News

A string of late-night vehicle break-ins across Richmond has led to felony charges after police recovered stolen property, surveillance footage and witness statements linking two suspects to the crimes, according to court documents.

A former Ray County employee has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the county, alleging she was fired in retaliation after reporting what she described as unethical conduct and an abuse of power involving a prosecutor’s relationship with a criminal defendant. In a petition recently filed in Ray County Circuit Court, Joslynn Marco, a former victim advocate, sued Ray County, claiming she was terminated in retaliation for reporting concerns about alleged misconduct by Prosecuting Attorney Camille Johnston.

For more than a century, the Richmond Kiwanis Club has found ways to serve the community, raising money for youth projects through meals, tournaments and special events. Now in its 102nd year, the club is turning to a new tradition — its first-ever Spaghetti Luncheon.

A $300,506 generator purchase will power Ray County 911’s new emergency facility, ensuring backup electricity as the multimillion-dollar project moves forward. The board approved the contract with Clifford Power after reviewing three competing proposals.

Chunks of concrete falling from a bridge in Henrietta and buses breaking dashboards on rough gravel roads pushed residents to demand immediate fixes, warning Ray County leaders that safety is at stake.

Ray County officials are grappling with keeping the sheriff’s department equipped and reliable, weighing fleet leases, radio shortages and even converting jail space to handle more 24-hour holds. Enterprise Fleet Manager Regina Lindell and Ray County Sheriff’s Office command staff, including Sheriff Gary Blackwell, Major Tom Noon and Captain Amy Sisson, met with commissioners to review options for rotating patrol vehicles.