Noxubee man gets life sentence for rape, murder 2/10/2012 10:19:00 PM MACON -- The girls lived only three miles apart. They were only three years old. Both were snatched from their homes in the middle of the night, raped and strangled.
Miss. high court hears arguments over pardons 2/9/2012 12:58:00 PM Attorneys for a group of former inmates told the Mississippi Supreme Court on Thursday that former Gov. Haley Barbour's pardons of them are valid.
Facebook Watch Group fights crime 2/9/2012 12:40:00 PM It's not about vigilante justice or fear but taking back the community, one person at a time.
Facebook Watch Group fights crime 2/9/2012 12:40:00 PM It's not about vigilante justice or fear but taking back the community, one person at a time.
City to Harry Sanders: We want an apology 2/8/2012 11:44:00 AM Members of the Columbus City Council retaliated Tuesday night against recent remarks made by a county supervisor. During the general comments section of the meeting, Ward 6 Councilman Kabir Karriem called for Lowndes County Board of Supervisors President Harry Sanders to publicly apologize for comments made during a speech at a local civic club.
Police push for internal promotions 2/8/2012 11:39:00 AM An ongoing debate within the Columbus Police Department continued Tuesday during the meeting of the mayor and City Council. Police Chief Selvain McQueen appeared before the board seeking approval for updated policies regarding lateral hiring and departmental promotions.
Oktibbeha sheriff works to build networks in community 2/3/2012 12:20:00 PM County officials are urging residents to take ownership of their communities. On March 19, the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office and Board of Supervisors will host a neighborhood-watch meeting in the courtroom of the county courthouse.
McLemore: Identity theft on the rise 2/3/2012 12:11:00 PM Lt. Wayne McLemore has been on the Columbus police force for 24 years.
Over the years, he has worked in drug- and gang-resistance education, criminal investigations, the SWAT team and public relations.
Jack White: A letter to city judges 2/1/2012 12:35:00 PM Dear Judge Marc Amos and Judge Nicole Clinkscales:
More than 60 households in The Northside Neighborhood Watch have realized that citizens must accept responsibility for the quality of life in Columbus.
Robert A. White: War on drugs a failure 2/1/2012 12:34:00 PM The city is experiencing a increase in crime, and burglary is just one aspect. I attended the Jan. 17 city council meeting. Police Chief McQueen is concerned about the level to which crime in the city has risen.
Hood: Pardoned killer found in Wyoming 1/31/2012 2:15:00 PM JACKSON -- A convicted killer pardoned by former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour was in Wyoming with his fiancee and initially drove off when he was located Sunday by investigators seeking to serve him with a court summons, authorities said Monday.
Selby Parker: Response to column 1/31/2012 11:12:00 AM "Absent fathers: King's Dream?" by Scott Colom was featured in the Clarion-Ledger on Sunday, Jan. 29 and twice referenced Mississippi in regards to absentee fathers.
Oktibbeha County Circuit Court 1/28/2012 10:22:00 PM STARKVILLE -- The defense team for the Weir man accused of stabbing two doughnut shop employees Thursday filed a motion to determine whether he is mentally fit to stand trial.
Prison dilemma: surging numbers of older inmates 1/27/2012 11:48:00 AM NEW YORK -- In corrections systems nationwide, officials are grappling with decisions about geriatric units, hospices and medical parole as elderly inmates -- with their high rates of illness and infirmity -- make up an ever increasing share of the prison population.
AG's office offers money to find pardoned trusty 1/27/2012 11:24:00 AM JACKSON -- Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said Thursday that his office is willing to pay confidential informants for information that helps him track down a convicted killer pardoned by former Gov. Haley Barbour.
No files on pardoned Mississippi killers 1/26/2012 9:53:00 PM JACKSON -- Pardon files are missing or don't exist for four convicted killers and another man who worked as trusties at the Governor's Mansion and were pardoned by former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour during his final days in office.
Cameron Triplett: One root cause of crime 1/26/2012 11:01:00 AM Just as there is no one cause for the crime in Columbus, or anywhere else, there is no one solution, either. The economy is surely one, but it is not beyond the control of "the man on the street."
Convicted Marine apologizes to Iraqi civilians 1/25/2012 12:57:00 PM CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- When Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich finally spoke in court, he did not address the judge but instead directed his words at the Iraqi family members who survived his squad's attacks in 2005 that left 24 unarmed civilians dead.
Bryant unveils policy details in State of State 1/25/2012 12:34:00 PM JACKSON -- Republican Gov. Phil Bryant used his first State of the State address Tuesday evening to unveil detailed policy proposals, from education to health care to energy, saying he wants to create a "Mississippi Works Agenda."
Deputies make arrests in home burglaries 1/25/2012 11:54:00 AM The Lowndes County Sheriff's Office arrested three people Monday -- including two juveniles -- in connection with two unrelated home burglaries. Jeremy Marc Adams, 29, of 8061 Highway 12 E. No. 9, was charged Monday afternoon in connection with a home burglary on Woodlawn Drive.
Our View: False alarms a costly distraction for police 1/25/2012 11:34:00 AM Columbus police responded to 229 alarm calls last month, 77 of which were residential. Most of those were false alarms. But false or not, those calls mean money and manpower.
Marine denies firing at Iraqi women and children 1/24/2012 3:44:00 PM CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- A Marine facing sentencing over one of the worst attacks on civilians by U.S. troops during the Iraq War told a judge Tuesday in a surprise development that he never fired his weapon at any women or children.CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (AP) -- A Marine facing sentencing over one of the worst attacks on civilians by U.S. troops during the Iraq War told a judge Tuesday in a surprise development that he never fired his weapon at any women or children.
Proposals could limit governor's pardon power 1/24/2012 3:20:00 PM JACKSON -- Mississippi lawmakers might ask voters to approve a constitutional amendment limiting the governor's power to pardon convicted criminals, the chairman of the Senate Constitution Committee said Monday.
Adele Elliott: Superman's stained cape 1/24/2012 12:51:00 PM Once upon a time we were the "good guys." That is what we were taught, and that is what we believed. This country stood for "truth, justice and the American way." I suppose we saw ourselves as Superman, standing on a mountain top, hands on hips, chest inflated, scanning the horizon for wrongs to right.
Murder, sex crime trials set for circuit court 1/24/2012 12:25:00 PM The man accused of stabbing two doughnut-shop employees in May is scheduled for trial during the January term of Oktibbeha County Circuit Court. George Johnson, 21, of Weir, is accused of entering Shipley Do-Nuts on May 31 and cutting the throat of a female employee and stabbing a male employee multiple times.
Jack H. White: Appreciates response of public officials 1/24/2012 11:57:00 AM The Northside Neighborhood Watch has been successful in securing positive and productive resolutions of problems and concerns through Councilman Kabir Karriem, the City Council, Mayor Smith, and numerous officials and department heads.
Marion County students could get cash 1/23/2012 11:28:00 AM COLUMBIA -- In Marion County, they're giving students cash for going to school.
A local business group has decided to donate $200 to each of the county's four high schools so officials can pay the sum to a student with perfect attendance.
Previous offender arrested on charge of suspicion of burglary 1/22/2012 2:10:00 AM A 19-year-old man is being held in connection to a Friday-morning burglary.
Davanta Hayden was arrested Friday morning on Mill Street after police received a stolen-property tip, Cpl. Donnie Elkin said. Charges are still pending and could be issued on Monday, Elkin said.
Columbus city officials: Uptick in crime is a reality 1/22/2012 1:59:00 AM Mayor Robert Smith didn't mince words: Columbus has a crime problem, and he and the City Council are determined to do whatever it takes to eradicate it.
Starkville man wanted in purse snatching incident 1/21/2012 12:07:00 AM STARKVILLE -- Oktibbeha County sheriff's deputies are looking for a man in connection with the assault and robbery of a woman at a restaurant Thursday.
Our View: Civil Service should change guidelines 1/20/2012 3:14:00 PM The Columbus Police Department has its hands full trying to police a city of near 24,000 with 68 officers. When you also consider that most of the force has five years of experience or less and nine veteran supervising officers who can retire at any moment, the situation is more critical.
Planner, council map strategy for next 12 months 1/20/2012 3:10:00 PM The city of Columbus is discussing ways it can improve its growth and aesthetics during the next year. At a city work session Wednesday morning, City Planner Christina Berry shared with Mayor Robert Smith and city council her vision for 2012.
5-year-old girl, grandmother die in Lowndes county firee 1/18/2012 5:17:00 PM A grandmother and her 5-year-old granddaughter died in a mobile home fire Wednesday afternoon in the Plum Grove community, near the Lowndes County and Noxubee County line.
Crime dominates council discussion 1/18/2012 1:49:00 PM Columbus Mayor Robert Smith assured residents Tuesday he is doing all he can to curtail crime in The Friendly City. Smith read a letter addressed to all Columbus residents, and the council spoke to Columbus Police Chief Selvain McQueen about ways to prevent crime.
Police chiefs meet at WH to discuss terror fight 1/18/2012 1:31:00 PM WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration is providing senior state and local police officials with its analysis of homegrown terrorism incidents, including common signs law enforcement can use to identify violent extremists.
Hood: Judge should invalidate some Barbour pardons 1/18/2012 1:21:00 PM JACKSON -- Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said Tuesday he'll ask a state judge next week to revoke several pardons Haley Barbour issued in his final days as governor, including those for five convicts who worked as trusties at the Governor's Mansion.
Hood: Some pardoned by Barbour gave proper notice 1/18/2012 1:19:00 PM JACKSON -- Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood says he won't challenge the pardons of 13 people who met a state constitutional requirement to publish a notice that they were seeking a pardon. The state constitution says the notice must be published for at least 30 days in a newspaper in or a near the county where the crime occurred.
Jackson businessman Stuart M. Irby found dead 1/18/2012 1:08:00 PM JACKSON -- Authorities said a prominent Jackson businessman took his own life Tuesday, days after his wife was released from prison by then-Gov. Haley Barbour.
Mayor Robert E. Smith Sr.: City is taking steps to combat crime 1/18/2012 10:33:00 AM I, as Mayor, and the City Council are very concerned about the burglaries, home invasions, larceny, theft, illegal use of drugs and homicides that have occurred in the past four to five months.
Gun found after 36 years; owner now missing 1/17/2012 3:32:00 PM TUPELO -- A gun stolen from Tupelo in 1975 has turned up in a Gautier pawn shop after spending nearly four decades on the national missing items list.
Lawmakers propose limits on pardons by govs 1/17/2012 3:28:00 PM JACKSON -- Some Mississippi lawmakers want to limit the governor's pardon powers, a discussion prompted by Republican Haley Barbour's actions as he left office last Tuesday.
'The whole thing is outrageous' 1/14/2012 10:16:00 PM Prosecutor, victim's grandmother disagree with medical release of murderer
Wright: Increased communication will help combat burglaries 1/14/2012 10:12:00 PM A recent law enforcement meeting has local agencies on their toes and ready to combat crime by working together.
Lowndes County, Columbus and other nearby law enforcement agencies met Thursday afternoon regarding the recent outbreak of burglaries.
Barbour 'very comfortable' with pardons 1/13/2012 11:22:00 PM RIDGELAND -- Former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour said Friday he's "very comfortable" with his final-days decisions to grant pardons or other clemency to more than 200 people, including convicted killers -- decisions that outraged victims' families and dismayed even some of his most devoted supporters. Coming Sunday: Lowndes County woman speaks out about Barbour's pardon of man convicted of killing her grandson
Lawyer: Sisters will push new governor for pardon 1/13/2012 11:02:00 AM JACKSON-- Two sisters released from a Mississippi prison last year on condition that one donate a kidney to the other were saddened and disappointed they weren't among dozens receiving full pardons from the governor, one of the women said Thursday.
Local convicts among Barbour pardons 1/13/2012 10:55:00 AM A man serving a life sentence for his murder conviction in Lowndes County Circuit Court is among those who would have been given a reprieve when former Gov. Haley Barbour granted more than 200 pardons.
Local convicts among Barbour pardons 1/13/2012 10:55:00 AM A man serving a life sentence for his murder conviction in Lowndes County Circuit Court is among those who would have been given a reprieve when former Gov. Haley Barbour granted more than 200 pardons.
Local convicts among Barbour pardons 1/13/2012 10:55:00 AM A man serving a life sentence for his murder conviction in Lowndes County Circuit Court is among those who would have been given a reprieve when former Gov. Haley Barbour granted more than 200 pardons.
West Point police increase patrol after shooting deaths, burglaries 1/12/2012 12:06:00 PM WEST POINT -- The West Point Police Department is putting more officers in the streets after burglaries and two deaths.
Tuesday, the West Point Board of Selectmen hired three new police officers.
Doss officially charged with murder 1/11/2012 10:26:00 AM STARKVILLE -- A Starkville man has been charged with murder in connection with the Monday shooting death of his uncle. Kewon Doss, 18, was officially charged Tuesday.
Outgoing Mississippi Gov. Barbour pardons four killers 1/10/2012 12:19:00 PM JACKSON -- Outgoing Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour has pardoned at least four convicted killers who worked as inmate trusties at the Governor's Mansion, including a man who was denied parole less than two weeks ago.
Edmonds' lawsuit to be heard by 5th Circuit 1/4/2012 12:48:00 PM JACKSON -- A federal three-judge appeals panel has scheduled a hearing in New Orleans on Friday on efforts by Tyler Edmonds to revive his wrongful imprisonment lawsuit.
Lowndes plagued by burglaries 1/4/2012 10:55:00 AM Lowndes County sheriff's deputies are investigating a rash of burglaries that have occurred in the past month. And the outbreak has residents thinking of ways to protect themselves.
Lowndes sheriff reflects on service 1/3/2012 12:12:00 PM The newly retired Lowndes County sheriff is looking forward to catching fish.
But he leaves office bothered by the ones he didn't catch -- three cases for which he and the families have no closure.
Scruggs gets hearing in appeal of conviction 12/28/2011 12:33:00 PM JACKSON -- Imprisoned former attorney Richard "Dickie" Scruggs has earned a March 26 hearing in his effort to overturn his 2009 conviction in a corruption case involving former Hinds County Circuit Judge Bobby DeLaughter.
Scott Colom: Advice for Chief McQueen 12/28/2011 10:30:00 AM After being robbed last week, I went through the five stages of grief. First, I was too shocked to believe it. As I stared at the spot where my TV usually hung and the place where my X-Box 360 usually rested, I kept expecting the items to reappear.
Starkville police investigate burglaries 12/28/2011 10:23:00 AM STARKVILLE -- Starkville police are searching for suspects in three vending-machine burglaries on Industrial Park Road. Between Dec. 23-26, change was stolen from vending machines at MMC Materials, MFJ Enterprises and AT&T's work center. Two vending machines were burglarized and MMC and MFJ.
Mississippi death row inmate loses appeal 12/22/2011 5:03:00 PM JACKSON -- The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal from Roger Lee Gillett, who was sentenced to death for his role in the 2004 slaying of a Hattiesburg couple.
1996 murder case ends in manslaughter plea 12/22/2011 12:35:00 PM Edward Lamon Blunt was outside WACR in his car waiting for a friend who was a disc jockey at the radio station on 14th Avenue North in Columbus. A man approached his vehicle claiming to be God.
Incoming Oktibbeha sheriff plans regional approach to fighting drugs 12/22/2011 12:29:00 PM Steve Gladney is still getting used to his new celebrity status. The incoming Oktibbeha County sheriff made headlines when he defeated 36-year Sheriff Dolph Bryan in the Democratic primary and later won the general election by a landslide.
Mississippi State professor pens first biography of civil rights icon Medgar Evers 12/17/2011 10:17:00 PM STARKVILLE -- A mother's stories to her young son never went away. The son remembered them and wrote them down for everyone to remember. Michael V. Williams, in one way or another, has always heard or read about civil rights icon Medgar Evers.
Pistol-packin' mommas hone shooting skills in safety class 12/17/2011 10:12:00 PM Shots rang out early Saturday morning in Columbus' east end, but crime wasn't afoot.
The frosty air crackled with ammunition rounds as city women hoping to improve their gun savvy took aim at targets at the police department's shooting range.
OCSO arrests five in connection with home invasion 12/17/2011 2:00:00 AM STARKVILLE -- Three men and two juveniles were arrested and charged with four counts of armed robbery following a Dec. 4 home invasion.
Lowndes officers find pot while looking for guns 12/17/2011 12:10:00 AM Lowndes County investigators and Metro Narcotics Unit personnel arrested a woman Thursday afternoon after about $25,000 worth of marijuana was found inside her apartment. Myisha Meady, 25, of 247 William Roberts Road, Apt. 580, in Columbus, was arrested at her apartment complex.
Saturday Profile: Nativity animals have their say 12/17/2011 12:04:00 AM "And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger". Luke 2:15-16, King James Version.
Police arrest second man in video burglary 12/15/2011 11:00:00 AM The second suspect in the burglary caught on video turned himself in Tuesday night, police said.
Columbus police officer Terrie Songer said Tavarous Mason, 28, of 416 John Colbert Road in Macon, turned himself in to Noxubee County authorities.
Many indifferent as Noriega returns to Panama cell 12/12/2011 9:04:00 AM PANAMA CITY, Panama -- Manuel Noriega is back in his Panamanian homeland after nearly 22 years, sitting in a prison cell in a country he ruled as a personal fiefdom until U.S. troops invaded and hauled him off to a Florida jail.
EMCC GED graduate: My mother was right 12/11/2011 1:50:00 AM MAYHEW -- A former "dummy" wised up this year.
Lloyd Watts, 27, of Starkville was one of 23 students to receive GED diplomas Dec. 6 at East Mississippi Community College's Golden Triangle campus, and one of three recipients to address the crowd of family and friends.
Starkville man faces Internet sex charge 12/8/2011 1:33:00 PM A Starkville man was arrested Saturday and charged with sexual battery after using the Internet to lure a minor into sex. Oktibbeha County sheriff's deputies charged Jason R. Carson, 20, of 414 Hancock Circle, with one count of sexual battery, one count of dissemination of sexually oriented materials to a minor, and one count of computer luring of a minor for sexual purposes after the minor's family members made a complaint to the OCSO.
Clinton orders review of visa program 12/6/2011 8:48:00 AM JACKSON -- Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has ordered an "extensive and thorough review" of a foreign exchange program that has been used by U.S. businesses as a source of cheap labor and exploited by criminals to import women to work in the sex industry.
In the latest debacle for the J-1 Summer Work Travel visa, a federal indictment unsealed last week accuses the mafia of using the cultural exchange program to bring Eastern European women to work in New York strip clubs.
'Tis the season ... for shoplifting 11/29/2011 12:45:00 PM The Christmas season is in full swing, and area police expect property crime to increase. "Crime goes up as a result of human nature," Interim Columbus Police Chief Selvain McQueen said. Downtown store owners also recognize the possibility of shoplifting to spike during the Christmas shopping season.
'Tis the season ... for shoplifting 11/29/2011 12:45:00 PM The Christmas season is in full swing, and area police expect property crime to increase. "Crime goes up as a result of human nature," Interim Columbus Police Chief Selvain McQueen said. Downtown store owners also recognize the possibility of shoplifting to spike during the Christmas shopping season.
Adele Elliott: Occupation 11/26/2011 10:21:00 PM We have heard much about the "Occupy" movement. It began with "Occupy Wall Street" and spread across the country. (There is even a demonstration in Canada.) I am not going to waste my valuable soapbox space to list them all. However, this is primarily an American phenomenon.
Police chief search: Pros and cons of final candidates 11/23/2011 10:47:00 AM The Columbus City Council should explore police chief candidates' management experience and ability to relate to the community when personal interviews are conducted next month. That's the advice offered by a subcommittee charged with reviewing the candidates.
Lowndes Arrest Report 11-17-11 11/17/2011 11:50:00 AM The Lowndes County Sheriff's Office reports the following arrests:
Fifth suspect sought in home break-in 11/17/2011 11:45:00 AM CEDAR BLUFF -- One suspect remains at large, and four have been arrested in connection with a home burglary in the Clay County community of Cedar Bluff, Chief Deputy Eddie Scott reported in a press release.
Citizen CSI: Forensic director pitches volunteer crime investigation unit 11/17/2011 10:59:00 AM A plan proposed by the head of the Columbus Crime Lab would bring a whole new meaning to community policing. Trained community volunteers would respond to property-crime scenes and help investigators by collecting evidence.
Pizza thieves arrested 11/16/2011 12:43:00 PM Pizza delivery employees in Starkville can breathe easier. The Starkville Police Department arrested two men Saturday for their roles in an attempted armed robbery of a Domino's Pizza driver on Sade Ware Street and the armed robbery of Pizza Hut deliverer in Chandler Park on Reed Road on Oct. 29.
Adele Elliott: While I slept 11/11/2011 10:47:00 AM It's been a pretty tough week at the Elliott-Hannon household. We worked really hard creating a pre-Halloween event. Maybe it was just too hard for me, because, although our tour was a huge success, I spent the rest of the week in bed with all sorts of ailments.
Armed robbery suspect makes off with cash, pizza 11/3/2011 10:10:00 AM STARKVILLE -- The Starkville Police Department is searching for a man who robbed a pizza delivery employee at gunpoint Saturday at Chandler Park Apartment Complex.
The search for a chief: Selvain McQueen 10/27/2011 12:41:00 PM Selvain McQueen has received a lot of criticism as interim Columbus police chief, but he said he does get phone calls of praise and gratitude.
The search for a chief: Sam Lathrop 10/26/2011 11:31:00 AM After more than three decades of law enforcement experience under his belt, Sam Lathrop retired from the Beloit Police Department after disclosing information to the Beloit city manager regarding an intradepartmental relationship.
Lowndes candidates speak at CLOPAC forum 10/26/2011 11:22:00 AM Less than two weeks remain until the Nov. 8 general election, and local candidates took to the microphones Tuesday night, making last-minute pushes to voters during the Columbus-Lowndes Political Action Committee's final forum at the Columbus Municipal Complex.
Four sex crime cases continued 10/25/2011 12:12:00 PM Four sex crime cases last week were continued in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court.
Teens lead police on high speed chase in stolen vehicle 10/25/2011 10:57:00 AM Columbus police arrested and charged three juveniles for auto theft and burglary of a home after the juveniles led police on a high-speed highway chase Monday evening.
The search for a chief: Nathaniel Clark 10/25/2011 10:57:00 AM Nathaniel Clark has been through the interview process before.
He was an applicant and one of the four finalists for the Columbus police chief position in 2007 when the council voted to appoint Joseph St. John.
Christie's 'Mousetrap' mystery begins Thursday at MUW 10/22/2011 11:55:00 PM Murder and mystery take centerstage Oct. 27-29 when the Department of Music and Theatre at Mississippi University for Women presents Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" in Cromwell Theatre.
The search for a chief: Curtis Brame 10/22/2011 11:22:00 PM Curtis Brame, Nathaniel Clark, Sam Lathrop, Selvain McQueen and Robert Spinks.
Those are the five names circulating throughout the city of Columbus, the five recommendations in the heavily-discussed Columbus police chief search.
Top five recommendations for police chief revealed at council meeting 10/18/2011 7:49:00 PM The five applicants that the 21-person committee recommended as top candidates for the permanent police chief position were revealed Tuesday night during the Columbus City Council meeting.
Life-at-fertilization push in Miss. 10/17/2011 1:45:00 PM A national effort to put abortion bans into state constitutions is looking for its first victory next month in Mississippi, where voters are being asked to approve an amendment declaring that life begins when a human egg is fertilized.
Birney Imes: The search for a winner 10/15/2011 10:03:00 PM Reading resumes is a bit like reading tea leaves, I would think. The art of telling fortunes by studying the residue in the bottoms of wine glasses and tea and coffee cups is called tasseography. How it's done, I have no idea. Over the years, though, I've read a lot of resumes.
Last week I was among 21 Columbians looking at the resumes of 25 people who want to be Columbus' next police chief.
Candidates tout experience, new ideas at voter forum 10/14/2011 1:18:00 PM Local candidates had their chance to sway voters to their side before the Nov. 8 election arrives.
Candidates in nearly every local race attended the Columbus-Lowndes League of Voters political forum Thursday at the Columbus Municipal Complex, while interested residents listened for the one thing that could sway them to one side or the other.
Music, fireworks tonight kick off Caledonia Day festivities 10/14/2011 1:09:00 PM The Town of Caledonia was abuzz this morning as residents and business owners finished last-minute preparations for the 8th annual Caledonia Day festival, which kicks off tonight at 6 p.m. at Ola J. Pickett Park and continues Saturday with a full roster of events.
Scott Colom: Character best deterrent to crime 10/12/2011 12:31:00 PM Most local media outlets carried the story of the strong-arm house robbery several weeks ago, but for me it was very personal. While not an immediate member of my family, the victim has worked with my father's law firm for years and is loved by my family as if she were a member.
West Point man sought for shooting cousin 10/12/2011 12:26:00 PM WEST POINT -- The West Point Police Department is looking for a 20-year-old black male they say shot his cousin last week.
Two in custody after Creekstone robbery 10/12/2011 12:19:00 PM Two Aberdeen men were arrested in Monroe County after fleeing north on Highway 45 from the scene of an armed robbery at Creekstone Chevron in Columbus Tuesday afternoon.
Selvain McQueen: Be Part of the Solution 10/11/2011 5:28:00 PM Citizens, churches, neighborhood leaders, government officials, philanthropists, and educators must all pitch in with law enforcement to improve quality of life issues within the City of Columbus.
Our View: A dangerous breakdown in communication 10/11/2011 5:27:00 PM Local law enforcement seems to be at a loss on how to handle the recent surge in crime. Or at least how to communicate effectively enough to make us feel safe in our own backyard. The several shooting deaths in the past weeks already had us on edge.
Local businesses report increase in sale of guns and alarm systems 10/8/2011 11:55:00 PM A not-so-friendly side of "The Friendly City" has reared its ugly head recently, and residents are taking precautions to preserve their safety. On the heels of the recent violent crimes in Columbus, local security and alarm system businesses and pawn shops report an increase in calls about personal protection.
Local businesses report increase in sale of guns and alarm systems 10/8/2011 11:55:00 PM A not-so-friendly side of "The Friendly City" has reared its ugly head recently, and residents are taking precautions to preserve their safety. On the heels of the recent violent crimes in Columbus, local security and alarm system businesses and pawn shops report an increase in calls about personal protection.
Local businesses report increase in sale of guns and alarm systems 10/8/2011 11:55:00 PM A not-so-friendly side of "The Friendly City" has reared its ugly head recently, and residents are taking precautions to preserve their safety. On the heels of the recent violent crimes in Columbus, local security and alarm system businesses and pawn shops report an increase in calls about personal protection.
Adele Elliott: The care and feeding of fear 10/8/2011 11:00:00 PM These days everything we buy comes with instructions and detailed warnings. Aerosol cans have labels that warn us to keep them away from open flames. Shampoos clearly state that the contents are for external use only.
District attorney candidates plead their case 10/7/2011 1:12:00 PM Forrest Allgood's challenger in the November election, Steve Wallace, criticized the operation of the district attorney's office, during a Thursday talk at a Columbus Exchange Club meeting.
Traffic stop leads to drug, assault charges 10/6/2011 2:16:00 PM An Oktibbeha County man fought with Oktibbeha County sheriff's deputies and was jailed on nine charges after a traffic stop for a busted tail light on Sept. 28.
Search committee for new chief to meet Oct. 12 10/1/2011 10:26:00 PM The 21-person committee tasked with selecting five candidates for serious consideration for the Columbus police chief position will meet Oct. 12 at 10 a.m. in the Columbus Police Department Command Center.
Seventh Avenue Festival shines light on historic neighborhood 9/30/2011 12:34:00 PM Time moves slowly on Seventh Avenue North. Sometimes it seems to creep as insidiously as kudzu along a cinderblock wall. Other times, it is softer, mellower, evoking days of porch sittin', slow sippin' and smoke-drenched blues.
Our View: A board at odds 9/29/2011 1:19:00 PM The Columbus-Lowndes tourism bureau continues to take one step forward and two steps back.
After months of debate, Lowndes County Board of Supervisors President Harry Sanders and Columbus Mayor Robert Smith finally came to a decision about the ninth Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau member.
Experts recreate homicide scene in Sharp trial 9/29/2011 11:10:00 AM Testimony in Leslie Sharp's murder trial Wednesday provided forensic details of the fatal injuries of Christopher Cole, the man Sharp says she shot in self-defense.
Scott Colom: The police balancing act 9/28/2011 1:02:00 PM The recent outcry over the execution of Troy Davis reminded me of the difficult balancing act for police. On the one hand, with every homicide the police are under tremendous pressure to solve the crime quickly.
Our View: A sense of unease 9/28/2011 12:49:00 PM Three shooting deaths in a week. It's enough to make sure you lock your doors and stay inside at night. What's more frightening is not knowing if those killings are random acts of violence or targeted hits.
CPD to meet with Ward 6 residents 9/28/2011 12:23:00 PM Ward 6 is up next. Residents in the ward will get their chance to speak to Columbus police officers Thursday about area crime and ways to help the community.
Bomb threat raises jurisdiction questions at Columbus Middle School 9/25/2011 12:55:00 AM Columbus Middle School is located within the Columbus Municipal School District but outside Columbus city limits, and the Columbus Police Department does not have jurisdiction at the school.
Emergency response personnel quelled the Sept. 16 bomb and sniper threat at the school without any injuries. However, due to a signed agreement that the Mississippi Attorney General did not approve, there were questions regarding who was supposed to be the lead agency during the event.
Oktibbeha man arrested for robbery 9/23/2011 2:43:00 PM STARKVILLE -- An Oktibbeha County man is charged with robbery after stealing cash from a man who gave him a ride from a convenience store, police said.
Columbus officers encourage community policing 9/23/2011 2:29:00 PM Columbus police are asking residents for one thing: If you see something, say something. A handful of residents attended the Ward 3 community meeting Thursday night at First Christian Church in East Columbus and discussed concerns within their neighborhoods.
Agents bust two prescription drug rings 9/23/2011 2:27:00 PM Narcotics agents with the Columbus-Lowndes Metro Narcotics Unit busted two prescription drug rings Thursday, concluding months of undercover investigation and culminating in arrests and/or charges against 21 people.
Agents bust two prescription drug rings 9/23/2011 2:27:00 PM Narcotics agents with the Columbus-Lowndes Metro Narcotics Unit busted two prescription drug rings Thursday, concluding months of undercover investigation and culminating in arrests and/or charges against 21 people.
Columbus Police make arrests in felony shoplifting case 9/22/2011 10:52:00 AM Columbus police arrested three people Wednesday afternoon for two separate crimes, one a felony shoplifting charge and the other an auto burglary charge.
Jay D'Abramo: Starkville needs new police station 9/21/2011 12:49:00 PM It's time for us to move forward and build a police station. For 10 years now we've battled each other as a community over questions like "where should it be?" and "how much should it cost?" These are fair questions to ask but not at the expense of being able to meet a need that is too obvious to ignore.
Our View: Oktibbeha action on animal control long overdue 9/20/2011 1:04:00 PM There's a better way to handle vicious dogs than to wait for one to attack and injure livestock, or worse, a child. The Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors is on the right track. After recent dog attacks, supervisors are drafting an animal-control ordinance that would include a leash law. The idea is to crack down on owners who apparently don't care enough about their own dogs, as well as their neighbors' well being, to properly supervise their dogs.
No suspects in weekend homicides 9/20/2011 12:35:00 PM A Columbus man was found dead at the 300 block of Eighth Street North early Sunday morning after witnesses reported hearing gunshots.
Body found at Luxapalila Creek Recreation Area 9/17/2011 6:59:00 PM Columbus Police spent Saturday morning scouring the banks of Luxapalila Creek, gathering evidence on the apparent homicide of a 34-year-old Columbus man.
Second school on alert after bomb threat 9/15/2011 5:57:00 PM For the second day in a row, local law enforcement and bomb-sniffing canine units were dispatched to a local school after a bomb threat. Shortly before 8 a.m., Columbus Middle School was placed on alert.
Police plan second crime forum with local pastors 9/13/2011 12:56:00 PM Interim Chief Selvain McQueen and the Columbus Police Department scheduled a second crime forum for Thursday at 9 a.m. at the Municipal Court Complex.
Two sought for shooting at moving vehicles 9/10/2011 1:41:00 AM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office is looking for two men allegedly involved in shooting at moving vehicles Thursday night.
Columbus starts crime alert system for local businesses 9/9/2011 1:27:00 PM Thanks to the Columbus Police Department, local businesses now can be a step ahead of area crime. The CPD released a statement Wednesday announcing the beginning of the Columbus Business Alert initiative, an effort to inform local businesses of crime information as it is happening.
Columbus starts crime alert system for local businesses 9/9/2011 1:27:00 PM Thanks to the Columbus Police Department, local businesses now can be a step ahead of area crime. The CPD released a statement Wednesday announcing the beginning of the Columbus Business Alert initiative, an effort to inform local businesses of crime information as it is happening.
Man found guilty of child exploitation, will serve at least 10 years 9/7/2011 1:25:00 PM A jury found a Columbus man guilty of one of three charges of sex crimes, in Lowndes County Circuit Court last week. Tommie Harris, 31, will serve at least 10 years at the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
West Point man charged in stabbing death 9/6/2011 11:47:00 AM CLAY COUNTY -- A West Point man is charged with murder after stabbing a man at a White Station nightclub late Sunday night, according to the sheriff's department.
Mary Lee Beal: The need for a new police station 8/27/2011 10:35:00 PM As most people are aware, the citizens of this community on Sept. 27 are being provided an opportunity to support an issue that is absolutely vital to the continued growth of Starkville.
Lowndes Circuit Court 8-25-11 8/25/2011 12:52:00 PM Sixteenth Circuit Court judges have processed several cases during the current session of court in Lowndes County. The session began on last Monday and continues through Sept. 2.
Our View: A community's problem 8/17/2011 12:57:00 PM You've heard that well-worn adage, "It takes a village to raise a child." It also takes a village to police the community. A recent string of shootings in the city of Columbus has us wondering what's wrong with the village in The Friendly City.
Man recovering after brick attack 8/17/2011 12:47:00 PM A man is in the Tupelo hospital after being hit in the head with a brick Tuesday night.
McQueen solicits churches' help in crime prevention 8/17/2011 12:36:00 PM Can the church bridge the gap between lawbreakers and law enforcement? "We'll find out," Interim Columbus Police Chief Selvain McQueen said, Tuesday afternoon.
Columbus police focus on community rapport 8/16/2011 12:22:00 PM If Monday had been a typical work day, Columbus Police Officer Terrie Songer would have been juggling her cellphone and office phone, firing off emails and fielding questions from the media about a Sunday afternoon shooting on Fifth Street South.
Internet war of words breaks out in Miss. killing 8/13/2011 7:12:00 PM JACKSON -- Authorities call it a hate crime by two white teens against a middle-aged black man, "murder by physically assaulting and purposefully using a 1998 Ford F-250 to run over James Craig Anderson."
Profile: Tim Brinkley to split time as pastor and West Point police chief 8/13/2011 12:15:00 AM WEST POINT -- For Tim Brinkley, accepting the job as West Point's police chief made sense on many levels. The law enforcement veteran spent 26 years working for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, but during that span his home has been in Clay County.
McQueen reshuffles Columbus police department 8/11/2011 11:31:00 AM Change is afoot at the Columbus Police Department, with four longtime veterans being reassigned to the patrol division and another being assigned additional duties, in an effort to put experience back on the streets.
Starkville bond issue in the hands of voters, Sept. 27 8/9/2011 10:58:00 AM Starkville's Board of Aldermen hopes to adopt the facilities master plan and move forward with planning for the $8.4 million police station during a special called meeting tonight at City Hall.
Copper burglars hit another Columbus business 8/8/2011 12:17:00 PM A Columbus concrete-mixing business reported Saturday that it had been raided by copper burglars, according to police.
Copper burglars hit another Columbus business 8/8/2011 12:17:00 PM A Columbus concrete-mixing business reported Saturday that it had been raided by copper burglars, according to police.
Roses and thorns 8-7-11 8/6/2011 9:30:00 PM Voters, poll workers, Mississippi State University Extension Center, Columbus' Night out Against Crime participants
Tyler Edmonds responds to Forrest Allgood comments 8/6/2011 9:28:00 PM After reading the recent comments in The Commercial Dispatch regarding District Attorney Forrest Allgood (Forrest Allgood responds, July 26, 2011, Voice of the people), I couldn't refrain from weighing in with my experiences.
Profile: St. John to start private investigation, marketing businesses 8/5/2011 10:07:00 PM He may be fired, but former Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John is nowhere near gone. When the City Council voted 5-1 to oust him July 18 for reportedly missing a Civil Service Commission hearing because of alcohol use, his supporters packed the meeting.
Gladney to face Bryan in Oktibbeha sheriff's race 8/4/2011 10:40:00 AM As expected, Steve Gladney held off Charles Sanders for the runoff spot opposite Dolph Bryan for the Oktibbeha County Sheriff Democratic nomination.
Suspects sought in Tuesday-morning shooting 8/2/2011 10:46:00 AM A Southside Columbus man is in stable condition at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle after being shot early this morning.
16th Circuit Drug Court ready to accept referrals 7/26/2011 10:51:00 AM The 16th Circuit District Drug Court started accepting referrals of non-violent first-time offenders this past week at the start of the Clay County Circuit Court term.
16th Circuit Drug Court ready to accept referrals 7/26/2011 10:51:00 AM The 16th Circuit District Drug Court started accepting referrals of non-violent first-time offenders this past week at the start of the Clay County Circuit Court term.
16th Circuit Drug Court ready to accept referrals 7/26/2011 10:51:00 AM The 16th Circuit District Drug Court started accepting referrals of non-violent first-time offenders this past week at the start of the Clay County Circuit Court term.
16th Circuit Drug Court ready to accept referrals 7/26/2011 10:51:00 AM The 16th Circuit District Drug Court started accepting referrals of non-violent first-time offenders this past week at the start of the Clay County Circuit Court term.
Two four-wheelers taken from Village Cycle Center 7/26/2011 10:50:00 AM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office is looking for suspects involved in the theft of two four-wheelers from Village Cycle Center.
Cameron Triplett: Alcohol habit 7/21/2011 12:41:00 PM This is a direct result of another "zero tolerance policy." The use (abuse?) of alcohol and/or other drugs while "on the clock," whether in public or private employ, should not be acceptable. What's good for the goose is also good for the gander.
Scott Colom: The value of self-control 7/20/2011 11:17:00 AM The recent controversy about police chief St. John has awaken the ghosts of April Fool's Day 2010. On that day, Mayor Smith and Councilman Karriem got into a physical altercation at city hall. Chief St. John is presently accused of missing an administrative hearing because he had been allegedly drinking.
City asks for St. John's resignation 7/19/2011 12:14:00 PM The Columbus City Council has offered Police Chief Joseph St. John 20 days' pay in exchange for his retirement before its meeting tonight, according to St. John's attorney, David Owen.
Steens service station robbed 7/19/2011 9:59:00 AM The Hudco Superette gas station, at 5860 Highway 50 E., is closed this morning after an armed robber burst into the store around 8 a.m. and took an undisclosed amount of cash.
Police continue search for fourth suspect 7/18/2011 11:18:00 AM Columbus Police apprehended three suspects last week and are seeking a fourth in connection with the July 11 murder of 35-year-old Eddie Terrell Bankhead.
Adele Elliott: Ulterior motives 7/16/2011 9:45:00 PM Actors are taught to understand their character's motivation. In mystery movies, the murderer must have motive. Usually that is greed, or jealousy, or maybe even passion. But without a very compelling reason, the crime is somehow hollow, and just not believable.
Election Profiles: District 16 District Attorney 7/16/2011 9:35:00 PM The District 16 District Attorney represents Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee and Oktibbeha Counties, but the race is a Lowndes County affair.
Election Profiles: District 16 District Attorney 7/16/2011 9:35:00 PM The District 16 District Attorney represents Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee and Oktibbeha Counties, but the race is a Lowndes County affair.
Election Profiles: District 16 District Attorney 7/16/2011 9:35:00 PM The District 16 District Attorney represents Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee and Oktibbeha Counties, but the race is a Lowndes County affair.
Two Columbus men arrested for Monday murder 7/15/2011 11:15:00 AM Columbus police charged two men Thursday night with the murder of a 35-year-old College Street resident earlier this week. Police are still looking for a third suspect and possibly others.
Scott Colom: The hip-hop generation 7/13/2011 12:51:00 PM Over the last 40 years, hip-hop music has been at the center of the debate over the influence of music on society. Critics argue that hip-hop has corroded American culture, that its glorification of misbehavior and female promiscuity promoted perverse morals in young people.
St. John to testify Thursday at officers' hearing 7/13/2011 11:20:00 AM The schedules of Civil Service commissioners have aligned, just in time for a Thursday hearing on the appeals of two Columbus police officers.
Our view: Joe St. John's woes 7/13/2011 9:16:00 AM Something is brewing at City Hall.
And Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John is at the center of the storm.
A small group of supporters made an appearance at a special meeting on Monday, where most thought St. John's job was on the line. And we expect it is.
Elliott and Hannon: Support St. John 7/13/2011 9:14:00 AM We are writing to voice our unconditional support for Joseph St. John, Police Chief of the City of Columbus!
Columbus police chief suspended 7/11/2011 11:02:00 AM Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John was placed on paid, administrative leave Monday pending a formal performance review by the City Council at its July 19 meeting.
Starkville, Amory men arrested for child porn 7/8/2011 12:11:00 PM A two-week investigation has landed a Starkville man in jail charged with child pornography. Monroe County man also nabbed in Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force operation.
Starkville, Amory men arrested for child porn 7/8/2011 12:11:00 PM A two-week investigation has landed a Starkville man in jail charged with child pornography. Monroe County man also nabbed in Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force operation.
Adele Elliott: Flying my flag 7/1/2011 11:21:00 PM These are tough days for the American patriot. The economy is in terrible shape, yet our government spends (seemingly) recklessly on projects of which we just do not approve. Still, taxes are raised on the battered, rapidly-disintegrating middle class, but reduced for the wealthiest among us.
Former Columbus residents die under tragic circumstances 6/30/2011 1:20:00 PM A woman who called Columbus home was beaten to death in her Irving, Texas, home last week.
Though her assailant is in jail, it offers her family little solace.
Our View: Page One crime 6/23/2011 11:48:00 AM Recently, the newspaper has received criticism for prominently featuring violent crime stories, particularly a story about a Columbus man who attacked another with a machete.
Clay County inmate escapes by cutting through razor-wire fence 6/18/2011 11:04:00 PM Amonty Young, 24, managed to cut a small section of spiral razor-wire fence surrounding the interior section of the jail's prisoner yard and squirm through before climbing over a gate and another strip of barbed wire around the exterior fence shortly before 3 p.m. Friday.
Columbus police officers' appeal postponed 6/18/2011 10:57:00 PM Between accusations that Mayor Robert Smith threatened a police officer and a key witness, Police Chief Joseph St. John, calling in sick, the Civil Service Commission appeals hearing Friday was courtroom drama at its best.
Steve Mullen: A new chapter and verse, in Oxford 6/9/2011 4:39:00 PM The move is decidedly Mississippian, done in a Mississippi way: Boxes and belongings lashed to the back of a borrowed pickup snaking down two-lane highways, passing Una and Egypt and Okolona, dodging slow-moving tractors and roadkill.
Our View: News makes us wonder, are we safe? 6/2/2011 12:56:00 PM Over in Starkville, they've got the knives out. The city was rocked by two stabbings on Tuesday.
The one that caught everyone's attention was the 6 a.m. attempted robbery at Shipley Donuts, which is nestled in a popular, busy strip mall along Highway 12.
Starkville man held on child porn charge 6/1/2011 12:26:00 PM A Starkville man is facing charges involving possession of child pornography, Attorney General Jim Hood said.
UPDATED: Assailant slashes throats, stabs workers at Starkville doughnut shop 5/31/2011 9:07:00 AM A Weir man is in custody after allegedly attacking two people at Shipley Donuts in Starkville. The Starkville Police Department identified George Johnson of Weir as the man responsible for attacking two people with a knife Tuesday morning at Shipley Donuts.
Columbus man convicted in 2005 robbery gets 35 years 5/28/2011 7:22:00 PM Tomarcus Fulks, who was convicted of a 2005 armed robbery for the second time Thursday, was sentenced Friday to 35 years in prison.Tomarcus Fulks, who was convicted of a 2005 armed robbery for the second time Thursday, was sentenced Friday to 35 years in prison.
Retrial in 2005 assault, robbery continues today 5/26/2011 11:57:00 AM In what family members called a "horrific" armed robbery, five people broke into a Lowndes County house and beat a 70-year-old man with a baseball bat July 18, 2005.
Three arrested in execution-style slaying 5/25/2011 12:22:00 PM Three men, including a newly graduated Columbus High School student, have been charged with a gang-related execution of a 19-year-old last week in Lowndes County. Three to five men, who have affiliations with both the Gangster Disciples and Vice Lords gangs, broke into a home at 850 Harrison Road at about 3:15 a.m.
Scott Colom: Drug court helps taxpayers, society 5/25/2011 12:12:00 PM Last week, Circuit Court Judge Lee Howard presented plans for a drug court in Judicial District 16, which includes Lowndes, Oktibbeha, Noxubee and Clay counties. Drug court allows drug addicts and abusers (not dealers) to receive rehabilitative services instead of prison time.
Woman who helped bystander shot in eye with BB gun 5/24/2011 12:16:00 PM A 26-year-old Zachary's waitress was shot in the left eye with a BB gun Sunday when she helped someone on her way home from work.
New Hope teen dies in shooting 5/20/2011 12:36:00 PM A 19-year-old New Hope student died in Tupelo early today after he was shot in the head in Lowndes County by three suspects, possibly in connection with a drive-by shooting early Thursday.
Witnesses testify to man's shooting death during trial 5/18/2011 1:18:00 PM Details surrounding the death of Christopher Cole emerged Tuesday as the three eyewitnesses to his shooting testified at Leslie Sharp's murder trial.
Lowndes plans to start drug court 5/16/2011 10:21:00 AM This summer, Lowndes County will join 39 other Mississippi counties with drug courts in place.
Property owners get original appraised value for land at Burns Bottom 5/15/2011 12:04:00 AM After Lowndes County took a total of less than two acres of property in the Burns Bottom area through eminent domain, two property owners returned to the table, requesting the original appraised value rather than the court's appraised value.
Sharp murder trial to begin Monday 5/14/2011 10:46:00 PM The murder trial of Leslie Sharp is set to begin Monday at the Oktibbeha County Courthouse.
Sharp, 21, of Starkville, is accused in the November 2008 killing of Christopher Cole, then 20, of Mathiston, at the corner of Rockhill and Kelly Road. She has claimed self-defense.
Columbus leaders: End the volunteer overtime system 5/7/2011 9:49:00 PM The city of Columbus is halfway through its 2011 fiscal year, and voted this week to nearly double the amount of overtime it pays its police officers -- adding $150,000 to the $200,000 it already had budgeted.
Couple robbed at Columbus motel during power outage 4/28/2011 10:11:00 AM Two men armed with pistols took advantage of the power outage Wednesday to rob a married couple staying at the Columbus Master Host Inn.
Miss. death toll from violent storms rises 4/27/2011 10:09:00 PM The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says the state's death toll from violent storms Tuesday and Wednesday is now more than 30.
Miss. death toll from violent storms rises 4/27/2011 10:09:00 PM The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says the state's death toll from violent storms Tuesday and Wednesday is now more than 30.
Bigger than ever: Cotton District Arts Festival grew by 40 percent, officals say 4/23/2011 7:40:00 PM The Cotton District Arts Festival is bigger than ever. With 147 artists and 23 food vendors, CDAF committee co-chair Maggie Bjorgum said Saturday the festival grew by 40 percent this year and she expected more than 20,000 to visit the Cotton District before the day was done.
Masked men rob Oktibbeha home, beat victims 4/21/2011 8:37:00 PM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office is investigating a home invasion which sent three victims to the hospital, one in intensive care.
Triplett gets 10 years on federal child porn charges 4/15/2011 10:47:00 AM Robert Warren Triplett Jr. was sentenced in federal court Thursday to 10 years in prison for possession of child pornography, according to reports.
Man beaten, robbed in home near CAFB 4/15/2011 10:38:00 AM Six men are being sought in connection with a Thursday morning home invasion near Columbus Air Force Base in north Lowndes County.
Our opinion: Let's get serious about graffiti 4/14/2011 11:05:00 AM Many police departments subscribe to the "broken window" theory of policing. This holds that police should get serious about preventing small crimes, such as vandalism.
Police arrest man in shooting case 4/14/2011 11:04:00 AM A 19-year-old man wanted for pelting four people with bird shot Sunday in East Columbus was arrested Wednesday after a two-day search.
Columbus police make arrest in shooting case 4/13/2011 2:08:00 PM A 19-year-old man wanted for pelting four people with bird shot Sunday in East Columbus was arrested Wednesday after a two-day search.
Men on motorcycle shoot into crowd in Columbus 4/11/2011 10:21:00 AM Two men on a motorcycle allegedly fired a long-barreled gun at a crowd of people Sunday in east Columbus, pelting three people with bird shot.
UPDATE: 87-year-old still missing, days later 4/6/2011 1:40:00 PM An 87-year-old man with Alzheimer's remained missing Friday afternoon, nearly half a week after he wandered from his son's Columbus home.
Arrest report 3-31-11 3/31/2011 10:22:00 AM A 17-year-old and two juveniles who allegedly stole eight weapons from a home Monday have been arrested thanks to a Crime Stoppers tip.
Arrest report 3-24-11 3/24/2011 10:33:00 AM U.S. Marshals have arrested a 23-year-old Columbus man for robbery after receiving numerous tips through Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers.
Body exhumed in Lowndes County cold case 3/22/2011 10:26:00 AM Almost 10 years after teens stumbled across the skeleton of 19-year-old Marrio Harris in Lowndes County, investigators have exhumed his body in hopes of finding his killer.
'A calm chaos:' Columbus native living in Tokyo recounts moments after disaster 3/22/2011 10:21:00 AM Sometime between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. Saturday before last, Mary Simmons sent her brother in Atlanta a text message from her Tokyo apartment: It said, "Big earthquake in Japan. Epicenter not Tokyo. I'm safe and warm."
Longtime Columbus hotel Gilmer Inn has colorful past 3/19/2011 7:07:00 PM When now-and-then resident Craig Oswald looks at the Gilmer Inn, he sees a treasure trove of history and a cast of colorful characters.
But that's not how the inn is seen by its neighbors.
Police: Woman charged with perjury in falsified kidnapping 3/19/2011 5:47:00 PM An 18-year-old woman was charged with perjury Thursday after she recanted claims that her ex-boyfriend had kidnapped, beaten and shot at her in late December.
Suspect in sword-attack case charged in new crimes 3/17/2011 10:29:00 AM A 44-year-old man who allegedly chased a woman from her home last year with a sword was arrested again last week, this time for grand larceny and credit card fraud from his mother.
Columbus planning board rejects plan for new Southside businesses 3/15/2011 10:50:00 AM The Columbus Planning Commission voted Monday to reject two rezoning requests in Southside that, according to the investment group spokesman, would have brought more than seven new businesses to the low-income area.
Otaku: Fascination with anime takes local artist to the source 3/12/2011 10:43:00 PM "Otaku" is a term to describe those obsessed with anime, the Japanese animation art form. Tracey Seals would probably be the first to admit she falls squarely under the heading.
Oktibbeha Sheriff's Office seeks permission for gun trade 3/8/2011 11:26:00 AM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office is upgrading its firepower. The department recently netted 23 new fourth-generation .40-caliber Glock pistols without spending a dime by trading 23 first-generation Glock service pistols along with 36 seized guns to Gold N Gun of Grenada.
Columbus on track to surpass fuel budget by $80,040 2/26/2011 8:54:00 PM As gas prices continue to rise, climbing to levels more than $3.25 per gallon this week, the City of Columbus budget is showing the strain.
Columbus chiropractor pleads guilty to fraud 2/24/2011 10:32:00 AM A Columbus chiropractor pled guilty Wednesday to falsifying the insurance claims of four patients to swindle Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Mississippi out of thousands of dollars.
Our View: A sign of the times: Along the Riverwalk, you're being watched 2/23/2011 12:10:00 PM As the weather turns warmer, more of us are getting outside. Those of us shaking off the cobwebs of winter and taking in some exercise along the Riverwalk have noticed more than the signs of spring emerging.
Columbus Riverwalk surveillance cameras go online 2/23/2011 12:03:00 PM The city has finished installing 12 cameras along the downtown Columbus Riverwalk, bringing the $18,000 first phase of the project to an end.
Columbus names interim city planner 2/18/2011 10:54:00 AM Three weeks before Columbus' first public meeting to discuss the comprehensive plan, a city planner is in office.
Ex-Marine guilty in Ambien fondling trial 2/17/2011 11:37:00 AM A Lowndes County jury today found a 26-year-old former Marine guilty of fondling his then-11-year-old niece.
Laptops, printer stolen during move to new middle school 2/15/2011 11:51:00 AM Four older-model Lanova Thinkpads and a desktop printer were stolen during the move from R.E. Hunt Intermediate School to the new Columbus Middle School.
Home burglarized while family was at church 2/14/2011 11:07:00 AM When an East Columbus family arrived home from church Sunday, they found their Beech Street home ransacked of valuable electronics.
Suspect charged in Regal Inn drive-by shooting 2/11/2011 6:58:00 AM A Sturgis man was arrested Monday night after a drive-by shooting at the Regal Inn.
At approximately 7 p.m. Monday, Starkville police responded to a call of shots fired at the two-story motel on Highway 182, just west of Old West Point Road.
Roses and thorns 2-6-11 2/5/2011 8:38:00 PM Golden Triangle first responders; Columbus City Council; African American Leadership Summit participants; Oktibbeha County's Master Gardeners; Main Street Columbus; and Town and Tower Club
Murder retrial of Columbus man delayed 2/2/2011 10:15:00 AM A Columbus man who was granted a new trial by the Mississippi Supreme Court for the 2005 murder of his on-again, off-again girlfriend in Oktibbeha County will have to wait a bit longer before he gets a new day in court.
Our view: Fewer echo chambers, more common ground 2/1/2011 10:21:00 AM What's an echo chamber? Literally, it is an enclosed, hollow space allowing our own words to bounce back to us. Figuratively, the term has applied to most any group that surrounds itself with others that have like-minded opinions.
Roses and Thorns 1-30-11 1/29/2011 9:12:00 PM Roses to Columbus High School Parent-Teacher Organization, Triangle Maintenance Service, and Danyae Pippins, and a thorn to those of us who make it easier for burglars to profit.
Arrest report 1-27-11 1/27/2011 10:24:00 AM Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers tips led to four arrests last week, two for an Artesia armed robbery and two for a Columbus burglary.
Man holds up Starkville gas station 1/26/2011 9:49:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is investigating the city's second armed robbery in less than a week.
West Point man accused of manslaughter takes stand 1/21/2011 10:24:00 AM When two men attacked him on a dark, dead-end Clay County road, Jeremy Barnhill decided to kill to protect himself, he testified Thursday.
Manslaughter or self-defense? Jury deciding Clay County man's fate 1/20/2011 9:49:00 AM Under the watchful eyes of Clay County jurors, witnesses slowly recreated the drama surrounding the 2010 shooting death of a Cedar Bluff man. Jeremy Barnhill, 26, of 9157 Deer Run in West Point, faces a charge of manslaughter for the Jan. 2, 2010, shooting.
Starkville restaurant robbed at gunpoint 1/20/2011 9:43:00 AM Starkville police are searching for a man who robbed a McDonald's Wednesday morning on Highway 12.
Scott Colom: Cheering for Leondra and Omar 1/20/2011 8:18:00 AM Over the last few weeks, I've been thinking about how much Leondra Tillman and Omar Amir Gray's ability to stay away from drugs matters for the future of Columbus.
Police on lookout for peeping Tom 1/13/2011 9:48:00 AM Columbus police were on the lookout this week for a peeping Tom who has been spotted twice in the past two weeks peering through windows.
Scott Colom: Questioning motives 1/12/2011 2:30:00 PM I've recently written about the problems with our current political discourse. This week I experienced examples of this on the local and state level.
Columbus woman shares her deeply personal story 1/8/2011 10:40:00 PM Roszalia Ellen knew she had to finally open up about her past. Trying to hide it didn't make it go away. Pretending it never happened didn't lesson its impact.
MONDAY PROFILE: Retiring officer says parenting, policing key to fighting crime 1/3/2011 10:33:00 AM It's impossible to spend 23 years on the police force and leave without a ton of stories. On the eve of his retirement from the Columbus Police Department, soft-spoken officer Neal Taylor agreed to relive a few encounters.
Attention-grabbing crime, arrests of 2010 1/2/2011 12:18:00 AM From adultery arrests and a drunken, accidental sleepover to a sword-wielding robber, here are some of the high-profile local crimes that stood out in 2010:
Attention-grabbing crime, arrests of 2010 1/2/2011 12:18:00 AM From adultery arrests and a drunken, accidental sleepover to a sword-wielding robber, here are some of the high-profile local crimes that stood out in 2010:
The Year in Review: Columbus and the Golden Triangle 1/2/2011 12:05:00 AM All eyes were on City Hall, for good and bad reasons this year, as Columbus city leaders grabbed headlines for a physical altercation. The city of Columbus and Lowndes County also have been waiting with bated breath for plans to be finalized on a downtown park, which started as a simple soccer complex and has evolved into a sprawling Central Park-style gateway into Columbus. And the future remains uncertain for Mississippi University for Women, as a Columbus businesswoman continues her interim presidency of the university indefinitely.
Betty Stone: What didja get for Christmas? 12/25/2010 11:38:00 PM By now Santa Claus must surely be back at the North Pole, utterly exhausted after his whirlwind trip through all those time and temperature zones on his annual marathon journey. Actually, a mere marathon pales by comparison.
Cameron Triplett: The fate of small towns 12/18/2010 7:50:00 PM It's great that Columbus is doing something to help its downtown area become vibrant again, and that's all well and good. However, there are many small towns in the Golden Triangle and surrounding area that are dying, drying up, and disappearing from view.
Fourth New Lite Grocery robbery suspect arrested 12/8/2010 11:08:00 AM Police on Tuesday arrested a fourth man wanted in connection with the robbery of New Lite Grocery Sunday night on Highway 12 West.
Stay safe this holiday season 12/7/2010 11:31:00 AM The shopping season is in full swing, and with it comes an inevitable uptick in thefts and scams.
Teens may be connected to robberies 12/6/2010 3:43:00 PM The Starkville Police Department arrested one man and two juveniles Sunday for an armed robbery earlier in the night on Highway 12, and are investigating their possible connection with an earlier store robbery.
Adele Elliott: Christmas wishes 12/4/2010 10:15:00 PM Columbus certainly appears to be wrapped in the spirit of the season. It seems that yards are decorated a bit earlier this year. Chris and I got our tree up only a few days after Thanksgiving. This is my goal every year, but not always my reality.
Roses and thorns 12-5-10 12/4/2010 10:15:00 PM Tornado victims; Columbus Main Street; Debbie Fancher; party responsible for the release of a Lowndes County murder suspect
Embezzlement case against ex-Packet employee moves forward 12/3/2010 10:28:00 AM Former Columbus Packet owner Roger Larsen took the stand in municipal court Thursday, testifying that an ex-employee embezzled up to $22,167.70 in cash over a four-year period.
14-year-old with police rap sheet arrested in burglaries 12/2/2010 12:17:00 PM A 14-year-old boy was locked in jail for the third time this year Saturday, when he was charged with a burglary in Columbus and four in Lowndes County.
Starkville police release images of robbery suspects 12/1/2010 11:44:00 AM The Starkville Police Department Tuesday released surveillance camera images of two men suspected of robbing a convenience store this weekend on Russell Street.
Police release info on robbery suspects 11/30/2010 11:09:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is asking for the public's help to identify two men suspected of robbing a convenience store this weekend on Russell Street.
Man stabbed outside Columbus nightclub 11/30/2010 11:09:00 AM A 19-year-old Columbus man was stabbed early today while talking to a woman outside a local night spot, according to police.
Crime numbers rise in Columbus, Starkville 11/29/2010 9:13:00 AM Crime in Columbus increased 16.9 percent from 2008 to 2009, making it the city with the 11th highest crime rate in the state, according to a recent FBI study.
Crime numbers rise in Columbus, Starkville 11/29/2010 9:13:00 AM Crime in Columbus increased 16.9 percent from 2008 to 2009, making it the city with the 11th highest crime rate in the state, according to a recent FBI study.
Oktibbeha woman resentenced to life without parole for murder 11/23/2010 3:21:00 PM Less than a month after the Mississippi Supreme Court overturned the death sentence of convicted murderer Kristi Fulgham, an Oktibbeha County Circuit Court judge Tuesday gave the woman life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Columbus fugitive found in Memphis 11/23/2010 10:24:00 AM A 27-year-old man charged with an August robbery and kidnapping has been extradited from Memphis, Tenn., to Columbus.
Woman shot in Drive-By 11/20/2010 9:34:00 PM A Columbus woman was shot in the back Friday night in south Columbus.
Starkville police blotter 11-19-10 11/19/2010 10:50:00 AM The Starkville Police Department Thursday released its arrest blotter dating back to Nov. 10.
Columbus man guilty of shooting 83-year-old with shotgun 11/18/2010 10:34:00 AM A 21-year-old man was found guilty of aggravated assault and armed robbery Wednesday in the 2006 shotgun-shooting of a then-83-year-old man near the Lee Home.
Belew found not guilty of sexual battery 11/17/2010 10:00:00 AM After about 45 minutes of deliberation, a jury returned a not-guilty verdict in the sexual-battery trial of a former head of security at Columbus Air Force Base.
Lawsuit: 'Barbaric' conditions at Miss. youth correctional facility 11/16/2010 2:01:00 PM At the Walnut Grove Youth Correctional Facility, guards have smuggled drugs to inmates, had sex with some of them and denied others medical treatment and basic educational services, according to a lawsuit filed by the Southern Poverty Law Center.
Plans to bring crime expert to Columbus hit snag 11/16/2010 10:32:00 AM Plans to bring a crime prevention expert to Columbus have hit a snag, forcing law enforcement and a community task force to move on to Plan B.
Sex crimes on Lowndes Circuit Court trial docket 11/11/2010 10:15:00 AM A 72-year-old Artesia man accused of raping his 16-year-old granddaughter is one of several sex crime trials on the docket this month in Lowndes County Circuit Court, which began Monday.
Man dies weeks after being cleared in 1979 killing 11/9/2010 4:46:00 PM A Mississippi man who spent more than 30 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit has died less than a month after his name was cleared in the case.
Crime adds new wrinkle to busy mom's routine 11/8/2010 12:02:00 PM Life just got a little more chaotic for Kellie Short. Recently she was flooded with calls about break-ins at Providence Place in Columbus. Police are investigating a string of home burglaries in the subdivision. And Short, property manager for Providence Place and Columbus Gardens, has had to field the calls and help reassure tenants.
Crime adds new wrinkle to busy mom's routine 11/8/2010 12:02:00 PM Life just got a little more chaotic for Kellie Short. Recently she was flooded with calls about break-ins at Providence Place in Columbus. Police are investigating a string of home burglaries in the subdivision. And Short, property manager for Providence Place and Columbus Gardens, has had to field the calls and help reassure tenants.
Sharp to claim self-defense in murder trial 11/6/2010 9:23:00 PM Sixteenth Circuit District Court Judge Lee Howard on Friday set the ground rules for the January murder trial of a Starkville woman accused of pulling the trigger in a 2008 shooting death off Rockhill Road.
Technology theft is focus of Nov. 16 program 11/6/2010 9:12:00 PM Brett Kingstone has a simple message for America's manufacturers, entrepreneurs and lawmakers: protect the country's intellectual property and innovative technology.
Murder hearing elicits claims of witness intimidation, misconduct 11/5/2010 10:51:00 AM With claims of witness intimidation, prosecutorial misconduct and sloppy investigative work, a hearing for a Starkville woman accused of killing a Mathiston man in November 2008 grew contentious Thursday morning in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court.
Armed robbery suspect arrested 11/4/2010 11:01:00 AM Bond was set at $125,000 Wednesday for a Weir man suspected in a Tuesday morning hold-up on Highway 12.
Columbus keeping eye on Eveningside Apartments 11/4/2010 11:01:00 AM The city may be satisfied with the condition of the former Eveningside Apartment complex, but the property remains under scrutiny.
Two charged in carjacking 11/3/2010 11:55:00 AM A Columbus man and a Hamilton woman have been charged with an October carjacking in the Piggly Wiggly parking lot on Highway 12 in Starkville.
Drive-by shooting suspect surrenders to police 10/27/2010 12:06:00 PM A Starkville man wanted for a Monday drive-by shooting on the north side of town surrendered to police Tuesday and was charged with aggravated assault.
Rob Hardy: 'Charlie Chan' 10/25/2010 11:52:00 AM Sherlock Holmes, Sam Spade, Lord Peter Wimsey and Hercule Poirot are among the most famous of literary characters. They may have had their eccentricities, but being of an exotic or foreign racial extraction was not among them. It's different for another famous shamus, Charlie Chan; I know detective fiction fans might be able to think of some other non-white gumshoe, but he's the only one who comes to my mind.
Crime lab officer responsible for landing $518,000 grant for new officers 10/25/2010 9:49:00 AM Grant-writing is not in Bill Smith's job description. But the director of forensic chemistry has written six grants or so in his 14 years at the Columbus Police Department, bringing in hundreds of thousands of dollars for the city.
Police: Woman made up rape report 10/22/2010 11:48:00 AM Starkville woman who told police two men tried to rape her Monday night off Industrial Park Road was charged Wednesday with filing a false report.
Columbus to hold crime prevention meeting 10/21/2010 10:56:00 AM The Columbus Police Department will hear citizens concerns and suggestions about crime prevention at a citywide meeting in the Trotter Convention Center tonight at 6.
Ex-Clay circuit clerk innocent of embezzlement charge 10/20/2010 10:34:00 AM WEST POINT -- A former Clay County Circuit Court clerk was found not guilty Tuesday of embezzling almost $5,000 in fees paid to the court.
Former MSU student charged with false robbery report 10/18/2010 11:29:00 AM A continuing investigation by Mississippi State's police department has determined that a campus crime reported earlier by a former student was false.
Nunnelee: 'Fear' driving recession 10/16/2010 9:05:00 PM Counting down to the Nov. 2 1st Congressional District election, Republican challenger Alan Nunnelee is touting Lowndes County as an example of what can happen under the right federal leadership.
'Governor's Daughters' to film in area this month 10/2/2010 9:49:00 PM Cooler temperatures aren't the only thing October will bring to The Golden Triangle. This month, Lawyer Henderson, along with the cast and crew of "The Governor's Daughters," will be filming around the area, according to the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Roses and Thorns 9-26-10 9/25/2010 7:32:00 PM A rose to the city of Columbus, Lowndes County, and the Columbus Lowndes Recreation Authority for the open, public process if has gone through to get public input on the soccer complex and park planned for Burns Bottom.
Columbus puts officers on bike patrol 9/22/2010 9:52:00 AM he wheels are turning at the Columbus Police Department -- literally. The department has a new bicycle patrol unit that will make rounds at events and in high-crime areas in the city, said CPD Public Information Officer Terrie Songer.
Editorial: Ground-level policing 9/22/2010 9:48:00 AM Columbus has fielded its first two pedaling patrolmen, who will be policing high-crime areas on mountain bikes. Patrolmen Kenneth Brewer and Dwight Smith are on bikes part-time until they complete their training, which will enable them to train other officers.
Ex-Packet employee out of jail after arrest 9/21/2010 12:05:00 PM Former Columbus Packet Advertising Director Aimee Houtman Shaw is out of jail today, after posting a $15,000 bond Monday afternoon.
Starkville duo arrested for making false robbery report 9/21/2010 10:21:00 AM The Starkville Police Department has arrested two people and charged them with making a false police report after the pair claimed they were robbed this weekend in the Cotton District, then admitted to making up the story.
A need for more compassion 9/17/2010 9:58:00 AM I read with interest the comments made by District Attorney Forrest Allgood regarding the testimony given by Jim Kitchens at the sentencing hearing of Quintez Hodges. I know nothing about the case of Quintez Hodges. According to what I have read in the paper, Quintez Hodges is most likely a dangerous man, and he deserves punishment for his crimes.
A year later, Family pleads for information on Kaila Morris' disappearance 9/17/2010 9:41:00 AM On the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009, Bonnie Morris Triplett was surprised by a visit from her daughter, Kaila, who "popped over," to chat with her mother about, among other things, a pair of bulldog puppies.
Kitchens says 'gist' of his testimony was correct 9/17/2010 9:41:00 AM As Jim Kitchens sat in his office Thursday afternoon in the Lowndes County Courthouse, law books lined the shelves, black robes hung in a nearby closet and stacks of files and paperwork covered his desk.
Kitchens says 'gist' of his testimony was correct 9/17/2010 9:41:00 AM As Jim Kitchens sat in his office Thursday afternoon in the Lowndes County Courthouse, law books lined the shelves, black robes hung in a nearby closet and stacks of files and paperwork covered his desk.
Kitchens says 'gist' of his testimony was correct 9/17/2010 9:41:00 AM As Jim Kitchens sat in his office Thursday afternoon in the Lowndes County Courthouse, law books lined the shelves, black robes hung in a nearby closet and stacks of files and paperwork covered his desk.
Weekend shooting at elementary school injures three 9/14/2010 12:39:00 PM STARKVILLE -- The Starkville Police Department is investigating a weekend shooting which left three skateboarders injured at Sudduth Elementary School.
Two caught, one still at large in motorcycle theft 9/14/2010 10:55:00 AM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office has arrested two men and is searching for another wanted in connection with a motorcycle theft last month off Old Mayhew Road.
Police arrest second suspect in Brookville Gardens incident 9/14/2010 10:55:00 AM A second suspect wanted in connection with an incident during which shots were fired last month at Brookville Gardens was arrested late last week in Clay County.
Editorial: Inmate GED program can pay dividends 9/13/2010 9:57:00 AM As ironic as it sounds, some local inmates can thank getting locked up for giving them a jump start on their education.
UNSOLVED: As time passes, arrests in homicides more elusive 9/12/2010 12:12:00 AM The critical information in a murder case is gathered within the first 72 hours. From there, the case begins to get cold. As the years drag on, witnesses move or die; some evidence is not preserved. But an unsolved case is never closed.
UNSOLVED: As time passes, arrests in homicides more elusive 9/12/2010 12:12:00 AM The critical information in a murder case is gathered within the first 72 hours. From there, the case begins to get cold. As the years drag on, witnesses move or die; some evidence is not preserved. But an unsolved case is never closed.
UNSOLVED: As time passes, arrests in homicides more elusive 9/12/2010 12:12:00 AM The critical information in a murder case is gathered within the first 72 hours. From there, the case begins to get cold. As the years drag on, witnesses move or die; some evidence is not preserved. But an unsolved case is never closed.
Problems at Columbus bars slowing, chief says 9/12/2010 12:12:00 AM Violent crime has been under a microscope in Columbus since a pair of murders in April and May shook the community. City officials hope to crack down on violence in all forms, but the type of business where one of those murders and several recent violent encounters occurred is of particular concern.
Dispatch begins charging for some online content 9/2/2010 8:31:00 AM The Dispatch began charging for some content on its website today, in a metered paywall program that will allow users of cdispatch.com free views on some content.
Dispatch begins charging for some online content 9/2/2010 8:31:00 AM The Dispatch began charging for some content on its website today, in a metered paywall program that will allow users of cdispatch.com free views on some content.
Dispatch begins charging for some online content 9/2/2010 8:31:00 AM The Dispatch began charging for some content on its website today, in a metered paywall program that will allow users of cdispatch.com free views on some content.
Police searching for second Brookville Gardens suspect 9/1/2010 11:10:00 AM Starkville police have arrested one man and are looking for another in connection with an incident at Brookville Gardens last month, during which several shots were fired and an apartment door was kicked in illegally.
Police searching for second Brookville Gardens suspect 9/1/2010 11:10:00 AM Starkville police have arrested one man and are looking for another in connection with an incident at Brookville Gardens last month, during which several shots were fired and an apartment door was kicked in illegally.
Rob Hardy: "Hunting Evil" 8/31/2010 10:31:00 AM With the end of the Second World War, there was much that had to be repaired, and among the human repairs that were needed was hunting the former Nazis that joined the teeming displaced masses.
Sheriff's department searches for motorcycle thieves 8/27/2010 9:56:00 AM The Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department is asking for the public to help identify and apprehend three men suspected of stealing a motorcycle Wednesday from a local apartment complex.
Salute committee seeks community support 8/26/2010 9:42:00 AM Time is drawing near as the Salute to Lowndes County's Finest Committee strives to reach their fundraising goal. Their goal is to raise $10,000 for the First Responders Recovery Fund and the committee is asking local business leaders for their support.
Child porn, sexual battery trials continued 8/25/2010 10:58:00 AM Separate trials for two Lowndes County men, one facing charges for child pornography and the other for sexual battery, have been continued until October in Lowndes County Circuit Court.
Triplett child-porn trial continued until October 8/24/2010 4:11:00 PM The trial of a Lowndes County man on possession of child pornography charges -- scheduled for Tuesday in Lowndes County Circuit Court -- has been continued until October.
Council, police: Citizens' help key to combat crime 8/24/2010 9:47:00 AM Crime is a community problem and citizen involvement is a powerful preventative measure, the Columbus City Council and command staff of the Columbus Police Department agreed.
Ex-reserve officer pleads guilty to rape 8/24/2010 9:47:00 AM A 14-year reserve Columbus police officer pleaded guilty Monday evening in Lowndes County Circuit Court to statutorily raping his girlfriend's underage daughter multiple times.
Local pawnshop hit second time 8/23/2010 9:58:00 AM Columbus police responded to a slew of crimes over the weekend, including the second break-in at Frank's Pawn & Gun in East Columbus and another armed robbery by a 14-year-old.
Police search for suspect in attempted rape 8/19/2010 1:42:00 PM Columbus police are seeking a masked man who tried to rape an 85-year-old woman in the Northhaven Woods neighborhood Thursday.
Police on the lookout for shoplifting team 8/19/2010 9:39:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is searching for a group of women suspected of shoplifting at several businesses throughout the city.
Columbus armed robbery, kidnapping suspects on the loose 8/16/2010 10:05:00 AM Columbus police were still on the lookout this morning for suspects in a Sunday robbery and kidnapping. A Columbus man escaped from the trunk of his moving car early Sunday after he was robbed and kidnapped by two masked gunmen who are still on the loose.
Columbus to spend $18,000 on Riverwalk cameras 8/13/2010 12:07:00 PM The city of Columbus will spend about $18,000 to install surveillance cameras at the Riverwalk over the next couple weeks in the first of several phases to beef up park security, said Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John.
Roses and thorns 8-8-10 8/7/2010 9:21:00 PM Night Out participants; educators and school officials; George Gerhart; Edward Valibus; Columbus Air Force Base;
Two cases reported this year of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 8/7/2010 8:57:00 PM Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using fine-tipped tweezers to remove attached ticks, noting ticks should not be removed with bare hands and gloves or other protective coverings should be worn.
Two cases reported this year of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 8/7/2010 8:57:00 PM Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using fine-tipped tweezers to remove attached ticks, noting ticks should not be removed with bare hands and gloves or other protective coverings should be worn.
Two cases reported this year of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 8/7/2010 8:57:00 PM Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using fine-tipped tweezers to remove attached ticks, noting ticks should not be removed with bare hands and gloves or other protective coverings should be worn.
Alderman confronts Caledonia mayor 8/4/2010 11:36:00 AM Tensions were high between aldermen and the mayor at Caledonia's aldermen meeting on Tuesday night.
Police search for stabbing suspect 8/3/2010 1:10:00 PM Starkville police are searching for a man wanted for his role in a stabbing Sunday afternoon outside Mac's Meat Market.
Trust in police divided along racial lines, group says 8/3/2010 1:10:00 PM Points of action are beginning to take shape as a task force consisting of law enforcement, local politicians and concerned citizens seek to counteract violent crime.
Police seek link between masked robberies 8/1/2010 1:35:00 AM Authorities in the Columbus area are investigating a possible pattern of recent robberies by masked gunmen.
Help take a bite out of crime Tuesday night 8/1/2010 1:35:00 AM On Tuesday, the Columbus Police Department will be sponsoring our Annual National Night Out on Crime Block Parties.
Masked men hold up early-morning partiers 7/26/2010 9:57:00 AM Two masked men held up a group of approximately 10 partiers in a Columbus apartment Saturday morning.
Roses and Thorns 7-25-10 7/24/2010 10:11:00 PM Columbus City Council; festival organizers; Bryan Brown; Starkville's curfew task force; and Starkville School District
Graffiti artists arrested 7/24/2010 10:03:00 PM Two Mississippi State University art students surrendered to police Friday and were charged with malicious mischief for their roles in the recent rash of stenciled graffiti seen around Starkville.
Task force opposes juvenile curfew in Starkville 7/23/2010 9:42:00 AM With the exception of one member, the city of Starkville's curfew task force is opposed to a proposed juvenile curfew and plans to make a recommendation against one next month to the seven-member Board of Aldermen.
Police: Triplett 'inappropriately touched' missing stepdaughter 7/22/2010 10:42:00 AM OXFORD -- More details of the relationship between a missing Lowndes County woman and her stepfather were revealed Wednesday, before a federal judge gave attorneys 10 days to file briefs prior to ruling on a motion to suppress evidence in the trial of her stepfather, who is accused of child pornography charges.
Aldermen reject University Club condos 7/21/2010 10:39:00 AM The Starkville Board of Aldermen Tuesday denied a developer's conditional use request to convert the former University Inn hotel into condominiums.
Police going after graffiti artist 7/21/2010 10:39:00 AM When the first stenciled storm trooper appeared months ago on the side of the former Starkville Buses building at Jackson and Lampkin streets, Starkville Police Department Chief David Lindley admits he thought it was "kind of cute."
Council questions productivity of city work crews 7/20/2010 9:02:00 AM During a retreat for city officials Monday, the Columbus City Council expressed concerns of underutilized police substations and underperforming Public Works Department crews.
Adultery arrests highlight all-but-forgotten state law 7/15/2010 10:29:00 AM When Cortiga Williams pressed charges against her husband for adultery earlier this month, she called upon a nearly forgotten law. In Mississippi, it's a crime to cheat on a spouse by having sex or even living with another person.
Adultery arrests highlight all-but-forgotten state law 7/15/2010 10:29:00 AM When Cortiga Williams pressed charges against her husband for adultery earlier this month, she called upon a nearly forgotten law. In Mississippi, it's a crime to cheat on a spouse by having sex or even living with another person.
Adultery arrests highlight all-but-forgotten state law 7/15/2010 10:29:00 AM When Cortiga Williams pressed charges against her husband for adultery earlier this month, she called upon a nearly forgotten law. In Mississippi, it's a crime to cheat on a spouse by having sex or even living with another person.
Adultery arrests highlight all-but-forgotten state law 7/15/2010 10:29:00 AM When Cortiga Williams pressed charges against her husband for adultery earlier this month, she called upon a nearly forgotten law. In Mississippi, it's a crime to cheat on a spouse by having sex or even living with another person.
Police ID remaining robbery suspects 7/13/2010 11:12:00 AM The Starkville Police Department Monday released the identities of the two remaining suspects wanted for an armed robbery last week on Spring Street.
Starkville police identify remaining robbery suspects 7/13/2010 10:35:00 AM The Starkville Police Department Monday released the identities of the two remaining suspects wanted for an armed robbery last week on Spring Street.
Group focuses on community, youth, crime prevention 7/13/2010 10:35:00 AM A community taskforce formed in June with the overall goal of addressing violent crime in Columbus and Lowndes County is refining its focus.
Columbus police probe similar crimes 7/12/2010 9:35:00 AM Columbus police are investigating a pair of armed robberies which took place early Sunday.
Police seek Starkville armed robbery suspects 7/9/2010 1:07:00 PM The Starkville Police Department is searching for three suspects wanted in connection with an armed robbery Monday morning on Spring Street.
A cold case heats up: Local mother finds justice 17 years later 7/9/2010 12:46:00 PM Wednesday morning Muffie Ellis of Columbus got the phone call she's been waiting on for 17 years. On the line was a San Diego district attorney with news police had just arrested the man they think murdered her son that many years ago.
Alleged drunk driver kills motorcyclist 7/2/2010 10:15:00 AM A Columbus man was killed Thursday evening when a drunk driver struck his motorcycle on Highway 45 North, police said.
Roses and Thorns 6-27-10 6/26/2010 7:06:00 PM Jarvis Varnado and Latavious Williams, LeAnn Shelton, the purveyors and patrons of farmer's markets, the Columbus Exchange Club and the Columbus Chapter of the National Action Network.
Steve Mullen: Adventures in street-crossing 6/23/2010 10:05:00 AM I don't have a crystal ball, but I know where I may very well die one day: In the intersection of College Street and Fifth Street South.
MSU police still seek sexual assault suspect 6/23/2010 10:05:00 AM The Mississippi State University Police Department is calling on the public to help identify a man suspected of sexually assaulting a coed June 5 near McKee Hall.
Adele Elliott: Changes 6/20/2010 2:30:00 AM June is considered a romantic month. More brides choose this month than any other. I'm not sure why they do. It certainly is not the prettiest, or the most temperate. Maybe it is because school has just ended and recent college grads can begin their new life with a new wife (or husband). It is a month for big changes.
Youth, adults continue to talk crime prevention 6/17/2010 11:54:00 AM Crime prevention remains at the forefront of the community's concern today as the kids speak up and the adults continue to work behind the scenes.
Police: Juvenile curfew wouldn't curtail crime 6/17/2010 10:56:00 AM The city's newly formed Curfew Task Force met for the first time Wednesday and heard reports from officers in the Starkville Police Department which express doubt over whether a juvenile curfew would result in a decrease in crime.
Child porn trial continued again 6/17/2010 10:56:00 AM The trial of a Lowndes County man arrested on child pornography charges during an investigation into his missing stepdaughter again has been continued.
Alabama professor charged in brother's shooting death 6/16/2010 4:29:00 PM A biology professor charged with killing three of her colleagues at an Alabama university has been indicted in the 1986 shooting death of her brother in Massachusetts, prosecutors announced Wednesday.
Editorial: Getting to the root of local crime 6/16/2010 1:07:00 PM Two fatal shootings in Columbus in April and May have served as a wake-up call to the city, with citizens organizing meeting and rallies to curb crime and violence.
Columbus, West Point men arrested on drug charges 6/14/2010 10:53:00 AM WEST POINT -- Two men -- one from Columbus, the other from West Point -- remained in jail on drug charges, Friday afternoon.
Roses and thorns 6-13-10 6/13/2010 12:40:00 AM Community members who participated in a communitywide meeting; Gary Moore; Jackie McGrath; Kay McElroy; Matthew Berk, Peggy Buckley and Ryan Mackay
Recent violence spurs rallies, crime forums 6/11/2010 11:49:00 AM A recent string of violent crimes in Columbus and surrounding cities has provoked the community to begin looking for solutions from within.
Public meeting this week on crime prevention 6/8/2010 1:13:00 PM Noting crime is a community issue, District 5 Supervisor Leroy Brooks Monday reminded the Lowndes County supervisors of a public meeting on crime prevention, to be held Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Columbus Municipal Complex.
Kay McElroy makes rescuing big cats, other animals life's work 6/8/2010 10:32:00 AM CALEDONIA -- Caring for a family of 300 isn't easy, especially when they act like a bunch of animals. But that's life for Kay McElroy. The 66-year-old is the owner of Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary, an organization that rescues abused animals.
This time, the good guys wear masks 6/3/2010 10:55:00 AM Columbus police officers are planning a big undercover operation on the evening of June 25. But instead of donning shaggy hair and stained T-shirts to bag meth dealers, they'll be in slacks and masks.
Starkville considers curfew 6/2/2010 11:01:00 AM In response to recent violence in the city, the Starkville Board of Aldermen is considering a curfew to keep young people off the streets.
Polls open today for primaries 6/1/2010 11:24:00 AM Mississippi congressional candidates face the challenge of attracting voters for party primaries that follow the long Memorial Day weekend.
Polls open today for primaries 6/1/2010 11:24:00 AM Mississippi congressional candidates face the challenge of attracting voters for party primaries that follow the long Memorial Day weekend.
Polls open today for primaries 6/1/2010 11:24:00 AM Mississippi congressional candidates face the challenge of attracting voters for party primaries that follow the long Memorial Day weekend.
Steve Mullen: A tragic lesson, not learned 5/26/2010 1:28:00 PM Graduation parties should be a time for celebration. But parties are ending in gunfire, and death, all too often.
Fired police chief Bingham sues West Point 5/20/2010 10:04:00 AM WEST POINT -- Former West Point Police Chief Steve Bingham has filed a lawsuit against the city of West Point and four members of the Board of Selectmen alleging wrongful discharge, defamation and infliction of emotional distress on the basis of race.
Intergovernmemtal committee talks crime prevention 5/20/2010 10:04:00 AM Community involvement is key to crime prevention, city and county officials said Wednesday.
During a meeting of the intergovernmental relations committee, officials discussed crime in Columbus and Lowndes County.
Roses and Thorns 5-16-10 5/15/2010 8:55:00 PM Columbus police officers, Columbus Air Force Base, Trooper James Burrow, Hitching Lot Farmers' Market and the Starkville Community Market.
Columbus nixes plan for separate ethics code 5/12/2010 10:51:00 AM Columbus leaders have backed off plans to implement an ethics code for elected officials, deciding state law already governs ethics in office.
Columbus police branch out with fifth substation 5/12/2010 10:51:00 AM At the opening of the Columbus Police Department's fifth substation Tuesday on Maple Street, Chief Joseph St. John says the CPD has finished expanding geographically, but not methodologically.
Leadership group tackles crime prevention 5/11/2010 9:27:00 AM Columbus residents play a key role in preventing crime and now, said District 5 Supervisor Leroy Brooks, they have a chance to get involved.
Pate pleads guilty to murder 5/6/2010 3:16:00 PM A Lowndes County man today pleaded guilty to the 2009 shooting death of his wife. he was sentenced to life in prison.
Garthia Elena Burnett: City not so friendly anymore? 5/5/2010 3:20:00 PM If you’ve had your ear to the grapevine over the past couple years, you’d think Columbus could be featured on an episode of “Gangland.”
Sex advance possible motive in white supremacist murder case 5/4/2010 4:27:00 PM The black ex-convict charged in the grisly murder of white supremacist Richard Barrett confessed he killed the man because Barrett asked him to perform a sexual act, investigators testified Tuesday.
Robbery report deemed false 4/29/2010 11:44:00 AM A continuing investigation by the Mississippi State University Police Department has determined that a campus crime reported earlier this week by a male student was false.
Shooting suspects face armed robbery charges 4/23/2010 9:46:00 AM STARKVILLE — Two men suspected of shooting a man last year on North Montgomery Street are facing new charges in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court.
Family sues city for jail death 4/23/2010 9:46:00 AM It’s been more than three years since the death of 52-year-old Roosevelt Pernell Jr.
Website planned for local Crime Stoppers 4/22/2010 10:21:00 AM Approval of officers and discussion of putting together a Web page were among a few items discussed at Wednesday’s meeting of the Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers.
Website planned for local Crime Stoppers 4/22/2010 10:21:00 AM Approval of officers and discussion of putting together a Web page were among a few items discussed at Wednesday’s meeting of the Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers.
Police: No new leads in fatal club shooting 4/22/2010 9:38:00 AM Columbus police said this morning they haven’t developed any new leads on a potential suspect in the fatal shooting at a Columbus nightclub Tuesday night.
Roses and Thorns 4-18-10 4/17/2010 9:06:00 PM Golden Triangle law enforcement agencies; Starkville Area Arts Council; Harvey Myrick and Grilling on the River; city of Columbus and Lowndes County
Roger Truesdale: Writer’s block and remembering Lynn 4/17/2010 8:20:00 PM Some of you may have noticed that I have been absent over the last few weeks. I have had writer’s block. I called on a friend of mine who writes and edits for a living. He gave me hope. He confessed that he, too, suffers from this malady once in a while.
Clay County murder cases continued 4/16/2010 11:37:00 AM The case of Robert Rupert, which was scheduled to be heard during the April term of Clay County Circuit Court has been continued again until the July term, according to Clay County Circuit Court documents.
Police beef up downtown presence 4/14/2010 9:39:00 AM Local business leaders consider it a win-win situation for keeping crime down in downtown Columbus.
Abderdeen leaders appeal for peace, healing 4/7/2010 11:06:00 AM ABERDEEN — The crowd at the Tuesday’s meeting of the Aberdeen Board of Aldermen twice applauded appeals for peace and healing from city officials. Now if only they could stop arguing long enough to heal.
Suspects won’t be charged in Aberdeen man’s death 4/7/2010 11:06:00 AM ABERDEEN — Eight individuals being held at the Monroe County Jail will not be charged in the death of the Aberdeen man they allegedly assaulted and robbed.
Adele Elliott: Rites of spring 4/3/2010 9:55:00 PM Finally, spring! After such a difficult winter, it seems the world is filled with promise and truly ready for rebirth.
Regional police agencies unite to solve old crimes 4/2/2010 12:27:00 PM Red and white signs still are peppered throughout the city of Columbus, displaying the faces of senior citizens killed in the late ’90s.
Regional police agencies unite to solve old crimes 4/2/2010 12:27:00 PM Red and white signs still are peppered throughout the city of Columbus, displaying the faces of senior citizens killed in the late ’90s.
Aberdeen mayor arrested on felony bribery charges 4/1/2010 1:32:00 PM Aberdeen Police Assistant Chief Tommy Edwards confirmed reports Thursday that Aberdeen Mayor Jim Ballard was arrested on felony bribery charges. Ballard is out on a $5,000 bond.
Authorities search for robbery, false pretense suspects 3/30/2010 9:13:00 AM Law enforcement officials in Oktibbeha County are asking for the public’s help to find two suspects wanted for unrelated crimes.
The Starkville Police Department is searching for a suspect who robbed a convenience store this weekend on Highway 12.
Court amnesty program total up to $330,000 3/26/2010 9:11:00 AM With the April 30 deadline approaching for the city’s amnesty program for outstanding municipal court fines, the numbers continue to grow — both in the number of warrants served, and the amount of fines being collected.
Steve Mullen: A pop quiz for the first quarter 3/24/2010 11:03:00 AM We’re at the end of the first quarter of 2010, so we’re having a little pop quiz to see if you’ve been paying attention.
Rob Hardy: The big heist 3/22/2010 12:57:00 PM The heist movie is a Hollywood standard, so when a real heist is made, it is necessary for those telling about the real heist to compare it to the movie versions. Scott Andrew Selby and Greg Campbell have repeatedly done this in “Flawless: Inside the Largest Diamond Heist in History “(Union Square Press). They repeatedly refer to the 2001 remake “Ocean’s Eleven” when telling the story of the 2003 burglary of an office called the Diamond Center in the heart of the Diamond District in Antwerp.
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM Speaking on behalf of Columbus Mayor Robert Smith, Vice Mayor and Ward 6 Councilman Bill Gavin Tuesday told the Columbus Rotarians the city is “doing really well.”
St. John: Accidents, auto burglaries preventable 3/16/2010 10:37:00 AM Helping the Columbus Police Department in its efforts to deter crime in the city is what the Minority Leadership Training and Development Program seeks to accomplish, according to Lowndes County District 5 Supervisor and program facilitator Leroy Brooks.
Police still searching for suspects in computer, identity theft cases 3/4/2010 9:56:00 AM STARKVILLE — The Starkville Police Department is still searching for two suspects wanted for stealing four touch-screen computers from Wal-Mart over the past three months, and a woman suspected of illegally using another woman’s debit card to purchase items from the same store.
Ex-policeman to serve two years 2/27/2010 10:58:00 PM A former West Point police officer will spend more than two years in jail for embezzlement.
Ex-West Point police officer sentenced to more than two years in prison 2/26/2010 4:51:00 PM OXFORD — Prosecutors say a former West Point police officer has been ordered to serve two years and three months in federal prison for his part in a scheme to embezzle money from a crime-fighting fund he oversaw.
Police: No leads in tire vandalism 2/26/2010 11:06:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is still searching for a suspect or suspects who slashed tires on a half-dozen vehicles last weekend.
Police search for computer thieves 2/23/2010 9:22:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is searching for two men suspected of stealing four high-end touch screen computers from Wal-Mart over the past three months.
Wanted convict suspected in Clay County home invasion 2/22/2010 10:37:00 AM Kenneth Macon, who has been a person of interest in two residential break-ins and a brutal assault in Columbus, may have also broken into a Clay County home over the weekend.
Wanted convict suspected in Clay County home invasion 2/22/2010 10:37:00 AM Kenneth Macon, who has been a person of interest in two residential break-ins and a brutal assault in Columbus, may have also broken into a Clay County home over the weekend.
Starkville police search for identity theft suspect 2/18/2010 10:09:00 AM The Starkville Police Department is searching for a woman suspected of using a Missouri woman's debit card last month to purchase items at Wal-Mart on Highway 12 West.
Reward increases for at-large convict 2/18/2010 10:09:00 AM Reward money for information pledged by private individuals to be used in leading to the arrest of Kenneth Macon has increased from $800 to $1,100, according to Columbus Police Department officials.
Police still searching for convict wanted in robberies 2/16/2010 9:26:00 AM The Columbus Police Department continues to be on the lookout for Kenneth Macon, who remains on the loose at least two weeks after his 48-hour pass from the Walnut Grove Transitional Center in Leake County expired.
Columbus fugitive still on the loose 2/15/2010 11:27:00 AM Even after the Columbus Police Department encouraged Kenneth Macon to turn himself in over the weekend, he remains on the loose, according to CPD Chief Joseph St. John.
St. John said officers are continuing to be on the lookout.
Columbus fugitive still on the loose 2/15/2010 11:27:00 AM Even after the Columbus Police Department encouraged Kenneth Macon to turn himself in over the weekend, he remains on the loose, according to CPD Chief Joseph St. John.
St. John said officers are continuing to be on the lookout.
Police to convict: Turn yourself in 2/12/2010 11:26:00 AM No new leads have developed for the Columbus Police Department in their pursuit of Kenneth Macon, who is considered as a person of interest in an attack and robbery on Monday that sent a Columbus couple to the hospital.
Fugitive suspected in robbery has long rap sheet 2/11/2010 10:16:00 AM Kenneth Macon, the “person of interest” in the attack of a Columbus couple Monday, and suspected in an armed robbery last week, has had his share of run-ins with the law.
Starkville assistant police chief retires 2/11/2010 10:05:00 AM STARKVILLE — As John Outlaw relaxed in the living room of his home Wednesday afternoon on Laurel Hill Road, he smiled when looking back at his 31 years of law enforcement experience.
Parolee still at large after attack 2/10/2010 10:51:00 AM Columbus police continue to be on the lookout for Kenneth Macon, who is considered as a person of interest in an attack and robbery on Monday that sent a Columbus couple to the hospital.
Couple attacked with knife, hammer in home; suspect could be escaped inmate 2/8/2010 3:34:00 PM A Columbus couple was stabbed and attacked with a hammer by a man they found inside their home Monday, and a Lowndes County parolee who is at large after skipping out on a 48-hour pass may be connected, police said.
Rob Hardy: "One Night of Madness" 2/5/2010 12:07:00 PM The unpleasant history of racism in Mississippi through the 1950s has plenty of familiar stories of black people persecuted and white people allowed to persecute because that was just the way things were done back then.
Rob Hardy: Naming Nature 2/5/2010 12:07:00 PM Humans try to identify and organize things. It’s a big step to larger understanding, and of course it is essential in biology.
January report: CPD fields disturbance, theft calls 2/5/2010 11:28:00 AM The Columbus Police Department fielded 173 calls in January, as the department put emphasis on disturbance and stolen-property calls, officials said.
Lowndes County phasing out state inmate program 2/5/2010 11:28:00 AM Come April 1, inmates of the state of Mississippi will no longer be housed in the Lowndes County Adult Detention Center as part of a cost-cutting measure by the Mississippi Legislature.
Worker theft: It’s usually one you least suspect 2/4/2010 9:54:00 AM It often starts with a trusted employee who a small business owner would never suspect. Invoices might be forged, or checks might be stolen. By the time the boss catches on, thousands of dollars in cash or inventory have been stolen.
Deputies break up dog-fighting ring 2/4/2010 9:54:00 AM Clay County Sheriff’s Department deputies have arrested one man and continue searching for at least three more in connection with a dog-fighting operation discovered Sunday night.
Some officials strive for open government 1/30/2010 11:32:00 PM While much of Mississippi government is comfortably shrouded in secrecy, some public officials go out of their way to make meetings and records accessible to the public.
Some officials strive for open government 1/30/2010 11:32:00 PM While much of Mississippi government is comfortably shrouded in secrecy, some public officials go out of their way to make meetings and records accessible to the public.
Citizens can fight crime through Crime Stoppers 1/30/2010 11:32:00 PM Crime prevention takes more than the work of law enforcement officers. Citizens can also do their part through a program called Crime Stoppers.
Citizens can fight crime through Crime Stoppers 1/30/2010 11:32:00 PM Crime prevention takes more than the work of law enforcement officers. Citizens can also do their part through a program called Crime Stoppers.
Child porn case delayed until April 1/27/2010 9:38:00 AM The trial of a Lowndes County man arrested on child pornography charges during an investigation into his missing stepdaughter has been continued.
Crime scene investigation: 100 crimes solved and counting 1/23/2010 10:49:00 PM It was August 2008 when the Columbus Police Department’s crime and forensics lab held its first public tour. The lab is in an unassuming office space in a strip mall near the CPD headquarters on Main Street.
Arrest Report 1-22-10 1/22/2010 10:17:00 AM The following people were arrested on felony charges, according to reports released from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
Local pastor expands calling to protect, serve 1/18/2010 10:38:00 AM For more than 20 years, the Columbus Police Department has had a chaplain to serve the spiritual needs of its officers, much like a chaplain in the military.
Change, often stormy, marks decade 1/16/2010 9:55:00 PM From triumph to disaster, the area has seen its share of headlines that still have impact.
Change, often stormy, marks decade 1/16/2010 9:55:00 PM From triumph to disaster, the area has seen its share of headlines that still have impact.
Change, often stormy, marks decade 1/16/2010 9:55:00 PM From triumph to disaster, the area has seen its share of headlines that still have impact.
Two Clay County burglaries may be linked 1/15/2010 11:45:00 AM UNA — A pair of armed robbers have struck again in Clay County.
Two black men described as being in their 20s forced their way into a home on Highway 47 in Una Monday night, striking the lone resident over the head with a lamp, binding him with the lamp’s cord and robbing the home.
Holiday season sees fewer violent crimes, burglaries 1/9/2010 7:50:00 PM As 2009 came to a close, Columbus Police Department Chief Joseph St. John said his department dealt mostly with accidents during the holiday season.
Clay County man shot to death 1/4/2010 10:29:00 AM A man was shot to death near his home in western Clay County Saturday night.
Clay County man shot to death 1/4/2010 10:29:00 AM A man was shot to death near his home in western Clay County Saturday night.
Arrest report 1-2-10 1/2/2010 7:33:00 PM The following people were arrested on felony charges, according to reports released from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office.
Second arrest made in West Point shooting 12/31/2009 11:52:00 AM West Point Police have made a second arrest in the Dec. 21 shooting at Kitty Dill Memorial Parkway, according to department officials.
CPD officer suspended; another turns in badge 12/17/2009 10:06:00 AM A longtime Columbus police officer who the department has turned to for interim leadership more than once, has been suspended. And another Columbus Police Department veteran has turned in his badge.
Man to be charged with leash law violation 12/15/2009 9:36:00 AM A Columbus man will be summoned by police to appear in municipal court for allegedly allowing his dogs to roam unleashed on 10th Street North.
West Point may cut health benefits, bonuses 12/9/2009 10:23:00 AM WEST POINT — West Point city employees waiting to see if their benefits will be cut have to wait a little longer.
Discussions on cost-cutting measures yielded no results during Tuesday’s Board of Selectmen meeting. Despite pleas from Mayor Scott Ross to take decisive action, the board voted to table the discussion until a hard copy of available cuts and corresponding savings could be provided to all board members. The board will meet again Friday.
Mother: Dogs should help in search for missing woman 12/8/2009 11:55:00 AM The mother of a Columbus woman missing since Sept. 17 feels the official search for her daughter has ended, but Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office authorities say they’re still looking for Kaila Morris.
Holliman gets life in prison for wife's murder 12/4/2009 2:02:00 PM Brian Holliman of Caledonia, found guilty Friday of the shotgun killing of his wife, professed his love for her in remarks to the court before he was sentenced to life in prison for the crime.
Holliman case in hands of jurors 12/4/2009 10:39:00 AM After four days of testimony, the jury today will get a chance to determine the guilt or innocence of Brian Holliman of Caledonia, whose Thursday request for an acquittal was denied.
Medical examiner: Death was homicide 12/3/2009 11:08:00 AM Though it was reported as a suicide, Laura-Lee Godfrey Holliman’s death was homicide, a medical examiner testified Wednesday.
Officers: Holliman frantic at scene, but no sign of tears after shooting 12/2/2009 10:05:00 AM When officers from the Caledonia Town Marshal and Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Holliman residence after a frantic 911 call on the afternoon of Oct. 25, 2008, they noticed something about Brian Holliman’s demeanor concerning his wife, Laura Lee, who lay dead from a shotgun wound in the couple’s bedroom.
Trial set for man facing child porn charges 12/2/2009 10:05:00 AM ABERDEEN — A Lowndes County man arrested during an investigation into his missing stepdaughter pleaded not guilty to child pornography charges Tuesday in U.S. District Court.
Police focus on downtown during holidays 11/28/2009 9:23:00 PM With holiday shopping in full swing, Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John is focusing officers on the downtown area.
Lowndes County Arrest Report 11/19/2009 11:42:00 AM The following people were arrested on felony charges, according to reports released from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
Citizens to weigh in on smoking ban 11/18/2009 10:03:00 AM The Columbus City Council Tuesday scheduled a public hearing — to be held Nov. 24 at 5 p.m. in the Columbus Municipal Complex — on a proposed city smoking ordinance.
Columbus police arrest second shooting suspect 11/17/2009 10:51:00 AM Investigators with the Criminal Investigation Division of the Columbus Police Department arrested a second suspect Monday evening in connection with a Saturday drive-by shooting at 1110 Seventh Ave. N.
Greta Bryan helps victims, families as they go through emotional court cases 11/9/2009 9:31:00 AM Throughout the recent capital murder trial of Bobby Batiste in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court, family and friends of victim Andreas Galanis sat in a group two rows behind the prosecution’s table, sometimes in tears, other times stoic.
The group sat through graphic testimony and photos of the crime scene; detailed stories of deception and fraud; and even pictures of Galanis’ battered and lifeless body.
Yet, through it all, one woman was by their side, even though she never met Galanis or his family until shortly after the murder.
Police continue search for weekend shooting suspects 11/3/2009 9:34:00 AM The Starkville Police Department was still searching today for two suspects involved in a weekend shooting on North Montgomery Street.
West Point department head cleared of charge 11/3/2009 9:34:00 AM WEST POINT — A not-guilty verdict in the trial of one of West Point’s Water and Light Department heads has sparked allegations of favoritism.
Burglaries continue to plague Columbus 11/2/2009 9:49:00 AM Since focusing and increasing midtown patrols in September, the Columbus Police Department has succeeded in lowering incidents in the most crime-plagued area of the city.
Bobby Batiste sentenced to death 10/31/2009 10:01:00 PM After three hours of deliberation today, an Oktibbeha County jury sentenced 29-year-old Bobby Batiste to death for the capital murder of his rommate last year at 21 Apartments.
Evidence contradicts Batiste’s account of killing 10/30/2009 10:06:00 AM STARKVILLE — Thursday testimony suggests a former Mississippi State University student on trial for capital murder might not have been totally truthful last year in statements to authorities regarding the death of his housemate at 21 Apartments.
Crime Report 10-29-09 10/29/2009 12:48:00 PM The following felony arrests were reported by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation nets arrest of suspected drug dealer 10/29/2009 10:02:00 AM A Columbus man was picked up recently by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office on seven counts of narcotics sales.
Albert Earl Greenlee, 27, of 260 Gregory Road in Columbus, was arrested Sunday during a traffic stop by the LCSO.
Seeking Justice: Murder victim’s family speaks out 10/28/2009 9:45:00 AM The family of Clarence “Big C” Trimble wants a life for a life.
Trimble was robbed and murdered early Saturday morning at his club, Big C’s Game Room, on Stinson Creek Road in Lowndes County. Two Aberdeen men face capital murder charges for the crime.
Witness: Suspects bragged about murder in phone call 10/28/2009 9:45:00 AM The men charged with the murder of a Lowndes County club owner called a friend to brag about the killing afterward, a family member of the victim has said.
Columbus suspect caught in the act 10/27/2009 10:07:00 AM A Columbus man was arrested last week for relieving himself in public.
Dexter Calvin Fulton, 42, 1011 Fourth St. S. in Columbus, was arrested Thursday by the Columbus Police Department on charges of indecent exposure and possession of burglary tools.
Murder suspects face hearing 10/26/2009 9:46:00 AM Two Aberdeen men await an initial appearance in Lowndes County Justice Court on charges of capital murder.
Cedrick Whitley, 23, 20393 Egypt Road in Aberdeen, and Sylvester Johnson, 22, 1407 Cloverdale Place in Aberdeen, are charged with the murder of Clarence Trimble, 50, at Trimble’s club, Big C’s Game Room, on Stinson Creek Road, Saturday.
Aberdeen men charged with Lowndes man’s murder 10/24/2009 11:18:00 PM A Lowndes County man was found shot to death at the club he owns on 538 Stinson Creek Road, of Highway 373, early Saturday morning.
And two Aberdeen men are in jail for the crime.
Rob Hardy: Pat Tillman’s true story told 10/23/2009 2:28:00 PM Everyone who has followed current events even slightly over the past five years knows that football hero and soldier Pat Tillman was killed in Afghanistan, and that the military had trouble telling the truth about his death from rifle fire by his own platoon. Tillman had a remarkable life for one who died at age 27, and in “Where Men Win Glory: The Odyssey of Pat Tillman” (Doubleday), Jon Krakauer has provided the biography that Tillman deserves, vivid and compelling.
Crime Stoppers pays $1,600 for arrests 10/22/2009 11:00:00 AM WEST POINT — Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers assisted in the arrest of eight individuals and helped recover $4,000 worth of stolen property in the last month.
Coroner: Clay County death was homicide 10/21/2009 9:46:00 AM A Forest man’s shooting death in Clay County has been ruled “consistent with a homicide” following provisional autopsy results.
Clay County Coroner Alvin Carter declined further details about the Friday death of Danelle Young, 21, of 285 Hughes Road in Forest, citing an ongoing investigation by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The shooting was initially reported as accidental.
Triplett remains in jail on probation hold 10/20/2009 9:23:00 AM COLUMBUS — Robert Triplett, stepfather of missing Lowndes County woman Kaila Morris, remains in the Lowndes County Adult Detention Center awaiting his hearing for violation of probation.
Wil Colom honored as Champion of Justice 10/18/2009 12:07:00 AM Civil disobedience was a way of life. Freedom songs reverberated, setting the tone for sit-ins and protest marches.
“For a black child in Mississippi, the events of the 1960s seemed to be the dawning of a new day ...”
Business Crime Prevention Tips 10/15/2009 10:25:00 AM Most criminals are opportunists. But when it comes to crimes against businesses, the criminals usally aren’t the ones creating the opportunities.
Arrest Report 10/15/09 10/15/2009 9:56:00 AM The following felony arrests were reported by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
Chief: Despite assaults, downtown still safe 10/14/2009 9:38:00 AM Safety in downtown Columbus can be as simple as paying attention.
Responding to a string of reported robberies and assaults over recent weeks in the downtown area, Columbus Police Chief Joseph St. John says downtown is not a dangerous area, but crime can occur anywhere.
Therefore, St. John is encouraging pedestrians and shoppers to keep their eyes and ears open.
Program pairs tutors, students 10/13/2009 10:12:00 AM Last spring, Courtland Petty, 7, was struggling with math.
When she was in school, Leslie Watkins also had trouble understanding math problems.
Four cases of bad judgment 10/13/2009 10:07:00 AM The decision by a sitting town mayor, a former state representative and two Lowndes County legislators to join a petition for a change of venue in a local capital murder case is a cautionary tale about the intersection of justice and politics. It is also a flagrant example of bad judgment by four men who should know better.
Crime Report 10/13/09 10/13/2009 10:06:00 AM The following crimes were reported by the Columbus Police Department:
Local politicians ask judge to move Holliman murder trial out of county 10/9/2009 3:02:00 PM Four prominent Lowndes County public figures have signed affidavits filed in Circuit Court requesting the relocation of Brian Holliman’s murder trial.
Holliman is charged with the shooting death of his wife, Laura Holliman, Oct. 25, 2008, at the couple’s Caledonia home.
Five arrested on meth-manufacturing charges 10/8/2009 10:09:00 AM Three Columbus residents were arrested Monday by the Columbus Metro Narcotics unit for conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamines.
City Council upholds officer suspension 10/7/2009 10:04:00 AM The Columbus City Council Tuesday voted to uphold the suspension of a Columbus police officer, who is retiring this month.
Lt. Keith Worshaim, a shift commander and veteran of the Columbus Police Department, appealed a 12-day suspension levied by CPD Chief Joseph St. John.
West Point clerk: I don’t want to resign after all 10/7/2009 10:04:00 AM WEST POINT — West Point City Clerk Robin Perry continues to await an opportunity to appear before the city’s Board of Selectmen to discuss the withdrawal of his letter of resignation in September.
The city clerk position is one of two key West Point jobs in limbo as the board decides how to handle the pending opening at clerk and the continuing search for a new police chief to replace Steve Bingham, whom the board fired Aug. 11.
Missing woman’s stepfather has history of sex crimes 10/6/2009 9:18:00 AM COLUMBUS — A Lowndes County man arrested Saturday on charges of possessing child pornography had past convictions of sex crimes in Mississippi and Louisiana.
Dozens search, pray for missing woman 10/3/2009 6:15:00 PM Volunteer search parties have “exhausted all avenues” in an effort to locate Kaila Morris, 21, said Morris’ uncle, Leslie Williamson. A part-time Mississippi State University student and employee of The Cookie Store in Leigh Mall, Morris has been missing since Sept. 17.
Dozens search, pray for missing woman 10/3/2009 6:15:00 PM Volunteer search parties have “exhausted all avenues” in an effort to locate Kaila Morris, 21, said Morris’ uncle, Leslie Williamson. A part-time Mississippi State University student and employee of The Cookie Store in Leigh Mall, Morris has been missing since Sept. 17.
E-mail scam targets arts council 9/30/2009 9:40:00 AM STARKVILLE — Candy Crecink went to work Tuesday morning expecting it to be just like any other day.
But within minutes, Crecink was on the phone with the Federal Bureau of Investigation to report a suspected Internet crime.
CPD officer appeals suspension 9/29/2009 9:46:00 AM A Columbus police officer headed into retirement next month is appealing a 12-day suspension.
Burns Bottom dispute continues to sizzle 9/26/2009 9:26:00 PM Lowndes County’s District 5 Supervisor Leroy Brooks Thursday convened a meeting of Columbus’ African-American elected officials, ministers and community leaders to inform them of the city and county’s recent efforts to locate a soccer complex in the Burns Bottom area of downtown Columbus and to discuss needed improvements to the city’s neighborhood parks.
Crime Stoppers tip leads to embezzlement arrest 9/25/2009 10:09:00 AM A tip to Crime Stoppers has landed a Columbus man in jail.
Lackendrick Andrew Bankhead, 29, of 15 Pandora Drive in Columbus, was arrested Tuesday by the Columbus Police Department on one count of embezzlement.
Lowndes woman still missing 9/23/2009 9:50:00 AM The disappearance of a Lowndes County woman missing since Thursday remains a mystery.
Riding along with the CPD 9/22/2009 9:16:00 AM A police officer’s shift can be fraught with excitement, or numbingly routine. Most often, there is an unpredictable mix of both, as it was for Columbus Police Department Officer Rick Higgins last Saturday evening.
Crime Report 9-21-09 9/21/2009 10:07:00 AM The following crimes and felony arrests were reported by the Columbus Police Department:
Alabama girl, 13, dies in Lowndes County crash 9/19/2009 9:52:00 PM A 13-year-old Vernon, Ala. girl was killed Saturday morning in a one-vehicle accident on Highway 12 in Lowndes County.
Columbus police respond to 3,177 calls in August 9/18/2009 11:30:00 AM E-911 and the Columbus Police Department received a total of 3,177 calls for service in August, according to reports released by the CPD.
In July, the Columbus Police Department had 2,919 calls for service, many of which — 513 — were traffic related.
Police still searching for armed robber 9/16/2009 9:54:00 AM Starkville police Tuesday were still searching for a man they say tried to rob Starkville Ready Cash this weekend, but fled the scene after an employee pulled a gun and fired at him.
Roses and thorns 9/13/09 9/12/2009 9:02:00 PM A rose to Brenda Caradine and the host of volunteers who put together another extraordinary array of events celebrating the life of Columbus’ most famous native son, Tennessee Williams.
Columbus salutes its emergency responders 9/10/2009 9:45:00 AM Columbus and Lowndes County emergency responders are invited to the Columbus Municipal Complex Friday for barbecue and a goody bag.
Betty Stone: What have we come to? 9/5/2009 8:20:00 PM Recently I was talking with a friend from Jackson who told me she was keeping her pre-school grandson. He had taken her cell phone when he went outside to play. When she got after him about it, he protested that he had to have it in order to call for help if he got kidnapped.
Stop the self-destruction 9/2/2009 11:05:00 AM As I perused the sullen hallways of the county judiciary recently, it was impossible to be impervious to the warehoused bodies of young men and women, black and white, and Hispanics alike.
Police use crime stats to focus efforts 9/2/2009 10:56:00 AM As part of a new strategy, the Columbus Police Department recently released crime statistics for the month of July.
Council set to vote on Sunday alcohol 9/1/2009 10:34:00 AM It could aid Columbus’ economy or destroy the city’s future, nearly 40 speakers said Monday night of a proposed plan to extend the Friendly City’s alcoholic beverage sale hours.
Against Sunday alcohol sales 8/31/2009 3:17:00 PM It is very appropriate that the State of Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol has a great push on during the Aug. 15 to Sept. 15 period to help stop drinking and driving.
Plan could create Beale Street atmosphere 8/30/2009 12:17:00 AM STARKVILLE — Business owners in downtown Starkville have grown increasingly alarmed over the past few years as crowds during Mississippi State University football weekends have spilled into the streets.
Holliman murder case continued 8/25/2009 10:54:00 AM A Caledonia man charged with shooting and killing his wife last year will wait a few more months until his trial in the Lowndes County Circuit Court.
Porter pleads guilty to murdering wife in 2007 8/24/2009 4:59:00 PM Will Porter Jr. decided not to go to trial and it may have saved his life. Facing a possible death sentence if convicted of killing his ex-wife, Mary Michelle Porter, with a shotgun on Aug. 19, 2007, Porter pled guilty to the crime Friday in Lowndes County Circuit Court and was sentenced Monday to life in prison without the possibility of parole. His trial had been scheduled for today.
Aberdeen doctor charged in wife’s shooting death 8/21/2009 11:04:00 AM ABERDEEN — An Aberdeen man was charged Thursday in the shooting death of his wife in the couple’s home on Oct. 15, 2007.
Dr. David W. Parvin Jr., of 50059 Deer Road in Aberdeen, was charged after the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation concluded a computer analysis of the crime scene, according to Monroe County Sheriff Andy Hood.
Suspect arrested for ’08 sexual assault 8/20/2009 10:06:00 AM STARKVILLE — An 18-year-old Starkville man remained in jail Tuesday afternoon after he was arrested this week on a charge of sexual battery against a 12-year-old girl.
Starkville approves Sunday alcohol sales 8/19/2009 7:12:00 AM Touting messages of progress and development, the Starkville Board of Aldermen Tuesday took another step toward allowing Sunday alcohol sales.
Chief: CPD starting ‘from beginning’ 8/11/2009 10:23:00 AM Several recent staffing rotations at the Columbus Police Department may bring the station one step closer to receiving state accreditation, according to CPD Chief Joseph St. John.
West Point man accused of growing marijuana 8/7/2009 12:06:00 PM A West Point man who authorities say was growing marijuana behind his house was arrested Tuesday on drug and weapons charges.
Ex-game warden sentenced to 60 years for fatal DUI crash 8/4/2009 10:36:00 AM STARKVILLE — The night began like any other. A group of friends were hanging out at Rick’s Cafe American in Starkville and agreed to meet again later for a cruise around the back roads of southern Oktibbeha County.
Clean-up campaign begins 8/3/2009 9:59:00 AM STARKVILLE — This month, the Greater Starkville Development Partnership wants each city dweller to beautify his or her corner of the world.
Joseph St. John: National Night Out on Tuesday 8/3/2009 9:59:00 AM Burglaries, larceny, robberies, violent crime - we read about it every day. Our media is full of the images and sounds of society ills. It is the lead story daily. It has often been said, “If it bleeds, it leads.” Crime is always on the top of everyone’s concerns and is often the topic of community debate.
Suspicious characters and litter 8/1/2009 10:36:00 PM A Ward 5 meeting was held last week. All the seats were taken and several people standing. Our police chief and several other police officers were there to give talks and answer questions about crime in Columbus. The briefings were a little long for those who had to stand but were informative and worth the time and effort. Many questions were answered and good advice given on some uncertainties about crime in our city. Everyone was given a chance to ask questions.
In defense of the defenseless 7/28/2009 10:09:00 AM We are writing to you to enlist your support and participation in an effort that we believe is vital to the future welfare of many defenseless animals in Lowndes County.
Birney Imes: Words, plain and fancy 7/25/2009 9:25:00 PM As a rule, I try to get going on this column by Friday night. I can sleep easier knowing it’s at least underway. This past Friday, though, I succumbed to the siren call of a rented movie and went to bed without having written a word.
‘$7 million fiasco’ 7/25/2009 8:57:00 PM Given the abundance of national news about health care reform, Mississippians may have failed to notice Governor Barbour’s “reform” in their own backyard. He vetoed $7 million that the state would normally provide to community mental health centers to match federal Medicaid funds.
Adele Elliott: Tribute 7/25/2009 8:57:00 PM Denizens of large cities love to boast about the cultural events, performances and limitless entertainment available to them. In some ways they are right. However, it seems to me that very few take advantage of this wealth of artistic opportunity. Most people just stay home, in front of the “boob tube,” in a sort of semi-catatonic state.
Road concerns dominate Ward 6 community meeting 7/24/2009 12:04:00 PM Drainage issues, road concerns, crime and garbage collection issues dominated discussion Thursday night during Columbus Ward 6 Councilman Bill Gavin’s first ward meeting.
MSU: Purse snatching claim false 7/24/2009 10:20:00 AM A Mississippi State University student who reported to police that an assailant snatched her purse Sunday evening is now being charged with filing a false report, according to a statement released by the university.
MSU: Purse snatching claim false 7/24/2009 10:20:00 AM A Mississippi State University student who reported to police that an assailant snatched her purse Sunday evening is now being charged with filing a false report, according to a statement released by the university.
Sunday alcohol supporters, opponents dig in 7/22/2009 10:59:00 AM The latest debate over Sunday alcohol sales heated up Tuesday in Starkville.
Newly elected Alderman Jeremiah Dumas brought the issue to the table when, during a marathon meeting in City Hall, he and his fellow aldermen agreed to hold two public hearings next month to discuss the issue. The board is considering amendments to the city’s code of ordinances which would allow alcohol sales seven days a week.
‘$7 million fiasco’ 7/22/2009 10:47:00 AM Given the abundance of national news about health care reform, Mississippians may have failed to notice Governor Barbour’s “reform” in their own backyard. He vetoed $7 million that the state would normally provide to community mental health centers to match federal Medicaid funds.
Chief: System would improve crime fighting 7/22/2009 10:37:00 AM The Columbus Police Department will be using an increase in traffic and parking fines to fund a software-based crime information program for officers and city residents, CPD Chief Joseph St. John announced during a Tuesday City Council meeting.
Brother, sister arrested for fight 7/17/2009 STARKVILLE — A case of domestic violence between siblings appeared among the crimes on the books Thursday at the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office.
Raid yields pot, cash 7/16/2009 STARKVILLE — An eight-month investigation into marijuana trafficking led city and county officials to conduct a raid and arrest four people Friday.
Raid yields pot, cash 7/16/2009 STARKVILLE — An eight-month investigation into marijuana trafficking led city and county officials to conduct a raid and arrest four people Friday.
Adele Elliott: Love thy neighbor 7/11/2009 Our backyard garden is thriving, in spite of the triple-digit heat index. The bounty of plump cucumbers is just beginning to dwindle. The last few appeared curled into fanciful flourishes, fat feather-ish shapes, looking like something that would adorn the hat of a woodland gnome.
Rob Hardy: Ensuring interest by condemnation 7/7/2009 Nowadays you can get just about any sort of pornography you want with a few clicks of the mouse, and much of it is free. Before that, New York City, especially Times Square, was known as the headquarters for porn movies, and when porn was available only in print media, New York’s Nassau Street in lower Manhattan (close to City Hall) was its hub.
Crime, quality of life on minds of Ward 5 residents 6/30/2009 City appearance, crime and talk of the area’s upcoming sportsplex project dominated discussions Monday night during Ward 5 Columbus City Councilman-elect Kabir Karriem’s first community meeting.
During the nearly hour-and-a-half meeting, which drew about 20 Ward 5 residents to the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library, several area citizens shared their concerns on many issues they believe are plaguing the central-city ward.
West Point man arrested in more than five-year-old murder case 6/23/2009 WEST POINT — After more than five years, a Clay County murder once thought to be a cold case may have been solved, according to a report released Monday by the Clay County Sheriff’s Department.
MSU football coach Dan Mullen instills discipline 6/22/2009 STARKVILLE –– Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen is satisfied with how involved the members of his coaching staff are in the lives of the players.
Mullen realizes neither he nor his assistant coaches can watch their players 24 hours a day, and that’s when self-discipline has to kick in.
Mullen tries to instill in the Bulldogs every day the importance of being champions on and off the field.
Arrest Report 6/18/09 6/18/2009 Three local men are in jail today after they were arrested this week on weapons theft charges by the Columbus Police Department.
The CPD Monday arrested Antonio Markell Gregory, 24, of 808 17th St. N in Columbus, and Bryant Reshawn Thompson, 23, of 1513 Fifth Ave. N. in Columbus, and charged each with felony counts of grand larceny. Gregory also was charged with possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
CPD: Summertime breeds rash of burglaries 6/18/2009 Each year, summer brings more free time for Columbus’ youth, more outdoor activities for area residents and a substantial increase in the city’s burglary rate.
Steve Rogers: Burns Bottom ideal location for soccer complex 6/13/2009 Birney, in response to your column in Friday's Dispatch, I did what you suggested. I drove through Burns Bottom Friday night. It was about 10:30 p.m., long after the early evening storms blew through. I got out and walked in the bucolic, rain-cooled night air.
In Columbus, a mayor with a full plate 6/13/2009 From the city’s drainage issues to annexing portions of Lowndes County, newly re-elected Columbus Mayor Robert Smith has “a lot on his plate” for the upcoming term.
Identity theft cases on rise, Columbus police warn 6/12/2009 Tough economic times breed desperation, and desperation frequently leads to crime, according to Columbus Police Department Capt. Fred Shelton.
Local students among Merit Scholarship winners 6/11/2009 A couple of local students are among more than 2,800 winners of National Merit Scholarships financed by colleges and universities.
Council newcomers ready to tackle issues 6/4/2009 Newly elected members of the Columbus City Council are making plans to "tackle the city's issues head-on" after they are sworn into office early next month.
Police still searching for second suspect in wreck 6/3/2009 The Columbus Police Department is seeking public aid in locating and arresting a suspect involved in a May 23 wreck in downtown Columbus.
Police believe 44-year-old Richard Williams, of 1010 Third St. S. in Columbus, fled officers after a Toyota pickup truck he was driving while fleeing from police was struck by a Cadillac at the intersection of Fifth Street and Main Street.
Columbus Drug Court changing lives 5/23/2009 Although it is still “getting off the ground,” the Columbus Drug Court has been making a significant positive impact in the lives of several area drug offenders, according to court officials.
Adele Elliott: Rehabilitation 5/22/2009 The lyrics from a classic Linda Ronstadt song keep rolling through my head. “Heart like a wheel, when you bend it you can’t mend it.”
Man dies in search for teen missing in river 5/21/2009 A 44-year-old Itawamba County Dive Team member lost his life Wednesday during the search for a missing 15-year-old in the Buttahatchie River in Monroe County.
Gangs in Columbus 5/20/2009 Since the beginning of the 1990’s, gang culture has been a way of life for so many young people in Columbus.
Gang members in Columbus have been involved with a number of shootings in this city, as well as in West Point and Starkville.
Court upholds life term for bad check 5/20/2009 JACKSON — The Mississippi Court of Appeals has upheld the life-without-parole sentence imposed in Oktibbeha County on a habitual criminal convicted of buying $106 worth of liquor with a bad check.
Crime Report 5/19/09 5/19/2009 The following incidents were reported by the Columbus Police Department:
MSU grad’s on a mission 5/11/2009 STARKVILLE — The city of Chiang Mai is a sprawling metropolitan area in the northern mountains of Thailand.
The climate is hot and humid, the food is spicy and fresh, and for much of the past year, a former Mississippi State University student has called the region home.
Maben man gets two life terms for murders 5/8/2009 STARKVILLE — A Maben man will spend the rest of his life behind bars after he pleaded guilty Wednesday in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court to the murder of his wife and another woman last summer west of Starkville.
Sandfield festival on Council agenda 5/4/2009 The Columbus City Council Tuesday night likely will approve a motion to block off areas of the Sandfield community, for the 10th annual Sandfield Community Homecoming Festival, slated for Friday and Saturday in the 2400 block of Fourth Avenue South.
Arrest Report: 4-30-09 4/30/2009 The following felony arrests were reported by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
MUW to get $1.5 million for sprinklers 4/26/2009 JACKSON – The governor has approved a $282 million construction-finance bill that includes $1.5 million for Mississippi University for Women to install fire-suppression systems in student dormitories.
Arrest Report: 4-24-08 4/24/2009 The Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office reported the following arrests:
Light turnout for Columbus candidate debate 4/21/2009 Thirteen of the 15 candidates for city elections discussed their qualifications and stances on a variety of issues Monday night at the Columbus Municipal Complex. And only about 30 residents were seated in the Municipal Complex Court — about .16 percent of the city’s 18,497 registered voters.
A miscarriage of decency and justice 4/20/2009 In Friday’s paper, at page 8A top right, there appears a VERY SHORT news item about Paul Minor not being allowed to attend his wife’s funeral. I consider this to be a very important and very disturbing story. I think your paper could have done a much better job of reporting this outrageous miscarriage of decency and justice. To me, it’s a lot more important than one more drug bust or one more laying on of hands on some yute.
78 felons may soon hit county streets 4/1/2009 The Mississippi Department of Corrections is either releasing or considering the release of 78 felons into Lowndes County this month.
Crime Report 3-30 3/30/2009 Police have arrested a juvenile who is believed to have been involved in a shooting last week. March 24 at 6:24 p.m., Carnell Brown of 132 Maple St. reported to the Columbus Police Department a disturbance in progress in which someone was firing a gun at an intersection in front of his house.
MUW to get $1.5M from finance bill 3/28/2009 JACKSON — The House and Senate gave final approval Thursday to a $282 million construction-finance bill that includes borrowing $1.5 million for Mississippi University for Women, but it doesn’t earmark $1.2 million to renovate the Columbus City Hall like the House wanted.
Suspect in MSU kidnap attempt still at large 3/27/2009 STARKVILLE — A suspect in the attempted kidnapping of a Mississippi State University student was still at large Friday, two days after the incident at a Starkville apartment building.
MSU student jumps from moving car to escape kidnapper 3/26/2009 STARKVILLE – A Mississippi State University student was kidnapped Wednesday night from outside her apartment building, but escaped her assailant by jumping from a moving car.
Birney Imes: Good books 3/24/2009 Deborah, a friend visiting from New York who loves most things Southern, invoked the spirit of Eudora Welty Friday evening. At issue was whether she should have a dessert made from chocolate, pecans and vanilla ice cream.
Starkville police: Child predator story ‘a lie’ 3/17/2009 STARKVILLE — A Starkville woman who told police a man approached her last week and threatened her children admitted Monday the story was a hoax.
Spending bill includes millions for Golden Triangle 3/12/2009 The federal omnibus spending bill President Obama approved Wednesday includes about $34 million for research programs at Mississippi State University, $1.4 million to extend the runway at Golden Triangle Regional Airport and $950,000 to improve the Lowndes County road by the Severstal steel mill.
Push to salvage voter ID bill fails 3/10/2009 JACKSON — The Senate failed by one vote Monday to resurrect a voter identification measure killed last week by Republicans who object to other provisions in the bill that would make it easier to vote.
Mullen suspends defensive back Langston 3/5/2009 Mississippi State defensive back Maurice Langston will have to wait a little longer to make a difference on the football field.
MSU football coach Dan Mullen has suspended Langston indefinitely for an undisclosed violation of team rules. The move comes on the heels of Langston’s arrest Saturday night in Hattiesburg.
FBI arrests MUW grad in Stanford scam probe 2/27/2009 FBI agents have arrested the chief investment officer of troubled Stanford Financial Group, accusing Laura Pendergest-Holt of obstructing a Securities and Exchange Commission fraud investigation.
Youth Challenge founder pleads guilty to fraud 2/27/2009 The Columbus man who founded Youth Challenge — a program aimed at keeping at-risk kids out of jail — Thursday pleaded guilty to seven counts of Medicaid fraud and was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison.
Defendant’s ‘choice’ nets 20 years in prison 2/27/2009 James Newell sat silent and motionless in the defendant’s chair as the jury returned its verdict — guilty of manslaughter.
House allocates $1.2M for City Hall renovation 2/26/2009 JACKSON — The House on Wednesday earmarked $1.2 million to renovate Columbus City Hall and $1 million for Mississippi University for Women in a construction-finance bill that would provide more than $80 million for a wide variety of projects.
King cake and other New Orleans specialties reign during Mardi Gras ... and after 2/26/2009 The revelry of New Orleans’ Carnival season isn’t confined to the Big Easy. On Monday, with beads and moon pies flying, Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science students celebrated Mardi Gras with a parade, a musical “second line” and a surfeit of high spirits.
A planned killing, or self-defense? 2/25/2009 It may have been a case of a jealous lover or one man attempting to save his own life, defense and prosecuting attorneys said of an Alabama resident charged with shooting and killing 31-year-old Adrian Boyette.
Senate Oks sales tax increase, but not for all 2/21/2009 JACKSON — The state Senate passed a bill last week to let Jackson increase the sales tax there to improve streets and crime-fighting efforts but declined to give all Mississippi cities and counties that option to raise revenues for their high-priority needs.
Economic decline prompts a local uptick in crime 2/5/2009 As financial times get tighter and businesses reduce their workforces, some Lowndes County residents may be stepping out of their jobs and into illegal professions, according to city and county law enforcement officials.
Gordo man arrested for ex-wife’s murder 2/2/2009 PICKENS COUNTY, Ala. — David Todd Stephens, 32, of Gordo, Ala., was arrested in Pickens County by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation and charged with capital murder in the death of his former wife, Tonya Luann Stephens, 30, of Moundville.
Curious about apathy toward sex offender 2/2/2009 Re: your recent headline “Child porn cases not taken lightly.” Really! What about cases of actual sexual abuse on a child? Last year Gill Dishongh, a ‘prominent’ white businessman and churchgoer of the community received two years for the despicable crime. Admittedly guilty.
Writing by the river 2/1/2009 Local author finds Columbus ‘blessed with a spirit of writers’
State seeks death penalty for Maben murders 1/30/2009 A Maben man accused of brutally killing his wife and another woman last summer now faces a possible death sentence in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court.
‘Vandals’ hit Caledonia neighbors’ mailboxes 1/30/2009 Though law enforcement officials have not seen widespread mailbox damage during the past few weeks, at least one Caledonia resident has had multiple boxes destroyed during the past few days.
Make your voice heard:
