Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Solves Multiple Burglaries; Three Arrested
January 24, 2018 – Following a month long investigation, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Investigator Dennis Findley and deputies have arrested three individuals for burglary of a building in Miller Grove, theft at LaPooch Pet Resort, burglary of a habitation, and thefts in Rains County and Bowie County.
A warrant for the arrest of Ashlee Swilling, 29, of Cumby, Nathan Allen Martin, 30, of Conway, Arkansas, and Robert Stephens, 39, led deputies to observe a green 2017 Jeep Renegade pulling into Subway in Sulphur Springs. Investigator Wade Sheets was called to the scene and arrested Swilling and Martin.
Ashlee Swilling, 29
Criminal Investigator Dennis Findley said the investigation began when the burglary in the Miller Grove area was reported. A number of foot prints were found at the scene and other evidence was gathered. It was found that three people were involved. The three had conspired in that burglary and two, Martin and Stephens, had been involved in other burglaries in the Miller Grove area.
Robert Stephens, 39
Property taken in the robbery at LaPooch, valued at over $600 has been recovered. Most of the $1500 in property taken from the Miller Grove storage buildings has been recovered, according to Findley. He said some is still at pawn shops and some of the property had been discarded in a pool. In the next two weeks, the DPS dive team will be called out to recover the property at the bottom of the pool.
Thefts in the Rains County area included chain saws. Findley said some of the chain saws have been recovered and others have been found in a pawn shop in the Rockwall area. Wednesday morning, thefts of two four wheelers in Bowie County have also been uncovered. He said the location of the four wheelers has been confirmed and they will be recovered later today.
Nathan Allen Martin, 30
Stevens was also involved in taking a iPad from Miller Grove school.
All three are in Hopkins County Jail. All three are charged with Engage in Organized Criminal Activity. Swilling and Martin are held on a $50,000 bond each. Stephens is held with no bond set.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report January 10-16, 2018
January 10th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1810 near Yantis, at approximately 1:58 a.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated and the scene was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to Geronimo near Quitman, at approximately 7:30 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. John Payne, 47, of Quitman, was arrested for Criminal Trespassing.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 10:38 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1807 near Yantis, at approximately 10:55 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and Idalou Fry, 29, of Sulphur Springs, was arrested for Criminal Trespass of a Habitation/Shelter/Superfund Site/Infrastructure Facility.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1513 near Yantis, at approximately 2:10 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass warning.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:51 p.m., in reference to credit/debit card abuse that occurred on Cactus Cove near Hawkins. A known actor used the reporting party’s credit/debit card without authorization. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 3:14 p.m., in reference to a dog bite that occurred on FM 312 near Winnsboro. The owner of the dog was advised of the quarantine protocol.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1681 near Alba, at approximately 4:08 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 312 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:25 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies located the noise and advised the individuals to lower the volume of the music.
At 6:34 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4250 near Winnsboro.
At 7:33 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1410 near Quitman.
January 11th
Deputies were dispatched to College St. in Alba, at approximately 2:21 a.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 11:22 a.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on FM 49 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4137 near Quitman, at approximately 12:14 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2503 near Mineola, at approximately 1:14 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Misty Williams, 41, of Mineola, was arrested for Disorderly Conduct.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 1306 near Quitman, at approximately 3:17 p.m. Candice Smith, 33, of Quitman, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on FM 69 near Como, at approximately 10:01 p.m. Tamela Owen, 54, of Alba, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
January 12th
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5387 near Yantis, at approximately 3:50 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4530 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:26 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 11:08 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 312 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to Arapaho near Quitman, at approximately 2:07 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4918 near Quitman, at approximately 3:23 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a lawnmower from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2840/CR 2842 near Mineola, at approximately 8:27 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2660 near Mineola, at approximately 10:08 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the vehicle inside the Mineola city limits and the call was transferred to Mineola Police Department.
January 13th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle at Lake Holbrook; at approximately 12:50 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Choctaw near Quitman, at approximately 10:30 a.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole medication from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1917 near Yantis, at approximately 12:32 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies gave advice to the reporting party and cleared the scene.
At 5:43 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966/FM 515 near Yantis.
January 14th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2100 near Quitman; at approximately 12:42 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2330 near Mineola, at approximately 8:21 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 71, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace arrived and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to Valley Wood Trail near Hawkins, at approximately 10:00 a.m., in reference to burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, forced entry into the residence but no items appeared to be stolen.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 10:48 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s mailbox.
Deputies were dispatched to Hwy 154 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:08 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2378 near Alba, at approximately 1:29 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies located the activity and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 182 near Alba, at approximately 6:58 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Deputies located the actors and everything was OK.
At 8:13 p.m., horses were reported out on CR 1630 near Alba.
January 15th
At 3:13 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 312 near Winnsboro.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 10:24 a.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 4691 near Winnsboro. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1681 near Alba, at approximately 11:04 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located the suspicious activity and everything was OK.
At 1:25 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2869 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1600 near Alba, at approximately 1:56 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4583 near Winnsboro, at approximately 2:58 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party at approximately 7:10 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief that occurred on Whitedove near Quitman. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s vehicle. This case was forwarded to investigators.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 2880 near Mineola, at approximately 8:37 p.m. Steven Ayers, 54, of Mesquite, was arrested for Unlawful Carry of a Weapon, Possession of Controlled Substance, and Possession of Marijuana.
January 16th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4530 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:30 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2540 near Mineola, at approximately 8:16 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 84, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace was notified and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3494 near Hawkins, at approximately 3:48 p.m., in reference to a hospice inquest. A male, 72, was found deceased in his residence. The funeral home was notified.
Deputies were dispatched to Holly Lake Ranch gate, at approximately 5:42 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged property inside the ranch.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 1210 near Quitman, at approximately 9:11 p.m. Randel Clanton, 42, of Quitman, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana.
Deputies responded to an abandoned vehicle on FM 49/FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:09 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party at approximately 11:26 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 3496 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Between the dates of January 10 and January 16, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: ____.
Between the dates of January 10 and January 16, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators filed 5 cases with the District Attorney, obtained 3 arrest warrants and arrested the individuals.
Total Jail Count – 147 inmates – 121 males and 26 females.
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.
Soccer: Wildcats Win; Lady Cats Cancel Due to Flu
Wildcats Soccer 2, Pittsburg 0
The Wildcats’ soccer team won their home season opener 2-0 over Pittsburg Tuesday night at Gerald Prim Stadium. The Wildcats scored goals in the first half and the second half. Julio Robles and Angel Tavera scored for the Wildcats. Wildcats Soccer Coach Nicky Wiggins said the Wildcats’ defense played very well. He said the team missed a lot of opportunities to score more goals. The Wildcats improved their season record to 7-6. Next the Wildcats open district play at home against Pine Tree on February 2.
Lady Cats Soccer at Lindale, canceled
The flu bug caused cancellation of the Lady Cats’ soccer team’s game at Lindale Tuesday. Lady Cats Coach Joel and several of his players have caught the flu. The Lady Cats JV did travel to Lindale and played a game. The Lady Cats are 7-2-3 for the season. They will play Chapel Hill in a non-district match at Gerald Prim Stadium next Tuesday night.
Basketball: Wildcats, Lady Cats Continue to Dominate District Play
Wildcats Basketball 62, Pine Tree 41
The #7-ranked Wildcats depended on big second and third quarters to defeat Pine Tree on the road, 62-41 Tuesday night. The Wildcats led only 9-8 after the first quarter. The Wildcats outscored the Pirates 16-6 in the second quarter and they led at the half, 25-14. The Wildcats outpointed Pine Tree 19-6 in the third to lead 44-20 after three quarters. Pine Tree outscored the Wildcats 21-18 in the last quarter but it wasn’t enough as the Wildcats won 62-41. Victor Iwuakor led the Wildcats with 15 points. Keaston Willis had 13 points. Godsgift Ezedinma and Jeremiah Roland scored 7 points each. Michael Jefferson scored 6 points. Dedric Godbolt and Grayson McClure had 5 points apiece. Iverson Wade and Day Day Hall scored 2 points each. The Wildcats remained unbeaten in district play with a 7-0 record. They improved their season record to 24-3. The Wildcats return to Wildcats Gym Friday night as they play host to Marshall.
Lady Cats Basketball 59, Pine Tree 28
The #9-ranked Lady Cats’ basketball team started fast, swooned a little in the second quarter but then dominated the second half for a 59-28 win over Pine Tree in Wildcats Gym Tuesday night. The Lady Cats led 22-4 after the first quarter. Pine Tree cut into the lead in the second quarter but still trailed the Lady Cats, 26-14 at the half. The Lady Cats outscored the Lady Pirates, 33-14 over the last two quarters. Sadavia Porter and Kaylee Jefferson both scored 20 points. Autumn Tanton scored 11 points. Te’Arria Rose and Danielle Godbolt scored 3 points each. Imani Taylor had 2 points. Porter hit two three-point baskets. Jefferson, Godbolt and Rose made one three-pointer each. The Lady Cats made 50% of their shots hitting 24 of 48. The Lady Cats made 31% of their three-point shots making 5 of 16. They made only 32% of their free throws converting 6 of 19. Jefferson had a double-double with 11 rebounds. Porter had a team high six assists. The Lady Cats had 9 deflections and 14 steals. The Lady Cats had only 12 turnovers. The Lady Cats are now 9-0 in district play and 23-3 for the season. The Lady Cats play next at Marshall Friday night.
Meet the North Hopkins Homecoming Court
By: Amy Sprague and Faith Wheeler [Editor’s Note: KSST welcomes North Hopkins students Faith and Amy as interns for the spring semester.]
2018 is here and so is the North Hopkins homecoming. Friday January 22 the North Hopkins panthers will welcome the Dallas Gateway Gators onto their home court and after the game the North Hopkins Homecoming Court will be presented and a new Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned.
Members of the Homecoming Court include: Freshman Prince and Princess; Kaden Penny and Kortni Ferrell. Sophomore Prince and Princess; Brennen Hicks and Madison Joslin. Junior Prince and Princess; Breeanna Hicks and Ryan Reed. The Queen nominees include Mattie Hall, Railey Lemond, and Kayci Nymeyer.
This is the first year North Hopkins will be presenting Prince and King candidates on the homecoming court. So, for the first time the King nominees are: Connor O’Bryan, Trey Patterson, and Chase Williams.
Left to right: Brennen Hicks, Madison Joslin, Ryan Reed, Breanna Hicks, Kortni Ferrel. Not pictured: Kaden Ferrell
Left to right: Kayci Nymeyer, Trey Patterson, and Connor O’Bryan. Not Pictured: Mattie Hall, Railey Lemond, and Chase Williams
Video Presentation: Gibson Seeks City Council Place 2
Sara Gibson, who has lived in Sulphur Springs for 54 years, filed to seek Place 2 on the Sulphur Springs City Council. A second generation business owner, her campaign theme is “Focusing on the Future”.
Ms. Gibson is no stranger to civic service. She served as a member for the Planning and Zoning Board in the late 1990’s and was one of the first members of the Downtown Revitalization Board. Her father, Bill C. Watts, served on the city council and was Mayor of Sulphur Springs during his time on the council as well.
She was married to the late Carey Gibson, a Sulphur Springs native, for 36 years. She has two sons, Luke and Jake. Although moving to Sulphur Springs as a young child, she says that as an adult, she chose Sulphur Springs to be her home.
“We raised our sons her and had an amazing life here. It is time for me to carve out a new future here, too.”
Video Presentation: Lucas Files for Place 2 on City Council
Jimmy Lucas filed for Place 2 on the Sulphur Springs City Council on the afternoon of the first day to file. A native resident of Sulphur Springs for 54 years, Lucas said choosing this city as his home has been key to his success in life, and it’s time for him to give back. If elected, Lucas plans to address the growing challenges facing the community including road repairs, taxation and business development outside of downtown. Additionally, fire/rescue, police services, parks and recreation and senior citizen services are a top priority for Lucas.
New Sign Highlights PJC-Sulphur Springs Location
HIGHLIGHTING THE CAMPUS Workers were busy this week putting a new highway sign at the sight of the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center campus on Loop 301 East. The campus was a little hard to spot from the loop and the Jefferson Street intersection, but this sign will make locating the campus a lot easier — even from the IH 30 service road.
Sky Warn Class Set for Thursday, January 25
A Sky Warn Class will be taught by the National Weather Service, Thursday night, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Sulphur Springs City Hall. It is open to the public. The program is offered free and preregistration is not necessary. The class is for storm spotters as well as anyone with an interest in learning more about severe weather.
