Local News
JEFF LANE NEWS - Do Not Delete
en-us
PERSONAL ISSUES ON DISPLAY DURING RICHMOND COMMON COUNCIL MEETING
/local-news/0d0e182520c77b8b56bb06f84cb62d9a
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500
/local-news/0d0e182520c77b8b56bb06f84cb62d9a
(Richmond, IN)--Members of Richmond Common Council got into a bit of a discord Monday night over whether or not to fund efficiency studies. That discussion evolved and brought a clear council division to the forefront. The efficiency study was approved by a 6-3 vote, but then council tried and failed to decide whether or not to begin studies of the police or fire department first. After some of council’s comments appeared to turn personal, Jerry Purcell, who is active on social media, said this: "Some people feel that there are some personal issues going on. I will assure that, in my case, there is not." Dr. Lucinda Wright responded with this: "I'm going to be honest with you. I'm going to be honest with you. What I see...I'm embarrassed for people to even know that I sit on this city council." Wright then added this: "Stay your behinds off of Facebook. Act like adults and stop acting like children. I'm sick and tired of it. I've had it up to here with the unprofessionalism I see with this city council." Further discussions on the study that brought the discourse to the forefront will be held over the next couple of weeks.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--Members of Richmond Common Council got into a bit of a discord Monday night over whether or not to fund efficiency studies. That discussion evolved and brought a clear council division to the forefront. The efficiency study was approved by a 6-3 vote, but then council tried and failed to decide whether or not to begin studies of the police or fire department first. After some of council’s comments appeared to turn personal, Jerry Purcell, who is active on social media, said this: "Some people feel that there are some personal issues going on. I will assure that, in my case, there is not." Dr. Lucinda Wright responded with this: "I'm going to be honest with you. I'm going to be honest with you. What I see...I'm embarrassed for people to even know that I sit on this city council." Wright then added this: "Stay your behinds off of Facebook. Act like adults and stop acting like children. I'm sick and tired of it. I've had it up to here with the unprofessionalism I see with this city council." Further discussions on the study that brought the discourse to the forefront will be held over the next couple of weeks.
]]>
ARSONIST TARGETS YOUNG GIRL'S 4-H PROJECT
/local-news/91f2c617a065e6755b01d3dbe0acafdb
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:58:00 -0500
/local-news/91f2c617a065e6755b01d3dbe0acafdb
(Eaton, OH)--Investigators in Eaton are looking for an arsonist whose target was unusual…it was the 4-H project of a ten-year-old girl. A chicken run had just been completed for young Carlee Watson in her backyard. But, in the dark on Sunday, home security cameras caught someone wearing a mask entering the back yard and setting the run on fire. The only useful description of the suspect is that it is likely a thin male. The fire did not spread to the home and no chickens were harmed. A gofundme account has been set to help Carlee make it to the Preble County Fair, which begins a week from Saturday.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--Investigators in Eaton are looking for an arsonist whose target was unusual…it was the 4-H project of a ten-year-old girl. A chicken run had just been completed for young Carlee Watson in her backyard. But, in the dark on Sunday, home security cameras caught someone wearing a mask entering the back yard and setting the run on fire. The only useful description of the suspect is that it is likely a thin male. The fire did not spread to the home and no chickens were harmed. A gofundme account has been set to help Carlee make it to the Preble County Fair, which begins a week from Saturday.
]]>
WOMAN SENTENCED FOR PUTTING TEST STUDENTS IN HEADLOCK
/local-news/73bc5f42c8565033935a07c3c781fd5f
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:55:00 -0500
/local-news/73bc5f42c8565033935a07c3c781fd5f
(Richmond, IN)--A year and a half ago, 36-year-old Tiffany Stubbs went to Test Intermediate School to confront students after, according to her, her child was coming home from school crying every day. Stubbs put one student in a headlock and grabbed another by the back of the neck, and then threatened to beat up their mothers. On Monday, Stubbs was sentenced to one year with all time suspended. The sentencing was part of a plea deal in which two other counts were dismissed.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A year and a half ago, 36-year-old Tiffany Stubbs went to Test Intermediate School to confront students after, according to her, her child was coming home from school crying every day. Stubbs put one student in a headlock and grabbed another by the back of the neck, and then threatened to beat up their mothers. On Monday, Stubbs was sentenced to one year with all time suspended. The sentencing was part of a plea deal in which two other counts were dismissed.
]]>
US 27 / I-70 RAMPS TO REOPEN THURSDAY
/local-news/e7375b9c690d592a69eb4b7744e3c34c
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:52:00 -0500
/local-news/e7375b9c690d592a69eb4b7744e3c34c
(Richmond, IN)--Here’s a little bit of good news involving the Revive I-70 project. INDOT announced Monday that the ramps to and from U.S. 27 and eastbound I-70 are scheduled to reopen as soon as this Thursday. Those ramps have been closed since April to be rehabilitated with pavement repair and work on the acceleration and deceleration lanes. The reopening is a few weeks ahead of schedule.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--Here’s a little bit of good news involving the Revive I-70 project. INDOT announced Monday that the ramps to and from U.S. 27 and eastbound I-70 are scheduled to reopen as soon as this Thursday. Those ramps have been closed since April to be rehabilitated with pavement repair and work on the acceleration and deceleration lanes. The reopening is a few weeks ahead of schedule.
]]>
I-70 TO BE REDUCED TO ONE LANE FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
/local-news/2781c488ced6cb6d7de7988e39e91049
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:45:00 -0500
/local-news/2781c488ced6cb6d7de7988e39e91049
(Wayne County, IN)--You can expect back-ups on I-70 this week outside of what are near-daily accidents in the construction area. That’s because the interstate will be reduced to one lane for bridge maintenance over Symonds Creek Road. That’s just east of the Henry County line. The lane closures will take place in the westbound lanes Monday and Tuesday morning, and then shift to the eastbound lanes on Wednesday and Thursday morning. Work is expected to be complete by noon each day.
]]>
(Wayne County, IN)--You can expect back-ups on I-70 this week outside of what are near-daily accidents in the construction area. That’s because the interstate will be reduced to one lane for bridge maintenance over Symonds Creek Road. That’s just east of the Henry County line. The lane closures will take place in the westbound lanes Monday and Tuesday morning, and then shift to the eastbound lanes on Wednesday and Thursday morning. Work is expected to be complete by noon each day.
]]>
MAN JAILED FOR INTIMIDATION
/local-news/9d94e820d44bdd4f74e318857cfec534
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:43:00 -0500
/local-news/9d94e820d44bdd4f74e318857cfec534
(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man whose name may be familiar to some based on what he did as a teen was arrested again yesterday. Mekhi Henderson, who is now 24, was jailed Sunday for felony intimidation and OWI after a stop at North 8th and D Streets. When Henderson was 17, he was waived to adult court after a fatal shooting on Grand Boulevard. Henderson and two other teens were playing with a gun when that gun when off and struck the victim in the upper chest. He was pronounced dead at Reid Health. Details of the new arrest are not available.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man whose name may be familiar to some based on what he did as a teen was arrested again yesterday. Mekhi Henderson, who is now 24, was jailed Sunday for felony intimidation and OWI after a stop at North 8th and D Streets. When Henderson was 17, he was waived to adult court after a fatal shooting on Grand Boulevard. Henderson and two other teens were playing with a gun when that gun when off and struck the victim in the upper chest. He was pronounced dead at Reid Health. Details of the new arrest are not available.
]]>
FORMER TEACHER POSTS BOND AFTER FIRST COURT APPEARANCE
/local-news/936024672748c549dbab355ee18655ee
Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:54:00 -0500
/local-news/936024672748c549dbab355ee18655ee
(Eaton, OH)--Former Eaton Middle School teacher Kristin Schamel appeared in court for the first time Thursday. Schamel pled not guilty to multiple felony counts associated with allegations that she sexually abused one of her former students 12 years ago. The alleged victim came forward with the allegations earlier this year. After Thurday’s hearing, Schamel posted the $50,000 bond that was set and was released from custody. She’s due back in court in early September. Trial was set for late September, although that will likely be pushed back.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--Former Eaton Middle School teacher Kristin Schamel appeared in court for the first time Thursday. Schamel pled not guilty to multiple felony counts associated with allegations that she sexually abused one of her former students 12 years ago. The alleged victim came forward with the allegations earlier this year. After Thurday’s hearing, Schamel posted the $50,000 bond that was set and was released from custody. She’s due back in court in early September. Trial was set for late September, although that will likely be pushed back.
]]>
WANTED MAN SURRENDERS ON BATTERY WARRANT
/local-news/288a8c287c6ed971e06297a6d06e731b
Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:52:00 -0500
/local-news/288a8c287c6ed971e06297a6d06e731b
(Richmond, IN)--A wanted Richmond man turned himself in at the Wayne County Jail Thursday and then quickly bonded out. A warrant had been issued earlier this week for 58-year-old Robert Hurd after a judge found probable cause for battery resulting in serious injury. An initial hearing for Hurd is now pending. Online court documents show no criminal history for Hurd in Wayne County.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A wanted Richmond man turned himself in at the Wayne County Jail Thursday and then quickly bonded out. A warrant had been issued earlier this week for 58-year-old Robert Hurd after a judge found probable cause for battery resulting in serious injury. An initial hearing for Hurd is now pending. Online court documents show no criminal history for Hurd in Wayne County.
]]>
RCS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, FORMER BOYS BASKETBALL COACH RESIGN
/local-news/7e689de167a1b8d68b4939a5f6148d0e
Thu, 16 Jul 2026 06:09:00 -0500
/local-news/7e689de167a1b8d68b4939a5f6148d0e
(Richmond, IN)--Two significant resignations were added to the agenda before the Richmond Community School Board met Wednesday afternoon. Robert Lee has resigned as the RCS athletic director. Lee came to Richmond just two years ago after having served in a similar role in Gary. Also stepping down was former RHS boys basketball coach Billy Wright, who is also the brother of Superintendent Dr. Curtis Wright. Billy Wright had previously transitioned from boys basketball coach to middle school athletic director and was more recently listed as a middle school teacher.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--Two significant resignations were added to the agenda before the Richmond Community School Board met Wednesday afternoon. Robert Lee has resigned as the RCS athletic director. Lee came to Richmond just two years ago after having served in a similar role in Gary. Also stepping down was former RHS boys basketball coach Billy Wright, who is also the brother of Superintendent Dr. Curtis Wright. Billy Wright had previously transitioned from boys basketball coach to middle school athletic director and was more recently listed as a middle school teacher.
]]>
RCS BOARD DISCUSSES PARTICIPATION BY NON-STUDENTS IN EXTRACURRICULARS
/local-news/384ef135baa5c0e5da6d06ed7d056d74
Thu, 16 Jul 2026 06:06:00 -0500
/local-news/384ef135baa5c0e5da6d06ed7d056d74
(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Community School Board on Wednesday night addressed the issue of allowing non-RCS students to participate in RCS extracurricular activities, including sports. The issue came up as part of policy review. That policy, as it’s written now, states that a student living in the RCS district who is being home-schooled or attends a non-public school will not be allowed to participate. "If you have a non-RCS student that takes a spot from an RCS student, that could be a concern," said Board President Austin Brann. The Board on Wednesday night moved the issue to a third reading to allow more time for consideration.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Community School Board on Wednesday night addressed the issue of allowing non-RCS students to participate in RCS extracurricular activities, including sports. The issue came up as part of policy review. That policy, as it’s written now, states that a student living in the RCS district who is being home-schooled or attends a non-public school will not be allowed to participate. "If you have a non-RCS student that takes a spot from an RCS student, that could be a concern," said Board President Austin Brann. The Board on Wednesday night moved the issue to a third reading to allow more time for consideration.
]]>
TEACHER RETURNED TO PREBLE COUNTY JAIL FROM FLORIDA
/local-news/92a881834f7d1c35aca5a297c9da4bdd
Thu, 16 Jul 2026 06:01:00 -0500
/local-news/92a881834f7d1c35aca5a297c9da4bdd
(Eaton, OH)--A former Eaton Middle School teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a student is due in court for the first time Thursday. Kristin Schamel was taken into custody late last week in Florida and returned to Preble County on Tuesday. According to court documents, the crimes happened over ten months back in 2014. The alleged victim, who is now an adult, made the allegations earlier this year. Schamel was first placed on administrative leave, but is now no longer an employee. Schamel remains in the Preble County Jail.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--A former Eaton Middle School teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a student is due in court for the first time Thursday. Kristin Schamel was taken into custody late last week in Florida and returned to Preble County on Tuesday. According to court documents, the crimes happened over ten months back in 2014. The alleged victim, who is now an adult, made the allegations earlier this year. Schamel was first placed on administrative leave, but is now no longer an employee. Schamel remains in the Preble County Jail.
]]>
MAN JAILED FOR BURGLARY, STRANGULATION
/local-news/47d2e71c8c84cb60407eea0c90f9476c
Thu, 16 Jul 2026 05:59:00 -0500
/local-news/47d2e71c8c84cb60407eea0c90f9476c
(Hagerstown, IN)--A Richmond native who now describes himself as a California resident was arrested in Hagerstown Wednesday night on some serious charges. 30-year-old Montgomery Adams was taken into custody in the 100 block of West Walnut Street and now faces charges that include burglary, strangulation, and domestic battery. Other details, including the condition of the alleged victim, have not yet become available.
]]>
(Hagerstown, IN)--A Richmond native who now describes himself as a California resident was arrested in Hagerstown Wednesday night on some serious charges. 30-year-old Montgomery Adams was taken into custody in the 100 block of West Walnut Street and now faces charges that include burglary, strangulation, and domestic battery. Other details, including the condition of the alleged victim, have not yet become available.
]]>
NO LOCAL CASES OF CYCLOSPORIASIS REPORTED
/local-news/9196e93d7f91c6d22bfd65bdce659391
Wed, 15 Jul 2026 05:32:00 -0500
/local-news/9196e93d7f91c6d22bfd65bdce659391
(Wayne County, IN)--So far, Wayne County has excaped an illness that is affecting other parts of the Midwest. "I received my report one week ago and, at that time, there were no local cases," said Wayne County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bales yesterday talking about cyclosporiasis. It’s an illness caused by an intestinal parasite that is being transmitted mostly through unwashed fruits and vegetables. There are less than 200 cases in Indiana. It’s much more prevalent in northern Ohio and Michigan.
]]>
(Wayne County, IN)--So far, Wayne County has excaped an illness that is affecting other parts of the Midwest. "I received my report one week ago and, at that time, there were no local cases," said Wayne County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bales yesterday talking about cyclosporiasis. It’s an illness caused by an intestinal parasite that is being transmitted mostly through unwashed fruits and vegetables. There are less than 200 cases in Indiana. It’s much more prevalent in northern Ohio and Michigan.
]]>
IDENTITY RELEASED IN FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH
/local-news/6c30e3a57dc1f4730a428df3512d4e5e
Wed, 15 Jul 2026 05:30:00 -0500
/local-news/6c30e3a57dc1f4730a428df3512d4e5e
(Preble County, OH)--The identity of a man killed in a weekend motorcycle crash in Preble County was released by the Ohio Highway Patrol yesterday. 39-year-old Douglas Miller of Gettysburg was headed north on State Route 726 late Saturday afternoon when he lost control and struck a utility pole. He was taken to Reid Health where he died later that night. Investigators did not say what they believe caused Miller to lose control.
]]>
(Preble County, OH)--The identity of a man killed in a weekend motorcycle crash in Preble County was released by the Ohio Highway Patrol yesterday. 39-year-old Douglas Miller of Gettysburg was headed north on State Route 726 late Saturday afternoon when he lost control and struck a utility pole. He was taken to Reid Health where he died later that night. Investigators did not say what they believe caused Miller to lose control.
]]>
MAN SENTENCED FOR BEATING INFANT
/local-news/3b64524dd2172ab70d306b0042378df1
Wed, 15 Jul 2026 05:25:00 -0500
/local-news/3b64524dd2172ab70d306b0042378df1
(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who attacked a nine-month-old baby and then tried to blame it on his girlfriend has been sentenced. 31-year-old Darris Siler Senior was handed a 14-month sentence as part of a plea deal that saw a charge of intimidation dismissed. The incident happened a year and a half ago when, according to Siler’s own admission, the baby would not stop crying. The child was examined at Reid Health, where a large amount of deep bruising was discovered. Siler has been given credit for the nine months he’s already spent in jail.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A Richmond man who attacked a nine-month-old baby and then tried to blame it on his girlfriend has been sentenced. 31-year-old Darris Siler Senior was handed a 14-month sentence as part of a plea deal that saw a charge of intimidation dismissed. The incident happened a year and a half ago when, according to Siler’s own admission, the baby would not stop crying. The child was examined at Reid Health, where a large amount of deep bruising was discovered. Siler has been given credit for the nine months he’s already spent in jail.
]]>
RP&L MAKES CASE FOR PROPOSED RATE HIKE
/local-news/1db682565d485ba8dc00b8ed0422b9e5
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:51:00 -0500
/local-news/1db682565d485ba8dc00b8ed0422b9e5
(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Power and Light General Manager Tony Foster presented the results of a service and rate study to the RP&L Board Monday night. That study includes a proposed rate increase. Foster laid out several reasons for the proposed changes, including this: "due to having modest cash balances, we've been able to weather the storm. But we need to rebuild those reserves," Foster said. There’s also growth and increased demand for power, including both residential and industrial. "If we do see some prospects in the new part of the industrial park that we could make sure we accomodate them," Foster added. The proposed increase would be implemented over three years and would total just shy of $14 per month for the average residential customer by the end of the three-year period. The proposal must go through several levels of approval.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Power and Light General Manager Tony Foster presented the results of a service and rate study to the RP&L Board Monday night. That study includes a proposed rate increase. Foster laid out several reasons for the proposed changes, including this: "due to having modest cash balances, we've been able to weather the storm. But we need to rebuild those reserves," Foster said. There’s also growth and increased demand for power, including both residential and industrial. "If we do see some prospects in the new part of the industrial park that we could make sure we accomodate them," Foster added. The proposed increase would be implemented over three years and would total just shy of $14 per month for the average residential customer by the end of the three-year period. The proposal must go through several levels of approval.
]]>
MAN POSTS BOND AFTER ARREST FOR CHILD SOLICITATION, STALKING
/local-news/f14d06277a0b6aae81b28d42b37b2f36
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:49:00 -0500
/local-news/f14d06277a0b6aae81b28d42b37b2f36
(Richmond, IN)--Officers arrived at the job site of a Richmond man and took him into custody Monday after warrants were issued for crimes against children. 34-year-old Dustin Pierce was taken into custody at Phillips Tube Group on Industrial Parkway on charges that include child seduction by a guardian, child solicitation, stalking, and performing sexual conduct in the presence of a minor. Pierce was able to post a $60,000 bond later Monday and was released from jail. He remained free Tuesday morning. Details of what he is alleged to have done have not been released. An initial hearing is pending.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--Officers arrived at the job site of a Richmond man and took him into custody Monday after warrants were issued for crimes against children. 34-year-old Dustin Pierce was taken into custody at Phillips Tube Group on Industrial Parkway on charges that include child seduction by a guardian, child solicitation, stalking, and performing sexual conduct in the presence of a minor. Pierce was able to post a $60,000 bond later Monday and was released from jail. He remained free Tuesday morning. Details of what he is alleged to have done have not been released. An initial hearing is pending.
]]>
STATE-LINE MURDERER PLEADS NOT GUILTY BY INSANITY
/local-news/5be12a5d85d1a62e70ba3614b436f288
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:45:00 -0500
/local-news/5be12a5d85d1a62e70ba3614b436f288
(Eaton, OH)--The man accused of killing his new girlfriend at a truck stop on U.S. 40 on the state line last month is now pleading not guilty by reason of insanity. LaDavid Shaw faces charges that include murder and tampering with evidence. Shaw had already admitted that he strangled the victim because she wouldn’t be quiet. A date for Shaw’s competency hearing has not been set.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--The man accused of killing his new girlfriend at a truck stop on U.S. 40 on the state line last month is now pleading not guilty by reason of insanity. LaDavid Shaw faces charges that include murder and tampering with evidence. Shaw had already admitted that he strangled the victim because she wouldn’t be quiet. A date for Shaw’s competency hearing has not been set.
]]>
COOK NAMED PRINCIPAL AT UNION COUNTY
/local-news/d22c7e54998869428c47ebbc9d1373ad
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:43:00 -0500
/local-news/d22c7e54998869428c47ebbc9d1373ad
(Liberty, IN)--An educator who has served in numerous roles with schools across the area has been picked as principal of Union County High School. Warren Cook returns after having been principal during the 2022-23 school year. Most recently, Cook was the principal at Rushville. He is also a former teacher, coach, and athletic director at Richmond High School.
]]>
(Liberty, IN)--An educator who has served in numerous roles with schools across the area has been picked as principal of Union County High School. Warren Cook returns after having been principal during the 2022-23 school year. Most recently, Cook was the principal at Rushville. He is also a former teacher, coach, and athletic director at Richmond High School.
]]>
UNION COUNTY GETS MILLION-DOLLAR READI GRANT
/local-news/ef0fd0b8a1acf92be697417a12623ce7
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:40:00 -0500
/local-news/ef0fd0b8a1acf92be697417a12623ce7
(Union County, IN)--Monday, Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced the recipients of the READI Arts & Culture grant, and Union County is a big recipient. Union County will get a million dollars to build an open-air pavilion and to create a documentary highlighting local entrepreneurs. Union County is one of two local recipients. Oldenburg in Franklin County will get funding for a new festival and mural highlighting the community’s German heritage.
]]>
(Union County, IN)--Monday, Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced the recipients of the READI Arts & Culture grant, and Union County is a big recipient. Union County will get a million dollars to build an open-air pavilion and to create a documentary highlighting local entrepreneurs. Union County is one of two local recipients. Oldenburg in Franklin County will get funding for a new festival and mural highlighting the community’s German heritage.
]]>
TRIAL DATE SET FOR ALLEGED CARDINAL-GREENWAY RAPIST
/local-news/9f1d60c4912b94b667e869b4220b20b7
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 05:58:00 -0500
/local-news/9f1d60c4912b94b667e869b4220b20b7
(Richmond, IN)--The man accused of trying to rape a 16-year-old girl on the Cardinal-Greenway trail in Richmond has made his first appearance in court. 37-year-old Billy Wallace remains charged with rape and strangulation. On Friday, he appeared in Wayne Circuit Court. Wallace was declared indigent and a public defender was appointed to the case. According to court documents, Wallace came up behind a girl walking on the trail, put a towel around her mouth, and dragged her into the woods. Wallace said that he had no recollection of the incident because he was high on drugs. A trial date was set on Friday for September 29, although that will almost certainly be pushed back.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--The man accused of trying to rape a 16-year-old girl on the Cardinal-Greenway trail in Richmond has made his first appearance in court. 37-year-old Billy Wallace remains charged with rape and strangulation. On Friday, he appeared in Wayne Circuit Court. Wallace was declared indigent and a public defender was appointed to the case. According to court documents, Wallace came up behind a girl walking on the trail, put a towel around her mouth, and dragged her into the woods. Wallace said that he had no recollection of the incident because he was high on drugs. A trial date was set on Friday for September 29, although that will almost certainly be pushed back.
]]>
ALLEGED METH DEALER JAILED
/local-news/13080e41e06f7fd0b1615993fb91d185
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 05:56:00 -0500
/local-news/13080e41e06f7fd0b1615993fb91d185
(Richmond, IN)--An alleged Richmond drug dealer was taken into custody Sunday. Richmond police located 34-year-old Brandon Baker in the 100 block of South 10th at around 4 o’clock Sunday afternoon. Baker was charged with both dealing and possession of meth. Quantities have not been released.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--An alleged Richmond drug dealer was taken into custody Sunday. Richmond police located 34-year-old Brandon Baker in the 100 block of South 10th at around 4 o’clock Sunday afternoon. Baker was charged with both dealing and possession of meth. Quantities have not been released.
]]>
AT LEAST ONE FLOWN FROM SCENE OF I-70 CRASH
/local-news/c43baa2b68508b60bd09d4fd19d348c0
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 05:54:00 -0500
/local-news/c43baa2b68508b60bd09d4fd19d348c0
(Wayne County, IN)--At least one person was flown from the scene of yet another crash in the construction zone of the Revive I-70 project Sunday afternoon. It happened at around 5 o’clock in the westbound lanes near the Mineral Springs Road overpass. The crash blocked the westbound lanes. Eastbound lanes were also shut down to allow a medical helicopter to land. Details of what caused the crash – along with the identities and conditions of those involved – have not yet been released.
]]>
(Wayne County, IN)--At least one person was flown from the scene of yet another crash in the construction zone of the Revive I-70 project Sunday afternoon. It happened at around 5 o’clock in the westbound lanes near the Mineral Springs Road overpass. The crash blocked the westbound lanes. Eastbound lanes were also shut down to allow a medical helicopter to land. Details of what caused the crash – along with the identities and conditions of those involved – have not yet been released.
]]>
FIRE'S CAUSE UNDER INVESTIGATION
/local-news/fb17dbb9207c497edd875a484489f742
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 05:51:00 -0500
/local-news/fb17dbb9207c497edd875a484489f742
(Connersville, IN)--The cause of a Connersville fire remained under investigation Monday morning. It broke out at around 11:15 Friday night at a building in the 200 block of West 6th Street. That building had once been home to both an employment office and a license branch. Firefighters arrived to find flames showing from the front of the building. They were on the scene for several hours due to the building’s construction and false ceilings. No injuries were reported.
]]>
(Connersville, IN)--The cause of a Connersville fire remained under investigation Monday morning. It broke out at around 11:15 Friday night at a building in the 200 block of West 6th Street. That building had once been home to both an employment office and a license branch. Firefighters arrived to find flames showing from the front of the building. They were on the scene for several hours due to the building’s construction and false ceilings. No injuries were reported.
]]>
TEACHER JAILED FOR TEN COUNTS OF SEXUAL BATTERY
/local-news/0c62739361b4d2d93e7e8c6438ef404b
Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:47:00 -0500
/local-news/0c62739361b4d2d93e7e8c6438ef404b
(Eaton, OH)--A former Eaton middle school teacher has been taken into custody in Florida and now faces numerous counts of sexual battery. The investigation into 45-year-old Kristin Schamel began earlier this year. "The victim came to us an made an allegation of inappropriate sexual activity while they were a student at the (Eaton) middle school," said Preble County Sheriff Mike Simpson. On Monday, Schamel was indicted by a grand jury and, later this week, she was picked up in the St. Petersburg area of Florida. She was initially charged with ten counts of sexual battery and now faces extradition back to Ohio.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--A former Eaton middle school teacher has been taken into custody in Florida and now faces numerous counts of sexual battery. The investigation into 45-year-old Kristin Schamel began earlier this year. "The victim came to us an made an allegation of inappropriate sexual activity while they were a student at the (Eaton) middle school," said Preble County Sheriff Mike Simpson. On Monday, Schamel was indicted by a grand jury and, later this week, she was picked up in the St. Petersburg area of Florida. She was initially charged with ten counts of sexual battery and now faces extradition back to Ohio.
]]>
RPD MECHANIC JAILED FOR THEFT FROM VEHICLE
/local-news/3540b696f6b4ba94f7324332eaebcc44
Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:45:00 -0500
/local-news/3540b696f6b4ba94f7324332eaebcc44
(Richmond, IN)--A mechanic for the Richmond Police Department has been charged with theft. 36-year-old Rhett Richey was initially jailed earlier this week for theft from a motor vehicle. An initial hearing in the case was waived yesterday and a bench trial was set for September. Other details, including what Richey is alleged to have taken, have not yet been obtained.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A mechanic for the Richmond Police Department has been charged with theft. 36-year-old Rhett Richey was initially jailed earlier this week for theft from a motor vehicle. An initial hearing in the case was waived yesterday and a bench trial was set for September. Other details, including what Richey is alleged to have taken, have not yet been obtained.
]]>
SENIOR HOUSING COMPLEX PLANNED FOR WINCHESTER
/local-news/49a207df04e1927fd12495fc03d46fe2
Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:43:00 -0500
/local-news/49a207df04e1927fd12495fc03d46fe2
(Winchester, IN)--It’s been more than two years since a tornado did heavy damage in Winchester. Now, a building that has been uninhabitable since that tornado struck will be taken down with something brand new going in its place. Winchester City Council this week approved rezoning that will allow for demolition of the former Randolph Nursing Home. In its place, a $13 million senior housing complex will be constructed. Preliminary plans call for 45 single-story units that will serve people who are at least 62 years old. The project still needs state approval. If that is granted, construction would start this fall with completion expected in about one year.
]]>
(Winchester, IN)--It’s been more than two years since a tornado did heavy damage in Winchester. Now, a building that has been uninhabitable since that tornado struck will be taken down with something brand new going in its place. Winchester City Council this week approved rezoning that will allow for demolition of the former Randolph Nursing Home. In its place, a $13 million senior housing complex will be constructed. Preliminary plans call for 45 single-story units that will serve people who are at least 62 years old. The project still needs state approval. If that is granted, construction would start this fall with completion expected in about one year.
]]>
ACCUSED TRUCK STOP KILLER PLEADS NOT GUILTY
/local-news/9aeecdbe2b69b7b80e3f58ced9b526da
Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:21:00 -0500
/local-news/9aeecdbe2b69b7b80e3f58ced9b526da
(Eaton, OH)--The man accused of killing a woman at the Petro Struck stop on the state line was back in court for formal arraignment Wednesday. LaDavid Shaw entered a plea of not guilty. He also requested that the judge look into why he did not get a bond reduction. The magistrate said she would do as Shaw requested, but said it was unlikely his bond would be reduced. Shaw also asked for time to find additional legal counsel. He is next due in court on August 13 and will be held on a million-dollar bond until then.
]]>
(Eaton, OH)--The man accused of killing a woman at the Petro Struck stop on the state line was back in court for formal arraignment Wednesday. LaDavid Shaw entered a plea of not guilty. He also requested that the judge look into why he did not get a bond reduction. The magistrate said she would do as Shaw requested, but said it was unlikely his bond would be reduced. Shaw also asked for time to find additional legal counsel. He is next due in court on August 13 and will be held on a million-dollar bond until then.
]]>
COFFEE DRIVE-THRU EYES RICHMOND'S EAST SIDE
/local-news/e00aa811ab263f8e579acefa7f242598
Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:18:00 -0500
/local-news/e00aa811ab263f8e579acefa7f242598
(Richmond, IN)--A new building and a new business appear headed for the Gateway Plaza on National Road East in Richmond. Lora Schlosser, who lives in Portland, appeared before the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals Wednesday and said that she would like to put a coffee franchise where the former Lulu’s Taco building is. That franchise is called Scooter’s Coffee. Schlosser already owns a Scooter’s in Decatur and described the business. "Drive-thru only...we offer specialty coffee, energy drinks, and some food items," Schlosser said. The Zoning Board gave unanimous approval Wednesday. Demolition and construction are expected to start soon.
]]>
(Richmond, IN)--A new building and a new business appear headed for the Gateway Plaza on National Road East in Richmond. Lora Schlosser, who lives in Portland, appeared before the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals Wednesday and said that she would like to put a coffee franchise where the former Lulu’s Taco building is. That franchise is called Scooter’s Coffee. Schlosser already owns a Scooter’s in Decatur and described the business. "Drive-thru only...we offer specialty coffee, energy drinks, and some food items," Schlosser said. The Zoning Board gave unanimous approval Wednesday. Demolition and construction are expected to start soon.
]]>
MAN CLAIMS FATAL GREENVILLE SHOOTING WAS DONE IN SELF-DEFENSE
/local-news/320aa07dcc5ca33d170b4b2d74136c87
Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:13:00 -0500
/local-news/320aa07dcc5ca33d170b4b2d74136c87
(Greenville, OH)--The shooting in Greenville that Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point reported on Wednesday morning has resulted in the death of a 26-year-old man. It happened early Wednesday in the 1100 block of Russ Road. The victim has been identified as James Cocoran, who died at the scene. A second man, later identified as 33-year-old Todd Black, was located at the same address and taken into custody without incident. Black was booked into the Darke County Jail on one count of murder. He’s claiming the shooting was done in self-defense.
]]>
(Greenville, OH)--The shooting in Greenville that Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point reported on Wednesday morning has resulted in the death of a 26-year-old man. It happened early Wednesday in the 1100 block of Russ Road. The victim has been identified as James Cocoran, who died at the scene. A second man, later identified as 33-year-old Todd Black, was located at the same address and taken into custody without incident. Black was booked into the Darke County Jail on one count of murder. He’s claiming the shooting was done in self-defense.
]]>