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BRIDGE OVER I-70 TO BE DEMOLISHED THIS WEEK
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Mon, 12 Oct 2026 06:29:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--A couple of ramp closures that were announced last week as part of the Revive I-70 project have now been delayed until spring. Ramps at both U.S. 40 and State Road 227 have been affected by what INDOT called an updated work schedule. Later this week, crews will demolish the bridge that carries northbound Williamsburg Pike to westbound 70. That entire interchange will have two roundabouts when work is complete.
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(Richmond, IN)--A couple of ramp closures that were announced last week as part of the Revive I-70 project have now been delayed until spring. Ramps at both U.S. 40 and State Road 227 have been affected by what INDOT called an updated work schedule. Later this week, crews will demolish the bridge that carries northbound Williamsburg Pike to westbound 70. That entire interchange will have two roundabouts when work is complete.
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RPD SEEKS HELP IN IDENTIFYING MAN
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Mon, 12 Oct 2026 06:27:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Police Department is asking for the help of the public in identifying a person. RPD is not saying why they’re seeking his identity, but did share a couple of images over the weekend that appear to have been taken from a convenience store. If you can identify him, you’re asked to contact Detective Huskisson at RPD.
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(Richmond, IN)--The Richmond Police Department is asking for the help of the public in identifying a person. RPD is not saying why they’re seeking his identity, but did share a couple of images over the weekend that appear to have been taken from a convenience store. If you can identify him, you’re asked to contact Detective Huskisson at RPD.
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MAN SOUGHT BY MARSHALS CAPTURED IN UNION COUNTY
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Mon, 12 Oct 2026 06:24:00 -0500
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(West College Corner, IN)--What started as a simple traffic stop for speeding turned in to something much more. Details were released Sunday of a traffic stop in West College Corner. Union County deputies stopped the vehicle and found that an occupant had a warrant and was actively being sought by U.S. Marshals on weapons charges in Virginia. Deputies also recovered an unspecified amount of cocaine and marijuana. There’s no word on what the man was doing in Union County.
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(West College Corner, IN)--What started as a simple traffic stop for speeding turned in to something much more. Details were released Sunday of a traffic stop in West College Corner. Union County deputies stopped the vehicle and found that an occupant had a warrant and was actively being sought by U.S. Marshals on weapons charges in Virginia. Deputies also recovered an unspecified amount of cocaine and marijuana. There’s no word on what the man was doing in Union County.
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VICTIM PULLED FROM OVERNIGHT APARTMENT FIRE
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Fri, 09 Oct 2026 06:33:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--A medical helicopter was called after a victim was found at the scene of a fire on Richmond’s east side overnight. Firefighters were called to the area of the Stonehenge Apartments in the 3700 block of South A at around 11 o’clock last night. Here’s radio traffic of one of the first units on the scene: "We've got smoke in the air. We're going to check further." Shortly after, an occupant was located. "Medic 3, get up here. We've got a victim they just pulled out," said one firefighter. The fire was mostly contained to one unit. There’s no word yet on the condition of the victim or the cause of the fire.
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(Richmond, IN)--A medical helicopter was called after a victim was found at the scene of a fire on Richmond’s east side overnight. Firefighters were called to the area of the Stonehenge Apartments in the 3700 block of South A at around 11 o’clock last night. Here’s radio traffic of one of the first units on the scene: "We've got smoke in the air. We're going to check further." Shortly after, an occupant was located. "Medic 3, get up here. We've got a victim they just pulled out," said one firefighter. The fire was mostly contained to one unit. There’s no word yet on the condition of the victim or the cause of the fire.
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PREBLE COUNTY AUTHORITIES SEARCH FOR "KNOWN CAR THIEF"
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Fri, 09 Oct 2026 06:27:00 -0500
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(Eaton, OH)--Law enforcement officers in Preble County have been searching overnight for a man they describe as a known car thief. 34-year-old Anthony Polver allegedly stole a city-owned truck from a storage building across from Fort St. Clair in Eaton. The truck was then abandoned on State Route 725 just east of Camden. A possible sighting of Polver was made on North Barron in Eaton as recently as around midnight Thursday night / Friday morning.
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(Eaton, OH)--Law enforcement officers in Preble County have been searching overnight for a man they describe as a known car thief. 34-year-old Anthony Polver allegedly stole a city-owned truck from a storage building across from Fort St. Clair in Eaton. The truck was then abandoned on State Route 725 just east of Camden. A possible sighting of Polver was made on North Barron in Eaton as recently as around midnight Thursday night / Friday morning.
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MAKE MY MOVE EXTENSION SOUGHT
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Thu, 08 Oct 2026 06:17:00 -0500
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(Wayne County, IN)--Wayne County is looking to extend its participation in the Make My Move program. That’s the program that offers financial and other incentives to move to Wayne County to take advantage of its low cost of living. Here’s Wayne County EDC President Valerie Shaffer addressing the impact with County Council on Wednesday: "We've been able to recruit 50 households which equates to 111 individuls - 77 adults and 34 children. Most of those people work remotely. The financial impact has been undeniable. "About $201,000 invested results in a $4.2 million economic impact and $518,000 in new annual tax revenue," Shaffer explained. Each mover receives about $7500 in incentives.
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(Wayne County, IN)--Wayne County is looking to extend its participation in the Make My Move program. That’s the program that offers financial and other incentives to move to Wayne County to take advantage of its low cost of living. Here’s Wayne County EDC President Valerie Shaffer addressing the impact with County Council on Wednesday: "We've been able to recruit 50 households which equates to 111 individuls - 77 adults and 34 children. Most of those people work remotely. The financial impact has been undeniable. "About $201,000 invested results in a $4.2 million economic impact and $518,000 in new annual tax revenue," Shaffer explained. Each mover receives about $7500 in incentives.
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BROTHERS ARRAIGNED ON RAPE CHARGES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRLS
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Thu, 08 Oct 2026 06:13:00 -0500
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(Eaton, OH)--Two Camden brothers appeared in a Preble County courtroom Wednesday to be formally arraigned on charges involving the rape of underage girls. David and Frankie Rader, who are ages 51 and 48, allegedly engaged in sexual offenses with a girl when she was between the ages of six and 13 years old. They allegedly engaged in that conduct through force or threat of force. Both brothers are being held in the Preble County Jail.
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(Eaton, OH)--Two Camden brothers appeared in a Preble County courtroom Wednesday to be formally arraigned on charges involving the rape of underage girls. David and Frankie Rader, who are ages 51 and 48, allegedly engaged in sexual offenses with a girl when she was between the ages of six and 13 years old. They allegedly engaged in that conduct through force or threat of force. Both brothers are being held in the Preble County Jail.
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TWO JAILED IN THURSDAY MORNING DRUG ARRESTS
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Thu, 08 Oct 2026 06:08:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--Two people were arrested in separate drug incidents in Richmond early Thursday morning, and one of them is a convicted drug dealer. Brooklyn Bair was arrested at around 1 o’clock Thursday morning near South 11th and E and charged with possession of cocaine. A couple of hours before that, officers encountered Jessie Swearingen near North 17th and C. He’s now charged with possession of meth. 11 years ago, Swearingen was sentenced to ten years in prison for dealing heroin. There’s no word yet on quantities of drugs recovered Thursday morning.
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(Richmond, IN)--Two people were arrested in separate drug incidents in Richmond early Thursday morning, and one of them is a convicted drug dealer. Brooklyn Bair was arrested at around 1 o’clock Thursday morning near South 11th and E and charged with possession of cocaine. A couple of hours before that, officers encountered Jessie Swearingen near North 17th and C. He’s now charged with possession of meth. 11 years ago, Swearingen was sentenced to ten years in prison for dealing heroin. There’s no word yet on quantities of drugs recovered Thursday morning.
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BROTHERS ACCUSED OF RAPING UNDERAGE GIRL
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Wed, 07 Oct 2026 06:02:00 -0500
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(Camden, OH)--Two Preble County brothers are both charged with raping a girl who was under the age of 13. 48-year-old Frankie Rader of Camden was booked into the Preble County Jail Tuesday and is being held without bond. His brother, David Rader, is facing two rape charges stemming from an investigation that dates back more than a decade. Prosecutors expressed concerns that there could be other victims and urged those potential victims to come forward. David Rader is set to be arraigned Wednesday.
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(Camden, OH)--Two Preble County brothers are both charged with raping a girl who was under the age of 13. 48-year-old Frankie Rader of Camden was booked into the Preble County Jail Tuesday and is being held without bond. His brother, David Rader, is facing two rape charges stemming from an investigation that dates back more than a decade. Prosecutors expressed concerns that there could be other victims and urged those potential victims to come forward. David Rader is set to be arraigned Wednesday.
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JURY SEATED IN DOUBLE MURDER CASE
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Wed, 07 Oct 2026 05:58:00 -0500
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(Connersville, IN)--It took two full days to pick a jury in the Joshua Farmer double murder trial in Connersville, but that process was completed Tuesday. The final jurors to be picked Tuesday were again questioned at length about their views on mental illness and the insanity defense. Farmer is accused of killing Thomas Combs and Joshua Durham in separate shootings four years ago. Opening statements and the beginning of the presentation of the prosecutor’s case are taking place Wednesday.
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(Connersville, IN)--It took two full days to pick a jury in the Joshua Farmer double murder trial in Connersville, but that process was completed Tuesday. The final jurors to be picked Tuesday were again questioned at length about their views on mental illness and the insanity defense. Farmer is accused of killing Thomas Combs and Joshua Durham in separate shootings four years ago. Opening statements and the beginning of the presentation of the prosecutor’s case are taking place Wednesday.
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"J-MURDA" REMAINS ON THE LOOSE
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Tue, 06 Oct 2026 05:43:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--Joshua Smith remained on the loose Tuesday morning. The teen, who is also known by the nickname “J-Murda”, still has an active warrant for the murder of Cecelia Hargrove and the shooting of two other teenage girls in Richmond last week. Law enforcement agents searched the area of Hayes Arboretum on Monday based on a reported potential sighting of Smith on Glen Court on Sunday and a subsequent report late Sunday of someone jumping from a train. Monday night, RPD issued a statement saying that the suspect was not Smith, but was a different individual who had allegedly stolen a car. That car was recovered Monday in Eaton. RPD also Monday night reminded residents to stay alert and to not approach anyone who they believe may be Smith.
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(Richmond, IN)--Joshua Smith remained on the loose Tuesday morning. The teen, who is also known by the nickname “J-Murda”, still has an active warrant for the murder of Cecelia Hargrove and the shooting of two other teenage girls in Richmond last week. Law enforcement agents searched the area of Hayes Arboretum on Monday based on a reported potential sighting of Smith on Glen Court on Sunday and a subsequent report late Sunday of someone jumping from a train. Monday night, RPD issued a statement saying that the suspect was not Smith, but was a different individual who had allegedly stolen a car. That car was recovered Monday in Eaton. RPD also Monday night reminded residents to stay alert and to not approach anyone who they believe may be Smith.
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COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY REJECTS HOMELESS ORDINANCE
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Tue, 06 Oct 2026 05:40:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met Monday night and addressed a proposed ordinance that was written with a goal of keeping homeless people from other communities from being brought to Richmond and dropped off. Mayor Ron Oler had previously said the ordinance was written to protect local resource from being drained by people from other cities. Councilman Doug Goss said that the city’s Safety Committee had numerous concerns. "The Public Safety Committee has concerns about enforcement - the ability to actually enforce this - and possible legal issues," Goss said. Council unanimously rejected the ordinance.
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(Richmond, IN)--Richmond Common Council met Monday night and addressed a proposed ordinance that was written with a goal of keeping homeless people from other communities from being brought to Richmond and dropped off. Mayor Ron Oler had previously said the ordinance was written to protect local resource from being drained by people from other cities. Councilman Doug Goss said that the city’s Safety Committee had numerous concerns. "The Public Safety Committee has concerns about enforcement - the ability to actually enforce this - and possible legal issues," Goss said. Council unanimously rejected the ordinance.
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DOUBLE MURDER TRIAL BEGINS
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Tue, 06 Oct 2026 05:37:00 -0500
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(Connersville, IN)--More than four full years after the first of two murders, trial finally began Monday in a Connersville courtroom in the case of Joshua Farmer. Farmer allegedly killed Thomas Combs near Dale Cemetery and Joshua Durham near the Connersville City Cemetery. The entire day Monday was comprised of jury selection, and that is not yet complete. Prospective jurors were questioned at length Monday about their views on mental illness and legal insanity. Farmer has been held without bond since his arrest two and a half years ago. Jury selection is continuing Tuesday.
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(Connersville, IN)--More than four full years after the first of two murders, trial finally began Monday in a Connersville courtroom in the case of Joshua Farmer. Farmer allegedly killed Thomas Combs near Dale Cemetery and Joshua Durham near the Connersville City Cemetery. The entire day Monday was comprised of jury selection, and that is not yet complete. Prospective jurors were questioned at length Monday about their views on mental illness and legal insanity. Farmer has been held without bond since his arrest two and a half years ago. Jury selection is continuing Tuesday.
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INITIAL HEARING SET FOR MAN ACCUSED OF OBTAINING NUDE PHOTOS OF YOUNG GIRLS
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Tue, 06 Oct 2026 05:30:00 -0500
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(Cambridge City, IN)--An initial hearing has been set for a Wayne County man accused of exchanging nude photos with young girls across three states. 41-year-old James Slonaker is due in court on Friday. According to a newly obtained affidavit, Slonaker posed as a boy as young as ten years old to make contact with girls as young as eight through TikTok. Three girls were listed in the affidavit as victims, including one each in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. In each case, the girls allegedly were sent inappropriate photos Slonaker took of himself and received photos in return from the girls. In most cases, the activity was discovered by the girls’ mothers, who then reported it to law enforcement.
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(Cambridge City, IN)--An initial hearing has been set for a Wayne County man accused of exchanging nude photos with young girls across three states. 41-year-old James Slonaker is due in court on Friday. According to a newly obtained affidavit, Slonaker posed as a boy as young as ten years old to make contact with girls as young as eight through TikTok. Three girls were listed in the affidavit as victims, including one each in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. In each case, the girls allegedly were sent inappropriate photos Slonaker took of himself and received photos in return from the girls. In most cases, the activity was discovered by the girls’ mothers, who then reported it to law enforcement.
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TWO MORE I-70 RAMPS PEGGED FOR CLOSURE
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Tue, 06 Oct 2026 05:26:00 -0500
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(Wayne County, IN)--The next set of extended ramp closures is coming to I-70 in the Revive I-70 project. INDOT announced Monday that the exit ramp from eastbound 70 to State Road 227 and the entrance ramp from eastbound U.S. 40 to eastbound 70 are set to close at some point in the next two weeks. Both ramps will remain closed until sometime in December.
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(Wayne County, IN)--The next set of extended ramp closures is coming to I-70 in the Revive I-70 project. INDOT announced Monday that the exit ramp from eastbound 70 to State Road 227 and the entrance ramp from eastbound U.S. 40 to eastbound 70 are set to close at some point in the next two weeks. Both ramps will remain closed until sometime in December.
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MASSIVE MANHUNT CONDUCTED IN AREA OF HAYES ARBORETUM
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Mon, 05 Oct 2026 06:21:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--There was a massive manhunt Sunday night and early Monday morning in the area of Hayes Arboretum in Richmond. The search began at around 9:30 Sunday night. At 11 o’clock Sunday night, the state police and other agencies headed to the scene to help establish a perimeter and to search. Here’s one ISP trooper: "They're trying to get a subject detained that's been running around on top of a train." Then, a half an hour later, the Ohio Highway Patrol joined the search by air. That’s when a description that of the suspect was given to searchers. "He's a six-foot light-skinned black male with a red hoodie and light blue jeans covered in tattoos," said one dispatcher. Although that description matches the description of the teen involved in last week’s fatal shooting, there is no confirmation at this point that that teen was the subject of Monday morning’s search. One Wayne County official indicated that the search has been called off by 5 a.m. Dispatchers later refused to give any information, including whether or not the search ended because of capture or because it was simply called off. That dispatcher also refused to say if any residents in the area should take any precautions.
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(Richmond, IN)--There was a massive manhunt Sunday night and early Monday morning in the area of Hayes Arboretum in Richmond. The search began at around 9:30 Sunday night. At 11 o’clock Sunday night, the state police and other agencies headed to the scene to help establish a perimeter and to search. Here’s one ISP trooper: "They're trying to get a subject detained that's been running around on top of a train." Then, a half an hour later, the Ohio Highway Patrol joined the search by air. That’s when a description that of the suspect was given to searchers. "He's a six-foot light-skinned black male with a red hoodie and light blue jeans covered in tattoos," said one dispatcher. Although that description matches the description of the teen involved in last week’s fatal shooting, there is no confirmation at this point that that teen was the subject of Monday morning’s search. One Wayne County official indicated that the search has been called off by 5 a.m. Dispatchers later refused to give any information, including whether or not the search ended because of capture or because it was simply called off. That dispatcher also refused to say if any residents in the area should take any precautions.
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INVESTIGATION INTO CAMBRIDGE CITY MAN SPANNED MULTIPLE STATES
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Fri, 02 Oct 2026 05:53:00 -0500
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(Cambridge City, IN)--Here’s more on the arrest first reported Thursday by Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News of Cambridge City’s James Slonaker. According to a release from the Indiana State Police, Slonaker had been the subject of an eight-month investigation by numerous agencies including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security involving the solicitation of children. Investigators in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York were also involved in the case. Slonaker has posted bond and was free Friday morning. An initial hearing is pending.
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(Cambridge City, IN)--Here’s more on the arrest first reported Thursday by Kicks 96 and 101.7 The Point News of Cambridge City’s James Slonaker. According to a release from the Indiana State Police, Slonaker had been the subject of an eight-month investigation by numerous agencies including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security involving the solicitation of children. Investigators in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York were also involved in the case. Slonaker has posted bond and was free Friday morning. An initial hearing is pending.
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PREBLE COUNTY 911 CALLS REROUTED TO DARKE COUNTY
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Fri, 02 Oct 2026 05:49:00 -0500
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(Eaton, OH)--Repairs are continuing to 911 lines in Preble County. The outage happened Thursday when, according to Brightspeed, fiber lines were cut. Calls to 911 Thursday were immediately rerouted to Darke County dispatchers. Preble County officials indicated Friday morning that some calls to 911 are again going to Preble County, but others are going to Darke County as repairs continue.
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(Eaton, OH)--Repairs are continuing to 911 lines in Preble County. The outage happened Thursday when, according to Brightspeed, fiber lines were cut. Calls to 911 Thursday were immediately rerouted to Darke County dispatchers. Preble County officials indicated Friday morning that some calls to 911 are again going to Preble County, but others are going to Darke County as repairs continue.
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BOND DENIED FOR WOMAN CHARGED WITH TOWN MARSHAL'S KILLING
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Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:37:00 -0500
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(Winchester, IN)--Bond has been denied for the woman charged with striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher during a police chase in July. Earlier this week, public defenders for Maci Atkinson asked that bond be set, ostensibly so that she could potentially be released from jail before trial. But, in a ruling that was issued Wednesday, the Randolph Circuit Court Judge found that prosecutors met the burden required to keep Atkinson held without bond. That trial is currently set for late January, although it will almost certainly be pushed back.
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(Winchester, IN)--Bond has been denied for the woman charged with striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher during a police chase in July. Earlier this week, public defenders for Maci Atkinson asked that bond be set, ostensibly so that she could potentially be released from jail before trial. But, in a ruling that was issued Wednesday, the Randolph Circuit Court Judge found that prosecutors met the burden required to keep Atkinson held without bond. That trial is currently set for late January, although it will almost certainly be pushed back.
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MAN JAILED FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD SEX ABUSE MATERIAL
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Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:32:00 -0500
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(Cambridge City, IN)--A Wayne County man was booked into the Wayne County Jail Wednesday afternoon and is now charged with a series of sex crimes against children. 41-year-old James Slonaker was taken into custody at his home in Cambridge City. Charges against Slonaker include possession of child sex abuse material, child solicitation, and child exploitation. Details of what led to the charges have not yet become available. Slonaker has no history of those types of crimes in Wayne County.
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(Cambridge City, IN)--A Wayne County man was booked into the Wayne County Jail Wednesday afternoon and is now charged with a series of sex crimes against children. 41-year-old James Slonaker was taken into custody at his home in Cambridge City. Charges against Slonaker include possession of child sex abuse material, child solicitation, and child exploitation. Details of what led to the charges have not yet become available. Slonaker has no history of those types of crimes in Wayne County.
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FRISCH'S BUILDING TO BE CONVERTED TO HEALTHCARE FACILITY
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Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:28:00 -0500
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(Eaton, OH)--A new health care center is coming to Eaton. Ground was broken Wednesday on what will be called the Eaton Community Health Center as part of Primary Health Solutions. The facility will operate in the former Frisch’s restaurant building on North Barron Street. That building has been vacant for nearly two years. They’ll offer primary care, dental services, and behavioral health services. It’s scheduled to open early next summer.
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(Eaton, OH)--A new health care center is coming to Eaton. Ground was broken Wednesday on what will be called the Eaton Community Health Center as part of Primary Health Solutions. The facility will operate in the former Frisch’s restaurant building on North Barron Street. That building has been vacant for nearly two years. They’ll offer primary care, dental services, and behavioral health services. It’s scheduled to open early next summer.
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WOODRUFF'S SUPERMARKET LONG-TIME OWNER SELLS, RETIRES
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Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:23:00 -0500
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(Liberty, IN)--The long-time owner of Woodruff’s Supermarket in Liberty has sold the business and is retiring. Tim Woodruff has spent the last 50 years operating Liberty’s only grocery. Operations of the store and its name will continue with the new ownership and a few minor changes. Woodruff’s has operated in Liberty since 1944.
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(Liberty, IN)--The long-time owner of Woodruff’s Supermarket in Liberty has sold the business and is retiring. Tim Woodruff has spent the last 50 years operating Liberty’s only grocery. Operations of the store and its name will continue with the new ownership and a few minor changes. Woodruff’s has operated in Liberty since 1944.
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SERVICES PENDING FOR SHOOTING VICTIM
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Wed, 30 Sep 2026 06:01:00 -0500
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(Richmond, IN)--The family of Cecilia Hargrove indicated Tuesday night that services are still pending for the girl who was killed in the Monday morning shooting at a home near the intersection of South 9th and E in Richmond. Hargrove was pronounced dead at the home where two other teenage girls had also been shot. Richmond police investigators did not update the conditions of the two girls who initially survived, but did say that a juvenile had been arrested in connection with the shooting. RPD also Tuesday called it an ongoing investigation and asked that anyone who witnessed the incident or who had pertinent information contact investigators. Even though the juvenile who has been arrested in connection with Monday morning’s fatal shooting in Richmond has not been charged as an adult yet, it remains a possibility depending on the suspect’s age. If that suspect is either 16 or 17 years old, charges would be filed directly into adult court by the prosecutor. If the shooter is between 12 and 15 years old, a judge decides whether or not to transfer the case to adult court. Once the case is transferred, the suspect can be identified regardless of his or her age.
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(Richmond, IN)--The family of Cecilia Hargrove indicated Tuesday night that services are still pending for the girl who was killed in the Monday morning shooting at a home near the intersection of South 9th and E in Richmond. Hargrove was pronounced dead at the home where two other teenage girls had also been shot. Richmond police investigators did not update the conditions of the two girls who initially survived, but did say that a juvenile had been arrested in connection with the shooting. RPD also Tuesday called it an ongoing investigation and asked that anyone who witnessed the incident or who had pertinent information contact investigators. Even though the juvenile who has been arrested in connection with Monday morning’s fatal shooting in Richmond has not been charged as an adult yet, it remains a possibility depending on the suspect’s age. If that suspect is either 16 or 17 years old, charges would be filed directly into adult court by the prosecutor. If the shooter is between 12 and 15 years old, a judge decides whether or not to transfer the case to adult court. Once the case is transferred, the suspect can be identified regardless of his or her age.
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RCS DROPS IN ILEARN PROFICIENCY; MOST AREA SCHOOLS BELOW STATE AVERAGE
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Wed, 30 Sep 2026 05:47:00 -0500
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(Whitewater Valley)--New ILEARN results have been released. ILEARN measures student achievement and growth in various categories for grades three through eight. Statewide, 31.5% of students have been rates as proficient in both math and English. Nearly every public school in the Whitewater Valley fell below state average. The only two schools above state average are Centerville and Randolph Southern, which are both at 33%. Richmond fell well below state average, with only 16.5% of students testing proficient in both math and English. Richmond Community Schools has taken a step backward with its ILEARN results when compared to previous years. In each of the last two years, 25% of students were proficient. The problem for Richmond this year comes in grades 7 and 8. Less than one in ten students in those grades is proficient. Nearly half of Charles Elementary students are proficient, while less than one in 10 at Vaile are proficient in both math and English. Here are the results for area schools indicating the percentage of students rated proficient in both math and English: Centerville, 33.6%. Randolph Southern, 33%. Nettle Creek, 31.4%. Western Wayne, 30.4%. Union County, 30%. Fayette County, 27%. Northeastern, 25.2%. Franklin County, 25%. Randolph Central, 25%. Monroe Central, 25%. Richmond, 16.5%. Randolph Eastern, 9%.
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(Whitewater Valley)--New ILEARN results have been released. ILEARN measures student achievement and growth in various categories for grades three through eight. Statewide, 31.5% of students have been rates as proficient in both math and English. Nearly every public school in the Whitewater Valley fell below state average. The only two schools above state average are Centerville and Randolph Southern, which are both at 33%. Richmond fell well below state average, with only 16.5% of students testing proficient in both math and English. Richmond Community Schools has taken a step backward with its ILEARN results when compared to previous years. In each of the last two years, 25% of students were proficient. The problem for Richmond this year comes in grades 7 and 8. Less than one in ten students in those grades is proficient. Nearly half of Charles Elementary students are proficient, while less than one in 10 at Vaile are proficient in both math and English. Here are the results for area schools indicating the percentage of students rated proficient in both math and English: Centerville, 33.6%. Randolph Southern, 33%. Nettle Creek, 31.4%. Western Wayne, 30.4%. Union County, 30%. Fayette County, 27%. Northeastern, 25.2%. Franklin County, 25%. Randolph Central, 25%. Monroe Central, 25%. Richmond, 16.5%. Randolph Eastern, 9%.
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HOME INTRUDER SHOT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY
/local-news/d3fa0b4c4c8a05cefde6bb9eba70334b
Wed, 30 Sep 2026 05:44:00 -0500
/local-news/d3fa0b4c4c8a05cefde6bb9eba70334b
(Laurel, IN)--There was a shooting in Franklin County on Tuesday morning. It happened at a home in the 25,000 block of Chapel Road near Laurel. A resident of that home fired at least one shot at a man who was trying to get into the home. The man who was shot was taken to University Medical Center in Cincinnati. Injuries were initially described as non-life-threatening. Investigators believe the two men knew each other and it was not a random incident. No arrests have been made so far.
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(Laurel, IN)--There was a shooting in Franklin County on Tuesday morning. It happened at a home in the 25,000 block of Chapel Road near Laurel. A resident of that home fired at least one shot at a man who was trying to get into the home. The man who was shot was taken to University Medical Center in Cincinnati. Injuries were initially described as non-life-threatening. Investigators believe the two men knew each other and it was not a random incident. No arrests have been made so far.
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RPD STILL WITHHOLDING DETAILS OF TRIPLE SHOOTING
/local-news/d62d894558edac5ef1ce6503fdc7e207
Tue, 29 Sep 2026 05:45:00 -0500
/local-news/d62d894558edac5ef1ce6503fdc7e207
(Richmond, IN)--There has been no new information overnight from the Richmond Police Department after three people were shot near South 9th and E Street Monday morning. RPD indicated shortly after arriving on the scene that there was no threat to the community, but did not indicate whether or not an arrest had been made. It was described as an incident that was isolated and among people who knew each other. Numerous bullet holes were visible in the door of the multi-unit apartment. By Monday afternoon, RPD said that they had interviewed several people of interest and were working through tips and evidence. They called it a fluid and ongoing case. Investigators Tuesday morning were not confirming the ages, identities, or conditions of the three people who were shot . The victims are widely being identified on social media as teenage girls. RPD did confirm that at least one person was taken to Miami Valley Hospital. A family member has identified her and started a gofundme account. That victim is a 16-year-old girl who was reportedly shot three times.
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(Richmond, IN)--There has been no new information overnight from the Richmond Police Department after three people were shot near South 9th and E Street Monday morning. RPD indicated shortly after arriving on the scene that there was no threat to the community, but did not indicate whether or not an arrest had been made. It was described as an incident that was isolated and among people who knew each other. Numerous bullet holes were visible in the door of the multi-unit apartment. By Monday afternoon, RPD said that they had interviewed several people of interest and were working through tips and evidence. They called it a fluid and ongoing case. Investigators Tuesday morning were not confirming the ages, identities, or conditions of the three people who were shot . The victims are widely being identified on social media as teenage girls. RPD did confirm that at least one person was taken to Miami Valley Hospital. A family member has identified her and started a gofundme account. That victim is a 16-year-old girl who was reportedly shot three times.
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PUBLIC DEFENDERS REQUEST BOND FOR LYNN TOWN MARSHAL'S ALLEGED KILLER
/local-news/b88c728a49c61869bd2438fc7f3bb724
Tue, 29 Sep 2026 05:42:00 -0500
/local-news/b88c728a49c61869bd2438fc7f3bb724
(Winchester, IN)--The public defenders representing Maci Atkinson, who is charged with striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher in July, on Monday tried to convince a Randolph County Judge that she should be released on bond. Those attorneys said that the evidence that Atkinson did it intentionally was not strong. But prosecutors countered, saying the judge should not "unleash this defendant on the people of Randolph County." Prosecutors also pointed to Atkinson’s recent criminal record. Just since April, but before the fatal chase, she had been charged with a total of seven crimes in four different cases. The judge is expected to issue a decision on the request for bond in a few days.
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(Winchester, IN)--The public defenders representing Maci Atkinson, who is charged with striking and killing Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher in July, on Monday tried to convince a Randolph County Judge that she should be released on bond. Those attorneys said that the evidence that Atkinson did it intentionally was not strong. But prosecutors countered, saying the judge should not "unleash this defendant on the people of Randolph County." Prosecutors also pointed to Atkinson’s recent criminal record. Just since April, but before the fatal chase, she had been charged with a total of seven crimes in four different cases. The judge is expected to issue a decision on the request for bond in a few days.
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SOUND OF GUNSHOTS DELAYS ELEMENTARY DISMISSAL
/local-news/20ccdcc2699926f3baffaae3716a9f90
Tue, 29 Sep 2026 05:40:00 -0500
/local-news/20ccdcc2699926f3baffaae3716a9f90
(Connersville, IN)--Dismissal at Frazee Elementary in Connersville was briefly delayed Monday because of the sounds of gunshots. According to a statement from Fayette County Schools, students were kept inside while police investigated. It was quickly determined that the shots were coming from Indiana Ordinance on 21st Street and were echoing into the area. Indiana Ordinance is a long-range competitive shooting facility. There was no threat to students or staff.
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(Connersville, IN)--Dismissal at Frazee Elementary in Connersville was briefly delayed Monday because of the sounds of gunshots. According to a statement from Fayette County Schools, students were kept inside while police investigated. It was quickly determined that the shots were coming from Indiana Ordinance on 21st Street and were echoing into the area. Indiana Ordinance is a long-range competitive shooting facility. There was no threat to students or staff.
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TRUMP TO APPEAR AT RALLY WITHIN HALF-HOUR OF RICHMOND
/local-news/cd28801241bdae3675df6ad6f78d6772
Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:21:00 -0500
/local-news/cd28801241bdae3675df6ad6f78d6772
(Vandalia, OH)--The White House has announced that President Trump will be holding a rally within a half an hour of Richmond coming up on Saturday. Trump is scheduled to appear at Butler High School in Vandalia late Saturday afternoon. That’s just a few blocks away from the Dayton International Airport. The rally is in support of Republican Senator John Husted, who is being challenged by Sherrod Brown. People who want to attend will need to register through the GOP’s event page website.
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(Vandalia, OH)--The White House has announced that President Trump will be holding a rally within a half an hour of Richmond coming up on Saturday. Trump is scheduled to appear at Butler High School in Vandalia late Saturday afternoon. That’s just a few blocks away from the Dayton International Airport. The rally is in support of Republican Senator John Husted, who is being challenged by Sherrod Brown. People who want to attend will need to register through the GOP’s event page website.
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BOND HEARING SET FOR MONDAY FOR TOWN MARSHAL'S ALLEGED KILLER
/local-news/984e31db639c66331608b38533cf1c14
Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:17:00 -0500
/local-news/984e31db639c66331608b38533cf1c14
(Winchester, IN)--The woman who is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher is due back in court Monday. A Randolph County judge will set bond in the case of Maci Atkinson. Atkinson has been held without bond since her arrest following a police chase that ended shortly after Fisher was struck and killed. Atkinson’s hearing is set for 2 o’clock Monday afternoon. Her trial is currently set for late January, although that will almost certainly be pushed back.
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(Winchester, IN)--The woman who is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher is due back in court Monday. A Randolph County judge will set bond in the case of Maci Atkinson. Atkinson has been held without bond since her arrest following a police chase that ended shortly after Fisher was struck and killed. Atkinson’s hearing is set for 2 o’clock Monday afternoon. Her trial is currently set for late January, although that will almost certainly be pushed back.
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