Prestonsburg, Ky – Floyd County’s FEMA flood buyouts are on hold again. Judge‑Executive Robbie Williams says the process, which already takes two to three years, has been slowed by recent federal shutdowns affecting Homeland Security and FEMA. He says the county is still encouraging people to apply for new FEMA homes at Cliffside through the Big Sandy Area Development District. Williams says the homes are good, clean and safe housing options for flood‑impacted families.
Pikeville, Ky – A former Pike County teacher indicted on child exploitation charges will have to wait for arraignment. Zachary Hill’s hearing was postponed this week. Hill faces charges of promoting the use of a minor and tampering with evidence. Prosecutors say he was a teacher at Shelby Valley High School and allegedly had inappropriate contact with at least two students in 2023. Investigators say the case took longer due to electronic evidence, including Snapchat messages. Hill was arrested last week. A new court date is set for April 22.
Prestonsburg, Ky – A new stop sign is coming to downtown Prestonsburg to help slow down traffic. Business owners say speeding cars have made the area dangerous, especially for pedestrians. Janie Tincher, co-owner of Lad N’ Lassies Children’s Boutique, says she’s seen several close calls near her store. City leaders are now installing a solar-powered, flashing stop sign along Court Street to get drivers’ attention and improve safety. Mayor Rick Hughes says the goal is to slow traffic and prevent accidents. The city hopes to have the new sign in place soon.
Floyd County, Ky – A Floyd County man has been found guilty of manslaughter in connection to a deadly shooting. A jury convicted Larry Johnson of first-degree manslaughter on Wednesday and recommended a 20-year sentence. The case stems from an April 2025 incident in Auxier, where Johnson shot and killed Steven Adkins following an altercation. Witnesses say Johnson approached Adkins after spotting him on a bridge, and after a brief struggle, retrieved a gun and opened fire. Adkins later died from his injuries.