Former Radio Manager/Talent Arrested Monday
Craig “Moose” Morgan was booked into Hopkins County Jail Monday afternoon, March 20, 2017 following a two week investigation that will be ongoing, according to local law enforcement. Morgan, former President and lead talent for The Way Radio Group and former Chief of the North Hopkins Fire Department, had been removed from management of the group by his partners and as chief by the Volunteer Fire Department. Morgan was best known as host of “Moose in the Morning” on Thunder Country FM 107.1 in Sulphur Springs.
Morgan has been charged with a Felony 3 Theft and with Giving False Statement to Obtain Property or Credit, a State Jail Felony. According to Dr. Darrel Pierce, now President of the The Way Radio Group, the current charges stem from Morgan’s mismanagement at the radio station. Dr. Pierce stated that much of the theft was found in the operations’ day to day financial discrepancies. Although he limited his comments due to the ongoing investigation, Dr. Pierce said the group is currently unsure of the exact amount taken from the radio stations that make up The Way Group.
Dr. Pierce said the radio group is forming a new LLC partnership that will remove both Morgan and his wife from the group and will be reworking their radio license with the Federal Communication Commission.
He said the members of the group, which include Dr. and Mrs. Darrel Pierce, Mr. & Mrs. Mike Morgan, Mr. and Mrs. Benny Johnson, Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Andy Endsley, and Mr. and Mrs. Mark Sustaire, became involved in the venture specifically because of the Christian Radio Station.
Wednesday night, March 15, 2017, the North Hopkins Volunteer Fire Department announced a change in administration. The press release was issued one week following the departure of Craig “Moose” Morgan as Fire Chief. According to the release Morgan is no longer associated with the department. The announcement follows a change in management at The Way Radio Group where Morgan was listed as President. Bobby Harris, a member of the NHVFD and also a partner in The Way Radio Group, has been named Interim Fire Chief.
The North Hopkins Fire Department announced a change in its administration on March 15th, although the change was made March 8th of this year. Morgan is no longer the Fire Chief or associated with NHFD according to a press release they issued. The Interim Fire Chief is Bobby Harris.
The Way Radio Group, in a press release recently, stated they will continue to provide Christian music through one station they operate and will be changing the format of another. They will continue their events scheduled as well.
Meal A Day Menu for March 20th-24th
Tossed Salad
Former Resident Injured in Dirt Bike Accident
Hunter Culpepper 21,of China Springs, TX, formerly of Sulphur Springs, was critically injured in a dirt bike collision Tuesday morning, March 14, 2017 when a deer ran out in front of him.
He was careflighted to Baylor Scott and White- Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco with extensive head injuries. Hunter remains in intensive care.
Hunter has a very long recovery ahead of him. There is a gofundme.com account setup to help the family with medical and travel expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/hunt
Man Wanted By ATF Found in Hopkins County
An Indiana man is in Hopkins County Jail following his arrest in the 1400 block of Industrial. Robert Leonard Ofcky, Jr, 57, was arrested after local law enforcement spotted a 2000 Gold colored Ford Ranger at the location. The license plate was covered with the state name not showing.
Ofcky was wanted on three warrants including two issued by the ATF in Washington DC. He was wanted for Unlawful Making and Possessing an Explosive Device, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and a LaPorte County Indiana warrant for Possession of a Destructive Device.
He is in Hopkins County jail being held without bond.
Deputies Sought Felon; Three Arrested for Organized Crime
March 20, 2017 – Three individuals were arrested in the 200 block of Houston Street Sunday morning at 8:39 a.m. when Hopkins County Deputies were searching for a wanted felon.
When they arrived at the scene, deputies heard a possible verbal disturbance in the residence. They also found in plain view in the living area a crystal like substance believed to be methamphetamine and more controlled substance on a mirror in plain view in the same room. The location is in a drug free school zone. During a pat down of one of the subjects, a glass pipe was found. Multiple paraphernalia was also located in the living area.
Arrested at the scene were Julie Dexter Davis, 25, Dakota Shane Humphries, 20, and Jamie Lee Lindsey, 27, all of Sulphur Springs.
DAVIS, JULIE DEXTER is in Hopkins County Jail Charged with Engage in Organized Criminal Activity and is being held on a $30,000 bond.
Humphries is charged with Engage in Organized Criminal Activity and is being held on a $30,000 bond.
Lindsey, is also held on a $30,000 bond for Engage in Organized Criminal Activity.
Child Dies From Injuries; SSPD Investigating
Sulphur Springs Police are investigating an incident in which a vehicle struck a child on property located on Church Street Sunday, March 19,2017, at 5:55 p.m. A six year old child, Tessa Nicole Skeen, was struck and killed when a vehicle was being moved on the property. Jason Ricketson, Patrol Captain for SSPD, said the accident investigation will continue today.
Lady Trojans Tie for First at State Powerlift Meet
When the Cumby Lady Trojans Powerlifting headed to Waco for the state meet on Saturday, March 18, They took four qualifiers to state. As a team the Lady Trojans tied for first place with Irion County. Irion was named first based on more first place lifts. The Lady Trojans earned second place as a team.
Cheyenne Jones with her Best Squat Plaque
Cheyenne Jones a junior in the 105 lb weight class earned her third state medal placing 2nd at the meet with her personal best total of 675 lbs. Her 285 lb squat also claimed her award of outstanding squat on the light platform. Ashley Hagood a junior placed 4th in the 148 lb weight class with a total of 785 lbs earning her 2nd medal at state level. Newcomers to medal Samantha Hagood in the 165s and Elizabeth Thomas in the 198s. Sam a junior placed 2nd in her weight class with a total of 770 lbs. Elizabeth (Izzy) a senior placed 4th in her weight class with 855 lbs total.
In photo: Samantha Hagood, Cheyenne Jones, Elizabeth Thomas, and Ashley Hagood
Coach Tom Dracos said, “I couldn’t be more proud of our girls. They really showed up today. There was a really cool part of the day. Saman that picked up 325 to secure her 2nd place and 30 seconds late Cheyenne Jones dead lifted 255 lbs to put her in first. Great moment! Unfortunately a girl deadlifted 285 lbs to tie Cheyenne for 1st. Cheyenne weighed more than the other lifter so she got 2nd. 1 lb….The difference between 1st and 2nd. 1 lb the difference between State Champs and State Runner Ups. Cheyenne and I joked on the weigh home that we were 1 quesarito(her favorite) away from 1st! Bet she gets it next year!
5 Popular Texas Day Trips That Are Do-able If You Live In Hopkins County
by Allison Bledsoe
Day trips are one of my favorite things about living only 80 miles from Dallas. Dallas and it’s neighboring cities have so much to offer, so I compiled a list of 5 popular day trips to keep you busy this spring (and I even tried a few out for you!).
1. The Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo is roughly 2 hours from Hopkins County and definitely worth the drive! I’ve visited the zoo in Tyler and the Dallas Aquarium several times growing up and had to give the Fort Worth Zoo a shot. It’s safe to say I was not disappointed. Also, on Wednesdays they offer half-price admission!
2. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum borders White Rock Lake and offers one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen! I decided to make a stop here when I discovered their “Flower Power” 60s themed exhibit. They have a VW Van and Beetle on displayed filled with flowers! If you have kids and are planning on making a visit, check out their Children’s Garden and any special events they may have for the day of your visit.
3. Magnolia Market at the Silos (Waco, Texas)
This one is for all my Fixer Upper fans! Magnolia Market is around 2 and a half hours from Hopkins County in Waco, Texas. Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper have expanded their Magnolia Market into an old Silo they remodeled and it is gorgeous! If you plan to visit soon, take note that they are closed on Sunday.
4. Deep Ellum, Dallas, Texas
Elm St. is one super fun place to explore and be inspired. The 42 Murals Project has brought people from all around to this neighborhood. It’s good for the soul (and your latest Instagram post)! Oh, and I’d be doing you a huge disservice if I didn’t beg you to stop at Pecan Lodge on your next visit– best.BBQ.ever.
5. Texas Tulips (Pilot Point, Texas)
I couldn’t just leave Texas Tulips off this list. This stop has easily become one of the hottest day trips in the past two years, it’s like they brought the Netherlands to Texas and Texans are LOVING it! But hey, Pilot Point is just a little under two hours from Hopkins County! (Pro-tip: Close-toed shoes, I hear it’s a little muddy)
Wildcats Stay Perfect in District with Friday Win
Efficiency was the key feature of the Wildcats’ baseball team Friday night as they topped Marshall, 2-1 at Eagle Stadium. Pitcher Triston McCormick threw just 77 pitches in a complete 7-inning game as he scattered 8 singles and allowed only a single earned run. He struck out 4 and issued no walks.
In the Wildcats big bottom of the third inning trailing 1-0, they utilized just one hit and a sacrifice fly to score 2 runs. Marshall pitcher Trevor Clark hit a wild streak in the inning and he issued one out walks to Mason Buck, Kaden Argenbright and Heston Golightly. McCormick tied the game with a sacrifice fly ball to left field deep enough to score Buck. Ryan Humphries followed with a hot single to left field. The Mavericks’ left fielder bobbled the ball slightly and that allowed courtesy runner Ty Lopez to score all the way from second base. Coach Jerrod Hammack never hesitated and waved Lopez around third base.
The Mavericks missed an opportunity to tie the game in the sixth inning because of the Wildcats defensive play of the night. Marshall had runners on second and first, both with singles with two outs when Ty Kirkland drilled a single into right field. Wildcats’ right fielder Jamal Hobson-Cox grabbed the ball on one hop and fired a strike to catcher Argenbright who had to wait to tag out Mavericks’ runner Clark out at the plate in plenty of time. Marshall also threatened in the top of the seventh with two singles with one out. McCormick struck out Mavericks lead off hitter Jake McMullen and got number two hitter Cameron Haller to foul out to Wildcats first baseman Kamren Harrison to end the game.
The Wildcats are now 2-0 in district play and 8-5-1 for the season. Marshall slips to 0-2. The Wildcats will travel to Texas High next Tuesday night to face another of the district’s top teams.
Harrison Announces Intent to File for County Court at Law Seat
SULPHUR SPRINGS – March 17, 2017 – Assistant District Attorney Clay Harrison announced that he will seek the Republican nomination for the office of Hopkins County Court at Law Judge, currently held by Republican Amy Smith. Judge Smith, who also served as an Assistant District Attorney, recently announced that she will retire when her term expires in December 2018.
Harrison, a life-long resident of Hopkins County, graduated from Sulphur Springs High School and attended The University of Texas at Austin where he was a Group Commander in the University’s Air Force ROTC program. After graduating from college, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force at age 20. He then attended Baylor University’s law school on a full academic scholarship.
After taking the bar exam, Harrison joined the Air Force Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps and served as a military attorney at Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, Georgia. For two years, he practiced a variety of law on behalf of U.S. service members including wills, probate, family law, and civil law. “When you’re practicing law in the military, things work a little differently,” Harrison said. “Military members come from all 50 states, so when you’re drafting a will or advising on family law, you have to take into account where the client is from. Being a Texas attorney living in Georgia while advising on Arkansas family law and drafting Alaska wills was quite an experience.”
Harrison was later assigned to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Chief of Military Justice for one of the Air Force’s largest overseas bases. He supervised a team of attorneys, paralegals, and clerks and oversaw criminal cases for the 7,500 member base. He prosecuted numerous criminal cases involving child pornography, sexual assault, drugs, and theft.
In 2010, he was deployed to the tropical island of Mindanao in the Southern Philippines in support of counterinsurgency operations against the Abu Sayyaf (“Bearer of the Sword”) terror group. The Abu Sayyaf organization made its reputation as a particularly violent jihadist threat, specializing in kidnapping for ransom operations. As the lone attorney for a joint special operations unit of Navy SEALs, Army Special Forces, and other combat soldiers, he advised military commanders on the law of war and rules of engagement. He also directed an intelligence program that rewarded local civilians for providing information on high value enemy targets.
He separated honorably from the Air Force in 2012 in order to return home to Texas. In 2013 he wrote The Great and Terrible Wilderness, a novel, and made the transition from military JAG to civilian prosecutor.
Harrison joined Will Ramsay’s team of prosecutors at the District Attorney’s office in October 2014. Since then, he has tried 22 fully litigated cases to the jury or to the court, written 9 appeals, and had several notable jury trials.
In November 2015, he tried Mark Covington, a captain in the Aryan Circle according to gang experts, for witness tampering. Covington received a life sentence from a jury.
In January 2016, he tried Stanton Yates as the leader of a home burglary ring that spread across Hopkins County. Yates received a life sentence from a jury.
In March 2016, he tried Hunter Dixon for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. After initially pleading Not Guilty, Dixon changed his plea during trial to guilty and agreed to 40 years in prison without parole.
Also in March 2016, Harrison tried Scott Shine for Engaging in Organized Crime. Texas DPS Narcotics officers dubbed Shine “the biggest meth dealer in Franklin County.” Shine was sentenced to life in prison by a jury.
In December 2016, Harrison worked closely with law enforcement to secure guilty pleas from Dustin Garcia, Christopher Chambers, and several other members of an organized ATV theft ring. Garcia received a 28 year sentence and Chambers received 15 years. Due to aggravated parole rules, both leaders will have to serve half of their sentences before being eligible for parole.
Also in December, Harrison tried Daniel Arnold of Franklin County for shaving the heads of his two children while a CPS investigation was pending into methamphetamine use. Arnold was sentenced by Judge Eddie Northcutt to the maximum of 10 years in prison.
Outside of work, Harrison and his wife lead the Crossover young adult ministry at The Way Bible Church, are active in Crossfit, and are expecting their first child in April. Harrison is the son of Dr. Juan and Mrs. Sheri Harrison, both career educators. His wife Tara is the daughter of Mike and Sandra Gibby of Birthright. Harrison recently published his second book, The Stubborn Texan, a conservative defense of the U.S. Constitution.
Contact: Clay Harrison 903-243-3118
Email: [email protected]
