Wednesday, February 22, 2017

PURSUIT LEADS TO ARREST IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  A Florissant, Missouri man has been taken into custody following a pursuit earlier this week in Southeast Missouri.

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on Monday officers responded to a disturbance call at the Deerfield Travel Center.

When officers arrived, a vehicle fleeing the scene struck the patrol car. Officers pursued the suspect vehicle, which reportedly exceeded speeds of 100 mph.

In New Madrid County, stop sticks were deployed which disabled the vehicle and the driver was taken into custody.

The driver has been identified as 29 year old James Graham Jr. Stanfield says that Graham has been charged with 2nd degree assault and additional charges are pending. His bond has been set at $75,000.

  SPECIAL PROSECUTOR APPOINTED IN STODDARD COUNTY MANSLAUGHTER CASE

  A special prosecutor has been appointed in connection to a fatal incident involving a pedestrian in Stoddard County.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver tells KWOC News that he filed a motion Tuesday for the appointment of a special prosecutor for the cases of Wesley Faries and Gaery Faries.

Wesley Faries has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the first degree. He was allegedly driving the vehicle that struck 21 year old Phillip Manning on February 17th. Manning was pronounced dead at the scene.

Faries father, Garey Faries, was charged with hindering prosecution for allegedly falsely claiming he was the driver of the vehicle.

Oliver says that New Madrid County Prosecuting Attorney, Andrew Lawson, has been appointed by the Court to prosecute the cases.

  PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY VEHICLE NEAR PUXICO

  A pedestrian was injured Tuesday after being hit by a vehicle in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Dana Roark, of Perryville, was walking across a roadway near Puxico at around 1 pm when she was struck by the vehicle.

Roark suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

  BOATING SAFETY COURSE TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

  A boating safety certification course has been scheduled for next month in Poplar Bluff.

The class will be held from 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday, March 25th at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E Headquarters on Highway 67 North.

Missouri law requires any person born after January 1st, 1984 to carry a boating safety certification card along with a picture ID anytime they operate a vessel, including personal watercrafts, on Missouri lakes.

There is no fee for the course; however, students are required to pre-register online, as the class will be limited to 30 people. Any student who successfully passes the course will be eligible to order the boating safety certification card, which costs $15.

If you would like more information or want to register for the course, go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol's website at mshp.dps.mo.gov.

  DATE SET FOR ROMBAUER CEMETERY ANNUAL BOARD MEETING

  The date has been set for the annual board meeting for Rombauer Cemetery.

The meeting will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 11th, at the Rombauer Baptist Church fellowship hall. Anyone interested in maintaining the cemetery is being urged to attend the meeting.

For additional information, call 785-1514.

  BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

  Route 142 in Butler County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway.

The road will be closed between County Roads 314 and 316.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 8 am to 1 pm.

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

WILLIAMSVILLE WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE FELONY

  A Williamsville woman has been taken into custody in Butler County on a felony charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Jana Drennan was arrested at around 4:30 pm Monday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Drennan is also facing a charge of possession of under 10 grams of marijuana. Following the arrest, she was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

  TWO PUPPIES REPORTEDLY THROWN FROM VEHICLE IN THE KENNETT AREA

  The Kennett Humane Department says that one puppy has been euthanized while another is in critical condition after they were thrown out of the window of a moving vehicle.

According to a post on the Humane Department’s Facebook page, a man travelling on the same road saw the incident happen and took the two dogs to the Kennett Veterinary Clinic.

No information was available about the vehicle that the puppies were in.

Anyone who has information about who was in possession of the two puppies is asked to call 573-888-4622.

  TEENAGER FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING ATV WRECK NEAR CHAFFEE

  A Chaffee teenager has been flown to a St. Louis hospital following an ATV wreck Sunday afternoon.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 3 pm Sunday near Chaffee. A 17 year old boy was driving an ATV which failed to negotiate a curve, struck a concrete culvert, and overturned, ejecting both the driver and a 16 year old passenger.

The 16 year old girl was seriously injured and taken by helicopter to Cardinal Glennon Hospital in St. Louis. The driver suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

  POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO HOLD MEETING TONIGHT

  The Poplar Bluff City Council will be holding a meeting tonight at the City Council Chambers.

Some of the items to be discussed include a proposed ordinance amending the Union Contract for the Fire Department as well as a review of a petition for the creation of a Sycamore Street Community Improvement District located on the east side of Poplar Bluff.

The council is also set to vote on multiple items including an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement between the City and MoDot relative to the Poplar Bluff Trails Project and an ordinance authorizing the disposal of antiquated equipment.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 pm tonight.

  NEW DAY MINISTRIES TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT THIS WEEK

  New Day Ministries in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event on Thursday from 3 to 5 pm.

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per person per family. New Day Ministries is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.

If you would like more information, contact Pastors Vernon and Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.

  STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

  Route OO in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.

The work zone will be located between Route 25 and County Road 307.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

  OVER THREE MONTH LONG PAVEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

  An over three month long pavement repair project is scheduled to begin today in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, eastbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 14 foot width restriction from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, June 1st.

The work zone is located from Route F to County Road 717. The on and off ramps at Route AD, One Mile Road, and Route 25 will also be impacted.

Monday, February 20, 2017

MAN KILLED AFTER HITTING TREE IN BUTLER COUTNY

  An area man died Saturday following a wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 78 year old Bobby Elledge, of Wappapello, ran off the side of Route M Saturday afternoon and struck a tree.

Elledge was later pronounced dead at a Kennett hospital.

MAN ARRESTED ON MANSLAUGHTER CHARGE FOLLOWING PEDESTRIAN DEATH

  An arrest has been made following to an incident last Friday where a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle near Puxico.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 39 year old Wesley Faries, of Puxico, was arrested Saturday on a felony charge of 1st degree involuntary manslaughter.

Faries was allegedly driving the vehicle that struck 21 year old Phillip Manning, of Sikeston, early Friday morning. Manning was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have also arrested 76 year old Garey Faries, of Puxico, on charges of making a false police report and hindering the prosecution of a felony.

  AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

  Authorities in New Madrid County are investigating a reported armed robbery at an area business.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, on Sunday deputies were dispatched to BJ’s Travel Center in Kewanee for a report of an armed robbery.

Investigators learned that a black male had entered the store shortly before 5 am, displayed a hand gun, and demanded money. The suspect also reportedly pointed the hand gun at employees during the incident.

The suspect left the business in an undetermined vehicle with no known direction of travel. The suspect is described as a black male, who was wearing a black hoodie, black tennis shoes, a mask, and jeans.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department at 573-748-2516.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR HARVIELL

  A Poplar Bluff man has been taken to an area hospital following a single vehicle wreck early Saturday morning.

According to authorities, 24 year old Joshua Gill was driving on County Road 330, near Harviell, when his vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a ditch and tree, and overturned.

Gill suffered serious injuries in the wreck was taken by Air Evac to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

  KENNETT MAN ALLEGEDLY ATTEMPTED TO FLEE FROM POLICE ON A BICYCLE

  A Kennett man has been taken into custody after he allegedly attempted to flee from police on Friday.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that officers had attempted to arrest 28 year old Cody Conder when he resisted the arrest and attempted to flee on a bicycle.

He was subdued and arrested for resisting arrest and an outstanding Dunklin County warrant for a probation violation on the original charge of stealing.

Following the arrest, Conder was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center.

  POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Friday night.

According to the Highway Patrol, 54 year old Keven Foster was arrested in Butler County on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and buprenorphine.

Following the arrest, Foster was held at the Butler County Jail.

  DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  Authorities in Stoddard County say a Dexter man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 28 year old Kelly Cagle Jr. was recently arrested on warrants for possession of a controlled substance and probation violation.

The bond on the controlled substance warrant was set at $20,000 cash.

Friday, February 17, 2017

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE IN STODDARD COUNTY

  A pedestrian has died after he was struck by a vehicle early this morning in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the incident occurred at around 12:20 am on Missouri Highway 51 near Puxico.

A vehicle was travelling south on Highway 51 when it struck 21 year old Phillip Manning, of Sikeston, who was reportedly in the roadway.

Manning was pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope.

  SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER WARRANT

  Authorities in Stoddard County say a Sikeston man has been taken into custody on an involuntary manslaughter warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 23 year old Trent McMillan was recently arrested on a warrant for two counts of 2nd degree involuntary manslaughter.

Additional details about the warrant were not available.

McMillan’s bond was set at $25,000 and officials say he has bonded out.

  BROSELEY MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY RESISTING ARREST CHARGE

  A Broseley man was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a felony resisting arrest charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Craig Matthews was arrested yesterday in Butler County on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing as well as misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Matthews was held in the Butler County Jail.

  VEHICLE SEARCH LEADS TO ARREST OF THREE IN KENNETT

  A vehicle search in Kennett earlier this week has resulted in the arrest of three people.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that officers had made contact with the driver of a truck on Tuesday after observing the vehicle exceeding the posted speed limit.

At that time officers noticed a strong odor of what appeared to be marijuana coming from the vehicle. The officers conducted a search and located narcotics as well as drug paraphernalia.

According to officials, John Bradley, Kay Chaffin, and Joe Walker, all of Kennett, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance and they were transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

  OUTDOORSMEN WITH A MISSION TO HOST 2ND ANNUAL WILD GAME DINNER

  Outdoorsmen with a mission will be hosting the 2nd Annual Wild Game Dinner next week in Poplar Bluff.

The event is scheduled for 5 to 9 pm on Saturday, February 25th, at the American Legion on Kanell Boulevard.

In addition to the dinner, there will also be raffles and a silent auction. Tickets are available for $12 for singles and $20 for couples. For more information, call 573-712-6606.

  2017 BLUFF CITY MALLARDS ANNUAL SPORTSMAN’S DINNER TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

  The 2017 Bluff City Mallards Annual Sportsman’s Dinner has been scheduled for this weekend.

The event will be held on Saturday, February 18th at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff. Doors will open at 5:30 pm, followed by dinner at 7. A live auction will then begin at 8 pm.

For more information contact Grant Collins at 573-718-9737.

Thursday, February 16, 2017

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

  Authorities say that two people were taken into custody Wednesday morning in Butler County on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Shaun Porch and 21 year old Zach Davis, both of Poplar Bluff, were each arrested shortly before 9 am Wednesday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following their arrest, both Porch and Davis were held at the Butler County Jail.

  TWO ST. LOUIS MEN FACING FIREARM CHARGE OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

  Two St. Louis men are facing a felony gun charge following their arrest Wednesday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 34 year old Derick Edwards and Markell McCottrel were each arrested shortly after 2 pm on a felony charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.

Both men were transported to the Wayne County Jail following their arrest.

  BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO GET A FLU VACCINE

  With flu spreading through many schools and workplaces in Southeast Missouri, the Butler County Health Department is reminding local residents to get a flu vaccine.

According to the Health Department, the CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses and everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine.

If you do end up with the flu, try to stay home from work, school, and errands if possible. Also cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

The Health Department says that washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Keeping your hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water.

More information is available on the Butler County Health Department website at ButlerCountyHealth.org.

  POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS TO GET FOUR DAY WEEKEND

  Students in Poplar Bluff are getting ready for a four day weekend, however unlike other area school closures, this is not due to the flu.

According to Superintendent Scott Dill, Poplar Bluff R-I Schools will not be in session on Friday for a teacher collaboration day. School will also be out on Monday for the Presidents’ Day holiday.

Dill says the regular class schedule will resume on Tuesday, February 21st.

  DATES SET FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD SCREENING AND KINDERGARTEN ENROLEMENT AT TWIN RIVERS

  The dates have been set for early childhood screening and kindergarten enrolment in the Twin Rivers R-10 School District.

The events will be held from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm on Tuesday, March 14th at the Fisk Middle School and Tuesday, March 21st at the Qulin Middle School.

Parents should bring their children, from three months to five years of age that are not yet in kindergarten, for the screening.

Children enrolling in Kindergarten will need three items proving residency. Each child should also have immunization records, a birth certificate, and social security card.

If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, call 328-4400 for Qulin or 967-3612 for Fisk.

  OVER TWO WEEK LONG REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

  An over two week long pavement repair project is underway on Interstate 55 in Southeast Missouri.

According to MoDot, Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 14-ft. width restriction as contractor crews perform the repairs two miles north and south of the Route 164 interchange.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Saturday, March 4th.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

NAMES RELEASED OF THREE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO DRUG SEIZURE

  Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities have released the names of three people that were arrested in connection to an investigation that included the arrest of Nicholas Kemp in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Corning Police Department, shortly before 3:30 pm on Sunday, officers with the Corning Police Department along with Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller and Clay County Deputies executed a search warrant which resulted in the discovery of 75 grams of crystal meth and three firearms, along with drug paraphernalia.

Kevin Hensley, Gregory Hampton, and Chelsey Elenburg, all of Corning, were arrested and face charges including simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, possession of methamphetamine with purpose to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

  RIPLEY COUNTY R-4 CANCELS CLASSES FOR THIS WEEK

  Sacred Heart is not the only school in our area that will be out today.

The Ripley County R-4 school district has cancelled classes for the rest of this week because of illness. Students will return to school on February 21st.

Earlier this week, Sacred Heart School in Poplar Bluff announced that they will be out today due to illness and flu.

  DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON BURGLARY AND ASSAULT WARRANT

  A Dexter man has been taken into custody on a burglary and assault warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Matthew Sherfield was recently arrested on a warrant for 1st degree burglary, 1st degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of possession of marijuana.

Sherfield’s bond was set at $15,000 and he reportedly remained in jail as of this morning.

  WRESTLER AND BAKETBALL PLAYER NAMED POPLAR BLUFF ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

  A wrestler and a basketball player have been chosen as the Poplar Bluff High School athletes of the month for January.

The Mules Booster Club has named wrestler Tanner Dunivan and basketball player Savannah Hicks for the honor.

Dunivan, a junior, has a 38-6 record. He placed first at the Rockwood Summit and SEMO Conference last month, and was a state qualifier for the past two years.

Hicks recently underwent open-heart surgery after a murmur was discovered during her sports physical, and returned to the court after just six weeks of recovery. She scored 15 points in eight games and maintained straight A's in the classroom.

  CLARKTON WOMAN IN CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  Authorities in Stoddard County tell KWOC News that a Southeast Missouri woman is in custody on a controlled substance warrant.

39 year old Laticia Ussery, of Clarkton, was recently arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, Ussery remained in jail as of this morning and her bond has been set at $20,000.

  MODOT CREWS TO BE IN WAYNE COUNTY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

  Route U in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located near the intersection of Route B and Route U.

Work is scheduled to be performed today from 7:30 am to 3 pm.

Tuesday February 14, 2017

MULTIPLE PEOPLE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SEIZURE OF OVER 300 GRAMS OF METHAMPHETAMINE IN POPLAR BLUFFA search of a Poplar Bluff motel room on Sunday led to the seizure of over 300 grams of methamphetamine.

KWOC News spoke with Detective Scott Phelps with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the seizure.

SCOTT PHELPS:

On Sunday morning at about 7:30 a.m. Officer Tubb with the Poplar Bluff Police Department was on the parking lot of Super 8 Motel checking for stolen vehicles. He observed a vehicle, ran the plate, and discovered that that plate on the vehicle had been recently reported stolen. He also observed a guy looking out the window of the hotel which was the window directly behind that car. A short time later Sergeant Ward arrived at Super 8 motel and at that time two men stepped out of the north exit door of the hotel and they were contacted by Officer Tubb and Sergeant Ward. After Officer Tubb followed Kemp back to the hotel room Kemp was in possession of a Crown Royal bag and when they got back to the room he laid it on the bed and covered it with a jacket. During Officer Tubb’s conversation with Kemp he informed him that he did have a weapon on him. at that time Officer Tubb took the weapon from him, rendered it safe, and then with a consent search looked in the Crown Royal bag that previously was on Kemp’s person and discovered 353.8 grams of methamphetamine. There was around four hundred and something dollars also. The narcotics seized by Officer Tubb have a street value of around $35,000. After the narcotics and gun were located by Officer Tubb, the room was secured at which time I applied for search warrant, received a search warrant, during the search warrant, additional paraphernalia was located in room. An interview I conducted with Kemp also led to another search warrant being served in Corning, Arkansas where an additional 70 grams or 75 grams of methamphetamine was located and an additional 3 weapons. Three other individuals are taken into custody in Arkansas. The subject arrested at the Super 8 Motel was Nicholas Kemp 35 years old from Neelyville, who was being charged with drug trafficking felony drug paraphernalia and unlawful use of a weapon he has $100,000 cash only bond. He's currently being held at the Butler County Justice Center.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley commended officers in Poplar Bluff as well as Northeast Arkansas for their roles in the investigation.

DANNY WHITELEY:

First of all I want to complement the two officers Tubb and Ward on doing a follow-up on what was just kind of a routine call out there. Had they not initiated this it would have not gotten anywhere. Myself and Detective Phelps contacted The Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller, and Arkansas Detective at Corning Sergeant Chris King. They were extremely helpful and cooperated extremely well with us as we went to Arkansas, they can talk to you about the search warrant down there, but when we have drugs trafficking between Poplar Bluff, Corning, Jonesboro, St Louis, and so forth if you don't have people that are willing to throw in and help you it's going to be a problem for everybody. I just can't say enough good things about how we were received down there and the professionalism in those two departments. As I've said in the past you may sneak around up here in Poplar Bluff for a while but we know who the majority of you are, we will come and get you, we will put you in prison. So if you choose to come to Poplar Bluff do so at your own risk.

We have spoken with Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller who says that more arrests are expected with this case.

MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING ALLEGED BEATING IN CLAY COUNTY Authorities in Clay County say a man has been arrested in connection to an alleged beating last week.

According to Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller, On February 6th, Clay County Deputies responded to a caller who stated that she had been taken against her will and beaten. The victim advised officers that her attacker had passed out and she was able to get away and use a neighbor’s phone.

Deputies later located 33 year old Joshua Hurte, of Nimmons. Hurte reportedly became very aggressive and disorderly and was taken into custody.

Hurte is being charged with 2nd degree domestic battery, 1st degree false imprisonment, and two counts of 1st degree terroristic threatening. His bond was set at $100,000.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL TO MISS ADDITIONAL DAYS THIS WEEK DUE TO ILLNESS Illness is once again running through Southeast Missouri schools and Sacred Heart in Poplar Bluff has announced they will have to miss additional days this week.

According to a post on the school’s Facebook page, more students were out Monday due to illness and flu than they had last week.

Officials say that Sacred Heart Preschool through 8th grade will not be in session today or Wednesday. As of right now, classes are set to resume on Thursday.

TWO CHARGED WITH FELONY MURDER IN CONNECTION TO ONE YEAR OLD’S DEATH Two people have been charged with felony murder in connection to the investigation of a one year old child’s death.

According to Sergeant Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, shortly before 2 pm on Sunday, Sikeston DPS received a call of a one year old child not breathing.

Upon arrival, first responders found the boy unresponsive and not breathing. They immediately began CPR and transported him to the emergency room where he was pronounced dead.

Medical staff reportedly located injuries and bruising consistent with child abuse on the child’s body along with some type of foreign substance inside the child’s mouth.

The mother, 23 year old Kayla Williamson, of Sikeston, and her boyfriend, 31 year old Louis Hollis, also of Sikeston, have been arrested and charged with child abuse, endangering the welfare of a child, and felony murder through Scott County circuit court.

ARRESTS MADE IN CONNECTION TO CARUTHERSVILLE CLUB SHOOTING Two arrests have been made in connection to a weekend shooting that left one person dead in Caruthersville.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a total of six people were shot and one injured during the incident early Sunday morning at Club Envy. Later on Sunday, Freddie Rodgers, Jr., succumbed to injuries and was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

On Monday, authorities arrested Travis Ware II (the second). He has been charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action.

Authorities have also arrested Anton Jones in connection to the shooting.

DELAYS SET FOR THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 25 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews trim trees along the roadway.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between County Road 406 and County Road 402.

Weather permitting; work will take place today through Thursday from 7 am to 3:30 pm, daily.

Monday February 13, 2017

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SUSPICIOUS FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF An investigation has been started following what’s been called a suspicious fire in Poplar Bluff.

The fire broke out Saturday morning at a house on Main Street.

The residence was unoccupied at the time of the fire, which was extinguished later that day.

TENNESSEE TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR DONIPHAN A Tennessee teenager has been transported to a Memphis hospital following a wreck Friday afternoon near Doniphan.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle, driven by 42 year old Charles Johnson, of Rector, allegedly crossed the center line of Highway E in Ripley County and struck another vehicle head on.

A 17 year old female passenger in the second vehicle suffered serious injuries and was taken by Air Medical to a Memphis hospital.

Johnson received minor injuries in the wreck while the driver of the second vehicle had moderate injuries. They were both transported to area hospitals.

MULTIPLE PEOPLE SHOT AT CLUB IN CARUTHERSVILLE Multiple people were shot early Sunday morning at a business in Caruthersville.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that five people were shot and one person was injured in the altercation at Club Envy.

The victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment of their injuries; their current conditions were not available.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is assisting the Caruthersville Police Department and the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.

Anyone who has information related to this shooting is asked to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500.

PATTERSON WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING WEEKEND ARREST A weekend arrest in Wayne County has resulted in a Patterson woman facing a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Cindy Harmon was arrested early Saturday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. Harmon is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

She was transported to the Wayne County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

ADVANCE MAN SUFFERES SERIOUS INJURIES AFTER HITTING TREE IN STODDARD COUNTY An Advance man received serious injuries early Sunday morning following a wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 22 year old Ethan Manuel’s vehicle ran off the side of Route K at around 2:45 am Sunday morning and hit a tree.

Manuel was seriously injured and taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO FRAUD INVESTIGATION IN POPLAR BLUFF Authorities in Poplar Bluff are searching for an area man in connection to a fraud investigation.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News that 41 year old William Taylor, of Poplar Bluff, is responsible for several fraud cases involving credit and debit card usage and has two active warrants for his arrest.

Anyone with information on Taylor’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

Friday, February 10, 2017

FLU CAUSES CLOSURE OF MORE SCHOOLS IN BUTLER COUNTY Another school in Butler County will not have classes today due to illness.

According to a post on the Sacred Heart School Facebook page, about a quarter of the school has been out due to flu and other illnesses, so classes, including preschool, have been cancelled for Friday.

Other area schools that have had cancellations include Twin Rivers, Neelyville, and Clarkton.

  ELDERLY VICTIM SEVERELY BEATEN IN WAYNE COUNTY Authorities in Wayne County are seeking more information following an assault in Wayne County.

Officials with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that an assault and burglary occurred early Wednesday morning in the Green Tree Area on County Road 455.

An elderly victim was reportedly beaten pretty severely.

Officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to call 573-224-3319.

  WAYNE COUNTY AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING STRING OF THEFTS An investigation is underway in connection to a string of thefts in the Wayne County.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the thefts have occurred in the Green tree area out past Black River Retreat. On Tuesday, a vehicle was also stolen near the county line. The vehicle is described as a 2016 white Dodge Journey with a plate number of WG9-L0Z.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Department at 573-224-3319.

  FORMER SIKESTON PUBLIC SAFETY CHIEF CONFIRMED AS DIRECTOR OF THE MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY The former chief of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety has been confirmed for a state post.

Drew Juden was confirmed Thursday by the Missouri Senate as the director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Juden was nominated for the position by Governor Eric Greitens.

Juden was one of five of Greiten’s cabinet appointees confirmed by the Senate on Thursday.

  DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES Authorities in Ripley County have taken a Doniphan man into custody on methamphetamine and marijuana charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Zachary Bryeans was arrested Thursday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Bryeans is also facing charges of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

He also reportedly had warrants out of Butler and Ripley Counties.

Following the arrest, he was held at the Doniphan City jail.

  METHAMPHETAMINE FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS A man is facing charges following a traffic stop in Northeast Arkansas.

According to Greene County Sheriff David Carter, during a recent traffic stop a deputy found a small bag of crystal methamphetamine in the vehicle.

A man in the vehicle, identified as Kenneth Pullen, claimed that it was his. Pullen was taken to the Greene County Jail for possession of crystal methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Thursday, February 9, 2017

TWIN RIVERS TO BE OUT FOR REST OF THIS WEEK DUE TO FLU Students at Twin Rivers are joining some other students in Southeast Missouri in a getting a long weekend.

Classes at all three schools in the Twin Rivers school district will be out of session for the rest of this week due to the flu. Clarkton schools will also be out for the rest of the week as well.

Students at Neelyville will miss class today; however a post on the school district’s Facebook page says that school will be in session on Friday.

  TWO INJURED, ONE FACING CHARGES, FOLLOWING CHASE WITH AUTHORITIES Two people were injured following a chase with authorities on Tuesday.

According to the Morehouse Police Department, police were alerted by a juvenile’s mother that her 14 year old child had stormed out of the house and was going to meet Justin Mattison, who is a registered sex offender and is currently on probation with a special condition of no contact with any non-related females under the age of 16.

Authorities located Mattison’s vehicle and attempted to pull him over, however he failed to yield and led officers on a pursuit which continued from Morehouse through Dexter, Bloomfield, and Circle City.

The pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed into a drainage ditch in New Madrid County.

Mattison and the juvenile passenger were both taken to an area hospital for their injuries.

Mattison has been charged with 1st degree assault, 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child, and resisting arrest for a felony. He is currently being held in the Pemiscot County Jail with a $75,000 cash only bond.

  TWO MEN FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING INCIDENT WHERE SHOTS WERE FIRED Two men are facing charges following an incident last week in Kennett.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that on the afternoon of February 1st, officers were dispatched in reference to shots being fired. Officers learned that a fight had taken place that included Marquel Rhines and Dequion Williams shooting at three unknown males.

Rhines and Williams later turned themselves into the Kennett Police Department and were transported to the Dunklin County Jail on the charges of unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action.

  PHONE SCAM REPORTED IN MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES Ozark Border Electric Cooperative says they have been notified of a scam in the Malden and Campbell area along with the Doniphan area.

There have been recent reports of customers receiving calls from individuals impersonating Ozark Border, stating they have not paid their electric bill and attempting to collect payment for their unpaid bill over the phone.

According to a post on the company’s Facebook page, the information customers are given from the impersonators, was not and is not being given to them from Ozark Border employees, nor has their system been hacked.

Anybody who receives this phone call is reminded to not provide the individuals with any personal information and should call Ozark Border immediately at 573-785-4631.

  OVER 600 POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AWARDED FOR ATTENDANCE AND GRADES Hundreds of Poplar Bluff High School students were rewarded last week for not missing class and keeping their grades up.

According to officials, over 600 students have earned reward cards for having stellar attendance, behavior and grades.

Students were issued gold, silver, or bronze punch cards for maintaining between 95 and 98 percent attendance, an 8.0 to 10.25 GPA, and no discipline resulting in suspension or no disciplinary issues altogether.

The rewards included a free cookie provided by Chartwells, plus a game admission, and dance pass.

  EDGE RUT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Route 114 in Stoddard County is being reduced to one lane through next week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform edge rut repairs.

The work zone is located from Route 25 to County Road 717.

Weather permitting, work will continue from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily through Friday, February 17th.

Wednesday February 8, 2017

THREE POUNDS OF MARIJUANA SEIZED DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN BUTLER COUNTYMultiple pounds of marijuana were seized during a recent traffic stop in Butler County.

Few details about the bust have been released, but Missouri State Highway Patrol officials tell KWOC News that troopers seized three pounds of processed marijuana, two pounds of marijuana laced edibles, one firearm, and $7,000 in cash during the stop.

We will keep following this story and bring you more information when it becomes available.

TRAIN COLLIDES WITH SEMI IN STODDARD COUNTY A train reportedly collided with a semi-truck Tuesday in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, the incident occurred on Highway 25 near Bernie.

Nobody was injured in connection to the collision.

TREE TRIMMING TO CAUSE DELAYS IN WAYNE AND REYNOLDS COUNTIES Missouri Department of Transportation officials say that a week and half long tree trimming project could cause delays in Wayne and Reynolds Counties.

Route 34 in both counties will be reduced to one lane beginning today as MoDot crews perform the tree trimming from the Route HH Spur to Route 49.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday, February 17th.

CLARKTON SCHOOLS TO BE OUT AGAIN TODAY Students in Clarkton will be missing another day of school.

The Clarkton School District has cancelled classes for Wednesday following a flu outbreak.

Students were let out early on Monday and classes were also cancelled on Tuesday due to the illness.

School has also been closed for the Neelyville R-4 for today and Thursday. According to a post on the Neelyville School District Facebook page, Parent/Teacher conferences have also been postponed until Thursday, February 16th.

DISTRACTED DRIVER HITS DEXTER PATROL VEHICLE Dexter police are reminding motorists to not use their cell phone while driving following an incident last week involving a patrol vehicle.

According to the Dexter Police Department, a patrol vehicle was struck from behind while stopped at stoplight on Friday.

Officials say the driver of the vehicle who struck the patrol car was distracted by his cell phone at the time of the accident. There was no one seriously hurt as a result of the crash.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY VEHICLE ON PEMISCOT COUNTY ROADWAY A Portageville man was injured after being hit by a vehicle Tuesday night in Pemiscot County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the incident occurred shortly after 9 pm on Route A near Wardell.

A vehicle was attempting to pass another vehicle when it struck 34 year old James Rudd, who was reportedly standing in the roadway. Rudd suffered serious injuries and was taken by Life Flight to an area hospital.

MODOT CREWS TO BEGIN REPAIR PROJECT TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Route 153 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 114 to Route A.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place today through Friday, February 17th from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily.

Tuesday February 7, 2017

BOONVILLE WOMAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS INCARCERATION FOR CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDERA Southeast Missouri woman was sentenced on Monday on a murder related charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, Heather Cummings, of Boonville, has entered a guilty plea for conspiracy to commit murder. Cummings ex-husband, David Phelps, of Hayti, was murdered in September of 2015.

Cummings was sentenced to 15 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

TWO ARRESTED FOR COCAINE AND FIREARM CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY Two people were taken into custody early this morning in Butler County on felony drug and gun charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 33 year old Brian Gibbs of Brush Creek, Tennessee, and 25 year old Sandra Carter, of Springfield, were arrested shortly before 12:30 this morning.

Both are facing felony charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance for cocaine and marijuana.

CHANCES OF SEVERE WEATHER CONTINUE TODAY FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Most of Southeast Missouri was under a Severe Thunderstorm watch for most of the overnight; however weather officials say that there is still a chance for severe weather today.

The watch ended at five am, and a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service says that thunderstorms will still be possible through this evening.

A few storms could become severe, mainly in the morning, with large hail and damaging winds being the primary hazards. Officials say that a weak tornado or two is not out of the question.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ERIC GREITENS SPEAKS ON RIGHT TO WORK PASSAGE New Missouri Governor Eric Greitens was in Poplar Bluff on Monday to trumpet his signing of Right to Work legislation for the state.

We spoke with Greitens during his stop and he said the legislation will lead to more jobs.

ERIC GREITENS:

We were so proud to be right back down here in Poplar Bluff to make Missouri the 28th right to work state for a very simple reason, it's going to lead to more jobs for our people. You know, I traveled all over the state of Missouri and people said we need to have a governor who's going to fight for us. We went to Jefferson City and we took the fight to Jefferson City.

Right at the beginning we said we’re done with politics as usual, we're going to fight for the people and today was a major milestone because this is going to lead to more jobs. One of the key points that I made here is that people are sick of having to watch their neighbors get in a truck and drive across the border to Arkansas, or drive across the border to Tennessee to get a quality job.

Those days are over, Missouri is open for business. This is just the beginning we're going to continue to fight for the people of Missouri every single day and our mission is really clear it's more jobs and higher pay for the people of Missouri.

And we're going to continue to fight for when it comes of tort reform, reducing regulations on businesses so that we can bring more quality jobs in, welfare reform, we’re fighting for the people of Missouri they sent me to Jefferson City to fight for them and that's exactly what we're going to do.

MAYNARD WOMAN DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN RANDOLPH COUNTY A Maynard woman has died following a single vehicle wreck Sunday night.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that 58 year old Cynthia Kelso was driving on Highway 328 in Randolph County when her vehicle ran off the road, hit a tree, and overturned.

Kelso was pronounced dead at the scene.

WOMAN HIT DURING SHOOTING INCIDENT IN CHARLESTON Two men have been arrested following a shooting incident over the weekend in Charleston.

According to authorities, 26 year old Meshaw Daniels, of Haywood City, and 42 year old Rodney Chappell, of Charleston, allegedly exchanged gunfire during an altercation on Saturday. One of the shots hit a woman, who was taken to an area hospital in serious but stable condition.

Daniels and Chappell were taken into custody and are facing charges including 1st degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and armed criminal action.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOL TO BE CLOSED TODAY DUE TO FLU OUTBREAK A flu outbreak has caused the closure of a school district in Dunklin County.

Students were let out early on Monday at the Clarkton School District and classes have been cancelled for today due to the illness.

There are just over 300 students at the school, and over 70 were reportedly absent on Monday.

Monday February 6, 2017

MISSOURI GOVERNOR TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF TODAYNew Missouri Governor Eric Greitens is scheduled to make an appearance today at a Poplar Bluff business.

Greitens will be at Briggs and Stratton this morning at 11:30 AM to discuss right to work legislation that has been approved by the Missouri congress.

The legislation that was approved last week would ban mandatory union fees and Greitens has promised he would sign the bill. If the Governor does sign it, Missouri will become the 28th state to adopt right to work laws.

AUTHORITIES ARREST VAN BUREN RESIDENT FOR POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE A controlled substance arrest was made early Sunday morning in Carter County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 35 year old Laura Kennedy was arrested shortly before 1 am Sunday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Kennedy is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and was taken to the Carter County Jail on a 12 hour hold.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEEKING INFORMATION ABOUT SEX OFFENDER Authorities in Poplar Bluff are seeking information about a sex offender.

According to a post on the Poplar Bluff Police Department Facebook page, police are seeking information about the whereabouts of Milton “Roy” Taylor, of Poplar Bluff.

Taylor is listed as a non-compliant sex offender and anyone with information on his location is asked to contact law enforcement.

A picture of Taylor is available on the KWOC Facebook page.

SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE FOR TONIGHT AND TUESDAY Weather officials are warning of possible severe weather in Southeast Missouri tonight and on Tuesday.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible this evening and overnight, with large hail being the primary hazard. The outlook says that damaging winds and a brief tornado are not out of the question.

The storms are expected to become more widespread on Tuesday with damaging winds becoming the primary hazard. Large hail and a tornado will also be possible.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING APPARENT MURDER/SUICIDE IN PARAGOULD Two people are dead following what appears to be a murder suicide in Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the Paragould Police Department tell KWOC News that Paragould 9-1-1 received a call of a domestic incident on Saturday where two shots were fired.

Inside the residence, officers found two deceased parties.

Officials say that from initial interviews and evidence at the scene it appears to have been a murder/suicide, but this will not be confirmed until reports are received from the Medical Examiner’s Office with the State Crime Lab in Little Rock.

The incident is still under investigation.

MOREHOUSE MAN ARRESTED ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE A Morehouse man is facing a felony methamphetamine charge following his arrest Saturday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Douglas Kitchen was taken into custody in New Madrid County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Kitchen is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, he was transported to the New Madrid County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

K-9 BODY ARMOR DONATED TO CARTER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE A law enforcement officer in Carter County will now have more protection thanks to an anonymous donor.

Carter County Sheriff Richard Stephens tells KWOC News that K-9 Lobo has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Incorporated.

Stephens say the vest was sponsored by an anonymous donor.

ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY Route K in Pemiscot County will be temporarily closed so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway.

MoDot officials say that Route K will be closed today from 7 am to 3:30 pm between Route A and County Road 283.

Friday, February 3, 2017

PARMA MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES A Parma man was taken into custody Thursday night in Stoddard County on methamphetamine and marijuana charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 24 year old Devin Dinkins was arrested shortly before 8:30 pm Thursday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dinkins is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and driving while intoxicated – drugs.

  SIKESTON WOMAN ARRESED FOR XANAX A Sikeston woman is facing a felony charge following her arrest Thursday afternoon.

According to authorities, 33 year old Rebecca Powell was arrested shortly after 2 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - xanax.

She is also facing other charges including unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

  DEXTER POLICE DEPARTMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN SEAT BELT MOBILIZATION THIS MONTH The Dexter Police Department has announced they will be participating in a seat belt mobilization effort later this month.

The Dexter PD will be joining with statewide law enforcement on February 16th for an aggressive “Click It or Ticket” mobilization to get more motorists to buckle up.

More information is available online at www.SaveMoLives.com.

  DATE SET FOR 2017 BLUFF CITY MALLARDS ANNUAL SPORTSMAN’S DINNER Officials have set the date for the 2017 Bluff City Mallards Annual Sportsman’s Dinner.

The event will be held on Saturday, February 18th at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff. Doors will open at 5:30 pm, followed by dinner at 7. A live auction will then begin at 8 pm.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact Grant Collins at 573-718-9737.

  ZALMA GENERAL BAPTIST CHURCH TO HOST DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION The Zalma General Baptist Church has announced they will be hosting their 11th annual dinner and silent auction next month.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 4th at the Church Gym. Both the dinner and silent auction will begin at 3:30 pm.

All fundraiser proceeds from the event will go to the Church’s Special Needs Fund, which was able to help 793 families last year by hosting five mobile pantries.

For more information, contact Patti Shelby at 573-225-3615.

  CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TODAY Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County today for a project on Route M.

Officials say that Route M will be closed from 8 am to noon so crews can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

The work zone will be located from County Road 463 to just east of County Road 448.

Thursday, February 2, 2017

OVER 10 ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Over 10 people were arrested over a six hour stretch Wednesday morning in Dunklin County.

According to arrest reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 13 total people were arrested from 8 am to 2 pm on felony controlled substance warrants out of Dunklin County.

10 of the arrestees were from Kennett, the other three were from Hornersville, Senath, or Clarkton.

  PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY VEHICLE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle Wednesday afternoon near the Missouri/Arkansas state line.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on US 412 in Dunklin County when 61 year old Richard Taylor, of Paragould, was struck by the mirror of a vehicle.

Taylor suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Paragould hospital.

  POPLAR BLUFF POM SQUAD TO HOLD DANCE CAMP THIS MONTH The Poplar Bluff Pom Squad will be holding a dance camp later this month.

The camp has been scheduled for Saturday, February 18th from 11 am to 1 pm at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center Gymnasium. A performance will follow on Monday, February 20th at the Lady Mules junior varsity basketball game.

The camp is for girls in preschool through 6th grade and will cost $25. Registration will be held on Monday, February 6th, from 5 to 7 pm in the Kindergarten Center Lobby.

  POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on multiple felony controlled substance charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 53 year old Charles Berry was arrested Wednesday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and tramadol.

Berry is also facing felony charges of driving while intoxicated and driving while suspended.

Following the arrest, he was transported to the Butler County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

  ALMOST MONTH LONG PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY Northbound I-155 in Pemiscot County is being reduced with a 14-foot width restriction for most of the month so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway affected is located from the Route U interchange to the I-55 north and southbound ramps.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6:30 am to 6 pm daily, through Saturday, February 25.

  DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Route V in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

The work zone is located between County Road 617 and County Road 600.

Work will take place from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS PLACED ON LOCKDOWN Two Poplar Bluff Schools were placed on lockdown Tuesday morning.

KWOC News spoke with Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill who said that the lockdown was due to a domestic dispute.

“Early on Tuesday morning I had a report from the Director of the Early Childhood Center that we had an incident, a domestic dispute, in which allegedly a weapon had been brandished. And so we immediately put that facility on lockdown. We then became aware that there was a family connection to the middle school and so as a precautionary measure we put that facility on lockdown as well.

We worked very closely with Poplar Bluff PD and with County. They very quickly and efficiently tracked the individual down, got him into custody, and we resumed normal operations at those facilities.

I want to stress that at no time was there a direct threat to our kids or our teachers, but that we will always be overly cautious, we will do whatever is necessary to protect our kids.

We have had a couple situations in the last week that resulted from domestic situations that carried on to school property. I want to remind people I recognize that everyone has problems and everyone has disputes in their lives, but when you bring those on to school property a bad day turns into a terrible day very quickly.

There's no place for it on school property and we will take the steps we need to protect our kids and we will do whatever is necessary to keep our school safe.”

  STUDENT ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO POST ON FACEBOOK A teenager has been arrested in connection to a possible threat posted on Facebook.

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on Monday his department was contacted by the South Pemiscot School Superintendent about a student posting on his Facebook page a possible threat toward the school.

An investigation was conducted and authorities arrested a 19 year old male student at South Pemiscot High School and charged him with making a terrorist threat in the first degree. The name of the student was not released.

Stanfield says a report has been filed with the Pemiscot County Prosecuting Attorney for review of formal charges.

  ARRESTS MADE IN CONNECTION TO STORAGE SHED BURGLARIES Authorities in East Prairie say two arrests have been made in connection to recent storage shed burglaries.

According to the East Prairie Police Department, over the past few weeks there has been a rash of burglaries involving storage sheds. Officials say that over $30,000 worth of property has been reported stolen

On January 30th, officials received an anonymous tip that led to the discovery of numerous reported stolen items.

Authorities arrested 37 year old Leslie Henderson, of East Prairie, for stealing and hindering prosecution of a felony. 41 year old Michael Metz, of East Prairie, was also arrested and charged with stealing and possession of burglary tools.

Officials say the case is still under investigation and items are still being recovered.

  TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY Two people were recently taken into custody in Stoddard County on controlled substance warrants.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, both 49 year old Timmy Glass, of Malden, and 37 year old Cassey Bryan, of Bernie, were arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance. Officials did not say if the two arrests were connected.

Their bonds were each set at $12,500 cash only, and they both remained in jail as of this morning.

  PIPE REPLACEMENT SET FOR TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY Route P in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between Route E and County Road 504.

Officials say work will be performed today from 8 am to 2 pm.

  INTERSTATE REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Southbound I-55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

MoDot officials say the work zone will be located between Mile Markers 34 and 32.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Friday, February 10th from 8 am to 4 pm daily.

Tuesday January 31, 2017

STODDARD COUNTY JURY FINDS MAN GUILTY ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES  

A man has been found guilty by a Stoddard County jury on child pornography charges.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russ Oliver, Verl Cato, of Dexter, was found guilty Monday of all counts of possession of child pornography.

Cato had been arrested by the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department in July of 2012.

DEXTER POLICE INVESTIGATING COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY

Authorities in Dexter are investigating the use of counterfeit currency.

According to the Dexter Police Department, the fake currency was recently passed at a local business.

Police say they have spoken with a man in connection to the investigation; however no further details were made available.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY

A week long culvert pipe replacement project is underway in Carter County.

Route DD in Carter County will be closed this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert pipe beneath the roadway.

The work zone is located from Route A to the end of state maintenance.

Work will take place from 8 am to 3 pm daily through Friday.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO STABBING DEATH

An arrest has been made in connection to a stabbing death in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, 38 year old Bennie Holliman, of Blytheville, was stabbed in the neck on Sunday night. He later died at an area hospital.

Authorities say a juvenile has been taken into custody in connection to the incident. The name of the juvenile was not released.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTED BY STATE AGENCY

A Poplar Bluff school has been highlighted in a recent newsletter published by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Lake Road Elementary was selected as the Southeast Region's success story in the "Positive Focus" quarterly newsletter.

The winter publication highlights nine schools in the state that have experienced notable results applying the Schoolwide Positive Behavior Support system, which aims to create and maintain an effective learning environment.

A link to the newsletter is available on our website.

http://pbismissouri.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/12-MOSWPBS-Positive-Focus_Winter-2017-.pdf.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route A in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge to be worked on is located between County Road 525 and County Road 526.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

Monday, January 30, 2017

ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED, IN WEEKEND WRECK NEAR BERNIE One person has died and three others are injured in connection to a wreck Saturday evening near Bernie.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 25 at around 6:30 pm Saturday.

A vehicle, driven by 30 year old Jordan Evans, of Imperial, reportedly crossed the center line of the highway and struck another vehicle head on. The second vehicle was then hit from behind by a third vehicle.

Evans was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle, 40 year old Kristy Steward, of Dexter, was seriously injured and flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital. Two people in the third vehicle suffered minor injuries.

  ADDITIONAL DETAILS RELEASED ABOUT RIPLEY COUNTY MURDER/SUICIDE Updating a story we brought to you on Friday, additional details have been released about the alleged murder suicide that occurred in Ripley County.

According to authorities, 32 year old Laura Coleman allegedly shot and killed her two children, Maycie and Gunner. Coleman then shot herself. Their bodies were found on Thursday in Coleman’s home.

The Current River Major Case Squad was activated to investigate the incident.

  WOMAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY METH CHARGE A Fredericktown woman is facing multiple charges following her arrest Friday night in Butler County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 28 year old Virginia Sebastian was arrested on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance in a jail.

Sebastian also reportedly had a warrant from Butler County along with the Poplar Bluff, Williamsville, and Fredericktown Police Departments.

She was held in the Butler County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

  KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE METHAMPHETAMINE RELATED CHARGES Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a Kennett man on multiple meth related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Darius Shavers was taken into custody Friday on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia.

Shavers was also arrested on a felony charge of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

Following the arrest, he was held in the Dunklin County Jail.

  REGISTRATION TO BE HELD TODAY AND TOMORROW FOR POPLAR BLUFF YOUTH WRESTLING Registration has been scheduled for the upcoming Poplar Bluff youth wrestling season.

According to officials, registration will be held from 6 to 7:30 pm both tonight and tomorrow night at the Poplar Bluff High School.

The league is open for students age 6 to 12 in Kindergarten through 6th grade.

A non refundable $35 fee and parent or guardian signature will be required at the time of registration.

  CONSERVATION OFFICIALS CONFIRM THAT A MOUNTAIN LION HAS BEEN IN SHANNON COUNTY Conservation officials have confirmed to KWOC News that a Mountain Lion has been in Southeast Missouri.

The Missouri Department of Conservation recently received DNA results from a confirmed female mountain lion in Shannon County. This is the first definitive confirmation of a female mountain lion being present in Missouri since 1994.

Officials say that the risk of a mountain lion attack in Missouri remains highly unlikely. No mountain lion attack on a human has ever been recorded in the state.

  WEEK LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.

The work zone is located from Business 60 to Route E.

Work is scheduled to take place today through Friday from 7 am to 3:30 pm, daily.

  PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD Route B in Pemiscot County will be temporarily closed so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway.

According to officials, Route B will be closed both today and tomorrow from 7 am to 3:30 pm. The work zone is located between Route 412 and Route K.

Friday, January 27, 2017

THREE FOUND DEAD IN RIPLEY COUNTY HOME Three people were found dead Thursday in a Ripley County home.

According to authorities, the body of 32 year old Laura Coleman was found Thursday afternoon. Coleman’s two children were also found dead.

A cause for the deaths has not been released; however authorities believe it to be a murder-suicide.

  SKYWARN SPOTTER TRAINING CLASS TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF The National Weather Service will be hosting a Skywarn Spotter Training class next month in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say the class is free of charge and open to anyone who has an interest in severe weather and/or public service. The objective of the training is to provide the knowledge to identify and report key severe weather features.

The class in Poplar Bluff will be held at 6 pm on Thursday, February 23rd, at the Black River Coliseum.

Registration is required and you can register online at www.weather.gov/pah/spottertraining.

  METH ARREST MADE IN GREENE COUNTY Officials in Greene County say a man was taken into custody earlier this week on a meth charge.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Greene County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Jimmy Haynes Wednesday morning for possession of crystal methamphetamine.

Haynes was also arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

  EARTHQUAKE HITS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Southeast Missouri was hit by an earthquake on Thursday.

The United State Geological Survey says the 2.1 magnitude earthquake was located east northeast of Steele and had a depth of over four and a half miles.

The quake was recorded at 4:07 pm Thursday afternoon.

  ROUTE TT IN BUTLER COUNTY TO BE CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Route TT in Butler County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a pipe under the roadway.

The work zone will be located from Route PP to County Road 451.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 8 am to 3 pm.

  ROAD CLOSURE SET FOR TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY Route H in Pemiscot County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

Officials say that Route H will be closed from 7 am to 3:30 pm between County Road 530 and Route 164.

Thursday January 26, 2017

THREE INJURED IN WRECK IN STODDARD COUNTYThree people were injured, one seriously, in a wreck Wednesday evening in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a vehicle, driven by 21 year old Austin Battles, of Bloomfield, reportedly failed to yield and struck another vehicle in the side. The wreck occurred in the Dudley area.

Battles was seriously injured in the wreck and taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital. A passenger in the second vehicle had moderate injuries, while the driver suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to an area hospital.

BUTLER COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TO HOST OPEN HOUSE TODAY Butler County Emergency Management officials have announced that an open house will be held today.

The event will begin at 10 am on the ground floor of the Butler-Ripley County Juvenile Justice Center.

Officials say the open house will be available until 2 pm.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS IN STODDARD COUNTY Route ZZ in Stoddard County is being reduced to one lane today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.

The work zone is located between County Roads 667 and 624.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 3:30 pm, both today and tomorrow.

ARRESTS MADE FOLLOWING MULTIPLE VEHICLE PURSUITS IN SIKESTON A tip about possible criminal activity led to multiple vehicle pursuits in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, officials received information about subjects at Lincoln Park that were possibly engaged in criminal activity.

Several officers responded and located two vehicles leaving the area. The two vehicles left in separate directions and immediately began fleeing from police.

One of the vehicles was chased into a cotton field and two men abandoned the car. They were apprehended after a short foot chase.

Two other offenders were taken into custody when their vehicle came to a stop in an area parking lot.

Sikeston officers reportedly located firearms, illegal narcotics, and cash. The names of the arrestees have not been released.

FEDERAL ARREST WARRANT EXECUTED IN PORTAGEVILLE Officials with multiple agencies were in Portageville on Tuesday to execute a federal arrest warrant.

Portageville Police Chief Ronnie Adams tells KWOC News that 36 year old Torry Saxton was arrested on a warrant for the charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in relation to drug trafficking crimes.

The warrant stems from a traffic stop on January 2nd. During the investigation of the traffic stop, a firearm and approximately 1.1 pounds of marijuana were located inside the vehicle.

Officers searched Saxton’s residence and located an additional firearm and a large amount of currency.

The Portageville Police Department, New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, agents with the SEMO Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were involved in executing the arrest warrant.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY Route MM in Dunklin County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

The work zone will be located between Route J and County Road 118

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.