Louisa, Ky – A Lawrence County man faces multiple charges after two incidents Wednesday. Police say Christopher Lee Shannon, 41, was first identified through security footage as the suspect in a battery theft from a military truck at the Louisa city garage. Minutes later, officers responded to a nearby burglary where Shannon was found arguing with a resident. After a brief struggle, he was arrested. Police say Shannon had broken into the home, damaged windows, and tampered with the water heater. He now faces theft, burglary, and assault charges, and is being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville.
Pikeville, Ky – Pikeville Police swept across Pike County Friday in a major drug operation. Officers served 11 sealed indictments for suspected meth and fentanyl trafficking and made four additional arrests, recovering five guns and multiple stolen vehicles. Jail records list seven people charged with drug trafficking, including Anthony Barron, Darren Bartley, Bridget Bolden, Henry Cleaver, James Elkins, Joey Spears, and Brian Young. Police say the investigation is ongoing, with more arrests possible.
Prestonsburg, Ky – The 38th annual Big Blue Crush blood drive—Kentucky’s friendly rivalry with Tennessee—is underway now through Friday at all Kentucky Blood Center locations and mobile drives. Donors can give blood to help ensure a healthy supply for Thanksgiving and score a collectible long-sleeve shirt while supplies last. Appointments are encouraged at kybloodcenter.org or by calling 800-775-2522, but walk-ins are welcome as space allows. Donors must be at least 17, or 16 with parental consent, weigh 110 pounds, and bring photo ID. Kentucky leads the series, having won 22 out of 37 competitions.
Paintsville, Ky – Two Johnson County men received 20-year sentences for meth trafficking in Johnson Circuit Court on November 14. Jeremy Burchett, 49, was convicted of selling drugs near a school, DUI, and multiple felonies, with the sentence enhanced due to his criminal history. Caleb Tackett, 44, was convicted on two counts of meth trafficking. Both cases involved undercover sting operations. Prosecutors say these sentences send a clear message that drug dealers in the community will face serious prison time. Detectives with Kentucky State Police and Paintsville Police were credited for their investigative work.