FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Unemployment fell across the Big Sandy region in August, according to preliminary labor force estimates released by the state.

The Big Sandy Area Development District recorded an unemployment rate of 6.1%, down from 7.3% in July and 6.4% in August 2025. The region had a civilian labor force of 45,588, with 42,792 people employed and 2,796 unemployed.

All five Big Sandy counties saw unemployment decline from July. Floyd County posted the region’s lowest rate at 5.5%, followed by Johnson County at 5.7%, Pike County at 6.1%, Magoffin County at 7.6% and Martin County at 8.5%.

Kentucky’s statewide unemployment rate was 4.3% in August, down from 5.2% in July. The figures are not seasonally adjusted and remain preliminary.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky officials are calling on Congress to increase federal black lung benefits, an issue affecting thousands of coal miners and families across Appalachia.

According to a news release from the Governor’s Office, Gov. Andy Beshear sent a letter Thursday to Kentucky’s congressional delegation urging support for the Support Our Minors Act.

The legislation would increase monthly black lung disability benefits to account for inflation and establish annual cost-of-living adjustments going forward. The Governor’s Office says a single miner currently receives $794 per month, compared with more than $1,200 if benefits had kept pace with inflation.

Several Eastern Kentucky communities have already passed resolutions supporting increased benefits, including Pike, Magoffin and Letcher counties, along with the cities of Hazard, Jenkins and Whitesburg.

Kentucky has more active recipients of federal black lung benefits than any other state, according to the Governor’s Office.

STAFFORDSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – Firefighters battled an overnight fire at Conley Tire on KY 40 West Thursday morning.
 

According to Oil Springs Fire and Rescue, crews were dispatched around 1:19 a.m. and arrived to find the main building fully engulfed, with a collapsed roof and downed power lines.

Low water pressure initially hampered firefighting efforts. Crews shuttled water to the scene and requested increased system pressure while multiple departments worked to contain the flames.

Firefighters battled the main building fire from outside while another crew entered the workshop building to fight fire there.

The fire was brought under control around 3 a.m. and fully extinguished by 7 a.m., allowing KY 40 to reopen.

Oil Springs received assistance from W.R. Castle, Rockhouse, Paintsville and North Magoffin firefighters. The department’s newly purchased ladder truck also responded.

The department’s statement did not provide a cause or information about injuries.

Picture courtesy of Oil Springs Fire and Rescue.

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – A Magoffin County man faces an attempted murder charge after deputies say he assaulted his ex-wife and fired a handgun during a domestic incident Monday.

According to the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office, Garland Dwayne Elsea and his ex-wife had attended court earlier that day to dismiss a protective order before returning to his Bloomington home.

Deputies say Elsea allegedly assaulted her during an argument. Their daughter and her boyfriend intervened before Elsea retrieved a handgun from a closet and fired toward his ex-wife, according to police.

The boyfriend restrained Elsea until deputies arrived. Investigators say the gun fired once and malfunctioned on a second attempt.

Elsea was charged with attempted murder, second-degree strangulation and first-degree wanton endangerment.

Officials say the handgun was separate from firearms previously seized under the protective order, which remain in the sheriff’s custody. The arrest citation did not detail injuries from the reported incident.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – Two men were arrested Monday after Paintsville police reported finding suspected drugs during a traffic stop on U.S. 23.

According to the department, an officer stopped a gold Dodge Ram traveling south around 3:47 a.m. Sept. 21 because its rear license plate was not illuminated.

Police say the officer noticed an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The passenger consented to a search, which reportedly uncovered suspected Xanax pills in his pocket.

A search of the truck turned up pills identified as oxycodone, suspected Suboxone, a substance believed to be methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Police identified the two men arrested as Robert Hall and Roger Johnson. Both denied ownership of the suspected controlled substances found inside the truck, according to the department.

The release did not list specific charges.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – The Johnson Central High School Honor Choir has been selected to perform at the 2026 White House Holiday Open House in Washington, D.C.

According to the school, the choir was chosen from more than 1,000 applications submitted by groups across the country.

Students will perform two hours of Christmas music during the holiday celebration, representing Johnson Central, Johnson County and Kentucky.

School officials credited the students’ talent, dedication and hard work, along with support from families, educators and the community.

A performance date was not included in the announcement.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pikeville man faces drug charges after Kentucky State Police say they found approximately 159 grams of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop in Prestonsburg.

Police said investigators received information indicating a 2007 Nissan Titan was transporting illegal drugs into Pike County. During the stop, troopers allegedly found the suspected methamphetamine concealed behind a plastic panel inside the vehicle.

Timothy Beavers, 43, was arrested and taken to the Floyd County Detention Center. His charges include trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a motor vehicle under the influence and additional traffic violations.

Anyone with information about suspected drug activity can contact KSP Post 9 at (606) 433-7711. Callers may remain anonymous.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – A man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he stole copper from utility lines in Johnson County.

Nathan Cox was arrested Sept. 18 following an investigation by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department into the alleged theft from Foothills Communications.

According to police, the copper was valued at more than $1,000, and its removal caused damage to utility infrastructure. Authorities say Cox admitted to the theft on video.

A warrant was issued for Cox on Sept. 18. He was arrested later that day around 6:25 p.m. along KY 201 in Sitka and served with the warrant.

Cox was charged with first-degree criminal mischief in connection with the alleged tampering with key infrastructure assets.

He was taken to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center and ordered held for Johnson District Court.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Floyd County Board of Education has approved tax rates for the 2026-2027 school year.

The district’s general fund tax levy will remain unchanged at 68.5 cents per $100 of assessed value for both real and personal property.

The board also approved a lower tax rate for motor vehicles and watercraft. That rate will be 54.9 cents per $100 of assessed value for calendar year 2027, down from 55 cents last year.

Floyd County Schools had previously announced that the board voted unanimously in September to leave its proposed general fund tax rate unchanged. The Board of Education is responsible for establishing district tax rates.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg man was arrested Sept. 20 after police said he was purchasing gift cards in exchange for sexual activity.

According to police, officers noticed a silver Chevrolet Impala near Speedway on Ky. 321 around 4:30 a.m. An employee told police the driver had been at the business for much of the night purchasing Xbox and other prepaid gift cards.

Police later stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 58-year-old Michael Compton.

Police said Compton admitted he was providing gift card numbers to other men in exchange for sexual activity. Officers also reported finding conversations on his phone discussing similar exchanges.

Compton was charged with prostitution and second-offense loitering for prostitution purposes.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky has secured nearly $17 million in federal grant funding to expand mental health and addiction services across the state.

The funding includes more than $7.3 million to improve Kentucky’s 988 crisis response system, which handles calls, texts and chats from people experiencing mental health or addiction crises.

Another $3 million will support youth behavioral health mobile crisis teams, while $2.6 million will help identify and treat young people considered at high risk for psychosis.

More than $3.2 million will support addiction and maternal mental health services for pregnant and postpartum women.

The state will also receive $600,000 for a School Crisis Response Network designed to help schools prepare for and respond to traumatic events, including disasters, violence and fatal accidents.

Kentucky’s 988 network has handled more than 305,000 calls, chats and texts since launching in 2022.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner has filed notice that prosecutors plan to introduce evidence that Michael “MK” McKinney III allegedly threatened people in the months before Amber Spradlin’s 2023 death.

A Sept. 18 filing in Pike Circuit Court describes two incidents at the McKinney residence involving McKinney allegedly brandishing a knife during gatherings following nights at the former Seasons Inn in Allen.

In one incident, prosecutors say McKinney allegedly threatened to kill those present. In another, a witness told police McKinney came downstairs with a butcher-style knife and ordered guests to leave.

Turner argues the incidents show a similar pattern of conduct to the circumstances surrounding Spradlin’s death and are relevant to McKinney’s alleged state of mind.

McKinney, 26, is accused of murdering Spradlin at the Arkansas Creek residence in Martin on June 18, 2023.

The case is scheduled for trial Jan. 11 in Pikeville.

CLAY COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Clay County man has been charged with murder after firefighters discovered a man's body while responding to a barn fire Friday night.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers were called to KY-577 around 8:30 p.m. after Clay County 911 requested assistance at the scene of the fire.

Police said first responders discovered a man in the fire debris who appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

An autopsy later identified the victim as 40-year-old Nathaniel Carter of McKee.

During the investigation, authorities located and interviewed 28-year-old Dalton Bowling of Manchester.

Bowling was arrested and charged with murder.

Kentucky State Police said the investigation remains ongoing.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) —  Two Floyd County based businesses received recognition at the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Annual Awards Night.

Appalachian Wireless was named Business of the Year, while StoneCrest Golf Course received Small Business of the Year.

StoneCrest General Manager Brad Reynolds said the 18-hole course underwent a $3 million renovation over the past couple of years, including a Toptracer driving range offering games for families and newcomers to golf. He credited the staff’s work with helping earn the recognition.

Reynolds estimated the course brings 35,000 to 40,000 people to Prestonsburg annually, supporting other local businesses.

Appalachian Wireless CEO Mike Johnson and COO Michael Huffman highlighted the company’s commitment to rural connectivity, education and economic development. The company, which has called Eastern Kentucky home for more than 35 years, thanked employees, customers and communities for their support.

The company thanked its employees, customers and communities for their support and reaffirmed its commitment to investing in Eastern Kentucky’s future.

To see the video for Appalachian Wireless from the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, you can click here.

For StoneCrest Golf Course, you can click here.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man has been sentenced to seven years in prison in connection with a 2022 hit-and-run crash that killed a pedestrian.

Christopher Salyer was sentenced on charges of reckless homicide and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.

The case stems from a crash in which police said Salyer struck Cecil Norman and left the scene without stopping to check on him. Norman later died from his injuries.

According to the original arrest citation, investigators later located the vehicle believed to have been involved in the crash at a home off East Keyser Heights.

Police said Salyer was found locked inside a bathroom at the residence and was taken into custody.

Salyer was originally charged with manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident before the case ultimately resulted in the reckless homicide conviction and seven-year prison sentence.

He's currently lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) – A judge modified Michael “M.K.” McKinney III’s bond during a pretrial hearing in the Amber Spradlin murder case.

Judge Coleman removed the $500,000 cash requirement, leaving a $1 million property bond. McKinney is charged with Spradlin’s murder.

His attorney also requested permission for McKinney to work while under GPS monitoring. Prosecutors opposed the request. The judge directed the defense to submit the proposed workplace information under seal before deciding whether to approve work release.

According to the report, the judge also said a court order would require outstanding DNA testing and peer review to be completed within 30 days, allowing the defense time to prepare.

Another pretrial hearing is scheduled for October 30 at 10 a.m. to discuss the DNA evidence.

PAINTSVILLE & PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two of Eastern Kentucky’s biggest fall festivals are getting ready to return in October, with several well-known performers scheduled to take the stage.

The Kentucky Apple Festival will be held October 1 through October 3 in downtown Paintsville.

Music will be a major part of this year’s festival, with Eastern Kentucky favorites Sundy Best performing Friday, October 2 at 9 p.m. on the Courthouse Stage. Country singer-songwriter Ingrid Andress will headline Saturday night at 9 p.m.

The Jenny Wiley Festival will follow the next week in downtown Prestonsburg, running October 7 through October 10.

Country singer Billy Dean is scheduled to perform Saturday, October 10 at 8:15 p.m. Dean is known for hits including “Somewhere in My Broken Heart,” “Billy the Kid” and “Only Here for a Little While.”

Festival organizers have also promoted an appearance by John Schneider, best known for playing Bo Duke on “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Schneider is expected to sing and take part in a meet-and-greet during the festival on Friday, October 9th.

Both festivals will also feature their traditional mix of vendors, food and community events, with additional schedule information expected as the events get closer.

For more information on dates, events, and times for the Apple Day Festival click here.

For more information on dates, events, and times for the Jenny Wiley Festival click here.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Former Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin is being released from jail early after a Kentucky Court of Appeals judge stayed his 60-day sentence.

Bevin was jailed earlier this month after being found in contempt of court in an ongoing family court case involving financial records and child support.

Bevin appealed the sentence last week and asked for his immediate release. Court of Appeals Judge Allison E. Jones granted a stay of his incarceration while the case moves forward.

The order does not overturn the underlying contempt finding or relieve Bevin of his obligation to provide documents previously ordered by the family court.

Bevin’s attorneys had argued that remaining behind bars prevented him from complying with orders to produce the financial records.

Bevin was arrested Sept. 3 in Bourbon County and had been serving his sentence at Louisville Metro Corrections.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Prosecutors are opposing a request for work release from Michael K. McKinney III, one of the men charged in connection with the murder of Amber Spradlin.

In a Pike Circuit Court filing, prosecutors argued that recent DNA testing cited by McKinney’s defense does not weaken their case.

The testing found DNA from Roy Kidd on clothing belonging to two co-defendants. Prosecutors say the finding is consistent with earlier testimony that Kidd fell and cut his chin before being helped to bed several hours before Spradlin was killed.

The filing also says DNA from Spradlin’s fingernail clippings produced a male profile consistent with McKinney family members while excluding Kidd and Josh Mullins.

Special Judge Eddy Coleman is expected to consider the request following a pretrial conference Thursday.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pikeville man is facing several charges after authorities say two officers were injured while attempting to take him into custody Monday afternoon.

According to court records, 34-year-old Cory Thomas was being transported for a court-ordered mental health evaluation when he allegedly left Mountain Comprehensive Care and attempted to get away.

Pikeville Police said Thomas struck a Pike County sheriff’s deputy multiple times in the face before fleeing on foot. The deputy followed while waiting for assistance.

Police said a Pikeville detective arrived and attempted to help take Thomas into custody. During the encounter, Thomas allegedly struck the detective in the face with a closed fist and continued resisting after officers took him to the ground.

Both officers were treated at Pikeville Medical Center and released. Thomas was also medically evaluated before being lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.

Thomas is charged with second-degree disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, third-degree fleeing or evading police, menacing, third-degree terroristic threatening and third-degree assault of a police officer.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Retired Floyd District Judge Eric D. Hall has been honored with the Judge Robert W. Heaton Award.

Hall received the award Monday, September 15, during the Kentucky District Judges College. Judges Jimmy “Blue” Marcum and Tyler Green presented Hall with the honor.

The Judge Robert W. Heaton Award is presented to an elected or retired Kentucky District Judge who has demonstrated judicial leadership and lasting friendship among colleagues.

Recipients are also recognized for service to their communities, contributions to the Commonwealth, promoting the judiciary and legal profession, and maintaining a reputation for integrity, mentorship and scholarship.

The award is named for former Nelson County District Judge Robert W. Heaton, who died in 2012 while serving as president of the Kentucky District Judges Association.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) - Former Prestonsburg Mayor Jerry Fannin was arrested Monday after police received a report of a reckless driver.

Prestonsburg Police were called shortly after 11 a.m. about a vehicle reportedly swerving on University Drive before pulling into the Food City parking lot and running onto the sidewalk.

Police found Fannin, 69, of Prestonsburg, sitting in the driver's seat of the vehicle, which was still running and appeared confused with slurred speech. Police said he handed over a health insurance card when asked to provide proof of vehicle insurance.

Fannin was charged with first-offense DUI and six registration and insurance-related offenses, including expired or missing registration, improper display of registration plates, failure to produce an insurance card and failure to maintain required insurance.

Fannin was later released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to be arraigned Oct. 16.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) - More than 130,000 Kentuckians are expected to have medical debt erased through a new statewide program.

Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order establishing the Team Kentucky Medical Debt Relief Program and directing $2.5 million to the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt.

The organization purchases medical debt from participating hospitals and collection agencies at a fraction of the amount owed. State officials say the funding is expected to eliminate about $250 million in medical debt.

There is no application process. To qualify, a Kentucky resident must have medical debt equal to at least 5% of their annual income or have an income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level, which is about $100,000 for a family of three.

The first 46,000 qualifying Kentuckians are expected to have up to $100 million in debt erased beginning this week. Notification letters are scheduled to begin arriving next week.

Recipients do not need to take any action, but are encouraged to keep the letter as proof that the debt was erased.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) – A GPS ping led investigators to a stolen copper shipment valued at $586,000 and the arrests of two California men September 11.

According to arrest citations, police found a tractor-trailer backed into a loading dock on Riverside Drive. Christopher Michael Delgado, 24, allegedly fled from a forklift and was later located hiding along the riverbank by a K-9 unit.

Haykaz Gasparyan, 43, told investigators he was picking up the shipment to transport it to California. Police say magnetic stickers concealed the truck’s actual USDOT number and shipping documents found inside were identified as fraudulent and linked to other cargo thefts.

Both men were charged with receiving stolen property valued at $10,000 or more. Delgado also faces third-degree fleeing or evading police.

JACKSON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Breathitt County man has been arrested following a Kentucky State Police investigation involving online communications with an account believed to belong to an underage girl.

KSP says the investigation began Sept. 6 after receiving a complaint about the online conversations. Investigators say the account was actually being operated by an undercover decoy.

Police say arrangements were made to meet at a business in Jackson. Troopers and Jackson Police officers were at the location and detained 45-year-old Jason White, of Lost Creek, after he arrived.

KSP says White acknowledged sending the messages during an interview with investigators.

White was arrested and charged with procuring or promoting the use of a minor by electronic means and promoting human trafficking involving a person under 18.

He was taken to the Kentucky River Regional Jail.

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man was arrested in Magoffin County after deputies say a search for him lasted more than an hour.

According to court records, Cory Patton, of Printer, was wanted in Floyd County following an alleged vehicle pursuit. A warrant accuses Patton of reaching speeds of up to 105 mph, driving recklessly and endangering a police officer during the pursuit.

Magoffin County deputies say Patton later ran on foot when they attempted to make contact with him.

Deputies reported searching mountainous terrain and areas of high grass for more than an hour before locating Patton and taking him into custody.

Patton is facing several charges including.

• Reckless Driving
• Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operator’s License
• First-Degree Fleeing or Evading Police, Motor Vehicle
• First-Degree Wanton Endangerment
• First-Degree Wanton Endangerment of a Police Officer
• Second-Degree Fleeing or Evading Police, On Foot

Patton is currently lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Wolfe County man has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for his role in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy spanning three Eastern Kentucky counties.

Clyde “Rudy” Endicott, 55, of Hazel Green, pleaded guilty in February to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. The federal indictment says the conspiracy operated from June 2023 through July 2025 in Wolfe, Breathitt and Magoffin counties.

As part of his plea, six additional drug and firearm charges were dismissed. Those charges included several alleged methamphetamine distributions in Wolfe County, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Federal court records also show $25,000 in cash was seized from Endicott on July 30, 2025, with another $2,537 seized several days later.

For the quantity involved in the conspiracy charge, Endicott faced a statutory sentencing range of 10 years to life in prison.

U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell sentenced Endicott Thursday to 132 months, or 11 years, in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He's currently being held in the Grayson Detention Center, awaiting transfer to federal prision.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A report of a gun being pointed at water district employees led to the arrest of two Pike County men early Friday morning.

Kentucky State Police were called after workers with Mountain Water District said they were confronted while working in the Dix Fork area shortly after midnight Sept. 11.

Police say 74-year-old Arthur Leedy allegedly threatened the workers with a handgun and told them to leave the area.

Troopers later located Leedy and 39-year-old George May at a residence on Brown Branch Road. Court records say both men resisted officers during the encounter before being taken into custody.

Leedy faces charges including wanton endangerment, possession of a defaced firearm and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

May is charged with obstructing governmental operations and resisting arrest.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County judge has set a $200,000 full-cash bond for a Prestonsburg woman accused of striking and seriously injuring a pedestrian earlier this year.

Julia Vanderpool, 55, was indicted in July on charges of first-degree assault and first-offense DUI following a May 30 crash on KY 1428.

Kentucky State Police testified that Vanderpool’s vehicle left the westbound side of the road before striking the pedestrian, who was cutting grass at the time.

A KSP detective testified during a bond hearing that blood testing showed Xanax and methamphetamine in Vanderpool’s system. Vanderpool had also reported taking Neurontin and Xanax.

Vanderpool was initially released from jail after posting a $25,000 bond on June 5. However, Judge Johnny Ray Harris revoked that bond on Aug. 7 and ordered her held without bond pending further court action.

Prosecutors later requested a $150,000 full-cash bond, while the defense sought $25,000. Harris ultimately set the bond at $200,000 full cash, with home incarceration and pretrial monitoring required if she is released.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — In a social media post Friday afternoon, Kentucky Power says that its seventh annual Power Up the Pantry food drive was its most successful yet, providing the equivalent of 378,000 meals to food banks serving eastern Kentucky.

The program, launched in 2019, collects donations from Kentucky Power employees and customers, along with businesses and organizations throughout the company’s service area.

Kentucky Power says its Foundation also awarded $25,000 to area food banks this year. Since 2019, the Foundation has provided $214,000. The company says those grants are funded by shareholder dollars and not customer rates.

In the same post, Kentucky Power also addressed concerns raised this week about electricity costs. The company said years of declining electric demand have left fewer customers and fewer kilowatt-hours over which to spread the cost of operating its system.

Kentucky Power says attracting new businesses and electric demand to eastern Kentucky remains part of its effort to spread those costs more broadly.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Flags will be lowered to half-staff across Kentucky and at federal facilities Friday as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

President Donald Trump proclaimed Sept. 11, 2026, as Patriot Day and directed federal departments, agencies and facilities to fly the American flag at half-staff in honor of the 2,977 people killed in the attacks. The President also encouraged governors, organizations and individuals across the country to take part in the observance.

Gov. Andy Beshear has directed flags at all Kentucky state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff Friday. Beshear is also encouraging individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the Commonwealth to participate.

Flags should remain at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Patriot Day.

HAROLD, Ky. (WMDJ) — A federal lawsuit has been filed over the 2025 fatal shooting of Henry Foster IV during a standoff outside the Dollar General in Harold.

The complaint was filed Aug. 18, 2026, exactly one year after the shooting, by Foster’s father, individually and as administrator of his estate. It names the Kentucky State Police Department and several KSP personnel as defendants and alleges excessive force under federal civil-rights law. The lawsuit seeks at least $5 million and a jury trial.

WMDJ reported at the scene in 2025 that Foster, 33, of Raven, Virginia, was armed and threatening self-harm during a roughly two-hour standoff. Authorities said efforts to de-escalate ended when a trooper fired, killing Foster.

The lawsuit alleges Foster did not point the gun at officers before he was shot and challenges the officers’ handling of the incident. Those allegations have not been proven in court.

Previous coverage can be seen here.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County woman previously indicted on federal drug trafficking charges has agreed to plead guilty in a case involving methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Gretchen L. Bevins, 46, of David, agreed to plead guilty to possession with intent to distribute at least 50 grams of a methamphetamine mixture and at least 40 grams of a fentanyl mixture. Prosecutors will move to dismiss the remaining charge at sentencing.

The newly filed plea agreement also provides additional details about the investigation. On Dec. 22, 2025, investigators used a confidential informant to purchase more than 28 grams of methamphetamine from Bevins in Pike County.

On April 1, officers searched a Pikeville hotel room occupied by Bevins. The plea agreement says they found a container bearing her name containing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and more than 40 grams of fentanyl. Bevins admitted possessing the drugs and intending to distribute them.

Previous coverage surrounding this story can be found here and here. 

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg man is facing a federal possession of child pornography charge following an FBI investigation into peer-to-peer file sharing.

According to a federal affidavit, the FBI’s Huntington Resident Agency began investigating in August after a law enforcement monitoring program identified an IP address allegedly associated with suspected child sexual abuse material. Investigators say activity involving that address was recorded repeatedly between May 23 and Sept. 1, totaling approximately 1,833 instances.

An administrative subpoena to Optimum identified Jimmy Brown as the subscriber connected to the Prestonsburg address.

Agents executed a search warrant Wednesday at Jimmy Ray Brown’s apartment. The FBI says a preliminary forensic examination of a desktop computer found suspected illegal material in download folders associated with peer-to-peer software.

The charge is an allegation and Brown is due federal court in London on Thursday. He's currently being held in the Laurel County Detention Center.

TOPMOST, Ky. (WMDJ) — Multiple fire departments are responding to a commercial structure fire at the Big S Market in Knott County.

According to the Garrett Area Volunteer Fire Department, the fire was reported early Wednesday morning along Old House Branch Road/KY 1091 in the Topmost area.

A county-wide all call was issued for Knott County fire departments, with neighboring agencies in Floyd County also providing mutual aid, including Garrett and South East fire departments.

Garrett firefighters said KY 7 and KY 1091 near the Big S Market have been shut down while departments conduct water shuttle operations.

Drivers are being asked to avoid the area because of the heavy emergency vehicle traffic.

Additional information about the fire, including the extent of the damage, has not yet been released.

DWALE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County family is receiving community support after a fire destroyed their home early Tuesday morning.

The Allen Volunteer Fire Department was called to a structure fire on Goble Reed Drive in Dwale around 2 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the home.

The house was considered a total loss, but no injuries were reported.

Allen firefighters received mutual aid from the Cow Creek Fire Department, along with assistance from a member of the Prestonsburg Fire Department. Crews returned to the home around 5:55 p.m. after the fire rekindled and extinguished remaining hot spots.

The family has been referred to the American Red Cross and is also seeking clothing donations.

Needed sizes include women’s medium clothing and size 7.5 shoes, men’s XL shirts and 36x32 pants, 18–24 month girls’ clothing, and 3T/4T clothing for twin boys.

Those interested in helping can contact the Allen Volunteer Fire Department or someone assisting the family.

*Image courtesy of Allen Volunteer Fire Department.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Louisville Metro Corrections is investigating allegations that former Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin received special treatment while serving time at the Louisville jail.

Daniel Johnson, president of the Fraternal Order of Police lodge representing Metro Corrections officers, said correctional officers raised concerns about Bevin’s treatment while in custody.

Johnson alleges Bevin was given a Texas Roadhouse meal and had access to a cellphone and vape while incarcerated.

He also said the jail’s security cameras went offline for approximately six minutes Sunday night. Johnson said a corrections lieutenant was seen entering the area where Bevin was being held with a restaurant bag around the time of the outage.

Metro Corrections has launched an internal investigation into the allegations.

Bevin was ordered Friday to serve a 60-day sentence after being found in contempt of court in an ongoing family court case.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A public listening session focused on Medicaid will be held next week in Prestonsburg.

“Medicaid Reality Check: A Health Care Listening Tour” will stop at Gearheart Auditorium on the campus of Big Sandy Community and Technical College on Thursday, Sept. 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The event will give Medicaid recipients, family members, caregivers, health care providers and others an opportunity to share their experiences with lawmakers as changes to the program approach.

The session will include a brief overview of Medicaid and upcoming changes, followed by public comments and a question-and-answer period. Those who are unable to speak during the event will have an opportunity to submit comments in writing.

The event is free and open to the public.

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lawrence County man is facing charges after police say a stolen vehicle led to a high-speed pursuit into Boyd County.

Justin Fitzpatrick, 39, of Louisa, was arrested Thursday night after a 2006 Pontiac G6 was reported stolen from the Louisa Food City parking lot.

According to court documents, surveillance video showed someone enter the unlocked vehicle, which had keys inside, and drive away.

Kentucky State Police later spotted the vehicle on U.S. 23 in Catlettsburg, where police say it was traveling about 100 mph in a 55 mph zone.

The driver, identified as James Stone, and Fitzpatrick, who was a passenger, were taken into custody.

Investigators say Stone alleged Fitzpatrick encouraged him to steal a vehicle before the Pontiac was taken.

Fitzpatrick is charged with complicity to theft by unlawful taking in Lawrence County and complicity to receiving stolen property in Boyd County.

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

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — More than 300,000 deceased voters have been removed from Kentucky’s voter rolls since Secretary of State Michael Adams took office in 2020.

Adams’ office announced Friday that 318,918 deceased voters have been removed during that period, while total voter-registration removals since January 2020 have reached 753,181.

During August, 3,664 registrations were removed, including 3,233 deceased voters, 258 people who moved out of state, 74 duplicate registrations and 65 people adjudged mentally incompetent. The removals also included 18 voluntary cancellations, nine people identified as non-citizens and seven felony convictions.

Despite the removals, statewide voter registration increased during August. The Secretary of State’s Office reported 8,266 new registrations, producing a net gain of 4,602 voters.

Republicans currently account for 48% of Kentucky’s registered voters, Democrats 41% and other affiliations approximately 11%.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Prestonsburg and Paintsville are among Kentucky communities receiving funding for pedestrian and transportation improvements.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced Thursday that Prestonsburg was awarded $976,000 to construct a pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting the Passage Rail Trail with the Middle Creek National Battlefield.

The project will create a safer link between Prestonsburg, the battlefield and the community of David while closing a gap in the existing trail network.

Gov. Beshear also announced Paintsville was awarded $235,132 for the Court Street Public Safety Sidewalk project.

The money comes through the federal Transportation Alternatives Program, which supports bicycle and pedestrian pathways, accessibility improvements and other transportation safety projects.

The two Eastern Kentucky projects were included in more than $18.8 million awarded for 18 projects across the state.

SCUDDY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County man is facing 20 felony charges following an investigation by the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch.

Brandon Scott Sumner, 32, was arrested Thursday after investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in Scuddy.

KSP says the investigation began after authorities discovered Sumner was allegedly uploading illegal material involving minors online. Electronic equipment was seized during the search and sent to the KSP Forensic Laboratory for examination.

Sumner is charged with 20 counts related to possessing illegal material involving a child under the age of 12. The charges are Class C felonies.

He was lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail. The investigation remains ongoing.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that Appalachian Regional Healthcare and Pikeville Medical Center are among 10 Kentucky hospitals receiving funding through an additional $18 million in FEMA disaster reimbursements.

The funding covers expenses hospitals incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other recipients include AdventHealth Manchester, Baptist Health, Flaget Memorial Hospital, Norton Hospital, Saint Joseph Hospital, T.J. Samson Community Hospital, the University of Kentucky and UofL Health.

Individual amounts for the latest round were not announced.

The new funding follows more than $105 million in FEMA reimbursements announced in May for six hospitals and Kentucky Emergency Management.

During that round, ARH received nearly $22.95 million, while Pikeville Medical Center received approximately $1.45 million.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in federal prison for his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.

Franklin Delano Campbell, 67, was sentenced Wednesday to 236 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute powder cocaine and crack cocaine.

Federal prosecutors say Campbell regularly obtained half-kilogram to one-kilogram quantities of cocaine from an out-of-state supplier between January 2022 and November 2025. Investigators said he converted much of the cocaine into crack and distributed the drugs throughout the Perry County area, with many sales taking place from his home in Bonnyman.

Authorities said Campbell also paid others with drugs or money to travel to Ohio to pick up cocaine and return it to Kentucky.

As part of his plea agreement, Campbell forfeited several properties, two vehicles, multiple firearms and approximately $119,684 in cash.

Campbell must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence and will face five years of supervised release afterward.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two Prestonsburg parents have been charged following an investigation that resulted in three children being placed in protective custody.

According to citations filed by Prestonsburg Police, Robert L. Adams and Cassandra M. Adams were each charged with second-degree wanton endangerment following an investigation Tuesday at a home on East Harris Street.

Police said the investigation began after an 8-year-old student at Prestonsburg Elementary was found with injuries the child reportedly said were caused by a dog. Social Services was contacted, and an officer accompanied a social worker to the residence.

The citations allege officers found unsanitary and unsafe living conditions inside the home. Police said three children, ages 15, 8 and 3, were living at the residence and were placed in protective custody.

Both parents were arrested. A court trial for both parents is set for Novemeber 10 in Floyd County District Court.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Drivers in parts of Floyd and Lawrence counties should prepare for temporary bridge closures next week as Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews conduct routine inspections.

In Floyd County, KY 2557 in the Justell community near the junction of U.S. 23 will be closed Thursday, Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

In Lawrence County, KY 644 in the Walbridge area at mile point 1.5 will be closed Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Emergency vehicles will be accommodated as needed during both closures.

KYTC District 12 says the bridges could reopen before 2 p.m. if inspections are completed early. Motorists who regularly use the routes should plan for alternate routes and watch for signs and traffic control.

The schedules are subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man has pleaded guilty to federal drug and firearm charges stemming from a case that also resulted in charges against a co-defendant.

Wayne Buzard, 57, appeared in federal court Monday and pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Court records show prosecutors plan to dismiss a conspiracy charge against Buzard at sentencing. A presentence report has been ordered, and his sentencing date will be set separately.

Buzard’s co-defendant, Cathy McKinney, 54, also recently entered a guilty plea, pleading guilty to one count of distributing methamphetamine in exchange for the remaining charges against her being dismissed.

Buzard and McKinney were indicted by a federal grand jury in April following their arrests in March.

WHITESBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Attorneys for former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines have appealed a judge’s decision to hold him without bond while he awaits trial in the death of District Judge Kevin Mullins.

In a brief filed Aug. 31 with the Kentucky Court of Appeals, Stines’ attorneys argue Special Judge Christopher Cohron did not make sufficient findings to show the Commonwealth met the constitutional standard required to deny bail in a capital case.

The defense also argues the trial court improperly relied on video showing the shooting, claiming prosecutors did not call a witness to authenticate the recording or establish a proper foundation before it was admitted.

Stines’ attorneys further argue the court failed to make findings concerning his Pretrial Services Report or possible conditions of release.

The defense is asking the Court of Appeals to reverse the Aug. 11 order denying bond. Stines is charged with aggravated murder. The appeal remains pending.

MARTIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — Three men have been federally indicted in connection with an alleged assault at the United States Penitentiary Big Sandy in Martin County.

A federal grand jury charged Gilbert Saldana, Edward Rogriguez and Alfred Fabrow with assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm. The indictment was filed Aug. 27 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

Prosecutors allege the assault occurred July 6 within the boundaries of USP Big Sandy. According to the indictment, the three men allegedly assaulted a person identified only by the initials R.G.G. using a homemade stabbing instrument.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. A $100 special assessment and restitution, if applicable, could also be imposed.

An indictment is an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County 4-H members brought home numerous honors from the Kentucky State Fair, including five Class Champion awards.

Class Champions are selected from among the blue-ribbon winners, recognizing the top entry in a particular class.

Floyd County’s Class Champions included Sophia Stumbo of Betsy Layne Elementary in foods; Jay Watkins of Betsy Layne Elementary in woodworking; Brooklynn Coleman of John M. Stumbo Elementary in art; Maddox Holbrook of Prestonsburg Elementary in woodworking; and Kyndell Miller of Prestonsburg Elementary in art.

Students from nine Floyd County schools earned blue, red and white ribbons in categories ranging from photography, foods and woodworking to art, sewing, crochet, geology and electricity.

Blue ribbons represent the highest ribbon level, while red ribbons recognize second-place entries and white ribbons recognize third place.

Floyd County Schools congratulated the students on their achievements at this year’s state fair.

The full list issued by Floyd County Schools can be seen below.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police Post 9 has released its list of approved traffic safety checkpoint locations in Floyd County and surrounding counties.

KSP says checkpoints may be conducted periodically as part of efforts to improve roadway safety and discourage violations of Kentucky traffic laws.

Troopers may check for impaired driving, valid driver's licenses, vehicle registration and insurance, as well as equipment violations. Other violations or public safety issues encountered during a checkpoint may also be addressed.

Approved checkpoint locations in Floyd County include:

• Ky. 3 at Ky. 302 in Auxier
• Ky. 114 at the Magoffin-Floyd County line
• Ky. 194 in front of Cow Creek Fire Department Station 2
• Ky. 194 at Ky. 3385 in Endicott
• Ky. 301 on Watergap Road near Mountain Pipeline
• Ky. 301 at Ky. 1428 at the Lancer intersection
• Ky. 302 at Ky. 3507 in Auxier
• Ky. 302/Lake Road at Theatre Court
• Ky. 321 at Ky. 3 in Auxier, near Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center
• Ky. 404 at Ky. 850 in David, north of the David Fire Department
• Ky. 1427 at Ky. 1750 in Bonanza
• Ky. 1428 on the Almar straight, approximately three miles from U.S. 23
• Ky. 1428 in Martin, off the Ky. 80 ramp below the fire department
• Ky. 80 at Watergap, in front of Kinzer Drilling
• Ky. 7 at Ky. 1086 in Wayland
• Ky. 7 at Martin Branch in Lackey
• Ky. 7 under the Ky. 80 overpass in Garrett
• Ky. 7 at Ky. 2029 in Salt Lick
• Ky. 7 at the Floyd-Knott County line near the railroad tracks and Lick Skillet Branch
• Ky. 122 at Ky. 466 at the Melvin intersection
• Ky. 122 at Ky. 979 in front of the Hi Hat Post Office
• Ky. 122 at Ky. 680 at the Minnie intersection
• Ky. 122 in front of Martin Engineering
• Ky. 122 in front of the former Wheelwright Mining location at Price
• Ky. 306 in front of the Wheelwright swimming pool
• Ky. 466 at the mouth of Caleb Fork in Weeksbury
• Ky. 680 at Ky. 1929 on Frasures Creek, above the Left Beaver Fire Department
• Ky. 680 in East McDowell, in front of the McDowell Car Wash
• Ky. 777 in front of the Garrett Fire Department
• Ky. 777 in front of the Maytown Fire Department
• Ky. 1210 in front of May Valley Elementary School in Martin
• Ky. 1498 in front of Little Rock Baptist Church in Bevinsville
• Ky. 680 across the railroad tracks in front of the clinic in Harold
• Ky. 680 at Ky. 1426 in Harold, near Dollar General
• Ky. 979 in front of John M. Stumbo Elementary School
• Ky. 979 at Ky. 3680 in Grethel
• Ky. 979 on the straight near Toddra's Market in Teaberry
• Ky. 1426 in front of Emmitt Lawson Apartments in Harold
• Ky. 1426 on Prater Creek near the mouth of Rice Branch
• Ky. 1426 in front of Prater Elementary School
• Ky. 1426 on Allen-Banner Road across the bridge near the railroad tracks at Banner
• Ky. 1426 in front of the former Boyd's Carryout
• Ky. 1428 in front of May Metal at Emma
• Ky. 1428 in front of Allen Elementary School
• Ky. 3379, approximately 4.6 miles south of Ky. 979 near Little Rachel Church
• Mare Creek in front of Brandis Equipment Company
• Ky. 979 at Ky. 680 in Grethel

Post 9 also serves Pike, Martin, Magoffin and Johnson counties. Checkpoint locations for those counties are available through the Kentucky State Police Post 9 website here.