A woman is lucky to be alive in Pulaski County. Officials say she was pulled from Lake Cumberland after jumping from a bridge in Burnside.

Jeff Henderson has the story...
 

Liberty's first Live Music Festival, called Liberty Live, is happening all day Saturday with free music from local artists.

Organizer, Heather Cundiff, with Liberty Tourism gives us a rundown of the schedule...
 

Again, this is a free event, just bring your blankets & lawn chairs & enjoy the show.

https://www.facebook.com/events/510458433654131

The Pulaski County Fiscal Court met in regular session this week.
Jeff Henderson covered the meeting...

VARIOUS STAGES OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION WILL BE CONDUCTED OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS ON SOUTH FORK CREED ROAD, AND ON REYNOLDS CREEK ROAD.

ALSO, BRIDGE INSTALLATION IS UNDERWAY AT 3841 BASTIN CREEK ROAD FOR APPROXIMATELY THE MONTH OF JUNE. ROAD IS CLOSED TO THRU TRAFFIC.

EXPECT DELAYS & DETOURS, ALTERNATE ROUTES ARE RECOMMENDED.

MOTORISTS ARE REMINDED TO PAY ATTENTION TO REDUCED SPEED LIMITS IN ALL WORK ZONES, AND LOOK OUT FOR OUR ROAD WORKERS.

Somerset City Council met this week and took time to recognize some valued first responders for their commitment to our community, and our children.

Jeff Henderson reports...

Sheriff Greg Speck reports the arrest of Michael Ray Hardy, age 47, of Oregon Avenue
in Louisville, Kentucky for drug related offenses.

On May 23, 2022, at 12:15 AM, Deputies were dispatched to the three thousand block of
Grundy Road. While at the residence, Sergeant Branson Patterson, Deputy Ryan Jones, and
Deputy Preston Pitman were told of a Blue Chrysler 300 that was driving back and forth in front
of the residence. The Deputies learned that the last time the vehicle passed the residence;
someone saw a firearm outside of one of the windows of the vehicle. The Deputies observed
what they thought was the same Chrysler 300 Series driving past. Deputy Jones got behind the
car and after contacting 911 Dispatch for information, he stopped the car. Sergeant Patterson
and Deputy Pitman arrived at the traffic stop and got out with Deputy Jones. Trooper Adam
Childress arrived on the scene to assist with the investigation.

During the traffic stop and the follow-up investigation, the Deputies located the following
drug items:

• An unlabeled medication bottle containing a clear plastic baggie with
approximately 10.84 grams of a power-like substance suspected to be Heroin. In
this bottle were also nine (9) yellow pills identified as Clonazepam (Klonopin), an
anti-anxiety drug.
• A clear plastic baggie containing fifteen (15) white pills identified as
Hydrocodone and three (3) grayish pills identified as Oxycodone. These drugs
are Schedule II drugs and are usually prescribed for pain management.
• A clear plastic baggie containing approximately 3.20 grams of white crystal-like
substance suspected to be Methamphetamine.
• An unlabeled medication bottle that contained 132 pills identified as Oxycodone,
ninety-one (91) pills identified as Hydrocodone, and eleven (11) pills identified as
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid). All these drugs are Schedule II and usually
prescribed for pain management.
• A clear glass pipe containing suspected residue.

Deputies also located and seized $14,599 in U.S. currency, a Glock 27 handgun, and a
.223/5.56 Caliber AR Pistol. The vehicle was seized by the Sheriff’s Office and impounded.

All illegal drugs were logged into evidence at the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. The
suspected drug evidence will be submitted to the lab for examination. All monies and weapons
seized were logged into the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office Evidence Room.

Michael Ray Hardy was arrested and charged with the following:
• Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (greater than 2
grams of Heroin but less than 100 grams of Heroin) (Enhancement)
• Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense – (greater than 2
grams of Methamphetamine) (Enhancement)
• Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense – Drug
Unspecified (Enhancement) (Three (3) Counts
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The trafficking charges could be enhanced, if Hardy is convicted, because of the firearms
in close proximity to the illegal drugs.

Michael Hardy was transported to the Pulaski County Detention Center, where he
remains lodged as of this press release.

Michael Hardy was arraigned in Pulaski District Court this morning with a preliminary
hearing set for June 1, 2022.

This investigation continues by Deputies with the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Greg Speck asked that if you have any information about drug activity or any
crime, contact our office at 606-678-5145. You can remain anonymous. If you go to the
Pulaski County Sheriff's Office website at http://www.pulaskisheriff.com/tip.php, it gives you
three options to submit anonymous tips.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that beginning Monday, May 23, crews will begin performing paving operations on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway in Pulaski County.

Work will be performed both east and west bound between the Fishing Creek bridge (mile point 84.4) and the Russell County line (mile point 72). Work will begin as mobile operations to remove pavement markings which is expected to last four weeks. Paving operations will follow requiring the roadway to be reduced to one lane. In addition, the speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling through the area and to pay close attention to signage.

Work is expected to be completed September 30. The starting date and duration of work may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays. Drivers should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra time in reaching their destination.  

For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov or navigate traffic by downloading the free Waze app at www.waze.com. Motorists can also access traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.  

A report of a suspicious person leads to a drug arrest in Russell County over the weekend.

RSPD Chief Tim Pierce says, K-9 Officer Debra Necessary responded to the call of a suspicious man, that was loitering and acting strange. Contact was made with the man and consent to search was given.

37 year old Justin T. Woodall, of Jamestown, was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana.

Mr. Woodall was lodged in the Russell County Jail.

As the Memorial Day holiday approaches, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining law enforcement around the commonwealth for the annual Click It or Ticket campaign, encouraging motorists to buckle up and stay safe.

The federally funded campaign is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort running May 23 – June 5.

“Taking just a few seconds to buckle up can make all the difference between recovering from injuries versus losing your life in the unfortunate event you’re involved in a crash,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “I urge drivers to make the safe choice to wear a seatbelt and ensure child passengers are securely restrained every time they travel.”

According to the KOHS, of the 806 roadway deaths last year in Kentucky, 609 were occupants of motor vehicles. Of those killed in motor vehicle crashes, 333 were either not wearing a seat belt or were not properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat. Twelve of the 609 were children age 9 and under. Four of those twelve were improperly restrained.

“These are not just numbers.  These are people – mothers, fathers, sons, daughters – that never made it home,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Taking two seconds to put on a seat belt is a simple act, yet could be the difference between life and death.”

According to NHTSA, despite the low traffic volume, fatal crashes are three times higher nationwide at nighttime versus daytime.  In Kentucky last year, of the 609 occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes, 302 occurred at night. Of those, 111 were unrestrained.

“Sometimes even the most attentive drivers are involved in a crash caused by other drivers,” said Secretary Gray. “Wearing a seat belt gives you the best chance of surviving a crash.”

To reinforce this message, more than 90 law enforcement agencies throughout Kentucky have participated in the KOHS Click It or Ticket “Local Heroes” initiative. Localized public service announcements (PSAs) feature actual officers, deputies and Troopers in counties with low seat belt usage rates and/or a high number of unrestrained motorist-involved crashes. The PSAs will air during the Click It or Ticket campaign beginning Memorial Day weekend. In areas without a county-specific PSA, statewide versions will air featuring various law enforcement agencies throughout the state. 

“We encourage motorists to make safe choices on the road because it’s the right thing to do, not just because it is the law,” said Secretary Gray. “However, if a life may potentially be saved by writing a ticket, they will do it.”

According to NHTSA, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45 percent for front-seat vehicle occupants and by 60 percent for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants. Properly fastened seat belts contact the strongest parts of the body, such as the chest, hips and shoulders. A seat belt spreads the force of a crash over a wide area of the body, putting less stress on any one part, and allows the body to slow down with the crash, extending the time when the crash forces are felt by the occupant.

Casey County Fiscal Court met in a special session Wednesday.
The Magistrates heard a first reading of the new Budget...

The first reading was approved.

Hinkle Environmental Services was awarded bids for road projects on Reynolds Creek Road, and South Fork Creek Road.
Judge Executive, Randy Dial...
 

Yearly bids were also accepted for goods & services to the County for the Road Department, the Jail, as well as general maintenance for the Judicial Center.

Magistrates also voted to approve a resolution to join a Kentucky Wildlands agreement.

Excess fees from the Sheriff's Department were also accepted...
 

Judge Dial made note of a Waste Tire Event coming up in Casey County...
 

The next meeting of the Casey County Fiscal Court is scheduled for Monday, June 6th.

Liberty City Council met in a special session yesterday.

There were several members of city police & fire departments, as well as citizens, in attendance to discuss the pros and cons of a possible Occupational Tax.

Mayor Steven Brown explained the need for more incoming revenue to combat an aging infrastructure, calling on Police Chief Steven Garrett and members of the City Fire Department to bring awareness of the consequences of cuts to their departments and the rippling effects to businesses and citizens.

No action was taken at yesterday's meeting.
The Council will meet again on Tuesday, May 31st at 5pm at City Hall.

The Casey County Grand Jury has handed down several indictments including:

-Sheila G Coffman, indicted on possession methamphetamine 1st degree/1st offense.

-Patricia B Means, 39 of Liberty, indicted on theft by unlawful taking $10,000 or more but under $1,000,000 & persistent felony offender 2nd degree.

-Mark D Brown, 52 of Hustonville, indicted on trafficking in methamphetamine over 2 grams 1st degree/2nd or greater offense, theft of identity, persistent felony offender 1st degree, possession of drug unspecified 1st degree/1st offense, possession of opiates - oxycodone 1st degree/1st offense, possession of a controlled substance 3rd degree, no OL, drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no insurance 1st offense, failure to produce insurance card, inadequate silencer – muffler, & failure to wear seat belts.

-Jody K Padgett, 45 of Liberty, indicted on assault 3rd degree – police officer, 3 counts persistent felony offender 1st degree, assault 3rd degree – EMS/Fire/Rescue, wanton endangerment 1st degree – police officer, possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/2nd offense, fleeing/evading police 2nd degree – on foot, menacing, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct 2nd degree, & public intoxication.

-Chad D Atwood, 43 of Liberty, indicted on tampering with physical evidence & persistent felony offender 1st degree.

-John E Cummings, 39 of Somerset, indicted on theft by unlawful taking under $10,000 & persistent felony offender 1st degree.

-Clay A Lee, 24 of Liberty, indicted on criminal mischief 1st degree.

-Richard E Brown, 53 of Liberty, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/3rd or subsequent offense, possession of a controlled substance 2nd degree, & possession of marijuana.

-Jonathan L Luttrell, 34 of Liberty, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/3rd or subsequent offense, drug paraphernalia, & possession of marijuana.

-Jacob D Bernard, 26 of Columbia, indicted on trafficking in carfentanil/fentanyl derivatives schedule II 1st degree/1st offense, tampering with physical evidence, trafficking in marijuana less than 8 oz 1st offense, operating on a suspended/revoked OL, no insurance, failure to produce insurance card, & no registration receipt/plate.

-James G Tapscott, 48 of Hustonville, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/1st offense, drug paraphernalia, & resisting arrest.

-Brandon T Shoaf, 35 of Liberty, indicted on wanton endangerment 1st degree & possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

-Timothy R Eads, 41 of Russell Springs, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/3rd or subsequent offense, possession of a controlled substance 3rd degree, & drug paraphernalia.

-Samantha L Robbins, 33 of Liberty, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree/3rd or greater offense & drug paraphernalia.

-Michael C Durham, 47 of Yosemite, indicted on trafficking in methamphetamine over 2 grams 1st degree/1st offense, possession of a controlled substance 1st degree, drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, rear license not illuminated, & failure to wear seat belts.

-Randall A Douglas, 44 of Liberty, indicted on possession of methamphetamine 1st degree & drug paraphernalia.

-Katherina R Chapman, 24 of Liberty, indicted on assault 2nd degree & persistent felony offender 1st degree.

-Dennis A Procario AKA Dennie A Procario, 37 of Liberty, indicted on failure to comply with sex offender registration 2nd or greater offense, failure to comply with sex offender – school restrictions, & criminal abuse 1st degree.

-Kabrina Nester, 28 of Liberty, indicted on criminal abuse 1st degree.

We remind our listeners an indictment is only a legal accusation, not an indicator of guilt.

Early voting is going on today and Saturday from 7-5 at the Central Ky Ag Expo Center.
Here's Casey County Clerk, Casey Davis...

Polls will be closed Sunday and Monday, then re-open on Election Day from 6am-6pm, again the only voting location in Casey County is at the Pork Producer's Building at the Ag Center.

In-person early voting officially starts today. 

Jeff Henderson reports on new voting locations in Pulaski County...

The Liberty City Council met in special session Tuesday.

The Council approved a second reading of an ordinance related to an electric franchise between the city and Kentucky Utilities.

The Council appointed a new council member to fill the unexpired term of Andie Lawhorn, who resigned. That new council member is Chase Dial.

The council heard a resolution to support Kentucky Wildlands. Mayor Steven Brown...
 

That resolution was approved.

The council also considered a resolution related to Land and Water grant.
Heather Cundiff is the Director for Liberty Tourism...
 

The resolution was approved.

There was a discussion of reinstating an Ethics Board. The council will appoint three residents of the City of Liberty to that board at a future meeting.

There was a discussion concerning delinquent utility bills. Councilman Richard Montgomery had requested a print out of the delinquent bills, which at that time totaled over $15,000. Many of those accounts were over 45 days late. Since that time some of those accounts have been caught up.

There was also a discussion concerning shared water meters in the city which is causing some billing fluctuations. Councilman Richard Montgomery pointed out that the city is losing revenue due to combined water meters for businesses with residences, as well as multi unit rental units and apartments. No action was taken.

The next regular meeting of the Liberty City Council is scheduled for June 13th.

Today (Wednesday) is the last day for "Excused" voting at the County Clerk's Office.

Early voting starts tomorrow (Thursday) at the Central Ky Ag Expo Center.

Here's Casey County Clerk, Casey Davis...
 

Liberty City Council will host a special called meeting today.

Being a special meeting, the Council can only discuss items on the agenda, which includes:

• 2nd reading of an Ordinance related to Electric Franchise
• Appoint a new Council Member
• Resolution related to Ky Wetlands
• Resolution related to Land & Water Grant
• Discussion of Ethics Board
• Delinquent Utility Bills
• Shared Water Meters

The meeting starts at 5pm at City Hall & is open to the public.

The Casey County Board of Education met in regular session last night.

At the one year mark, Superintendent Barry Lee received high marks from his mentors, and the Board members...
 

The next regular meeting of the Casey County School Board is scheduled for Monday, June 13th.

On Monday May 16, and Tuesday May 17, 2022 at 9:30 am, Kentucky State Police Post 11 will be placing a wreaths at the grave sites of Trooper Elmer Mobley JR., and Trooper John Hutchinson, to honor their service to the Commonwealth. Trooper John Hutchinson will be on May 16 and Trooper Elmer Mobley will be on the 17.

 Trooper Elmer Mobley, JR, age 33, was fatally injured May 28, 1964, in an automobile accident while responding to a call for assistance in Pike County. Trooper Cecil W. Uzzle, who was accompanying Trooper Mobley, was also killed in the accident when their vehicle struck large rocks that had fallen in the roadway and was hidden by heavy rain and dense fog.

Trooper Mobley was   assigned to Post 9 Pikeville and had served with the Kentucky State Police as a Trooper for four-and –a half years. Trooper Mobley is buried in the Oneida Settlement School Cemetery in Clay County, Ky. In honor of his service and sacrifice, the Wild Cat Creek Bridge at mile marker 15.589, on Kentucky Highway 11 in Clay County, has been designated the “Trooper Elmer Mobley Memorial Bridge”.

Trooper John Wayne Hutchinson, age 29, was fatally shot June 4, 1975, while making an arrest of a drunk driver in McCreary County. Trooper Hutchins was assigned to Post 11 London and had served with the Kentucky State Police for two years. Trooper Hutchinson is buried at Elk Springs Cemetery in Wayne County, Ky. In honor of his service and sacrifice, KY 90 in Wayne County has been designated the Trooper John W. Hutchinson Memorial Highway.

In commemoration of National Police Officers Memorial Week, The Kentucky State Police Post 11 London will honor fallen Troopers on Monday and Tuesday May 16, and 17 2022. KSP Post 11 will do a wreath presention at the burial site of each fallen Trooper. Friends, family, and co-workers of the fallen Troopers are welcome to attend.

***UPDATE***

On 5/9/2022 Detective Rob Oney, received information on the whereabouts of the stolen John Deere side by side.

Det. Oney along with Chief Deputy Willie Skeens of Garrard County, located the John Deere on North Flatwoods in Garrard County. The item was returned to the owner.

Further investigation found two male subjects had the side by side. The two male subjects had left the scene prior to law enforcement's arrival, warrants will be issued.

.....................................................

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating a stolen ATV.

A John Deere "Gator" was reported stolen in the early morning hours Sunday, from the Preachersville area in Crab Orchard.

Anyone with information about this theft is asked to contact Detective Rob Oney with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Department at 606-365-2696.

In recognition of May as Motorcycle and Bike Safety Awareness Month, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in reminding all road users to work together to help prevent crashes, injuries and deaths on Kentucky roadways. 

“We’re entering the warmer months and that typically means more motorcycles and bicycles on our roadways,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Safety is a mutual responsibility and we encourage all road users to do their part in making sure everyone makes it to their destination safely – every trip, every time.”

A motorcycle or bicycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any motor vehicle; however, as one of the smallest vehicles on the road, a motorcycle or bicycle may be in a vehicle’s blind spots.

“We’re asking motorists to take simple yet important actions when behind the wheel,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Taking the extra step of looking twice at intersections and before changing lanes or making turns could be the difference between life and death for a motorcyclist or bicyclist.”

In 2021 there were 1,490 crashes involving motorcycles in Kentucky, resulting in 1,085 injuries and 99 deaths (88 motorcyclists).  Of those crashes, 811 involved a motorcycle and at least one other vehicle.  Bicyclists were involved in 325 crashes resulting in 239 injuries and 9 deaths. Of those crashes, 320 involved at least one other vehicle.

“All road users share the same rights and responsibilities designed to keep our transportation system equitable and safe," said Secretary Gray. "Our Cabinet is committed to continuing our efforts to improve infrastructure and accessibility for everyone, and we ask that we all do our part to obey the rules of the road.”

The KOHS offers the following tips for drivers:

• Put the phone down and pay attention. Driving while distracted increases risk for all road users;
• Perform a regular visual check by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or exiting a lane of traffic, and at intersections;
• Use a turn signal before changing lanes or merging with traffic to alert others of your intentions;
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a mo­torcycle.  Motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed;
• Obey the speed limit. Driving at the posted limit allows you to see, identify and react to possible obstacles;
• Drive sober. Alcohol and drugs affect judgment, balance and reaction time. Always make a plan for a safe ride home;
• Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt gives you the best protection against injury and death;
• Allow at least a three-second following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you;
• Do not use designated bike lanes for parking, passing or turning; and
• Pass to the left of a bicycle, allowing at least three feet clearance. 

The KOHS offers the following tips for motorcyclists:

• Wear a DOT-compliant helmet;
• Use turn signals for every turn or lane change, and combine with hand signals;
• Wear brightly colored protective gear and use reflective tape and stickers to increase visibility;
• Position in the lane where most visible to other drivers;
• Pay attention by avoiding any action that takes your eyes, your ears or your mind off the road and traffic;
• Obey the speed limit. Driving at the posted limit allows you to see, identify and react to possible obstacles;
• Ride sober. Alcohol and/or drugs can impair your judgment, coordination and reaction time; and
• Take a rider training course. Find information at www.msf-usa.org  

The KOHS offers the following tips for bicyclists:

• Wear a properly-fitted helmet that meets that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission standards;
• Use hand signals when changing lanes or turning;
• Wear brightly colored protective gear and use reflective tape and stickers to increase visibility;
• Pay attention by avoiding any action that takes your eyes, your ears or your mind off the road and traffic;
• Scan ahead for possible obstacles in your path, such as parked cars or cars pulling out or into parking spaces or driveways;
• Ride in the same direction as traffic;
• Check your equipment before riding. Make sure your brakes are working and tires are properly inflated;
• Never ride impaired. Alcohol and/or drugs can impair your judgment, coordination and reaction time.

The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Electronic Crime Branch arrested Brandon P. Hendrickson, 27, on a charge related to child sexual abuse material.

Mr. Hendrickson was arrested as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation. The KSP Electronic Crime Branch began the investigation after discovering the suspect uploading images of child sexual exploitation online.  

Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and taken to KSP’s digital forensic laboratory for examination. The investigation is ongoing.

Mr. Hendrickson is currently charged with one count of distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor over 12. Mr. Hendrickson was lodged in the Boyle County Detention Center.

The Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force is comprised of more than twenty-six local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The mission of the ICAC Task Force, created by the United States Department of Justice and administered by the Kentucky State Police, is to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in developing a response to cyber enticement and child sexual abuse material investigations.

This support encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, prevention and community education. The ICAC program was developed in response to the increasing number of children and teenagers using the internet, the proliferation of child sexual abuse material, and the heightened online activity of predators searching for unsupervised contact with underage victims.

No action at yesterday's special meeting of the Liberty City Council.

The only item on the agenda was to interview potential candidates to fill the seat vacated by Andy Lawhorn, who recently resigned.

Three people showed up to answer questions and share their ideas, Chuck Dorman, Chase Dial, and Adam Elmore.

Councilman Ben Barlow noted that Council-woman, Carla Turner could not attend yesterday, and suggested they postpone the voting until all members were present.

The issue was tabled, and another special meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, May 10th at 5pm. Their next regular meeting was scheduled for Monday, May 9th, that meeting was cancelled.

There have been many changes in our voting procedures over the past few years. Casey County Clerk, Casey Davis dropped by the WKDO studio this week to go over what's ahead, leading up to election day.

In person EXCUSED voting started Wednesday...
 

If you have any questions, call Casey Davis' Office at 606-787-6471.

The Liberty City Council will meet in special session this evening to interview potential candidates for a seat on the Council.

The seat became open after Councilman Andy Lawhorn resigned.

Today's meeting will start at 6pm at Liberty City Hall, and is open to the public.

Thursday has been designated at a National Day of Prayer.

Brother Russell Shafer is the the Liberty Assembly of God Church...
 

The public is highly encouraged to come and participate in prayer for our community and for our Country.

Sheriff Greg Speck reports the arrest of Jonathan Scott Whitaker, age 32, of KY Highway
1003, Somerset, Kentucky, for multiple charges following an attempt to serve warrants on
Whitaker by Sheriff's Office Deputies.

On April 30, 2022, at approximately 11:30 AM, Sergeant Zach Mayfield was answering
an unrelated complaint on KY 1003 that had come into Pulaski County 911 Dispatch. While on
that complaint, Sergeant Mayfield observed Jonathan Whitaker running away. Later that day, at
approximately 3:15 PM, Sergeant Zach Mayfield, Deputies Trent Massey, Kyle Edwards, and
Jay Picard attempted to serve warrants on Jonathan Whitaker at an address on KY 1003 in
eastern Pulaski County.

Deputy Trent Massey located Jonathan Whitaker cowering underneath a mobile home on KY 1003. When Deputy Massey saw Whitaker, he ordered him to show his hands and crawl out from underneath the residence. Whitaker refused numerous commands to come out, so Deputy Massey started under the trailer after him, but Whitaker crawled further away from him. Deputy Massey deployed his taser at Whitaker and crawled underneath the trailer after him. The Deputies later discovered a hole hidden in the floor of the trailer, which allowed Whitaker to crawl through and get under the trailer to hide. Whitaker was placed under arrest and brought out from under the trailer by Deputy Massey.

Deputy Massey initially charged Whitaker with the following:
• Fleeing or Evading Police, 2nd Degree (On Foot)
• Resisting Arrest
 

On March 8, 2022, at 1:53 AM, Deputy Tan Hudson and Sergeant Branson Patterson saw
a red Nissan truck come off KY 1003 and onto KY 192 at a high rate of speed. The driver of the
truck almost lost control and got over into the ditch of the eastbound lane. Deputy Hudson turned
on his emergency equipment to attempt to stop the truck. The driver did not stop and fled at a
high rate of speed. The driver then drove off the main road and took off into a field in the truck
until entering a woodline where he rammed the truck into a tree. He then ran on foot. During the
foot pursuit and in the darkness, Deputy Tan Hudson received a severe injury to his hand and
could not continue in the pursuit. The driver got away from Sergeant Patterson and Deputy
Hudson.

A bag of suspected methamphetamine weighing approximately one (1) gram was found in the truck. Deputy Hudson was able to identify the driver of the truck as Jonathan Scott Whitaker. The truck was impounded due to improper registration and insurance.

Deputy Hudson applied for and received an arrest warrant for Whitaker for the following
charges:

• Fleeing or Evading Police, 2nd Degree (Motor Vehicle)
• Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree (On Foot)

• Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Methamphetamine)
• Reckless Driving
• Improper Display of Registration Plates
• Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance
• No Registration Plates
 

This arrest warrant was served by Deputy Trent Massey on April 30th when Deputies found him cowering underneath the trailer.

Deputy Massey served another warrant on Whitaker for a Parole Violation Warrant. In
this warrant, Jonathan Whitaker was convicted of Burglary, 3rd Degree in Pulaski County Circuit
Court, paroled on March 25, 2020, and had violated that parole.

Jonathan Whitaker was transported to the Pulaski County Detention Center, where he
remains lodged as of this press release.

This investigation continues by Deputy Trent Massey and Deputy Tan Hudson. Also,
Sergeant Zach Mayfield has an investigation into those who helped conceal Whitaker and
obstructed the Deputies from serving the warrants.

Deputy Hudson's injury resulted in him missing eight days of work.

Sheriff Greg Speck asked that if you have any information about drug activity or any
crime, contact our office at 606-678-5145. You can remain anonymous. If you go to the Pulaski
County Sheriff's Office website at http://www.pulaskisheriff.com/tip.php, it gives you three
options to submit anonymous tips.