Update on Vandalism of Murphy River Walk

April 4, 2018, 2:02 pm

≪ Previous: Two arrested on drug charges

The following press release has been issued by Town of Murphy Police Department.

Around March of this year, the Murphy Police Department learned through social media that the River Walk area in Murphy had been vandalized. The vandalism took place around the Leech Place area of the River Walk. The Murphy Police Department started an investigating of incident and utilized extra foot patrols on the River Walk area.

During the investigation, officers identified several suspects and determined them to be juveniles. Officers conducted several interviews in this case and this case is still ongoing. The disposition of this case is still pending but due to the suspects being juveniles there will be no further press release on this case. The juvenile suspects are cooperating with law enforcement in this case.

The River Walk area is a beautiful area and a great asset for our community. We, along with our community, take pride in the River Walk. We ask the public to assist us in taking care of the area by notifying the Murphy Police Department of suspicious activity in this area or any area as soon as possible.
The Murphy Police Department would like to thank the workers of the River Walk for their hard and dedicated work so we, the community, can enjoy it.

Dustin D. Smith
Assistant Chief of Police
Murphy Police Department

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Election Advertising Deadlines

April 4, 2018, 5:57 pm

≫ Next: The National Forests of North Carolina will sponsor a series of "Kids Fishing Days" this spring

≪ Previous: Update on Vandalism of Murphy River Walk

The May 8th Primary Election will be here before you know it here in North Carolina. Here are some important dates to keep in mind:

April 13, 2018: Voter Registration Deadline

April 19 - May 5, 2018: One Stope (Early Voting)

May 8, 2018 - Election Day - May Primary

WKRK Political Advertising Deadlines:

TV Display Ad for Full Month Run: Friday, April 6, 2018 (non-prorated pricing still offered after this date.)
Website Ad for Full Month Run: Friday, April 6, 2018 (non-prorated pricing still offered after this date.)
25 minute long-form broadcast and SoundCloud interview: Monday, April 30, 2018 (we may become sold out earlier)
30 & 60 second Radio Commercials: Friday, May 4th at 11:00 am (we may become sold out earlier)

Thank you to all of the candidates who have already shown trust in WKRK to get their message out to the voting public. If you are interested in WKRK advertising, please stop by our business office between 8 am and Noon weekdays or call (828) 837-4332. Our office is located at 90 Tennessee Street, Suite B, Murphy, NC 28906.

To look up sample ballots or find out about your voter registration or polling location, visit https://www.ncsbe.gov/ .

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The National Forests of North Carolina will sponsor a series of "Kids Fishing Days" this spring

April 5, 2018, 8:37 am

≫ Next: April 10th, 2018

≪ Previous: Election Advertising Deadlines

The National Forests of North Carolina will sponsor a series of "Kids Fishing Days" on each ranger district to teach kids about fishing. The first event open to the public is on May 19.

These annual events allow children ages 15 years and younger to fish for free, although some events are extremely popular and may adjust age and creel limits or stagger fishing time to insure participant safety. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No experience is needed to participate.

Volunteers and employees from the U.S. Forest Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission will provide free fishing assistance and loaned equipment. Kids will be educated on how to use a rod and reel, as well as how to bait a hook. No fishing license is required at this event. A free lunch will be provided to all participants.

This fishing event allows families and friends to share fun, quality time together while learning about one of our nation's favorite pastimes - fishing.

Kids Fishing Events:

May 19 at 10:00 am - Boone Fork Pond on the Grandfather District, Contact: Greg Philipp (828-652-2144 or gphilipp@fs.fed.us)
June 2 at 9:00 am - Carolina Hemlocks on the Appalachian District (registration begins at 8 am), Contact: Brandon Jones (828-682-6146 or brandonjones@fs.fed.us)
June 2 at 9:00 am - Rattler Ford on the Cheoah District, Contact: Jason Farmer (828-479-6431 or jfarmer@fs.fed.us)
June 2 at 9:00 am - Cliffside Lake on the Nantahala District, Contact: Richard McClure (828-526-3765 or rmcclure02@fs.fed.us)
June 2 at 9:00 am - Lake Powhatan on the Pisgah District, Contact: Lorie Stroup (828-877-3265 or loriestroup@fs.fed.us). Due to expected crowds, additional age and creel limits may be in place at this event.
June 2 at 7:30 am - Cherokee Lake on the Tusquitee District, Contact: Todd Sharkey (828-837-5152 or tasharkey@fs.fed.us)
June 9 at 9:00 am - Max Patch Pond on the Appalachian District (registration begins at 8 am), Contact: Brandon Jones (828-682-6146 or brandonjones@fs.fed.us)
June 9 at 8:00 am - Cedar Swamp Pond on the Croatan District (hybrid sunfish or catfish), Contact: Hugo Cobos (252-638-5628 or hcobos@fs.fed.us)
June 9 at 9:00 am - King's Mt. Point on the Uwharrie District, Contact: Theresa Savery (910-576-6391 or tsavery@fs.fed.us)

NOTE: These events are unrelated to the Kid's Fishing Day sponsored by the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Fishing Day. See note below about the rescheduled date for that event.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Kid’s Fishing Day has been postponed until Saturday, April 14, due to inclement weather in the forecast for this Saturday.

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April 10th, 2018

April 10, 2018, 4:32 pm

≫ Next: Another stolen vehicle, meth and stolen goods

≪ Previous: The National Forests of North Carolina will sponsor a series of "Kids Fishing Days" this spring

6 charged on Federal Indictments

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced following a 2 year investigation, 6 individuals were charged on federal indictments for the illegal possession and distribution of controlled substances in Cherokee County.

In early 2016 Detectives with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit received information regarding the Trafficking of Methamphetamine into Cherokee County from the Metro Atlanta Area. Detectives initiated an investigation into the source of the Methamphetamine being brought into Cherokee County. During the course of the investigation Detectives conducted numerous hours of surveillance, undercover purchases of Methamphetamine, multiple interviews and traffic stops resulting in multiple seizures of Methamphetamine. It was later determined during the course of the investigation that the contact for this source of Methamphetamine was an inmate in the Georgia Department of Corrections.

Detectives from the Cherokee County Narcotics Unit began a joint investigation with agents from the Georgia Department of Corrections, the GBI, FBI, DEA and the US Attorney’s Office. As a result of that investigation, six federal indictments were issued for Conspiracy to Sell and Deliver Methamphetamine and for the Sale and Delivery of Methamphetamine for the following persons:

Glen McTaggart (confined Georgia Prison)
Dale Hamilton Dutto (confined Georgia Prison)
Isaac Daniel Hughes (not yet arrested)
Carla Blair Lloyd (currently being held)
Candice Brooke Cole (currently being held)
James Donald Taylor (currently being held)

McTaggart and Dutto are currently incarcerated in the Georgia Department of Corrections, federal detainers have been issued for both. Taylor and Cole are currently being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center on other charges, federal detainers have been issued for both. Lloyd was taken into federal custody and is being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center for the US Marshals. Hughes is currently at large.

Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated “Again, these investigations are not completed over night. This is a push in the right direction as we continue our war against drugs!”

To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

↧

Another stolen vehicle, meth and stolen goods

April 11, 2018, 8:27 am

≫ Next: DEBATES: Cherokee County - May 8th Primary

≪ Previous: April 10th, 2018

The following press releases have been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Narcotics Unit was conducting surveillance in the Marble area that resulted in the recovery of another truck stolen last week. Timothy McCoy was occupying the vehicle at the time Mccoy has several arrests for larceny of motor vehicles/possession of stolen motor vehicles. The courts set a $75000.00 bond

Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at 5823 Fairview Road. As a result Christopher Michael Rhodes was taken into custody on numerous warrants both in North Carolina and Georgia. A quantity of Methamphetamine was seized along with paraphernalia and numerous stolen goods. Charges are pending.

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DEBATES: Cherokee County - May 8th Primary

April 11, 2018, 2:42 pm

≫ Next: Husband, father of 7 dies in vehicle accident

≪ Previous: Another stolen vehicle, meth and stolen goods

WKRK, along with the Cherokee Scout and Andrews Journal, invited all candidates running for office in Cherokee County to debate with their opponent(s) so that voters could learn more about each candidate to aid in making a more informed vote in the May 8th Republican Primary. There is no Democratic Primary this year in Cherokee County. Since there is little Democratic opposition this year, most of the winners in the May 8th Republican Primary will move on to become the elected officials as they may have no opponent in November. It's just the way things lined up this year.

Invitations were sent to each candidate to the registered address on file with the Board of Elections.

We understand that people are busy with various schedules, but we were disappointed that many candidates chose not to participate in debates at all. Legally, for us to conduct a debate, at least 2 people in each race must participate so that we are able maintain a fair and balanced setting. Debates are the only free airtime that WKRK provides to candidates because of that balance. All other political messages are paid, political messages with proper disclaimers noting such.

Many of the candidates were simply unavailable and had no interest in rescheduling, and that is their right to choose. We in no way wish to disrespect that right. However, this means that their opponent was unable to participate in the debate.

In regards to transparency and fairness to those candidates who wanted to debate and weren't able to, we will list all the races we had scheduled and each's candidate's availability. This is not to make any candidate look bad or suggest that they were uncooperative. We have a great relationship with all of these folks. Again, candidates have busy schedules and we could have done a better job by providing invitations with more notice.

Some of the reasons given for being unavailable include:

other plans during spring break week,
out of town on business,
not interested in debating,
conflict with work schedule, and
do not want it to give appearance that candidates of same party are bickering,

We are not going to single out each candidate's response to try to influence public opinion. That would be improper.

Below is the proposed recording sessions we had lined up:

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11
3 PM - Cherokee County Board of Education District 2 (1 seat open)
- Jeannie Gaddis - UNAVAILABLE
- Jeff Martin - UNAVAILABLE

4 PM - Cherokee County Board of Education District 3 (2 seats open)
- Paul Brown - PARTICIPATED
- Mark Patterson - PARTICIAPTED
- Joe Wood - PARTICIPATED

5 PM - Cherokee County Board of Education At-large (1 seat open)
- Keesha Curtis - PARTICIPATED
- Tylor Dockery - PARTICIPATED

THURSDAY, APRIL 12
3 PM - Cherokee County Board of Commissioners District 1
- Cal Stiles - UNAVAILABLE
- Tim West - UNAVAILABLE

4 PM - Cherokee County Board of Commissioners District 3
- Corey Bailey - AVAILABLE
- Hippie Westmoreland - UNAVAILABLE

FRIDAY, APRIL 13
3 PM - Cherokee County Sheriff
- Derrick Palmer - UNAVAILABLE
- Dan Sherrill - AVAILABLE

4 PM - Cherokee County Board of Commissioners District 4
- Winfield Clonts - AVAILABLE
- Dan Eichenbaum - UNAVAILABLE

We very much appreciate the candidates in the Cherokee County Board of Education At-Large and District 3 seats for taking time out of their busy schedules to allow us to get to know them better and how they stand on certain issues. Those debate videos are posted below. Thanks for watching!

↧

Husband, father of 7 dies in vehicle accident

April 12, 2018, 12:51 pm

≫ Next: WCU marching band invited to make return trip for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2019

≪ Previous: DEBATES: Cherokee County - May 8th Primary

First Sgt. Chris Wood of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol tells WKRK that a traffic accident Wednesday involving a 1990 Ford log truck and a 2013 Ford Taurus left a Murphy man deceased and a family devastated. The accident happened at 7:38 pm on Tuesday, April 11, 2018.

Justin Alan Jensen, age 33, of Wingate Road, Murphy, NC was reportedly traveling westbound on Highway 64 West near Jacky Jones Chevrolet. The log truck was traveling westbound at a slow speed after pulling onto the highway from a strip mall. The truck had become established in the right hand lane.

Reports indicate that Jensen failed to reduce speed and collided with the logs extending from the back of the truck. The logs penetrated the windshield of the 2013 Ford Taurus. Jensen was transported to Murphy Medical Center where he was pronounced dead shortly after the accident.

NCDMV Officials from Asheville, NC verified that the log truck was properly marked and compliant with highway standards.

There are no indications at this time that excessive speed was involved.

A GoFundMe page has been setup to help with expenses for the family. Tammie Marie McDowell shared the photo below of the Jensen family to the WKRK Facebook page. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/muek38-jensen-family.

The page, organized by Bonnie Hughes reads, "Justin Jensen was killed in a terrible car accident this evening and leaves behind a wife and 7 kids. He is a Marine Corp veteran and served many years over seas fighting for our country. He and his family are strong believers in Jesus Christ and an absolutely wonderful people. Please help provide for this family for daily needs as well as prayer!"

WKRK sends our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Justin Jensen and all those affected during this time of loss. Our prayers are with you.

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WCU marching band invited to make return trip for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2019

April 13, 2018, 12:38 pm

≫ Next: Early morning raid nabs fugitive

≪ Previous: Husband, father of 7 dies in vehicle accident

CULLOWHEE – Western Carolina University’s Pride of the Mountains Marching Band will be enjoying one of the best things about Thanksgiving Day – going back for a second helping.

But in this case the 500-plus members of the WCU marching band won’t be fighting over who gets the last drumstick. Instead, they will be making a return trip to New York City to perform in the 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Macy’s Parade officials came to campus Friday, April 13, to surprise band members with news of the invitation to participate in the annual holiday event next year. The Pride of the Mountains previously was selected to lead the parade in 2014.

David Starnes, WCU director of athletic bands, had invited all members of the Pride of the Mountains to a mandatory full band meeting with Carol Burton, WCU’s acting provost, in the Grandroom of A.K. Hinds University Center. After a few introductory remarks from Burton, Wesley Whatley, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade creative producer, stepped out of hiding and into the room to deliver the invitation.

Whatley counted down to lead a cheer of “let’s have a parade,” unveiled a parade banner and presented a commemorative drum head to Starnes as a shower of confetti rained down upon the participants.

“On behalf of the band selection committee, Macy’s is incredibly proud to welcome back Western Carolina University to the streets of New York City,” said Whatley. “David Starnes runs a program known for its artistic storytelling, big sound and highly engaging field shows. The Macy’s Parade audience has a lot to look forward to when the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band returns to our parade in 2019.”

The return of the WCU unit to the parade represents an uncommon occurrence in the history of the event, Whatley said.

“Bands may only reapply for the Macy’s Parade five years after appearing in our event,” he said. “In most cases, it takes much longer for a group to receive another invitation, if at all. WCU is a rare case – delivering such a special combination of artistry and big university sound that the committee couldn’t resist welcoming them back as soon as possible after the band’s five-year hiatus.”

Starnes and other Pride of the Mountains staff members worked hard to try to ensure that the announcement was a surprise to all student band members, a task made trickier because most of the seniors in the unit participated in the event in 2014 and may have recognized Whatley.

“We are thrilled beyond belief to represent Western Carolina University and the great state of North Carolina in the 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” Starnes said. “This event is a life-changer for band students of all ages and, personally, continues to bring out the kid in me. The respect and admiration I have for this parade goes without saying, and we are deeply honored to have been selected for participation in 2019. As they say on parade day – let’s have a parade.”

Founded in 1924, the world-famous event attracts more than 3.5 million spectators lining the streets of New York, and 50 million at-home viewers. The world’s largest parade, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is televised nationally by NBC.

↧

Early morning raid nabs fugitive

April 15, 2018, 4:33 pm

≫ Next: Mark Kimball Named CEO of Erlanger Murphy Medical Center

≪ Previous: WCU marching band invited to make return trip for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2019

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced the April 14th, 2018 arrest of Benjamin Lee Stanley, a 39-year-old Topton, North Carolina man for domestic violence violations and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Over the past several months, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has several interactions with Stanley, including evading arrest on charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Additionally, there were two active warrants for the arrest of Stanley for violation of Domestic Violence Protective Orders. On several occasions, Stanley had evaded arrest including a Friday morning encounter where Stanley led investigators on a chase eventually losing them as Stanley, who was operating a jeep, took an off road trail.

During the early morning hours of April 14th, 2018, deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division travelled to Stanley’s residence and utilized a search warrant to gain entry. Upon entering the residence, it was discovered that Stanley was again attempting escape by dropping down into the crawlspace of the residence and was hiding until discovered by the deputies. Stanley was taken into custody and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Benjamin Lee Stanley was served with an indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm and was placed on at $15,000.00 secure bond. Additionally, two domestic violence protective order violation warrants were served on Stanley in which he was placed on a 48 hour no bond condition. Stanley was also charged with Resist Obstruct and Delay and was placed on a $3,000.00 secure bond. Stanley is currently being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated, “Great work getting Mr. Stanley off the streets. It is obvious he has no regard for the court or the law. This was some outstanding work by the patrol officers who took this issue to heart, planning out a great mission and ensuring no one was hurt. Job Well Done!”

To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

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Mark Kimball Named CEO of Erlanger Murphy Medical Center

April 19, 2018, 12:11 pm

≫ Next: DHHS Releases Funding Opportunity for Communities on Front Lines of Opioid Crisis

≪ Previous: Early morning raid nabs fugitive

CHATTANOOGA, TN – Mark Kimball, FACHE, has been named Chief Executive Officer of Erlanger Murphy Medical Center, based in Murphy, North Carolina. The announcement was made this week by Kevin M. Spiegel, FACHE, President & CEO of the Erlanger Health System. The North Carolina-based healthcare facility became Erlanger’s sixth hospital on April 1 and its first in North Carolina. When the Erlanger Behavioral Health Center Hospital opens in July, Erlanger will have five hospitals in Hamilton County, one in Bledsoe County and one in North Carolina.

Prior to his appointment at Erlanger, Mr. Kimball served as Chief Operating Officer with NorthCrest Medical Center in Springfield, Tennessee, and was responsible for the overall operations with Houston County Community Hospital located in Erin, Tennessee. In that role he led Houston County Community Hospital to earning its designation of Critical Access Hospital status. “I am excited and honored to be entrusted to take on this new role and join this outstanding contingent of passionate caregivers, providers and team members. I look forward to building on Erlanger Murphy Medical Center’s strong foundation and helping the leadership team continue to advance the hospital’s shared purpose of caring for people’s health and wellness across the region we serve,” Kimball said.

Kimball is a rural healthcare executive with 20 years of leadership experience with several prominent healthcare systems throughout the Southeast, including Behavioral Health Center and Select Specialty Hospital in Memphis, Archbold Medical Center in Camilla, Ga. and Phoebe-Putney Health System in Albany, Ga.

“With his impressive background and vast experience working with critical access hospitals like Erlanger Murphy Medical Center, Mark Kimball is ideally suited for this position at our newest hospital,” said Spiegel. “He has longtime ties to this region and we look forward to introducing him to the staff, physicians, business leaders and the community next month,” Spiegel added. Kimball will officially start his new role in Murphy on June 4.

Kimball received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Georgia and earned a Master’s in Business Administration. He is board-certified in healthcare management and a fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives and a licensed nursing home administrator.

Erlanger’s new executive has been actively involved with numerous professional and civic organizations, including the American College of Healthcare Executives, Georgia Hospital Association, Center for Rural Health, National Association of Occupational Health Executives, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce and Boys and Girls Clubs.

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DHHS Releases Funding Opportunity for Communities on Front Lines of Opioid Crisis

April 19, 2018, 2:13 pm

≫ Next: College celebrates 10 years of fishing tourney

≪ Previous: Mark Kimball Named CEO of Erlanger Murphy Medical Center

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released a request for applications for community projects to combat the opioid crisis by advancing the goals of the NC Opioid Action Plan.

Organizations can seek one-time, state-funded grants of up to $150,000 to support community activities that improve access to treatment and recovery supports. Grant applications must be received by May 4, 2018.

“These grants will help local communities work together to turn the tide of the opioid crisis through treatment and recovery assistance,” said DHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen, M.D. “We look forward to collaborating with communities around the state to accomplish the vision set forth in the NC Opioid Action Plan.”

Awards are available to local government agencies, including public health departments, departments of social services, county corrections, EMS agencies, community organizations, hospitals, health centers, clinics, pharmacies and other organizations that have a history of work in population health, substance use disorder prevention, treatment or recovery services, and harm reduction.

The request for applications provides targeted funding for activities to help communities connect people to treatment including:

Certified peer-support specialists or North Carolina certified peer-support training.
Connecting people involved with the justice system to harm reduction, treatment and recovery services, which may include establishing or expanding pre-arrest diversion programs such as Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion or post-arrest diversion programs such as recovery courts.
Establishing post-overdose reversal response teams to prevent repeat overdose and connecting those who have had a non-fatal overdose to harm reduction and treatment and recovery supports.

Applications can also target efforts to expand syringe exchange programs, provide training in naloxone administration, train pharmacists on opioid overdose prevention, conduct training on medication assisted treatment or support capacity building for office-based opioid agonist treatment services.

The NC Opioid Action Plan Implementation Initiative RFA has been posted to the DMHDDSAS Notice of Funding Availability grant opportunities page and has been entered into Open Window under the RFA section using the following identifier: 30-DMH-OAP-2019.

The NC Opioid Action Plan was launched in June 2017, with collaboration from stakeholders across the state. The plan identified key strategies to combat the opioid epidemic, including expanding treatment and recovery oriented systems of care, making naloxone widely available and linking overdose survivors to care.
For more information, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/opioid-epidemic.

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College celebrates 10 years of fishing tourney

April 20, 2018, 7:33 pm

≫ Next: Tennessee Fugitive arrested in Cherokee County following chase

≪ Previous: DHHS Releases Funding Opportunity for Communities on Front Lines of Opioid Crisis

(from left) First-place overall finishers Chris Blankenship and Jason Ash pose with their $1,000 prize money at Tri-County Community College’s 10th Annual Fishing for Scholarships Tournament on April 7 at Lake Chatuge in Hayesville.

Despite grey skies and intermittent rain, nearly 60 teams eagerly revved their engines in the early morning light as they awaited the blast off countdown at the Tri-County Community College Foundation’s 10th Annual Fishing for Scholarships Tournament at Lake Chatuge on April 7.

“We are thrilled to have more than 100 anglers turn out for our 10th annual event this year,” said Dr. Donna Tipton-Rogers, president of Tri-County Community College, shortly before blast-off. “I want to personally thank every participant today for not only supporting our college, but more importantly, helping our students achieve their educational goals.”

More than $3,500 in prize money was handed out, while proceeds from the registration fees will fund two $1,000 scholarships for future Tri-County Community College students. The annual tournament is a joint effort by the Tri-County Bass Club and the Tri-County Community College Foundation.

The first-place overall prize of $1,000 went to teammates Jason Ash and Chris Blankenship of Whittier, with an impressive total haul of 24.13 pounds.

The remaining teams that placed overall were: second place Brandon and Jaxon Pace, both of Canton; third William Gibson and Danny Caldwell, both of Murphy; fourth place John Hyer of Murphy; and fifth place Johnny Brooks and Ronnie Brewer, of Lake Mount and Tiger, Ga. respectively.

First-place finishers Ash and Blankenship also took home the prize for biggest largemouth bass (8.12), while Skip and Jesse McKeral of Blairsville, Ga. won biggest spotted bass (4.90). Jake Cook and Luke Hunter, both of Sylva, also took home $100 prize money for smallest fish (1.34).

“After 10 fantastic years of support, we hope to see all of you back for our 11th annual tournament on April 6, 2019,” Tipton-Rogers said.

For more information regarding TCCC’s annual fishing tournament, call 837-6810.

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Tennessee Fugitive arrested in Cherokee County following chase

April 25, 2018, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: Crews respond to fire near Konehete Park

≪ Previous: College celebrates 10 years of fishing tourney

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced the April 25th, 2018 arrest of Mason Kelly Nykolajcuyk, a 26-year-old Bradley County, Tennessee fugitive who was captured following a lengthy chase in and around Murphy, North Carolina during the noon time hour.

A little after 1130 am on April 25th, 2018, Lt. Wood with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Division spotted a vehicle matching the description of a wanted vehicle which had been involved in an incident in Polk County Tennessee on the previous day where a Polk County Deputy was stabbed. At the time, the vehicle was just west of Murphy on US Highway 64 and headed west.

As Lt. Wood began following the vehicle to make an investigative stop, the vehicle pulled off the side of the road and then fled back east. During the chase, the vehicle reached speeds above 80 miles per hour oftentimes in crowded business areas as well as in residential areas which included an elementary school. Additionally, the driver was driving erratically, which included driving in the east bound lane of US 19 near the Murphy High School into oncoming traffic, and at times almost struck pedestrians in the area as well as striking two law enforcement vehicles and attempting to strike other law enforcement vehicles.

At one point in the chase, a unit from Murphy Police Department setup and deployed stop sticks which damaged one or two of the vehicle’s tires, however Nykolajcuyk continued his high speed flight. Shortly after Nykolajcuyk entered a small two lane road in the Texana Community of Cherokee County, Lt. Wood was able to utilize a pit maneuver to disable the vehicle at which time Nykolajcuyk was captured.

Nykolajcuyk is currently incarcerated in the Cherokee County Detention Center. Nykolajcuyk is charged with Felony Fleeing to Elude Arrest, Felony Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, and Possession of a Stolen Motor Vechile. Nykolajcuyk is currently under a $100,000.00 secure bond and has a hold placed on him for pending out of state charges.

Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated, “Outstanding work and cooperation bringing a very dangerous situation to a safe closure. We appreciate the cooperation of Murphy Police Department.”

To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

Clarification/Correction: We understand that Mason Kelly Nykolajcuyk and Ashley Hale of Delano, Tennessee, were stopped by a Polk County deputy on Tuesday, April 24, 2018. Ashley Hale was the one who allegedly stabbed the deputy. The deputy fell backwards and hit his head on a rock. A BOLO was issued. Click here for more from WRCB-TV.

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Crews respond to fire near Konehete Park

April 26, 2018, 5:46 am

≫ Next: Local college students honored with banquet

≪ Previous: Tennessee Fugitive arrested in Cherokee County following chase

The following press release has been issued by Chief Al Lovingood, Murphy Fire Department

At 3:07:22 pm on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, Murphy Fire Department, assisted by Peachtree Fire Department, was dispatched to 672 Valley River Avenue on report of a residential fire.

Upon arrival of the first engine at 3:11:54, firefighters found an approximate 1200 square foot single story house with smoke coming from the attic. Personnel forced entry into the structure and found heavy smoke conditions. Firefighters located and extinguished the fire in a utility room. No one was home at the time of the fire, which appeared to have started behind a clothes dryer. Fire damage was contained to the utility room but the entire structure sustained smoke damage.

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Local college students honored with banquet

April 27, 2018, 4:34 pm

≫ Next: Andrews Middle School Teacher citation dismissed after social media controversy

≪ Previous: Crews respond to fire near Konehete Park

Beth Thomason, Tri-County Community College student, receives her 2018 North Carolina Community College System award for Academic Excellence from President Dr. Donna Tipton-Rogers at the college’s annual Academic Honors Banquet on April 19 at McGuire’s Millrace Farm in Peachtree.

Tri-County Community College held its annual Academic Honors Banquet for students to be recognized for their academic achievements, as well as their induction into national honor societies, in front of family and friends on April 19 at McGuire’s Millrace Farm in Peachtree.

“This event is one my favorite out of the entire year because it allows us to thank you for all your hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Donna Tipton-Rogers, president of Tri-County Community College. “It is an honor to be with you all tonight.”

The college’s four honor societies -- Alpha Beta Gamma, Phi Theta Kappa, the National Technical Honor Society and Tau Upsilon Alpha -- all had pledges recognized from the student body.

Also recognized at the event were students who had not pledged to an honor society but who had earned the distinction as Honor Students for having a cumulative GPA above 3.5, as well as the students graduating with the highest GPA in their degree program, who were recognized as Top of Class.

“These students have made many sacrifices to achieve the level of excellence on display here tonight,” Tipton-Rogers said. “On behalf of the faculty and staff, I want to wish you the very best going forward.”

Additionally, two students were honored for their nominations for annual state-wide awards. Beth Thomason was nominated for the 2018 Academic Excellence Award for her academic achievements and dedication; and Naeem Ahmed was nominated for the 2018 Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award.

For more information regarding academic honors at Tri-County Community College, contact Holly Hyde at 835-4219 or visit www.tricountycc.edu.

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Andrews Middle School Teacher citation dismissed after social media controversy

April 27, 2018, 5:13 pm

≫ Next: Sheriff's Office investigates shooting in Topton

≪ Previous: Local college students honored with banquet

Note from Julia H Higdon, Principal, Andrews Middle School:

April 25, 2018

Dear AMS family, parents, and community stakeholders,

Andrews Middle School is dedicated to maintaining a strong partnership with parents and believes transparency and open communication among all stakeholders is of paramount importance. There have been recent postings on social media with inaccurate information surrounding a citation sixth grade teacher Amber Ledford received. I sincerely thank you for approaching me directly to express your concerns about Ms. Ledford. As your principal, I wish to convey facts pertaining to her citation and the mitigating circumstances surrounding it.

Ms. Ledford was not arrested.
Ms. Ledford was issued a citation for simple possession of a schedule IV controlled substance.
The substance was phentermine, a diet pill, for which she has a valid prescription.
The citation was issued because the medication was not in the original prescription container.
Ms. Ledford was on the court docket for April 24th, 2018.
After presenting to proper authorities her valid prescription for phentermine, the citation was voluntarily dismissed.
The voluntary dismissal was signed by John Hindsman, Assistant District Attorney, and filed with Cherokee Co., C.S.C. April 25, 2018. A copy will be in the office at Andrews Middle School for anyone to review.
Ms. Ledford has voluntarily offered to participate in a drug test, anytime.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter clarifying this matter. Ms. Ledford and I will be happy to meet with anyone individually who would like to discuss concerns further.

<signature removed>

Julia H Higdon
Principal
Andrews Middle School

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Sheriff's Office investigates shooting in Topton

May 2, 2018, 7:24 am

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Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated that shortly after 7:30 am on May 1st, 2018 the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office received a call for assistance at a residence on Bryson Branch Road, in the Topton Community of Cherokee County. The nature of the call was a possible domestic situation.

As units were responding to the scene, information was provided that someone may have been shot at the residence. Emergency Services Personnel were dispatched and staged until units from the Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene. Once on scene the arriving Deputy was able to determine that a 39-year-old male had been shot and required medical attention.

EMS arrived and transported the individual to a location where he was later flown to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. His condition is unknown at this time.

The investigation continued late into the afternoon, as several individuals were interviewed and search warrants were completed at the residence. The investigation is continuing and ongoing and when complete it will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for further review.

Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated, “At this time I will not comment further concerning this investigation as it is ongoing. I can say that we are not looking for any additional person(s) of interest in this case. The teamwork displayed today between law enforcement and Emergency Services is outstanding and we appreciate the level of professionalism displayed by all today. As always, these are difficult cases on everyone involved.”

To report suspicious activity and suspect violations of the law please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

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Cherokee County native joins District Attorney's Office

May 2, 2018, 10:37 am

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The District Attorney’s Office is pleased to announce that prosecutor Kimberly Hayes Harris has joined our staff. Kimberly is a native of Cherokee County, North Carolina. Upon graduating from Murphy High School she served 4 years of Active duty with the U.S. Army’s 2d Stryker Brigade as an intelligence analyst stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Tocoma, Washington. During her time on Active duty she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies from American Military University and graduated from Wake Forest University School of Law in December 2017. She took and passed the North Carolina Bar Exam in February 2018.

Mrs. Harris was sworn in today by Chief District Court Judge Richard K. Walker, with her parents Allen and Teresa Hayes, sister Abby Hayes, and husband Jacob S. Harris in attendance. Kimberly will focus on District Court and Misdemeanor appeals to Superior Court in Cherokee and Clay Counties.

“We are exceptionally pleased to have both a Veteran and native of Cherokee County joining our staff with the addition of Mrs. Harris. She demonstrated her professionalism, work ethic, and legal ability as an intern in our office during the summer of 2017 and will be an immediate asset in both Cherokee and Clay Counties,” said District Attorney Ashley Welch.

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Suspect in High Speed Pursuit Damages Two Patrol Vehicles

May 10, 2018, 12:22 pm

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Hiawassee, GA – May 8, 2018 – While on patrol on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at approximately 3:15 pm, Hiawassee Police Department (HPD) Detective Brandon Barrett observed a subject known to have an active arrest warrant driving eastbound on S Main St. Detective Barrett and the Towns County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) initiated a traffic stop on S Main St near Chatuge Way. After initially stopping for the officers, the driver of the vehicle made a U-turn and struck the front of Detective Barrett’s patrol vehicle. The driver, Angela Michelle Capozzoli of Hiawassee, then fled westbound on S Main St at a high rate of speed.

HPD and TCSO pursued the fleeing vehicle to Bugscuffle Rd, where Capozzoli struck both patrol vehicles with her vehicle, disabling one. HPD continued to pursue Capozzoli to Bugscuffle Spur, where she turned onto a dirt road and was no longer able to proceed in her vehicle. She exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a heavily wooded area where officers lost contact with her. At approximately 9:00 pm, Capozzoli was located and apprehended after a short foot pursuit by HPD Sergeant Tracy James and Officer John Carter.

“I am incredibly thankful that no one was injured during the pursuit,” said HPD Chief Paul Smith. “Acts of aggression towards law enforcement officers of this extreme are rare in Hiawassee, but obviously not impossible. Working together with the Towns County Sheriff’s Office, we were able to apprehend and bring charges against Capozzoli.”

The Towns County Sheriff’s Office has obtained arrest warrants for Capozzoli. She has been charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault Against a Law Enforcement Officer, Felony Fleeing and Attempting to Elude, Willful Obstruction of a Law Enforcement Officer, and two counts of Leaving the Scene of an Accident. She is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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Drug Suspect Arrested Following Extensive Investigation

May 14, 2018, 7:49 am

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The following press release has been issued by Town County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

On Thursday, May 10, 2018, Towns County Sheriff’s Office Investigators concluded an extensive joint investigation, assisted by investigators with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, along with personnel from the Enotah Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office. The investigation concluded with the execution of a search warrant at a residence located off Sims Road in Hiawassee, Georgia. Numerous drug purchases were made during the course of the undercover investigation. The search warrant executed also yielded a substantial quantity of drugs seized; the total street value of illegal drugs seized being over $7000.

Towns County Sheriff's Office Investigators arrested Samuel Dwayne Hedden, age 63 of Hiawassee, Georgia. Hedden was arrested on the following charges:

Five (5) Counts of Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act involving the sale of marijuana;

Four (4) Counts of Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act involving the sale of Xanax;

Three (3) Counts of Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act involving the sale of Methamphetamine;

One (1) Count of Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act Possession of Drug Related Objects;

One (1) Count of Violation of Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

The investigation is active and ongoing and additional charges are likely.

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6 charged on Federal Indictments

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