Union County Sheriff’s Incident/Activity Report: 8/11 – 8/17

The Union County Sheriff’s Office was involved in various incidents and activities between August 11 and August 17, 2024, including burglary, horse-related issues, transportation of inmates, arrests, assists, and traffic violations. A total of 60 records were reported, with a wide range of law enforcement engagements. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Incident/Activity Report: 8/11 – 8/17

For increasing number of immigrants, a ‘new life in America’ starts in South Dakota

South Dakota’s foreign-born population grew by 45.5% between 2010 and 2022, exceeding the national average by three times. With nearly 32,000 foreign-born residents, mostly from Asia and Africa, the state has the fifth-lowest share of foreign-born residents in the US. Refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo account for the most resettlements in South Dakota. Continue reading For increasing number of immigrants, a ‘new life in America’ starts in South Dakota

Union County jury convicts Sioux City man of sexual abuse of minor

Late afternoon Thursday, Aug. 15, a Union County jury found Troy Cooke guilty of one of two counts of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13. The verdict came after barely one hour of deliberation.

Troy Donald Cook, 51, of Sioux City, Iowa was originally charged on March 27, 2024, by a Union County grand jury with one charge of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, a class 3 felony and two separate charges of bestiality, both class 6 felonies. Continue reading Union County jury convicts Sioux City man of sexual abuse of minor

‘This is scandalous:’ Auditor asked to examine $10.7 million owed to taxpayers

Iowa nursing home companies owe over $10.7 million in unpaid fees, with one company’s executives making significant political donations. The state lacks enforcement authority to collect these fees, leading to concerns about misuse of Medicaid reimbursement funds. Advocates are calling for an investigation to ensure proper use of additional revenue and to address the industry’s lack of compliance. Continue reading ‘This is scandalous:’ Auditor asked to examine $10.7 million owed to taxpayers

State lifts prescription requirement for wheelchair repair through Medicaid

Iowans using wheelchairs through the state Medicaid program will no longer need a prescription and in-person doctor visit for repairs, after advocacy by State Rep. Josh Turek prompted a policy change. These delays caused by the prescription requirement kept some Iowans with disabilities homebound for significant periods. Turek also plans to advocate for faster repair authorization processes in the future. Continue reading State lifts prescription requirement for wheelchair repair through Medicaid

Neighbors and city policymakers cry fowl about backyard chickens

Cheryl Tevis discusses the resurgence of backyard chicken raising amid recent food supply chain disruptions and inflation. She shares personal anecdotes and observations about the trend, highlighting the economic benefits and implications on industrial egg production. The piece also addresses regulatory challenges and public health considerations, while emphasizing the enduring appeal of raising chickens for many Americans. Continue reading Neighbors and city policymakers cry fowl about backyard chickens

Iowa man alleges confused deputies mistakenly searched his home

Dustin Konrady, a resident of Cherokee, Iowa, is suing two deputies for mistakenly entering and searching his home while attempting to search a neighbor’s house. The deputies are being sued for trespassing, assault, and conducting a warrantless search. The lawsuit alleges that the deputies unlawfully entered the houses and covered their body cameras and microphones during the search. Continue reading Iowa man alleges confused deputies mistakenly searched his home

Puppy mill update: Five Iowa breeders cited for violations

The Bailing Out Benji organization reported Federal inspectors citing several Iowa breeders for regulatory violations, including inadequate veterinary care and sanitation issues. Violations were also found in 16 other states. Iowa-based breeders were among those cited, with five cited in the second quarter of 2024. Violators include Dunroven Farms, Century Farm Puppies, Coldwater Kennel, New Designs Kennel, and Riverside Kennels. Continue reading Puppy mill update: Five Iowa breeders cited for violations

Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition

A three-vehicle accident involving an SUV, a pickup, and a semi-truck occurred in Woodbury County. The SUV failed to yield at a stop sign, resulting in a collision. The SUV driver and passenger sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital, while no other injuries were reported. Emergency personnel responded to the scene. Continue reading Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition