Thursday, November 29, 2012

Ankeny Council Talks Mayoral Rerplacements

Ankeny's City Council will discuss mayoral candidates in open session Monday, before they pick a replacement for outgoing Mayor Steve Van Oort December 10th. The Des Moines Register reports he's resigning December 7th to join the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Once the appointment is made on Dec. 10, there's a 2-week period for residents to petition for a special election.

Ankeny City Council Talks Mayoral Replacements

Ankeny's City Council will discuss mayoral candidates in open session Monday, before they pick a replacement for outgoing Mayor Steve Van Oort December 10th. The Des Moines Register reports he's resigning December 7th to join the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Once the appointment is made on Dec. 10, there's a 2-week period for residents to petition for a special election.

Drought's Shrinking Big Creek Lake

Iowa DNR says this years' drought dropped the water level at Big Creek Lake by more than 6'. A department spokesperson says the water level's still falling by about 6" a week. The level's allowed crews installing new boat ramps to pour the concrete slabs where they need them instead of pouring them on shore. Unfortunately, if levels keep falling, the boat ramps will be unusable.

Ankeny PD Bust 2-Teens for Alleged BB Gun Vandalism

Ankeny PD have arrested two juveniles for a string of BB gun attacks on November 26th. KCCI reports the suspects have been identified as 17-year old Sergio Alvarez and 16-year old Byron McKinley, both of Ankeny. They've been detained on suspicion of criminal mischief for shooting cars with a BB gun. About 20-owners reported vehicle damage which could be as much as $10,000.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Hy-Vee Stepping Up for Drake Relays

Hy-Vee's going to be the presenting sponsor for next April's Drake Relays. Drake University says there'll be over $500,000 in purse money for a field that will include 16 medalists from the 2012 London Olympics, and a world record holder. More entrants are expected to be announced for the relays which will be getting prime time coverage from ESPN.

Grassley, King Join Chorus for Keeping Wind Energy Credit

Sen. Chuck Grassley and Cong. Steve King, both Iowa Republicans, joined Democratic colleagues today calling for an extension of the production tax credit for wind energy. The Des Moines Register reports the credit subsidizes the generation of wind power and is considered critical to continued growth in the industry. It's set to expire at the end of the year.

DM Teen Pleads Guilty in Friends Shooting Death

The 16-year-old boy who shot and killed his friend last month's pleaded guilty to felony adult charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless use of a firearm. According to the Des Moines Register,
Dontavius Sharkey faces up to 15 years in prison, but won't be sentenced for 2-years, allowing juvenile court officials to decide what steps need to be taken.

New Data Center Could Be Coming for Altoona

Waterloo-based IT firm Enseva's purchased just over 13-acres in Altoona for a proposed data center. The Des Moines Register reports the property's east of 200-acres that's been rezoned to allow for another yet to be finalized $1.5-billion data center. The property, near 34th Avenue Northwest and I-80, is expected to have several buildings, each generating 8 to 10-jobs.

Trash Can Fire Prompts Brief Hoover High Evacuation

A brief evacuation this afternoon at Hoover High School, when firefighters had to be called in to put out a fire in a second floor bathroom trash can. KCCI reports crews quickly knocked down the fire, then vented smoke from the building. An investigations are working to determine how that fire started.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Arrest in Monday DM Murder

Des Moines PD have charged 30-year old Joseph Ceretti with yesterday's murder of 31-year old Eric Naylor. Naylor was found near East 17th and Walnut Streets. Investigators say an autopsy determined he'd been stabbed to death. KCCI reports investigators haven't said anything about motive, but did say the two were acquaintances and Naylor had an extensive criminal history.

YMCA Board Says Yes to Land Swap with Wellmark

The Board of Directors of the Greater Des Moines YMCA have signed off on a plan to buy the old Polk County Convention Complex. This is part of a larger land swap involving the County, Wellmark and the YMCA. A new YMCA will call the Plex building home. The deal opens up the downtown waterfront property that's the current YMCA home.

WDM Garage Fires Damage Estimated at $110,000

$110,000. That's the initial estimate of the damage from fires reported early this morning in a row of garages at the Washington Heights Apartment Complex at 42nd Street and Woodland Avenue in West Des Moines. It took firefighters over an hour to bring the fire under control. The cause of the fire's still under investigation.

Iowa Gets Bullying-Suicide Prevention Hotline

Iowa has a new bullying/suicide prevention hotline. Gov. Branstad announced it this morning at today's anti-bullying summit. KCCI reports trained professionals will be available to answer calls and texts at 855-581-8111 or www.yourlifeiowa.org. Close to 1,200 students, teachers and parents are at the Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit at Hy-Vee Hall.

Ex-DM Cop Gets 16.5-Years

Ex-Des Moines cop Brandon Singleton was sentenced to 16.5-years in prison today. Polk County Judge Scott Rosenberg imposed the sentence after Singleton violated his probation last week by removing his electronic tracking bracelet. KCCI reports the prison term was suspended for 3-years probation, with the understanding that if he violated probation, there was a prison cell with his name on it.

Monday, November 26, 2012

What SHould DM Next School's Chief Be Like

Des Moines residents get a chance Thursday to tell district officials what qualities they think are important for the district’s next superintendent to have. There's a community forum Thursday night at 6 at the Central Campus multi-purpose room, 1800 Grand Ave. If you can't be there, there's an online survey you can take until Novemebr 30th. The link's on our website.




http://superintendentsearch.dmschools.org and click on “Community Survey.”

DM Shooting Victim Identified

Police say 31-year old Eric Naylor was the man found shot and killed early this morning near East 17th and Walnut Streets. Naylor was found around 12:30 this morning in the residential neighborhood. Police have classified the death as a homicide, and so far there's word on possible suspects.

Suspect Charged in Jolly Holiday Lights Vandalism

Des Moines PD have arrested and charged 20-year old Justin Arey with criminal mischief for damage done to the Jolly Holiday Lights display early yesterday. Investigators got one to Arey when they found a license place in the damaged light displays. The traced the car to Arey, and when they visited his home he admitted driving through the display. The damage's estimated at $25-to-$30-thousand.

Iowa Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

Another Iowa Soldier's been killed in Afghanistan. The Pentagon's confirmed 23-year old Army Sgt. Joseph Richardson's death in an IED attack on his patrol in the Paktika province November 16th. According to KCCI, Richardson, who was born in Algona, was in the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, of the 1st Infantry Division, and had previously served in Iraq.

Friday, November 23, 2012

New DART Central Station Open for Business

This was the first day of operation for DART's new central station on Cherry Street. The Des Moines Register reports many of the people waiting for buses were quite pleased to be doing so in an indoor waiting room with the temps today below freezing. DART's also made service changed and added two new routes.

Land Buys Could Mean Events Center Hotel

The Des Moines Redevelopment Company, a new non-profit formed to kick start downtown redevelopment, says it's bought two pieces of property, a building at 700 Fourth St. and a parking lot at 700 Sixth St., for $2.7-million. The Des Moines Register reports talks have already started with several groups about developing an upscale hotel on those parcels near the Iowa Events Center.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Warmth Blows Out Tomorrow

Hope you enjoyed the near 70 degree temps today. They will be gone tomorrow. A cold front sweeps in tomorrow, and the day will start in the 60's but will fall by afternoon. That cold front will also be bringing in winds gusting to 30 mph. KCCI reports forecasters expect the high Black Friday to only be in the upper 30's.

Wal-Mart Could See Pickets Tomorrow

Heading to a Des Moines area Wal-Mart on Black Friday? You might have to cross a picket line. Some Wal-Mart employees here are joining others around the country planning to strike that day for better pay, fair schedules, and affordable health care. WHO-TV reports workers at the 73rd St. Wal-Mart in Windsor Heights plan to start picketing tomorrow night.

Altoona and Des Moines PD After Pharmacy Robber

Altoona detectives are talking with Des Moines PD, over the possibility the same suspect may have robbed pharmacies in both cities. The first robbery was at Ward Pharmacy in East Des Moines, and a few hours later at Medicap Pharmacy in Altoona. Narcotics were taken in each hold up. The suspect's 5'5", clean shaven, between 18 and 20, and wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

DM Water Works Fixing Broken Court Street Main

Des Moines Water Works says it hopes to have the water main repaired at Elliot Apartments on Court Street sometime tonight. The main broke yesterday flooding the basement where all of the utilities, and boiler are. Water Works CEO and GM Bill Stowe says getting residents back to their apartments may take a few days since the city has to do inspections of everything that was damaged.

DM PD After Driver Who Hit Runner and Kept Going

Doctors say it'll take about three months for Kendra Cantelope to recover after being hit from behind while running Sunday night on 56th Street. Des Moines PD are looking for a silver 4-door Toyota sedan that never stopped. KCCI reports Cantelope's got a fractured back, broken bones in her foot, a fractured collar bone, a concussion and road burn.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Shooting Investigation in Des Moines

Des Moines Police are investigating a shooting. The victim was brought to Mercy Medical Center's emergency room around 12:30 this afternoon. Police have not released additional details.

Polk Supervisors Sign Off on Land Swap

Polk County's Board of Supervisors has approved a letter of intent that'll start a three way land swap. The deal will see the county trade the empty convention complex and $500,000 cash to Wellmark in exchange for the former J.C. Penney building. That will be turned into county court space, and the former convention site will be sold to the YMCA. The swap gets the county something its wanted for several years: more court house space.

Kum and Go Gets New COO

Mark Hasting's the new COO of Kum and Go L.C. Hastings joins the West Des Moines convenience store chain after serving as a reional v.p. at Starbucks, and before that as v.p. of store operations at Target. Hastings replaces Dennis Folden who retired as Kum and Go's COO at the end of August, after 40-years with the company.

New Ramps Open on I-35 in Ankeny

The ribbons have been cut, and the new 36th Street ramps on I-35 in Ankeny are open. This ends a $25-million interchange project that included rebuilding the north and southbound lanes and adding the new ramps. The new interchange is expected to cut traffic at the First Street ramps and improve interstate access for northern Ankeny neighborhoods.

Brandon Singleton in Jail Again

Brandon Singleton's in the Polk County Jail for violating his probation and avoiding arrest. The ex-DM cop busted last night hiding in the clothes dryer of a Des Moines home. State Corrections says he removed his ankle monitor Friday night. Singleton's attorney tells KCCI if he did violate probation, "The judge gave him the keys to the jail and the idiot opened up the jail and locked himself in."

Monday, November 19, 2012

Bauder Pharmacy Woes

Kimberly Robertson, co-owner of Bauder Pharmacy in Des Moines, could lose her state license of allegations tied to 700,000 missing doses of painkillers. Her brother and co-owner, Mark Graziano's already had his license suspended. No criminal charges have been filed, but the Iowa Board of Pharmacy has a hearing on the painkillers and other problems found at Bauder Pharmacy next February.

Branstad Softens on Return of Felon Voting Rights

During a meeting with the NAACP today, Gov. Branstad promised to streamline and improve access for felons who want the right to vote back. In 2005, Gov. Vilsack issued an executive order automating restoration of voting rights, letting thousands of felons who'd served their time vote. Gov. Branstad revoked that, going back to the application process which has seen only a dozen people win back their voting rights since 2011.

Head Injury Caused Weekend Clive Parking Lot Death

Clive Police say Randy Warren died from injuries consistent with a fall. The 49-year old was found unresponsive in a parking lot around 2a.m. Saturday in the 2100 block of NW 86th St. Toxicology results say alcohol may have been a factor, but there are no witnesses. Police don't know if Warren died from a fall or an assault. If you saw something, call Clive PD 515-278-1312.

Defendant Pours Water on Attorney in Courtroom

Jerome Power wasn't happy after closing arguments in his murder trial in Cedar Rapids. KCCI reports he was so unhappy, that he poured a glass of water over his attorney's head as the jury was leaving the courtroom this morning. The Cedar Rapids Gazette says he told his attorney 'you sold me out,' before dousing him. Power's charged with strangling a female neighbor with a pair of pants in 2010.

Police Cracking Down on Seatbelt Use

Today through Sunday, State and local police, Sheriff's departments, and the State Department of Transportation are running a special Traffic Enforcement Program, aimed at getting people to buckle up. 92% of drivers wear seat belts, but a state report says of November 1, 37% of the 299 people killed in traffic accidents this year weren't wearing a seatbelt.

Friday, November 16, 2012

AFSCME Starts Contract Talks

Iowa’s largest public employees’ union started talks with the state on a new 2-year contract for 20,000 members, and they're proposing a 1% pay hike in the first year and 2% in the second. The Governor's office says the deal would cost $122-million in year one, and $159-million the second year if all state workers are covered. The Des Moines Register reports state negotiators had no comment on the union presentation today.

Liquor Sales Up in Last Budget Year

State officials say a combination of changes in how hard liquor's sold and new flavored alcoholic drinks that appeal to young people and women, have led to a rise in sales. According to KCCI for the fiscal year ended June 30th, sales of booze were up over 6%. For the budget year, Iowans 21 and up drank an average of 35.6 gallons of beer, 2.23 gallons of booze, and 1.9 gallons of wine.

Iowa May Let Feds Set Up Health Insurance Exchange

Gov. Branstad says Iowa will keep working on its own health insurance exchange to comply with the health reform law, but says he's leaving the door open to have the feds set it up. The Governor's notified the Secretary of Health and Human Services Iowa doesn't have the information needed to make a decision on setting up its own exchange, including the costs involved.

Bye Bye Hostess

Looking for Hostess brand products on store shelves in Des Moines? You may already be out of luck. Many of the shelves at the company's outlet store here were bare by midday after the company announced it was going out of business. A spokesperson says a nationwide employee strike led to the decision to liquidate assets. Those employees said no to new wage and benefit concessions.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

DMACC at Southridge Mall Could Open Next Fall

DMACC and Southridge Mall have taken the wraps off an updated plan for the colleges expansion into the former JC Penney building. The Project's expected to cost $14-million, and the plan will include new programs and departments. The college is also going to beef up its recruiting of students from areas south of Des Moines. The DMACC facility open as soon as next fall.

Man Falls 6 Floors from DM Apartment Building

An unidentified man was rushed to an area hospital this afternoon after authorities say he fell from a 6th story window of an apartment building. It happened at Royal View Manor, a high-rise at 1101 Crocker Street. Neighbors did CPR on the man, who wasn't breathing after falling about 69-feet. Witnesses say they could see a torn window screen from the ground.

Salvation Army Kettle Stolen in Des Moines

Someone stole a Salvation Army red kettle from a Hy-Vee store on Des Moines south side today. According to KCCI, the kettle was empty, but it's worth $35, and the stand it sits on is worth $200. Police say this is the first stolen kettle report they've had in the Des Moines metro area in about two years.

Police Regulars At Home of Ankeny Couple Facing Child Neglect Charges

New reports show police were repeatedly called to Paul and JoAnn Drake's home in Ankeny over behavioral issues with their kids before child neglect and false imprisonment charges were filed against them. The state's investigating the Drake's for allegedly locking their 13 and 14 year old adopted children in the basement for up to a month when they weren't in school. Neighbors tell KCCI the teens were out of control.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

DM PD Looking for Person of Interest in Forest Avenue Shooting

Des Moines PD need your help finding 21-year old Daveion Smith. He's a person of interest in a November 6th shooting in the 2100 block of Forest Avenue. WHO-TV reports Smith's African-American, 5'10", 150 pounds, with a tattoo, "Zaniyah," on the right side of his neck. If you know where SMith can be found, call Polk County Crime Stoppers 223-1400 or Des Moines PD 283-4811.

Phony Bills Being Passed at Fast Food Outlets in Des Moines

Two more Des Moines fast food restaurants say they've been stuck with counterfeit bills. Someone passed a phony $50 bill at a Merle Hay Road KFC yesterday afternoon, and someone else tried to use a phony $50 at a Burger King, also on Merle Hay Road. The Des Moines Register reports the employee recognized it as a fake, and after a few words were exchanged, the suspect left, without the bill.

Heidi Anfinson Released From Prison

Heidi Anfinson's was released from the women's prison in Mitchellville this morning. She was convicted of her then 2-week old son Jacob's murder in 1998. She served 9-years before being granted a new trial and released. Anfinson says she suffered severe postpartum depression. She'll be on parole until 2023. One condition of that parole: she can't live or work with children.

Iowa Secession Petition

A petition calling for Iowa to secede from the US has made it to www.whitehouse.gov. As of this morning it had close to 1900 signatures, and needs 25,000 by December 11th to get a review by the Obama administration. KCCI reports most of the signatures so far have come from people outside the state. Around 40-states have similar secession petitions at www.whitehouse.gov.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

U of I Pres Looking Into Alleged Inappropriate Conduct By Ex-Employee

U of I President Sally Mason's reviewing the university's hiring of Peter Gray, a former athletics department employee who quit after being accused of improperly touching student-athletes for years. According to a published report, Gray allegedly broke U of I's sex harassment policy with inappropriate behavior including massaging and hugging students.

Stephanie Rose Now Youngest Federal Judge in the U.S.

Former U.S. Attorney Stephanie Rose has become the youngest federal judge in the nation. KCCI reports Rose, who is 39-years old, is also the first woman judge to serve in Iowa's Southern District. She was sworn in this morning during a ceremony this morning in Des Moines.

Petition Drive Started to Oppose Ankeny Casino Plan

A group of around 40 residents have launched a petition campaign to oppose a proposed casino in Ankeny at I-35 and NE 36th Street. The Des Moines Register reports their goal is to collect 6600 signatures in opposition to the plan. City Council's approved a contract to help Wild Rose Entertainment with its effort to get a license for the casino/hotel complex.

Four Dead in Lake City Fire

Four people were killed in a Lake City house fire this morning. A police officer spotted the fire around 1:45a.m., and the first firefighters on the scene say the home was fully involved. The victims were a 22-year old woman, an 11-month old boy, an 8-year old girl and a three year old boy. The fire isn't considered suspicious, but the State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause.

Branstad: Renew Wind Energy Production Tax Credit

Gov. Branstad's joined Governors of 27 other states where wind energy's on the upswing in calling on Congress to renew the wind energy production tax credit. According to KCCI, the industry employs 75,000 and pushes over $10-billion/year in economic development. Conservative House Republicans haven't been fans of the credit, calling it wasteful spending.

Monday, November 12, 2012

How Will Ankeny Replace Resigning Mayor

Ankeny's City Council has some post election work to do--find a new mayor. Steve Van Oort, the current mayor, will be resigning since he was elected to the Polk County Board of Supervisors last week. He will leave with about a year remaining on his current term. The Des Moines Register reports the council's expected to appoint someone to fill the remainder of Van Oort's term.

Great Cookie Walk on the Way

Volunteers are getting ready to make over 20,000 cookies for the Great Cookie Walk in West Des Moines. The event's Saturday November 24th, with proceeds benefiting the Youth Justice Initiative. The Des Moines Register reports an event leading up to the walk, the Great Cookie of the Year Contest, is Wednesday afternoon at the West Des Moines Christian Church on Mills Civic Parkway.

Vote Tomorrow on High Risk State Prison Inmate Parole

A legislative committee votes tomorrow on a proposal that would require an inmate to get only 3 instead of the current unanimous vote from the state parole board for high-risk inmates to be granted parole. The three vote rule's coupled with new risk assessments, including rating the chances that a released inmate would commit a violent crime.

Urbandale Veterans Memorial Dedicated

Close to 300-people braved this mornings sub-freezing temps to see the dedication of the Urbandale Veterans Memorial. It's in Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park. The project includes 300 inlaid bricks, which were sold to help raise fund for the project, and many of them carry the names of veterans, their branch of service, and when they served.

Mom of Missing Girl Has Federal Court Datew

Misty Morrisey's due in a federal court Wednesday to face a complaint she violated the terms of her supervised probation in a decade old meth case. KCCI reports Morrisey's the mother of one of the two girls who've been missing from Evansdale since July 13th. Investigators think the girls were kidnapped and are still investigating their disappearance.

Friday, November 9, 2012

GOP Taps Schneider for 22nd State Senate Race

Republicans have picked West Des Moines City Councilman Charles Schneider as their candidate to run for the 22nd State Senate District seat, vacated by last month's death of Pat Ward. The Des Moines Register reports the 39-year old Schneider will face democrat Desmund Adams, a Clive residents and businessman in a special election December 11th.

Salvation Army Red Kettle Goes High tech

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign's going high tech. As of today, you can use your smartphone to donate to the bell ringers. The Des Moines Register reports the kettles now have a QR code, which, when scanned by a smartphone, takes users to the Salvation Army’s Paypal website. You'll also be able to send a text to make a donation.

DM PD Investigate Cash Grab at Pay Day Business

Des Moines PD are looking for a man who grabbed a moneybag from a security guard delivering the cash this morning to an Ace Cash Express in the 1900 block of Carpenter Drive. The Des Moines Register reports authorities say the suspect ran up, grabbed the bag and headed off towards 19th Street. Now word how much cash was in the bag.

Birth Mom Wants Adopted Daughter Back

June Simpson wants her now 13-year old daughter back, after the child's adoptive parents, Paul and JoAnn Drake of Ankeny, were charged with false imprisonment, neglect and abandonment. Simpson tells KCCI her daughter told her 4-years ago, that she was being physically abused by the couple. The state's investigating charges the Drake's locked their adopted children in a basement anytime they weren't in school for a three to four week period.

Drug Bust at Marshalltown Motel

Two California men have been arrested after Mid Iowa Drug Task Force agents searched two rooms at a Marshalltown Super 8 Motel. KCCI reports 68-year old Ramon Cavillo-Cardenas and 41-year old Rigoberto Martinez-Miss face drug charges after investigators found 10 lbs plus of methamphetamine and over $4,000 in cash.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Child Struck By TV Set Dies

The 3-year-old Des Moines girl that had a television set fall on her in August has died. Family members tell KCCI Aleena Coe had been in a coma for several months. Since the child pulled the TV down on herself, her family's been working on an effort to encourage people to use safety straps to secure furniture to wall.

Ward Replacemenrt Expected Tonight

Republicans have a special nominating convention tonight for the 22nd State Senate District, which covers Clive, Windsor Heights, Waukee and parts of West Moines and Dallas County. The GOP needs a candidate to replace State Sen. Pat Ward who lost her battle with cancer last month. Among the people who've expressed an interest in the post are John Ward, the late senators husband.

USPS has Temp Jobs for the Holidays

There are 150-temp jobs with the U.S. Postal Service in the Des Moines area. KCCI reports they'll be help for the holiday mailing season. The positions will be at USPS's distribution center Urbandale, and the processing and distribution center in Des Moines. The jobs are expected to run from Nov. 17th to the end of December. You can apply at www.usps.com.

Suspect Caught After Car Chase

Des Moines PD got their man after a car chase around the metro that ended near East 32nd Street and Dubuque Avenue. KCCI reports the suspect's been identified as 30-year old Denny Hoffman, who was wanted on a probation violation for possession of a weapon. Hoffman's new charges include eluding, possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia, and leaving the scene of a crash.
Voters have defeated a $47 million bond referendum for a new Johnson County justice center. Fifty-six percent of voters said “yes” to the bond issue, but it needed 60 percent to pass. The county wanted to build the justice center next to the existing county courthouse. It would have included offices for the sheriff’s department and clerk of court, new courtrooms and a 243-bed jail. Supporters say it would have ended overcrowding at the current jail. Overflow inmates are housed outside the county at a cost of about $1 million a year.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Therapist Charged With Inappropriate Patient Relationship

Des Moines Police say 45-year old therapist is free after turning herself in today on a charge of sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist. According to the Des Moines Register, Darla Krom, works at Primary Health Care, allegedly started a relationship, and moved in with a 39-year old female patient less than a year after ending therapy at Counseling Associates of Central Iowa.

Wiggins Retained by Voters

Iowa Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins isn't leaving the bench. He and 70-other judges were retained by voters yesterday. That despite a "No Wiggins" campaign launched by Iowans For Freedom over his vote in the ruling that found the state's ban on gay marriage unconstitutional. Wiggins thanked voters for acting to keep poltiics out of the courts.


Story Blogged at 11-07-12 15:14 by djennings

Voters Retain Wiggins

Iowa Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins isn't leaving the bench. He and 70-other judges were retained by voters yesterday. That despite a "No Wiggins" campaign launched by Iowans For Freedom over his vote in the ruling that found the state's ban on gay marriage unconstitutional. Wiggins was retained with 55% of the vote.

DM PD Still Looking for Source of Gun in Sharkey Shooting Case

Des Moines PD still don't know where 16-year old Dantavius Sharkey got the gun he allegedly used in the accidental shooting of his best friend last month. The Des Moines Register reports Sharkey led police to the weapon, but hasn't said how he got it. Sharkey's due in Polk County Court for a hearing this week, and prosecutors want to charge him as an adult with involuntary manslaughter and reckless use of a firearm.

DM Principal Gets Deer Head at Desk

The interim principal of Des Moines Cowles Montessori School strolled into his office this morning and turned on the light switch. Udell Cason, Jr. found a deer head, wearing a coat, sitting in his office chair. The prank was courtesy of one of the school's teachers, and KCCI reports Cason joked the deer may have been applying for his job.

Copper Thieves Strip Another Cell Tower

Thieves have stripped the copper wire from another Iowa cell phone tower. The latest target's a Chat Mobility tower in Red Oak. The Montgomery County Sheriff's department reports the damage's been estimated at $2,000. KCCI reports over 40-turbines and almost a dozen cell towers statewide were hit last month. Two men were caught three weeks ago trying to rip off a cell tower in Council Bluffs.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Newton Doctor Faces Federal Charges Over Prescriptions

A former Newton doctor's been charged with 114 federal crimes, including illegally distributing drugs and defrauding private and public insurers. The indictment against Dr. Lafayette Twyner, Jr. alleges among other things, that he prescribed addictive drugs without performing adequate examinations. The Des Moines Register reports Twyner's lawyer says his client's done nothing wrong.

New State Resource for Small Businesses

If you're starting your own business and new help, get to know www.IAsourcelink.com. Gov. Branstad unveiled the new one-stop website for technical and financial resources, including webinars, blogs and resource pages. KCCI reports a mobile version of the website is also in the works.

Early Voting Bigger This Year Than 2008

There are long lines reported at polling stations this final day of early voting. Polk County poll workers started counting the 85,000 ballots already cast here this morning. So many people have voted early, officials expect only 115,000 to 125,000 people to vote in Polk County tomorrow, down from the normal 200,000. Early voting numbers won't be made public until after the polls close tomorrow.

Iowa DPS Investigating Hardin County Shooting

The 17-year old boy shot by Hardin County Sheriff Timothy Smith, is in serious condition today at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. Smith says he shot the boy along a road near Hubbard Friday, after the boy raised a gun in his direction and refused an order to drop it. Iowa DPS is investigating, but need to hear from the teen before they can issue a report.

Friday, November 2, 2012

State Planning Interstate Widening in Council Bluffs

Iowa DOT's planning to widen I-29, 80, and 480 in Council Bluffs because of projected increases in traffic. The plan for I-80 would double it to 12-lanes in the area. According to KCCI department officials say the existing pavement's already at its expected life. Right now 20,000 to 75,000 vehicles/day use the interstates in the area and the numbers are expected to hit 150,000 vehicles/day by 2035.

Johnston Construction Accident Injures Two

Two construction workers were hurt this morning when temporary stairs collapsed at 6535 Merle Hay Road in Johnston. WHO-TV reports they were working on the staircase leading to an underground garage at the new Cornerstone Independent Living Facility. Both were taken to a hospital with what authorities say are minor injuries.

Shooting, Two Arrests After Marshalltown Robbery

Marshalltown Police say one of their officers and one of two suspects were shot this morning after a robbery at Lennox Credit Union on East Main Street. KCCI reports both suspects were arrested after the robbery, which took place in a residential neighborhood. A police spokesperson says none of the injuries are life threatening. Marshalltown Police, Iowa DCI, and FBI continue the investigation.

IOWA GOVERNMENT GENDER GAP

The median pay for women who worked for the state of Iowa last fiscal year was about 9%age points under that of men who were employed by the state.
A new state salary database released Thursday shows the state had nearly 60,000 employees who were paid a total of $3.02 billion in the year that ended June 30.
The state employed nearly 32,800 women last year with a median salary of nearly $45,700, compared with more than 27,100 men with a median salary of more than $50,300.

REVISIONS IN STORE FOR PUBLIC SAFETY, OTHERS

Leadership of the Iowa Public Safety Department has been overhauled and a new boss has been named for the Iowa State Patrol.
Iowa Public Safety Commissioner Brian London says Col. Dave Garrison will take over the patrol's top job. He'll replace Col. Patrick Hoye, who will run the Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau. Hoye has led the patrol since 2007.
London also reversed organizational changes made less than a year ago by his predecessor, Larry Noble, who retired last month.
London has reinstated various divisions and named new directors for each. The divisions are criminal investigation, the fire marshal's office, narcotics enforcement, and the Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center.

FORMER COP NARROWLY AVOIDS PRISON SENTENCE

Brandon Singleton was sentenced to three years of probation Thursday. Singleton, a former Des Moines police officer, narrowly avoided a lengthy prison sentence and he received a tongue lashing from the judge about his recommended future behavior.

Singleton was fired in May after officers discovered drugs in his patrol car. He appeared in court Thursday morning to resolve pleas and sentencing for multiple arrests going back to April.

IT'S ALWAYS FIVE O'CLOCK HERE!

A West Des Moines company offers employees unlimited time off, and the CEO says the policy makes workers more productive.
According to an article in the Des Moines Register, Tom Halterman, CEO of OutcomesMTM in West Des Moines, says the unlimited paid time-off policy works well at his business.
OutcomesMTM employees also have a real incentive to work on Friday afternoons.
At around 2:30 or so, employees roll out a cart stocked with beer and other beverages. Halterman says it's just another example of the blending of work and play time at the West Des Moines company.
As one employee put it... “If happy hour is at the office, why leave?”

DES MOINES STABBING

Des Moines Police are investigating an overnight fight and stabbing that hurt two people.
It happened just after midnight outside The Underground at East 5th and Locust.
Police say the two men got into a fight and one was stabbed in the side.
Paramedics took him to Methodist with non life-threatening injuries.
Charges are pending against the suspect, the victim was arrested on outstanding warrants.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Casino Vote Blowback in Ankeny

Ankeny Mayor Steve Van Oort, and City Council members and Mark Holm and Bobbi Bentz say they are against a plan to build a $150-million hotel/casino in the city. Bentz voted no Monday on a contract the council passed Monday to help Wild Rose Entertainment move the project ahead, Ankeny residents by the dozens have taken to social media the phones to let the council know they made the wrong decision.

John Ward Plans to Seek Late Wife's State Senate Seat

John Ward says he's going after the GOP nomination to fill his late wife's 22nd State Senate District seat. Pat Ward was running for reelection when she died of cancer last month. A special election to fill her seat's December 11th. The Iowa Republican party's having a nominating convention November 8th. John Ward's an attorney and former WDM School Board President.

Grinnell and DMACC Join Forces to Better Student Education

Des Moines Area Community College's today signed a deal with Grinnell College that links the two year college to a top tier 4-year school, helping DMACC grads on the road to a BA from Grinnell. WHO-TV reports Grinnell officials say while their school isn't inexpensive, they work very hard to provide financial support, and Grinnell graduates have the lowest student debt load in the state.

State Providing Incentives for Fertilizer Plant Expansion

CF Industries is planning a $1.7-billion expansion at its fertilizer plant in Woodbury County. It's expected to create 100-new jobs. Iowa's Economic Development Authority's awarded the project $1.5 million in direct assistance and tax credits, for a total of $22-million-which could reach $57-million over 4-years; and $13 million in refunds on sales taxes paid during construction and $9 million in investment tax credits.

Traffic's Started Moving After I-35 Semi Fire

I-35's been reopened in West Des Moines after a semi fire that started during the noon hour. Southbound traffic had been forced to exit the interstate at Mills Civic Parkway. An eyewitness tells KCCI the driver of the burning big rig appeared to be ok.

INFANT INJURED IN CRASH

A single vehicle crash early this morning left six people injured.

It happened along the curve at State Street and 13th Avenue in Marshalltown just before 2 a.m.

A Chevy Blazer jumped a culvert, went over a bike path and landed in Linn Creek.

One of the victims was an infant.

Paramedics took all six victims to the hospital in Marshalltown. The infant and an adult male were then taken by Life Flight to Des Moines.

RYAN COMING TO AREA

Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan will continue a rush of candidates to Iowa with an event in Cedar Falls.

Ryan will attend a rally Friday afternoon at the University of Northern Iowa.

His visit will come a day before Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney and Democratic President Barack Obama hold Saturday events in Dubuque.

FORMER COP SENTENCED TO PROBATION

A former officer, fired from the Des Moines Police Department in May after officers discovered drugs in his collision-damaged squad car, has been sentenced to three years probation for possession of weapons in violation of his probation on drug convictions.
Judge Scott Rosenberg warned Brandon Singleton that any further infractions would place him immediately behind bars.
The judge said if Singleton violated his probation again, no matter how minor the offense, he would be sent to prison.

17 YEAR OLD ROBBED AT GUNPOINT, CAR STOLEN

A Des Moines man told police he was robbed by four men who also stole his car while waiting for his friend.

The 17-year-old said he was waiting for a friend while sitting in his car in Westchester Park around 10 o'clock last night when a man asked to use his cellphone. The men then pulled out a gun, pointed it at him, and ordered him to get out of the car and onto his knees.

Three other men then joined the first one and ordered the 17 year old to give them everything he had while threatening to shoot him if he didn’t. He gave them his cell phone and wallet.

The men then made him lie on the ground and patted him down, then took took off in his car.

PEEPING APARTMENT OWNER CAUGHT

An Iowa City landlord accused of peeping on a tenant has been charged with invasion of privacy.

63-year-old Elwyn Miller faces a lone misdemeanor count so far.

A resident at one of Miller's properties called police on Wednesday to report that Miller had been watching her through a peephole in the shower ceiling.

Miller told investigators that he'd looked into the bathrooms of other apartments he owns so he could watch women tenants take showers.

Miller is currently free on bond.