Columbia,
SC…..During its first six weeks, the state’s first Mortgage Fraud Hotline
has assisted over 180 consumers with a wide range of concerns. The hotline
went live on June 10, 2008, as part of a collaborative effort between
the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) and the South
Carolina Attorney General’s Office. The estimated 180 calls received
in that period came from consumers across the state. As expected, a
significant number of calls have come from the state’s top three metropolitan
regions: Richland-Lexington, Greenville-Spartanburg, and the Charleston
trident area.
Consumer calls cover
topics ranging from suspected fraud and deceptive practices to mortgage
trouble and requests for business information. Over 80 of the calls
received reported possible incidents of unfair and criminal practices,
which SCDCA further investigates. Expert staff operating the hotline,
which housed at SCDCA provide appropriate information and solutions
on a case-by-case basis, giving each consumer the personal attention
the concern requires. A number of calls are filed as complaints within
SCDCA where they are assigned a case analyst. Other calls are referred
to appropriate state agencies, credit counselors, and other non-profit
organizations specializing in legal and mortgage assistance.
The hotline
is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For
more information, contact the Public Information Division at 803.734.4190,
toll free in SC at 1.800.922.1594, or online at www.scconsumer.gov.
Newberry
Opera House Named Top Theater in America!
(added 07/23/08)
The Newberry Opera
House has been named the #1 Theater in America. For more information,
be sure to tune in to WKDK.
Newberry Man Drowns at Lake Greenwood State Park
Source: WSPA TV-7; WLTX TV-19 (www.wltx.com)
(added 07/20/08)
The
Greenwood County Coroner says a 26-year-old Newberry man drowned in
a state park lake Saturday evening.
Coroner
James Sanders tells WSPA-TV that an autopsy is scheduled for Hector
Sosa, who appeared to drown after diving off a pier at Lake Greenwood
State Park.
Authorities say
the incident took place around 8:00 p.m., when Sosa jumped into about
8-feet of water and never resurfaced.Investigators say Sosa was underwater
for about 20 minutes until a deputy found him about ten-feet away from
the pier.
EMS attempted
CPR but could not revive him.
The Department
of Natural Resources has now taken over the investigation and are currently
treating it as a drowning.
Body
Found Near Dreher Island Identified Source: WLTX TV-19; www.wltx.com
(added 07/20/08)
The
body found floating near Dreher Island on Saturday has been identified
by the Newberry County Coroner's Office.
The Coroner's
Office tells News19 that 70-year-old Willie Toole Jr. , of Aiken, was
found floating in Lake Murray around 6:20 p.m. Saturday.
The Newberry County
Sheriff's Office, Coroner's Office and the Department of Natural Resources
were able to retrieve the body. Toole was taken the Newberry County
Memorial Hospital, where an autopsy was conducted.
DNR says both Newberry
and Lexington County officials are investigating this incident, however,
it's believed to be an accident.
Spoofing
Gives Scam Artists Another Way to Get Information
(added 07/17/08)
The
battle against scam artists rages on according to Newberry County Sheriff
Lee Foster. With the advent of the world wide web, cell phones, voice
of IP (Internet Protocol), and computers, spoofing is a term that we
have all become familiar with and forced to deal with; however, Sheriff
Foster says that there is a new form of spoofing and scam artist are
beginning to wreak havoc on victims because they trust their caller
id.
Spoofing
is defined as unauthorized use of legitimate identification and authentication
data, however it was obtained, to mimic a subject different from the
attacker. Impersonating, masquerading, piggybacking, and mimicking are
forms of spoofing.
Foster
says that scam artists are now spoofing telephone caller IDs so that
they appear to be a call from your bank, credit card company, law enforcement,
or other trusted business. They use any business name and number that
would be trusted and then take advantage of that trust to scam the victim.
Foster
said that millions of people have internet phone equipment that can
be set to make any number appear on a caller id system. As if that were
not enough, web sites continue to be introduced that provide spoofing
services. One website sells a virtual calling card for $10 that provides
talk time to the user. The user dials a toll free number, then keys
the destination number and the caller id number to display.
In an advertisement,
spooftel.com, who is currently the “World’s Leader in Spoofing Caller
ID”, say that there service allows you to appear as the cupid of choice
when calling your Valentine on Valentine’s Day.
Spoofcard.com
not only offers the ability to change what some sees on their caller
id, but the suspect has the ability to change their voice in a variety
of ways. The caller can change their voice to male, female, or character
voices and the person receiving the call hears the transformed voice
in real time. Worse, these phone calls can be recorded by the scam artist
and later retrieved through this service.
On the
state and national level, there are cases involving criminal impersonation
by means of spoofing caller id. A suspect can call a victim and make
it appear that the call is coming from a police department or any other
person, business, or entity.
“While
technology can open new and wonderful possibilities, those who choose
to prey on innocent victims are also quick to put cutting edge technology
to work,” said Sheriff Foster. “We must come to grips with the fact
that these scams are taking place and be prepared to prevent ourselves
from becoming victims to the fraudulent attempts.”
Foster
said that to avoid become a victim of scam attempts, there are some
important tips that citizens should always keep in mind:
- Never,
ever give out person information over the telephone or computer. In
today’s world, we have no idea who we are really communicating with
and giving personal information over the phone or computer is a modern
day equivalent of Russian roulette, it will get you it is just a matter
of when.
- Never
give credit card numbers, account numbers, pin numbers, or any information
about any account you may have over the telephone. Once armed with something
as simple as the three digit code from the back of a credit card, a
scam artist can gain unlimited access into your accounts.
- Report
suspicious activity immediately. Some people wait until they are far
into the scam to report before the notify law enforcement. Often times,
they have already lost money that will likely never be recovered before
they contact law enforcement. If you have a question about any activity,
you should contact law enforcement immediately. No reputable business
would ever fault someone for having them checked out, but it may save
the victim thousands of dollars and years of time recovering from a
fraud attack.
- If you
do become a victim of fraud, contact law enforcement. Many victims become
ashamed or embarrassed that they have been involved in a fraud when
they realize that they should have realized it was a fraud early on.
While once the fraud has happened, it is extremely difficult to recover
money, law enforcement can be a valuable asset as you deal with banks,
credit card companies, and credit bureaus to restore your credit history.
Also, law enforcement maintains a database of scams, and this information
can be crucial to preventing more people from becoming victims.
- Do not
trust caller id, e-mail addresses, and technology to protect you from
scam attempts. Scam artists often use cutting edge technology to take
advantage of others. This equipment can be manipulated and then used
by the scam artist to enable them to commit their crime.
Foster
also said to remember the golden rule of scams. If it sounds too good
to be true, it probably is!
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Newberry County
Sheriff’s at (803) 321-2222 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
County
Council Meeting on July 16
(added 07/17/08)
Newberry
County Council met last night and approved first reading to postpone
reassessment. Accessor Mary Arrowood explained that the last reassessment
of property was postponed for two years but was originally scheduled
to be implemented in 2004. With a state mandate that reassessment occur
every 5 years, reassessment was scheduled to be implemented in 2009.
Arrowood argued that implementation in 2009 was unrealistic with the
postponment of the 2004 reassessment for two years, close to 4,000 appeals
on that reassessment, and a large number of new construction or renovations
to appraise. This postponment will require two more readings before
becoming official.
Council also approved
first reading of an ordinance that would place a referrendum on the
November ballot regarding video poker. The question would ask if voters
would like to see video poker allowed in Newberry County with any fees
the county collects from opporators ofsetting property taxes. Despite
the legality of video poker being in question, several councilmen stated
they wanted to allow voters to share their opinion on the issue. The
ordinance will require two more readings and a public hearing before
being sent to the justice department for final approval to go on the
ballot in November.
City
Council Meeting on July 15
(added 07/16/08)
Newberry
City Council met last night and heard first reading to increase the
solid waste fee by $1 from $6 to $7. This increase was planned to help
balance the 08/09 budget.
First reading also
passed to refinance the TIF bond which pays off the debt on the Newberry
Opera House restoration. The refinancing will save over $30,000 in interest.
First reading passed
to amend 07/08 budget correcting an accounting glitch that showed $516,000
as a use of the fund balance instead of a contribution to retained earnings.
The funds were from the community housing and development fund.
In response to several
private companies renigning on their retirement plans, the Government
Accounting Standards Board has a new GASB 45 standard that will apply
to the City of Newberry this year. GASB 45 requires that government
entities account either as a liability or in savings for the implicit
subsidy that is given to a retiree who is part of a group insurance
plan but would have had to pay more (because of their age, health,etc.)
if their were not under a group policy. The City will put in reserve
100% of the implicit subsidy for those who retired June 30 or earlier.
Those retiring after June 30 who have the full years in will also have
the city covering up to $190 of the implicit subsidy, which is 100%
of the implicit subsidy caluculation for this year. Those retiring after
June 30 who have only 20 years with the City or 18 years with the police
department will have The City covering up to $95 of the implicit subsidy,
which is 50% of this year's implicit subsidy calculation. The City will
not be paying the implicit subsidy for any spouses or dependents of
those retiring after June 30 of this year. The City will cover none
of the implicit subsidy for those retiring after June 30 with less than
20 years with the City or 18 years with the police department.
After executive
session, Council announced that they had rehired Police Chief Jackie
Swindler for an additional five years under the TERRI plan.
Council also voted
to allow a wedding to be held in Memorial Park on December 6 but to
hold true to the administrative policy of no alcohol on city property
at private events.
Fire
Destroys Assisted Living Facility in Little Mountain
(added 07/16/08)
A
fire destroyed Open Arms Community Care in Little Mountain early Wednesday
morning. No injuries have been reported. See more here.
School
Shooter Response Training in Newberry County
(added 07/10/08)
The
Newberry County Sheriff’s Office will once again be conducting cutting
edge training on responding to critical incidents particularly an active
shooter at a school.
The training
will allow officers to train in the most realistic training available
in today’s world in a controlled environment.
The officers
will practice responding to an active shooter at a school. The officers
will encounter students, teachers, and suspects (all played by other
officers or volunteers) when they arrive at the school. Officers and
suspects will be armed with simunition (similar to paint ball weapons)
guns and will be forced to negotiate the school stopping the shooter
while protecting and safely evacuating the student.
The training,
which will be July 14-17 at Mid Carolina Middle School, begins with
a classroom session that serves as a refresher to the officers of the
overview of the critical incident response plan.
“It is
some of the most realistic training available today,” said Sheriff Foster.
“We started conducting this training 5 years ago and agencies from across
the state come to participate because of the realistic nature of the
training.”
Foster
also said that while they have trained for a number of years that incidents
like Virginia Tech, Cleveland, and Russia, which was a terrorist attack
on a school, force them to adjust the training to the latest information
learned from this incidents.
On Wednesday
morning, EMS will also participate in the training transporting mock
injuries to the hospital and their role in the plan which Sheriff Foster
described as encompassing most public service agencies in Newberry County.
“We have
realized that it will take many organizations from law enforcement,
EMS, rescue, fire, school district and many others to make responding
to such a situation effective,” said Foster. “As these type incidents
seem to grow in number and occurrence, we have long felt that the best
course of action for Newberry County is to prepare for the worst and
pray that it never happen.”
Foster
commended Superintendent Bennie Bennett and the entire School District
of Newberry County staff for their support, cooperation, and participation
in an ongoing effort to keep the children of Newberry County safe and
secure in the educational environment.
Foster
said that the schools practice lock down drills and have regular meetings
on the emergency plans for the School District and that the School Resource
Officers and the Sheriff’s Office are not only included in these plans,
but are allowed to play an active part.
“We are
all winners when those of us who have chose to serve the community work
together,” said Foster.
In an effort
to inform the public about these efforts, the Newberry County Sheriff’s
Office will again offer a media day at the training. The media day this
year will be on Thursday, July 17 at 8AM. Members of the media and the
cameras will be invited to the training and will be allowed to participate
as much a time allows. They will see first-hand the pressures and decisions
that have to be made during an entry and response such as this.
Mid-Carolina
Middle School is located at 6834 U.S. Highway 76, Prosperity, SC.
Driving
Class For Seniors Back By Popular Demand
(added 07/08/08)
After many
requests to repeat the driving class specifically designed to improve
the driving skills of those age 50 and older, the Newberry County Sheriff’s
Office is sponsoring a driver safety program designed by AARP that is
specifically geared toward drivers age 50 and above. This is the fourth
offering of the class, which has received tremendous response each time
it has been offered.
“The Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office is proud to be a sponsor of this event,” said
Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster. “We believe that this class serves
as an excellent opportunity for citizen 50 and older to sharpen their
driving abilities and learn skills that might even save their lives.”
Foster
said that the previous classes received rave reviews from the attendees
and that this class offers citizens an opportunity to sharpen driving
skills and make themselves safer as they operate a vehicle on the roads.
The class
will be taught on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, from 8:00AM until 5:00PM
at Piedmont Technical College located at 540 Wilson Road, Newberry,
SC.
While there
is no charge for the class, there is a $10.00 fee for materials. In
addition, the AARP is providing a wonderful opportunity for you to bring
your friend, your spouse, your neighbor and your family members.
To register
for the class, you can call the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office at
(803) 321-2211 and ask for Sheriff Foster or Major Todd Johnson or e
mail your request to lfoster@newberrycounty.net. Please provide your
name, address, telephone number, and e mail address if you have one
when you register for the class. Space is limited to the first 35 people
so please register early.
Attendees
may receive a reduction on their automobile insurance; however, the
reduction amounts vary depending on the insurance company.
“The course
offers more information about various safe driving strategies, including
how to handle distractions, aggressive drivers and driving with trucks,”
says Jeff Jefcoat, who will be the instructor of the class. “The course
also includes expanded and improved video presentations on a number
of important driving topics.”
To ensure
50+ drivers stay safe behind the wheel, the course’s curriculum has
been updated to reflect the most current driving information and safety
tips available. The driver safety course is designed to educate participants
about how best to reduce traffic violations, crashes, and chances for
injuries; update driver’s knowledge about relevant laws; and provide
safe driving strategies to compensate for age-related changes that affect
one’s ability. The eight hour course, typically taught in two four-hour
sessions, also stresses the importance of periodically monitoring one’s
own and other’s driving skills and capabilities.
Updates
to the edition 6 curriculum addresses such topics as:
- How overall
fitness affects driving
- Important
strategies for staying crash-free
- Challenges
of city vs. rural driving
- Tips
for highway driving and driving with trucks, buses, and other large
vehicles
- Understand
a vehicle’s safety features and new vehicle technology
- Tips
for trying other transportation
- Warning
signs of unsafe driving
Over the
past 28 years, the AARP Driver Safety Program has provided instruction
to more than 10 million participants seeking to refresh their driving
skills. The course is taught throughout the U.S. by roughly 10,000 AARP
– trained volunteers.
July
4th Parade on Harper Street
(updated 07/07/08)
The
annual Independence Day Parade on Harper Street took place last Friday
morning. Below are some scenes from the parade.
Sheriff
Warns of Scam Attempt
(added 07/03/08)
Newberry
County Sheriff Lee Foster is warning citizens about a scam that appears
to give the victim their money up front, but always ends in financial
loss to the victim.
The scam
starts as someone sends you a check or money order and asks you to deposit
it into your account and then wire-transfer them the money. By the way,
they offer a nice bonus from the money for you as a special “thank you”
for you assistance.
The “pitch”
stays pretty much the same, but this scam might appear in various disguises
such as:
- You are
overpaid for an item you sold on the internet and then asked to wire-transfer
the extra money.
- You receive
a check and notification that you have won a foreign lottery or sweepstakes.
You are instructed to deposit the check and wire transfer back $2000
to $5000 for taxes so that you can collect the rest of your winnings.
- A work
at home offer promises that in return for depositing a money order of
check to your bank account, you can a percentage of the money after
wire transferring the rest.
- Or, someone
in a chat room asks you for a favor, just cash their check and wire
them the money.
REGARDLESS
of the pitch, the results will always be the same. The check or money
order you receive will be counterfeit. It will be returned to your bank
unpaid, and then it will be deducted from your account leaving you responsible
for the entire amount and any fees associated with the loss.
Sheriff
Foster said that while the banks do a great job or recognizing most
of the counterfeit checks and stopping the person from making a terrible
mistake some do slip through. Federal Law requires that banks make deposited
funds available with 1 to 5 business days, so just because you can get
to the money does not mean the check was good. Because these checks
and money orders originate outside the country, they can often take
weeks to clear the bank.
The simple
way to avoid this scam is to never, ever accept checks or money orders
from anyone to deposit into your account for a “turn around” payment.
Sheriff
Foster said the answer should always be, “ABSOLUTELY NOT!” The offer
may sound like a great deal, but as usual it is just too good to be
true. The check you receive will be counterfeit and you will be out
the money.
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Newberry County
Sheriff’s at (803) 321-2222 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
COLUMBIA, South Carolina - - United States Attorney W. Walter Wilkins
announced today that a Federal Grand Jury indicted George Russell Griffin,
Jr., 26, of Pomaria, South Carolina, on four counts of odometer tampering,
and two counts of causing an altered automobile title to be transported
in interstate commerce. Griffin faces a maximum possible punishment
of 10 years in prison for each odometer tampering charge, and three
years for each altered title charge. He also faces fines totaling $1.5
million dollars.
The charges
follow an investigation of allegations that Griffin under-reported the
actual mileage of certain cars he sold at his car dealership, Russell
Griffin Motor Company, in Newberry County in 2003 and 2004.
The case
was investigated by the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs
and is assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah B. Barbier of the
Columbia office for prosecution.
The United
States Attorney stated that all charges in this Indictment are merely
accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and
unless proven guilty.
Coroner's
Primary
(added 07/01/08)
Michael
Thomas will be the Republican candidate for Newberry County Coroner
in the November election. With the unfortunate death of Tommy Hedgepath,
who was the only candidate for coroner, the books were reopened - resulting
in this Republican primary Tuesday. Michael Thomas received 346 votes
to John Pollards' 272 votes. The largest returns came in from Thomas'
home area of Whitmire with all 88 votes at the Whitmire city box going
to Thomas. Thomas, who is 26, got an early start in politics as a member
of Whitmire City Council at age 18. Pollard pledged that his time will
continue to be dedicated to volunteering with emergency services and
wished Thomas, who is also a fire department volunteer, good luck in
November when he will face Democratic candidate Craig Newton.
School
Board Meeting on June 30
(added 07/01/08)
Newberry
County School Board met last night (June 30) and held final reading
for the 08/09 budget. The $45 million school operating budget is approximately
a 3.6% increase over last year’s budget thus requiring close to 4 additional
mills in taxes. (Official millage will be set in the fall.) School debt
service is estimated to remain at the self imposed freeze of 53 mills.
The new state penny sales tax is supposed to cover school operational
millage for owner occupied property taxes. Between first reading and
last night the state department completed an audit of owner occupied
homes and discovered an additional $957,000 in revenue due the district
for 07/08. 08/09 revenue is based on this base year. The additional
revenue that is expected allowed the district to balance the budget
without using budgeted fund balance or carrying over funds from the
07/08 fiscal year. The additional revenue from the state also allows
the district to add an additional $300,000 to the budget for contingencies
such as mid-year budget cuts and continued gas/heating inflation. One
of the issues during the budget discussions has been several positions
across the district that were cut by attrition. Little Mountian faculty
and staff has been especially vocal. No additional positions were added
at final reading, however, administration maintained that upon final
classroom numbers in the fall they will take appropriate action if the
student/teacher ratio is deemed "too high."
Law
Enforcement Planning 19th Annual July 4 Event for Newberry
(added 06/29/08)
Law
enforcement in Newberry County are promising a huge bang for the 4th
of July in a long running free event.
The Newberry
County Law Enforcement Officer's Association is once again proud to
sponsor the 4th of July celebration at the campus of Newberry High School.
The festivities
will begin on July 4th at 6PM when free rides for the children open.
The rides include inflatable slides and other fun rides and games. As
always, there is no charge for the rides.
A DJ will
provide music throughout the event.
There will
also be various concessions available at the event for a purchase price
from the vendor.
At around
8PM, local business man Trent Purcell and friends will offer a sky diving
demonstration as they land inside the football stadium.
The rides
will close at 8:45PM in preparation for the highlight of the evening
as one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks displays at 9PM.
This is
the 19th year of the celebration that continues to grow in attendance
and events.
However,
organizers say that expenses have also continually increased. This year's
event will cost more than $10,000 and they say will costs have increased
the loss of several sponsors and tough economic conditions has greatly
reduced the donations received this year.
If you
would like to make a donation prior to the event, you can mail it the
Newberry Count Law Enforcement Officer's Association, P.O. Box 247,
Newberry, SC 29108.
Donations
will also be accepted at the event.
Newberry
High School is located at 3113 Main Street in Newberry.
Second
Person Sought in Meth Lab Arrested
(added 06/27/08)
The
second man being sought for the operation of an illegal drug lab in
the Whitmire section of Newberry County has been arrested according
to police.
Authorities
say that Earnest Eugene Hannah, 42, of 80 Lowry Street, Whitmire, SC
was taken into custody yesterday afternoon when he surrendered himself
to law enforcement authorities at General Sessions Court in Newberry.
He was taken to the Newberry County Detention Center where bond has
been set at $10,000.00.
Police
said that on Tuesday morning June 10 just after 11:00AM, a Newberry
County Civil Process Officer was serving a court ordered eviction papers
at a residence located at 80 Lowry Street in the Whitmire section of
Newberry County. The tenants of the residence were not at the residence,
and the landlord began to check the residence. When the landlord saw
an unusual setup in the house, he showed it to the deputy. The deputy
immediately realized the danger and radioed to the Whitmire Police Department
since the residence is in their jurisdiction and officers from the Whitmire
Police Department obtained a search warrant for the residence.
When the
officers served the search warrant at the residence, the officers discovered
a small working methamphetamine lab in the home. The officers also discovered
a small bag of methamphetamine in the home. The bag weighed approximately
.4 gram.
Officers
from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office specially trained in the cleanup
of such labs responded to the scene and assumed the clean up at the
residence. A licensed Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) contractor also
responded to the scene for cleanup.
The byproducts
and fumes from such laboratories can be extremely dangerous and must
be treated as hazardous material. Officers say that both flammable and
corrosive materials were found, and that the most substantial threat
to the community from this lab was a threat of fire or explosion. They
said that such labs can sometimes generate dangerous fumes or toxic
fumes that can be dangerous to the household residents or contacting
the lab.
The Hannah’s
were the only two residents of the home, and there were no children
residing in the home.
The Whitmire
Fire Department, Whitmire Rescue Squad, Newberry Fire Department, Newberry
County Hazardous Materials team, and the Department of Health and Environmental
Control (DHEC) all responded to the residence during the cleanup operation.
Officers
immediately began searching for the residents of the home who were identified
as:
Earnest
Eugene Hannah, 41, of 80 Lowry Street, Whitmire, and Carol Hannah, 46,
also of 80 Lowry Street in Whitmire and warrants were issued charging
both with Manufacturing Methamphetamine.
Earnest
Hannah has a prior record that extends to 1986 including multiple offenses
of Driving Under the Influence and alcohol related charges. His only
drug conviction was a 1994 Simple Possession of Marijuana conviction
for which he paid a $200 fine.
Carol Hannah
has no prior convictions.
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Whitmire Police
Department at (803) 694-2121 or Newberry County Sheriff’s at (803) 276-2222
or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
Arrests,
Drugs, and Money Found in Drug Raid
(added 06/27/08)
A
Thursday morning drug raid has landed two people in jail after officers
seized illegal drugs and money from the home.
On Thursday
morning just after 8:30AM, officers executed a search warrant on the
residence located 38 Brown Chapel Lane, Newberry, SC. The officers say
that once inside the residence they located a large amount of illegal
drugs, money, and drug paraphernalia.
Sheriff
Lee Foster said that officers located approximately 7 grams of crack
cocaine, approximately 1.5 grams of marijuana, more than $800.00 in
cash, and scales and other items used in the sale of illegal drugs when
they searched the residence.
Deputies
say that they arrested two people at the residence. Those people were
identified as:
Alex Decheion
Wheeler, 26, of 350 Wise Street, Newberry, SC who was charged with Possession
With Intent To Distribute Crack Cocaine and Possession of Marijuana.
Bond has been set on Wheeler at $35,000.00
Sonya Rae
Bates, 43, of 38 Brown Chapel Lane, Newberry, SC, who was charged with
Possession of Marijuana. Bates was released on a $565.00 personal appearance
bond.
Foster
said that complaints were filed about the residence in reference to
possible ongoing drug activity at the residence. The complaints launched
a law enforcement investigation that culminated in the search warrants
and arrests Thursday morning.
“It is
imperative that law enforcement and the community share information
about this type of activity,” said Sheriff Foster. “We were able to
use the information gained from the community to start this investigation
and obtain sufficient information to get a search warrant. This cooperation
is essential if we are going to be effective in cleaning up our communities
and neighborhoods.”
“It is
also important for the community to realize that once such information
about drugs and other activities is received that we must confirm the
information and in addition secure enough information to take legal
action,” said Foster. “Sometimes when it appears nothing is being done
about the complaint, law enforcement is actually very busy conducting
an investigation so that more arrests and seizures such as this can
occur.”
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Newberry County
Sheriff’s at (803) 321-2222 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
Detention
Center Sergeant Collapses While Playing Softball
(added 06/27/08)
It
is with deep regret that the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office announces
the passing of Sergeant Charles Harshman of the Newberry County Sheriff’s
Office, Detention Center Division.
Sergeant
Harshman, 58, had been employed with the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office
in the Detention Center Division for 5+ years. He was extremely active
in many aspects of the day to day operation of the Sheriff’s Office
and is described by co-workers as someone who would do anything asked
of him and always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done.
Harshman
was playing softball in an adult softball league last night at about
9:15PM when he suffered a fatal heart attack and died. Fellow officers
and others started CPR and EMS workers arrived and did a phenomenal
job in attempts to revive him as did the hospital staff. He was pronounced
dead just after 10PM last night.
Sergeant
Harshman was named the Correctional Officer of the Year for the Newberry
County Detention Center for 2007.
He was
also a devoted family man and a retired Navy Seal.
Photo
at left: Sergeant Harshman and Sheriff Foster when he was named the
Newberry County Correctional Officer at an awards ceremony in December
2007.
Free
Patriotic Concert at Newberry Opera House on Saturday
(added 06/27/08)
The
282nd Army “Victory” Band’s from Fort Jackson will perform a special
Holiday Concert at the Newberry Opera House on Saturday, June 28th.
It’s a great way to begin your 4th of July holiday celebrations and
to put the whole family in a patriotic mood.
The 282nd
dates from 1869 when it was organized as the Band, 21st Infantry, Richmond,
Virginia. Serving with distinction in the Indian Wars, the Philippine
Insurrection and World War II, the band earned battle streamers for
these actions.
From 1914
to 1949, the Band went through many reorganizations and redesignations,
serving in Washington, Hawaii, and Korea, where it was deactivated in
Seoul, in 1949. In 1956 the 282d Army Band was reactivated and assigned
to Fort Jackson, South Carolina. The primary mission of the band is
to promote readiness and perform music that maintains the morale and
esprit de corps of the soldiers stationed at Ft. Jackson. The band also
supports the local community and surrounding areas in parades, by presenting
concerts, and participating in ceremonies throughout the Carolinas.
The band is comprised of 40 dedicated professional soldier/musicians
capable of performing virtually any musical style.
They will
play a wide ranging repertoire from contemporary and popular literature,
solo features with band accompaniment, classical transcriptions, and
novelty numbers, standard swing, jazz, blues, Latin, and rock styles
and their signature patriotic tunes. Whether performing for official
military functions or supporting the community, the 282d Army “Victory”
Band provides the highest quality of musicianship and professionalism.
It’s a perfect way for your family to begin the holidays and to support
the great work of our armed forces! This Saturday, June 28th at 8 pm.
Tickets
are free but reservations are necessary. Please call the Box Office
at 803-276-6264 or visit online at www.newberryoperahouse.com.
Kirksey
Koon Wins Democratic Primary Runoff
(added 06/24/08)
Incumbent
County Councilman Mike Hawkins was defeated in Tuesday's Democratic
Primary Runoff by challenger Kirksey Koon. Koon received 196 votes to
Hawkins 166.
Koon becomes the Democratic nominee for Newberry County Council from
District 4 and will face Republican opposition in the November election.
Prosperity
Man Who Fired on Police Pleads Guilty
(added 06/23/08)
United
States Attorney W. Walter Wilkins stated that TRAVIS WADE LEAPHART (left),
age 36, of Prosperity, South Carolina, pled guilty in federal court
to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, a violation
of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). United States District
Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr., accepted the plea and will impose sentence
Leaphart at a later date.
Evidence
presented at the change of plea hearing established that on July 7,
2007, an officer with the Prosperity Police Department was speaking
with a motorist during a traffic stop on Highway 76 when he heard popping
noises and observed the back glass of his police vehicle shatter. The
officer quickly realized that his vehicle was being fired upon and after
directing the motorist to safety, he took cover and called for back-up.
Determining the shots fired came from a near-by residence, officers
with the Prosperity Police Department and the Newberry County Sheriff’s
Office approached the car port area of the home and observed Leaphart
sitting in a swing. When the officers demanded to see his hands, Leaphart
produced a handgun and fired at the officers. The officers returned
fire, but no one was injured in the exchange. Leaphart was taken into
custody shortly thereafter and his loaded pistol was secured.
A convicted
felon, Leaphart is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Mr. Wilkins
stated the statutory maximum penalty Leaphart can receive is a fine
of $250, 000 and imprisonment for 10 years.
The case
was investigated by agents of the Prosperity Police Department, the
Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Lance Crick
of the Greenville office handled the case. This prosecution was a part
of Project CeaseFire, a joint local, state, and federal initiative which
seeks to aggressively prosecute individuals who unlawfully use, possess,
or transfer firearms.
Newberry
College Receives Gift from Dufford Family (added 06/18/08)
Newberry
College announced that a $101,609 gift from the estate of C.A. Dufford
Jr. was presented to the College by Dr. William Dufford and Ms. Doris
Dufford.
Vice President
for Academic Affairs Wayne Kannaday, Vice President for Business Affairs
John Robertson, and Evangelical Lutheran Church in America planned gift
officer the Rev. Mark Scott accepted the gift on behalf of Newberry
College.
The gift
will be used for academic and faculty needs at the College.
L-R:
Dr. Wayne Kannaday, Rev. Mark Scott, John Robertson and Bill Dufford;
SEATED: Doris Dufford
Newberry
College Dedicates The Darrow Naval Trainee House (added 06/18/08)
Twenty
World War II veterans were at Newberry College this past weekend for
the Newberry College Naval Trainee Reunion and the dedication of The
Darrow Naval Trainee House, the newest addition to the college campus.
A gift
from Don and Kitty Darrow of Mukilteo, Wash., permitted the College
to purchase the house located at 1814 College Street in Newberry. The
building will house the offices of development, marketing and public
relations and a naval trainee museum.
According
to Newberry College Vice President for Institutional Advancement Chuck
Wendt, “The house will be a lasting testament to the sailors who called
Newberry College their home during World War II.”
The Navy
V-12 program was initiated in 1942 to train officers to man ships, fly
planes and command forces. Newberry College became one of 131 colleges
and universities in the nation to participate in the program. During
the 27 months the V-12 program was a part of Newberry College, over
800 naval trainees were assigned to the College. These trainees consisted
of both V-12 cadets who were deck officers and V-5 cadets who were flight
officers.
On
October 31, 1945, the V-12 Unit was decommissioned and Newberry College
returned to its civilian status.
“Many of
these men had not heard of Newberry College before the summer of 1943,”
said Wendt. “And even though they only spent a short time here, they
have a love for the College and the city of Newberry. Thanks to the
Darrow’s generosity, this house will stand as a constant reminder of
the courage and bravery these men have shown. Their legacy here will
never be forgotten.”
President
Zais cuts the ribbon of the Darrow Naval Trainee House.
Benedict Died of Irregular Heartbeat (added 06/17/08)
A
report released on Tuesday said that Heath Benedict, former Newberry
College football standout, died in March of an irregular heartbeat.
See full
story provided by wltx.com
(WLTX, TV 19).
UPDATE:
One Meth Lab Suspect Now in Custody; Other Still Being Sought
(added 06/12/08)
One
of the two people being sought in connection with the operation of a
methamphetamine lab in Newberry County is now in custody and police
are continuing their search for the second suspect.
Authorities
say that Carol Allison Hannah (left), 47, of 80 Lowry Street,
Whitmire, SC was taken into custody last night at about 8:00PM by the
Whitmire Police Department when she returned to the residence of Lowry
Street. Police think she may have been attempting to gather some personal
belongings from the home from which they were being evicted. She was
taken into custody without incident. She was taken to the Newberry County
Detention Center where bond has been set at $50,000.00.
Police
said that on Tuesday morning just after 11:00AM, a Newberry County Civil
Process Officer was serving a court ordered eviction papers at a residence
located at 80 Lowry Street in the Whitmire section of Newberry County.
The tenants of the residence were not at the residence, and the landlord
began to check the residence. When the landlord saw an unusual setup
in the house, he showed it to the deputy. The deputy immediately realized
the danger and radioed to the Whitmire Police Department since the residence
is in their jurisdiction and officers from the Whitmire Police Department
obtained a search warrant for the residence.
When the
officers served the search warrant at the residence, the officers discovered
a small working methamphetamine lab in the home. The officers also discovered
a small bag of methamphetamine in the home. The bag weighed approximately
.4 gram.
Officers
from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office specially trained in the cleanup
of such labs responded to the scene and assumed the clean up at the
residence. A licensed Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) contractor also
responded to the scene for cleanup.
The byproducts
and fumes from such laboratories can be extremely dangerous and must
be treated as hazardous material. Officers say that both flammable and
corrosive materials were found, and that the most substantial threat
to the community from this lab was a threat of fire or explosion. They
said that such labs can sometimes generate dangerous fumes or toxic
fumes that can be dangerous to the household residents or contacting
the lab.
The Hannah’s
were the only two residents of the home, and there were no children
residing in the home.
The Whitmire
Fire Department, Whitmire Rescue Squad, Newberry Fire Department, Newberry
County Hazardous Materials team, and the Department of Health and Environmental
Control (DHEC) all responded to the residence during the cleanup operation.
Officers
immediately began searching for the residents of the home who were identified
as Earnest
Eugene Hannah, 41, of 80 Lowry Street, Whitmire, and Carol Hannah, 46,
also of 80 Lowry Street in Whitmire and warrants were issued charging
both with Manufacturing Methamphetamine.
Earnest
Hannah has a prior record that extends to 1986 including multiple offenses
of Driving Under the Influence and alcohol related charges. His only
drug conviction was a 1994 Simple Possession of Marijuana conviction
for which he paid a $200 fine.
Carol Hannah
has no prior convictions.
Police
are continuing their search for Ernest Hannah (left) and say
at this point they do not have any leads on his whereabouts. They are
asking anyone with any information to contact the Whitmire Police Department
of the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Whitmire Police
Department at (803) 694-2121 or Newberry County Sheriff’s at (803) 276-2222
or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
Copper Thieves Arrested for Newberry Thefts
(added 06/11/08)
Two
Spartanburg County men are in jail this morning charged with stealing
the copper from air conditioning units from of all places, churches.
Sheriff
Lee Foster said that once again communication and information sharing
between law enforcement agencies has enabled authorities to clear up
a rash of crimes across two counties and multiple jurisdictions.
“Taking
advantage of anyone through criminal activity is always horrible,” said
Sheriff Foster. “But, to prey on churches as well as these businesses
in absolutely despicable.”
On May
12 of this year, Flint Hill Baptist Church located on Highway 66 in
the Whitmire section of Newberry County reported that someone had vandalized
their air conditioning units and had stolen all of the copper from the
units. They estimated the damage and theft at $10,000.00.
Officers
from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office then began checking all of
the churches in the area and discovered that the 2 air conditioning
units at Mt. Zion Church located on Beth Eden Church Road in Newberry
County had also been vandalized and the copper stolen. They estimated
damage and theft at $7500.00.
Sheriff
Foster said that on May 19, investigators were called to Whitmire to
assist the Whitmire Police Department in processing a burglary scene
at Mom’s Place located on Church Street and a car believed to be associated
with the burglary. Officers found a part of the cash register and a
laptop computer from the burglary in the car and in the surrounding
area. They also discovered other items that were later identified as
stolen from other burglaries.
Foster
said that it was then that alert investigators found a pair of bolt
cutters with traces of copper in the cutting blades. Recognizing the
connection, the investigators collected that evidence and sent it to
the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for processing.
Foster
said that it was the combined efforts of investigators from the Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office and officers with the Whitmire Police Department
that made the difference from there. Officers developed two men as suspects
in the case based of their use of the vehicle discovered near the scene
with the stolen items in them.
Police
say that the two men have not only been charged with the Burglary at
Mom’s Place and the thefts from the two churches, but will also be charged
for similar thefts at two churches in Laurens County, and a burglary
at a hotel in Clinton.
Sheriff
Foster indentified the men as:
David Lee
Simmons, 22, who is homeless but is from the Spartanburg County area.
He will be charged with Burglary from the incident in Whitmire and two
counts of Grand Larceny and two counts of Malicious Injury to Real Property
in Newberry County.
Anthony
Trey Vaughn, 21, who is homeless but is from the Spartanburg County
area. He also will be charged with Burglary from the incident in Whitmire
and two counts of Grand Larceny and two counts of Malicious Injury to
Real Property in Newberry County.
Vaughn
is currently in the Newberry County Detention Center and will be charged
later today. No bond hearing has been scheduled.
Simmons
is in the Spartanburg County Detention Center on unrelated charges.
He will be brought to Newberry County when he completes his sentence
of those charges which is anticipated to be sometime around May 20,
2008.
“I am pleased
with the level of cooperation that we continue to see with our law enforcement
partners,” said Foster. “I would also like to commend the outstanding
efforts of all the investigators and officers who worked so hard to
make these arrests possible.
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Newberry County
Sheriff’s at (803) 276-2222 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
Newberry
Primary Results
(added 06/11/08)
Benji
Chapman is the Republican nominee for Newberry County Treasurer. Chapman
defeated Jackie Haltiwanger in Tuesday's Republican Primary receiving
1406 votes to Haltiwanger's 980.
In other totals, Steve Stockman is the nominee of the party for County
Council District 2 as he received 497 votes to 241 for John Hunter.
In County council District 4, Kenneth W. Sanders defeated Todd Morris
236 to 133. Sanders becomes the Republican nominee in District 4.
On the Democratic side,District 4 Incumbent County Councilman Mike Hawkins
will be in a runoff on Tuesday June 24th with Kirksey Koon. Hawkins
received 115 votes while Koon garnered 96. The other candidate D. Wyman
Cook received 54 votes.
In other local totals from the Republican Primary, Senator Lindsey Graham
received 1828 votes while Buddy Witherspoon received 583.
In the Democratic Primary for US Senate Michael Cone received 320 votes
while Bob Conley totaled 301.
In the Democratic Primary for State Senate District 18, Pete Oliver
led Newberry County with 335 votes to Michael Ray Ellisor's 310.
City
Council Meeting on June 10
(added 06/11/08)
Newberry
City Council met last night and held first reading on the 08/09 budget.
The $32.7 million budget is balanced with:
3.6 additional
mills of taxes (This 4.1% increase fits within the State’s millage increase
cap. It takes operational millage from 89.7 to 93.3.)
$1 increase in residential solid waste collection fee
$158,000 in budgeted use of the fund balance (This non-recurring funding
will be used specifically for the storm water study.)
4.17% increase in electrical rates (This is a pass through of electrical
rate increases from PMPA.)
7.5% increase in wastewater rates (This increase will pay for anticipated
debt related to the rehab and expansion at the wastewater plant.)
The planned cost of living raise for employees has also been decreased
from 4-3% and the merit raise eliminated to help balance this year’s
budget.
The only
major changes in the budget since the council’s work sessions were an
adjustment in the estimated revenue from the sale of water and a decrease
in projected revenue from utility charges to Saluda. Saluda asked that
their rate increase be delayed until October to allow them to cash flow
the additional funding. These adjustments in the utility department’s
revenue resulted in the postponing of some capital projects to mid-year.
Final reading
of the 08/09 budget is on the agenda for June 17 at 7pm.
Second
and final reading passed to repeal adoption of the International Property
Maintenance Code by civil authority and make the International Property
Maintenance Code enforceable as a criminal offense so that the police
department can enforce code violations.
Second
and final reading also passed to change the zoning for the new development
planned off of Hillbrook Lane. Zoning changes from R-10 residential
to R-8 zoning. This change allows the lots to be 8,000 sq feet instead
of 10,000 sq ft thus allowing 6 additional units to be built.
Council
approved final reading to add the President of Newberry College and
the President of the Newberry Opera House Guild as ex-officio members
of the NOH Foundation Board. The President of Newberry College has been
serving since the first year, however, it had not been formalized until
this time.
Michael
Wood was honored for 5 years with the Police Department and Ms. Bette
Brannon, Administrative Assistant to the City Manager, HR Director,
and City Council, received her City rocking chair honoring her 30 years
of service.
Council
passed first reading on an ordinance to allow offsite high rise signs
in an interstate overlay district. The district has a 1500 ft radius
from the center of the intersection. Businesses are still limited to
one high rise sign be it onsite or offsite. The issue arose with new
businesses planned below the road line of site on the northeast quadrant
of Exit 76. If final reading passes, this will allow these new businesses
to put up their sign on the opposite side of the interstate for visibility.
First reading
passed to rezone 2544 Kinard St from residential to office commercial.
The property is owned by NCMH and upon final reading could accommodate
future unspecified medical service.
First reading
passed to implement a 4.17% electrical rate increase and 7.5% increase
in sewer rates. The electrical rate increase is a direct pass through
of electrical rate increases from PMPA. The sewer rate increases allows
for anticipated debt service on the rehabilitation and expansion of
the wastewater plant.
Council
approved first reading to make minor adjustments to fiscal year 07/08
budget. This was approved by title only.
Council
approved a memorandum of agreement with Shells Construction regarding
an incentive program for building in the city of Newberry. A $143,170
deferred forgivable loan was approved. This loan is equal to the 10-year
tax return on the project at build out and a $1,000 per unit tap fee
credit. The agreement states that "Upon the completion and issuance
of a certificate of occupancy for each house constructed, a credit of
$6,225 would be applied to the outstanding principal balance of the
loan." Once completed the infrastructure will be deeded to the
City. A similar agreement is being finalized for the Hillbrook Lane
subdivision. The funding for this loan comes from city funds and funding
from CNNGA. Plans are to replace the funds as property taxes begin coming
in from this property so that the fund works as a revolving fund for
additional housing project incentives.
Meth
Lab Found in Newberry County
(added 06/10/08)
An
alert Newberry County Deputy Sheriff doing a routine eviction has uncovered
a methamphetamine lab in Newberry County.
Just after
11:00 AM, a Newberry County Civil Process Officer was serving a court
ordered eviction papers at a residence located at 80 Lowry Street in
the Whitmire section of Newberry County. The tenants of the residence
were not at the residence, and the landlord began to check the residence.
When the
landlord saw an unusual setup in the house, he showed it to the deputy.
The deputy immediately realized the danger and radioed to the Whitmire
Police Department since the residence is in their jurisdiction and officers
from the Whitmire Police Department obtained a search warrant for the
residence.
*(The Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for the service of civil process
and eviction papers throughout Newberry County including inside the
city jurisdictions.)*
When
the officers served the search warrant at the residence, the officers
discovered a small working methamphetamine lab in the home. The officers
also discovered a small bag of methamphetamine in the home. The bag
weighed approximately .4 gram.
Officers
from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office specially trained in the cleanup
of such labs responded to the scene and assumed the clean up at the
residence. A licensed Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) contractor also
responded to the scene for cleanup.
The
byproducts and fumes from such laboratories can be extremely dangerous
and must be treated as hazardous material. Officers say that both flammable
and corrosive materials were found, and that the most substantial threat
to the community from this lab was a threat of fire or explosion. They
said that such labs can sometimes generate dangerous fumes or toxic
fumes that can be dangerous to the household residents or contacting
the lab.
The Hannah’s
were the only two residents of the home, and there were no children
residing in the home.
The Whitmire
Fire Department, Whitmire Rescue Squad, Newberry Fire Department, Newberry
County Hazardous Materials team, and the Department of Health and Environmental
Control (DHEC) all responded to the residence during the cleanup operation.
Officers
say that they are now seeking two individuals in association with this
discovery.
Police
say that Earnest Eugene Hannah (left), 41, of 80 Lowry Street,
Whitmire, and Carol Hannah, 46, also of 80 Lowry Street in Whitmire
are being sought by police for Manufacturing Methamphetamine.
Earnest
Hannah has a prior record that extends to 1986 including multiple offenses
of Driving Under the Influence and alcohol related charges. His only
drug conviction was a 1994 Simple Possession of Marijuana conviction
for which he paid a $200 fine.
Carol Hannah
has no prior convictions.
“We work
together well with the Sheriff’s Office and all of our volunteer emergency
services, and incidents like this show our need to work together as
a team,” said Whitmire Police Chief Jeremiah Sinclair.
“We are
pleased to enjoy this kind of working relationship with the Whitmire
Police Department and the many agencies who responded to this incident,”
said Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster. “We have specially trained
officers on staff for just such a response as it is our continuing commitment
to provide the highest possible law enforcement services to the people
of Newberry County. These types of labs can be extremely dangerous,
and it is necessary to clean them up as quickly as possible, but it
must also be done as safely as possible.”
If you
have any information about this case, please contact the Whitmire Police
Department at (803) 694-2121 or Newberry County Sheriff’s at (803) 276-2222
or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC or www.sccrimestoppers.com.
School
Board Meeting on June 9
(added 06/10/08)
Newberry
County School Board met last night and held the public hearing for the
08/09 budget. The $44.6 million school operating budget is approximately
a 3.6% increase over last year’s budget thus requiring close to 4 additional
mills in taxes. (Official millage will be set in the fall.) School debt
service is estimated to remain at the self imposed freeze of 52 mills.
No one
spoke at the public hearing on the budget. However, the silent majority
in the audience were faculty members of Little Mountain Elementary protesting
the reduction of an FTE or full time employee position at LME. No one
was fired from Little Mountain, however, through retirement the faculty
was reduced leaving one class of over 30 kindergarteners for next year.
At the last meeting, Principal Rudy Tarver called this high student/teacher
ratio a serious problem and stated that in all his years he always had
extra students show up for kindergarten. The current draft of the budget
does not include the restoration of this position despite requests at
first reading.
District
administration stated at the last meeting that Little Mountain is not
the only school to drop an FTE - saying that the district takes a look
at student projections for each school and principals have the power
to shift teachers between grade levels. Superintendent Bennie Bennett
emphasized the impressive student/teacher ratios of Newberry County
in relation to other counties around SC. Bennett went on to say, “The
real question is whether or not [the board] wants to make student/teacher
ratio decisions based on the average for each school [and leave the
allocation of those positions to the principals] or base the decision
on each grade level at each school. We can go by grade level, but it
will definitely impact the budget.” He stated that hiring additional
teachers or transferring teachers after the start of the school year
is actually not uncommon and a possibility once actual student numbers
are known. Lee Attaway, who represents the Little Mountain area on school
board, reiterated that “for smaller schools like Little Mountain or
Reuben one teacher can make a big difference.” Chairman Don Saylor reminded
the board that the budget was a “work in progress” until final reading
on June 23.
Several
board members voiced their concerns regarding the budgeted use of fund
balance. School board member Lucy Ann Meetze referenced the economy
and changes in state funded when she said, “I think we need to guard
our fund balance just because the future is so unknown.” The budget
calls for approximately $300,000 roll over from last year’s budget and
over $200,000 from the fund balance. Board members Lee Attaway and Jody
Hamm both stated that they didn’t want to reduce the cost of living
raise for district and building administration, but this reduction may
be needed during this lean budget.
With the
new state legislation calling for the state sales tax to pay for owner-occupied,
school operational property taxes, the state is auditing each district
to make sure the estimated revenue is accurate. Funding could change
positively or negatively at the end of this audit, which could be completed
by final reading on June 23.
Crimestoppers
Number Changes
(added 06/09/08)
As
law enforcement agency work continue to work closely together to prevent
crime and capture those responsible, crimestoppers across South Carolina,
under the umbrella of The South Carolina Crimestoppers Council, have
created a statewide number that will allow tipsters to call in and automatically
be sent to the crimestoppers program in the area where they are placing
their call.
Crimestoppers
of the Midlands, made up of 46 law enforcement agencies in 8 counties
(local, state and federal), continues to work diligently to pay tipsters
for information leading to arrests - being the vehicle for anonymous
tipsters to call in, help to make arrests thus improving the quality
of life in the Midlands. The creation of the statewide number will provide
one number for tipsters to call while it will solidify the autonomies
of the crimestoppers programs in the respective areas of the state.
888-559-tips
will remain active and available for calls for months, but Crimestoppers
is asking all media (on any and all crime stories) to utilize this new
statewide number 888-CRIME-SC
which will allow the tipster to call in and automatically forward their
call (based on the county they are calling from) - the new website www.sccrimestoppers.com
will allow tipsters to go to the map of the state and click on where
the tip is for and it take the user to the appropriate crimestoppers
website and tip submission for.
Crimestoppers
of the Midlands is asking the public to be aware of the changeover and
to continue to be involved in solving crime and getting paid for the
anonymous information. Crimestoppers of the Midlands has solved 5234
cases, seized $11,742,585 in narcotics and paid out $152, 400 in cash
for tips over the last 25 years - Crimestoppers statewide has solved
over 21,000 cases. Crimestoppers of the Midlands will continue to work
on raising money to pay tipsters while diligently working to help law
enforcement take the bad guys off the streets.
Crimestoppers
has received the endorsement on this changeover from: the South Carolina
Sheriff's Association, South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association,
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Director Reggie Lloyd, Sheriff
Leon Lott, Sheriff James R. Metts, Sheriff Lee Foster, Sheriff Herman
Young, Sheriff Michael Hunt, Sheriff Larry Williams, Sheriff Steve McCaskill,
Chief Wendell Davis, Chief Tandy Carter, Chief Dennis Tyndall, Chief
Charlie McNair, Chief Gene Sealy, Chief Mark Fallaw, Chief Howard M.
Cook, Chief Brian Buck, Director Ernie Ellis, Chief John Ewing, Chief
Terrance Green, Chief Harold Rodgers, Chief Matt Johnson and Chief Randy
Garrett.
Sheriff
Announces Youth Summer Camps in Newberry County
(added 06/09/08)
Sheriff
Lee Foster has announced that the Newberry County Sheriff’ Office will
sponsor a series of summer youth camps throughout Newberry County communities
in an effort to combine games and fun with important life skills such
as safety and conflict management.
“The camps
are being offered at absolutely no charge and are intended to assist
area youth in areas such as safety and conflict management by using
challenging and competitive games that teach a hands on approach to
practical life skills,” said Foster.
The camps
will also strive to provide a positive atmosphere allowing Newberry
County youth to interact with officers, teachers, and community leaders
in a friendly, open environment.
The camps
will have participation from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, the
School District of Newberry County, Department of Natural Resources,
the U.S. Forestry Service, South Carolina Department of Probation, and
at least 5 community leaders from the respective communities including
churches, community organizations, and local elected officials.
The camp
is open to youth ages 6-15. The camps will take place from 10AM – 3PM.
The camp dates are as follows:
June 17
and 18, 2008 – Little Mountain - Little Mountain Reunion Park (Registration
Deadline is June 5)
June 30
and July 11, 2008 – Prosperity - Prosperity Civic Center (Registration
Deadline is June 19)
July 2
and July 3, 2008 – Chappells – Chappells Community Center (Registration
Deadline is June 19)
July 22
and July 23, 2008 – Whitmire – The Master’s Baptist Church (Registration
Deadline is July 9)
July 29
and July 30, 2008 – Newberry – Gallman Park (Registration Deadline is
July 15)
“We are
excited about the opportunity to begin working with the future generation
of leaders in Newberry County,” said Foster. “It is our sincere desire
that the life skills we teach this children today will help to enable
them to succeed for a lifetime.”
Registration
forms for the camps may be picked up at the Newberry County Sheriff’s
Office or by going to www.newberrycountysheriff.com
and downloading a copy of the application.
Parents
or guardians must sign a participation form for each child participating
in the camp. The forms should be returned in advance to the Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office Registration is limited to the first 30 youth
to register so you are encouraged to register early.
If you
have questions or need additional information, you may call the Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office at (803) 321-2211 and speak with Ron Abrams
or Sherri Scott.
Arthur
Gray Found in Richland County
(added 06/05/08)
Sheriff
Lee Foster says that the 78 year old man missing since Tuesday afternoon
was located this morning in Columbia by a Richland County Deputy Sheriff.
Foster
said that Arthur "June" Junior Gray was located this morning
around 8:30AM when the Richland County Sheriff's Office received a call
of a nude man walking on Paige Derrick Road in Richland County.
The Richland
County Deputy who responded to the scene immediately recognized Gray
as the missing person from Newberry County. The deputy described Mr.
Gray as being unclothed and disoriented. Mr. Gray was transported to
a Columbia area hospital for a medical exam and any needed treatment.
There were no obvious injuries to Mr. Gray.
Both agencies
say that it was the cooperation and continuous information exchange
between the two departments that allowed for the quick recognition and
action by the officer when he arrived at the unusual call.
Sheriff
Foster also thanked the media for their coverage of the missing man.
"The media is a tremendous asset to law enforcement and we appreciate
all of their efforts to help us accomplish our goals such as the safe
return of an elderly man to his family," said Foster.
In addition,
Sheriff Foster and Mr. Gray's family would like to express their thanks
to all of those who called with information about Mr. Gray or called
to offer their prayers, support, and assistance during this difficult
time.
Arthur
Junior Gray left his home located at 1025 Cockrell Drive in Newberry
County Tuesday afternoon around 5:00PM in his truck stating that he
would be right back.
Gray was
seen late Wednesday afternoon in the White Rock section when he stopped
at a home of a stranger seeking gas money. The homeowner later saw a
newscast and realized that he was the missing man from Newberry County.
Immediate
concern arose with family members say that it is unlike Gray to be gone
for such a long period of time, and say that he is in the beginning
stages of Alzheimer's. He needs medication for his Alzheimer's and has
a colostomy.
Gray left
his home in 1989 blue Nissan pickup with South Carolina License plates
705 JPN. The vehicle was also safely located by the Richland County
Sheriff's Office.
Gray is
a retired from operating his own lawn care service.
Confirmed
Sighting; Authorities Still Searching for Missing Elderly Man
(added 06/05/08)
UPDATE
(06/05/08, 6:44 AM) : The Newberry County Sheriff's Office says that
they have confirmed the early sighting of Mr. Gray. He was seen in the
White Rock area late this afternoon when he stopped at a home attempting
to get gas money. He appeared fine at the time. The search for him continues.
Earlier story (06/04/08):
The Newberry
County Sheriff’s Office is asking for your assistance in locating an
elderly man who has been missing since yesterday afternoon.
Authorities
say that Arthur Junior Gray left his home located at 1025 Cockrell Drive
in Newberry County yesterday afternoon around 5:00PM in his truck stating
that he would be right back. Gray has not been seen or heard from since
that time.
Family
members say that it is unlike Gray to be gone for such a long period
of time, and say that he is in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s.
He needs medication for his Alzheimer’s and has a colostomy.
Arthur
“June” Junior Gray (left) is 78 years old. He is a black male
who is 5 foot 7 inches tall and 170 pounds. He has grey hair and brown
eyes. He was last seen wearing overalls and blue and white striped shirt.
Gray was
last seen operating a 1989 blue Nissan pickup with South Carolina License
plates 705 JPN.
Gray is
retired from operating his own lawn care service.
Authorities
say that they have no information as to what routes or locations Gray
may be traveling because of his medical conditions.
If you
have any information as to the location of Arthur Gray or have seen
him, please contact the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office immediately
at (803) 321-2222.
Passing
of Chief Deputy Coroner Tommy Hedgepath Source: Whitaker Funeral Home (added
06/01/08)
Chief
Deputy Coroner Tommy L. Hedgepath, 67, died Friday at Newberry County
Memorial Hospital. He was the owner of H. L. Hedgepath and Son, and
had served as Deputy Coroner of Newberry County since 1991. He was currently
serving as Coroner. He was also a member of the Friendly Fire Department,
and had served for ten years in the SC National Guard.
Hedgepath was the only candidate running for County Coroner in November's
election.
Tune
in to WKDK AM 1240 on Monday morning for more information on this story.
Fifth
Graders Honored in National Transportation Week
Art Competition
(added 05/29/08)
The
S. C. Department of Transportation (SCDOT) named (86) eighty-six 5th
graders as winners in a statewide National Transportation Week Poster
Contest. Mason Scott, from Prosperity - Rikard Elementary,
received 3rd Place honors for Newberry County. Kristen Whiting,
from Prosperity - Rikard Elementary, received 2nd Place honors for Newberry
County. And Jay Salter, from Prosperity - Rikard Elementary,
received 1st Place honors for Newberry County. (See photos below
for each of these winners.)
SCDOT presented the awards at its 5th Annual National Transportation
Week Poster Contest Awards ceremony on Thursday, May 15, 2008 in Columbia.
The annual event is hosted by SCDOT to recognize the 5th graders for
their participation in the poster contest.
During
the ceremony, the students were honored as 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place winners
in their respective counties. In addition, 7 Highway District Winners
and the State Winner were announced. Two of the 86 5th graders, who
won first and second place in the National Transportation Week Art Competition
also, were recognized.
The theme
for this year’s poster contest was “One Nation On The Move.” More than
1,100 5th grade students from across the state participated in the contest.
Teachers were encouraged to not only ask students to express their ideas
in a picture, but to discuss the myriad of possibilities for transportation-related
careers and how transportation affects everyone’s life.
National
Transportation Week (May 11-17) provides an opportunity for the transportation
community to join together for greater awareness about the importance
of transportation and to focus on making youth aware of transportation-related
careers.
The SC
Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration – SC
Division Office, and the SC Alliance to Fix Our Roads (SCFOR) co-sponsored
the local competition.
SCDOT Deputy
Secretary for Finance and Administration Debra Rountree, FHWA SC Division
Administrator Bob Lee, SC Alliance to Fix Our Roads Executive Director
Debbie Bass, FHWA Office of Professional and Corporate Development Associate
Administrator Joe Toole spoke at the ceremony.
Click
on photos to see larger versions:
The
One Nation On The Move Poster Contest 3rd Place Winner in Newberry County
is Mason Scott (in front), a 5th grader at Prosperity Rikard Elementary.
Presenting the award are, from left: SCDOT Deputy Secretary for Finance
and Administration Debra Rountree, SC Division Administrator of the
Federal Highway Administration Bob Lee, FHWA Office of Professional
and Corporate Development Associate Administrator Joe Toole, SCDOT Deputy
Secretary for Engineering Tony Chapman, SC Alliance to Fix Our Roads
Executive Director Debbie Bass and SCDOT District 2 Engineering Administrator
Phillip Brooks. (Photo by Rob Thompson/SCDOT)
The
One Nation On The Move Poster Contest 2nd Place Winner in Newberry County
is Kristen Whiting (in front), a 5th grader at Prosperity Rikard Elementary
School. Presenting the award are, from left: SCDOT Deputy Secretary
for Finance and Administration Debra Rountree, SC Division Administrator
of the Federal Highway Administration Bob Lee, FHWA Office of Professional
and Corporate Development Associate Administrator Joe Toole, SCDOT Deputy
Secretary for Engineering Tony Chapman, SC Alliance to Fix Our Roads
Executive Director Debbie Bass and SCDOT District 2 Engineering Administrator
Phillip Brooks. (Photo by Rob Thompson/SCDOT)
The
One Nation On The Move Poster Contest 1st Place Winner in Newberry County
is Jay Salter (in front), a 5th grader at Prosperity Rikard Elementary
School. Presenting the award are, from left: SCDOT Deputy Secretary
for Finance and Administration Debra Rountree, SC Division Administrator
of the Federal Highway Administration Bob Lee, FHWA Office of Professional
and Corporate Development Associate Administrator Joe Toole, SCDOT Deputy
Secretary for Engineering Tony Chapman, SC Alliance to Fix Our Roads
Executive Director Debbie Bass and SCDOT District 2 Engineering Administrator
Phillip Brooks. (Photo by Rob Thompson/SCDOT)
County Council Meeting on May 21
(added 05/22/08)
Newberry
County Council met Wednesday night (May 21) and approved second reading
of the 08/09 budget. The $22.4 million general fund budget calls for
an additional 3.3 mill increase in property taxes.
In a split
vote, council approved the expansion of EMS coverage at night from 2
manned ambulances to 3 thus increasing response time. Dr. Alan Paysinger
brought a petition in favor of this move from Newberry County Medical
Society. He reiterated that currently both ambulances are out on call
and not available for an emergency on average of two h