A New Tazewell man who was added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Top Ten Most Wanted list on Jan. 4 was captured Jan. 28 in Laurel County, Kentucky.

According to a news release from the TBI, Rick James Brock was captured Thursday evening. A tip earlier in the day led officers to Brock’s brother’s residence in London, Kentucky.

Laurel County Sheriff John Root reported in a news release Thursday evening that the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Unit, led by Maj. Rodney Van Zant, arrested a male subject in London who was on Tennessee’s top 10 most wanted list. The arrest occurred at approximately 7:40 p.m. at a residence on East 5th Street in London.

Brock, 51, was wanted by the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office and the TBI for four counts of rape of a child and four counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Information was developed on the fugitive’s whereabouts and Laurel County Sheriff’s Special Response Unit found the wanted fugitive hiding in Mark Rasnick’s residence behind a small refrigerator and panels. Rasnick allegedly told deputies repeatedly that his brother was not at his residence, according to the release.

“We’ve been looking for Brock for some time,” said Claiborne County Sheriff David Ray. “We had information that he had been in Kentucky and Virginia, then that he was in the London area.”

Ray said that several CCSO officers went to Laurel County on Thursday and barely missed Brock. The Laurel County officers eventually located him.

According to the Laurel County release, Tennessee authorities had listed Brock as having a violent criminal history and as armed and dangerous.

When arrested and while being processed at the Laurel County Sheriff’s office, Root stated that Brock allegedly assaulted an officer and then attempted to escape and had to be physically subdued to end the altercation. In addition to the charges already against him, Brock was also charged with resisting arrest; third degree assault with a police officer as victim; and third degree escape.

Rasnick, 45, Brock’s brother who was allegedly hiding him out in his residence, was charged with hindering prosecution or apprehension in the second degree and resisting arrest.

Both subjects were lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.

According to Claiborne Sheriff Ray, CCSO officers were in Laurel County on Friday to determine extradition proceedings for Brock.

Laurel County Sheriff’s Special Response Unit team members included Det. Jason Back, Det. Kevin Berry, Det. James Sizemore and Deputy John Inman, according to Laurel County Sheriff Root. Also involved in Brock’s capture were U.S. Marshals and the Kentucky State Police.

Reach Marisa Anders at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @newsgirl88.

Rick James Brock (Photo courtesy of Laurel Co. Jail)

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_rick-brock-mug.jpgRick James Brock (Photo courtesy of Laurel Co. Jail)

Mark Rasnick (Photo courtesy of Laurel Co. Sheriff’s Office)

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_Mark-Rasnick-Laurel-County-4.jpgMark Rasnick (Photo courtesy of Laurel Co. Sheriff’s Office)

Rick James Brock (Photo courtesy of TBI)

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_rick-james-brock-5.jpgRick James Brock (Photo courtesy of TBI)

A Harrogate, Tennessee man indicted late last year for alleged threats against a Middlesboro church and others was released on bond Jan. 28.

David Brandon Luntsford, 36, was arrested on the charges on Sept. 18. Luntsford was booked into the Bell County Detention Center on Sept. 19 and had remained incarcerated since that time, held on a full cash $25,000 bond.

He made the bond Thursday.

Luntsford was indicted on three counts – second-degree terroristic threatening, third-degree terroristic threatening and harassing communications.

According to earlier reports, Luntsford was arrested after allegedly making threats against a local pastor, church and school on his Facebook page.

According to an earlier press release from the Bell County Sheriff’s Office, Bell County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Dan Tuttle, in cooperation with the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Luntsford in September after a complaint was filed by Pastor William Boyd Bingham of Binghamtown Church and Gateway Christian School. Bingham told authorities that he was alerted about threats made against himself, the welfare of the children of the school, the church and its congregation. The alleged threats had reportedly been posted on social media. Additionally, there were reports of alleged threats made against President Barack Obama and Congress. Bingham contacted Bell County Sheriff Mitchell Williams, who in turn contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Tuttle to investigate the credibility of the threat.

The press release said the FBI contacted the Secret Service and with assistance by the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, made a home visit to Luntsford for questioning. After the visit, the Secret Service determined that they would not press any federal charges against Luntsford, but stated he would be placed on a watch list to monitor his actions.

The press release further stated that after speaking with the county attorney for the legality concerning the threats, Tuttle then contacted the Claiborne sheriff to assist in serving their fugitive from another state (Kentucky) warrant on Luntsford. A search warrant for Luntsford’s laptop, where the threats allegedly originated, was also served. Luntsford waived extradition rights and was brought back to Kentucky on two warrants — second-degree terroristic threatening, a class D felony, and harassing communications, a class B misdemeanor.

According to the Bell County Circuit Court Clerk’s office, the conditions of his release include: No contact with the victims by use of electronic means, social media or the Internet; he must stay at least 500 ft. away from Bingham and his family; he must stay at least 500 ft. away from Binghamtown Church and Gateway Christian School; and no alcohol or drug consumption. Luntsford was released to home incarceration at a residence in Harrogate, Tennessee, which includes electronic monitoring, according to the clerk’s office. He was ordered to not appear in Kentucky except for court hearings, attorney visits or doctor visits.

Luntsford is scheduled to appear next in Bell County Circuit Court on Feb. 15.

Middlesboro Daily News staff contributed to this article. Reach Marisa Anders at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @newsgirl88.

David Brandon Luntsford (Photo courtesy of Bell County Detention Center)

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_Luntsford.jpgDavid Brandon Luntsford (Photo courtesy of Bell County Detention Center)

Hunting game in the wild areas of the county has netted several violations that were recently addressed in Claiborne Sessions Court through plea agreements accepted by Judge Robert Estep.

Jill Claudia Shelton, 41, charged with possession of illegally taken big game, the illegal taking of wildlife and violation of the landowner exemption, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Shelton must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14. Her hunting privileges are suspended for one year. Per the plea agreement, Shelton will have her seized muzzleloader returned to her.

Ferrell Dean Bryant, 76, charged with killing big game with the aid of bait, transporting illegally taken wildlife and possession of illegally taken big game, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Bryant must pay all court costs and fines in full by April 12. The two seized weapons were ordered returned to Bryant.

Dillon Tate Murray, 18, was charged in multiple cases with hunting without a license, killing game during the closed season, shooting from a motor vehicle, hunting from a public roadway, using center fire ammunition, hunting without permission, illegally transporting big game and possession of illegally taken game. Murray was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, he must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14. Murray loses all hunting privileges for one year. His seized rifle was ordered returned to him.

Jan Edward Duane Parish, 19, was charged under multiple cases with hunting without permission, hunting from a public roadway, hunting from a motorized vehicle, hunting without a license, hunting during the closed season and spotlighting game. Parish was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Parish must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14. His hunting privileges are lost for one year.

William Luther Johnson Jr., 42, charged with transporting illegally taken big game, possession of illegally taken big game, hunting from a motorized vehicle and hunting from a public roadway, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Johnson must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14. His hunting privileges are revoked for one year.

Sarah Ann Bolden, 26, charged with spotlighting deer, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Bolden must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14. Her hunting privileges are revoked for one year. Her seized rifle was ordered returned to her.

Danny DeWayne Smith, 58, charged with transporting a loaded firearm, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Smith must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14.

Stevie Ray Teague, 57, charged with transporting a loaded firearm, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Teague must pay all court costs and fines in full by July 14.

Hannah Marie Ayers, 21, charged with hunting from a public roadway, hunting from a motorized vehicle and the violation of the blaze orange law, was sentenced to 90 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Ayers must pay all court costs and fines in full by April 12. She forfeits all seized weapons.

Wiley S. Daniels, 30, charged with hunting from a motor vehicle, was sentenced to 60 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Daniels must pay all court costs and fines in full by March 24. He forfeits all seized weapons to the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency.

Floyd Liford, 73, charged with hunting from a public roadway and shooting from a motorized vehicle, was sentenced to 60 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Liford must pay all court costs and fines in full by March 24. His seized weapon was ordered returned to him.

Shannon Michelle Dison, 36, charged with violation of the blaze orange law, was sentenced to 30 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Dison must pay all court costs and fines in full by Feb. 18.

Joshua L. Thomas, 34, charged with transporting a loaded weapon, has a probation hearing set for April 12. As a condition, Thomas must pay all court costs and fines in full by the day of his hearing. He is eligible for the return of his weapon if all monetary obligations are met by that date.

Matthew Clint Ayers, 23, charged with hunting from a motorized vehicle and hunting from a public roadway, must pay all court costs and fines in full by April 12. Ayers loses his hunting privileges for one year.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) has announced that the following students were placed on the Dean’s List for the Fall semester of 2015. To be placed on the Dean’s List, the student must be a full-time undergraduate and have a 3.5 grade point average for the semester.

Jonna Adkins of New Tazewell; Ashley Arnwine of New Tazewell; Andrew Ayers of Harrogate; Allyson Barnett of Cumberland Gap; Candace Beeler of Speedwell; Sydney Bergren of Harrogate; Morgan Billingsley of Harrogate; Joshua Blevins of New Tazewell; Daphne Blevins Cannon of Harrogate; Mia Blyden of Harrogate; Alyssa Bolden of Tazewell; Jennifer Bowlin of Tazewell; Summer Boyce of Tazewell; Makayla Brashears of Tazewell; Marissa Brashears of Tazewell; Julie Brooks of New Tazewell; Lonnie Cannon of Harrogate; Michael Cavins of Harrogate; Ashlee Creekbaum of Tazewell; Catherine Crumley of Harrogate; Colby Daniels of Harrogate; Miranda Davenport of Harrogate; Laurana Duncan of New Tazewell; Ricky Earl of Harrogate; Daven Ellison of Harrogate; Chelsea Fultz of Harrogate; Megan Gambrel of New Tazewell; Jessica Gibson of Speedwell; Logan Gilbert of Harrogate; Bethany Gilliam of Speedwell; Judy Hagan of Tazewell; Kayla Heckmann of Speedwell; Justin Hendrix of Cumberland Gap; Danielle Hoffeditz of Harrogate; Courtney Hollis of Harrogate; Richard Hoskins of Tazewell; Alicia Jessie of Speedwell; Jeana Jessie of Speedwell; Leigha Jessie of Speedwell; Timothy Jimison of Harrogate; Rebecca Jones of Harrogate; Zakary Lafaver of New Tazewell; Alyssa Laws of Harrogate; Christin Legg of Harrogate; Thomas Long of Speedwell; Laura Mackie of Cumberland Gap; Marissa Mason of Harrogate; Jacob Mayfield of Cumberland Gap; Deanna McLuckie of Harrogate; Megan McMurray of Tazewell; Cayla Miracle of Harrogate; Lindsay Mulhern of Cumberland Gap; Peyton Murin of Harrogate; Hanna Nance of Cumberland Gap; Jessica Napier of Arthur; Teresa Nichols of Tazewell; Hannah Oakes of Tazewell; Reuben Osborne of Harrogate; Chelsea Patterson of Tazewell; Lauren Petrillo of Tazewell; Courtney Ramsey of Tazewell; Dawnisha Riley of Harrogate; Chelsey Sandifur of Tazewell; Julia Satterfield of Harrogate; Kayla Shelby of Harrogate; Michaela Simpson of Harrogate; Jon Slaven of Harrogate; Katelin Slusher of Harrogate; Rachael Spurlock of Harrogate; Vittor Strausz Jardim of Harrogate; Naomi Susong of Tazewell; Matthew Taylor of Harrogate; Emily Welch of Cumberland Gap; Amanda Westmoreland of Speedwell; Brooke Williams of Tazewell.

Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is located in Harrogate. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) received notification that a Middle Tennessee Lawrence County High School senior Tanner Davis was battling a possible terminal illness. One of Tanner’s lifelong dreams has been to be a Tennessee State Trooper.

According to a news release from THP, when THP Colonel Tracy Trott heard about this heart breaking story, he knew he had to help. He knew this was an immediate call to action for THP. Since then troopers worked secretly behind the scenes with Tanner’s mother on the direction of Colonel Trott. After everything was arranged, before a recent basketball game in front of the entire Lawrence County High School and Tanner’s family, Colonel Trott made Tanner’s dream come true. Colonel Trott met Tanner at mid-court and swore him in as an Honorary Tennessee State Trooper.

The following is a statement provided to the THP by Tanner’s mother.

“Tanner Davis was born on June 6, 1997, at Crockett Hospital. Tanner was transported to Vanderbilt Children’s within hours after a quick normal birth due to respiratory issues and a heart murmur. The cardiologist at Vanderbilt informed us that Tanner had a Congenital Heart Defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Critical Aortic Stenosis. He needed a heart catheterization at once. At the young age of 12 hours old, Tanner began his first of many surgery procedures at Vanderbilt.

Finally, after almost nine hours of waiting we were told that the catheterization procedure did not work. We were given two options: Compassionate Care or an open heart procedure called The Norwood. It was explained that the Norwood would not be a cure and that if he was lucky, he would have a total of three open heart surgeries before his 3rd birthday. So at the age of one day old, Tanner went in for the Norwood heart surgery. He was given less than 5 percent survival rate.

Well Tanner made it through the first surgery after 12 long hours. Our stay at Children’s Hospital turned into three months. Over this time Tanner had a massive stroke, would not take a bottle and had a feeding tube placed in his tummy and overcame all odds of survival. His first year of life was filled with lots of ups and downs and hospital stays. However, he took it like a champ and fought through it all.

Over the next 15 years Tanner underwent many other procedures, doctor’s visits and hospital stays. This included two more major open hearts, several heart catheterizations and three eye surgeries. He would also be required to take up to 24 pills a day. During this time, Tanner would never complain or fuss about his situation. He would always have a big smile on face and loving attitude. It was during this time that Tanner became fascinated with law enforcement and the military. He would always say, “When I grow up I want to be a police officer or in the Army.” I would ask him, “Why do you want to be a police officer?” He would say, “Because they are one of the bravest people I know and I want to be like them.” I remember thinking; I want to be like you my son because you are one of the bravest people that I know.”

He would continue to surprise and puzzle all the doctors. Little did we know that almost 16 years later, to the almost exact date, we would be back in almost the same situation again. Tanner slowly started going into heart failure in 2012. His other organs were beginning to shut down. The visits to the doctors started to increase. In December 2012, Tanner started coughing up large amounts of bright red blood. He went back to the hospital December 2012, and was told that his only hope would be a heart transplant and possible a liver transplant if he qualified. Both organs were failing and he was in constant pain. He was in the hospital four times over the next five months coughing up blood and trying to get oxygen to his body. Each time things got a little worse.

Finally, June 10, 2013, Tanner was admitted to Vanderbilt and we were told that he would be there until the doctors decided if he was a candidate for a heart transplant. On June 21, 2013, we were told that Tanner had been approved and was finally on the heart donor list. We were told that it would probably be months, if at all, until he received a heart. Two days later, on June 23, 2013, at 7:35 p.m., while sitting in a hospital room, we received the call that they had Tanner a heart and he would go into surgery at midnight to get this special gift. This was only 48 hours after just being placed on the list.

So our new journey started that day in June again. Tanner would have to stay in Nashville for the next 80 days after his transplant. He would have to go get blood work and tests three times a week during this time. When he finally got to come home, he would still have to make weekly visits to get blood work and tests. He also is required to take anti rejection medicine twice a day for the rest of his life with the fear of rejection at any day. He has had a few minor setbacks, including a paralyzed vocal cord; however he is doing fine as of today. We know the road ahead of us is long and unpredictable but we cannot focus or worry about what might happen. We put all our trust and faith in God’s hands and we will take whatever he has planned for Tanner.”

The THP troopers involved were touched by the event, according to the release.

“Words could not describe the event,” said Trott.

Tanner Davis in his THP uniform.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_trooper-2.jpgTanner Davis in his THP uniform.

Photos courtesy of THP Tanner Davis, left, and THP Colonel Tracy Trott.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_trooper-3.jpgPhotos courtesy of THP Tanner Davis, left, and THP Colonel Tracy Trott.

The THP troopers gathered around Davis at mid-court for his swearing in as an honorary trooper.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/web1_trooper-1.jpgThe THP troopers gathered around Davis at mid-court for his swearing in as an honorary trooper.

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s (TDCI) Division of Consumer Affairs has announced the top 10 complaint categories for 2015 by Tennessee consumers.

In 2015, the Division of Consumer Affairs received more than 4,000 complaints and recovered both services and funds for Tennessee consumers through our mediation process. The Division’s mediation process relies on the voluntary cooperation of both the consumer and the business. In 2014, over 5,099 total complaints were fielded.

“While the number of complaints dipped slightly in 2015, it’s clear there are still every day challenges for Tennessee consumers and businesses,” TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini said. “Consumers should educate themselves as best they can before they buy, and business owners should honor the terms of their arrangement with consumers. During 2016, the Consumer Affairs Division will remain a resource for both consumers and businesses.”

For 2015, here are the top 10 complaint categories, descriptions of each category and number of complaints per category:

– Utilities (This category includes gas service, water service, electricity, landline phone service, all mobile phone service, internet service, and cable. Problems with billing and maintenance were the most common complaints.) Complaints: 383

– Home improvement (This category includes hiring a contractor for services to repair or improve the quality of your home. The most common complaints related to quality of work, incomplete work after receiving payment, and structural damage caused by the contractor.) Complaints: 327

– Debtor/Creditor (This category includes matters related to debt collection companies, payday loans, credit repair companies, and check-cashing services. Consumers complained most that collection agencies often make harassing phone calls or continuously call individuals who do not owe a debt to the company.) Complaints: 293

– Professional services (This category relates to services offered by all licensed professionals working in the State of Tennessee, including hair stylists, massage therapists, nail technicians, and others. Common complaints include the quality of service, charges for service the consumer did not receive, and problems redeeming gift certificates for services offered.) Complaints: 269

– Health services and products (Consumers’ most common complaints include being misquoted for services and receiving medical bills prior to the bills being sent to the consumer’s insurance company.) Complaints: 264

– Landlord/Tenant (This category relates to consumers leasing rental property in the State of Tennessee. The most common complaints related to security deposits and the conditions of the rental property. Many consumers complained about mold.) Complaints: 262

– Timeshares (This category relates to consumers purchasing property under a timesharing agreement. The most common complaints reported high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentation of the contract, and resale scams.) Complaints: 257

– Insurance (This category relates to pet insurance, consumer health insurance, and unlicensed insurance companies. Most consumers complained about policy coverage and claims. All consumer health insurance complaints are referred to the Insurance Division.) Complaints: 213

– Auto Repair (This category refers to companies offering services to repair vehicles. Most consumers report auto repair companies that return vehicles to the consumer in a worse condition than how it was initially given to the company for repairs. These companies often charge more money to repair the vehicle the second time around.) Complaints: 184

– Scams (This category includes telephone scams and imposter scams, all of which were referred to the Federal Trade Commission. Consumers reported various types of scams, including tax scams, sweepstakes scams, tech support scams, government grant scams, credit card scams, money order scams, and more.) Complaints: 181

The Division of Consumer Affairs is dedicated to advocating, educating and protecting Tennessee Consumers. Call 1-800-342-8385 for more details. For more information on the consumer complaint process, visit www.tn.gov/consumer.

The TDCI is charged with protecting the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Its divisions include the Athletic Commission, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Corrections Institute, Emergency Communications Board, Fire Prevention, Insurance, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Peace Officers Standards and Training, Regulatory Boards, Securities and TennCare Oversight.

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (AP) — The handlers of Pennsylvania’s most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, said the furry rodent failed to see his shadow at dawn Tuesday, meaning he “predicted” an early spring.

“Is this current warm weather more than a trend? Per chance this winter has come to an end? There is no shadow to be cast, an early Spring is my forecast!,” read Jeff Lundy, vice president of the Inner Circle of The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club.

Lundy is one of the top hat-wearing group that announces the forecast every year.

A German legend has it that if a furry rodent sees his shadow on Feb. 2, winter will last another six weeks. If not, spring comes early.

The forecast was delivered with temperatures in the low 20s, on a clear day when the high temperature was expected to reach the unseasonably mild mid-40s.

The Inner Circle congratulated the mid-week crowd of about 10,000 revelers, which the group said was one of the largest for a weekday celebration. Many of those in attendance had stayed overnight and partied into the wee hours waiting for the groundhog’s forecast.

Truth be told, Phil’s handlers don’t wait to see if he sees his shadow — which he almost certainly would have Tuesday. Instead, the Inner Circle decide on the forecast ahead of time and announce it on Gobbler’s Knob, a tiny hill near the town for which the groundhog is named, about 65 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.

Records going back to 1887 show Phil has now predicted more winter 102 times while forecasting an early spring just 18 times. There are no records for the remaining years.

Tuesday’s celebration was billed as the 130th forecast by Phil.

In New York, Staten Island Chuck agreed with Phil: An early spring is coming.

The groundhog did not see his shadow as he emerged from his home at the Staten Island Zoo early Tuesday.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio missed this year’s annual Groundhog Day commemoration. The Democrat had gone to Iowa to stump for Hillary Clinton for that state’s caucus.

Traditionally, the city’s mayor attends the festivities. De Blasio dropped the groundhog in 2014, the first year he attended the ceremony as mayor. The groundhog died a few months later.

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Mr. Robert H. Miller age 78 of Middlesboro, KY was born September 6, 1937 went home to be with his heavenly Father on Monday, February 1, 2016. He was a very loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Mr. Miller was a member of the Binghamtown Baptist Church where he took great pride in participating in the church choir. He had a great love for music.

Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his sister Dorothy Mayes.

Left to celebrate his life are his children: Greg Miller, Gary Miller and wife Teresa, Gina Barnett and husband Richard, Julie Ford, grandchildren: Lydia Miller, Bethany Miller, Brittany Miller, Stewart Miller and wife Savannah , Allison Barnett, Andrew Ford and Jessica Ford. Great-grandchildren: Kiersten Witherspoon and Kaden Miller. One sister: Mamie Wright and a special friend Tim Cornelius whom he loved as a son.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, February 3, 2016 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at the Binghmtown Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow at 7:00pm with Dr. William Boyd Bingham officiating at the Binghamtown Baptist Church. Music will be provided by the church choir. Entombment services will be conducted at 11:00am Thursday, February 4, 2016 in the Green Hills Mausoleum. Family and friends will meet at the Mausoleum.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Middlesboro Health and Rehabilitation Facility, Dr. CA Moore and the staff of the Middlesboro ARH Hospital for their love and care for Mr. Miller.

In lieu of flowers they ask that donations be made to the Gateway Christian School in memory of Mr. Miller.

Green Hills Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

www.greenhills-funeralhome.com

With a vote of 12 to nine, the Claiborne County Commission officially gave the green light to the much-discussed and quite controversial project to expand the Claiborne County Jail.

The bulk of the lengthy meeting last week was spent discussing the now estimated $11.5 million expansion and renovation project.

The discussion seemed at times a bit contentious, particularly between Claiborne Sheriff David Ray and county resident Joe Brooks, who are apparently on opposing sides of the expansion fence.

In his address, Brooks said he had spoken to Jim Fowler, director of the Tennessee Marshal’s Office – Eastern District, about the apparent intergovernmental agreement to allow the county to house discretionary prisoners.

According to Brooks, Fowler “stressed” the point that there is no contract and that it is an “inaccurate fact” that there is or ever will be a guaranteed number of discretionary prisoners housed in the Claiborne County Jail.

Brooks said he was told that once the expansion is completed, the addition of 200 beds will net the housing of another 30 inmates, raising the total to just 60 discretionary prisoners.

“He wasn’t going to guarantee that he would give us a hundred prisoners, especially at $76 a day. But, you’re about to hedge your bets on it,” said Brooks.

The soon-completion of the new penitentiary in middle Tennessee should alleviate much of the overcrowding in many of the county jails, he said.

Brooks also pointed to a proposed bill currently being discussed in the General Assembly that, if passed, could move “tens of thousands” of nonviolent drug offenders from jails and into rehabilitation clinics.

“About 90 percent of what you said is untrue,” said Ray, as he began his address. “It was David Ray’s idea to start with 30 prisoners – it wasn’t Washington D.C. – and the local people did not negotiate this agreement. Washington D.C did.

“Let me tell you where you’re so wrong. It is not that they would limit us to 60 people in this jail if we give them 200 more beds. That was never a figure. We could have gotten 60 prisoners, to begin with. We could have gotten 75. It was me who said no, because I didn’t know what we were stepping into. It was me, who agreed to transport those federal prisoners to and from Greenville, Tennessee, and to a federal institution,” said Ray.

He denied ever saying the county would receive $76 per day for housing prisoners. Ray did point to a recent newspaper article stating another county was in line to receive that amount for their discretionary prisoners.

As for the new penitentiary, Ray said he had been told there were enough prisoners from other areas of the state to fill the beds of the new facility by July.

Ray said he had learned at a recent Sheriff’s Association meeting that some 9,000 prisoners currently sitting in county jails are awaiting transfer.

Just think of the windfall this county will get, Ray said, once the jail expansion project is paid.

Ray said he foresees no tax increases within the next ten years, if the expansion project goes forward.

“If I knew it would cost the taxpayers one dime, I’d stand before this (commission board) and say, ‘vote no,’” said Ray.

During the discussion, county mayor Jack Daniels reminded those present of the well-over three years spent sweating over the expansion project. Nashville, Daniels said, gave the county marching orders to make major progress to correct the overcrowding situation.

“I promise you one thing, that when this jail is decertified, the taxpayers will pay the effects,” said Daniels.

Later in the discussion, Brooks questioned the reasoning behind the commission’s apparent increase of the original project cap, set at some $10.2 million. However, there seemed to be no clear response to the question.

When it came time for the official vote, commissioners Zachary Bunch, Juanita Honeycutt, Mike Campbell, Ann Bowling, Steve Mason, Joan Cosby, Dan Longworth, William Jessie, Shawn Peters, David Mundy, James Hatmaker and Dennis Estes voted for the expansion project.

Those voting not to move ahead were commissioners Whitt Shuford, Charlton Vass, Bill Keck, Gary Poore, Nicholas Epperson, Anthony Rowe, Mitchell Cosby, Bill Johnson and Aimee Upton.

Keck was the lone nay vote of those commissioners who also sit on the Jail Committee, officially known as the Claiborne Correctional Partnership Act Committee.

The full commission will address the financial side of this project during its regular monthly meeting in February.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress Commissioner Steve Mason, who is also the chairman of the Jail Committee, explains to his fellow commissioners the resolution to officially move forward with the expansion project.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_Mason-pic-1.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress Commissioner Steve Mason, who is also the chairman of the Jail Committee, explains to his fellow commissioners the resolution to officially move forward with the expansion project.

Countless hours spent pouring over worksheets and diagrams netted the Claiborne Correctional Partnership Act Committee, commonly known as the jail committee, the official resolution cementing plans to expand the Claiborne County Jail.

Now that the county has given its stamp of approval on the project, contractors Bell & Associates can begin the arduous task of effectively doubling the size of the facility.

Jail committee chairman Steve Mason spent a bit of time last week running down the high points of the resolution, prior to the official 12 to nine vote by the full Claiborne Commission in favor of the expansion project.

Mason said the jail committee agreed that alternate two, with an ending price tag of some $11.5 million, would be the best route to go. Included in the total cost is funding for the renovation of the existing jail necessary to accommodate the expansion and the addition of 110 parking spaces.

The base bid of $10,020,000 was originally approved by the commissioners. By going with alternate two, the county agreed to the extra $580,000 for the use of the less laboriously intensive precast pods in place of the masonry brick worked into the original bid. The committee also approved the use of brick-look veneer, at a cost of $152,000. The veneer will cover the top 12 feet of the exterior of the new addition and is expected to make the outside of the jail appear more uniform.

The extra costs bump the construction portion of the project to $10,752,000.

Added to the final project cost is $476,000 in architectural fees and $20,000 for fees owed to the fire marshal. Core drilling is estimated in the project costs at $1,500. A $100,000 control panel and about $150,500 in other equipment rounds out the total $11.5 million jail expansion project costs.

Prior to the commission meeting, Mason distributed handouts that included one explaining the proposed funding. According to the document, 100 federal prisoners are expected to gross the county $2 million. Subtracting the estimated $400,000 it should take to cover the costs of caring for the excess prisoners nets the county about $1.6 million that, according to the handout, will be available to pay on the debt.

By the end of ten years, the document claims some $8.1 million in principal should be paid if $1 million per year in principal and interest payments are consistently made.

Reserve revenue, which is the money left over after the annual bond payments are made, should equal some $6 million by the end of that ten year period. An increase of $10 per 100 inmates, the handout assumes, will total $3.65 million by the end of that same ten years.

The county finance office is considering bond issues with a 17 year amortization.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress Sheriff David Ray urges the Claiborne County Commission to move forward with the jail expansion project.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_Ray-pic.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress Sheriff David Ray urges the Claiborne County Commission to move forward with the jail expansion project.

DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting Area Happenings, Church Events, Reunions or Society items is Thursday at noon. See our website each week for a full listing of local governmental meetings: www.claiborneprogress.net.

Pink Out For Black

The eighth annual Pink Out For Black game for cancer awareness at Claiborne High School was rescheduled due to weather to Feb. 11. Events will begin as early as 5 p.m. with various performances by area schools. In addition, Miss Tennessee 2015 Hannah Robison will be in attendance as well as a Memory Room and other special presentations throughout the evening. Tickets are available for a commemorative Pink Out quilt for $1 each. Shirts are now available at CHS, It’s My Party and Sun Loan for $10 each.

Free Classes

Regional Education Center Ministries in partnership with Southeast Community College will be enrolling students for the following classes: Intro to computers; Selling on eBay; Basic Bookkeeping; Quick Books and GED. The classes are offered free of charge. Enrollment is currently open. Please contact Rhonda at 423-626-6401 or Judy at 423-526-7506 by February 5 to enroll. Contact us by email: regionaleducationcenter@gmail.com. Website: recministries.net and Facebook / Regional Education Center.

Free Spay and Neuter

The Animal Welfare League of Claiborne County is sponsoring a free spay/neuter for dogs and cats in the Claiborne County area for families with income less than $30,000 per year, depending upon the number of people in the household. Pick up applications at Harrogate Hospital for Animals, Russell Veterinary Services or Rowland Veterinary Services. You can also request spay applications at awlccspay@gmail.com . Complete application, including proof of income and mail to AWLCC, 200 Hatfield Morgan Lane, New Tazewell, TN 37825 or scan/email to email address above. Be sure to include a phone number.

Little League Sign-Ups

New Tazewell Little League baseball and softball sign-ups will be held at Hardee’s of Tazewell from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25. The sign-up fee is $55.

CCSWA Board

The Claiborne County Solid Waste Authority Board will meet for the regular monthly meeting on Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. in the large courtroom at the Claiborne County Courthouse.

Relay For Life

The Claiborne County Relay For Life will be hosting its first Team Captains meeting on Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at First Century Operations Center. If you are interested in starting a team and are unable to attend please contact Meagan England at meagan.england@claibornecsd.org or Amy Earl at amyearl@fcbtn.com. Thank you for your support.

American Legion Post #109

All veterans are invited to attend monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is Feb. 9. Activities begin at 6 p.m. with a meal. The meeting is at 7 p.m. at 335 Fulkerson Street in Tazewell.

CCECD Board

The Claiborne County Economic & Community Development Board (formerly the Industrial Development Board) will hold its next scheduled meeting at noon on Feb. 12 at The Old Town Grill, 1440 North Broad Street, Tazewell, TN 37879. The public is welcome to attend.

Bereavement Support Group

The death of a loved one by suicide presents special problems in grieving. There is often more shock, a greater sense of injustice, more guilt and blame and a heightened sense of helplessness – and these all tend to complicate the healing process for survivors.

There is a safe place in this community for survivors (families and loved ones of suicide victims) to share their loss with others who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. Surviving Our Loss After Suicide (SOLAS) is a bereavement support group that will provide help, hope and healing. Groups are open to all adult survivors of suicide and will be held Feb. 16 at Walters State Community College, 1325 Claiborne Street, Tazewell, in room 204 (top floor). The meetings will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information call Tammy Wilson, facilitator, at 865-585-2917.

Emergency Communications District

The Claiborne County Emergency Communications District will meet in regular session on Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. at the Claiborne County Justice Center Training Room.

Relay For Life Kickoff

The Claiborne County Relay For Life Kickoff will be Feb. 27 starting at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial University’s Tex Turner Arena during their home basketball games. Relay For Life teams will be selling food, homemade goodies and much more to benefit Claiborne County Relay For Life. Please come out and support a great cause.

Claiborne Animal Shelter

The annual Claiborne Animal Shelter Fundraiser will be held April 2 at the Cumberland Gap Convention Center. The cost is $100 per plate for the banquet and silent auction. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. To reserve your seat, you may call the Shelter at 423-626-2686. To reserve a spot and pay in advance, go online to: www.claiborneanimalshelter.com.

Drug Test Kits Available

Free Saliva Based Drug Testing Kits are available, provided and sponsored through UNITE and (SIGCO) Stand in the Gap Coalition. Give Me a Reason (GMAR) is designed for parents/guardians to use to talk with their children and randomly test them, which gives them a reason to say “no” when tempted or offered drugs. They can be obtained at 44 different distribution points throughout tri-state area & at the SIGCO office, located at 502 Pennlyn Ave., Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. For more information where to find a distribution point near you contact the SIGCO office at 423-300-1302 or to pick one up stop by on Thursdays between noon and 5:30 p.m. Please join us at SIGCO office for prayer Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Free GED/High Set Classes

Classes are held in the Claiborne School Board office. For more information call 423-317-1064 or email hiset@tcatmorristown.edu.

Arthur Community Center Association

The Arthur Community Center Restoration Organization has regular meetings the second Thursday and fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Arthur Community Center. All residents of Arthur Community are encouraged to attend. The ACCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration of the Arthur Community Center for the public to use for meetings, family reunions, wedding receptions, etc.

Free Classes

The Claiborne County Adult High School will be offering classes for students to earn credits to receive their Tennessee state high school diploma. Flexible scheduling will be available for both day and evening classes. If you do not have your high school diploma, please contact the Claiborne County Adult High School at 423-626-8222 for more information.

Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society

The Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society is located on Old Knoxville Road across from the library. For more information call the office 526-5737. Research hours are Sundays from 1-5 p.m. CCHGS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Claiborne County. Please mail your tax deductible contributions or annual membership dues to: CCHGS, P.O. Box 32, Tazewell, TN 37879.

Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project

Outreach workers Tommy Brooks and Erin Haverland will be available to assist eligible veterans with enrollment in HVRP. The Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project helps veterans find secure employment through case management, job training, and referrals and links with other local service providers. Outreach workers can arrange visits with veterans in outlying areas who are unable to travel to the program office.Veterans Can Help is located at 511 Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917. Phone: 865-524-3926. In Knoxville, call 865-546-4813 for more information.

Town of Tazewell BMA

The board meetings for the Board of Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Tazewell are conducted at Tazewell City Hall at 1830 Main Street, the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The BMA workshops are on Wednesday prior to the scheduled board meeting at 6 p.m. as needed. The public is invited to attend all meetings of the board.

Medical students at Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) are helping raise awareness for the American Heart Association (AHA). Osteopathic medical students and physician assistant students gathered in the shape of a heart on the hill in front of LMU-DCOM on Feb. 3 to promote American Heart Month.

Throughout the month of February students will be hosting several events in their local area to help raise awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy heart. On Friday, Feb. 5, students will be at the Walmart in New Tazewell from 4-8 p.m. performing wellness checks including screenings for body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure.

LMU-DCOM is an authorized training center for the AHA. LMU-DCOM offers a wide range of courses and certifications for today’s health care providers and the public at large through its Center for Simulation and Training. Using LMU-DCOM’s state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, the AHA Training Center’s multi-disciplined instructors provide medical education in the areas of Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).

In addition to AHA activities, the student led LMU-DCOM Community Wellness Program, medical students will join with LMU-DCOM’s AHA Training Center to teach students cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in various schools throughout Claiborne County. The program which has been active since October 2015, has trained and certified over 250 area students at Claiborne and Cumberland Gap high schools in CPR.

For more information about how you or your community group can participate in CPR training contact AHA Training Center Coordinator Johnathan Greene at 423-869-6480.

The DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine is located on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. LMU-DCOM is an integral part of LMU’s values-based learning community, and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of osteopathic physicians and physician assistants to provide health care in the often underserved region of Appalachia and beyond. For more information about LMU-DCOM, call 1-800-325-0900, ext. 7108, email dcom@lmunet.edu, or visit us online at www.lmunet.edu/dcom.

DCIM\101MEDIA

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The following public records are the only public records that have been made available to the Claiborne Progress. If you feel that there has been an omission or other error, please contact the appropriate agency. As addresses are not always included in these reports, some misidentification can occur with individuals having the same name as others. Persons listed as being arrested or receiving citations should not be considered guilty or convicted as they have not been found to be so in a court of law at the times these records are filed. Since records are printed as received, the list is controlled by the appropriate agencies involved; we are unable to change or omit names or information.

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Claiborne Co. Sheriff’s Office

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Brian Timothy Elliott – aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, driving under the influence, speeding, burglary, vandalism under $500, theft under $500, two counts each theft of property, possession of a schedule II drugs and driving on a suspended license, one count each possession of a schedule IV drugs, outstanding child support attachment, violations of the implied consent, driver’s license, registration and financial responsibility laws, failure to yield right of way, two violations of probation

Lauren Anna Bryant – (under county jurisdiction) aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer, two counts aggravated domestic assault, one count each assault, domestic vandalism and resisting stop, halt, frisk or arrest

James Alan Adams – domestic assault, driving under the influence

Jaden C. Guy – domestic assault

Matthew David King – aggravated burglary, vandalism over $1,000, theft over $1,000, failure to appear for criminal simulation

Josh Bryant Carver – vandalism over $1,000

Tina Elizabeth Hash – two counts passing worthless checks

Jimmy Lee Posey – passing a worthless check

Terrandalum Scott Litton – capias/bench warrant for driving on a suspended license

Melissa Nicole Farley – failure to appear for theft over $500, possession of drug paraphernalia and violations of the seat belt and driver’s license laws

Kristen Ann Goldinger – failure to appear for violations of the light and financial responsibility laws and possession of drug paraphernalia

Willie George Flanary – failure to appear for violations of the traffic control device and driver’s license laws

Lawanna April Brock – possession of a schedule VI drugs

Rondal Keith Brock – possession of a schedule VI drugs

Christopher Lynn Webber – public intoxication

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New Tazewell Police Dept.

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Cathy Mae Wilson – violation of probation for the sell of a schedule II drugs

Robert Gene Michael – violation of probation

Patricia Sue Gilbert – failure to appear for failure to carry and violation of the seat belt law

David W. Mosley – theft of property involving merchandise, disorderly conduct

Justin Wayne Pridemore – violations of the light, driver’s license and financial responsibility laws

Stephanie Leigh Bolden – driving on a suspended license, operating a motor vehicle with a broken tail light

Laura Jean Dotson – violation of the leash law

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Tazewell Police Dept.

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Alfred Joseph Pagano – aggravated sexual battery, aggravated kidnapping, simple assault, failure to identify as a registered sex offender

Billie J. Greene – driving under the influence, violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Michael Gilbert – speeding 62/45, violation of the registration law

James P. Wilson – speeding 42/35

Alexander Lyle Spencer – driving on a revoked for driving under the influence, violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Lauren Anna Bryant – capias/bench warrant for failure to appear

Mark Alan Brewer – violation of probation

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Photo submitted

Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

Photo submitted

Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

Photo submitted Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_Edmondson-Photo.jpgPhoto submitted Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

Photo submitted Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_Edmondson-Photo-BW.jpgPhoto submitted Circuit Court Judge John D. McAfee, right, recently administered the oath of admission to attorney Darrick L. Edmondson at an event for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, held at the Ball Farm Event Center in Campbell County. McAfee welcomed Edmondson to the legal profession in front of Edmondson’s parents, Union County General Sessions Judge Darryl Edmondson and Union County Chancery Court Clerk Sandra Edmondson, before officially swearing Darrick Edmondson in. Fleischmann commended McAfee and congratulated Edmondson on his admission to the Tennessee Bar. Edmondson will be joining the law firm of Hagood, Moody and Hodge PLC in Knoxville. He will be primarily practicing in Claiborne, Campbell, Union and Knox Counties and the surrounding areas.

Judge Shayne Sexton heard several criminal plea agreements recently in Claiborne County Criminal Court, including one for Orville Brock, 62, charged with aggravated assault.

Brock was sentenced to a split confinement of four years TDOC supervised probation with two days confinement. He was given credit for two days jail time already served. Brock must pay at least $150 per month in court costs and is barred from any contact with his victim. As a condition of his probationary status, Brock agreed to forfeit to the New Tazewell Police Department all seized weapons.

Scott Douglas Hatfield, 25, charged with domestic assault, possession of a schedule II controlled substance and attempted introduction of a controlled substance into a penal facility, was sentenced to a split confinement of four years TDOC supervised probation with 165 days confinement. Hatfield was given credit for 165 days jail time already served. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines including a $750 fine and forfeits $2,000 to the Claiborne County Drug Fund. Hatfield is barred from any contact with his victim.

Steve Edward Vanburen, 57, charged with aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, was sentenced to a split confinement of six years TDOC supervised probation with one year confinement. Vanburen was given credit for any jail time from Aug. 25. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs beginning 30 days after release from jail.

Charles Franklin Wray, 49, charged with violation of the sexual offender registration law, was sentenced to a split confinement of two years TDOC supervised probation with 90 days confinement. Wray was given credit for 14 days jail time served. He must pay at least $150 per month in court costs beginning on Feb. 19 and is subject to GPS monitoring for the remainder of the probationary portion of his sentence. Wray is subject to all sexual offender registration and restrictions.

Kevin Lawrence Fleenor, 36, charged with violation of the sexual offender registration law, was sentenced to a split confinement of two years TDOC supervised probation with 90 days confinement. Fleenor was given credit for 88 days jail time served. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs beginning 30 days after release from jail. Fleenor is subject to all sexual offender registration and restrictions.

Rebecca McCrary, 31, charged with neglect of a child under the age of eight years and promotion of methamphetamine manufacture, was sentenced to a split confinement of nine years supervision by Community Corrections with 365 days confinement. McCrary was given credit for 152 days jail time served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs.

John David Collins III, 26, charged with arson, burglary and two counts of theft over $1,000, was sentenced to six years supervision by Community Corrections. Collins must pay at least $150 per month in court costs beginning 30 days after his release from jail and must pay a total of $300 to the Economic Crime Fund. He must also pay $10,000 in restitution to one of his victims and is barred from any contact with all his victims. Collins must stay at least 1,000 feet from their properties.

Jeremy J. Llewellyn, 28, charged with possession of a weapon by a convicted felon and aggravated burglary, was sentenced to six years confinement with credit for 83 days jail time already served.

Hazel Gray, 20, charged with submitting a false report, was sentenced to a split confinement of four years TDOC supervised probation with 30 days confinement. Gray was given credit for 30 days jail time already served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and a total $800 in restitution to the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office and the Tazewell and New Tazewell Police Departments.

James David Crawford, 30, was initially charged with driving under the influence, possession of methamphetamine with the intention to sell, simple possession of a schedule VI drugs and drug paraphernalia. Counts two and four were dismissed and Crawford was sentenced on DUI and simple possession to a concurrent 11 months, 29 days at 75 percent confinement. He was given credit for jail time served since Aug. 23 to Jan. 19.

Joseph Hurst, 52, charged with two counts of forgery and one count of theft of property under $10,000, was sentenced to a split confinement of six years TDOC supervised probation with one year confinement. Hurst was given credit for 95 days jail time already served. He must pay at least $150 per month in court costs beginning 30 days after release from jail. He forfeits a total $450 to the Economic Crime Fund. He must pay $750 in restitution to one of his victims and is barred from any contact with all of them. He must stay at least 1,000 feet from their properties.

Michael Wayne Diddle, 48, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days unsupervised probation. Diddle must pay at least $100 per month in court costs.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

For the last couple of years tobacco industry stakeholders including tobacco manufacturers, leaf merchants, universities, and grower groups have been working to develop a single set of guidelines for US tobacco production Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). This effort has been focused on consolidating existing GAP guidance and standardizing grower expectations and requirements in the areas of record keeping, training and production practices.

As a result of this effort, in 2014 burley tobacco growers attended a GAP training session and received a GAP card and identification number in order sell their tobacco. This is an ongoing program and we are again having a GAP training session here in the county. This training is offered the University of Tennessee Extension and is open to all interested tobacco producers regardless of race, color, age, sex, disability, or national origin.

It is requested that you pre-register for this meeting. Please call 423-626-3742 to register prior to Feb. 9. There is no cost for this program. The training will be held at the Claiborne County Farm Bureau. If you received a GAP handbook last year, please bring it to this training so it can be updated. Also bring your GAP identification card or number from last year. If you are a new grower for 2016, you will receive a complete GAP handbook at this training meeting. All major buyers strongly prefer their contractors to be GAP certified.

Here are the three main steps that every new producer must do to be registered for GAP training and credit. Although new producers will be able to register and get a temporary card at these meetings, it would be very beneficial for time management to have as many producers as possible register before the meetings.

In the winter/spring of 2016, all new tobacco producers (burley or dark) will need to do the following:

• Register as a producer member with GAP Connections. Growers register by going to the website (gapconnections.com) and clicking on the “growers” link or the “join us” link in the bar at the top of the page, or by clicking the Grower ID Signup icon at the bottom of the page.

• After registering, you will be directed to a page where you can print a temporary ID card. A permanent card will be mailed to them in approximately three weeks.

• You will scan this card to register at any GAP meeting you attend. This will then automatically record your certification with GAP Connections for that year (registration is a one-time process, but certification meetings must be attended yearly).

If you have questions concerning requirements or recommendations for GAP training, please contact your tobacco company representative. If you can’t get online and register on your own at home, you can come to the Extension Office where someone will assist you in completing the registration.

For more information contact Matthew McGinnis, Extension Agent I, TSU Cooperative Extension, 423-626-3742 or mmcginn9@utk.edu.

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s (TDCI) Division of Consumer Affairs is offering consumers tips to avoid tax return preparer fraud. Although Tax Day isn’t until April 18, the Division encourages you to file early and vet your tax preparer to avoid fraud.

“If you decide to have a tax return preparer prepare and file your income tax return, it is important to choose that person carefully,” TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini said. “Finding a qualified professional takes a little planning and some research, but remember, you are responsible for everything on your return, even when someone else prepares it.”

Tax return preparer fraud or misconduct can happen to anyone, even if you hire a preparer who you believe is professional and honest. For example, a preparer might change your tax return after you’ve approved and signed it, altering income or credits to obtain a bigger refund and then keeping some or all of it.

In some cases, the preparer might steal your whole refund by changing direct deposit information. Another common fraud situation can occur when the preparer files a return without your authorization – he or she might have your information from a prior year, and use that information to file a return for the current year. Or perhaps you met with a preparer and then chose not to hire that person, but the preparer filed a return using your information anyway.

The Division of Consumer Affairs urges Tennesseans to do research before trusting anyone with important tax information:

– Check the Preparer’s Qualifications

– Make sure the preparer has a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) – this is required for all professional preparers.

– Find out if the preparer is affiliated with any professional associations.

– Ask the preparer about his or her education and training – what background does that person have that qualifies him or her to prepare your return?

– Check the Preparer’s history

– Check with the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if the preparer has had complaints filed about him or her.

– Check with professional associations to see if the preparer has had any disciplinary actions, and for the status of the preparer’s license:

– For Certified Public Accountants (CPAs):

If the preparer is a CPA, verify his or her license with the Tennessee Board of Accountancy at www.verify.tn.gov. For more information about the Tennessee Board of Accountancy, visit www.tn.gov/regboards or call 888-453-6150.

For attorneys:

– Verify an attorney is licensed to practice law in Tennessee by visiting the Board of Professional Responsibility’s website directory at www.tbpr.org.

For Enrolled Agents:

– Verify the status of an enrolled agent by contacting the IRS Office of Enrollment at 855-472-5540 or EPP@irs.gov.

– Ask About Charges and Fees

– Avoid preparers who base their fee on the amount of your refund.

– Try to obtain a clear estimate, preferably in writing, for the preparation and filing services.

– Find Out What Services the Preparer Offers

– Does the preparer offer electronic filing?

– Will the preparer be available after April 15 if you have questions or problems? Consider whether the preparer will be around to answer questions about your return months or years after it is filed.

– Ask Around

– Do you know anyone who has used this preparer? Were they satisfied with the service? If not, why?

Protect Yourself

– Always get a complete copy of your tax return. Verify that the preparer signed it and included a PTIN.

Avoid any preparer who asks you to sign a blank return or requires the refund to be direct-deposited to a bank account under the preparer’s control.

Note: Be careful when a preparer claims he or she can get you a larger refund than other preparers. Remember, even if your preparer handles everything involved in completing your tax return, you are still responsible for its accuracy.

For more consumer tips, visit www.tn.gov/consumer. To learn more about tax return preparation, visit www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov.

TDCI is charged with protecting the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Our divisions include the Athletic Commission, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Corrections Institute, Emergency Communications Board, Fire Prevention, Insurance, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Peace Officers Standards and Training, Regulatory Boards, Securities, and TennCare Oversight.

Claiborne County Soil Conservation District will be announcing and taking applications for a new 319 grant funded for the Little Sycamore Creek watershed area. A meeting will be held on Feb. 9 at 6 p.m. at the community watch meeting in the schoolhouse. Any landowner or operator managing a farm in this watershed is eligible to apply for financial assistance for installing best management practices (BMPs). These practices include fencing, installing alternative water sources, and stream bank stabilization along with many other BMPs. For further information please contact Claiborne County Soil Conservation District at 423-626-3811 ext. 3.

A man who reported to authorities that he was attacked by a large animal this past September has been indicted on felony charges of a false report.

Michael Savage, 27, of LaFollette has been indicted by the Campbell County Grand Jury on charges of felonious report to an officer following a the claim that he was attacked by a large animal while walking along the road in the White Bridge area near LaFollette.

He was arrested last week by the Lafollette Police Department on separate charges and is being held on a $30,000 bond until his court date on Feb. 8 at 8:30 a.m.

A couple of wild animals in unusual situations required the assistance of well trained Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) officers recently as a deer and a bear found themselves in some odd predicaments.

Around 9:15 a.m. one recent morning, TWRA wildlife officers received a call about a bear on the Eastman Chemical Company property in Kingsport. Upon arrival, they located a 150-pound sow black bear lying underneath a railcar, well within the chemical plant property. Eastman officials assisted in the process by shutting down the railroad system to allow access to the officers and to create safe conditions for the officers and the bear. The wildlife officers utilized a CO2 powered rifle and jab stick to administer tranquilizing drugs. Once she was safely immobilized, wildlife officers attached an ear tag and recovered her into a trap. The bear was released into the Cherokee National Forest near Erwin.

Many black bears in East Tennessee did not go into their winter dens as they normally do, according to TWRA. A combination of a lack of hard mast this fall and very mild temperatures well into December probably resulted in bears remaining on the ground in search of food. While it is not clear why she was well inside the confines of Eastman Chemical, she was probably wandering in search of an available source and got lost in the maze of the plant.

In another unique situation, TWRA wildlife officers and a wildlife biologist tracked down a doe deer another morning that had been spotted for several months with a large, plastic bucket stuck around its neck. TWRA received the first reports sometime in early December and learned from residents in the Choto area of Knox County that the bucket had been stuck on the deer’s neck for several weeks. TWRA officers made several visits to the area but were unsuccessful in immobilizing the deer.

The bucket, which appeared to be a type of chicken feeder with the base removed, likely became stuck as the deer attempted to feed on grain inside. The handle was around the back of the deer’s head, which prevented it from being removed without some assistance. The crew safely immobilized the deer with tranquilizing drugs and removed the bucket. After administering a reversal agent, the deer was up and returned into the woods unharmed.

Photo courtesy of TWRA A bear that wandered into the Eastman Chemical Company in Kingsport was immobilized by TWRA agents and returned to the Cherokee National Forest.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_IMG_0201.jpgPhoto courtesy of TWRA A bear that wandered into the Eastman Chemical Company in Kingsport was immobilized by TWRA agents and returned to the Cherokee National Forest.

Photo courtesy of TWRA TWRA wildlife officers successfully removed a plastic bucket that was stuck around a deer’s neck in the Choto area of Knox County.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_IMG_0013.jpgPhoto courtesy of TWRA TWRA wildlife officers successfully removed a plastic bucket that was stuck around a deer’s neck in the Choto area of Knox County.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/web1_IMG_0057.JPG.jpeg