Monday, June 1, 2026

Lyon County Sheriff Department Activity

Lyon County Sheriff Brent White reported several arrests, disturbances and traffic incidents during the final week of May.

On May 24 at approximately 8:46 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler conducted a traffic stop on a Kia Soul on KY 93 South. The driver, Amber L. Blick, 27, of Princeton, was charged with having one headlamp, operating on a suspended or revoked operator’s license and possession of marijuana. She was cited to appear in Lyon District Court in June.

Later that night at approximately 11:24 p.m., deputies responded to a disturbance at a Kuttawa business. The Eddyville Police Department assisted because multiple people were involved. Deputy Beeler charged Joseph D. Nonwiler, 28, of Owensboro, with alcohol intoxication in a public place and second-degree disorderly conduct. He was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center. Tanner McFadden, 19, of Owensboro, was charged with possession of alcohol by a person age 18-20 and was cited to Lyon District Court. Eddyville police charged two additional individuals under age 21 with alcohol-related offenses.

On May 27 at approximately 4:18 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams investigated a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of KY 93 South, KY 293 and KY 1055. According to the report, Justice Harvey, 18, of Eddyville, was driving a 2015 Dodge Challenger and pulled from a stop sign on KY 1055 into the path of a northbound 2011 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Nicholas D. Armer, 21, of Eddyville. The vehicles collided in the intersection. No injuries were reported.

On May 28 at approximately 1:25 a.m., Adams investigated a hit-and-run collision at a Kuttawa business. A parked 2026 Freightliner cab-over semi owned by Royal Trucking of West Point, Mississippi, was

NEWSCAST | C-PLANT Credit Union in Marion

 

News | Sports | More

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Gordon Guess, 89, dies


MARION, Ky. – Gordon Blue Guess, 89, of Marion, a longtime leader in the community, banking and sports development, died Saturday, just days before his 90th birthday.

Guess was widely known across western Kentucky for his decades of civic involvement and leadership. He served for many years as president of The Peoples Bank in Marion and played a key role in numerous community development projects and local initiatives.

A strong supporter of amateur baseball, Guess was among the founders of the Ohio Valley Collegiate Baseball League and served as president of the organization. He also organized the Marion Bobcats semi-professional baseball team and was later inducted into the Semi-Pro Baseball Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport.

Family members said Guess passed away peacefully at home Saturday morning. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday, June 5, at Myers Funeral Home in Marion. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, June 6, at Marion Methodist Church, with the service time to be announced.

A complete obituary will appear in this week’s edition of The Crittenden Press.

Saturday, May 30, 2026

Free Fun Day at Marion-CC Park


Faith Church in Salem will host a free “Family Fun Day in the Park” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Marion-Crittenden County Park on Lower Park Drive in Marion.

The event will include games, prizes, basketball and pickleball activities, along with a free lunch for those attending. For more information, text 844-226-9515.

Friday, May 29, 2026

Davidson resigns as Livingston Sheriff

Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson officially retired at noon today, ending a 20-year career with
the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, including 16 years as sheriff.

Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams appointed Sheriff-elect Glenn Gordon to fill the remainder of Davidson’s term through Dec. 31. Gordon officially took office at noon Friday.

Davidson is credited with helping establish the county’s first School Resource Officer program and bringing the D.A.R.E. program to Livingston County.


Thursday, May 28, 2026

IT'S BACK | Thursday's Podcast is Here

 

Back this week after a little time off!
News | Sports | More
.

Lady Rocket just keep making history

Freshman pitcher Brodi Rich settled in after
the first inning and threw a no-hitter
the rest of the way to beat Madisonville.

History keeps arriving for the Lady Rockets – and they are not finished yet.

Crittenden County advanced to the Second Region softball championship game for the first time in school history Wednesday night with a 5-2 semifinal victory over Madisonville at Eddyville.

The Lady Rockets (24-10) have now won 10 straight games and 14 of their last 15 while continuing one of the most memorable runs ever produced by the program. Crittenden will face Henderson County in Thursday’s regional title game at a time to be announced.

Just a few weeks ago, many of the same athletes helped lead the Lady Rockets basketball team to the regional championship game, making this spring’s softball run even more remarkable.

Crittenden overcame a 2-0 first-inning deficit Wednesday, then erupted for all 5 of its runs in the bottom of the third inning despite collecting only 4 hits in the game.

Anna Boone highlighted the inning with a 2-run triple. Brodi Rich added a 2-run RBI play, while the Lady Rockets capitalized on 3 Madisonville errors and 4 walks.

Boone finished 1-for-4 with 2 RBIs and a triple. Andrea Federico, Brenna Kemmer and Brooklyn Lovell each added singles.

Rich settled in after the opening inning and dominated the rest of the way. She pitched a complete game, allowing only 2 hits (both in the first inning) and no earned runs while striking out 7. 

Elliot Evans reached base 3 times with 3 walks and scored a run, while Federico and Boone also crossed the plate during the decisive third inning.

The Lady Rockets captured their second Fifth District championship in the past 4 years earlier this month. Three years ago, Crittenden advanced to the regional semifinals before falling short. This year’s squad has now broken through to the championship round for the first time ever.

Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Voter registration solicitation notice


MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County Clerk Daryl Tabor is warning residents about unsolicited voter registration mailers expected to arrive in Kentucky mailboxes in the coming days.

Tabor said the mailings are not connected to local or state election officials and may be disregarded.

According to Tabor, the mailers are being distributed by the Voter Participation Center and Center for Voter Information, which he described as partisan-leaning organizations that routinely conduct voter outreach and get-out-the-vote campaigns.

He said the mailers can create confusion because they may contain incorrect voter information or suggest recipients are not registered to vote when they already are.

“If you receive a mailer from either organization, please disregard; it is not official election mail,” Tabor said.

Residents with questions about their voter registration status may contact the Crittenden County Clerk’s Office at 270-965-3403.

Lyon County Sheriff's Report


Lyon County's weekly sheriff's report outlined multiple arrests, crashes and investigations during the week of May 15-24, including a felony intimidation charge connected to a domestic violence case. 

On May 15, deputies and emergency responders were called to Dulaney Road after a 13-year-old Cadiz juvenile lost control of a mini-bike in a gravel driveway and crashed. The juvenile was flown by Air Evac to an out-of-state hospital for treatment of injuries. 

Deputies investigated several non-injury crashes during the week, including a two-vehicle collision May 16 in Kuttawa involving Brian Moodie, 64, of Grand Rivers, and Nathanael Boone, 52, of Madisonville; a single-vehicle crash May 19 near the intersection of KY 818 North and KY 293 involving Cynthia Attaguile, 38, of Princeton; a commercial vehicle collision May 21 in Kuttawa involving drivers John Conner, 66, of Napa, Calif., and Rivera Rodrigues of Miami, Fla.; and a May 21 collision on U.S. 62 West involving Dema Genseal, 86, of Princeton, and Thomas Smothers, 55, of Benton.   

On May 19, deputies arrested Cameron A. Sanders, 20, of Hopkinsville, charging him with fourth-degree assault (domestic violence) after a disturbance complaint on Hylan Drive involving a juvenile family member. On May 22, Deputy Bobby Beeler’s continuing investigation resulted in Sanders being charged with intimidating a participant in the legal process, a Class D felony. Authorities allege Sanders violated bond conditions and threatened the victim and witnesses in an attempt to discourage cooperation with law enforcement. He remained lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center under a no-bond court order. 

On May 19, deputies responded to a loud party complaint in Old Eddyville where multiple teenagers were reportedly trespassing on private property. Hayden J. Schenk, 18, of Fredonia, was arrested on a second trespassing-related incident within two months. His vehicle also was impounded. 

Deputy Josh Travis served a Hopkins District Court bench warrant May 20 on Edward G. Bell, 26, of

Former county judge, May, dies at 81

Former Crittenden County Judge-Executive John C. May, 81, of Marion, died Saturday, May 23.

May, a longtime farmer, educator and public servant, served three terms as Crittenden County judge-executive from 1985-98, making him one of the county’s longest-serving chief elected officials.

Known for his love of the Ohio River and the outdoors, May remained active in boating and water skiing well into his late 70s. Family members said one of his most memorable adventures was a solo boating trip from Kentucky to the Florida Keys. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 30, at Fohs Hall.

Myers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. See a complete obituary in this week's newspaper. 

Monday, May 25, 2026

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY IN MARION

Burna American Legion Commander John Driscoll 

MARION, Ky. – The observance of Memorial Day is more than tradition – it is a time to ensure those who gave their lives in military service to their country are not forgotten.

Following opening ceremonies that included the raising of the flag and the singing of the National Anthem, Burna American Legion Commander John Driskill offered a reminder to those gathered Monday for the Memorial Day observance at Mapleview Cemetery that Americans owe a great debt to those who have served in the military, from the American Revolution to today’s veterans called to duty in both peacetime and war.

“We gather today to honor the estimated 1.5 million men and women who have died in the nation’s wars and conflicts, and to remember those who have served and passed on,” Driskill said. “While many died in battle, thousands died from wounds received years after the battle, from diseases and exposure to toxins on the battlefield, and from the mental scars of trauma they received in war.”

Driscoll noted Memorial Day evolved from Decoration Day observances that began in 1866 to honor those who died on both sides during the Civil War. It became an official federal holiday through congressional action in 1971.

He said the impact of military service extends beyond the battlefield.

“Some die from the effects of homelessness and addiction, while others are killed in training and operational activity – staying prepared and diligent to defend the nation,” Driskill said.

He reminded those attending the ceremony that men and women in uniform have always stood ready to defend the nation, with some giving “their last full measure of devotion” to preserve freedom. He also noted that 2026, marking the nation’s 250th anniversary, is an especially meaningful year to honor those sacrifices.

“So, on this Memorial Day 2026, let us honor their ultimate sacrifice by resolving to be citizens worthy of them,” Driskill said. “Let us not only remember on this day, but carry their spirit of service with us throughout the year.”

Driskill encouraged Americans to help veterans and military families who may be struggling and urged citizens to become involved with veterans organizations and volunteer efforts.

“Let’s assure that when we send them into harm’s way, we give them the support they deserve on the battlefield and at home when they return,” he said. “Their example is something that is in short supply in our fast-paced world. It often goes unrecognized and underappreciated. Let’s resolve that in this 250th year of our country, their sacrifices will not be in vain.”

Driskill concluded by urging civilians to work to ensure the nation never forgets the sacrifices made by military service members.

American Legion Post 217 is based in Burna.


Friday, May 22, 2026

Free Estimates for all your Needs

 


HOW AND WHERE TO MARK MEMORIAL DAY

This Memorial Day, take a moment to read Brenda Underdown's column and reflect on the history behind one of Crittenden County’s most meaningful places of remembrance, the Veterans Memorial at Mapleview Cemetery. From its beginnings in 1947 as a community effort to honor local soldiers lost in World War II, to the later additions recognizing those who served in Korea and Vietnam, the memorial stands today as a quiet but powerful reminder of sacrifice, patriotism and hometown pride.

This week’s edition of The Crittenden Press shares the remarkable story of how local citizens, veterans organizations and grieving families came together nearly 80 years ago to create a lasting tribute for the county’s fallen heroes. It’s a piece of local history worth remembering, especially on Memorial Day weekend.

Here is where to mark the holiday with local Memorial Day Weekend services: To celebrate Memorial Day weekend and salute America’s fallen heroes, there will be multiple memorial services at Marion, Blackford, Burna, Shady Grove and Fredonia.

The weekend kicks off with the annual Blackford Memorial Walk of Honor at 10 a.m., with guest speaker retired U.S. Marine Chad Nelson. On Sunday, there will be an 8 a.m., service and continental breakfast at the Burna American Legion post. On Memorial Day Monday, Marion’s Mapleview Cemetery will host its annual service at 10 a.m. Then, at 11 a.m., there will be a service at Shady Grove where District Judge Ben Leonard will speak and Lacie Duncan will sing with a potluck lunch to follow at the fire station. In Fredonia, there will be a service at 1 p.m. The event will celebrate the enduring legacy of the Revolutionary War patriots who helped shape the history of the Fredonia community.

Thursday, May 21, 2026

CLWD will meet Tuesday instead of Monday

Crittenden-Livingston Water District’s regular monthly meeting has been rescheduled for Tuesday, May 26, due to the Memorial Day holiday.

District officials said the date change is necessitated because its normal meeting date, which falls on Monday, is a holiday. The meeting will begin at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Monday, May 18, 2026

Lyon County Sheriff's Activity

The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office served multiple warrants and investigated several incidents during the past week, according to a media release.

On Monday, May 11, deputies served a Grayson District Court bench warrant on James T. Ashby, 68, of Caneyville for nonpayment of court costs, fees or fines. Ashby was being held awaiting extradition to Grayson County.

On Tuesday, May 12, deputies served a Lyon District Court criminal complaint on Mary D. Nixon, 60, of Eddyville. She was charged with a nuisance ordinance violation and summoned to court later this month.

On Wednesday, May 13, deputies served a Daviess District Court bench warrant on Heather R. Collier, 37, of Central City, for nonpayment of court costs, fees or fines. Collier was being held awaiting extradition to Daviess County.

Later that evening, Sheriff Brent White served a Lyon District Court criminal complaint on Johnny D. Demello, 59, of Eddyville. He was charged with a nuisance ordinance violation and summoned to court later this month.

On Thursday, May 14, deputies served two fugitive from justice warrants on Andrew M. Allen, 58, of Memphis, Tenn. Allen was wanted in Tennessee on charges including probation violation, evading arrest, open container, driving on a revoked license, speeding, improper registration plates and felony reckless

County Jailer's Race | Candidate Profiles

 

Click Image to Enlarge

Election Day Notice: Crittenden County Voting Information

The Crittenden County Clerk's office will be closed to all regular business on Tuesday, May 19, remaining open exclusively for election-related activities. Registered voters heading to the polls can cast their ballots on Election Day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. For maximum convenience, any eligible voter in the county can utilize the centralized Countywide Voting Center located at the Crittenden County Office Complex (200 Industrial Dr., Marion). 
Be sure to bring your ID—a driver's license is the most efficient method to scan—to receive your paper ballot. You can confirm your local precinct or preview your sample ballot ahead of time at GoVote.ky.gov.


 

C-PLANT | Monday NEWScast

 

News | Sports | More

Clerk closed when polls are open

 Crittenden County Clerk’s office will be closed Tuesday, May 19 except for Election Day activities.

Friday, May 15, 2026

Softball Postseason opens on Monday

Fifth District Tournament begins Monday at Cadiz

Click Image to Enlarge
The 2026 Lady Rocket softball team includes (front from left) Fiona Louden, Isabel Geary, Blakelee Gardner, Mela Penn, Lilly Cappello, Addie Nelson, Karlee Jent, Brooklyn Lovell, London McCord, (back) coach Shawn Holeman, Caroline Martin, Georgia Holeman, Elliot Evans, Anna Boone, Andrea Federico, Elle McDaniel, Brenna Kemmer, Brodi Rich, head coach Chris Evans, coach Stephanie Galusha. The Lady Rockets are led by four-year seniors Federico, Boone, Evans, McDaniel and Holeman. The team has already matched its win total from last year just one month into the new season. Playing in the toughest district in west Kentucky, the Lady Rockets hope to get back to the regional tournament this year. Its last district championship came when this year’s seniors were just freshmen.



Thursday, May 14, 2026

Voting starts at 6am Tuesday

 

Click Image to Enlarge

Marion's Lucky Strike Man

Before he was a familiar face back home in Marion, Aubrey “Buster” Shaver was riding horses, playing western villains and sharing the screen with some of Hollywood’s biggest names.

The former Marion High School graduate appeared in films and television shows alongside stars like Ronald Reagan and Bill Cosby, and many may remember him best as the rugged cowboy from Lucky Strike cigarette commercials in the early 1960s.

After years in Arizona working in law enforcement and acting, Shaver eventually returned home to Crittenden County in retirement.

Read local historian Brenda Underdown's interesting piece on Shaver in this week’s edition of The Crittenden Press as she revisits the fascinating life of the hometown cowboy who went from western movie sets to national television, and finally back to Marion.


BRIDGE BETWEEN D'BURG-EDDYVILLE NAMED FOR LEFAN

DYCUSBURG, Ky. – Andrea LeFan was a bright, beautiful teenager when she died in a tragic two-vehicle crash almost 20 years ago on KY 295 between Dycusburg and Eddyville.

“Her bubbly personality and smile – she would just light up a room when she walked in,” said Lyon County Judge-Executive Jamie Green-Smith, who was the school resource officer in Lyon County in 2006 when Lefan was killed.

On Friday, a bridge on KY 295 not far from the crash site will be dedicated in Lefan’s memory. The bridge was formally named in LeFan’s honor by the Kentucky General Assembly, and fiscal courts in both Crittenden and Lyon counties adopted resolutions on the matter.

Green-Smith has led an effort to dedicate the bridge at the Lyon-Crittenden county line to honor the memory of LeFan, who lived north of Dycusburg in Crittenden County and attended Lyon County High School.

LeFan died June 5, 2006, from injuries sustained in the crash. She was just 16 years old.

The Lyon County Fiscal Court will host the dedication ceremony at 11:30 a.m., May 15 at the KY 295 Livingston Creek Bridge at mile point 9.419. The bridge will be reduced to one lane so traffic can continue to pass slowly through during the ceremony. 

Motorists should expect one-lane, alternating traffic between 11 a.m. and noon during the event. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet flaggers will direct traffic through the area while the temporary lane restriction is in place.

An earlier ceremony in Eddyville will also recognize Shawn King, who was killed in a bicycle accident on KY 93. Officials said the remembrance is intended to honor local lives lost on Lyon County roadways.

Polls open 6 to 6 on Tuesday

 

Click Image to Enlarge

Salem Council changes meeting date for next week

Salem City Council has changed the date of its monthly meeting due to Election Day.

The meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday has been moved to Thursday, May 21, at 5 p.m. in the Deer Lakes meeting room.

Because the change in date legally requires the meeting to be classified as a special-called meeting, the council must strictly adhere to the posted agenda. Anyone wishing to place an item on the agenda should contact Salem City Hall by 2 p.m. prior to the meeting.

Students honored, Livingston gives 2% pay hike

LIVINGSTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

Livingston County Board of Education approved a 2% districtwide pay raise Monday night and boosted pay for retired teacher substitutes to $205 per day during a special called meeting packed with students, parents and faculty celebrating student achievement.

Board Chair David Kitchens called the May 11 meeting to order with all members present after the meeting time was changed from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The board room was filled for the district’s monthly LiveRED recognitions honoring students and staff involved in Career and Technical Education organizations that advanced to national competition following strong performances at the state level.

Superintendent Amy Ramage recognized Livingston County High School’s SkillsUSA team members who qualified for national competition this summer in Atlanta.

The Welding Fabrication team of Keaton Guill, Weslee Taylor and Dawson Thompson earned first place at state. Madison Anderson captured first place in Restaurant Service, while the Chapter Business Procedures team of Holli Kerr, Izzy Coomer, Aly Rowell, Dulce Lopez Cotera and Lian Guy also claimed a state championship.

Ramage additionally recognized Hunter Wilson for being selected as state treasurer for SkillsUSA Kentucky.

Livingston Central High School’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter was also honored for qualifying for nationals in San Antonio, Texas. Wen Yang Duong placed first at state, while Joshua Turner finished fifth.

The board also recognized Livingston Central High School’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America chapter for state competition success that earned trips to nationals in Washington, D.C.

Brooklyn Travelstead and Madison Kittle won first place in Chapter Service Project, while the Parliamentary Procedures team of Holli Kerr, Allie Buijk, Izzy Coomer, Rebecca Dean and Aly Rowell also earned first place honors.

Following the student recognitions, Ramage and LCHS Assistant Principal Leigh Choat honored Career and Technical Education teachers and advisors Jason Culver, Karlie Moore, Amy Hancock and Zeke Burg for their work preparing students for state competition.

During her monthly report, Ramage told the board no bids were received for painting projects at South Livingston Elementary School and that alternative options are being explored to complete the work this summer.

She also discussed the district’s Summer Feeding Program and preparations for state procurement changes involving the ACT or SAT beginning next school year.

Board members approved an auditor contract and final budgets for Fiscal Year 2027. The board also approved renewal of the school resource officer contract with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department and participation in the Community Eligibility Provision, allowing the district to continue providing free breakfasts and lunches to all students.

The board’s approval of the Fiscal Year 2027 salary schedule included a 2% raise across the district and increased pay for retired teacher substitutes to $205 per day. District officials said the move makes Livingston County one of the highest-paying districts in the region for retired teacher substitutes and is intended to help recruitment efforts.

The next meeting of the Livingston County Board of Education is scheduled for 5 p.m. June 8 at the Livingston County Board of Education office.


STAR-POWER IN SATURDAY'S HAYRIDE

 

ONE OF BIGGEST 
SHOWS TO EVER HIT MARION

 

THURSDAY's Local NEWScast

 

News | Sports | More

Rockets open post-season play next week

Click Image to Enlarge
Members of the Rockets baseball team are (from left) Jake Rich, Cameron Nesbitt, Whyatt Gibson, Eli Herrin, Brier Brown, Carter Tyner, Jett Champion, Luke Melton, Eli Lovell, Daryl Sherer, (back) Keegan Pierson, Brady Dayberry, Davis Perryman, Quinn Summers, Jaxton Duncan, Hudson Stokes, Drake Young, Zack Rustin coach Riley Jones and assistant coach Trace Adams.

 

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

NY DRIVER FACES LIVINGSTON CHARGES

SMITHLAND, KY. – A Brooklyn, N.Y., truck driver now faces homicide charges in connection with a tragic Interstate 24 crash in Livingston County nearly two years ago that killed an Evansville, Ind., grandmother and her two young grandchildren as traffic slowed near a Tennessee River bridge construction zone.


In a direct submittal of the felony case, a Livingston County grand jury on Tuesday indicted Mansur A. Kholikov, 24, on three counts of reckless homicide stemming from the July 29, 2024 multi-vehicle crash in the westbound lane of I-24 near the Grand Rivers Exit. The crashed was just east of where a contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet was conducting work on the Tennessee River bridge. It was not unusual at the time for traffic to be backed up for nearly a mile or more.

According to Kentucky State Police, Kholikov was operating a semi-truck westbound on I-24 when traffic slowed approaching the bridge construction area, which had been reduced to one lane. Investigators said the semi failed to slow and struck multiple vehicles, triggering secondary collisions involving at least five vehicles.

Killed in the crash were 68-year-old Saundra Dodd of Evansville and her grandchildren, Tallulah Dodd, 6, and Pele Doerter, 8. Their vehicle was reportedly engulfed in flames when first responders arrived.

Two other people were airlifted to out-of-state hospitals following the collision, while several additional victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Kholikov reportedly was not injured.

Other members of Dodd’s family were injured in the crash as they were traveling in another vehicle.

The criminal indictment comes as civil litigation connected to the crash continues in Livingston Circuit Court. According to court filings, crash victims and surviving family members have filed lawsuits against Bahtiyor Trucking LLC of Manville, N.J.; Kholikov personally; and other manufacturing and contracting defendants.

Kentucky State Police previously told the Evansville Courier-Press newspaper that investigators reviewed electronic data recorders and logging systems connected to the semi-truck as part of the lengthy crash reconstruction investigation.

Tuesday is primary election day

 

Click Image to Enlarge

Your Guide to the 2026 Primary Election


The 2026 Primary Election is fast approaching, and it is time for Crittenden County voters to head to the polls! Whether you prefer to beat the rush with early voting or participate in the tradition of Election Day, we have all the details you need to ensure your voice is heard.

Early Voting kicks off this week at the County Office Complex. On Election Day, Tuesday, May 19, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at five convenient locations across the county.

Important Note: The Crittenden County Clerk’s Office will be closed to all regular business on Tuesday, May 19, to focus exclusively on election activities.

Be sure to bring a valid ID and check your specific precinct at GoVote.ky.gov before heading out.

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Polling places open 6am to 6pm Monday

Click Image to Enlarge

 

Paducah woman arrested in Marion on meth charges

MARION, Ky. - A Paducah woman was arrested Monday evening near Marion after authorities  discovered approximately 2 pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine hidden inside a vehicle engine compartment during a multi-agency narcotics investigation.

According to the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office, detectives with the agency’s Drug Division began investigating 42-year-old April M. McKenzie in April after identifying her as a suspected source of methamphetamine in western Kentucky.

Investigators said McKenzie was traveling through several western Kentucky counties during the investigation. The sheriff’s office worked with the Kentucky State Police and the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office to monitor her activities.

Authorities said that just before 5 p.m., Monday, Kentucky State Police Trooper TJ Williams conducted a traffic stop on McKenzie along U.S. 641 outside the Marion city limits. During the stop, a McCracken County Sheriff’s Office narcotics K-9 alerted to the odor of illegal narcotics coming from the vehicle.

A probable cause search allegedly led investigators to discover about 2 pounds of crystal methamphetamine concealed in the engine compartment.

McKenzie was taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

Authorities said McKenzie has at least two prior convictions for trafficking in methamphetamine and that the case is expected to be considered for federal prosecution through the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

McKenzie of Park Avenue in Paducah was charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, second or subsequent offense; possession of drug paraphernalia; and excessive window tinting.

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Lyon County Sheriff's Activity

The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office recently released the following reports.

On Sunday, May 3, Deputy Bobby Beeler responded to a collision on Travis Road after a vehicle reportedly left the roadway, struck a mailbox and left the scene. An investigation led deputies to Heather Road, where a 2019 GMC Sierra operated by a juvenile was located. Authorities said the teen apparently panicked after the collision and drove to the location of her mother to report the incident. No injuries were reported.

Later that afternoon, Deputy Beeler and other law enforcement personnel responded to Days Inn Drive in Kuttawa for a suspicious person complaint. The investigation resulted in the arrest of Billy M. Judkins, 59, of Lebanon, Tenn. He was charged with public intoxication - controlled substance and possession of marijuana. Judkins was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Monday, May 4, SRO Deputy Cory Jessup charged a 13-year-old female with fourth-degree assault after the student was reportedly seen assaulting another student and throwing the victim onto an asphalt and riprap rock area on school property. Authorities said the student continued the assault until school personnel intervened. Officials said it was the second physical incident involving the juvenile. The student was released to a parent or guardian pending review by the Court Designated Worker.

Also Monday, Sheriff Brent White arrested James A. Gilkey, 52, of Lamasco on two bench warrants from Union District Court for failure to pay fines and contempt of court related to a traffic case. Gilkey was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Wednesday, May 6, Deputy Josh Travis investigated a two-vehicle collision at a business in Kuttawa. Authorities said a 2025 Peterbilt semi-truck driven by Jessica J. McNac, 22, of Okmulgee, Okla., was turning in a parking lot when the driver misjudged clearance and struck a 2004 Peterbilt semi-truck driven

Primary Election next week


Click Image to Enlarge

Friday, May 8, 2026

Area Blood Drives in May

The American Red Cross has scheduled several upcoming blood drives in the region during May, including opportunities in Fredonia, Salem and Eddyville.

A blood drive will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, May 15, at Fredonia Mennonite Church on Marion Road in Fredonia.

The Livingston Hospital Foundation Community Building in Salem will host a drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 20.

Another drive is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at the Lyon County Convention Center at Lee S. Jones Park in Eddyville.

The Red Cross said seasonal activities and end-of-school schedules often reduce donations this time of year, increasing the need for donors. Appointments may be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Those donating May 1-17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, while donors May 18-31 will receive a Red Cross beach towel while supplies last. 




Thursday, May 7, 2026

Government Offices Closing on Friday

Crittenden County Office Complex will close to normal business Friday to allow county employees the opportunity to attend the memorial service of Sheriff’s Deputy Rick Coyle.

The sheriff’s department will be closed all day to honor their fallen deputy, while the judge-executive, treasurer and tax administration will close for the day at noon. 

Meantime, the PVA and county clerk will close at noon for regular business, but both will remain open in the afternoon for special services only.

In-person, excused absentee voting will still be available in the county clerk’s office as required for those unable to vote in person for Early Voting and on Election Day. The PVA will remain open for its state-required inspection period. Both offices and the building will close at 4 p.m.

City hall will also be closing at noon Friday for the service as will the Crittenden County Circuit Court Clerk's office. 

Boil Water Order on US 60 in county


Crittenden-Livingston Water District has issued a boil water advisory for customers along U.S. Highway 60 area from New Salem Church Road to New Union Church Road.

Customers in the affected area are advised to boil water for at least 3 minutes before drinking, cooking, brushing teeth or making ice until the advisory is lifted.

May 19 Primary in Crittenden County

 

Click image to enlarge

NEWScast | Join Our Tour Today

Let's take a tour of your newspaper



 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Boil Water Order Lifted in Marion

 The boil water order imposed over the weekend for Creekside Apartments in Marion has now been lifted.


OBITUARY | Deputy Rick Coyle

Deputy Rick Coyle

Richard Joseph “Rick” Coyle, 58, a devoted husband, beloved brother and uncle, and a lifelong public servant, passed away on April 30, 2026 at his home in Marion, surrounded by family.

Rick lived a life rooted in service and unwavering integrity. A Chicago native, Rick started his career at the Will County Sheriff’s Department. He then dedicated 28 years to the Chicago Police Department, where he served on the Special Operations and SWAT teams, earning the respect of colleagues for his loyalty and humility. After retiring from Chicago, Rick continued his calling in law enforcement, working with the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department in Kentucky where he served as a school resource officer. Known for his ability to connect with others, he was described as a “true community servant” with a “big heart” who made a lasting impression on everyone he met.  

Rick’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Jami; his sister, Annamaria; his brother-in-law, Robert; his beloved nieces, Jessica, Marissa, and Amanda, along with their husbands, Matt and Andrew; and his mother-in-law, Marguerite. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Richard and Carmela, and father-in-law, Roy. He was a constant source of strength, humor and guidance to them all and his presence will be deeply missed.

Rick will be remembered as courageous, compassionate and dependable. From the streets of Chicago to the close-knit community of Crittenden County, he gave his life to protecting others and strengthening the communities he called home. He lived with purpose and was deeply loved by all who had the privilege to know him. Rick’s legacy lives on in the lives he protected, the community he strengthened and the family he loved so deeply.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Friday May 8 at Rocket Arena in Marion with private committal services to follow. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Chicago. The family encourages memorials to take the form of donations to organizations that honor fallen officers including Supporting Heroes at supportingheroes.org and the Chicago Police Memorial Fund at cpdmemorial.org