Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

January 10, 2025 Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s proposed budget cuts threaten the funding of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, which supports a vital communication network for emergency services and public alerts. The potential loss of over $3.6 million could jeopardize infrastructure relied upon by law enforcement and local emergency responders, endangering public safety. Continue reading Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

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Time to make some noise about cancer in Iowa

January 10, 2025 Gary Dickson

Iowa has the second-highest cancer rates in the U.S., with a sharp rise in breast, prostate, and lung cancer cases, particularly in Northwest Iowa. Concerns about agricultural pollution and the lack of legislative action have prompted local meetings to urge citizens to advocate for clean air and water. Voter influence is essential for change. Continue reading Time to make some noise about cancer in Iowa

Crime, JusticeLeave a comment

Troy Cooke sentenced to prison Monday

January 8, 2025January 8, 2025 Gary Dickson

Troy Cooke, 51, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl and two years for bestiality, with both sentences served concurrently. The judge cited Cooke’s lack of accountability and violation of trust. He is eligible for parole after seven years and must register as a sex offender. Continue reading Troy Cooke sentenced to prison Monday

Healthcare, JusticeLeave a comment

Company seeks to block lawsuit over death, citing arbitration agreement

January 8, 2025 Gary Dickson

A wrongful death lawsuit against Fonda Specialty Care nursing home, stemming from Marvin Jacobs’ suffocation, may be dismissed due to an arbitration agreement signed by his family. The nurse involved, Becky Sue Manning, faced criminal charges for neglect. State inspections revealed failure to clear Jacobs’ airway prior to his death in February 2023. Continue reading Company seeks to block lawsuit over death, citing arbitration agreement

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Troy Cooke, guilty of sexual contact with a child and bestiality, to be sentenced next week

January 3, 2025January 3, 2025 Gary Dickson

Troy Cooke, convicted of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, as well as bestiality, faces sentencing on Jan. 6. The former bounty hunter was convicted in a jury trial of a sexual contact charge and pleaded guilty to bestiality. Continue reading Troy Cooke, guilty of sexual contact with a child and bestiality, to be sentenced next week

Crime, North Sioux City, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Matt Vanderpool charged for similar offenses involving second victim

January 3, 2025January 5, 2025 Gary Dickson

Matt Vanderpool has been charged with sexual offenses against a second victim. He also has had his bail reduced and is now living with his parents in Iowa. A motions hearing is set for Jan. 6. Continue reading Matt Vanderpool charged for similar offenses involving second victim

Government, Iowa, PoliticsLeave a comment

What to expect from the 2025 Iowa legislative session

January 3, 2025 Gary Dickson

Iowa lawmakers will reconvene on January 13, 2025, focusing on property taxes, higher education reform, and immigration policy. With supermajorities in both chambers, Republicans plan to prioritize property tax legislation, while Democrats aim for bipartisan solutions on public education and childcare. Tensions may arise over potential Medicaid work requirements and immigration laws. Continue reading What to expect from the 2025 Iowa legislative session

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Former South Dakota attorney general fights suspension of Iowa law license

January 3, 2025 Gary Dickson

Jason Ravnsborg, former South Dakota attorney general, faces a proposed six-month suspension of his Iowa law license following his impeachment after a traffic accident that killed pedestrian Joe Boever in 2020. He contests the suspension, arguing its severity and alleging government interference in the investigation. A hearing is scheduled for January 22, 2025. Continue reading Former South Dakota attorney general fights suspension of Iowa law license

Crime, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 11/22 – 12/28/2024

January 2, 2025 Gary Dickson

Between November 22 and December 28, 2024, the Union County Sheriff’s Office reported various incidents, including traffic warnings, citations, arrests, and assistance to other agencies. Most activities involved enforcing traffic laws and responding to welfare checks, with significant operational time dedicated to the Alcester region. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 11/22 – 12/28/2024

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Man arrested for allegedly trying to strangle woman in Beresford