-
DPA speaks on West Memphis Three
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jessie Misskelley, known as the West Memphis Three, were released from prison Friday, Aug. 19, after appearing in Craighead County court at Jonesboro and entering an Alford guilty plea. The plea means they maintain their innocence while admitting the state has enough evidence for a conviction. The deal also protects the state of Arkansas from civil lawsuit. District prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington issued this statement after the release of the men: "Some are happy, some are angry, and others are perplexed. Such is the case at the conclusion of every trial. This one is no different. "Just moments ago, Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jessie Misskelley Jr. pled guilty to the murders of Stevie Branch, Christopher Byers and Michael Moore. "Echols and Baldwin stand convicted of three counts of murder in the first degree. Misskelley stands convicted of one count of first degree murder and two counts of murder in the second degree, thereby affirming the verdicts the two juries handed down 17 years ago. "A 2010 Arkansas Supreme Court ruling brought to light the very real scenario that each of the defendants could likely receive a new trial. I believe that allegations of misconduct on behalf of a juror in the Echols-Baldwin trial would likely result in a new trial being ordered either by the circuit court or federal court. I further believe it would be practically impossible to put on a proper case against the defendants in this particular case after 18 years of extended litigation. Even if the state were to prevail in a new trial, sentences could be different and the appeals process would begin all over again. "Since the original convictions, two of the victims' families have joined forces with the defense, publically proclaiming the innocence of the defendants. The mother of a witness who testified about Echols' confession has publicly questioned her daughter's truthfulness, and the State Crime Lab employee who collected fiber evidence at the Echols and Baldwin homes after arrest has died. "In light of these circumstances, I decided to entertain plea offers that were being proposed by the defense. I never considered any arrangement that would negate the verdicts of those two juries. Guilt or innocence was never on the table. "Today's proceeding allows the defendants the freedom of speech to say they are innocent, but the fact is, they just pled guilty. I strongly believe that the interests of justice have been served today. "On behalf of the state, I have preserved the verdicts of those juries and averted more prolonged and costly trials and appeals in this case. The legal tangle that has become known as the West Memphis Three case is finished. "I have spoken with members of the victims' families and I can tell you they are still suffering the loss of their little boys. Neither this nor any other proceeding can bring those children back. "As part of the plea and sentence negotiation, the defendants were sentenced to a period of 18 years with credit for time served. Those sentences will be followed by 10 years SIS, or suspended imposition of sentence. "These defendants have spent roughly half of their lives in prison. I pray that during this time they have been rehabilitated. "The defendants are now at liberty and will remain at liberty so long as they do not violate the terms and conditions of the SIS agreement. Any violation of these terms will result in an additional 21 years of prison."
-
Trumann woman arrested for lying about child's burns
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
A Trumann woman was arrested last week after allegedly lying to investigators about severe burns on her child's legs. According to the Trumann Police Department, Detective Anthony Parker and Investigator Jamie Moore with the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division were called to NEA Baptist Hospital on July 27 in reference to a child with severe burns on his legs. After interviewing the child's mother, Brandy Ann Hinkley, 36, of 549 Highway 463 South #22, Trumann, and subsequent investigation, police learned that Hinkley had allegedly lied about the cause of the child's injuries and that she allegedly assisted her 12-year-old son in lying to investigators about the incident. Hinkley was arrested Aug. 15 and charged with hindering apprehension or prosecution and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. She was released on her own recognizance and will appear in court Sept. 26.
-
Three dead in Harrisburg
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Three people were fatally shot in Harrisburg Tuesday night, one inside the city and two on the outskirts of town, the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department said. Deputies with the sheriff's department responded at 9:07 p.m. Tuesday to a residence on the outskirts of Harrisburg. According to Arkansas State Police, emergency crews went to a house fire on Highway 163 where investigators found the bodies of two people, a male and a female. The sheriff's department reported the body of another male found in the city limits. All three had been fatally shot. The sheriff's office said all bodies have been sent to the medical examiner at the Arkansas State Crime Lab. As of press time, no names had yet been released pending notification of next of kin. No motive for the shootings has been released. The investigation has been turned over to the Arkansas State Police. The Poinsett County Sheriff's Department and the Harrisburg Police Department are assisting.Three people were fatally shot in Harrisburg Tuesday night, one inside the city and two on the outskirts of town, the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department said. Deputies with the sheriff's department responded at 9:07 p.m. Tuesday to a residence on the outskirts of Harrisburg. According to Arkansas State Police, emergency crews went to a house fire on Highway 163 where investigators found the bodies of two people, a male and a female. The sheriff's department reported the body of another male found in the city limits. All three had been fatally shot. The sheriff's office said all bodies have been sent to the medical examiner at the Arkansas State Crime Lab. As of press time, no names had yet been released pending notification of next of kin. No motive for the shootings has been released. The investigation has been turned over to the Arkansas State Police. The Poinsett County Sheriff's Department and the Harrisburg Police Department are assisting.
-
Three arrested on meth charges
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Three Trumann residents were arrested Friday on meth charges. Kenneth Scott Turberville, 19, Felicica Ragland, 25, and Justin Shane Harmon, 26, all of 121 Bell Street, Trumann, were arrested after a shoplifting complaint Aug. 19 at Walmart. According to police, Assistant Chief Gary Henry responded to a complaint of Turberville allegedly concealing and leaving the store with several items commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. A search of Turberville's car allegedly produced more items used in manufacturing meth. Police say Turberville's residence was searchable by a bond condition. Inside the residence, Detectives Parker and K9 Officer Holt reportedly discovered suspected methamphetamine along with numerous items to manufacture meth. Ragland, who was already out on bond for meth-related charges, was taken into custody. Parker interviewed Harmon, who was on bond for a meth manufacturing charge, and asked about Harmon's purchase of pseudoephedrine that day. Harmon allegedly said he had given the pills to someone whom he knew to be manufacturing meth with them. Turberville was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and theft under $500. His bond was set at $25,000 by District Judge Ron Hunter. Ragland was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine. Her bond was set at $50,000. Harmon was charged with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. His bond was set at $50,000. They will appear in court Sept. 26.
-
MT fire department sponsors archery tournament
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
The Marked Tree Fire Department is sponsoring a 3-D Archery Tournament beginning at 9 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 28. The tournament will continue until everyone comes out of the woods. Participants will meet at the Marked Tree horse arena or boat ramp. Signs will be posted. There will be a $10 fee to enter one of the six classes. The classes are Peewee, Youth, Bow Hunter, Conventional, Women's and Crossbow. All proceeds will go to the Marked Tree Fire Department to purchase new equipment. Hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be available. For more information call Thomas Tlunk at 870-243-5913 or Better Outdoors in Lepanto at 870-475-3337.
-
Rachel's Challenge coming to local schools to help stop bullying
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Harrisburg and Trumann School Districts' Students Against Alcohol Drugs and Destructive Decisions (HAD and CADD) are teaming together to host a community and surrounding area event to stop bullying. Rachel Scott was the first person killed at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999. Rachel's acts of kindness and compassion coupled with the contents of her six diaries have become the foundation for the most life-changing school program in America. Her brother, Craig, was in the library that day and lost two close friends and narrowly escaped death himself. He was the only student at Columbine who was in the library, the worst of the killing zone, and also lost a sibling. Powerful audio/video footage of Rachel's Challenge holds students spellbound during a one-hour school presentation that motivates them to positive change in the way they treat others. An assembly will start for Harrisburg students at 9 a.m. on Aug. 26 in the Fine Arts Center at Harrisburg, followed by a leadership meeting for club member of HAD and CADD. Trumann students will enjoy an assembly the same day at 1 p.m. in Trumann's High School Auditorium. Rachel's Challenge presenter will conduct a powerful session with parents and community leaders at 7 p.m. Aug. 26 at THS Auditorium. To sustain the positive climate change in a school, Rachel's Challenge offers a yearlong curriculum called the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club that encourages students to continue the chain reaction of kindness and compassion.
-
Henry Grady Stricklin
(Obituary ~ 08/26/11)
Funeral services for Henry Grady Stricklin, 79, of Marked Tree were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Marked Tree First United Methodist Church with Ron Williams officiating. Burial followed in Marked Tree Cemetery. The family received friends beginning at 12 noon Saturday. Henry went to be with his savior after a couragious battle with cancer on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011. He was born on Dec. 3, 1931, in Harrisburg. He met his wife, Alice, at the Poinsett County Courthouse and they married two months later on March 25, 1955. Henry worked with the United States Department of Agriculture for 32 years in Arkansas and two years in Missouri. Henry was an active member of the Marked Tree First United Methodist Church serving as usher and in the Methodist Men's Club. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Velmer and Belle George Stricklin; daughter, Sharon Cupples, and a sister, Joan Ray. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Alice, of the home; daughter, Carol Riley of West Memphis; four grandsons, Rob and Nathan Cupples and Justin and Jeffrey Riley, all of West Memphis; granddaughter, Alicia; three sisters, Geraldine Barnes of Olive Branch, Miss., Jimmie Parker and Sandra Adams of Fort Smith; brother, Dennis Stricklin of Mountain View, and seven great-grandchildren. Grandsons and great-grandsons were honored to serve their Papaw as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Paul Hardin, Bill Stanley, Terry Hatley, Jim Berry and Darrell Broadway. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be directed to Marked Tree First United Methodist Church or the Health Professionals and Hospice of Jonesboro. Murphy Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
-
Marked Tree Police Reports
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Brandon Roark, 35, of Marked Tree, was arrested Aug. 15 after an investigation into a stolen truck hitting a house and another vehicle on the night of Aug. 11. According to police, officers with the Marked Tree Police Department were dispatched to 501 Ninth Street after the residents called 911 reporting a vehicle struck their house on two occasions. While investigating that scene officers received another call about a truck matching the same description hitting a vehicle three times on Frisco Street. Officers located the suspected vehicle in an alley behind Eighth Street and learned the vehicle had been stolen. On Aug. 15, Roark was interviewed in connection with the incidents and admitted to stealing the truck and hitting the house. He did not remember hitting any vehicles, stating he was heavily intoxicated that night. Judge Ron Hunter found probable cause to charge Roark with theft of property over $2,000, criminal mischief first degree and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage. Bond was set at $50,000 with a Sept. 26 court date. Kevin Brown, 25, of Marked Tree, was arrested Aug. 15 following a report from Brown's 63-year-old father that he had been assaulted by him. Officers noticed apparent injuries to the victim's face. Brown was located walking down a nearby street and appeared to be intoxicated. Judge Hunter found probable cause to charge Brown with battery second degree, violating a no contact order and public intoxication. Bond was set at $10,000 cash with a Sept. 26 court date. Rhonda Highfill, 50, of Marked Tree, was arrested Aug. 19 in connection with a shooting incident that occurred Aug.17. Officers were called to a residence in Marked Tree after the victim reported that Highfill had shot at him. Highfill had fled the residence prior to police arrival, but was located approximately 30 minutes later at another residence and transported to a Jonesboro hospital after becoming unconscious. Evidence at the scene and statements made by Highfill after her release from the hospital indicated the victim had gotten into an argument with Highfill's adult son and she retrieved the handgun and fired it at the victim. Judge Hunter found probable cause to charge Highfill with attempted second degree murder, endangering the welfare of a minor first degree and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Bond was set at $50,000 cash with a Sept. 26 court date.
-
Lepanto considering ordinance to appoint parks commission
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
The Lepanto City Council reviewed an ordinance Tuesday night that would establish a Parks Commission. The commission would work independently of the city council and be responsible for the finances and running of all city parks, including the sports complex. City Attorney Noyl Houston said the ordinance would allow the council to turn over complete control of operating the parks to the commission. The commission would set the rules and regulations, make a quarterly report to the council, and have a yearly audit. Members of the commission would serve five year terms, and while the commission would not have access to sales tax money, the city has authority to make appropriations from the general fund to supplement the parks fund. The council followed Mayor Steve Jernigan's recommendation to postpone voting on the ordinance so they can take more time to study it. Michael Pierce, who is currently on the advisory committee for the sports complex, took the time to clear up some things regarding Anthony Smith, whom the council replaced last month as sports complex manager. He said Smith did not "slack off" and that he did do a lot of work at the sports complex, but said the job was just much bigger than Smith expected and he was a little overwhelmed. "He helped out quite a bit. It just didn't work out," Pierce said. The council also voted to make an amendment to the occupational license penalty clause. The amendment will state that businesses must pay for their occupational license by Jan.31 or the rate will double. If they do not pay it by the end of February, they will have to go to court. EPC Superintendent Michael Pierce spoke to the council about the four mill increase the school is asking for. The district, which has one of the lowest millage rates in the state, is asking for the increase to accomplish two objectives, first to replace windows in the Tyronza and Lepanto elementary schools with more energy efficient windows to keep utility costs down and, secondly, to make the salary schedule more competitive so the school has a better chance of retaining teachers. There are two public meetings scheduled to discuss the millage increase request. One will be Sept. 6 at the Tyronza Elementary cafeteria and the other will be Sept. 12 in the Lepanto cafeteria. The 2011 school election will be Sept. 20. Three people resigned from the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mayor Jernigan nominated Roger Tyler, Dennis Smith and Lee Buchanan to replace them, and the council unanimously approved the nominations. The council had hoped to settle the purchase of a 1994 ambulance from the city by Riverside Ambulance. They thought David Simmons of Riverside Ambulance would be present but did not realize there was also a fire department meeting at the same time. The matter has been postponed until next month. City Clerk Tamara Wyatt said the street fund was over budget because there had been more expenses than expected this year. She noted she has had to loan money out of the general fund into the street fund to keep it balanced. She said after the turnback dropped from the population decrease, the street fund was at negative $1,692. The street fund has a CD from 1985 that matures Sept. 3 with a value of over $27,000. She suggested keeping $5,000 in the CD, paying into the general fund what it is owed from the street fund and using the remainder to balance the street fund. The council unanimously approved. Earlier Mayor Jernigan noted there were a few items in the city financial that would be close or could go over budget because of increased fuel costs. One example, he said, is the budget for police fuel. He noted $20,000 was budgeted for the year, and the police department already has spent $15,000. "It's going to be touchy for the rest of the year," he added.
-
Labor Day fun at Poinsett State Park
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
The Lake Poinsett State Park will host Labor Day Events Sept. 2, 3 and 4. The staff at Lake Poinsett State Park invites everyone to join in celebrating Labor Day weekend. "We still have campsites available and we'll have activities for kids of all ages," said a park representative. Everyone is invited to join the park staff for an informative and fun tour of all that Lake Poinsett has to offer on Friday, Sept. 2, for a Sunset Kayak Cruise, starting at 7 p.m. The fee is $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 6 to 12. Advance reservations are required. "What better way to spend the day at beautiful Lake Poinsett than by horseback?," said the park staff. On Saturday, Sept. 3, from 11a.m. to 1 p.m., Lake Poinsett will host Kids and Horses in the Park. The staff is offering hand-led horseback rides by experienced personnel. The fee is $3 per person and includes fresh popped kettle corn. Children may join the park rangers for fun campfire treats in a tasty program designed for kids and the young at heart with the Campfire Goodies program at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3. Chocolate biscuits and kettle corn are on the menu. The fee is $2. The park offers a chance to catch a glimpse into the lives of children who lived in the area hundreds of years ago with the Historic Games program at 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 4. The staff will be offering Native American and pioneer games to celebrate the rich history left behind. Lake Poinsett State Park is one of the 52 state parks administered by the State Parks Division of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. The 135-acre park offers camping, a boat launch ramp, a standard pavilion, picnic sites, restrooms and bathhouse on 640-acre Lake Poinsett. Along with the visitor center and gift shop, the park offers two nature trails and year-round interpretive programs. For more information about the yard sale or any other park events, contact the park at (870) 578-2064 or visit www.ArkansasStateParks.com.
-
Kid's Campfire Cooking day announced
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Lake Poinsett State Park is hosting a Kid's Campfire Cooking program on Saturday, September 10, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. "One of the best parts of camping for kids is roasting marshmallows over the fire," said Katherine Evans, Assistant Superintendent of Lake Poinsett State Park."However, there are lots of other fun treats that kid's can cook using a few simple tools and a campfire." Kids of all ages are invited to join the staff of Lake Poinsett State Park on September 10, in the campground, to learn some fun and easy recipes for yummy campfire snacks that anyone can make. Children do not need to be camping at the park to enjoy these treats. The cost is $2 per person and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at (870) 578-2064 to register or for more information. Food never tastes as good as it does while you're camping. Lake Poinsett State Park is one of the 52 state parks administered by the State Parks Division of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. The 135-acre park offers camping, a boat launch ramp, a standard pavilion, picnic sites, restrooms and bathhouse on 640-acre Lake Poinsett. Along with the visitor center and gift shop, the park offers two nature trails and year-round interpretive programs. For more information about the Kid's Campfire Cooking Program or any other park events, contact the park at (870) 578-2064 or visit www.ArkansasStateParks.com.
-
Harrisburg's Business Spotlight shines on For Every Home
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
This week's Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce Business Spotlight falls on For Every Home. "In 2007, Becky Anderson created For Every Home to give women like her opportunities to celebrate the moments, memories and milestones that happen at home," said Ashley Rowton, For Every Home's Harrisburg representative. "From her experience, Becky knows home businesses give women the freedom, flexibility and financial independence to spend time doing the things they love." For Every Home is unique to the area for multiple reasons. "Our soy candles, soy cubes and warmers allow customers to fragrance their homes in an environmentally friendly way," said Rowton. "Soy is water soluble, biodegradable, a replenishable resource, is non-toxic and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Soy burns cleaner and longer with no petroleum-based black emissions. Our odor eliminator gels and sprays are also non-toxic, making them safe to use around children and pets. Our Green Living cleaning line is also safe around food, children, and pets." Rowton places orders every few days and will gift-wrap anything that she has in her inventory for a last-minute gift. "Our candles contain double the scent of most in the industry and, of course, we always use lead-free wicks and the finest essential oils," she said. "We have highly-scented wax with seven percent oil distributed evenly throughout the candle. The unique blend of clean burning soy wax, our signature decorative toppings, and our fabulous true-to-life fragrances set For Every Home candles apart from everyone else." Rowton said she loves delivering orders to her customers and listening as they talk about all of the different places they plan to use the candles in their homes. "I have so many regular customers who are loyal to our odor absorbing gels and odor eliminating sprays," said Rowton. "They know they are safe for their entire family and pets, yet five times stronger than the leading brand of odor eliminating spray. Our sprays can be used on furniture, rugs, linens, etc., and they will not irritate eyes, skin, or lungs."
-
Election Commission to test voting machine
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
The Poinsett County Election Commission will test the voting machine for the annual school board election at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, at the coordinator's office.
-
Whittingham reunion to be held in Trumann
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
The Whittingham reunion will take place Saturday, Aug. 27, in the Trumann Community Center. There will be a potluck lunch starting at 10 a.m.
-
Flea Market for Sept. 24
(Local News ~ 08/26/11)
Members of the Marked Tree Historical Society and Friends of theLibrary will be collecting items for a flea market to be held Sept. 24during the Cotton Picking Jubilee in Marked Tree. Area residents are urged to take advantage of the opportunity to clean out closets and attics, garages and storage buildings and turntrash into treasure to benefit the Marked Tree Delta AreaMuseum and the Marked Tree Library. Further details will beprovided at a later date.
Stories from Friday, August 26, 2011
Browse other days