MARTIN COUNTY, KY – Sentencing has been delayed again for Terry Melvin, a former lieutenant at U.S. Penitentiary Big Sandy in Martin County, who pleaded guilty to federal charges for conspiring with other staff to assault inmates. Melvin admitted that at least 17 employees used inmate abuse as an “unofficial policy” to reduce complaints and were rewarded with promotions and money. Prisoners who refused to withdraw safety complaints were assaulted, and false incident reports were filed. Melvin’s sentencing, originally set for May, is now scheduled for April 2, with prosecutors requesting another delay. He faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced.

 

MAGOFFIN COUNTY, KY – A Magoffin County man, Phillip Harmon, has been indicted in federal court for failing to register as a sex offender. Harmon previously pleaded guilty to rape in 2008 in Ohio and served ten years in prison. Federal officials say he failed to register as a sex offender for the last four years, which could result in up to 10 years behind bars if convicted. Harmon is currently held at the Lorain Correction Institution in Ohio and has been ordered to appear for arraignment in Pikeville on November 19.

 

PIKE COUNTY, KY – A Pikeville man, John P. Charles, age 63, has been arrested and charged with leaving the scene of an accident-causing death after allegedly fleeing a crash in Mingo County, West Virginia, which occurred two years ago. Authorities say Charles was driving a black Ford Explorer that collided with a moped operated by Tommy Sherpinkas near Edgarton on June 26, 2023. Witnesses on the scene told police that Sherpinkas identified Charles as the person involved before dying from his injuries on July 4, 2023. Charles was identified by witnesses and police noted damage to his vehicle consistent with the collision. He is currently being held at Southwestern Regional Jail in Holden, West Virginia, on a $10,000 cash bond.

 

MARTIN COUNTY, KY – Martin County Sheriff John Kirk issued a warning about an ongoing insurance scam in the county. A man is going door-to-door, pretending to discuss life insurance policies and trying to gain entry by acting familiar with residents. Once inside, he urges homeowners to call a phone number to “make changes” to their life insurance. Sheriff Kirk cautions residents not to let strangers into their homes or share personal or policy information. Anyone encountering this individual or similar request should contact the Martin County Sheriff’s Office at 606-298-2828