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SMITH COUNTY — A Smith County grand jury has handed down an indictment against a Tyler man for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. According to our news partner KETK, Victor Ortiz, 23, was arrested October 4, 2019, for the alleged attack and is facing third-degree felony charges. Documents did not indicate how the incident started or what Ortiz’s relation was to the victim. Ortiz will have his case in the 7th District Court with Judge Kerry Russell presiding. His first court date has not been scheduled. Ortiz has past convictions for misdemeanor drug possession and traffic violations. If convicted, Ortiz faces up to ten years in prison for the attack.

CARTHAGE  — The funeral for Panola County Sheriff’s Deputy Chris Dickerson will be held Saturday afternoon at 2:00 at the Carthage Civic Center. Deputy Dickerson died after being shot numerous times during a traffic stop early Tuesday morning. Authorities say Gregory Newson, of Shreveport, was arrested about an hour later following a high speed police chase in Louisiana. Deputy Dickerson spent eight years with the Panola County Sheriff’s Department. In 2018, he and two other deputies received an award from the East Texas Council of Governments for saving a woman trapped in a burning home. Donations for Deputy Dickerson’s family can be made through the East Texas 100 Club or at the Panola County Sheriff’s Office.

NAVARRO COUNTY — A Tyler woman died early Wednesday in a crash near Richland. According to our news partner KETK, Pamela Coffman, 60 of Tyler, was discovered in a vehicle submerged in Richland Creek around 3:30 p.m. on the I-45 East service road. The Corsicana Daily Sun reported that Coffman’s 2010 black Ford F-150 pickup was traveling south on the service road, which is a dead end road. It’s not known why the pickup failed to stop at the end of the roadway, causing it to strike an embankment and vault into the water. The accident remains under investigation.

CARTHAGE — Panola County Sheriff’s Deputy Christopher Dickerson will be laid to rest Saturday. According to our news partner KETK, the U.S. Honor Flag will be present to honor Deputy Dickerson. Dickerson was shot and killed in the line of duty earlier this week on a rural road near Carthage. The suspect Gregory Newson of Shreveport is awaiting extradition back to East Texas. Arrangements for Deputy Dickerson are as follows: Visitation will be Friday, from 5:30-8:00 PM at the Carthage Civic Center. The Funeral will be on Saturday, at 2:00 PM at the Carthage Civic Center, with burial to follow in the Restland Memorial Park Cemetery.

LONGVIEW — A Parking citation in Longview is about to become more costly. On Thursday the Parking Compliance Officer begin distributing informational notices to all vehicles parked in downtown parking spaces that a new $14 state-mandated fee will now be imposed. Most downtown street parking is limited to 2-hours from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. during weekdays. Previously a parking violation would cost $ 7, the same violation will now cost $21.

TYLER — The Tyler Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is inviting the public for an open house that will be held with the focus of amending the Transportation Improvement Program. The purpose of the TIP is to list the transportation improvements that are scheduled to be implemented within the next four years. The meeting scheduled for Jan 7, kicks-off a ten-day public comment period, that runs through Jan. 17. Continue reading Tyler Area MPO to Host Open House

TYLER — The Kick-Off Event for Lighten Up East Texas 2020 , now in it’s 8th year, is this Saturday. On Thursday Terrence Ates told KTBB, “this is not a contest for who loses the most number of pounds, this is actually a lottery for anybody that loses a little bit of weight.” Ates continued, “if you lose 5% of your body weight, you will have an equal chance to win this year’s grand prize which is going to be $5,000 cash.” The weigh in will take place inside Broadway Square Mall from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Continue reading Kick-Off Event Saturday for Lighten Up E TX 2020

Van Zandt County — A New Years Party turned deadly in Canton. Early Wenesday morning officers responded to a shooting resulting in the death of Alan Bates, 61, of Plano. According to witnesses Bates became involved in an argument earlier, that couple left before things continued to escalate. Authorities were told at a point later on, Bates became upset again this time was asked to leave. Continue reading New Years Party Turns Deadly

TYLER — Many celebrated the end of 2019 with parties, and resolutions. Several East Texans rung in the year in the process of having new babies. On Wednesday Brittany Storey introduced KTBB to one of the newest babies of the decade, “Her name is Hayven, she is 7lbs and 8 oz, she has little black curls on the top of her head, she looks a lot like her brother, absolutely adorable.” Fred Storey said resolutions were easy, “I just want to be the best Dad I can be for both of my children, to be there for them, and to provide them with everything that they need.” Continue reading New Year, New Babies, Same Joy

TYLER — On Tuesday the Better Business Bureau serving Central East Texas finished up 2019 with a list of the Top Ten Scams of the year. “Scam artists are not going anywhere. In many cases, we’ve seen them become more aggressive, Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas said. “Whether it’s online or over the phone, we must remain vigilant when it comes to protecting personal and financial information.” Continue reading BBB Names Top Ten Scams of 2019

MARSHALL — A majority of residents have been given the “all-clear” to return home after a gas well blowout a week ago on Christmas Day. As a result of that blast, residents found temporary residence. According to our news partner KETK, Mark Brandon, CEO of Tanos Exploration gave a press conference on Tuesday stating they have allowed residents to return to the area but under caution. Continue reading Residents Cleared to Return Home

TYLER — Tyler Police are searching for a suspect wanted following a shooting Tuesday near downtown Tyler. Tyler Police Detective April Molina told KTBB that the case is still under investigation, a man had to be taken to the hospital after being shot near S.Kennedy Avenue and West Dobbs Street. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Officials did determine there was an exchange of gunfire between the victim and the suspect. Continue reading Gunman Sought following Tuesday Shooting

SMITH COUNTY — Smith County Deputies have arrested a Flint man after finding methamphetamines and firearms in his vehicle. According to our news partner KETK, on Monday, a Smith County deputy observed individuals standing around a truck parked at a convenience store on Hwy 155 in Flint. When the deputy approached the area, the individuals fled the scene in different directions. Authorities found the owner of the vehicle, Zaccereth Drake Silva, 23, of Flint, to have an outstanding warrant for a parole violation. The deputy requested K-9 assistance who alerted authorities of narcotics within the vehicle. The deputy found a large amount of methamphetamines, five handguns, a rifle and significant amounts of cash. One of the handguns was reported stolen. Continue reading Flint Man Busted with Meth, Firearms

PANOLA COUNTY — Sheriff Kevin Lake says, “Law enforcement agencies were able to capture the suspect who shot and killed Deputy Chris Dickerson around 2 a.m. Tuesday. Sheriff Kevin Lake says multiple Texas Rangers have been processing the crime scene. According to our news partner KETK, the suspect has been identified as Gregory Newson, who was able to leave the scene, but was arrested in Shreveport after crashing his car and being chased on foot. Newson has been charged with capital murder.

TYLER — Roberts and Roberts Law firm is reminding people to be safe throughout the New Years Celebrations, with their annual ‘The Ride is on us’ campaign. According to our news partner KETK, the initiative has been running for several weeks. Organizers say the intent is to prevent drinking and driving during the holiday season. The law firm is providing Tyler and Longview residents free rides home through January 1st. Organizers say as long as you’re within the city limits of Tyler or Longview, you can be picked up from wherever you are and dropped off at your house. Call Tyler Car Service at (903) 592-3232.

TYLER — The Glass Recreation Center has re-opened following a $100, 000 dollar face lift of the original structure. The city of Tyler’s Adriana Rodgriguez told KTBB on Tuesday, “the center has had a major renovation including new work out equipment, a refinished gym floor, paint, and maintenance among other items. Glass Rec Center is also offering a new year kick-off membership for $25, for the entire year. The incentive will run from the 1st through the end of the month of January. You can get more details, including rental fees, and special classes offered by clicking the link. https://www.cityoftyler.org/government/departments/parks-rec.

CHEROKEE COUNTY — A transition is happening in Cherokee County as the community shifts from Rave Mobile Safety to a new system. According to our news partner KETK, officials are asking people that live with-in the area and that are current subscribers to update information through out the new system. If you do not receive ‘Code Red’ alerts, they ask that you subscribe to receive the notifications in case of an emergency. Continue reading New Code Red System in Cherokee County

LONGVIEW –The Longview Chamber is ready to roar into the new decade announcing The 2020 Annual Banquet. Dana Parr, Chairman elect for 2020 told KTBB on Tuesday that now is an exciting point in time, “This year marks a significant time for the Longview Chamber and community.” The Banquet begins with a reception at 5:15 p.m. on January 28, at Maude Cobb Convention Center. For more information, contact Stephanie Raudales at the Chamber Offices at 903.237.4000, or register online at http://www.LongviewChamber.com. Continue reading Longview Chamber Announces 2020 Celebration

GREGG COUNTY – Deputies with the Gregg County Sheriff’s office released a statement saying the inmate who escaped had initially been missing for three days before his escape was discovered. According to our news partner KETK, Jace Martin Laws escaped from the Gregg County Jail on December 23 but was found to be missing on December 26 when reports were made to the media and public. Authorities say Laws carved out portions of the brick in the South Jail, gaining access to the building infrastructure, and making his way to the exterior Gregg County Courthouse. He was found the following morning on December 27 off US 271. Continue reading Gregg County Inmate’s Escape Was Not Discovered for 3 Days

MARSHALL — A purported human smuggler is nabbed in East Texas. Deputies in Harrison County pulled over a small minivan during the weekend, carrying 17 illegal immigrants. Sheriff Tom McCool said the van was bound for Memphis, Tennessee. ICE agents and Homeland Security personnel captured 16 of the van’s 39 occupants, and the deputies transported the driver to the county jail on a charge of smuggling persons.

MARSHALL — A gas well blowout that resulted in 45 residents evacuated from their homes on Christmas day, could be returning home on Tuesday. According to our news partner KETK, Tano Exploration begin work to restore the well on Sunday. “My HR team met today with all of the evacuees at the hotels went by talked to them we allowed any of those that wanted to go back to there homes to get any essentials,” said Mark Tanos, Tanos Exploration Company. “The Harrison County Sheriff’s Department went down and escorted them down there.”

LINDALE — East Texas officials were involved in a multi-County chase on Sunday.According to our news partner KETK, Lindale Police responded to a theft in progress at a Walmart. Roderick Butler, 25, of Denton was arrested following pursuit that continued into Gregg County before his arrests. The vehicle Butler was behind the wheel of was reported stolen out of Waxahachie. Continue reading Multi-County Chase after Robbery Suspect Steals Vehicle

GREGG COUNTY — A civil lawsuit against Nancy Motes convicted of kidnapping and assaulting a Kilgore Rangerette in 2016 has been postponed. According to our news partner KETK, Rangerette Director Dana Blair and her daughter Alexa are suing Motes for damages in Gregg County District Court. Motes pleaded guilty in April to two counts of aggravated kidnapping. Police were called to a robbery in progress and learned that Motes had taken Alexa Blair at gunpoint, in December 2016. Continue reading Woman Convicted of Kidnapping Rangerette Has Civil Case Postponed

TYLER — The Tyler Senior Center is preparing for their 14th annual Pre-New Year’s Eve dance. According to our news partner KETK, the community is welcome to attend the event which will be held at the Rose Garden. It starts at 7 p.m. and tickets cost $20. Organizers say Dr. Otis Webster, is billed as the man with the golden voice, will be providing the entertainment. The night promotes plenty of dancing and heavy appetizers.

SMITH COUNTY — The Smith County Sheriff’s Office is looking for assistance in the location of a man accused of theft. According to our news partner KETK, David Dwayne Melton, 53, is accused of taking between $2,500 up to $30,000 worth of property. Officials have not released what they believe has been stolen. Melton is white, around 5’8″, an weighs approximately 220 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. If you have any information that could lead to his whereabouts, contact the Smith County Sheriff’s Office at 903-590-2784 or 903-566-6600.

LONGVIEW — A Gladewater man is in the Gregg County Jail after being arrested over the weekend. According to our news partner KETK, Ryan Bradford, 29, is accused of stealing a vehicle in Gladewater and then leading Longview Police and DPS officers on a chase. Bradford was stopped and arrested without incident by DPS troopers at Hwy 80 and Loop 281 in Longview. He is in the Gregg County Jail on charges of evading arrest/detention with a vehicle, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and evading arrest/detention. Bradford’s bonds total $40,000. No injuries were reported.

UPSHUR COUNTY — A Gilmer woman has bonded out after being arrested on charges of misapplication of fiduciary property and theft by public servant. According to our news partner KETK, Kristen Denson, 45, is a former Harmony school teacher and president of the Harmony Band Booster Club and is accused of stealing money from the booster club. The Harmony School District filed a report regarding missing funds from the band booster account. Investigators say Denson has taken $27,000 dollars from the booster account over a three year period.

GREGG COUNTY — One person has been arrested after a man was discovered dead with a gunshot wound. According to our news partner KETK, deputies responded to a welfare concernon Pegues Rd. in Easton early on the 27th. Deputies discovered Larry Coleman deceased with an apparent gunshot wound. Deputies arrested a suspect, Nicholas Coleman at the scene. Investigators say that Nicholas is the son of Larry Coleman. Coleman is in the Gregg County jail on a charge of murder with a $500,000 bond, with a history of crime dating back to 1998.

LONGVIEW — The deadline is quickly approaching for Longview residents to subscribe to their emergency ambulance care and service program. Our news partner KETK reported Saturday that residents would pay $70 a year which covers unlimited emergency transports and coverage for all eligible household members. Last day to sign-up is Wednesday. Continue reading Deadline Approaching for Longview EMS Program

TYLER — The City of Tyler Solid Waste Department and Keep Tyler Beautiful is providing 2 locations for Christmas tree and wreath recycling. Residents can bring non-decorated, non-flocked, natural Christmas trees and wreaths through Jan. 19. Golden Road Park is located on McDonald Rd. and Fun Forest Park is on N Forest Ave. All lights, ornaments, garland and tinsel should be removed from the Christmas trees and wreaths before drop off. Continue reading Christmas Tree Recycling to Runs through Jan. 19