initially appeared to detect Cyclospora in a lettuce sample was later determined to be a false positive. The FDA says its investigation into the outbreak remains ongoing.

FREEBURN, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man was airlifted Friday morning after a two-vehicle crash in the Freeburn community.

According to Kentucky State Police, the collision happened around 10:15 a.m. on State Highway 194 East.

The preliminary investigation indicates Morris Casey was driving a 2010 Ford Ranger eastbound when it struck the rear of a stopped coal truck. The truck had stopped because of road construction.

Casey was airlifted to a trauma center for treatment of his injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

SASSAFRAS, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Knott County woman was killed early Friday morning in a single-vehicle crash on KY 15 in the Sassafras community.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers were called to the scene shortly before 4 a.m. on July 17.

The preliminary investigation indicates that 39-year-old Melisa Slone, of Garner, was driving a northbound white Chevrolet Silverado when the truck struck a rock in the roadway. Police said the impact caused the vehicle to lose control and overturn, ejecting Slone from the truck.

Slone was pronounced dead at the scene by the Knott County Coroner's Office.

Investigators said the preliminary investigation indicates Slone was not wearing a seat belt. Alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor, and toxicology results are pending.

The crash remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree assault in connection with a stabbing at a Prestonsburg apartment complex last year.

According to a judgment entered July 16 in Floyd Circuit Court, 32-year-old Tyler Dakota Newsome pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree assault, a Class B felony. The charge stemmed from an incident on or about Oct. 3, 2025. As part of the plea agreement, a charge of tampering with physical evidence and another count were dismissed. 

Prestonsburg police said the incident occurred shortly after midnight at the Stonecrest townhouse complex. Officers found a man suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen near a guardrail. Investigators alleged the victim had argued with Newsome after asking him to move out. According to police, Newsome later entered the victim’s room and stabbed him while he was in bed.

Police said Newsome admitted to stabbing the victim but claimed the knife had been left on a kitchen table. Officers were unable to locate the weapon.

Judge Johnny Ray Harris sentenced Newsome to 10 years in prison. Because first-degree assault is a violent offense under Kentucky law, Newsome must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. 

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two Floyd County men were arrested Thursday after deputies said a traffic stop led to the discovery of stolen telecommunications cable, a stolen propane tank and firearms with altered serial numbers.

According to arrest citations, Floyd County Sheriff's Deputy Brian Kidd stopped a 1998 Toyota Corolla on Ky. 194 in the Endicott community after noticing the vehicle did not have a visible license plate.

The driver, Ronald Johnson, 42, of Prestonsburg, allegedly admitted he had taken a propane tank reported stolen from a business in Endicott the previous day. During the investigation, Deputy Brian Walker noticed what appeared to be telecommunications cable protruding from the vehicle's trunk. Deputies reported finding approximately 500 feet of cable they believed belonged to AT&T.

Johnson allegedly told deputies that he and passenger Gary Matthew Burchett, 37, of Prestonsburg, had cut and stolen the cable from the Lower Johns Creek area of Pike County. Deputies also reported finding battery-operated cable cutters, a piece of wire believed to have been used to cut the cable, and three long guns with serial numbers that appeared to have been removed.

Burchett denied participating in the cable theft, according to his citation, and told deputies he did not know why Johnson had implicated him.

Johnson was charged with first-degree criminal mischief, defacing a firearm, failure of owner to maintain required insurance, failure to register a motor vehicle transfer, no registration receipt and operating a vehicle without a registration plate. Burchett was charged with first-degree criminal mischief and defacing a firearm.

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Magoffin County man is facing multiple charges after deputies say he became combative while responding to reports he was attempting to enter apartments and a nearby home without permission.

According to an arrest citation, deputies located 52-year-old Timothy Lynn McKenzie on Parkway Drive Tuesday night. He allegedly ignored repeated commands, charged toward a deputy and struggled with law enforcement before being taken into custody.

McKenzie is charged with attempted third-degree burglary, third-degree assault of a police officer, resisting arrest, menacing, public intoxication (controlled substance) and second-degree disorderly conduct.

He was taken to Paintsville ARH for medical clearance before being lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

McKenzie is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

HAZARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — Perry County Public Schools is among 20 school districts nationwide selected for a federal review of Title IX policies and procedures, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

The Office for Civil Rights will examine whether the district has policies and procedures in place to accurately collect and report data involving allegations of sexual misconduct by school employees, and whether it complies with federal Title IX requirements. Perry County is the only Kentucky district included in the review.

In a statement, the district confirmed it received a letter from the Office for Civil Rights regarding its Title IX policies and procedures. School officials said they are cooperating with the review, responding to requests for information, and remain committed to student safety. The district also said it is unsure why it was selected.

The Department of Education has not alleged any wrongdoing by Perry County Public Schools, and the review remains ongoing.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man charged in a 2025 shooting involving his ex-wife appeared in Floyd Circuit Court on Thursday, but the case was delayed as his attorney said the defense is still awaiting discovery.

Ronald Ramsey is accused of opening fire on a vehicle carrying his ex-wife, her boyfriend and the couple's 16-year-old son while traveling on U.S. 23 near Harold in May 2025. Both adults were struck by gunfire and survived.

Ramsey is charged with two counts of attempted murder, one count of first-degree assault and one count of first-degree wanton endangerment.

During Thursday's hearing, Ramsey's attorney requested a continuance while awaiting discovery. Judge Johnny Ray Harris scheduled an informal pretrial for Sept. 24 and a formal pretrial for Oct. 1.

Original story can be found here.

McDOWELL, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man has been arrested after being indicted earlier this month on a child sexual abuse charge.

Joshua Hopkins, of McDowell, was taken into custody Tuesday by the Floyd County Sheriff's Department on an indictment warrant charging him with one count of first-degree sexual abuse involving a victim younger than 12.

The Floyd County Grand Jury returned the indictment on July 8. According to the indictment, the offense is alleged to have occurred in October 2019.

Under Kentucky law, first-degree sexual abuse involving a victim younger than 12 is a Class C felony punishable by five to 10 years in prison upon conviction

Hopkins is scheduled to appear in Floyd Circuit Court on Aug. 20.

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A woman was arrested Thursday after Magoffin County deputies found her unresponsive inside a vehicle parked at the BP station along the Mountain Parkway.

According to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Tyler Lafferty discovered the woman slumped over in the passenger seat while on patrol. Deputies said it took several verbal attempts to wake her.

The sheriff’s office said the woman admitted to being under the influence of Subutex and Klonopin. During the investigation, deputies recovered several straws, a loaded syringe and one Klonopin pill from her purse.

The woman was arrested and transported to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center. Her name was not released by the sheriff’s office.

*Image courtesy of the Magoffin County Sheriff's Office.

MARTIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Martin County man is facing a felony charge following a reported stabbing during a fight.

Deputies responded to a report of people drinking and fighting on the night of July 11. Investigators said the victim was taken to Three Rivers Medical Center, where injuries were found to be consistent with a knife wound.

Robert Brayden Moore, of Debord, was charged with second-degree assault. That charge carries a potential sentence of five to 10 years in prison.

META, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred Tuesday morning on U.S. 119 in Pike County.

According to KSP Post 9, the crash happened around 10:39 a.m. in the Meta community.

The preliminary investigation indicates Harley Dempsey was driving a Mitsubishi Eclipse southbound in the northbound lanes of U.S. 119 when the vehicle collided with a Chevrolet Traverse driven by Stony Blackburn.

Dempsey was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police. 

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County woman who had been reported missing has been found safe.

Floyd County Sheriff John Hunt announced Tuesday that Brandi "Bam Bam" Moore has been located and will soon be returned to Floyd County.

No additional information was immediately released.

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lawrence County man was arrested last week after a grand jury indicted him on charges of engaging in organized crime and importing fentanyl.

According to court records, Tommy Church, 35, was arrested July 9 after authorities served an indictment warrant issued by Lawrence Circuit Court. He is charged with engaging in organized crime, a Class B felony, and importing fentanyl, a Class C felony. Bail was set at $50,000 cash. 

The indictment alleges Church participated in an ongoing fentanyl trafficking operation with Leslie Morgan Triplett and Billy Joe Salmons between July 26 and Sept. 30, 2025. It further alleges Church imported fentanyl into Kentucky while acting alone or in complicity with the two men. 

According to the indictment, the organized crime charge stems from allegations that Church knowingly committed or conspired to commit first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance involving fentanyl on a continuing basis as part of the alleged operation. 

An indictment is an allegation of criminal conduct, not a conviction. Church is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Funeral arrangements have been announced for former Floyd County Sheriff John K. Blackburn, who passed away at the age of 75.

The Floyd County Sheriff's Office announced Blackburn's passing Saturday evening. Blackburn was first elected sheriff in 1997 and served Floyd County from 1998 through 2014.

According to his obituary, Blackburn was born Feb. 24, 1951, in Buffalo, Kentucky. During his career, he served as a deputy sheriff before being elected Floyd County sheriff, where he served for 16 years. He also worked as a truck driver, coal miner and owner of State Security, Inc.

Blackburn was named Kentucky's Sheriff of the Year and was elected president of the Kentucky Sheriffs' Association in 2013. He was also a member of East Point Masonic Lodge No. 657, the Shriners, the Fraternal Order of Police, Fish and Wildlife, and Glory Ridge Trinity Church.

Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin. Masonic rites will be conducted at 7 p.m. by East Point Masonic Lodge No. 657.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mayo Cemetery in Prestonsburg.

The full obituary from Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home can be found here.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Gov. Andy Beshear has announced a change within his administration as longtime senior advisor Rocky Adkins has left his position.

According to the governor's office, Adkins' final day was Friday, July 10. He had served as senior advisor since 2019 after previously spending more than three decades in the Kentucky House of Representatives, where he held leadership positions for both the majority and minority caucuses.

During his time in the administration, Adkins was involved in economic development efforts, disaster response and recovery, including following the devastating 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky, as well as the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Replacing Adkins as senior advisor is Ray Perry, who has served as deputy secretary of the governor's executive cabinet since April. Before that, Perry was secretary of the Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet beginning in 2021.

No reason for Adkins' departure was announced. 

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Floyd County Sheriff's Office announced Saturday the passing of former Floyd County Sheriff John K. Blackburn.

According to the sheriff's office, Blackburn was first elected in 1997 and served as Floyd County sheriff from 1998 through 2014.

In a statement shared on social media, the sheriff's office asked the community to keep Blackburn's family in their thoughts and prayers and said funeral arrangements will be announced once they become available.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky ended the 2026 fiscal year with a budget surplus after General Fund revenues exceeded expectations, according to a report released Friday by the Office of the State Budget Director.

The report shows General Fund receipts totaled $15.98 billion during fiscal year 2026, a 1.7% increase from the previous year. State officials had projected a $156 million revenue shortfall when the official budget estimate was issued in December 2025.

Instead, General Fund revenues finished approximately $320.6 million above the enacted budget and $476.6 million higher than the December revenue estimate.

The report also found Road Fund collections totaled $1.82 billion during the fiscal year.

Among the state's largest revenue sources, individual income tax collections increased 4.6% over the previous fiscal year, while sales and use tax receipts rose 6.4%.

State Budget Director John Hicks said stronger-than-expected collections from income, sales and business taxes reflected continued growth in earnings for Kentucky workers and businesses.

The budget surplus marks the seventh consecutive year Kentucky has ended the fiscal year with General Fund revenues exceeding expectations.

Following the release of the report, the Beshear administration said the additional revenue could allow lawmakers to revisit funding for programs that were reduced in the current state budget, including Medicaid, behavioral health services and senior meal programs.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Kimper woman has been sentenced to 45 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of producing child sexual abuse material involving two toddler victims.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Pamela Denise Sargent, 45, was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell.

Federal prosecutors said the offenses occurred between late December 2023 and June 2024. Court records state Sargent created videos depicting the sexual exploitation of two toddler victims and distributed the material over the internet to an individual in Missouri.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Kentucky State Police and the Madison County Sheriff's Office. It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

The official news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office can be found here.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Paintsville man is accused of leading deputies on a high-speed motorcycle pursuit that allegedly reached speeds of about 130 mph before ending in his arrest.

According to a Johnson County Sheriff's Office arrest citation, Adam J. Warren is charged with speeding 26 mph or more over the posted limit, reckless driving, three counts of second-degree wanton endangerment involving a police officer, second-degree fleeing or evading police in a motor vehicle, resisting arrest, third-degree assault of a police officer, failure to register the transfer of a motor vehicle, operating a motorcycle without the required operator's license and failure of a non-owner operator to maintain required insurance.

The citation alleges Warren refused to stop for deputies, led officers through multiple roadways at high speeds and resisted arrest after the pursuit ended. Authorities also allege he kicked a deputy during the arrest.

The charges are allegations, and Warren is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County woman convicted of second-degree manslaughter in connection with a fatal 2022 crash was sentenced Thursday to five years in prison.

Dusty Ratliff, 48, of Elkhorn City, was sentenced by Pike Circuit Judge Howard Keith Hall after a jury convicted her of second-degree manslaughter last month.

The five-year sentence was half of the 10-year prison term recommended by the jury following Ratliff's conviction.

Ratliff was convicted in connection with a July 2022 crash on Elkhorn Creek Road that resulted in the death of James Kelly.

For previous coverage of this case, click here.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg woman was arrested Sunday night after police say she drove the wrong way on U.S. 23, nearly causing multiple head-on collisions.

According to an arrest citation, Prestonsburg Police responded to the area of U.S. 23 near Allen after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a vehicle traveling north in the southbound lanes. Dispatch advised that several callers reported the vehicle nearly struck other motorists head-on.

Police identified the driver as Anita Davis, 45, of Prestonsburg. Officers located her and another motorist stopped along Ky. 1428.

The citation states an officer smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Davis allegedly admitted she had smoked a marijuana cigarette before driving and told officers she became confused near the Alpike Motel, leading her to enter the highway in the wrong direction.

According to the citation, Davis also told officers there was additional marijuana inside the vehicle. Police reported locating marijuana and drug paraphernalia beneath the passenger seat.

Officers noted Davis was unsteady on her feet and was carrying an oxygen tank. Because of her condition, a standard field sobriety test was not performed. The citation states an eye test indicated signs of impairment.

A witness told police Davis nearly struck his vehicle head-on while he was traveling on U.S. 23. The witness told officers his wife and juvenile child were also in the vehicle at the time.

Police transported Davis to Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center, where she submitted to a blood test before being lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center.

Davis was charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, operating a motor vehicle under the influence with aggravating circumstances, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The charges are allegations, and she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County school officials signed the deed Tuesday for the future site of a new Prestonsburg High School athletic training complex before holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the project's first phase.

Before the ribbon cutting, Superintendent Tonya Williams spoke in the Prestonsburg High School Media Center, calling the milestone the result of a year-and-a-half process. Williams said part of the lengthy process involved resolving mineral rights tied to the property dating back to John C. Mayo. The property is located at 1009 North Lake Drive in Prestonsburg.

Williams said Tuesday's deed signing officially completed Phase 1 of the project, which was the purchase of the property. She said Phase 2 will focus on developing a budget for the new athletic training complex. WIth Williams during the signing was Board of Education Chair Linda Gearheart, Board Member Dr. Chandra Varia, Board Member Junior Newsome, Board Member Steve Slone, Board Attorney Jonathan Shaw, Prestonsburg High School Principal Brandon Kidd, and Century 21 real estate agent Rachel Johnson. 

According to Williams, the existing building on the property would have cost about $1 million to renovate to meet Kentucky Department of Education standards. Instead, she said the board agreed it made more sense to demolish the structure for an estimated $30,000 and invest those resources toward constructing a new facility.

Williams said the planned indoor facility is expected to serve multiple athletic programs and student activities, including soccer, football, wrestling, archery, dance and cheer. The building is planned to be heated and cooled for year-round use and could also include a walking track.

Following the remarks in the media center, school officials, community leaders and guests gathered outside at the future site of the facility for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Speakers included Superintendent Tonya Williams, Floyd County Board of Education Chair Linda Gearheart, board member Dr. Chandra Varia, Chief Circuit Judge Johnny Ray Harris and Prestonsburg High School Principal Brandon Kidd. Each thanked those who helped make the project possible and spoke about the positive impact the future facility will have on students, school athletics and the community.

With Phase 1 now complete, school officials said the district will move forward with developing a budget as planning continues for the future athletic training complex.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg man is facing multiple charges after his arrest July 5 in connection with an alleged shooting incident that investigators say occurred earlier this year.

According to a Floyd District Court complaint warrant, Julian Medina, 37, was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant stemming from an April 1 incident in Prestonsburg.

Court records allege Medina became involved in an argument with another man at Hobert's Pizza before retrieving a firearm and firing shots across Ky. 1428 toward the other individual. The complaint states the shots allegedly placed several people in substantial danger of death or serious physical injury.

Medina is charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, menacing, second-degree disorderly conduct and discharging a firearm across a public road.

The arrest citation states Medina was served with the outstanding warrant on July 5. The officer who executed the warrant noted he had no firsthand knowledge of the underlying incident.

The allegations contained in the court records are accusations. Medina is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentuckians now have a new way to see how opioid settlement dollars are being used across the Commonwealth.

Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Tuesday the launch of an online dashboard that allows the public to view opioid abatement funding received by state and local governments, along with reported spending and grant awards.

The dashboard, developed in partnership with the University of Kentucky's Rapid Actionable Data for Response (RADOR) program, compiles information submitted by local governments and the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission.

According to the dashboard, Floyd County has received approximately $2.34 million in opioid settlement funding. 

The online tool also includes information on Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission grants awarded throughout the state, including 32 grants serving Floyd County, as well as funding reports submitted by local governments.

Under Kentucky law, communities receiving opioid settlement funds must submit annual reports detailing how the money is used. The dashboard will be updated regularly as new information becomes available.

Kentucky is expected to receive nearly $1 billion through settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors. Half of those funds are administered through the Attorney General's Office and overseen by the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission.

The opioid settlement dashboard can be viewed here. 

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two people are facing felony drug charges following a Kentucky State Police investigation in Floyd County.

John Mark McKenzie, 54, of Rogersville, Tennessee, and Angel J. Miller, 42, of Prestonsburg, were each charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (methamphetamine, two grams or more) and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Troopers executed a search warrant at a residence in East Point where investigators said McKenzie had been staying. McKenzie was not at the home when the warrant was served, but investigators reported finding suspected methamphetamine and drug-related items during the search.

The investigation later led troopers to a residence on New Hope Circle near the Cliffside Apartments area, where investigators believed McKenzie was staying with Miller. Troopers stopped a vehicle occupied by the pair after they arrived at the residence.

Investigators later searched the bedroom where the two had been staying and reported finding suspected methamphetamine along with scales and plastic baggies. Arrest citations state neither McKenzie nor Miller claimed ownership of the suspected drugs.

Both were arrested and lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center. The charges are allegations, and the case remains pending in Floyd District Court.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A new workforce training program is giving Eastern Kentuckians an opportunity to prepare for careers in the growing nuclear energy industry.

Shaping Our Appalachian Region has partnered with Kentucky Community and Technical College System to launch a 16-week training program at six Ashland Community and Technical College, Big Sandy Community and Technical College, Hazard Community and Technical College, Maysville Community and Technical College, Somerset Community College, and Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College.

The program includes technical instruction, hands-on laboratory training and career readiness courses to prepare participants for nuclear outage work.

Graduates will have opportunities to meet with employers and pursue jobs with industry partners including Westinghouse, Framatome and WECTEC Staffing Services.

Organizers say the program is intended to help Eastern Kentuckians build high-paying careers while remaining in the region.

MCROBERTS, Ky. (WMDJ) — A McRoberts man is facing charges after a shooting Monday afternoon in Letcher County.

According to a Kentucky State Police news release, troopers responded to a report of a shooting on Sheas Fork in the McRoberts area shortly after 4 p.m.

When troopers arrived, they found an adult man with a single gunshot wound to the chest. The victim was treated at the scene and taken to Whitesburg ARH Hospital, where he was reported in stable condition.

State police identified the suspect as 65-year-old Hibert Tackett of McRoberts. Investigators say Tackett left the scene before law enforcement arrived but was later taken into custody without incident.

Tackett is charged with first-degree assault and tampering with physical evidence. He was lodged in the Letcher County Jail.

The investigation remains ongoing.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A large-scale Kentucky State Police drug enforcement operation across the Post 9 district has resulted in 28 arrests, dozens of criminal charges and the seizure of more than $102,000 worth of suspected illegal drugs.

According to Kentucky State Police in a news release, Operation Mountain Justice resulted in 54 criminal charges. Troopers and detectives also seized approximately 4.7 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, 130 grams of suspected fentanyl, three firearms and about $1,500 in cash.

The operation targeted suspected drug trafficking networks operating throughout the Post 9 district.

Kentucky State Police says investigations into illegal drug activity remain ongoing and encourages anyone with information to contact Post 9 at (606)-433-7711 or submit an anonymous tip through the agency's website.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — Former University of Kentucky basketball player Kerr Kriisa has been charged in a federal wire fraud case alleging he defrauded two victims out of more than $2.2 million over a period spanning from 2022 through early 2026.

A federal indictment filed in the Northern District of West Virginia alleges Kriisa carried out a years-long scheme by making false claims that his family was in danger, his mother needed cancer treatment and the family farm needed financial help. Prosecutors also allege he posed as fictional and real third parties, including a person identified as "Irene," to pressure victims into sending money.

The indictment further alleges Kriisa directed one victim to send money to another victim while falsely claiming the second person was simply helping transfer funds to him. He is also accused of falsely promising to repay one victim $100,000.

Kriisa was arrested by FBI agents July 3 and is expected to be extradited to West Virginia. He is charged with five counts of wire fraud, and prosecutors are seeking forfeiture of at least $2.2 million they allege was obtained through the scheme.

Kriisa played one season at Kentucky after transferring from West Virginia before finishing his college career at Cincinnati. He had recently been announced as a member of La Familia, Kentucky's alumni team in The Basketball Tournament, but the team later announced he will no longer participate.

The allegations remain unproven, and Kriisa is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

You can view the indictment here.

SALYERSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Salyersville woman is facing multiple felony charges after Kentucky State Police say a domestic disturbance Sunday escalated into an assault and gunfire.

According to an arrest citation, troopers responded to a home on Combs Branch Road after receiving reports of a domestic disturbance involving Macey Jo May, 25.

Investigators say the dispute began during an argument involving a child. During the incident, May allegedly assaulted her mother and another woman before threatening others who attempted to intervene.

Police allege May then pulled a handgun from her purse and fired two rounds. One of the shots reportedly came close to striking one of the victims.

Troopers recovered a handgun and a spent shell casing during the investigation. Police also said May later told investigators she could not remember what had happened after being advised of her rights.

May is charged with attempted murder, five counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, fourth-degree assault and third-degree terroristic threatening. She is being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

LOVELY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A 92-year-old Martin County man was found dead Monday after a welfare check at his Riverfront Road home during the ongoing stretch of dangerous heat across eastern Kentucky.

According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office and reporting by The Mountain Citizen, the welfare check was requested after the man's landlord had not seen him for several days.

Authorities found Fleming Hurley deceased inside the residence. Martin County Coroner Chris Todd ruled the cause of death as acute respiratory failure and complications of hyperthermia related to extreme heat. Officials said no autopsy will be performed.

The sheriff's office also found several animals inside the home. One dog was dead, while another dog, a cat and four kittens survived but were in poor condition. Deputies removed the surviving animals, provided them with food and water, and are seeking foster placement and assistance with veterinary care.

In the wake of the incident, the Martin County Sheriff's Office is urging residents to check on elderly and disabled neighbors during periods of extreme heat and other severe weather.

The sheriff's office also highlighted its COAST (Check On A Senior Today) program, which provides regular welfare calls and deputy check-ins for seniors and others who may need assistance. Anyone interested in learning more about the program can contact the Martin County Sheriff's Office at 606-298-2828.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pikeville woman was arrested Wednesday following the execution of a search warrant connected to a drug trafficking investigation.

According to an arrest citation, officers executed a search warrant at a home on Cypress Alley on July 1 after conducting a controlled purchase as part of the investigation.

During the search, investigators reported finding a handgun, digital scales, drug paraphernalia, a large amount of cash and suspected oxycodone. The citation states the evidence recovered was consistent with drug trafficking.

Misty Tackett-Kelly, 52, of Pikeville, was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

She is charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense. The charge is an allegation, and Tackett-Kelly is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Recently reviewed Floyd Circuit Court records show two individuals have been sentenced in separate drug cases.

Justin Kyle Carroll, of Cynthiana, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance involving methamphetamine, DUI and related charges. The sentence was entered June 18. Under the plea agreement, Carroll may have the remainder of his sentence probated after completing one year of jail credit and long-term substance abuse treatment.

Carroll was originally arrested in June 2025 following a traffic stop in Floyd County, where investigators reported finding suspected methamphetamine, digital scales and other items commonly associated with drug trafficking.

In a separate case, 21-year-old Hayley Newsome, of Garrett, was sentenced to two years of probation after pleading guilty to first-degree possession of a controlled substance involving fentanyl. The sentence was also entered June 18. Her original charge of aggravated trafficking in a controlled substance was amended to first-degree possession as part of a plea agreement, and she was ordered to complete drug court.

The charges stemmed from a July 2025 search warrant executed at the Garrett residence shared by Newsome and Kyle Hicks, where investigators reported finding suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

Hicks continues to face charges of aggravated trafficking in a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and being a persistent felony offender. According to court records, his next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 4.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Kentucky Public Service Commission has opened a formal investigation into the management and operation of Kentucky Power Company, ordering a full, independent audit of the utility's management and operational efficiency.

The Commission said the investigation follows concerns raised during Kentucky Power's recent rate case. In its February order concluding that case, the PSC determined an independent management audit should be conducted after finding that arguments presented by the Kentucky Attorney General's Office of Rate Intervention, along with concerns raised in previous cases, called the company's management and operation into question.

The PSC said this is not the first time it has questioned Kentucky Power's planning and decision-making. The order references several recent cases involving major investments in electric generation and transmission, including one in which the Commission said it approved the company's proposal because it viewed it as the least bad option due to concerns over the analysis supporting the project.

Kentucky Power provides electric service to approximately 161,850 customers across 20 eastern Kentucky counties, including Floyd, Johnson, Martin, Magoffin, Knott, Perry, Pike, Lawrence and Letcher counties.

A qualified, independent firm will conduct the audit, with Kentucky Power responsible for all associated costs. The Commission said the completed audit will be made public and could lead to additional investigations if further concerns are identified.

You can see the full order for the PSC here.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man died Wednesday afternoon following a single-vehicle crash on U.S. 23 in Pikeville.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers were called to the scene around 3:51 p.m. on July 1.

The preliminary investigation indicates that Paul Bisbee was driving a 1988 Dodge Ram SUV southbound when the vehicle crossed into the northbound lanes and struck a concrete bridge wall.

Bisbee was pronounced dead at the scene by the Pike County Coroner's Office.

The crash remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A second person has been arrested following a June 28 crash on U.S. 23 that left a four-month-old child injured.

According to an arrest citation, 31-year-old Melinda Hurd, of Inez, appeared lethargic when officers first spoke with her at Highlands ARH after the crash. Police said she still appeared to be under the influence when they made contact with her again later.

The citation states Hurd admitted she had recently used cocaine, including earlier that day. Police also learned she had an active indictment warrant.

Hurd was arrested and lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center on a charge of endangering the welfare of a minor.

The crash's driver, 30-year-old Charles Vanderpool of Prestonsburg, was previously arrested on charges of first-degree assault and DUI with aggravating circumstances after the crash, which sent the four-month-old child to another hospital for treatment of head injuries.

Original story of this incident can be found here.

INEZ, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Martin County woman was arrested Sunday night after Kentucky State Police investigated an assault complaint at a home on Little Rockcastle Road in the Inez community.

According to an arrest citation, troopers responded to the home around 8:49 p.m. after a woman reported she had been assaulted with a baseball bat.

The woman told troopers that Teri Lynn Sammons, 44, of Lovely, entered the home armed with a handgun and a baseball bat, pointed the handgun at her and her father, and then struck her foot with the bat, causing an injury to her toe.

Troopers reported observing a small laceration on the woman’s right toe but noted the injury did not appear consistent with being caused by a baseball bat. They also observed a scratch on her back, which the woman said occurred during a physical altercation.

Investigators said they located Sammons outside the residence and observed what appeared to be blood on her shirt. Sammons told troopers the blood was from an injury to her elbow.

Troopers searched the home and surrounding property for the reported handgun and baseball bat but said neither item was located.

According to the citation, Sammons told investigators she had been asked to come to the home to help clean and claimed the woman accused her of stealing medication. Sammons also told troopers the woman had the baseball bat and cut her own toe on a razor while intoxicated.

Following the investigation, Sammons was arrested and charged with fourth-degree assault (minor injury) and second-degree criminal trespassing. She was lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

Note: This story has been updated to include additional details from the arrest citation.