JUNE 2, 2106 

 24 arrested in Lawrence County during past nine days

For the month of May 2016; 386 arrested individuals were brought into the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville, Kentucky. Out of the 386 arrested individuals brought to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in May, 70 of those arrests were from Lawrence County.

From 12:01 A.M. May 23, 2014 to 11:59 P.M. May 31, 2016; 118 arrested individuals were brought into the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville, Kentucky. Out of the 118 arrested individuals brought to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in that 9 day period, 24 arrests were from Lawrence County. Those 24 individuals arrested are the following:

Ernest R.. Daniels, 29, of Catlettsburg, Kentucky; was arrested on May 23, 2016 at 11:49 A.M., by deputy Charlie Curnette of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • SERVING BENCH WARRANT FOR COURT; where upon he was sentence by the court to serve a 30 day jail sentence.

Kevin Muncy, 30, of Fort Gay, West Virginia; was arrested May 23, 2016 at 2:57 P.M., by sergeant Ed Cordle of the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELTS • OPERATING ON SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OPERATORS LICENSE.

Danny T. Sesco, 48, of Wellston, Ohio; was arrested on May 24, 2016 at 11:49 A.M., by deputy Charlie Curnette of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • SERVING THREE BENCH WARRANTS FOR COURT; where after Danny T. Sesco was booked at Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville, he was picked up for the three warrants out of Pike County, Kentucky (2 warrants for non-payment of fines, the third for failure to appear) at 5:41 P.M. by deputy Finas King of the Pike County Sheriff Department, where after he was lodged in the Pike County Detention Center, where he remains without bond until he appears at a later date before a judge.

Gary H, Mills, 48, of Auxier, Kentucky; was arrested on May 24, 2016 at 2:39 P.M., by chief deputy Mark Wheeler of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • UNLAWFUL IMPRISONMENT - 2ND DEGREE.

James R. Parsons, 47, of Fort Gay, West Virginia; was arrested May 24, 2016 at 7:37 P.M., by sergeant Ed Cordle of the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELTS • OPERATING ON SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OPERATORS LICENSE, • FAILURE OF OWNER TO MAINTAIN REQUIRED INSURANCE/SECURITY, 1ST OFFENSE, • SERVING BENCH WARRANT FOR COURT, • SERVING WARRANT (FOR OTHER POLICE AGENCY).
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Jason L. Short, 36, of Louisa, was arrested on May 24, 2016 at 8:04 P.M., by deputy Mason Keefer of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • MANUFACTURING METHAMPHETAMINE 1ST DEGREE, • PERSISTENT FELONY OFFENDER II, • WANTON ENDANGERMENT-1ST DEGREE-POLICE OFFICER, • FLEEING OR EVADING POLICE, 1ST DEGREE (MOTOR VEHICLE), • PERSISTENT FELONY OFFENDER I, • FLEEING OR EVADING POLICE, 1ST DEGREE (MOTOR VEHICLE), • WANTON ENDANGERMENT-1ST DEGREE, • PERSISTENT FELONY OFFENDER II.

Dustin A. Williams, 28, of Louisa, was arrested on May 24, 2016 at 11:24 P.M., by deputy Mason Keefer of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • ASSAULT, 4TH DEGREE (DOMESTIC VIOLENCE) NO VISIBLE INJURY.

Arthur Albin Holbrook III, 29, of Louisa, turned himself in May 25, 2016 at 3:12 P.M., to the Lawrence County Sheriff Department to serve a jail sentence with: CONTEMPT OF COURT LIBEL/SLANDER RESISTANCE TO ORDER.

Norma Jean Mills, 46, of Inez, Kentucky; was arrested on May 25, 2016 at 8:35 P.M., by chief deputy Mark Wheeler of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • TRAFFICKING IN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, 1ST DEGREE, 1ST OFFENSE - (< 10 D.U. OPIATES).

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Brandi L. Mills, 32, of Louisa, was arrested on May 26, 2016 at 7:45 P.M., by Lawrence County constable Paul Wells, and was charged with: • NO REGISTRATION PLATES, • FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELTS, • FAILURE OF OWNER TO MAINTAIN REQUIRED INSURANCE/SECURITY, 2ND OFFENSE, • OPERATING ON SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OPERATORS LICENSE.

Ian K. Vanhorn, 28, of Louisa, was arrested on May 26, 2016 at 7:45 P.M., by deputy Mason Keefer of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • NO REGISTRATION PLATES, • FAILURE OF OWNER TO MAINTAIN REQUIRED INSURANCE/SECURITY, 2ND OFFENSE, • OPERATING ON SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OPERATORS LICENSE, • OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER/INFLUENCE ALCOHOL/ DRUGS/ETC. .08 (AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCE), 2ND OFFENSE.

Regan L. Young, 42, of Louisa, turned himself in May 27, 2016 at 11:53 A.M., to the Lawrence County Sheriff Department to serve a jail sentence with: CONTEMPT OF COURT LIBEL/SLANDER RESISTANCE TO ORDER.

Jeremy P. Smith, 36, of Louisa, turned himself in May 27, 2016 at 12:18 P.M., to the Lawrence County Sheriff Department to serve a jail sentence with: CONTEMPT OF COURT LIBEL/SLANDER RESISTANCE TO ORDER.

Arkale B. Mollette, 43, of Tomahawk, Kentucky; was arrested on May 27, 2016 at 7:54 P.M., by a deputy of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • PRESCRIPTION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NOT PROPER CONTAINER 1ST OFFENSE, • GIVING OFFICER FALSE NAME OR ADDRESS, • PUBLIC INTOXICATION-CONTROLLED SUB (EXCLUDES ALCOHOL), • POSSESSION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, 2ND DEGREE - DRUG UNSPECIFIED.

Gregory R. Mitchell, 30, of Louisa, was arrested May 27, 2016 at 9:35 P.M., by patrolman officer Hunter James of the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • SERVING TWO WARRANTS (FOR OTHER POLICE AGENCY)

Joel D. Stevens, 58, of Louisa, was arrested on May 27, 2016 at 9:35 P.M., by a deputy of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • DRIVING ON DUI SUSPENDED LICENSE -1ST OFFENSE, • NO TAIL LAMPS.

Gary W. Einfeldt, 47, of Fort Gay, West Virginia; was arrested on May 27, 2016 at 9:35 P.M., by an officer with the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • CARRYING A CONCEALED WEAPON

Bringham A. Vanhorn, 51, of Louisa, was arrested on May 28, 2016 at 6:34 P.M., by officer Jordan Miller of the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER/INFLUENCE ALCOHOL/DRUGS/ETC. .08 - 1ST OFFENSE

John Sword, 40, of Louisa, was arrested on May 29, 2016 at 12:14 A.M., by Lawrence County constable Paul Wells, and was charged with: • OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER/INFLUENCE ALCOHOL/DRUGS/ETC. .08 - 1ST OFFENSE, • OPERATING ATV ON ROADWAY, • OPERATING ON SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OPERATORS LICENSE.

Nicole L. Maynard, 37, of Louisa, was arrested on May 29, 2016 at 2:31 P.M., by chief deputy Mark Wheeler of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • CRIMINAL TRESPASSING-2ND DEGREE, • FLEEING OR EVADING POLICE, 2ND DEGREE (ON FOOT).

Danny Johnson, 24, of Kermit, West Virginia; was arrested on May 30, 2016 at 8:02 P.M., by an officer with the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • SERVING WARRANT (FOR OTHER POLICE AGENCY).

Joseph Porter, 30, of Genoa, West Virginia; was arrested on May 31, 2016 at 7:17 P.M., by an officer with the Louisa Police Department, and was charged with: • SERVING BENCH WARRANT FOR COURT

Randall V. Thompson, 52, of Huntington, West Virginia; was arrested on May 31, 2016 at 7:27 P.M., by deputy Mason Keefer of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY UNDER/$10,000.

Kimberly Maynard, 18, of Louisa, was arrested on May 31, 2016 at 9:55 P.M., by Sheriff Garrett Roberts of the Lawrence County Sheriff Department, and was charged with: • NO REGISTRATION RECEIPT, • FAILURE TO PRODUCE INSURANCE CARD, • FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELTS, • OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER/INFLUENCE ALCOHOL/DRUGS/ETC. .08 - 1ST OFFENSE• SPEEDING 26 MPH OR > SPEED LIMIT, • FAILURE TO PRODUCE INSURANCE CARD, • NO OPERATORS-MOPED LICENSE, • FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELTS.

June 2, 2016

Construction work should fix the slippage problem to well traveled road

TORCHLIGHT, Ky. -- For some time now, residents that reside or use Torchlight road have made complaints about the condition of their road. There is no exact number of how many people who live along the road, just off Rt. 23 up the hill where Hylton Taxidermy was once located, but it is safe to say dozens at least.

Daisy Vanhoose, an elderly lady who lives in the last house at the end of the road for one is mighty glad county workers finally got the road fixed.

"This is the only way in or out of this place and it keeps slipping off over the hill every time they bring gravel," Ms. Vanhoose said. "This is what it needed all the time and we're really thankful it is done and we can feel safer."

She said she has to go to doctor's appointments at least once per month and the person who drives her told her last week that the road would not be passable too much longer, she said.

After two recent attempts in placing gravel in the slip, County workers feel as if it is finally finished with the work the construction company has done today. 

E & E Construction, Inc. out of Prestonsburg has worked on the road at Torchlight all day, and company officials decided that the solution was to knock down part of the cliff on the opposite side of the 6 foot slip and widen the road, also filling in the large slip.

Lawrence Fiscal Court had approved funding for the job months ago but the work  has been delayed by rainy weather.

An attempt was made to speak with County Road Foreman Michael Compton, but he had just left the job site and wasn't in the office.

Judge/Executive John Osborne said he is glad the road finally got fixed. "This has been approved for quite a while and I'm glad they finally got it done," Osborne said. "There's a lot of people who use this road every day."

JUNE 3, 2016

Negligent training claimed in wrongful death lawsuit

LOUISA, Ky. -- A lawsuit that has been anticipated by many in Lawrence County was filed May 20 in Lawrence Circuit Court over the taser death of Billy Collins, Jr. last year.

The Estate of Billy Collins, Jr. (Son of Billy Joseph Collins) filed a lawsuit against LPD officer Steve Wilburn, The Louisa Police Department, The Lawrence County Sheriff's Dept. and The City of Louisa.

According to a lawsuit filed on May 20th, 2016, against the following people and agencies for “ALLEGEDLY CAUSING THE DEATH OF BILLY JOSEPH COLLINS, officer Stephen Wilburn, officer Jordan Miller, Chief Greg Fugitt, Sheriff Garrett Roberts, deputy Mason Keefer, deputy Mack Wilhite, The Louisa Police Dept., The City of Louisa, and The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office were all named in the complaint.

The lawsuit says Steven Wilburn on or about May 29th was acting both individually and/or in his capacity as agent/ servant or employee of the Louisa Police Department and/or the city of Louisa Kentucky. He is individually liable and the Louisa City Police (hereinafter police department) are vicariously liable for the death of Billy Collins.

Billy J. Collins 56, of Louisa was arrested and charged with Driving on a Suspended Kentucky Operator's License, Failure to Maintain Insurance and Disorderly Conduct on graduation night 2015 at LCHS. Collins was then transported to the Louisa Police Department where he reportedly refused to comply with the officer’s commands.

Sergeant Wilburn called for assistance when he (Mr. Collins) became combative striking Wilburn multiple times. Collins fled into the foyer area in the police department and barricaded himself inside the facility.

Additional officers with the Louisa police department and the Lawrence County Sheriff's Department responded to the scene to assist. It was there that Collins, after failing to comply with commands was tasered several times in the altercation. Officers requested EMS to respond to the police department but prior to their arrival Collins begin exhibiting signs of a medical emergency. Netcare EMS provided medical assistance and transported Collins to Three Rivers Medical Center where he later died.

Billy Collins, Jr. the natural son and administrator of the estate of Billy Joseph Collins,  filed suit complaining that Steven Wilburn of the Louisa City Police is individually liable for the death of his father. His lawsuit claims that Greg Fugitt is also liable for the negligent training and supervision of Wilburn and other police officer defendant Jordan Miller.  Sheriff Garrett Roberts is named in the lawsuit as he is the elected Sheriff of Lawrence County and responsible for his employees deputiesKeefer & Officer Wilhite and their negligent training and supervision or monitoring.

Both Roberts and Fugitt have a duty to maintain the current necessary prescribed training in regard to use of all types of force, including but not limited to the use of taser electrical conductive weapons, the lawsuit says. Fugitt allegedly breached his duty in this regard and that breach of duty was a proximate cause of the death of Billy Collins. The defendants are all jointly and severally liable as they were at all times acting together in complicity with each other without probable cause to the United States Constitution in both beating and negligent use of an electrical conductive weapon. (Tasing) 

Allegedly while in the custody of the Louisa City Police Department and those other named defendants,  Louisa City Police Officers and Lawrence County Sheriff's Office deputies use of force against decedent was willful, negligence grossly negligent, excessive and caused his death. The city of Louisa is vicariously liable under the doctrine of superior for the acts of Chief you get and all of the other defendants were acting under color of law pursuant to KRS - 344. The city of Louisa is liable for their negligent training and supervision are there police officers and employees. 

The plaintiff,  Billy Joseph Collins as administrator of the estate of Billy Collins Jr. Demands a judgment against the defendants jointly and severely in an amount for which the proof will show tentative damages and for attorney's fees and for a trial by jury. The Collins estate is represented by Michael Curtis of Ashland, Ky.

A Kentucky State Police investigation into the incident resulted in no indictments when taken before a Lawrence Co. grand jury six months after the incident because of lack of evidence. The KSP did not have autopsy results at the time the grand jury heard the evidence which included a video taken with a body camera by the police. The KSP refused to allow The Lazer to view the evidence including the video because, they said, "the autopsy is still not complete and the case is open".

The amount of insurance carried by the city and the county is not known. City Attorney Eldred "Bud" Adams and county attorney Mike Hogan were not available for comment tonight.

LEVISA LAZER EXCLUSIVE: VIDEO OF POLICE ALTERCATION INCIDENT AT LOUISA POLICE DEPARTMENT IN CITY HALL THAT LED TO THE DEATH BILLY COLLINS.

CENSORED!

THIS VIDEO CONTAINS LANGUAGE AND VIOLENCE NOT SUITABLE FOR UNDER AGE CHILDREN

 Click picture for seven minute body cam video.

AUTOPSY SAYS COLLINS SUFFERED MASSIVE BODILY INJURIES BUT WAS NEVER SHOWN TO LAWRENCE COUNTY GRAND JURY IN NOVEMBER 2015.

LAWRENCE COUNTY CORONER SAYS ANNA MELVIN'S OFFICE NEVER CONTACTED HIM FOR ANY DOCUMENTS HE HAD ON THE CASE; CALLS GRAND JURY PROCESS ON COLLINS CASE A "RUSH JOB" 

SINCE JANUARY 1, 2015 TO JUNE 7, 2016:

* 1,582 AMERICAN CITIZENS HAVE DIED AT THE HANDS OF U.S. LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.
* 51 AMERICAN CITIZENS HAVE DIED IN OVERSEAS IN TERRORIST ATTACKS.
* 68 AMERICAN POLICE OFFICERS HAVE BEEN MURDERED IN THE LINE OF DUTY (OUT OF 171 TOTAL LINE OF DUTY DEATHS).
* 39 AMERICAN POLICE DOGS HAVE BEEN KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY.

JUNE 7, 2016 - written by WADE QUEEN

A lawsuit that was filed May 20 in Lawrence Circuit Court over the beating and taser death of Billy Collins last year by the Estate of Billy Collins Jr. (Son of Billy Collins) against Louisa officer Steve Wilburn, The Louisa Police Department, The Lawrence County Sheriff's Dept. and The City of Louisa; has led to exclusive access via the Collins family and their legal representation to the body camera video of the entire incident at the Louisa Police station as well as the state coroner's report that shows his death as a homicide, a report that was never revealed by the Kentucky State Police nor Commonwealth Attorney Anna Melvin's office to the Lawrence County Grand Jury this past November 2015.

The merit information on the lawsuit and other details regarding the Collins death case can be read HERE.

The body camera video of the police altercation shows that Billy Collins was severely beaten by four police officers involved (Louisa police officers Stephen Wilburn and Jordan Miller, and Lawrence County deputies Mason Keefer and Mack Wilhite), with their police batons, as well as being punched with their hands. Collins was struck numerous times with a police baton stick by deputy Mason Keefer himself.

In addition, Billy Collins was struck with tasers by the officers five to as many as seven times, and possibly more, with just before one of the taser shots Collins raising his hands in surrender. Throughout the entire video, there was no evidence that Billy Collins struck or tried to strike any of the four police officers involved. The video shows that Collins was just hanging on to whatever he could find in the police station and would not let loose. 

During all this episode on the video, all of the officers can be heard yelling extensive amount of obscenities and profanities at Billy Collins. Collins also cursed at the officers

Coincidentally, there was no video made of Billy Collins actual arrest at the Lawrence County high school area by officer Steven Wilburn, with eyewitnesses stating that Wilburn never placed handcuffs on Collins when he arrested him and then placed him in his police cruiser to be taken to the Louisa Police Station.

In addition to the police video, the Levisa Lazer also got access to a copy of the Kentucky State Medical Examiners's autopsy report on Billy Collins. It lists the cause of death of Collins as a 'homicide'. It further states the death by homicide was caused by "altercation with police". The death certificated also lists Billy Collins heart problems.

In the medical examiner's report, there is a compiled list of the injuries on Billy Collins body and they are listed as numerous lacerations, bruises, a cut down eyebrow, five or six broken ribs, abrasions, five places with electrical barb contusions, and multiple abdominal adhesions and injuries to his thigh and arm bones and to his head in the back and front.

In regards of the state coroners medical report on Billy Collins, the Levisa Lazer contacted Lawrence County Coroner Mike Wilson who also listed the death as a homicide on the official death certificate.

Wilson further stated Commonwealth's Attorney Anna Melvin never sought any information from him or his coroner's office. Wilson added, "I still have never been contacted by Anna Melvin's office regarding any documents that I have on this case."

"If they hadn’t pushed it through the grand jury without all the facts it would have been a lot different," Wilson said.

LOUISA -- "I want to thank everyone that participated in getting the newly renovated basketballcourt done," Louisa mayor harold Slone said. "We got a grant to pay for most of the cost. But as part of the deal we had to engage the community ... and put in some sweat equity ourselves. Well we have done that... Matt Brown has partnered with me to start Louisa Hoops For Hope..."

"His RiseAbove crew volunteered to put up the goals... and the City Employee's went above and beyond to do this work," Slone added. "While these guys were doing this, others had to cover their positions so they could.. The city crews became a team and look what they accomplished... hats off to all that helped...A special thanks to City Council for supporting this project grant... without everyone it couldn't have been possible..."

The city park has been dramatically improved under Slone's leadership including renovation of the 50 year old seimming pool and new playground equipment.

County Economic Development Ccodinator Catrina Vargo said this is the type of thing that will help Louisa bring in prospective companies to the county.

"By having more activities for families we can more easily asttract small business that are looking for a place," Vargo said.

Multi County development group meets in Louisa

Louisa, KY -- Representatives from several local businesses were present at a grant workshop that was held last week at Sullivan University Center for Learning in downtown Louisa, KY.

The workshop was for the federal POWER Initiative Grant and focused primarily on e-commerce. This particular segment of the grant is funneled through the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP), and is geared toward any business that is interested in getting into new markets, expanding, or who may be struggling.

The goal is to explore diversification by assessing existing businesses in the area and match them up with other companies, suppliers, customers, etc., to perhaps venture into different markets. By filling out the grant form, a business allows a consulting firm to assess their company, research, analyze, and determine if training is needed, and if there is a match, agrees to be linked to an e-commerce website.

Scott Broughton, Director of Kentucky Advantage Alliance, explained how the program worked, saying "We help find the missing link in the puzzle."

Director of EKCEP, Ian Mooers, said the program emphasizes training which could be free to the company if they qualify.

The workshop was hosted by the Lawrence County Economic Development Dept. for the counties of Lawrence, Carter, Elliot, Morgan, Johnson, Martin, Magoffin, and Menifee Counties.

"There is no cost to the business for this service" said Economic Development Coordinator, Catrina Vargo. "It is an excellent opportunity."

The workshop was sponsored by Three Rivers Medical Center who provided lunch, and Sullivan University Center for Learning-Louisa, who provided the space.

Vargo said the grant is on a first come first serve basis and businesses can still apply even if they didn't get to attend the workshop.

Call 606-638-4102 for more information.

June 15, 2016

Larry' Grocery & Pool Hall Owner Accused of Ripping Off Taxpayers

Among the Indictments for June include an alleged murderer of two people that lived on Knob Branch in the Blaine area, and a long time store owner of Larry's Grocery on Route 1690 that has been charged with Misappropriating the Use of Food Stamp Cards.

After some research on this topic it is apparent that food stamp fraud is a HUGE problem in many areas. In 2015 a store in Martin Co. Was busted for food stamp fraud after finding that people were buying cases of pop with food stamps and selling it to the store for half the price getting cash back. It's a problem facing our region, and it's costing the taxpayers BIG MONEY. 

Several of those charged, including Wilbur have not yet been arrested according to records at the Big Sandy Detention Center

Larry Wilbur, 54 of Louisa, Ky (Highway 1690) Charged with 2 Counts of Fraudulent Use of An EBT Card. A Class D Felony, Penalty: 1 to 5 years and not more than $10,000.

The Grand Jury charges that on May 8th 2015 and July 6th 2015 in Lawrence County, On May 8th 2015, Larry Wilbur committed the offense of fraudulent use of an EBT card by knowingly and unlawfully misappropriating or attempting to misappropriate a food stamp authorization to purchase card, food stamp identification or a Medicaid identification card or misappropriate other benefits  from any program with which the person has been assigned responsibility, nor shall the person knowingly fail to report any of these activities. On July 6, 2015, Larry Wilbur committed the offense of fraudulent use of an EBT card by knowingly and ulawfully misappropriating or attempting to misappropriate a food stamp authorization to purchase card, food stamp identification card or a Medicaid identification card, Food stamp identification card or a Medicaid  identification card or misappropriate other benefit from any program with which The person has been assigned a responsibility, nor shall the person knowingly fail to report any of these activities.  Larry Wilbur has a bail set for 5,000.        

Stanley Webb, Jr. 48 of Logan, Ohio has been indicted on the following charges: 2 COUNTS OF MURDER, Penalty for Murder in Kentucky can be Death, Imprisonment for Life Without Parole, Life Without Benefit of Probation Or Parole Until The Service of 25 Years, Life in Prison, Or a term of years not less than 20 years nor more than 50 years. Webb was also indicted on THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING OVER $10,000. This is a class C Felony with a penalty of 5 to 10 years and a fine of not more than 10,000. POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON. This has a penalty of 5 to 10 years as well.

The Grand Jury charges that on or before April 2, 2016 in Lawrence County Kentucky, that the defendant Stanley Webb, Jr. Committed the offense of murder when he intentionally caused the death of the Lois C. Gartin by shooting her with a firearm. Stanley Webb, Jr., committed the offense of murder when he intentionally cause the death of Michael Gartin by shooting him with a firearm. Webb committed the offense of theft by unlawful taking over $10,000 by knowingly and unlawfully taking or exercising control over a 2003 blue Jeep liberty which belong to the deceased, Lois Gartin, having a value of more than $10,000. The Grand Jury also charges that on or before April 1, 2016 through April 2 of 2016 in Lawrence County Kentucky, and before the finding of the indictment herein, The above named defendant committed the offenses of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon when he knowingly and in lawfully possessed to Hand guns having been previously convicted of a felony offense. Webb is currently being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Ctr. 

Justin E. Marcum, 29 of Louisa, Ky. Has been indicted by the Grand Jury for Trafficking In The 2nd Degree. A class D felony with a penalty of 1 to 3 years.

The grand jury charges that on or before March 9, 2016 and Lawrence County Kentucky the above named defendant Justin Marcum acting alone or in complicity with Rodney Fletcher committed the offense of trafficking in that controlled substance in the 2nd Degree (less than 20 dosage units) by knowingly and unlawfully being in possession of a scheduled three controlled substance III with the intent to traffic in that substance, or by trafficking in that schedule III controlled substance, namely Suboxone. Bail was set at 5,000.

Rodney F. Fletcher, 45 of Inez, Ky. Was indicted on Trafficking in the 2nd Degree a class D felony with a penalty of 1 to 3 years.

The Grand Jury charges that on or before March 9th, 2016 the above named defendant acting alone or in complicity with Justin Marcum committed the offense of trafficking in a controlled substance in the 2nd°( less than 20 dosage units)  by knowingly and unlawfully being in possession of a scheduled III controlled substance with the intent to traffic in that substance, or by trafficking in the schedule III controlled substance, namely, Suboxone. 

Elizabeth Green, 46 of Louisa, Ky. Has been indicted for Fraudulent Use Of An EBT Card/ Complicity. A class D felony that has a penalty of 1 to 5 years.

The Grand Jury charges that on January 1st, 2016 through March 23rd, 2016 in Lawrence County, Ky. The above named defendant acting alone or in complicity with Nathaniel Houston and Christopher Caldwell committed the offense of fraudulent use of an EBT card by knowingly and unlawfully misappropriating or attempting to misappropriate a food stamp authorization to purchase card, food stamp identification card or a Medicaid identification card or misappropriate other benefits from any program which the person has been assigned responsibility, nor shall the person knowingly fail to report any of these activities.

Nathaniel F. Houston, 21 of Louisa, Ky. Has been indicted for the charge of Fraudulent Use Of An EBT Card/ Complicity. A class D felony that has a penalty of 1 to 5 years. The Grand Jury charges that on January 1st, 2016 through March 23rd, 2016 in Lawrence County, Ky. The above named defendant acting alone or in complicity with Elizabeth Green and Christopher Caldwell committed the offense of fraudulent use of an EBT card by knowingly and unlawfully misappropriating or attempting to misappropriate a food stamp authorization to purchase card, food stamp identification card or a Medicaid identification card or misappropriate other benefits from any program which the person has been assigned responsibility, nor shall the person knowingly fail to report any of these activities.

Christopher A. Caldwell, 43 of Ft. Gay, WV Has been indicted for the charge of Fraudulent Use Of An EBT Card/ Complicity. A class D felony that has a penalty of 1 to 5 years. The Grand Jury charges that on January 1st, 2016 through March 23rd, 2016 in Lawrence County, Ky. The above named defendant acting alone or in complicity with Elizabeth Green and Nathaniel Houston committed the offense of fraudulent use of an EBT card by knowingly and unlawfully misappropriating or attempting to misappropriate a food stamp authorization to purchase card, food stamp identification card or a Medicaid identification card or misappropriate other benefits from any program which the person has been assigned responsibility, nor shall the person knowingly fail to report any of these activities.

Carl P. Barnes, 54 of Capital Heights, MD. Has been indicted for Theft Of Services, a Class D felony with a penalty of 1 to 5 years.

The Grand Jury charges that fron June 9, 2015 through July 10, 2015 in Lawrence county Kentucky that the defendant committed the offense of theft of services by intentionally obtaining services by deception false token or other means to avoid payment for services known to be available only for compensation, namely $1,224 worth of services from Arnold Carter. Bond has been set for $5000.]

June 15, 2016

 Eric Ward gets five years plus five years probation

Jesse Caudill, 32 - was present for a Motion for Shock Probation. The motion was denied. 

Traci Hall Combs, 30 - Was present on charges of 4 counts of Fraudulent Use of A Credit Card, defendant was given 5 years Supervised Probation on each count to run concurrently. A judgement has been signed that defendant can be released on this case, but has to answer to charges in other counties. 

Alison Fitzgerald, 29 -  Was present on a Probation Revocation Hearing. Defendant Stipulates to a Graduated Sanction, Drug Court.

James Fitzpatrick, 22 - Was present on Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st offense ( Methamphetamine), Trafficking 2nd Degree, 1st Offense (drug unspecified), Failure of Non Owner Operator To Maintain Required Insurance, 1st offense. Defendant pled guilty on all charges and will be final sentenced on 7-8-16. On a separate set of cases, defendant pled guilty to Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st. Degree, 1st offense. Possession of A Controlled Substance (drug unspecified) Use/ Possess Drug Paraphernalia, 1st offense and Possession of Marijuana. Final sentenced will be held on 7-8-16.

Diane Lemasters, 52 - Was in court on charges of Trafficking, 1st Degree, 1st offense (drug unspecified) Trafficking in Marijuana, less than 8 ounces, 1st offense, and Drug Paraphernalia, Buy/Possess. The defendant stipulates to Bond Violation.

Robert Locklear, 44 - A status hearing was held on the charge of Flagrant Non Support. Reset for 7-8-16.

Nathaniel Pack, 33 - Was present on the charge of Probation Violation for felony offense. Reset for 6-24-16.

Jeremy Smith, 37 - Was present on a Motion to Revoke Probation, Hearing set for 6-24-16.

Randall Thompson, 53 - Was present to be arraigned on Receiving Stolen Property u/10,000. Pretrial set for 7-22-16. The defendant was appointed a Public defender and bail remains at 5,000.

Eric T. Ward, 21 - Was sentenced for the following charges unlawful taking/shoplifting ( 5 years probation) Burglary, 3rd degree, (5 years) Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree ( time served)

Stacy Zeiters, 34 - Was present and was sentenced on the following charges: 1st Degree Possession of Cocaine (2 years) Menacing (time served) Resisting Arrest ( time served) Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place 1st and 2nd (time served) 2 days credit.

William Chaffin, 28 - Was present before the judge on a motion for shock probation. The motion was denied. 

Bobby Wellman, 33 - Was present on charges, Flagrant Non Support and Persistent Felony Offender. A pretrial conference was set for 7-22-16.

June 15, 2016

Local, state and national police agencies on the lookout for Smallwood

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. -- An inmate who escaped from the Big Sandy Detention Center last night is still on the loose according to BSRDC administrator F.D. "Pete" Fitzpartick. 

"We have him listed on the NCIC all over the nation and state police and local sheriff's departments are also on the lookout for him, but we haven't captured him yet," Fitzpatrick said.

David Smallwood, 46, of Nicholasville, Ky. escaped custody after assuming the identity of another inmate who was scheduled to be released yesterday, Fitzpatrick said. "He just slipped by on us, that's all you can say. He doesn't look anything like the prisoner he exchanged clothing with, but he pulled it off."

The facility was put on lockdown 20 minutes after Smallwood was released.

Smallwood apparently went to the home of his girlfriend in Paintsville and changed clothes from the ones he got from the other inmate before heading out again. Fitzpatrick said. "We don't know for sure where he went but we have reason to believe he will try to go back home to Nicholasville."

Smallwood was in jail on 4th degree assault and domestic violence charges as well as two separate Failure to Appear charges.

Fitzpatrick said there was no evidence of collusion between Smallwood and the man he changed places with, Michael Andrew Gibson, 31, from Gallipolis, Ohio. 

Lawrence County man lost six friends in Orlando shooting

It has almost become a “normal” thing to wake up and while drinking your morning coffee and watching the morning news, to hear the weather for the day and hear about another bombing that has happened somewhere in the United States or other countries.

It’s almost that we are literally numb as a country that unless it is close to home, in our town or effects someone we love or know personally, we just walk away and go through the rest of our day without thinking of the horror that some people just like us are going through.

After all, what can we do to change things? How can we stop spineless people from killing innocent people? Before when we waged war, we knew the enemy because they wore a uniform that was different than ours. Now the enemy walks among us, eats at the same restaurants, attends the same functions as us and our children. What did America do to deserve such an outpouring of irrational, blind hatred? America is such a great, open-hearted country that we welcome these very people in, make the American Dream accessible to them, only for them to in return kill and maim our people.

The last and deadliest mass shooting happened in Orlando, Florida. Omar Mateen, 29, walked into a LGBT nightclub named Pulse and killed 49 people and injured 53 with a hand gun and an AR-16 war machine gun. It is called the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. While I know that this isn't new news to anyone who has turned on the television or radio in the last couple of days, there is news that may bring this somewhat closer to your home than you think.

Living just 3 blocks away from the nightclub where all of the savage killing and maiming took place was a man who was born and raised right here in Lawrence County, a 2006 LCHS graduate named Travis Whitt, who frequented the bar at various times.

That was the beginning of a horrific day for this young man and his friends, he said.

As he and his boyfriend stood outside their home, they heard a huge bomb sound, later he found out that it was the bomb set off by police to distract the gunman. A few minutes later he recalled hearing a barrage of gunshots, which later he had found out that it had also been when the police finally took the shooter out.

"The next hours were spent making a list of all of my closest friends and one by one marking them off as I found their location and that they were alive," Whitt said.

Then the time came where they were down to six names that had not been accounted for. Unfortunately those six did not make it out alive. When I say that I cannot fathom losing 6 people that I love and care about at the same time, I'm sure that most of us can relate.

Fact is that this small town Louisa boy probably felt the same way just one day before the massacre. He stated in the interview that he realized that Orlando was a bigger place than Louisa, but every town is the same. Everyone knows everyone, and if you don’t.. You know someone that does.

He wanted to send the message that there is a go-fund-me account set up for the victims in Orlando in case you felt you wanted to do something to help and didn’t know how. He also said that as of yesterday, there were people wrapped around the buildings to donate blood, and one man went into a fast food restaurant and bought 100 hamburgers and 100 bottles of water to feed the people who were in line.

As American’s we stand together in tragedy.. But when does this end??? When will we ever feel safe in our own towns? Will we?

RICHARDS SUSPENDED W/O PAY AT LCHS

14 staff members resign county-wide

300 Participating in Summer Feeding Program; District Commits to Process Improvement Planning Areas of Focus

LOUISA – At the June meeting of the Lawrence County Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Robbie Fletcher updated the members on several items of interest during the communication segment of the agenda, including a wide ranging summer feeding program and areas of focus for improvement in the future.

“The summer feeding program is going full swing at various locations," Fletcher said, "We are serving over 300 kids and we have automated phone calls going out to households to let them know about lunches being served to kids 18 and under in their areas.” 

Locations being served by the summer lunch program include: Louisa East Elementary, Blaine School and Fallsburg School on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Louisa Public Library on Monday through Friday, the Bookmobile, Cherryville Church on Mondays and Wednesdays, Webbville Fire Department on Tuesdays, Blaine Fire Department on Thursdays, Unity Baptist Church on Mondays, the Community Center at Blaine on Wednesdays, Webb Chapel and Bradley Gap Church on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Fletcher also updated the Board on the selection of focus areas for the Process Improvement and Performance Excellence (PIPE). The areas chosen were: Transportation, Energy Efficiency, Strategic Planning and On-Boarding of new hires.

Fletcher told the members that transportation had already been focusing on redesigning bus routes for maximum efficiency through studies done by Transportation Director Rick Blackburn and that the process would look at reducing energy expenditures even though plans implemented previously had already addressed conservation measures and drastically cut energy costs.

Areas such as strategic planning and the process of getting employment candidates would be streamlined to get as much of the system online and off of paper.

“This really will help us get up to date on hiring processes and remove a lot of the time consuming factors to get us where we need to be,” Board Chairman Heath Preston said. 

Dr. Fletcher also recognized the hiring of Stuart Cook as assistant principal at Lawrence County High School and noted that his assuming of those duties leaves a vacancy in the principal position at Fallsburg. 

"We do have to start the principal search process again at Fallsburg.," Fletcher said. "We will have our first meeting to set timelines, etc. shortly after the 4th of July holiday.  I am happy for Mr. Cook, but we will need to find another good leader for the students of Fallsburg."  Cook took over at fallsburg at the beginning of the 2015-16 school year.

Fletcher was able to name Cook as assistant LCHS principal because of the absence of a Site Based Decision Making Committee at LCHS which is a result of the SIG grant six years ago. That grant ordered the dismantling of the SDDM committee and gave the siperintendent all the power to hire and fire at the high school. State officials have not said when the SBDM committee will have to be resumed at the county's only high school

The Board also honored former Lawrence County Schools’ employee Agnes Lee Conley Lyon, who passed away recently. Mrs. Lyon taught special education in Lawrence County for many years 

Superintendent’s Personnel Action/Update

June 20, 2016

Hiring

Rebecca Green- Teacher at Lawrence County High School

Recalled

Jennifer Smith- Teacher at Louisa Middle School

Amanda Elliott- Teacher at Louisa West Elementary School

Change of Position

Stuart Cook- From Principal at Fallsburg Elementary School to Assistant Principal at Lawrence County High School (effective July 1, 2016)

Pamela Howell- From School Secretary at Fallsburg Elementary School to Payroll Clerk I – District Office (effective July 1, 2016)

Suspension without Pay 

William Richards - Teacher at Lawrence County High School. Dr. Fletcher has no comment on the situation at this time.   

Resignations

Jessica DeLong- Teacher at Lawrence County High School (effective June 30, 2016)

Meagan Horney- Teacher at Lawrence County High School (effective June 30, 2016)

Nikki Nelson- Teacher at Louisa Middle School

Donna J. West- Teacher at Louisa Middle School (effective July 1, 2016)

Emma Jean Maynard- Teacher at Louisa East Elementary School

Loretta McKenzie- Teacher at Louisa West Elementary School (effective June 24, 2016)

Laura Compton- Teacher at Louisa West Elementary School

Erin Evans- LBD Teacher at Louisa East Elementary School

Sarah Perotti- LBD Teacher at Louisa West Elementary School

Caroline Heston- Preschool Teacher at Blaine Elementary School

Shawna Jenks- Payroll Clerk I – District Office

Alicia Conley- Instructional Assistant at Blaine Elementary School (effective June 30, 2016)

Sarah Roe- Instructional Assistant at Fallsburg Elementary School

Jonathan Hall- Bus Driver

Re: Request to the Lawrence County Board of Education for Abolishment and Creation regarding Positions

Request the following position be abolished:

• (1) LBD/FMD Teacher at Lawrence County High School (1-Year)

Request the following positions be created:

• (1) LBD Teacher at Lawrence County High School
• (1) FMD Teacher at Lawrence County High School
• (1) Teacher at Louisa East Elementary School (1-Year; if necessary due to approval of agreement with Morehead State University for current teacher to serve as National Board Certified Teacher-in-Residence from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017)

Fiscal court mulls property tax hike, occupational tax 

LOUISA, Ky. -- Before Monday's regular June Fiscal Court meeting County Treasurer Sabrina Cantrell advised that the fiscal court has received $400,000 less than expected in coal, gas and oil mineral taxes which will put a big dent in the county budget.

Cantrell said a special meeting was held on June 13th to work on the budget but said the county, as of now, does not plan any layoffs, benefit cuts or salary cuts to help make up for the low mineral tax receipts.

"I think they are going to cut back on work on roads and bridges and other county services and not have any layoffs," Cantrell said. "What is carrying us through right now is the FEMA reimbursement money on the gravel."

Magistrate John J. Lemaster said he has heard from some of his friends in the oil/gas industry that it is expected to pick back up soon. Former Lawrence County State Rep. Rocky Adkins said last year that millions of gallons of oil snd gas will be flowing from Lawrence County in the near future but new laws and regulations on fracking are hindering the progress since Adkins made that statement.

Osborne complained about the remaining mineral companies as well as loggers tearing up the roads as fast as the county can fix them.

"It's mostly the 'out of county' operations that are hurting, they pay nearly nothing to the county to help maintain the roads they tear up," he said.

Two of the county's four magistrates are involved in the logging industry, Republican Earl Boggs and Democrat Morris Howard.

Hogan said in Monday's meeting that the county can impose a bond on all trucks that would amount to enough to repair a county road if it was torn up by heavy trucks but no action was taken.

Cantrell noted in the special meeting minutes that there is more money going out than coming in and that the only item with funds still left in it is the forestry fund. County Clerk Chris Jobe said those monies cannot be used for any purpose except to pay the state for fire protection. "The state really needs to change that and allow counties to pay the money to local fire departments but I don't see getting that done any time soon," Jobe said.

Deputy Clerk Pam Taylor, who supplied the copy of the minutes of the spercial meeting said the jail fund also continues to be a drag on county monies. County Attorney Mike Hogan said he has attempted to have some of the costs reduced but has not been able to do so.

Hogan explained that the major problem is the time it takes to get a prisoner to trial and pointed at Commonwealth's Attorny Anna Melvin's office as the culprit.

"If we can get them (prisoners) processed through the system faster, it should cut down on the cost," Hogan said in the minutes.

Judge John Osborne asked about why prisioners were taken to jail when a ticket would be just as good and Hogan said most of it is from the Louisa Police Dept.

"They said this is mainly because they have several new officers and it is good training for them to go ahead and take them to jail," Osborne said. 

Osborne then said the only place he sees to gain revenue is to cut or do away with paying for family plan health insurance for county employees. UPDATE: THE COUNTY'S COST FOR THE HEALTH BENEFITS IS $288,154. PER YEAR.

"A lot of counties are cutting health insurance all together," Osborne said. "We may have to go that route too."

Hogan said although he does not recommend it, the county could raise property tax rates and/or institute an occupational tax to boost the county's bottom line.

"It would probably mean you would not get re-elected but you could go that route," Hogan said.

No mention was made of layoffs or cutting salaries during the discussion.

In other business Monday the court:

* Approved the appointment of George Holbrook to the county Library Board.

* Unanimously approved FY/17 County Road Aid Cooperative Agreement between Ky. Transportation cabinet and Lawrence co. Fiscal Court.

* Awarded bids on gravel (mostly to Big Sandy Resources), oil, pipe and blacktop. (See list as soon as the clerk gets them ready for publication)

* Approved an agreement with the Commonwealth of Ky. KIA and Lawrence County Fiscal Court for $45,000 for improvement on Torchlight Road.

* Unanimously approved a $1,000 donation to the Tourism Commission for 4th of July celebration 

* Discussed raising the motel/hotel tax from 3% to 4% but did not take any action pending a meeting between judge Osborne and the Louisa mayor to discuss joint agreement. Osborne also informed the court that a cabin rental business in Fallsburg owned by Bill and Wanda Cassady has not been paying the tax and say they are not going to. Hogan said they had to pay the tax like all the other rental places but Osborne said they have not paid in several months and refuse to do so. The action was tabled until next month's meeting to give Hogan an opportunity to speak to the Cassadys about the tax payment.

* The court went into executive session to discuss litigation but returned to the meeting and announced that no action was taken. The litigation is presumed to the a potential million dollar lawsuit filed against the county, Sheriff Garrett Roberts and two of his deputies by Joesph Collins concerning the death of his father, Billy Collins at the Louisa Police department last year.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF BUDGET ORDINANCE 

BUDGET SUMMARY

AN ORDINANCE Relating to the Annual Budget and Appropriations.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE FISCAL COURT OF __LAWRENCE______ COUNTY,

KENTUCKY:

SECTION ONE.  The following budget is adopted for the Fiscal Year _2016-2017_ and the amounts stated are appropriated for the purposes indicated.

(01)General Fund

General Government$_  1,194,076.12

Protection to Persons and Property$__    99,881.00

General Health and Sanitation$__    91,094.32

Social Services$____  16,200.00

Recreation and Culture$___  226,587.00

Debt Service$___   69,890.69

Administration$__   762,576.87

(Other - define)__Capital Projects$__    46,000.00 

(Other - define)__    _           $__            _

(Other – define)                  $               

Total$___2,506,306.00 

(02)Road Fund

Transportation Facilities$_________     _

Roads$__ 1,494,665.00

Debt Service$___

Administration$___  289,445.00

Total$_  1,784,110.00

(03)Jail Fund

Protection to Persons and Property$___ 418,873.59

Debt Service$__________   _ 

Administration$___  40,562.41

Total$___ 459,436.00

(04)LGEA Fund

General Government$     45,746.02 

General Health and Sanitation$____ 15,000.00 

Protection to Persons and Property$     38,000.00 

Social Services$_____ 1,000.00 

Recreation and Culture$     10,000.00 

Roads$___ 182,000.00 

Debt service$          0.00 

Administration (Allowable categories only) $___  36,942.00 

(Other - define)__Capital Projects____$_____30,600.00 

(Other – define)__Reserve for Transfer$        911.98 

Total$__  360,200.00

 (12)  Forestry Fund

Protection to Persons and Property$____ 57,361.00

Total$____ 57,361.00 

(77)Sewer Fees Fund

Debt Service$____ 52,629.60 

Capital Projects$____ 16,389.40 

                          Total$____ 69,019.00 

(95)E-911 Fund

Protection to Persons and Property$___ 191,417.00 

General Government$_____     0.00 

Administration                             $____ 41,857.00 

Total$___ 233,274.00 

Adopted this  21^st day of    June, 2016 .

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

All interested persons and organizations in Lawrence County are hereby notified that a copy of the county's proposed budget in full is available for public inspection at the Office of the County Judge/Executive during normal business hours.

Insurance Attorneys file answer to Collins lawsuit

Insurance attorneys in the Billy Collins lawsuit  have moved a lawsuit filed by the estate Collins who died after being arrested in Louisa in 2015, to federal court and asked that the complaint be dismissed. Collins death was recorded by a body cam worn by one of the officers involved in the case.

The Lazer has published the video.

The lawsuit was filed on May 20th, 2016, against the following people and agencies for “ALLEGEDLY CAUSING THE DEATH OF BILLY COLLINS: officer Stephen Wilburn, officer Jordan Miller, Chief Greg Fugitt, Sheriff Garrett Roberts, deputy Mason Keefer, deputy Mack Wilhite, The Louisa Police Dept., The City of Louisa, and The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office, were all named in the complaint. 

The suit was initially filed in Lawrence Circuit Court, but attorneys for the defendant removed the case to U.S. District Court in Ashland, which they say has proper jurisdiction to hear the allegations. The attorneys Robert T. Watson and Chris J. Gadanksy of Louisville, and Jonathan C. Shaw of Paintsville, also filed a motion to dismiss the complaint or, in the alternative, for summary judgment.

Lawrence County Attorney Mike Hogan said the county and city have separated in the case and will use different attorneys. He said he will advise the fiscal court to ask the insurance attorneys to settle the case before going to court. The county has $3 million in aggregate insurance with a $1 million limit per incident, he said. Louisa City Attorney Eldred "Bud" Adams refused to comment on how much insurance the city has.

 “The facts of this matter as alleged in the complaint demonstrate that claims against all official capacity defendants should be dismissed as a matter of law; state law claims against Lawrence County and Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office are barred by sovereign/governmental immunity and claims based upon vicarious and/or respondent superior liability fail as a matter of law,” the request for dismissal said. The request also argues that the claims against the individual defendants in their official capacity are redundant and should be dismissed.

“State law claims against defendants in their official capacity are barred by the doctrine of official immunity,” the request for dismissal said. “Official immunity is immunity from tort liability afforded to public officers and employees for acts performed in the exercise of their discretionary functions. It rests not on the status or title of the officer or employee, but on the function performed.”

The attorneys say Kentucky’s law of sovereign immunity “bars state-law actions against county governments,” saying “Kentucky subdivisions are not liable for the tortious performance of governmental function, nor vicariously liable for the negligence of their employees,"

The suit said that while Collins was in the custody of the Louisa Police Department, city officers and Sheriff’s deputies’ “use of force against the decedent was willful, negligent, grossly negligent, excessive and caused his death” and was “so blatantly a violation of decedent’s rights under both the United States Constitution and Kentucky Constitution such that punitive damages are warranted.”

“The Defendants’ tortious conduct was a result of customs and practices, either written or unwritten, that were systematically applied to persons situated such as the decendent and was so applied to the decedent in this case,” the suit says. “The implementation of these customs and practices whether written or unwritten by the Defendants named herein were a proximate cause of decedent’s death.”

Billy Joseph "Joe" Collins is the administrator of his father’s estate. The estate is represented by Ashland Attorney Michael Curtis.

A lawsuit or its answer spell out only one side of a case.

 SEE VIDEO HERE

WEST VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS SEES SOME OF THE WORST FLOODING IN 155 YEARS

Lawrence county went through a grand finale after three days of high winds, numerous heavy rainstorms, and tennis ball sized hail along the northern county borders. On Thursday, a maelstrom of action that saw numerous rainstorms from sunrise throughout the afternoon then exploded into crisis mode when a tornado warning was issued at 2:45 PM. The tornado warning was followed by a 4 PM warning for severe thunderstorms for Northern Lawrence County.

The National Weather Service canceled most warnings only to have a monsoon erupt over the Louisa area, that ended with those storm systems exiting toward Southern Elliot County and Western Johnson Co.

Several more cloudburst rain storms continued for hours afterward leaving high water, fallen trees, mudslides and power outages. At one point, 2000 people in Lawrence County alone were without electricity. There were three rescues of individuals trapped in their vehicles on Two Mile Crk. Rd. , Rt. 32 in the Cyrus Construction area, and highway 2565, South of highway 644.

Lawrence County Judge Executive John Osborne issued a State of Emergency declaration on Friday night iaskin for the county to qualify for federal aid to clear out the storm damage.

In bordering West Virginia, things were much worse. Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin declared 44 out of 55 counties a state of emergency, with some areas getting up to 10 inches of rain yesterday alone. Several cities in Central West Virginia had the highest flood stages in the past 130 to 155 years.

In West Virginia there were 9 to 10 inches of rain down upon parts trapping 500 people in a shopping center in Elkview,( which is about 15 miles north east of Charleston) when a culvert bridge washed out. People had to be plucked off of rooftops or rescued from upper stories of their homes as the water quickly rose. At least four people died, including an eight-year-old boy who is swift away by Swiftwater, officials were looking for another young boy who is also Swift away in a different county said authorities and Governor Earl Ray Tomlin’s spokesman. Unlike Lawrence County they had tens of thousands of people without power. Although some areas were evacuated before or during the storm, the governors spokesman said other people had to be rescued. Kanawha county emergency officials said there were at least 70 water rescues.

Kentucky Power spokesperson Allison Barker released the following report Saturday (today) morning:

Kentucky Power Storm Update

Saturday, June 25, 2016 – 9 a.m.

Summary

Kentucky Power has restored power to about 93 percent of nearly 19,000 customers who lost service after multiple bands of strong thunderstorms with flooding rains moved through Kentucky Power’s service territory on Thursday. The storms damaged and knocked down multiple poles and spans of wire.

Weather

Forecasts through Sunday call for warmer, dryer conditions with a 30 percent chance of rain through Sunday.  Temperatures will be in the high 80s to low 90s for the weekend.  The break in the weather will aid restoration efforts.

Storm Response Efforts

About 280 Kentucky Power employees and contractors are responding to hazards and outages. About 100 forestry contract workers also are out removing fallen trees and debris. Crews are working to replace 14 remaining broken poles, most of which will require time-consuming manual replacement before power can be fully restored.

Outages

As of 9 a.m., power had been restored to about 17,600 Kentucky Power customers. About 1,400 customers remain without electricity. Counties with more than 100 customers remaining without service include Breathitt (124), Floyd (115), Martin (519) and Pike (644). Additional scattered outages affecting fewer than 100 customers are scattered across other counties and in more isolated areas. South Williamson area customers should have service by 4 p.m. Saturday. Most other customers should have power restored by midnight Saturday.

A snapshot view of current outages affecting 100 customers or more is available anytime at www.kentuckypower.com. Outages affected fewer than 100 customers do not appear on the map but will be addressed as soon as possible. Go to the Outages and Problems section of the site and click "View Outage Map." Customers can report outages online or to our Customer Solutions Center at 1-800-572-1113.

For More Information

This update provides a broad overview of the company’s restoration efforts. Customers can get specific information about the outages affecting their accounts via text message and/or email by subscribing to Kentucky Power outage alerts. To sign up, please visit www.kentuckypower.com/alerts. Information also is posted on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyPower.

Next Update:  Updates will be provided as conditions warrant.

LOCAL FLOODING (You can see numerous pics on FB)

OLD LICK CREEK ROAD LOUISA

 
KY 201 JUST SOUTH OF KY 1 IN THE WEBBVILLE AREA.  (Right) ISSAC PARK ROAD & KY 32 SIDE NEAR ISAAC PARK ROAD AREA

 

US 23 SIDE OF ISAAC PARK ROAD

DEEPHOLE BRANCH ROAD AREA NEXT TO YATESVILLE DAM & MARINA. ESTIMATED SIX TO SEVEN FEET DEEP OF FLOOD WATER. 

RAINFALL TOTAL FOR TRI-STATE REGION FROM 3 A.M. JUNE 23 TO 3 A.M. JUNE 24. ALL OF LAWRENCE COUNTY GOT AT LEAST THREE INCHES WITH WEBBVILE TO CARTER COUNTY LINE GETTING UP TO 5 INCHES. HOWEVER, AREAS NORTH AND EAST OF CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA RECEIVED UP TO 10 INCHES, WHERE THE CITY OF CLAY, WEST VIRGINIA GOT ITS HIGHEST FLOOD STAGE SINCE 1861!!

 June 27, 2016

Old Unit 2 site will become new industrial park

LOUISA, June 27, 2016 – The Big Sandy Power Plant is once again generating electricity for Kentucky Power customers with the successful conversion to a natural gas-fired facility.

“The conversion of Big Sandy Unit 1 from coal to natural gas is a significant accomplishment,” said Kentucky Power President and COO Greg Pauley. “Our employees have done a fantastic job over the years and will continue to provide eastern Kentucky with safe, reliable and affordable electricity, generated now from natural gas at Big Sandy, as well as from coal at our Mitchell plant in West Virginia.”

Unit 1 opened at the Big Sandy plant in 1963 and operated until Nov. 13, 2015. The conversion to burn natural gas as a fuel started soon after. Major construction was completed by mid-May this year. On May 30, 2016, the converted unit went online to begin supplying up to 268 MW of gas-generated electricity to PJM Interconnection, the electricity grid operator for more than 61 million people in D.C. and 13 states, including Kentucky.

How the conversion has unfolded is documented in a video posted here.

“Our goal here in doing this is to make a reliable grid to power our neighbors’ homes,” said Ricky Brown, an 8-year employee. “With the plant still here in Lawrence County, it provides jobs, it provides a tax base. It’s a big help for the community.”

Big Sandy and its employees have been a part of the community for more than 50 years, and will continue to be active supporters, said Big Sandy Plant manager Aaron Sink.

“We will always cherish the memories and what Big Sandy has meant and will continue to mean to the area,” Sink said. “We have provided low-cost electricity to the region and with this conversion will continue to do so well into the future.”

While the conversion marks the beginning of a new chapter for Big Sandy, it won’t be the last. Kentucky Power’s long-term plans include removing Unit 2 and redeveloping a portion of the site into an industrial park, Pauley said.

“The flat land at Big Sandy is located between a four-lane highway and the Big Sandy River,” Pauley said. “It has not only highway and river access, but also rail. It has the potential to be an ideal industrial park site and we look forward to pursuing that possibility for the region.”

Kentucky Power, a unit of American Electric Power, serves about 169,000 customers in 20 eastern Kentucky counties and owns 50 percent of the Mitchell Power Plant in Moundsville, W.Va.   

June 28, 2016

Kirk sentenced to 6 years on multiple charges

LOUISA, Ky. -- Alleged double murderer Stanley Webb, Jr. 48, made his first appearance in court  for arraignment after being indicted on charges of 2 counts of Murder, Theft by Unlawful Taking, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He is charged with the murders of Lois "Peggy" Gartin, 79, and her stepson Michael Gartin, 52, who were shot and killed at their home near Blaine on April 2, 2016.  

Judge Preston made the call to leave his bond at $1 million, because of the severity of the charge and due to the defendant being from out of state (Ohio). Webb was appointed a Public Defender and his pretrial date was set for 7-22-16. 

In other cases:

Clifton Williams, 28, was present to be arraigned on Charges of Theft By Failure to Make Required Disposition of Property. Mr. Williams was ask to fill out a AOI to see if he qualifies for a public defender. Pretrial in this case was set for 7-22-16

Rodney Fletcher, 45, was arraigned on Complicity Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 2^nd degree, 1^st offense. Pretrial in this case was set for 7-22-16.

Justin Harless, 28, was present on charges of Manufacturing Methamphetamine, 1^st offense. He was present for motion hour. His case was reset for 7-8-16. 

Nathaniel Houston, 21, was present to be arraigned on charges of Fraudulent Use of ID Card of Electronic Code for Benefits. Defendant will remain on bond until his pretrial date set for 7-22-16.

James Howard, 21, Defendant was not present on a Probation Revocation hearing and a bench warrant was issued.

Sharon King, 52, was present on Tampering with Physical Evidence and at this time, nothing could be done in this case, Preston said.

William King, 57, was present on Tampering with Physical Evidence and at this time, nothing could be done in this case, Preston said.

Justin Kirk, 21, was sentenced in the following charges: Complicity Tampering with Physical Evidence (5 years) Wanton Endangerment 1^st degree -Police Officer (5 years) Criminal Mischief, 1^st Degree (5 years Supervised Pretrial Diversion Concurrent with other charges) Theft by Unlawful Taking over $300 (12 Months) 12 Days of jail credit was given. Sentences to run concurrently for a total of six years.

James Moore, 65,  was present on charges of Failure to Comply With Sex Offender Registration,  and Persistent Felony Offender 2^nd Degree. Court is waiting on competency hearing and report.

Nathaniel Pack, 33, was present for Probation Violation Hearing. Defendant stipulates to violations. Probation was revoked and Remanded to the Dept. of Corrections for placement. 

Jeremy Smith, 37, was present on a Probation Revocation Hearing and Stipulates to Graduated Sanction Order. 

Melissa Thompson, 40, was present on charges of Manufacturing Methamphetamine, 1^st offense. Case was reset for 7-8-16.

Shirley Vincell, 28, was present for a motion to reduce bond on charges of Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Complicity Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Complicity Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and Complicity to Possess Drug Paraphernalia.  Motion was granted and bond was reduced to $5,000.

Larry Wilbur, 54, was present for arraignment after recent indictment for Fraudulent Use of ID Card of Electronic Code for Benefits. Pretrial date was set for 7-22-16.

Paul Pierre Williams, 29, was sentenced to 2 years of Supervised Probation on Theft by Unlawful Taking under $10,000. 

Martin Wright, 41, was present to show cause to have diversion completed by completing probation successfully. Motion was granted.

Taleka Sesco, 33,  was present on a motion to Revoke Probation. Hearing was set for 7-8-16.

 Candy May, 23, was present to be arraigned on Complicity to Manufacturing Methamphetamine, 1^st offense. Pretrial was set for 7-8-16.

Michael Wilks, 41, Present on Bench Warrants and Summons and charges not listed. Hearing set for 7-8-16.

Driver OK after scary 'roll over' on way home from work at prison 

Blaine Volunteer Fire Department and Netcare Ambulance Lawrence Co. responded to a one vehicle roll over on KY 32 near the Community Market near Blaine at approximately 11:00am this morning (Thursday).

Anthony Martin, 43, was on his way home from working a double shift at the Little Sandy Fed. Prison Complex when he fell asleep at the wheel and wrecked his late model KIA sedan. He was travelling eastward when the accident took place.

When emergency personnel arreived he was awake and talking coherently according to Sheriff's deputies Chuck Jackson and Mark Wheeler who  responded first. The ambulance and a fire truck from Louisa also responded to the scene.

Second accident sends deputies back to Blaine

James Bowen, 20 lost control and rolled his SUV while traveling east on Rt. 32 in a single car accident. Bowen appeared to be uninjured but was transported to TRMC by NetCare for precautionary reasons because of the serious nature of the accident. The SUV rolled over at least twice, knocked down a power pole and landed on its top.

"I couldn't get close enough for a better photo because of the "zonkie" (a donkey mixed with a zebra)...and that's the truth," said Lazer reporter Tane' Woods.

Lawrence Co, Sheriff's deputies Mark Wheeler and Chuck Jackson responded to the scene THU 4:33PM.

Edens prescribed meds to his father and suboxone to daughter

A LOUISA PHYSICIAN RECEIVED HARSH PENALTIES FROM THE KY. STATE MEDICAL BOARD DUE TO MISCONDUCT & VIOLATIONS INVOLVING MASSIVE SUBOXONE AND OTHER PAIN MEDICATION PRESCRIPTIONS, ALONG WITH ILLICIT AND UNETHICAL PRACTICES.

DR, CURT EDENS WHO IS A FORMER WSAZ "HOMETOWN HERO" WAS GIVEN PROBATION, HAD RESTRICTIONS PLACED ON HIS PRACTICE, A FINE, AND HAS TO ATTEND MULTIPLE MEDICAL RETRAINING PROGRAMS ACROSS THE COUNTRY, AFTER VIOLATING A PREVIOUS PROBATION ORDER AGREEMENT WITH KENTUCKY MEDICAL BOARD FROM 2011. HIS SUBOXONE REPRESENTATIVE SAID EDENS WAS THE ONLY PHYSICIAN IN THE NATION THAT GIVES SUBOXONE TO PREGNANT WOMEN. (2011)  

A high profile Louisa doctor was punished by the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensures in 2011 after they determined he has repeatedly committed multiple offenses and violations, especially after he had already been placed on probation by the medical board in the recent past.

Dr. Curt Edens, who is a physician licensed to practice osteopathy, with his specialty being obstetrics and gynecology, has been given several penalties and is now restricted by the state medical board on his practice of operations which is ongoing at his Louisa office. 

Among the many violations committed by Dr. Edens; he prescribed large amounts of Suboxone to individuals without proper examination and screenings, especially prescribing Suboxone to pregnant women. The medical board stated he was one of the the few physicians in the country to use the risky practice method, with it being known Suboxone causes a significant risk of miscarriages and premature births.

Eden also prescribed pain medication to his father and Suboxone to his daughter, which is an unethical 'no-no' across the country for physicians to prescribe controlled medications to their family members, the board noted.

Most importantly, Edens' actions of prescribing large amounts of Suboxone and possibly other medications led to individuals attending his medical office building in downtown Louisa, causing a spike in criminal activity in the area around his office (and in the general Louisa area), along with problematic parking and motor vehicle traffic on the roadways in the area of Edens' office, the 2011 complaint from te Louisa Police Dept. said.

In the extensive three part 36 page complaint stipulation inquiry report filed by the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensures on June 6, 2016 (6-6-16), that includes his lack of compliance from his still standing previous probation agreement with the state medical board, the entire report can read (via a PDF file) at this link HERE.

Lazer reporters have been attempting to secure copies of the report for the past three weeks but have been blocked by Kentucky Attorney General Andy Beshear's office staff.

In the midst of the storm...

Lawrence County Judge/Executive John Osborne declared a State of Emergency for the second time in as many weeks after a quick hitter storm ( possiblesmall tornado) hit the Wal-Mart shopping Center in Louisa turning over vehicles and severely damaging the store itseld which had dozens of customers inside.

"We were very lucky as we only had a few minor injuries from this storm and everything destroyed can be rebuilt.," Lawrence County DES Mike Woods said this morning."The worst impact from the storm may end up being those employed by Wal-Mart, as that store did sustain some serious damage. Let's pray that it won't be a long impact."

The storm struck at approximtely 3:30 pm and two hours later electrical service was lost in the town for about 30 minutes.

The Louisa FD, Louisa Police Department, Lawrence County E-911, Netcare Ambulance Lawrence Co. and Lawrence county Sheriffs office responded during the immediate aftermath of the storm. These individuals were swamped and stretched to their limits but performed great in a true disaster once again, Woods said.

Woods said other agencies responded to help during the night. Lawrence Co Search and Rescue, LowmansvilleVolunteer FireDepartment, Fallsburg Fire Dept, Big Sandy Fire Dept, Constable Paul Wells, American Red Cross Serving Eastern Kentucky, Tim Ellis and First Baptist Louisa, Three Rivers Medical Center, Lawrence County Health Department, County Judge John Osborne, Lawrence County Road Department, Mayor Harold Slone, Terry Tussy and Creative Home Solutions LLC for coming in and helping cover roofs totally for free.

"A big thank you to Wendys of Louisa, Hardee's, Giovanni's Pizza of Louisa and Burger King for their donations of food tonight for the emergency responders. Thank you so much. I would also like to thank the individuals that helped purchase water at Three Rivers Food Mart for the responders it was appreciated, EWoods said

Initial Rapid Needs Assessments have been completed and submitted to the State of Kentucky and we will be continuing damage assessments tomorrow. The National Weather Service should have a survey team in the area tomorrow to examine damage and verify the tornado status.

Members of the National Weather Service will likely make their way to Louisa, Kentucky, Tuesday to determine if Monday's storm, which injured five and inflicted extensive wind damage to Walmart, was the result of a tornado, according to WKYT.

Management at the store did not answer the phone today for questions about the re-opening time but WSAZ said yesterday the store will be inspected for damages before it resumes business.

Kentucky Power Storm Update

Tuesday, July 5, 2016 – 9 a.m.

Summary

Kentucky Power is working to restore service to customers after strong thunderstorms, winds and unconfirmed tornadoes moved through Kentucky Power’s service territory on Monday, leaving as many as 5,900 without service.

Weather

Forecasts call for a continued chance of thunderstorms on Tuesday that could produce torrential rainfall and may lead to isolated instances of flash flooding in the region.

Storm Response Efforts

Kentucky Power has requested 40 outside mutual assistance workers to assist employees and contractors in restoring outages. Crews are working to replace multiple broken poles and spans of down wire across the service territory.

Outages

As of 9 a.m. Tuesday, power had been restored to about half the 5,900 Kentucky Power customers who had lost power at the height of the storm Monday night. About 2,800 customers remain without electricity. Counties with more than 100 customers remaining without service include Breathitt (111), Floyd (689), Knott (303), Lawrence (390), Leslie (331), Perry (331), and Pike (675). Additional scattered outages affecting fewer than 100 customers are scattered across other counties and in more isolated areas. South Williamson and Paintsville area customers should have service by 6 p.m. Tuesday. Customers served by the Ashland District should have service restored by midnight Tuesday, while other customers served by the Pikeville District and the Hazard Districts should have service by midnight Wednesday.

A snapshot view of current outages affecting 100 customers or more is available anytime at www.kentuckypower.com. Outages affected fewer than 100 customers do not appear on the map but will be addressed as soon as possible. Go to the Outages and Problems section of the site and click "View Outage Map." Customers can report outages online or to our Customer Solutions Center at 1-800-572-1113.

For More Information

This update provides a broad overview of the company’s restoration efforts. Customers can get specific information about the outages affecting their accounts via text message and/or email by subscribing to Kentucky Power outage alerts. To sign up, please visit www.kentuckypower.com/alerts. Information also is posted on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KentuckyPower.

The 'Best Little Festival in Kentucky' promises to bring big crowds to Louisa again this year...

The Lawrence County Septemberfest committee has been working in full swing to bring another great festival to downtown Louisa. Septemberfest, which started as the potato festival 29 years ago is truly one of the best little festivals in Kentucky as its slogan claims.

It has been estimated that approx. 10-20,000 people attend over the festival weekend. Along with bringing entertainment, carnival games, and mountains of festival food, Septemberfest has also become like a homecoming for so many, with school and family reunions scattered at several places throughout town on that weekend.

The festival will be Friday September 9 and Saturday September 10th this year.

Entertainment this year will bring a spectacular Classic Rock Friday night with Already Gone Band and 7 BRIDGES ‘THE ULTIMATE EAGLES EXPERIENCE returning after being rained out last year before ever taking the stage.

The MAIN event will be country performer Craig Wayne Boyd, winner of the voice 2014, and opening act Marty Brown with his new hit single “Make you feel my Love”. (See the You Tube vodeos of the three top artists in this year's lineup on The Lazer Videos at the top of the main page)

Bluegrass star Ralph Stanley II will highlight the festivals bluegrass show in Main Street Park on Saturday with special guest Po Rambling Boys. Carnival Rides, Games and a special visit from Super Hero’s and the bat mobile in the parade will round out a very special time in downtown Louisa.

Visit our website at www.septemberfestlouisa.com  FOR COMPLETE DETAILS