Pikeville, Ky – The City of Pikeville has reached a tentative agreement with its cable provider to settle the city’s lawsuit over service and contract violations. The city had sued the parent company of Optimum, formerly Suddenlink, alleging poor service, unfulfilled upgrades, unpaid fines totaling 1.2 million dollars, and rate hikes for what it called “captive customers.” A federal court filing says the parties met Tuesday and reached a “voluntary resolution in principle,” with terms under seal, and the deal still needs Pikeville City Commission approval and final paperwork by Feb. 17 before the case is dismissed.

 

Lexington, Ky – Former Letcher County sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines, accused of shooting and killing District Judge Kevin Mullins, is expected to testify in a federal civil trial. Officials report the case involves allegations of sexual misconduct and coercion in the Letcher County Courthouse, including claims a former deputy demanded sexual favors so a woman could avoid home incarceration fees. Stines is listed as a witness and is expected to testify about alleged sexual activity involving female inmates and conversations, he had with Judge Mullins and others. The civil trial is scheduled to begin March 3 in federal court in London, Kentucky.

 

Perry County, Ky – Perry County authorities need your help locating a stolen dirt bike. Deputies say a red 2023 Honda CRF four-fifty-R was taken from Baker Street in Combs on December 18. If you have any information on where the bike might be, contact the Perry County Sheriff’s Office or Perry County E-9-1-1. Your tip could help bring this stolen dirt bike back to its owner.

 

Prestonsburg, Ky – The Floyd County Health Department says there have now been ten confirmed cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, in Floyd County this year. The illness is highly contagious and can be especially dangerous for infants, older adults and people with weak immune systems. Symptoms can start with a runny nose, low-grade fever and mild cough that may progress into coughing fits and extreme fatigue, often appearing a week to ten days after exposure, and sometimes up to 21 days. Health officials urge residents to check that DTaP and Tdap vaccinations are up to date, practice good hygiene, and contact a healthcare provider or the Floyd County Health Department at 606-886-2788 if symptoms develop.