PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Prestonsburg woman is facing charges after a vehicle struck a pedestrian Saturday afternoon in Floyd County.

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers responded around 12:45 p.m. May 30 to a reported vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision on Ky. 1428 in Prestonsburg.

Police said the pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries and was flown to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The driver, identified as Julia Vanderpool, 55, of Prestonsburg, remained at the scene and was questioned by investigators. According to an arrest citation, Vanderpool told troopers she had taken prescribed medications, including Neurontin and Xanax, earlier in the day.

Troopers administered a standard field sobriety test. Following the investigation, Vanderpool was arrested and charged with first-degree assault and first-offense DUI.

She was taken to Highlands ARH for a blood draw before being lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center.

The incident remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Authorities have identified the man who drowned Friday evening at Dewey Lake.

Floyd County Coroner Greg Nelson identified the victim as 22-year-old Damon Adams of Prestonsburg.

According to emergency officials, a 911 call was received at approximately 7:22 p.m. reporting that a swimmer had gone underwater near the main channel of Dewey Lake and did not resurface.

A large-scale search effort followed, involving Prestonsburg Police, Prestonsburg Fire Department, Floyd County Rescue Squad, Floyd County Emergency Management, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

First responders located Adams at the bottom of the lake's main channel at approximately 8:48 p.m.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, which has jurisdiction over incidents on Kentucky waterways, is continuing to investigate the drowning.

The incident remains under investigation.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A search for a missing swimmer in Dewey Lake ended tragically Friday evening when emergency crews recovered the body of a man from the water.

According to Prestonsburg Police, the Prestonsburg/Floyd County Emergency Communications Center received a call at approximately 7:22 p.m. reporting an unaccounted-for swimmer in the area of the main channel near Swimming Pool Hollow.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including Prestonsburg Police, Prestonsburg Fire and EMS, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

At approximately 8:48 p.m., fire and EMS water rescue technicians located a deceased male at the bottom of the main channel.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, which has jurisdiction over waterway incidents, is leading the investigation. No additional information has been released.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky’s regional driver licensing offices will temporarily close next week as the state transitions to a new licensing system.

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, all regional offices will be closed Thursday, June 4, and Friday, June 5, while the new system is installed.

The upgrade will replace Kentucky’s current licensing platform, which has been in use for nearly 40 years. The new system will include an online portal called myDrive.

The portal will allow residents to pre-apply for a driver’s license, permit or ID card, request replacement cards, check the status of their license and access other licensing services online.

State officials are encouraging anyone with upcoming licensing needs to visit an office before the temporary closure if possible.

All regional driver licensing offices are scheduled to reopen Monday, June 8.

LONDON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County woman has been indicted on federal drug trafficking charges stemming from an investigation in Pike County.

A federal grand jury in London indicted Gretchen L. Bevins, 46, of David, on charges of distributing methamphetamine and possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

According to court records, Bevins was arrested April 1 after officers with the Pikeville Police Department executed a search warrant at a room she was occupying at the Comfort Inn in Pikeville.

Police reported finding suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine and various pills during the search. Officers also allegedly recovered cash, packaging materials and substances commonly used to dilute illegal drugs.

The indictment alleges Bevins possessed more than 50 grams of a methamphetamine mixture and more than 40 grams of fentanyl.

If convicted, Bevins faces up to 30 years in prison on the distribution charge. The possession charge carries a potential sentence ranging from 10 years to life in prison because of a prior felony drug conviction.

Court records show Bevins was sentenced in federal court in 2019 to 45 months in prison and five years of supervised release for a methamphetamine conspiracy conviction.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County man is scheduled to stand trial next month on a charge involving the alleged sexual abuse of a child.

Natalio Ramirez, 42, of Island Creek Road, was indicted in August 2021 on one count of first-degree rape. Court records state he is accused of abusing a child younger than 12 between December 2018 and September 2020.

The case was dismissed in November 2022 at the request of the child’s mother. Prosecutors agreed to the dismissal after the mother reportedly promised to keep the children away from Ramirez.

However, the case was reinstated in April 2025 after prosecutors learned Ramirez allegedly still had contact with the children. Court filings also state he was being investigated for allegations involving another child.

Ramirez is currently scheduled to go on trial June 22 in Pike Circuit Court. The trial could be delayed, as another case is also scheduled before the same judge that day.

If convicted, Ramirez could face a sentence ranging from 20 years to life in prison.

Ramirez is currently scheduled to go on trial June 22 in Pike Circuit Court. The trial could be delayed, as another case is also scheduled before the same judge that day.

If convicted, Ramirez could face a sentence ranging from 20 years to life in prison.

ALLEN, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man was arrested Tuesday after deputies say they caught him inside a home during a burglary in progress in Allen.

According to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy responded to Railroad Street after receiving a report of a burglary at a residence. When the deputy arrived, neighbors reportedly told him the suspect was still inside the home.

The deputy entered the residence and found Hiram Carroll, 34, of Printer, inside the house and took him into custody.

The homeowner later showed deputies extensive damage throughout the residence. The damage reportedly included removed plumbing, damaged door facings and wood removed from closets and stacked against walls inside the home. Authorities estimated the damage at several thousand dollars.

According to the arrest citation, Carroll told deputies he believed the home had been purchased by Job Corps and was going to be demolished. He allegedly said he was gathering materials to use in repairs at his mother’s home.

Carroll was charged with second-degree burglary and first-degree criminal mischief. He is being held in the Floyd County Detention Center on a $25,000 cash bond.

LOUISA, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lawrence County man has been indicted on arson-related charges after investigators say he intentionally set fire to two trailers on a relative’s property earlier this year.

According to court records, 71-year-old Lonnie Lee Parker, of Louisa, was indicted on charges of second-degree arson and first-degree criminal mischief.

The investigation began in March after the Blaine Volunteer Fire Department responded to reports of two trailers on fire along Finch Lane.

Witnesses reportedly provided deputies with a description of a vehicle seen near the property around the time the fires started. Deputies later located Parker and questioned him about his activities that day.

According to the arrest citation, Parker told deputies he had gone to buy a battery for his truck before setting fire to the two trailers. Investigators said Parker told them his niece wanted the trailers removed from the property and that he believed burning them would help her sell the land.

The citation states Parker admitted finding old clothing inside one of the trailers, setting the items on fire and then leaving the scene.

Authorities said the fire also caused damage to a neighboring home.

Parker was indicted earlier this month and arrested Monday. He is currently being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a $20,000 cash bond.

*Photo courtesy of Big Sandy Regional Detention Center

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man is facing methamphetamine trafficking charges following a traffic stop in Prestonsburg.

According to an arrest citation, Floyd County deputies stopped a 2019 Nissan Altima on May 26 after recognizing the driver as 22-year-old Damon Jewell of Dwale and confirming his driver’s license was suspended.

Deputies reported that Jewell appeared nervous during the stop. A K9 unit was called to the scene, and the dog alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.

During a search, deputies said they found a bag containing a clear crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine. The substance was marked as weighing approximately one-half ounce.

Deputies also reported finding a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun inside the vehicle.

According to the citation, Jewell denied ownership of the suspected methamphetamine but told deputies the firearm belonged to him.

Jewell was arrested and taken to the Floyd County Detention Center. He is charged with first-degree enhanced trafficking in a controlled substance involving methamphetamine and driving on a suspended license.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County woman is facing a felony assault charge after Kentucky State Police say an argument over a song turned violent.

Police were called around 3 a.m. Sunday after a man reported that his girlfriend had cut him with a knife. Troopers later found him walking along Hurricane Road with blood on his arm.

The man told police the argument started after he talked about a song that was meaningful to him. He said Heavan Renee Hall, 23, of Pikeville, became upset, punched him in the face and cut him on the knuckle of his index finger as he tried to leave.

He also told police both had been drinking, which he believed may have contributed to the argument.

When troopers spoke with Hall, she reportedly said she cut him because he repeatedly refused to leave the home.

Hall was arrested and charged with second-degree assault. The charge is a felony punishable by five to 10 years in prison.

PIKE COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike County traffic stop last week led to a drug trafficking arrest, Kentucky State Police say.

According to the arrest citation, troopers stopped 41-year-old Jennifer Little of Elkhorn City around 5:30 p.m. May 21 on U.S. 460 in the Millard area after allegedly clocking her at 54 mph in a 45 mph zone. The vehicle then pulled into the parking lot of the Millard Double Kwik.

Police say Little denied having anything illegal in the vehicle and refused consent for a search.

Troopers reported becoming suspicious because of what they described as nervous behavior and conflicting statements about where she had been.

Police began conducting field sobriety tests and told Little she was being detained while a K-9 unit was called to perform an exterior sniff of the vehicle.

At that point, troopers say Little admitted there were drugs inside the vehicle.

Investigators say a search uncovered a bag behind the driver’s seat containing a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine and a brown powder believed to be fentanyl.

Little was charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance involving methamphetamine, aggravated trafficking in a controlled substance involving fentanyl, speeding, and driving too fast for conditions.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County woman has been sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty in a methamphetamine conspiracy case.

Stephanie Hall, 33, of Maytown, was sentenced Thursday in Lexington to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

According to court records, Hall was arrested in May 2024 following a traffic stop in McDowell. Investigators said a Kentucky State Police trooper found approximately 215 grams of methamphetamine in a bag near Hall’s feet inside the vehicle.

Hall and her passenger, 31-year-old Briana Hope Hunter of McDowell, both denied knowing about the drugs at the time, but both were arrested.

Federal prosecutors later charged both women with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Hall pleaded guilty to the charge, which carries a sentencing range of five to 40 years in prison.

Hunter has also pleaded guilty to the same charge. Her sentencing is scheduled for June 25 in Lexington.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two Salyersville women have been indicted in Magoffin County in connection with the alleged abuse of a child under the age of 12.

Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Friday that a Magoffin County Grand Jury indicted 26-year-old Destiny Brown and 36-year-old Melissa Howard on one count each of first-degree criminal abuse involving a child 12 or younger, a Class B felony.

According to the indictment, the alleged abuse happened between October 2024 and July 2025.

Court records allege Howard, who had custody of the child, withheld food as punishment, confined the child inside the home without access to food or bathroom facilities, and physically abused the child. Brown is also accused of physically abusing the child and withholding food and bathroom access.

Kentucky State Police investigated the case. The indictment is an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A West Liberty man died Friday evening after a workplace incident involving live power lines in Johnson County.

According to emergency responders, crews were dispatched around 6:34 p.m. to Foothills Communications in the Staffordsville area after receiving a report of a worker who had come into contact with live power lines.

When first responders arrived, they found the man in a man-lift basket approximately 30 to 35 feet in the air and still in contact with the power lines. The area was secured, and Ky. Route 40 was shut down in both directions.

AEP Kentucky Power was called to de-energize the lines, and Foothills Communications’ standby generator was also shut down as a precaution to prevent backfeed, causing a temporary disruption in some services.

Once the scene was made safe, responders removed the worker from the lift and brought him to the ground, where the Johnson County Coroner’s Office pronounced him dead.

The victim was identified as 48-year-old Jonathon Brown of West Liberty.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson County Coroner’s Office and Oil Springs Fire & Rescue are investigating.

Agencies assisting at the scene included WR Castle Fire and Rescue, Paintsville Fire and EMS, Paintsville/Johnson County Emergency Management and the Johnson County Constable’s Office for traffic control.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky officials say more than $105 million in federal disaster funding is headed to hospitals and emergency management agencies across the state to cover expenses tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The reimbursement funding comes through FEMA and covers costs and damages incurred between January 2020 and May 11, 2023, under the federal COVID-19 major disaster declaration. State officials said the money helped cover expenses including patient care, protective equipment, medical supplies, contract labor, medications and other emergency protective measures.

Appalachian Regional Healthcare is set to receive nearly $22.9 million, while Pikeville Medical Center will receive just under $1.45 million. Other recipients include Baptist Health, AdventHealth Manchester, T.J. Samson Community Hospital, UofL Health and Kentucky Emergency Management.

Kentucky Emergency Management will receive the largest share of the funding at more than $41.8 million. State leaders say the reimbursements are being processed so the money can be put to use as healthcare systems continue facing financial and operational challenges

FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lexington woman was arrested in Floyd County following a traffic stop that led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, according to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

An arrest citation says deputies stopped a 2017 Jaguar XE on May 21 along Ky. 80 after observing the vehicle cross the double yellow line several times while the driver was allegedly using a cell phone.

The driver, identified as 44-year-old Priscella Dawn Smith of Chestnut Street, was reported to be visibly nervous during the stop.

Deputies later deployed a K9, which alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle, according to the citation.

A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered approximately one pound of a substance believed to be methamphetamine, along with $1,017 in cash in smaller bills. Deputies also reported finding a set of scales with suspected drug residue.

Smith was taken to the Floyd County Detention Center and charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and unlawful use of a communication device.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — The father of a man charged in connection with the Amber Spradlin murder case is asking the court to remove a condition of his release that keeps him on home incarceration.

Attorneys for Dr. Michael K. McKinney filed the motion Thursday, asking the court to end the home incarceration and electronic monitoring requirement tied to his bond.

McKinney has been charged with multiple counts of evidence tampering in connection to Spradlin's death. Court records show he remains free on a $250,000 full cash bond.

In the filing, McKinney’s attorneys argued he has complied with all conditions of his release, has appeared for required court proceedings and has not committed any violations while out on bond.

The motion argues the current restrictions make it more difficult for McKinney to meet with attorneys and assist in preparing his defense.

The filing asks the court to modify the terms of his release and remove the home incarceration requirement while keeping the remaining bond conditions in place.

As of Thursday afternoon, there has been no ruling to this request. 

INEZ, Ky. (WMDJ) — Five eastern Kentucky health departments are joining forces in a new regional effort aimed at improving long-term health outcomes across the mountains.

Health departments in Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin and Pike counties announced the launch of the Mountain Wellness Collaborative on Wednesday during a gathering at the Martin County Health Department in Inez.

Officials say the partnership is focused on prevention, health education and expanding access to resources to help address chronic health issues that continue to affect the region.

The collaborative will target concerns including heart disease, diabetes, obesity and hypertension, which remain widespread across Appalachian Kentucky. State public health data shows some eastern Kentucky counties have diabetes rates significantly above the national average, while obesity and smoking rates also remain high.

Health leaders say the partnership is designed to address the underlying factors that contribute to poor health, including lifestyle habits, access to care and other social barriers that can make healthy living more difficult.

The five departments say by combining resources, ideas and expertise, they hope to create stronger prevention programs and improve wellness efforts across the region.

Officials say community organizations, healthcare agencies and other wellness-focused partners are invited to join the initiative as it moves forward.

*Photo Courtesy of the Martin County Health Department. 

Pictured left to right: Eric Mills (Martin County Health Department), Tammy Riley (Pike County Health Department), Martha Ellis (Floyd County Health Department), Pete Shepherd (Magoffin County Health Department), and Ezalee Pigman (Johnson County Health Department).

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky State Police Post 9 is taking part in a multi-state traffic safety campaign aimed at increasing seat belt use and reducing roadway deaths.

The enforcement effort runs through May 25 as part of the 6-State Trooper Project, which includes law enforcement agencies in Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

During the campaign, troopers will increase patrols on interstates, state highways and rural roads, with a focus on drivers and passengers who are not wearing seat belts or are not properly restrained.

State police say the campaign is meant to improve visibility and remind motorists that seat belt laws are being actively enforced across the region.

Last year, participating agencies issued more than 6,800 seat belt citations during a similar enforcement effort. Kentucky State Police accounted for 807 of those violations, along with 43 child safety seat citations.

Officials say properly wearing a seat belt can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — State officials say Kentucky posted its strongest first quarter on record for private-sector economic investment, with more than $7 billion in announced and approved projects through the first four months of 2026.

According to the governor’s office, Kentucky has now secured more than $50 billion in private-sector investment and more than 70,000 new jobs in recent years.

Several major projects were highlighted in the latest announcement, including a $7.3 million manufacturing investment in Perry County expected to create 60 full-time jobs.

Other projects include a $1.76 billion uranium enrichment facility in McCracken County, a $113 million logistics campus in Bullitt County, a $142 million waste-to-energy facility in western Kentucky and an expansion project in Boone County.

State officials also reported average wages for incentivized projects have continued to rise, topping $31 per hour so far in 2026.

The announcement also pointed to record export numbers in 2025, with Kentucky businesses shipping more than $50 billion in products globally.

State officials also announced a new initiative called New Kentucky Home, a statewide marketing campaign aimed at promoting Kentucky’s economy, tourism, quality of life and communities to businesses, workers and visitors.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County voters went to the polls Tuesday for the 2026 primary election, with turnout just under 25 percent.

According to unofficial results, 6,659 ballots were cast out of 26,643 registered voters, for an overall turnout of 24.99 percent. Democratic turnout was 26.04 percent, while Republican turnout was 28.21 percent.

In the Republican race for Floyd County Judge-Executive, Debbie “Doc” Hall narrowly defeated Doug Hopkins, 1,127 votes to 1,006. Mason Glenn Tackett received 76 votes.

In the Republican primary for state representative, Tanner Hesterberg defeated Willie Crase Jr., 1,378 to 816.

In the Republican Magistrate District 2 race, Randy K. Davis defeated Dylan Kyle Patton, 359 to 95.

In the Democratic primary for jailer, Steve Little defeated Steve R. Montgomery, 2,887 votes to 1,301.

For Democratic U.S. Senate, Amy McGrath led Floyd County with 1,645 votes, followed by Charles Booker with 1,121. Booker went on the win the Democratic primary for the Senate seat.

Republican voters in Floyd County backed Andy Barr for U.S. Senate with 1,188 votes, ahead of Daniel Cameron with 735. Barr had secured the Republican nomination earlier in the evening. 

In the Republican race for U.S. House, longtime Congressman Hal Rogers led the field in Floyd County with 1,723 votes. Rogers secured the Republican nomination earlier in the evening. 

In Democratic magistrate races, George Isaac won District 2 with 404 votes, while Mike Tackett won District 3 with 790 votes.

In the Democratic constable race for District 3, Ernie Ray Moore defeated Gary Dean Tackett, 697 to 589.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two more families affected by the devastating 2022 Eastern Kentucky floods are one step closer to a fresh start, as state and local leaders gathered Monday in Floyd County to celebrate the completion of two new homes at New Hope Estates.

Gov. Andy Beshear joined community and nonprofit leaders for a ribbon-cutting at the high-ground housing development, where one of the homes is ready for immediate move-in and the second is expected to be completed within the next few weeks.

New Hope Estates, located in Floyd County, is expected to include 34 homes when complete, with flood survivors receiving priority placement. The state provided $10 million toward the project for land acquisition and site preparation.

Another home is already framed and expected to be finished within the next two months, with additional construction planned in the coming weeks.

The homes recognized Monday were built by Frontier Housing.

The development is part of Kentucky’s broader flood recovery housing effort across Eastern Kentucky. In Floyd County, the Wayland high ground neighborhood has already been completed with 14 homes for flood survivors.

State officials say more than 500 homes are planned across several Eastern Kentucky counties as part of long-term disaster recovery efforts.

ASHLAND, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Paintsville man will spend 25 years in federal prison after being sentenced Friday in a child exploitation case involving a teenage victim.

Henry Jonathan Ritscher, 44, previously pleaded guilty to producing child pornography in federal court. Court records show the charge stemmed from incidents involving a 15-year-old girl who was a guest in his home.

Investigators said the case came to light in September after the teen discovered a video of herself on Ritscher’s phone while waiting in a vehicle during a pizza pickup.

Authorities later determined Ritscher had secretly recorded the girl while she was showering and changing clothes over a period of roughly 18 months.

As part of his sentence, Ritscher was ordered to complete a sex offender treatment program while incarcerated. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for 15 years following his release from prison.

Ritscher was taken into custody following Friday’s sentencing hearing.

JACKSON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Breathitt County man died early Sunday following a two-vehicle crash in the Jackson community.

Kentucky State Police say the collision happened around 1:51 a.m. on KY-15. Investigators say a 41-year-old Lost Creek man was driving a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado northbound when the truck crossed the center line and struck a southbound Perry County Ambulance that was returning to its station.

The driver of the pickup was pronounced dead at the scene by the Breathitt County Coroner’s Office.

Two ambulance crew members were taken to Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center for precautionary treatment.

Investigators say the pickup driver was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, while the other occupants involved were restrained.

Toxicology results are pending, and an autopsy has been scheduled.

The crash remains under investigation.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man facing federal drug trafficking and firearm charges will remain in custody while his case moves toward trial.

David Lee Ousley, 44, of Martin, was arrested in January after investigators executed a search warrant at his home and reportedly seized a large quantity of suspected drugs, cash, and firearms.

The case later moved to federal court, where Ousley was indicted on charges including conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime.

A detention hearing was held this week in federal court in Frankfort to determine whether Ousley could be released while awaiting trial.

A federal magistrate judge ruled Wednesday that Ousley should remain in custody, finding that no release conditions would reasonably ensure public safety or prevent further criminal activity.

According to the detention order, the decision was based on the seriousness of the charges, concerns about the potential for reoffending, and Ousley’s reported criminal history and other background factors.

Ousley is being held at the Grayson County Detention Center. His trial is currently scheduled to begin June 11.

Original story on David Lee Ousley's arrest can be found here.

*Photo courtesy of the Grayson County Detention Center

LETCHER COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A man is in custody following a standoff with Kentucky State Police early Friday morning in Letcher County.

According to KSP, troopers were called around 4:12 a.m. May 15 to Buck Road in the Whitesburg area for a reported domestic violence assault.

Investigators said the people involved in the incident had gone to a nearby home. When troopers attempted to make contact there, a man allegedly barricaded himself inside with several other people and refused to come out.

During the standoff, one man and two women exited the home and told troopers that 36-year-old Dusty Shell of Emmalena remained inside with a firearm, along with another man.

State police secured the area and called in the agency’s Special Response Team. Authorities said negotiations were successful, and Shell surrendered without incident.

Shell was taken to the Letcher County Jail on charges including second-degree assault (domestic violence), second-degree terroristic threatening and a parole violation.

KSP also said 45-year-old Amy Griffith of Hindman was arrested at the scene on an unrelated out-of-state warrant.

The investigation is ongoing.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A group of Adams Middle School students is earning recognition for developing projects aimed at solving real-world problems, from flood monitoring to mental health support and physical rehabilitation.

Three student teams represented the school during Kentucky’s state STLP competition on April 24, with multiple projects earning honors.

One team captured first place with Flood Guard, a project focused on creating an affordable way to monitor rising water in flood-prone areas. Students designed the system using inexpensive materials as an alternative to higher-cost monitoring technology, with the goal of helping communities track creek and stream levels more easily.

Another team earned runner-up honors for Comfort Bear, a project created to support children dealing with anxiety. The portable device is designed to encourage calming techniques and provide emotional support in stressful moments.

Adams Middle’s Robotic Rehabilitation Glove also advanced during state competition and gained additional recognition through Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow program, where it advanced to the national stage. The project was developed as a potential at-home therapy tool for individuals recovering from hand injuries or managing conditions that affect hand movement.

School officials say all three teams have now been invited to showcase their work at the International Society for Technology in Education Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Efforts are now underway to raise funding to help all nine student participants make the trip. Donations can be made through Adams Middle School, with “STEAM donation” included in the memo line.

The projects will also be on display during the CEDAR Coal Fair, scheduled for May 19 through May 21 at the University of Pikeville.

TOMAHAWK, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Martin County man is facing charges following a drug investigation in Tomahawk.

According to court documents, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a home on Gayle Carter Road after a traffic stop earlier in the day reportedly led investigators to the location.

Documents state marijuana was found during that traffic stop, and the individual involved later provided a written statement claiming the drugs had been purchased from the residence.

Investigators also noted they had previously received complaints alleging illegal drug activity at the home.

Court records show deputies searched the home, vehicles on the property, and individuals present during the warrant service. Items reportedly seized included suspected marijuana, drug paraphernalia, cash, and multiple firearms.

According to court documents, investigators recovered more than 12 ounces of suspected marijuana and more than $13,000 in cash.

Tyler Harrison Harless was charged with marijuana trafficking and possession of drug paraphernalia.

He was lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

IVEL, Ky. (WMDJ) — In Floyd County, an Ivel man was jailed Tuesday after deputies say they found two young children outside unsupervised during a disturbance call in the Ivy Creek area.

According to an arrest citation, deputies responded to an apartment on May 13 after receiving a complaint. When deputies arrived, they reportedly found two small children outside near the roadway crying without adult supervision.

The citation states deputies entered the apartment and heard yelling coming from an upstairs room. Authorities said 39-year-old William E. Hohenecker was found lying on the floor inside a bedroom. A juvenile at the home reportedly told deputies Hohenecker had consumed a large amount of vodka.

Deputies said Hohenecker initially spoke with them, but became aggressive and took what was described as a fighting stance while threatening an officer. While deputies attempted to take him into custody, the citation states Hohenecker resisted and kicked an officer several times while being escorted downstairs.

Authorities also allege Hohenecker threatened deputies at the scene and damaged equipment inside a patrol vehicle while being transported for medical clearance. The citation further states he later spit on an officer during the transport process.

Hohenecker was taken to the Floyd County Detention Center following medical clearance. He is charged with assaulting an officer involving bodily fluids, three counts of endangering the welfare of a minor, three counts of terroristic threatening, menacing, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and resisting arrest.

He was lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Paintsville man is facing a felony charge after authorities said he was not in compliance with Kentucky’s sex offender registry requirements.

According to an arrest citation, 48-year-old Jessie Ward was identified as non-compliant during a separate investigation on Monday, May 12.

Court records indicate Ward is required to remain on the registry for 20 years following a prior conviction.

Investigators said Ward acknowledged he was aware of the compliance issue and claimed he had mailed paperwork to address it.

Authorities also determined Ward was no longer living at the address listed on the registry, according to the citation.

Records further show Ward had a previous arrest for a registry violation in 2020.

Ward was taken to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center and charged with failure to comply with sex offender registration, second or greater offense.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Multiple schools across Eastern Kentucky and southern West Virginia responded to threatening calls Wednesday, prompting lockdowns, police responses, and precautionary safety measures.

In Prestonsburg, police responded to Prestonsburg High School after an anonymous caller claimed he was on the way to the school with a pipe bomb. Authorities said the caller did not claim to already be on campus, nor did they indicate a bomb was currently at the school.

The Prestonsburg Police Department said interior and exterior sweeps were completed at Prestonsburg High School, along with precautionary sweeps at Adams Middle School and Prestonsburg Elementary School. Police said no evidence was found to substantiate the threat.

Officials said the call matched the same computer-generated number style linked to similar threats reported in recent weeks. The department said it is working with the Kentucky Intelligence Fusion Center and the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security as the incidents appear consistent with recurring SWATing-style threats.

Additional officers were placed at area schools as a precaution.

Other schools reporting similar threats Wednesday included Floyd Central High School and Betsy Layne High School in Floyd County, Pikeville High School and Pikeville Elementary in Pike County, and Mingo Central High School in neighboring West Virginia, where school officials said safety protocols were immediately implemented, law enforcement responded, and students and staff were reported safe.

Authorities said each threat is being taken seriously, even when no credible danger is immediately found.

MARTIN COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Martin County man is facing felony charges after Kentucky State Police said he falsely reported his side-by-side as stolen in an attempt to collect insurance money.

According to an arrest citation, a trooper was called Sunday to the home of 62-year-old Larry Delong, of Tomahawk, to investigate the reported theft of a 2021 Kawasaki side-by-side valued at about $10,000.

Police said Delong claimed he had been away fishing all weekend and discovered the vehicle missing when he returned home.

However, when the trooper spoke with neighbors, investigators were told Delong had been home throughout the weekend and that the neighbors had also been home, contradicting Delong’s account.

The citation said neighbors also reported seeing Delong driving a different side-by-side in recent weeks.

When confronted about the conflicting information, police said Delong admitted he made up the theft report. Investigators said he told them he had left the side-by-side at an old strip mine, hoping it would be stolen or destroyed so he could file an insurance claim.

Delong was charged with insurance fraud over $10,000 and falsely reporting an incident.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County woman is facing charges after police said she appeared impaired during an incident at a local hospital involving children.

According to an arrest citation from Paintsville Police, officers were called May 5 to an ARH Hospital for a reported situation involving a woman who appeared to be under the influence.

Police said 45-year-old Amy Wells, of Thelma, told officers she had used methamphetamine before arriving at the hospital by ambulance with two minors.

During the investigation, police learned two other children had reportedly been left alone at Wells’ home.

Officers believed Wells’ condition placed all four children at risk.

Wells was charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and public intoxication involving a controlled substance.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd County voters will have several opportunities to cast ballots early ahead of the May primary election.

County officials say no-excuse in-person early voting will be available Thursday, May 14, through Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. each day. Any qualified registered voter may vote during those times.

Officials also noted there will be no in-person voting available Monday, May 18.

Early voting locations include the following:

• Big Sandy Area Development District building at 110 Resource Court in Prestonsburg
• Floyd County Community Center in Langley
• Floyd County Clerk’s McDowell Branch Office
• Floyd County Clerk’s Betsy Layne Branch Office

Officials say the Prestonsburg voting location has changed from the Stumbo/Wilkerson Convention Center to the Big Sandy Area Development District building for this election cycle.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ)  — The murder trial for three men charged in connection with the death of Amber Spradlin has been delayed until next year after a hearing Monday focused heavily on unfinished forensic testing in the case.

M.K. McKinney, Dr. Michael McKinney and Josh Mullins had been scheduled to go to trial this week. However, Judge Eddy Coleman ruled the case should be postponed after hearing testimony from a supervisor with the Kentucky State Police forensic crime lab.

The court heard the state crime lab has received 145 pieces of evidence connected to the case, not including electronic evidence. According to testimony, the lab normally handles evidence in batches of 10 items, but the Spradlin case involves five separate submissions containing far more evidence than usual.

KSP Forensic Lab Supervisor Davey McCann testified evidence must be processed carefully to avoid contamination. Each item is screened, pretested and tested individually before going through reporting and peer review. The court heard that process can take as long as eight months for a single submission of 10 pieces of evidence.

According to testimony, one submission in the case contained 41 pieces of evidence, another contained 36 items and a fifth submission included 50 pieces of evidence. Two DNA submissions are still pending completion, with one expected to finish review by the end of May and another possibly taking until late summer or early fall.

Prosecutors argued the remaining forensic testing is important to both the murder charge against M.K. McKinney and tampering charges involving the co-defendants. Defense attorneys also said the unfinished evidence is important to ensuring a fair trial.

Judge Coleman ultimately ruled the trial should be continued in the interest of justice and rescheduled the case for Jan. 11, 2027. Another pretrial conference is scheduled for Sept. 17

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Huntington, West Virginia man has pleaded guilty to a federal drug charge after authorities said he was caught transporting fentanyl into Pike County.

According to federal court records, 30-year-old Donte Hendricks pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court in Lexington to possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl.

The charge stems from a traffic stop conducted on Ratliff’s Creek Road in Pike County on Feb. 26, 2025.

Authorities said Pikeville Police received information that Hendricks would be bringing a large quantity of fentanyl into the area. Police were given a description of both Hendricks and the vehicle he was driving before locating and stopping the vehicle.

During the investigation, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office assisted by bringing a K-9 unit to the scene. Authorities reported seizing 103.6 grams of fentanyl and $917 in cash during the stop.

Court records show Hendricks previously asked the court to suppress the evidence collected during the traffic stop, arguing police lacked reasonable suspicion to stop him or prolong the investigation while waiting for the K-9 unit.

A judge denied that request in December. However, Hendricks’ plea agreement allows him to appeal that ruling. If an appeals court later suppresses the evidence, he would be allowed to withdraw his guilty plea.

Hendricks is scheduled to be sentenced Aug. 6 in Lexington and faces between five and 40 years in federal prison.

PAINTSVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Johnson County man was arrested shortly after being released from the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center after authorities said he set fires inside the jail’s lobby bathrooms.

According to court documents, 21-year-old Dillon Smothers, who has addresses listed in both Boons Camp and Inez, was first arrested on May 7 on a charge of public intoxication.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office responded after a Staffordsville resident reported a suspicious person on her porch who may have needed assistance.

Court documents state Smothers told authorities he had walked from a rehab facility along U.S. 460. Deputies reported observing signs of intoxication.

Jail records show Smothers was lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center at 6:49 p.m. and released at 4:07 a.m. Friday.

According to a second arrest citation, the Paintsville Police Department was called back to the jail around 6:45 a.m. after jail staff reported fires had been set in two lobby bathrooms.

The citation said smoke filled the lobby area and damage was reported to a sink in the women’s bathroom.

Authorities later located Smothers at a nearby gas station, where he was allegedly holding a lighter. Court documents state Smothers admitted to starting a fire inside the jail because he was cold.

Smothers was booked back into the detention center at 7:28 a.m. on a charge of second-degree criminal mischief.

The citation said smoke filled the lobby area and damage was reported to a sink in the women’s bathroom.

Meade wrote that he later located Smothers at a nearby gas station, where he was allegedly holding a lighter. The citation states Smothers admitted to starting a fire inside the jail because he was cold.

Smothers was booked back into the detention center at 7:28 a.m. on a charge of second-degree criminal mischief.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Floyd County man is facing felony wanton endangerment and other charges after police said he left a woman and her five month old child along Route 114 following a domestic incident.

According to Prestonsburg Police, a woman came to Prestonsburg City Hall on Sunday asking to speak with officers. She told police she and her infant child had been riding with 43-year-old Michael Ousley, of Auxier, to the Prestonsburg Village Shopping Center.

The woman told officers Ousley appeared agitated during the drive and believed it was related to her getting a new job.

Police said the woman reported Ousley suddenly made a U-turn in the shopping center parking lot and drove at a high rate of speed toward Route 114 while the infant was no longer secured in a car seat.

The woman said she repeatedly asked Ousley to stop. She told police he eventually pulled over near Archer Park, where he allegedly attempted to strike her and grabbed her by the hair as she tried to leave the vehicle with the child.

Police said the woman was able to get away and was taken to the police station by another driver who reportedly witnessed the incident.

Ousley was later arrested outside his home. He is charged with felony wanton endangerment, misdemeanor assault and multiple traffic violations.

MCDOWELL, Ky. (WMDJ) — A McDowell man is facing multiple charges, including meth trafficking, following an incident during a traffic safety checkpoint in Floyd County.

According to court documents, Floyd County Sheriff’s deputies were conducting a checkpoint May 4 in McDowell when a red passenger car allegedly turned quickly onto Magnolia Street without using a signal.

Investigators say deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver fled on foot into a nearby thicket after stopping.

Authorities say a K9 alerted to suspected narcotics inside the vehicle. Deputies reportedly found three baggies containing a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine, along with identification belonging to 29-year-old Dalton Boone Frasure of Ky. 680.

Court records state Frasure was already wanted on an active arrest warrant.

Investigators say a K9 tracked the suspect for several hundred yards before deputies went to Frasure’s last known residence. According to the citation, a relative allowed deputies inside, where Frasure was found lying on a bed.

Frasure was lodged in the Floyd County Detention Center on charges including first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second-degree fleeing or evading police on foot and traffic violations.

HI HAT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two Floyd County residents are facing misdemeanor child abuse charges following an investigation involving social services and the Kentucky State Police.

According to court documents, investigators responded Tuesday, May 5, to a home on Ky. 122 at Hi Hat belonging to 55-year-old Scotty Lee Greene and 49-year-old Patricia Annette Greene.

Authorities say they were given consent to enter the home and check living conditions where a child had been staying.

The citation states responders found a basement bedroom used by the child with a wooden barrier attached to the outside of the door, allegedly preventing the child from leaving during nighttime hours. Investigators also reported finding a camera monitoring the room and an alarm system on the door.

According to the citation, mold was observed in the basement, along with a strong musty odor. The bedroom reportedly smelled strongly of urine, and what appeared to be human feces was found in one corner.

The child reportedly told investigators they were locked in the room at night and had to knock to be let out to use the restroom.

Both Greene and Greene were cited on charges of third-degree criminal abuse involving a child 12 or younger. They are scheduled to appear in court May 20.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Two of the three men charged in connection with the death of Amber Spradlin are supporting a request to delay the upcoming trial.

Dr. Michael McKinney and Josh Mullins, who are both charged with tampering with physical evidence, filed responses in support of Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner’s renewed motion to continue the trial.

Turner has cited outstanding evidence testing that he says could be important to the case.

Attorneys for MK McKinney, who is charged with murder and tampering with physical evidence, have opposed further delays and continue to request a speedy trial.

In their filings, attorneys for Michael McKinney and Mullins said a delay is needed to ensure all relevant evidence is obtained, shared and reviewed before trial. They also said some of the pending evidence could potentially help the defense.

The filings point to forensic testing involving blood evidence and a handprint, saying the results could affect defense arguments about another person who was reportedly in the home that night.

A judge has also indicated the court may discuss whether MK McKinney’s co-defendants should be tried separately.

All three defendants are expected back in court Monday for a pretrial conference. Jury selection is currently scheduled to begin Tuesday, unless the judge changes that schedule.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Multiple schools across Kentucky including Floyd and Johnson counties were placed on alert Wednesday morning following a series of threats that authorities now believe are part of a broader hoax.

Officials say Betsy Layne Elementary was among the first impacted, receiving what was described as an unclear threat. The school was placed on lockdown while law enforcement responded. No weapon was found, and the lockdown was later lifted.

Floyd Central High School was also placed on lockdown after receiving a similar threat.

In Johnson County, police responded to a bomb threat at Johnson Central High School. It was reported that K-9 Units were going to do a sweep of the school since it was designated as a bomb threat.

Authorities say all students at the affected schools are safe.

Prestonsburg Police report the threats appear to be coming from spoofed, internet-based phone applications and may be part of “swatting” incidents. The department says dozens of officers responded within minutes to the initial call at Betsy Layne Elementary, and response procedures were followed as intended.

The police did want to reassure the public that all Floyd County Schools have a designated School Resource Officer on a full time basis. The SRO at Betsy Layne Elementary made the initial report according to PPD. 

Kentucky State Police confirmed similar threats have been reported across the Commonwealth. Investigators say none of the threats have been deemed credible so far, and early findings suggest they may be tied to a robocalling campaign.

Law enforcement agencies, including Prestonsburg Police, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police, are continuing to investigate. Officials say all threats are taken seriously and will be fully investigated.

HAZARD, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Perry County man charged with murder in connection to a deadly UTV crash has pleaded guilty in a separate federal case.

Court officials say 26-year-old Noah Back, of Vicco, entered a guilty plea Friday to transporting a minor across state lines for illegal sexual activity.

He faces a sentence ranging from ten years to life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September.

According to court documents, the federal investigation began after a UTV crash on February 28 in the Vicco area. Four people were in the vehicle, including two 16-year-old girls. One of them, Emilynn Clark, died from her injuries.

Investigators later reviewed social media posts following the crash that raised concerns about a relationship between Back and one of the surviving teens.

An affidavit states the FBI conducted a forensic interview with the minor in March. The teen told investigators the relationship began when she was in middle school and involved ongoing communication and in-person contact.

Court records also allege Back transported the minor to locations outside Kentucky, including trips to Georgia.

Authorities say records were used to verify ages and travel details as part of the investigation.

Back is scheduled to be sentenced in federal court in September. The state murder case connected to the crash remains pending.

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ)— A Pikeville man is facing multiple charges following a shooting at a local bar early Saturday morning.

According to a news release from the Pikeville Police Department, officers responded to Klarissa’s Bar on North Bypass Road around 2:31 a.m. on May 3.

When officers arrived, they found a man with a gunshot wound to the upper leg. He was treated at the scene and taken to a nearby hospital.

Police say the shooting happened after a physical altercation between two individuals inside the bar. During the incident, one person allegedly pulled a firearm and fired multiple rounds, striking the victim and putting others in the area at risk.

Officers recovered several spent shell casings, along with a firearm and magazine believed to have been used. An additional extended magazine with ammunition was also found during the investigation.

A suspect was taken into custody and lodged at the Pike County Detention Center. He is charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, first-degree wanton endangerment and possession of a loaded firearm in a business that sells alcohol.

The investigation remains ongoing.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — A former Paintsville doctor has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty in a federal drug case.

Don Bryson received a sentence of one year and one day after admitting to conspiracy to distribute Schedule II controlled substances. He entered the guilty plea in June 2024.

Investigators say Bryson had surrendered his medical license but later worked as a medical consultant at Appalachian Family Medicine, a clinic owned by his son. While doctors were brought in to treat patients, Bryson and his son maintained control of operations.

According to court records, the clinic limited safeguards such as urine testing and pill counts and discouraged doctors from lowering patient dosages. In one instance, a doctor without proper authorization used another doctor’s DEA registration number to write prescriptions.

Over four days, that doctor issued 79 prescriptions totaling more than 6,900 pills before the situation was discovered.

Bryson agreed to forfeit more than $124,000, along with the clinic building and a vehicle tied to the operation. He is scheduled to report to prison on July 14.

His son, Jeremy Bryson, was also convicted in the case and is set to be sentenced June 2.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — A judge has delayed the start of the murder trial in the death of Amber Spradlin by one day as prosecutors seek more time.

Special Judge Eddy Coleman issued the order Friday, moving the scheduled May 11 trial date to allow for a hearing on whether a longer delay is needed.

Spradlin’s body was found June 18, 2023, at a home on Arkansas Creek belonging to Prestonsburg dentist Michael McKinney.

His son, M.K. McKinney, is charged with murder. Michael McKinney and family friend Josh Mullins are charged with multiple counts of evidence tampering.

Commonwealth Attorney Brent Turner requested the delay, citing incomplete DNA testing in the case.

A hearing is now set for May 11, where prosecutors must present testimony from the state crime lab outlining the status of the testing and when results are expected.

The court will also consider whether to separate the cases, which could allow M.K. McKinney to go to trial while the other defendants face delays.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — An 80-year-old woman has died after a crash at a Prestonsburg senior center that injured three people.

Police say the incident happened April 24 at the Prestonsburg Senior Citizens Center when Mary Dotson, 79, backed out of a parking space.

Investigators say the vehicle slowed and nearly stopped before suddenly accelerating, striking two parked vehicles and hitting Ada DePoy, 80, of Prestonsburg. Police say she was dragged about 25 feet.

The SUV then hit the building, causing possible structural damage, before continuing backward and striking a bench where Charles Wallen, 67, and James McGuire, 69, were sitting.

DePoy later died from her injuries. The other two victims were taken to Highlands ARH with moderate injuries.

The driver was also taken to the hospital as a precaution.

Police say the crash appears to have been accidental, with the driver likely pressing the accelerator instead of the brake. Toxicology testing was requested as part of standard procedure, but impairment is not suspected.

The investigation is ongoing.