Inmate Who Escaped From A Nebraska Correctional Facility Caught In Franklin County, Texas
Another Nebraska Escapee Has Yet To Be Located
A search for two men who escaped from Nebraska Community Corrections Center-Lincoln on May 21 lead officials to Franklin County, Texas, and apprehension of one inmate who escaped from the Nebraska correctional facility just after daybreak Friday, June 5.
According to Franklin County Sheriff Ricky Jones, his office received information June 2 that the two Nebraska escaped convicts were possibly hiding in south Franklin County. An investigation was opened. FCSO investigators obtained a search warrant on June 4 for a residence in Sandy Acres development of Lake Cypress Springs, where the escapees were reported to be staying.
NDCS photo)
This morning, FCSO investigators and deputies, assisted by the US Marshals’s Fugitive Task Force, Texas Rangers and Mount Vernon Police Department, executed the warrant. Escapee Brandon Shane Britton was taken into custody shortly after day break, following a short pursuit, Jones reported in a news release.
The second escapee, Ronald Raymond Taylor, was not at the residence and, as of the 4:30 p.m. June 5, report had yet to be located.
Officials believe Taylor had left the area, as he was last seen 5 days ago in Franklin County. However, Sheriff Jones cautions the public to remain vigilant in watching for Taylor.
Taylor, 52, is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall,, who weighs approximately 255 pounds, is balding with a salt and pepper mustache and goatee. He was last seen wearing red shorts and a white t-shirt. He may be driving a 2-door, primer gray passenger car with a loud exhaust or may be hitch-hiking, according to the news release.
Jones urges the public not to make contact with Taylor if they believe they have seen him, but instead to call 911 immediately.
Sheriff Jones offers thanks to the US Marshals Service and members of the Fugitive Recovery team, which includes officers and deputies from Bowie County Sheriff’s Office, Texarkana Police Department, Marshal Police Department, and Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Ranger Division for their assistance with the case.
(NDCS photo)
According to Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, Ronald Taylor and Brandon Britton escaped from Community Corrections Center-Lincoln on May 21.
CCC-Lincoln is a “community custody” facility, the lowest custody level and the least restrictive environment. Individuals assigned to the facility participate in a work detail or work release program, according to Nebraska Department of Correctional Services.
Both Taylor and Britton were reported to have removed the electronic monitoring devices they were wearing, enabling their escape from the Nebraska correctional facility, Nebraska ABC affiliate N-TV reported on May 21.
According to NDCS, this is not the first time Ronald R. Taylor has escaped from custody. He entered NDCS for the fourth time on Oct. 30, 1997, to serve a sentence of 24 years and 9 months for 5 charges, at the time of his escape on May 21. That includes 10 years each for escape and assault by a confined person, a 1-year sentence for possession of a controlled substance except marijuana, a 3-year sentence for theft. and a 9-month sentence for possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine. Taylor had one parole hearing in 2010 and was next eligible for a parole hearing in Sept. 2020. Otherwise, Taylor’s projected release date was May 14, 2020, according to NDCS.
Brandon S. Britton, 43, was serving a 10-year sentence in NDCS at the time of his escape on May 21, 2020, according to NDCS records. Britton had been in custody since Jan. 23, 2018, serving 10 years each on a first-degree assault conviction and a manufacture or distribution or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine conviction; and on a possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, an offense with a punishment range of 3-5 years. Britton was eligible for parole on Feb. 17, 2023, with potential release the next day, when he escaped, according to NDCS online records.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report – May 27-June 2, 2020
May 27
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on Loop 564 near Mineola; at approximately 12:24 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:28 a.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a motorcycle from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2306 near Mineola; at approximately 7:50 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 1336 near Yantis; at approximately 8:31 a.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 1858 near Yantis; at approximately 11:55 a.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2306 near Mineola, at approximately 12:28 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies made contact with the reporting party and determined no criminal trespass was committed.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 12:59 p.m., in reference to a scam on Village Circle near Yantis. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 1795 near Big Sandy, at approximately 1:20 p.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3495 near Hawkins, at approximately 1:23 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies made contact with the alarm company and everything was OK.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1885 near Yantis, at approximately 1:38 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 3:33 p.m., in reference to possible theft on HWY 80 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 4:13 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and they separated for the night.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 4:24 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies made contact with the alarm company and everything was OK.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 2111 near Quitman; at approximately 4:53 p.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2128 near Quitman, at approximately 5:08 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies located the individuals and advised them not to fish off of the roadway.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1975 near Yantis, at approximately 7:53 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat. Deputies made contact with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1800 near Yantis, at approximately 11:09 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
May 28
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on HWY 37 near Quitman; at approximately 2:35 a.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 2966 near Quitman; at approximately 3:14 a.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 3:55 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 9:38 a.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2696 near Hawkins, at approximately 12:16 p.m., in reference to burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, broke into the reporting party’s shop and stole several items. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 1795 near Hawkins, at approximately 4:42 p.m., in reference to burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, cut the lock on the reporting party’s gate and stole several items from the property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:58 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole copper wire from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4200 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:31 p.m., in reference to damage to property. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s property.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 1795 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:51 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. The individual was located and transported to the hospital by EMS.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2269 near Mineola, at approximately 8:52 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 154 near Yantis; at approximately 9:03 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3984 near Quitman, at approximately 9:28 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3846 near Hawkins; at approximately 9:38 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
May 29
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 154 near Yantis; at approximately 12:29 a.m. Heather Crawford, 34, of Quitman, was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3846 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:33 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s vehicle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- At 9:42 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 3955 near Hawkins.
- Deputies were dispatched to Lake Quitman, at approximately 11:06 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1670 near Alba, at approximately 11:40 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2320 near Mineola, at approximately 11:43 a.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole medicine from the reporting party’s property.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4494 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:00 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- At 2:03 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Mineola.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2251 near Mineola, at approximately 2:48 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2230 near Mineola, at approximately 4:28 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
- Deputies were dispatched to PR 6938 near Alba, at approximately 6:36 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4730 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:14 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Paul Maggard, 41, of Winnsboro, was arrested for Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence and Assault by Contact.
- At 8:22 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
- At 8:27 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 182 near Alba.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3473 near Hawkins, at approximately 10:14 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
May 30
- At 2:39 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966 near Yantis.
- At 6:30 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 7:00 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the day.
- At 10:22 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 11 near Winnsboro.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 1:09 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:07 p.m., in reference to burglary on CR 3520 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- At 5:53 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2298 near Mineola, at approximately 7:48 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. All parties involved left, prior to the deputies’ arrival.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 8:45 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:12 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass on Waterfront near Quitman. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to PR 7421 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:17 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies located the individuals and advised them to lower the volume of the music.
May 31
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2175 near Quitman; at approximately 12:11 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 2:47 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies made contact with the individual and everything was OK.
- At 6:15 a.m., horses were reported out on CR 4150 near Quitman.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4895 near Winnsboro, at approximately 8:28 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1487 near Quitman, at approximately 10:33 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Actors, or actors unknown, were on the reporting party’s property without authorization.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 1795 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:20 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
- At 1:14 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 778 near Mineola.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4530 near Winnsboro, at approximately 3:38 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a motorcycle from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3860 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:20 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several items from the reporting party’s vehicle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
- At 8:27 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2265 near Mineola, at approximately 8:50 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any vehicles.
- Deputies were dispatched to Kickapoo near Quitman, at approximately 9:39 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 49 near Hawkins; at approximately 10:16 p.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the incident.
June 1
- Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 2306 near Mineola; at approximately 4:24 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 8:06 a.m., in reference to theft on FM 17 near Alba. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:29 a.m., in reference to harassment on HWY 80 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- At 9:41 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 3425 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:46 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2128 near Quitman, at approximately 1:58 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
- Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Yantis, at approximately 3:51 p.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle on FM 515 near Yantis. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4150 near Quitman, at approximately 5:59 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:14 p.m., in reference to a scam on CR 2842 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to PR 6938 near Alba, at approximately 7:22 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 7:43 p.m., in reference to an abandoned watercraft. This case has been forwarded to other agency.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on Lake Holbrook point; at approximately 10:10 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 14 near Hawkins; at approximately 11:06 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
June 2
- Deputies were dispatched to Main St. in Yantis, at approximately 10:01 a.m., in reference to a dispute. The parties left the area, prior to the deputies’ arrival.
- Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 49 near Mineola; at approximately 5:07 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4925 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:24 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 1426 near Quitman, at approximately 5:45 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 4430 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:57 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. James Courson, 54, of Winnsboro, was arrested for Terroristic Threat of Family/Household.
- At 6:10 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Mineola.
- Deputies were dispatched to Loop 564 near Mineola, at approximately 6:14 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies made contact with the key holder and everything was OK.
- Deputies were dispatched to CR 2264 near Mineola, at approximately 7:17 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individuals.
Agency Assists
Between the dates of May 27 and June 2, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency
assists that included the following: Mineola Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, Quitman
Police Department, Child Protective Services and Game Wardens.
Jail Count
Total jail count – 133 inmates: 112 males and 21 females.
Sheriff’s Reminders
- Sheriff Castloo would like to remind everyone: If you have any information on these or any other crimes, please contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office at 903-763-2201 or Crime Stoppers at 903-763-CASH.
- Contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office if you notice any suspicious vehicles or activity around your neighborhood. Please be aware of your surroundings.
‘Higher Love Movement’ Set for Peaceful and Inclusive Protest on Celebration Plaza
The protest slated for Saturday June 6th, 2020 has a title, a heart felt mission, and two passionate organizers. The ‘Higher Love Movement’ plans to stage a peaceful and inclusive protest on Celebration Plaza from 10AM until 6PM Saturday.
We are hoping for a ‘peaceful hippie vibe’ says co-organizer Karla Pizano. “This protest is about getting people together, and talking about these issues.” said Pizano. “Higher Love is different that normal love like you would have for your grandmother. Higher love is obtained by loving a stranger completely.”
Although not directly affiliate with the march scheduled for the same day, they hope their protest will add to the discussion. The pair hope that people will participate in both events. Kiegan Lobin says he will be on Celebration Plaza all day long.
On the Issues
Pizano and Lobin have many thoughts on political issues here in Hopkins County and the United States. “We think that the only way to correct the issues facing America is by voting out elected officials, and voting in people with experience in these issues.” said Lobin.
Lobin and Pizano plan to place their full support behind local City Council candidates they feel are better able to relate to social issues. “If you ask any black person, they will tell you their own personal stories about racism.” said Lobin. “We support minority candidates for Sulphur Springs City Council, not because they happen to be black, but because they have the ideas.”
The pair point to the gradual militarization of police departments in America as another issue. They feel this problem started in the 80’s. Institutional Racism is also on their minds.
When asked about specific political issues facing Hopkins County, Lobin mentioned the “Trump Divide”.
Local issues are not the pair’s only concern. They plan to also support the decriminalization of marijuana and THC statewide in Texas. “Marijuana and THC is right now a back burner issue for us, but we feel it’s a important one.” said Lobin.
Two Wildcats Sign With College to Continue Athletic Endeavors
During signing ceremonies Thursday afternoon (June 4), Wildcat Colton Bench signed a letter of intent to play golf at San Diego Christian and Wildcat Cameron Kaufert inked a letter to play football at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall.
Colton Bench is the son of Brian and Terri Bench. Bench said a couple of months ago, he was contacted by a coach he knows. The coach said he had just been hired to be the first ever golf coach at San Diego Christian and he added he wanted Bench to come play for him. San Diego Christian is a four-year NAIA school. Bench said he only took up golf in the summer before he entered the eighth grade. He said he has worked hard on his golf game in high school and added he has gotten better at it than he ever imagined. Bench said he would be a business manager and might also get a real estate license after graduation.
Kaufert, who played B-back and defensive end for the Wildcats, is the son by Bobby and Stephanie Kaufert. Kaufert said he was contact by ETBU after his junior year. He said it was his first offer and they were very persistent. Kaufert said they liked him as a defensive end citing his height, speed and reach. He said he would have to bulk up some for the college game but he doesn’t want to sacrifice speed to do it. He said they encouraged him to visit Marshall. Kaufert said it felt like home, was a beautiful town and he said God seemed to direct him to go there. He said he might also get a look at tight end for ETBU. Kaufert will be attending the Marshall school with his best friend, Wildcat Tennis player Jonah Kirkpatrick, who is also heading to ETBU on a tennis scholarship. Kaufert said he wants to become a critical care nurse to work with children who have cancer.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Coach Owens Announces Major Athletic Awards Winners at Brief Ceremony Thursday Evening
In lieu of a senior awards program or an all sports athletic banquet, Wildcats Athletic Director Greg Owens announced this part school year’s winners of the James Cameron Fighting Heart Award and the Forrest Gregg MVP Award at a brief event Thursday evening (June 4) in the Multipurpose Building. The winners were nominated and voted on by Wildcats and Lady Cats coaches. Coach Owens said few votes separated the nominees. Winners of the Forrest Gregg MVP were state qualifying powerlifter and track member Sable Erdmier, softball, basketball and volleyball player Kate Womack, football jack of all trades and soccer goalie Noe Ponce and track, cross country and soccer player Namian Ramirez.
Winners of the James Cameron Fighting Heart Award were track, cross country and volleyball player Sydney Washburn, football player and soccer goalie Eleazar Brena, football player Chase Haney and basketball player Grayson McClure.
Coach Owens said the awards were about a lot more than just athletics. He said they were about who the players were as a person, their work ethic and how well they represented the school district, the athletic program, themselves and their families.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Sulphur Springs Opens The Edge Conditioning Program Monday
Wildcats Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Greg Owens told KSST Thursday that with the approval of the UIL, The Edge conditioning program would get underway Monday (June 8). As you can imagine in the age of coronavirus, Coach Owens said The Edge would look quite different this year. He said there would be an emphasis on distancing, how many people could be in the weight room and how many people could be in groups and inside. Coach Owens said temperature checks would occur as athletes arrive. Those with fever or COVID-19 symptoms would be encouraged to see a doctor and would not be admitted. More details are available at the school district website at www.ssisd.net. Those with questions may also send email to Coach Owens at [email protected]. Coach Owens said current planning is for June. The Edge will feature summer conditioning, sports training and specific sport skills work. The plan involves lots of different sports at different locations. The Multipurpose Building will be the site for football only. Athletes involved will be from incoming 7th graders to incoming 12th graders. 11th and 12th graders will be at The Edge from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. Coach Owens said he expected each day to have about half an hour of both agility and weights and an hour of football skills. 9th and 10th graders will be there from 10 a.m. until noon. 7th and 8th graders will have sessions from noon until 1:30 p.m. Coach Owens said athletes must have a medical physical on file to participate. Incoming 7th graders will need to have a physical. Coach Owens said football players will need to bring cleats, flat shoes and their own labeled water bottles. He encouraged players to keep stuff in a backpack. Players will not be able to drink from water fountains. They can use the fountains to fill their water bottles. Coach Owens said he is excited about seeing the players again. For months now, contact has been limited to phone calls and Zoom sessions. Wildcats Basketball will have The Edge at the High School Gym. There are expected to be three sessions a day. Lady Cats Volleyball and Lady Cats Basketball will have The Edge at the two Middle School Gyms. Sessions are expected to have high school athletes from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. and then middle school athletes from 10 a.m. until noon. Wildcats and Lady Cats Cross Country athletes will do The Edge at Gerald Prim Stadium. Wildcats Tennis players will have The Edge at the Wildcat Tennis Center. Wildcats and Lady Cats Soccer players are expected to gear up in July.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
June 5 Update: 2 New COVID-19 Cases In Hopkins County, 1 Additional Recovery
Hopkins County’s COVID-19 Case Total Since MidMarch: 29 Cases, With 7 Recovered And 22 Active Cases
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom at 2:30 p.m. Friday, June 5, announced 2 new COVID-19 cases in Hopkins County; one additional person also has been confirmed as recovered from COVID-19.
“This is not necessarily good news today. We are in a mini-surge compared to some of our neighbors,” Newsom said. “Most of our cases are in homes, isolated. I believe things are working well here in Hopkins County. I think we will continue to experience this for a short time more.”
One of the new cases is in city and the other case is in county. All new COVID-19 cases are considered community spread at this time, according to Newsom.
The two additional cases and 1 additional recovery bring Hopkins County’s total since midMarch to 29 cases of COVID-19, 22 of which are active cases and 7 individuals have recovered.
Hopkins County Emergency Management Coordinator Andy Endsley said the 2 new patients are at home isolating. The Local Health Authority will be reaching out to the individual to see if there are any immediate needs which aren’t being met.
Newsom said the two new cases are not in homes in which other patients have previously been reported to their knowledge.
Hopkins County officials said they are not aware of any Hopkins County COVID-19 patients in the hospital or nursing homes.
Group to Protest on Celebration Plaza
Here is a story with updated information.
KSST was contacted Friday morning, June 5th, 2020 regarding a proposed protest in Downtown Sulphur Springs, TX. On the phone, the organizer was unable to provide details about the event, and stated this was due to the event being in a planning stage. Additional details of the protest became clearer after KSST contacted Sulphur Springs Police.
A spokesman for the Police Department stated, “The protest will be from 10 AM until 6 PM, Saturday June 6th”. The Police discussed with the organizers ways to keep the protest peaceful, and notified the organizer of rules and regulations concerning assemblies.
KSST has reached out to protest organizers, but have not received a call back.
The march planned for the same day is not associated with the scheduled protest.
March, Speakers and Voter Registration Saturday June 6th, 2020
A peaceful march through Sulphur Springs will start at 11:00 AM Saturday June 6th, 2020. March organizers Reiko Alexander and Brittany Abron told KSST that the event will be peaceful, and help bring all people together.
Before the march, several events will take place. At 10 AM, voter registration will be held at Pacific Park. Local ministers and regional officials will also be speaking. Several speeches will take place, not only at Pacific Park, but also during the march route and at Celebration Plaza.
Sulphur Springs Police will be providing an escort during the march. A SS Police spokesman stated, “Public safety is our priority, we want to make sure everyone is safe.” SSPD will be providing traffic control.
The parade will form on Martin Luther King Drive at Pacific Park. It will then head west to Gilmer and head north to Main Street. Speeches and an 8 minute pause will be observed. Then the march will head south on Oak Avenue and return to Pacific Park via MLK.
Wylie Man Arrested On Grand Larceny Warrant
A 39-year-old Wylie man was arrested on an out-of-town grand larceny warrant Thursday night.
Sulphur Springs Police Sgt. Josh Shufeldt conducted a traffic stop on a blue Lexus GS June 4, 2020 on Shannon Road at Bill Bradford Road. A records check reportedly revealed one occupant of the vehicle to be wanted by Love County officials (the state was not noted in arrest reports).
Consequently, Shufeldt arrested Phu Phong Nguyen at arrested at 9:13 p.m. June 4 on the outstanding grand larceny warrant. The car was impounded. Nguyen remained in Hopkins County jail Friday morning June 5 on the warrant; bond was set at $10,000 on the charge, according to arrest and jail reports.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
