Fort Worth Woman Sentenced On A Stolen Vehicle Case
A 19-year-old Fort Worth woman has been sentenced on a stolen vehicle case, which Sulphur Springs Police believed to be one of three connected stolen vehicle crashes and multiple burglary cases, which they worked early Friday, Nov. 13, 2020.
Sunny Lea Sweatman appeared before 8th Judicial District Judge Eddie Northcutt in a sentencing hearing. She was accused Nov. 13, 2020 of two offenses, unauthorized use of a vehicle and evading arrest or detention with a vehicle.
A vehicle burglary was reported to be in progress on Houston Street early Nov. 13, while officers were still investigating a suspicious vehicle report that began near the city library the ended with the stolen truck fleeing to Main Street, then crashing into a light pole behind the police department. In an areas where additional suspected burglaries were also being reported, officers spotted on Houston Street and attempted to stop a car being driven with no headlights on. The driver, later identified as Sweatman, reportedly crashed into into a concrete divider or road control device, on Houston Street at North Hillcrest Drive around 2:50 a.m. Friday, Nov. 13, police alleged in the 2020 arrest reports. She was ordered out of the car at gunpoint and taken into custody for evading arrest or detention. Officers later learned the crashed Honda Accord had been stolen from a Main Street address, resulting in the UUV charge, according to the SSPD chief and arrest reports.
The 19-year-old remained in Hopkins County jail on both charges from Nov. 13, 2020 until Jan. 7, 2021; bond on the charges totaled $15,000: $10,000 on the evading arrest charge and $5,000 on the UUV charge.
Sweatman pled guilty on the stolen vehicle charge and acknowledged her guilt in the evading case as part of a what is referred to as a 12.45 agreement or plea, according to prosecutors.
This refers to Section 12.45 of Texas Penal Code which allows a defendant to admit during a sentencing hearing to guilt of one or more unadjudicated offenses and request the court to take each into account in determining sentence for the offense or offenses of which the defendant stands adjudged guilty. While considered the unadjudicated offenses are dismissed.
Sweatman was sentenced to a 12-month commitment in a state jail and ordered to pay a $500 fine on the stolen vehicle charge as well as $500 in restitution. She was taken into custody and jailed Monday, May 10, 2021, on the UUV conviction, according to court and jail reports.
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
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.
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.
SSISD Wildcat Theatre Programs Display Skills In 2 Free Productions
If you like live theater or just supporting local student thespians, you’ll want to be sure to mark May 13 and May 18 on your calendar. The Sulphur Springs ISD Wildcat Theatre Programs will be displaying their skills in two free productions offered on those days.
The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcat Theatre will present Don Nigro’s “Cinderella Waltz” starting at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 13, on the stage at the SSHS Auditorium. While this senior showcase is offered free of charge, donations will be accepted for any who feel generous to help the SSHS theatre program offset costs and provide funding for future productions.
According to Concord Theatricals, the Samuel French, Inc., title tells the story of Rosey Snow, a girl “trapped in a fairy tale world that is by turns funny and a little frightening, with her stepsisters Goneril and Regan, her demented stepmother, her lecherous father, a bewildered Prince, a fairy godmother who sings salty old sailor songs, a troll and a possibly homicidal village idiot.”
“Cinderella Waltz” contrasts the familiar happily ever after fairy tale with the darker, more ancient disturbing tale recorded by the brothers Grimm. Don Nigro’s version is an adult fairy tale which blends “grotesque farce and romantic fantasy.”
The Sulphur Springs Middle School Wildcat Theatre then will offer a musical program at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 18. The SSMS theatre students will perform Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka Jr.,” on the SSMS stage. The doors will open for seating at 7 p.m.
The play is based on Dahl’s classic novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The play features words and music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, which were adapted to the stage by Bricusse and Timothy M. McDonald.
As is the case with the movies based on Dahl’s book, “Willy Wonka Jr.” tells the story of candy manufacturer Willy Wonka’s contest. Golden tickets are hidden in candy bars; those who hold golden tickets win a free tour of the Wonka factory and a lifetime supply of candy – provided they follow Wonka’s rules. Four of the five children who take the tour are brats, while a fifth child, Charlie, is more likeable. Those who do not follow the rules face calamitous consequences.
Chamber Connection – May 13, 2021
By Butch Burney
There are so many recognitions happening lately, and like our Chamber Board President Rusty Posey says, you can’t go wrong recognizing people.
We give a salute to Rowena Johnson, who dedicated her life to teaching our children. She was my third grade teacher her first year teaching, and was a loving, disciplined teacher and principal who touched more children and parents than we will ever know. The SSISD board voted to rename Lamar Primary as Rowena Johnson Primary in a proper memorial. Also, thanks to Coach Cip and his family for all they have done in the community. Best of luck moving forward. Lastly, in the education realm, a warm, thoughtful prayer was given at the National Junior Honor Society ceremony Monday night for dedicated SSMS teacher Senor Mangon in his battle with cancer. Hopkins County is blessed to have so many outstanding educators.
While we’re at it, Hopkins County EMS Appreciation Week is May 16-22, and many events are being organized on their behalf, including luncheons, breakfasts, cards, letter and drawings. Our thanks go out to all first responders.
Chamber Showcase
Plans are being made for the Third Annual Chamber Showcase in early August. This is a fantastic networking event and a way for you, as a business owner or representative, to get your name and services out to the public. Only Chamber members can reserve booths for display (the public is invited to attend free of charge), so contact us at the Chamber to find out how your affordable annual membership not only allows you to rent a booth at the Showcase but gives you advantages and opportunities all year long.
Ribbon Cuttings
The Chamber will be hosting a ribbon cutting at noon Thursday, May 13, for Money Law Firm. The celebration will be held at their Sulphur Springs location, 1335 South Broadway Suite 40, and we would love for you to join us.
Davison Development & Building will be hosting their ribbon cutting on May 18, at noon. We would love for you to join us, at 204B Linda Drive, for a fun celebration with free barbecue and refreshments.
Brookshire’s Food Store in Sulphur Springs is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its updated store, located at 809 Gilmer St., at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 19. There will be a small ceremony inside the store and conclude with a ribbon cutting outside. Brookshire’s Community Kitchen will be there to serve free breakfast, and their 13-foot Big Grocery Cart will be on display. Please join us for this celebration.
Volunteer Fair
The Volunteer Fair on Thursday, May 13, at The ROC has about 20 agencies looking for volunteers. The fair, which is scheduled for 1-4 p.m., will have lots of door prizes and refreshments. If you’re interested in volunteering, it will be a great place to start.
Salute to the Veterans
Also, don’t forget about the 5th Annual Salute the Veterans BBQ Cookoff at VFW Post 8560 on May 14-15. There will be music on Friday night, then the barbecue cookoff is set for Saturday.
Mammography Mobile Coach
The Hunt Regional Tubby Adkisson Mobile Mammography Coach will be at the Spring Village Shopping Center on May 20. To schedule individual screening mammograms, call 903-408-5010. Appointments and pre-registration are requested.
Business Highlight
The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is highlighting a member of the Chamber each week. Please join me in congratulating our Business of the Week for May 10, Latson’s. You can read biographical stories at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page and Instagram page.
County Historical Commission Appointments, Contracts Approved By Commissioners Court
Hopkins County Commissioners Court Monday approved a dozen Hopkins County Historical Commission appointments, a services contractor for storm repair work to county facilities and a space use agreement with the American National Red Cross; they also heard from from a Dike resident opposed to and a Dike property owner in support of the planned Hopkins County Solar farm in the area.
Historical Commission
The Commissioners Court unanimously approved a dozen individuals to serve on Hopkins County Historical Commission for a two-year term.The HCHC members for 2021-22 include:
- John Sellers
- Rick Wilson
- Carlie Penson
- Andrew Froneberger
- Major Willis
- Joyce Bateman
- Josh Willis
- Barbara Hudson
- Bill Glover
- Susan McCary
- Carolyn French
- Paula Altenbaumer
The Texas Legislature authorized counties to establish County Historical Commissions (CHC) to assist county commissioners courts and the Texas Historical Commission in the preservation of our historic and cultural resources. The mission of each CHC is to preserve, protect, and promote these resources, according to the Texas Historical Commission website.
Budget Amendment
County Auditor Shannah Aulsbrook presented for Commissioners Court approval an $86,517.03 budget amendment, insurance proceeds received from Texas Association of Counties, less the $10,000 deductible, for repairs to county facilities due to damage during the winter storm in February.
She said $80,921.76 was designated to go into the courthouse repairs and maintenance fund to to start taking care of repairs and maintenance of the probation office and the county courthouse annex building, and the remaining $5,595.27 is designated for the Civic Center for cost of repairing burst pipes. Repairs at the Civic Center cost a little over $7,000, so some of the deductible had to be paid by the Civic Center.
County Judge Robert Newsom noted that damages to all three county buildings that sustained damages resulting from the winter storm were currently being addressed.
The Commissioners Court approved the budgetary change as recommended by the county auditor
Contracts
The Commissions Court too approved a contract with MTG Engineers & Surveyors for professional services under DR-4416, “Texas Severe Storms and Flooding Under Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.” The contract has to do with the two portable generators to ensure the county obtains the proper size and connections needed. The engineering has already been done, Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley explained, so the county now must enter into contract with MTG part of the grant funding the generator purchases. The court approved the contract as recommended by Endsley to meet grant requirements.
Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker asked where things stand on a generator that was sent off. Endsley said the problem with the generator has been diagnosed, and he could go into more in-depth detail during the work session that was to follow the regular court meeting. That generator would not be suited for emergency use, he said.
Also approved was a three-year space license agreement with the American National Red Cross to allow the group to share space in the old Fidelity Express building just off College Street, which served as headquarters for a state-sponsored free COVID-19 testing site from last fall until April.
“It’s just a renewal of contract. There’s no money exchanged. We just allow them to use that space for their office to do the things they do for us for us for Hopkins County Emergency Management,” explained Endsley. “It’s back to Red Cross, Salvation Army and CERT. They all three share that building there together. Red Cross always is adamant about having a contract with it and they also carry a $1 million liability on the building while they are inside it.”
Asset Disposal
The county officials too were asked and approved the disposal of some sheriff’s office assets. The sheriff’s office is selling 10 vehicles, a vending machine, second row seats for a Chevrolet Tahoe and a Ford Explorer, and two other items. A notice has been posted as required. The items are being sold online at Auctioneer Express. The list of vehicles includes pickup trucks, SUVs and a car.
“There are vehicles that have issues or would bring more at this sale, or were seized property the court has titles for,” Aulsbrook explained.
Public Forum
Dike resident Michelle Barnes, speaking on behalf of residents opposed to the planned solar project slated to begin in September, complained that an individual who spoke out in favor at of the project at a previous meeting doesn’t live in Dike, he just owns property there which he is leasing to the solar company Engie.
“There’s a major difference between actually living in Dike among this industrial power plant and just making making money off a lease with property you own but do not live on. In fact, almost all the people except one that signed the lease with the solar company do not live in Dike. So, how is that fair representation of homeowners when you made the decision to sign the contract,” Barnes said to when addressing the commissioners court during the public forum portion of the May 10 regular court session.
“Trusting the Commissioners Court that we will have a voice and be listened to is what we expect. The fact that our concerns seem to fall on deaf ears does not go unnoticed. I believe there should be representation of the people among the governmental leaders,” Barnes said.
Barnes contends that the Commissioners Court agrees with that sentiment, shown when the court on April 12 unanimously approved a resolution opposing Senate Bill 234 and House Bill 749, “because you believe rural governments will not have a voice in Austin,” which could result in unfair laws and regulations set at the state level and forced upon small rural counties including Hopkins County.
“I am against these bills, but a small fraction of me wants it to go through so you will know exactly how the citizens of Dike feel, in effect, putting the shoe on the other foot,” Barnes told the Commissioners Court.
Tim Fuller, a property owner for the Hopkins County Solar project, however, thanked the Commissioners for their forward thinking in allowing Engie to come in and build the solar project. Fuller noted that he spoke at the prior court meeting, and reiterated Monday that “the properties involved in the project are owned by individuals and we can use our land as whatever purpose within.”
“Again, I thank the commissioners for doing a job that are very seldom thanked. I’ve been here before. I would vote for anyone of you in the next election, preferably each one of you go unopposed,” Fuller concluded.
Beaumont Woman Jailed On Felony Theft Charge
A 34-year-old Beaumont woman ended up in Hopkins County jail on a felony theft charge Sunday afternoon, according to arrest reports.
Mykeya Starlet James allegedly tried to leave Walmart with more than $50 worth of merchandise around 1:40 p.m. May 9, 2021. She reportedly passed all points of sale without paying for the merchandise she had collected in the store. She was detained until police arrived, then taken into custody at the store and jailed for theft of property valued at less than 2,500, Sulphur Springs Police Officer Cameron Robinson noted in arrest reports.
The charge was enhanced to a third-degree felony offense, however, when it was determined James (who is also known by Keya Payne, Mykeya Starlet Payne and Kidd) had three prior theft convictions, one on Aug. 23, 2007; a second on July 12, 2012; and a third on July 11, 2018.
James was released from Hopkins County jail Monday, April 10, 2021, on a $5,000 bond on the third-degree felony theft charge.
James’ jail record in Hopkins County goes back to 2006. Of the approximately 2 dozen times James was arrested, the last two were related to theft charges. She was taken into custody on July 11, 2018, to serve a 6 month commitment in a substance abuse felony punishment facility, part of a sentence for a January 2018 theft of property valued at less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions charge. She returned to Hopkins County jail from March 19, 2019 to May 13, 2019 for violation of probation on the theft charge.
Richardson Man Arrested In Dallas On Hopkins County Warrant
A 28-year-old Richardson man was arrested and jailed in Dallas County on a Hopkins County felony warrant.
After Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office was alerted, Deputy Amanda Weatherford traveled to Dallas County jail, took custody of Joshua Ryan Knox shortly after 1 p.m. May 10, 2021, according to arrest reports.
Weatherford transported Knox to Hopkins County jail, where he was booked at 4:45 p.m. May 10, on the warrant for violation of probation, which he was on for possession of 4 grams or more but less than 400 grams of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance, the deputy noted in arrest reports.
Knock, who is also known by Joshua Ryan Smith, remained in jail on the charge Tuesday, May 11, 2021, on the charge.
He was arrested on the original controlled substance charge on Oct. 7, 2018, after a sizable amount of suspected ecstasy was found in the van he and three others were traveling in, officials reported in arrest reports. He was released from jail on a $30,000 bond on Oct. 8, 2018, according to Hopkins County jail reports.
Knox and his three codefendants were indicted in June 2019 by a Hopkins County Grand Jury on the 2018 possession of 4 grams or more but less than 400 grams of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance charge, according to court 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.
Lady Cats Golfer Mariam Tran Finishes State Golf Tournament Just 3 Over Par
Lady Cats senior golfer Mariam Tran played two good, solid rounds at the Class 5A State Golf Tournament Monday and Tuesday (May 10-11) at White Wing Golf Club in Georgetown.
Tran added a second day round of 1 over par 73 Tuesday to go with Monday’s 2 over par 74 for a two day total of 3 over par 147.
With just less than half of the field still on the course, Tran is currently in 11th place on the leader board just 7 strokes behind the leader.
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 School Boards Approves Coaches Changes Submitted by AD Greg Owens
Meeting Monday night (May 10), the Sulphur Springs School Board approved several coaching changes submitted by Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Greg Owens.
Current Middle School PE Teacher and Coach Easton Silman is moving over to the High School to be a Social Studies Teacher and Assistant Football Coach.
The board accepted the resignations of two current coaches.
Leaving are Varsity Football Cornerbacks Coach and Assistant Softball Coach Kevin Hatcher and Assistant Girls Basketball Coach and Assistant Cross Country Coach Bryan Jones.
Travis Willoughby has been hired as a Middle School PE Teacher and Coach. Trent Easley has been hired to be a PE and Credit Recovery Teacher and High School Coach.
Easley will coach varsity wide receivers on the football team.
Neal Parsons has been hired as a Social Studies Teacher and Coach at High School. Parsons will coach cornerbacks on the varsity football team.
Coach Owens said there would be a few more changes on his coaching staff in the future.
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.
Lady Cats Softball Fans Note Time Change for Regional Quarterfinal Playoff Game 1 Wednesday
Lady Cats Softball Coach David Carrillo says the game time for the Lady Cats first playoff game in their Regional Quarterfinal series with Huntsville in Whitehouse Wednesday (May 12) has changed.
Instead of 6 p.m., it is now at 6:30 p.m. The Friday and Saturday, if needed, game remain the same.
Game 2 is Friday at Rusk at 6:30 p.m. Game 3, if necessary, will be back at Whitehouse Saturday at 2 p.m.
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.
Wildcats Head Basketball Coach Clark Cipoletta Heading to Allen
Wildcats Head Basketball Coach Clark Cipoletta has accepted the position as Head Basketball Coach at Allen High School. Coach Cip confirmed the news by text Tuesday (May 11).
Coach Cipoletta created a basketball culture in Sulphur Springs as Head Wildcats Coach for the past 7 seasons.
He had a record of 150-82 overall as Wildcats Coach but he was 131-40 for the past 5 seasons. His teams captured two district championships.
Coach Cipoletta’s highlight season was 2018-2019 as the Wildcats advanced to the State Tournament for the first time in many a decade.
The Wildcats lost to San Antonio Wagner in a State Semifinal Game. That team ended up 29-9 and was a perfect 10-0 in district play. They were Bi-District, Area and Regional winners.
The Wildcats under Coach Cip also advanced to Regional Quarterfinal game in 2019-2020 and 2017-2018.
The 2017-2018 team set the school record for wins going 30-5.
Last season, the Wildcats were 18-10 and made it to Area. Coach Cipoletta’s Wildcats never lost a Bi-District game.
He served as a Wildcats Assistant Coach for several seasons before becoming head coach. Coach Cipoletta said God has blessed him more than he deserves.
Coach Cip leaves behind a big pair of sneakers to fill.
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.
