Alligator Shows Up At Micro Man's Home

An alligator, nicknamed Oswald, was captured at a home in Micro Thursday night. Johnston County Animal Service officers will keep Oswald until NC Wildlife officials pick him up next week and relocate him to a more natural habitat along the coast, according to Animal Services Director Ernie Wilkinson.

A Micro homeowner got the surprise of his life Thursday night after an alligator wondered up to his home. For the past year, animal control officers had received reports of a gator in ponds and streams off Old Beulah Road . Thursday night, Animal Control Officer Tracy Langdon, who is the department’s reptile expert, was on call when the gator report came in. Ernie Wilkinson, Johnston County Animal Services Director, said the gator, nicknamed Oswald by his captors, is 5 feet long and weighs 50 pounds. A biologist with NC Wildlife is expected to pick up the alligator next week and release him in a more natural habitat along with southeastern North Carolina coast. Until then, Oswald will spend Easter weekend at the Johnston County Animal Shelter in his very own cage.

FOP Members Deliver Easter Baskets To Needy Residents

On Friday, members of the Johnston County Fraternal Order of Police brought smiles to the faces of a number of Johnston County residents by delivering Easter food baskets for those in need. Pictured are Lodge President Jason Hutchins and 2nd Vice President Jason Barnes with Elsie Sellers of Clayton. The Fraternal Order of Police is the world's largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers, with more than 324,000 members in more than 2,100 lodges. They are the voice of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities.

Town Amends Zoning Regulations

Paul Worley was reappointed this week to his second term on the Smithfield Board of Adjustments. To make sure the Board of Adjustments has a quorum at future meetings, the Smithfield Town Council amended a zoning regulation to allow four planning board members to serve as alternates on the Board of Adjustments, when primary members can not attend.

This week, the Smithfield Town Council agreed to amend zoning regulations to allow four members of the town’s planning board to serve as alternates on the Board of Adjustments. The planning board petitioned the council to make the change due to difficulty in recruiting qualified members to serve on the board of adjustment. Alternate members from the planning board will have voting privileges when primary members are unable to attend. Mayor Norman Johnson called the amending a “move in the right direction.” Councilman Andy Moore agreed, saying with the growth Smithfield is seeing, and with many developers coming from out of state to appear before the adjustment board, it was inconvenient when they arrived and the meeting couldn’t be held because of a lack of a quorum. “We certainly need this,” Moore added. The motion passed unanimously. In a related story, Paul Worley was reappointed to his second term on the Smithfield Board of Adjustments. Even with his reappointment, the adjustment board still has two vacancies. The planning board currently has three vacant spots, while the parks and recreation commission has 7 vacancies.

Driver Ejected After Truck Overturns

Clayton firefighters Travis Price and Bennie Cherry examine a truck that overturned on Old Garner Road near the entrance to Clemmons State Park. The driver was ejected in the single vehicle accident. His name or condition has not been released.

The Highway Patrol has not released the name of a man hurt after being ejected from his pickup truck in a serious single vehicle rollover accident Thursday night near Clayton. A Chevy truck ran off Old Garner Road near the Johnston-Wake County line around 7:20pm. The driver was ejected as the truck overturned several times. The driver was rushed to WakeMed by EMS crews. Firefighters said the accident was so violent it knocked bark off a tree, eight feet in the air, as the truck tumbled past. Troopers are still investigating.

Ambulance Company To Build New Facility On US70 West

Johnston Ambulance Service will be building a new facility on Highway 70 West in Smithfield . The town council approved the construction of a 6,000 square foot building at the corner of US70 and Strickland Drive . The Smithfield Planning Board recommended, at its March 1 meeting, to approve a special use permit for the facility. Johnston Ambulance plans to use the building to accommodate a fleet of ambulances and provide parking for employees. Eighteen parking spaces are included in the site plan, including landscaping, and two driveways on Strickland Drive .

This lot, at the intersection of West Market Street (US70) and Strickland Drive, will be the future home to a 6,000 square foot Johnston Ambulance Service building.

DOT To Suspend Most Road Construction Activities For Easter Holiday Weekend

The Department of Transportation will suspend most road construction activities that could affect travel over the Easter holiday to help ease traffic delays and improve driving conditions. Major construction projects along interstate and U.S. routes across the state will be suspended through Monday. A notable exception is a lane closure planned on US 421 in Pender County. Also, the outside lane on I-40/I-85 North in Alamance County under the bridge at Exit 140 will be closed during the holiday. The DOT reminds motorists that even though workers may not be present in the majority of work zones, they may still encounter narrowed lanes and traffic shifts. The penalty for speeding through a marked work zone is $250. Motorists are encouraged to stay alert, be patient, obey the posted speed limit, leave early to get a head start, and travel at non-peak times if possible.

Eastbound I-40 Lane Closures Planned Next Week

The Department of Transportation will temporarily close the outside lane on I-40 East between Exit 306 (US 70) and Exit 312 (NC 42) in Johnston and Wake counties next week. The lane will be closed from 7 o’clock Monday night until 3pm Wednesday afternoon. All lanes will be open each day from 3 until 7 o’clock each afternoon to help with rush hour traffic. Drivers on I-40 will experience heavy delays during the lane closures and should use an alternate route if possible. The posted speed limit for this work zone is 60 mph and will be reduced to 55 mph during lane closures. The closures are necessary to perform paving operations as part of the U.S. 70 Clayton Bypass, currently under construction. The $123 million project was awarded to S.T. Wooten Corp. and is expected to be complete in June 2009.

Convicted Murderers Stepfather Arrested On Drug And Weapons Charges

Just days after seeing his stepson sentenced to life in prison in Sampson County Superior Court for murdering three people, Robert Faison is now in trouble with the law. The 51-year-old man faces drug and weapons charges. Sampson County deputies stopped Faison's Ford Explorer for a routine traffic violation. After detecting an odor of marijuana, officers asked to search the vehicle, and reportedly found over an ounce of marijuana and a .25 caliber handgun. Two weeks ago, Faison was in court when his son, Antonio "Bernie" Bell was sentenced to three consecutive life sentences for his role in the kidnapping and beating deaths of Jimmy Ray Turner, Randolph Carr and Carrie Faith Jones in November 2003. The victims' bodies were burned in a field in an attempt to cover up the crime.

Daycare Worker Facing Identity Theft Charges

A daycare worker is facing identity theft charges. Lashawn Marie Montgomery, 36, of Clayton is accused of stealing the identity of Preston Moody of Smithfield back in January. Montgomery allegedly used Moody’s personal information to make at least a dozen purchases. She is charged with felony identity theft and 12 counts of obtaining property by false pretenses.

Clayton Main Street Vision Forum Set For April 24

NC Main Street Director Rodney Swink and Clayton Downtown Development Association Chair Joyce Blackley.

Clayton residents are invited to participate in the “ M ain Street Vision Forum” on Tuesday, April 24 from 7pm to 9pm at The Clayton Center. The public is invited but everyone needs to register ahead of time so there are adequate materials and nametags. The forum-workshop will be facilitated by NC M ain Street Director, Rodney Swink and Assistant Director, M eg Dees . During the forum, participants will be divided into groups and develop lists of downtown Clayton’s strengths and weaknesses. From those lists, the participants will develop individual and group vision statements which will be shared at the end of the workshop. From that, the Downtown Development Association (DDA) will synthesize the best themes and ideas to forge a single vision statement for downtown Clayton. The DDA is hoping between 75 to 100 people will participate in the Vision Forum. DDA Chair Joyce Blackley said this is a very important event in that DDA’s future plans of work and NC M ain Street ’s future assistance will be based on the visioning that takes place at this event. “Downtown Clayton is the social and cultural center of the whole town and belongs to everyone in town, so we really need participation from residents and property owners from throughout Clayton,” Blackley said. If you would like to participate in the M ain Street Vision Forum, contact Joyce Blackley at 919-553-6813 or Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen , at 919-553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Accused Vending Machine Thief Arrested Following Foot Chase

Smithfield Police hope a recent rash of vending machine break-ins will drop following an arrest. An officer arrested 21-year-old Christopher Michael Mattero of Selma following a brief foot chase just before midnight Wednesday at Carolina Premium Outlets. Mattero was reportedly caught with a pry bar and 82 one dollar bills reportedly taken moments earlier from a vending machine at the outlet center. Several businesses have reported coin operating vending machine break-ins recently in Selma and Smithfield .

Suspect Charged With Forging Prescriptions

A Four Oaks man is charged with passing forged prescriptions to obtain narcotic painkillers. Gary Lee Raynor, 46, of 7740 US301, is accused of passing a forged prescription for Percocet on March 19 at Carroll Pharmacy in Smithfield . That same day, Raynor allegedly was unsuccessful at passing another forged prescription at Warren Drug Company in Benson. Raynor is facing felony charges from Benson and Smithfield Police.

Princeton School Principal.Cynthia Peedin Named Princeton High Student Of The Month

Left to right: Phillip Smith, Market Street Advisors; Cynthia Peedin, Student of the Month; Kirk Denning, Cynthia Peedin has been named Student of the Month at Princeton High School .

Peedin will receive a $50 savings bond and trophy. Market Street Advisors presents the monthly award to a student who goes above and beyond what is expected, readily volunteers, is cooperative and respectful, enthusiastic, and reliable.

Teen Charged With Growing Illegal Mushrooms

A teenager is facing felony narcotics charges after reportedly being caught with illegal mushrooms. Johnston County deputies reportedly found 8 glass jars containing mushrooms at the home of Timothy Allen Boarman, 18, on Acadia Court . Officers were called to the home for a disturbance between Boarman and his mother, according to Detective Lt. Chris Strickland. When they arrived, deputies said they smelled a marijuana odor, and found the mushrooms, along with drug paraphernalia. Boarman was charged with the felonious manufacturing of narcotics. Bail was set at $26,000.

Traffic Stops Lead To Cocaine Arrests

Two Selma men were arrested on cocaine charges following unrelated traffic stops this week. Frederick Demetrice McLean, 32, (left) was arrested on College Road in Smithfield , by agents with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office. McLean was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, driving on a revoked license, failing to wear a seat belt, and displaying fictitious registration. Zachary George McNeill, 24, (right) was arrested during a traffic stop on Ricks Road in Selma . Agents said they found a small amount on the drivers seat.

Student Killed While Running Errand For Prom

Princeton High senior James Stuart Cook (below) was killed in a traffic accident Wednesday. Another student, Jeremy Pennell, was seriously injured. Photo by Carter Rabil Princeton

A Princeton High senior was killed, and another seriously injured, Wednesday afternoon, after being involved in a traffic accident while on their way to pick up their tuxedos for their prom. The fatal mishap occurred on US70 at Cornwallis Road in Princeton .

James Stuart Cook, 20, of Kenly (pictured left) died at Pitt Memorial in Greenville . Jeremy Lynn Pennell, 17, of Smithfield was airlifted to Duke Medical Center with serious injuries. Cook and Pennell were traveling in a Jeep Cherokee shortly after 4pm Wednesday. They apparently ran a stop sign at the intersection of Cornwallis Road and were broadsided by a pickup traveling on US70. Pennell was ejected as the SUV overturned. Neither of the teens was wearing a seat belt. Troopers are still investigating which student was behind the wheel. The driver of the pickup, Patrick Rawls of Clayton, was treated and released at Johnston Memorial Hospital . Grief counselors were on hand at Princeton High on Thursday to talk with students about the tragedy.

Rescue Worker Injured In Collision With Tractor Trailer

A rescue worker was seriously injured after her van collided with a tractor trailer Thursday morning on Highway 210 in western Johnston County . The Highway Patrol said a minivan pulled into the path of a semi at the intersection of NC210 and Old Fairgrounds Road around 7am. 50-210 Firemen had to cut the doors off the van to remove the 25-year-old woman, who was trapped inside for about 15 minutes. The victim, who works as an EMT with the 50-210 Fire Department, was airlifted from the scene. Her name was not immediately released.
The driver of the semi, Barry Ellis of Raleigh , was not injured. Photo courtesy The Daily Record

Freezing Warning In Effect From Midnight

9AM Friday - A Freeze Warning is in effect from midnight tonight to 9am Friday morning. A cold, dry air mass will continue to filter into the area tonight through early Friday morning. Low temperatures early Friday morning are expected to drop to near the freezing mark. Freeze watches and or warnings are expected for Saturday and Sunday mornings as below normal temperatures continue through the weekend. Low temperatures both mornings will be in the mid- and upper-20’s. A freeze warning means sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely. These conditions will kill crops and other sensitive vegetation.

Fire Causes Minimal Damage To Home

Smithfield Fire Chief Patrick Harris (white shirt) walks out of a home at 112 Heritage Street as firefighters set up a ventilation exhaust fan at the front door. A stove fire caused about $1,000 in damage to the home of Anthony and Rebecca McKinney on Thursday. No injuries were reported.


A Smithfield home received minor damage Thursday after an unattended pan on a stove caught fire. Smithfield firemen were called to the home of Anthony and Rebecca McKinney at 112 Heritage Street , off Booker Dairy Road , just after 11am. Smithfield Fire Marshal Paul Whitehurst said Mrs. McKinney was cooking on the stove and had walked away. She was alerted to the fire by the sounds of a smoke detector. Firemen used an exhaust fan to remove smoke from the home. Damage from the fire was placed at $1,000. No injuries were reported.

Smithfield Extends Moratorium 120 Days On Billboards

The Smithfield Town Council has extended a moratorium on new billboards for 120 days. The council is looking to update their billboard ordinances. Pictured is a billboard on US70 West at Wilson's Mills Road. Existing billboards are expected to be "grand fathered" if they meet current guidelines.

The Smithfield Town Council has extended a moratorium on off-site advertising signs and billboards for an additional 120 days. The purpose of the moratorium is to give the town council additional time to look at amending the existing billboard ordinance, which hasn’t been updated in years. Currently, special use permits can be obtained for billboards, but the proposed ordinance could do away with permits, thus no longer permitting billboards in some areas of town. Officials are looking to control billboards on US301 and US70, the two main entrances to Smithfield , along with signs along I-95. Councilman Vic Ogburn has recommended existing billboards be grand fathered if they are not currently in violation of any codes.

Town Rejects $5 Vehicle Tax

Smithfield Town Councilman Sidney Broadwell was instrumental in rejecting a vehicle tax of up to $5 for every car and truck in the city limits. Broadwell said residents already pay enough taxes on their vehicles.

With rising gasoline prices, Town Councilman Sidney Broadwell thought a proposal to levy a vehicle tax of up to $5 a year for every car in Smithfield was just too much. Residents already pay property tax on their cars and trucks. Calling the proposed $5 fee a “tax on top of a tax” Broadwell said the town had survived without the fee this long and felt the collections with the current motor vehicle tax was adequate. Councilman Charles Williams seconded Broadwell’s motion to reject a proposed $5 vehicle tax and the council voted unanimously not to implement the additional tax. About 9,400 vehicles are currently registered within the town limits and the tax would have generated about $47,000 per year, starting July 1. Currently, Benson levies a $3 vehicle tax. Clayton and Pine Level each levy a $5 vehicle tax. Funds generated by the tax in Smithfield would have been directed towards accelerating street resurfacing and sidewalks.

Selma Police Make Drug Arrest

A local postal worker has been arrested on felony drug charges. Selma Police arrested 36-year-old Tammy Bryant Pilkington following a traffic stop by Officer A.G. McLamb early Tuesday on West Anderson Street . Pilkington allegedly had a small amount of cocaine in her vehicle, along with drug paraphernalia. Pilkington told police she worked at the Pine Level Post Office. Calls to the Pine Level Post Office went unanswered on Thursday. Pilkington was released from jail after posting a $5,500 bond.

Student Charged With Assaulting Teacher

A student at Smithfield Selma High School has been charged with assaulting a teacher. Jessica Edmundson, 16, of Wendell, is accused of striking and scratching teacher Randy Hamilton as he tried to break up an affray on the school campus Tuesday. Edmundson was allegedly assaulting another student when the teacher intervened. Edmundson is charged with assault on a school employee, simple affray, and disorderly conduct. She was released on $3,000 bail.

Newton Grove Resident Claims Second $100,00 Lottery Prize

For the second time in less than a month a Newton Grove resident has claimed a $100,000 lottery prize. Accompanied by her family, Linda Oates claimed her prize Monday in Raleigh . Oats won $100,000 with an instant scratch-off ticket "Carolina Hurricanes." Oates purchased her ticket at A-B Circle Mart on Clinton Street in Newton Grove on Saturday. She plans to use the money to pay bills and help her daughter with college expenses. Two weeks ago, Barbara Bowden bought a $100,000 scratch-off ticket from the Food Lion in Newton Grove. Also, someone purchased a $10,000 Powerball ticket from the Carlie C's IGA in Lillington, but as of Monday, had not claimed the prize.

Federal Lawsuit Filed In Alleged Johnston County Mortgage Fraud Scam

(Right) Attorney Robert A. Spence Jr., and his law firm Spence & Spence, are among those named in a federal lawsuit alleging they conspired to commit a mortgage fraud scam against a Virginia woman starting in 2003. (Below) A home off Campground Road in Selma is one of 10 homes in Johnston County allegedly involved. The house, purchased by Dawn Higgins, ended up in foreclosure and now has new owners.

A federal lawsuit has been filed against a number of business owners and individuals in an alleged Johnston County mortgage fraud scam, and WMPM News has confirmed the SBI is now conducting their own separate investigation. The scam allegedly uses inflated appraisals and forged mortgage documents to obtain loans for more than what homes are actually worth. Named in the lawsuit include the Spence & Spence law firm, attorney Robert A. Spence Jr., Spencer Jenkins and Mark Lowery with JP Services, Greg and Elizabeth Johnson with Homes by Greg Johnson, Inc., paralegal Patsy Narron, Eldon and Elizabeth Standridge, loan officer Annetha Dunn, Sybil Pickard, Carol Grice Daniels, appraiser Rodney Taylor, and Fremont Investments & Loan Inc. of Florida.

The federal complaint was filed by attorney Belinda Sukeena on behalf of Dawn Higgins of Virginia . In 2003, Higgins was allegedly solicited by JP Services to invest in real estate in Johnston County . Higgins, an “unsophisticated investor”, had previously only purchased a home for personal use, and was apparently targeted because of her good credit, according to court documents filed by attorney Belinda Sukeena. Higgins traveled to Johnston County and looked at several homes which she was told she could buy at below market prices, which would have immediate and substantial equity, and was allegedly told she would not have to pay any money at closing. The “solicitors” claimed they had tenants to lease the property, covering the expenses until the homes could be sold in the future at a profit. Armed with Higgins’ personal information and a power of attorney, 10 homes were purchased in her name although she allegedly was only told about five of the transactions. In the end, mortgage lenders foreclosed on the properties, renters were evicted, and Higgins’ credit was ruined.

Spence and Spence reportedly employed the attorneys and staff who represented Higgins at all ten closings, the lawsuit contends. Loan officer Annetha Dunn is accused of processing mortgages for all 10 properties. The complaint alleges Patsy Narron was a “key co-conspirator working closely with the (defendants) and loan officer.” Rodney Taylor provided the appraisals for 9 of the 10 properties, and 6 of the 10 were sold by the Johnson’s and Homes by Greg Johnson, the 37-page complaint alleges. The Standridges allegedly sold three properties. Carol Daniels sold the remaining property to Higgins, the federal lawsuit contends. The complaint alleges many of those involved knew or should have known, but failed to disclose to the buyer, the properties were worth less than the sales price. Higgins was reportedly never notified JP Services was allegedly paid a kick-back of 10 to 20 percent commission, or that the lender was under the belief Higgins was making a down payment on the homes. Patsy Narron allegedly produced two settlement statements for each closing, one that showed JP Services assignment fee and another that did not. After closing on the property, the “solicitors” in the case failed to pay the mortgages on the property, even for properties they were receiving rents, thus ruining Higgins credit, according to Sukeena. Higgins attorney said the scam cost her client tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, in addition to destroying her credit worthiness. The lawsuit was filed in US District Court. According to the FBI, mortgage fraud is the fastest growing white-collar crime in the United States .

Children Accused Of Setting Fire To Mobile Home

Two children, ages 5 and 7, are accused of setting fire to an unoccupied mobile home, Tuesday afternoon, on Country Lane outside of Clayton. No charges are expected to be filed against the youths. Firefighters found a singlewide mobile home, owned by Emory Howard, fully engulfed in flames when they arrived. Detective Lt. Chris Strickland with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office said the children were playing with a lighter when the fire started. An adjacent mobile home was damaged by the intense heat. Clayton and Cleveland firefighters responded to the blaze, which still remains under investigation by Clayton Fire Marshal Tony Atkinson and sheriff’s detectives.

Bill Phillips Appointed To Vacant Seat On Smithfield Town Council

W.O. "Bill" Phillips thanks members of the Smithfield Town Council following his appointment Tuesday night to fill out the unexpired term of Tom Bell in District 4.

The term will expire in 2009.W.O. “Bill” Phillips has been appointed to fill out the unexpired term of Tom Bell on the Smithfield Town Council. Phillips, 78, lives on Castle Circle and has been a business owner in Smithfield for the past 47 years. Phillips served two terms on the West Smithfield Sanitary District, and served several years on the Smithfield planning and zoning board. In 1998, Phillips also served on the Mayor’s Advisory Board. “I have knowledge of Smithfield ’s past, and a concern for Smithfield ’s future,” Phillips told the town council. Phillips will fill out Bell ’s term in District 4, which covers West Smithfield , and expires in 2009. Bell announced his resignation in March saying his work and travel schedule prevented him from devoting the time and attention he felt was necessary to serve the citizens.

Senior Project For SJHS Student Highlights Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

Juniors and seniors at South Johnston High watch, Wednesday morning, as Benson firemen and EMS workers cut three "victims" from a mock accident scene. The grim reaper, dressed in black looks on. Obituaries for 5 students were read during the event, held to show teens the importance of not drinking and driving.

Dana Daniels hopes her senior project presented to juniors and seniors at South Johnston High School on Wednesday gets their attention. Daniels project, “Make Memories, Not Memorials”, was designed to draw attention to the dangers of teens drinking and driving. Students learned they were not invincible. Through a slide show, mock crash reenactment, and a speech from State Trooper J.M. Dorsey, students learned the dangers of drinking and driving. The event was held prior to the school’s Senior Prom on Thursday night. District Attorney Susan Doyle, Assistant DA Cindy Yeager, law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies were in attendance. So far this year, four teens have been killed in car crashes in Johnston County alone. Since 2004, 455 teenagers have died on North Carolina roadways, including 25 in Johnston County . Students also learned the dangers of speeding. Officials reminded the teens about the importance of wearing seat belts, limiting the number of passengers in their cars, not tailgating, and obeying a new law where teens under 18 can’t talk on a cell phone while driving.

Jamie Kistler Named SSS High Student Of The Month

Jamie Kistler has been named Student of the Month at Smithfield-Selma High School . Kistler will receive a $50 savings bond and a trophy. Market Street Advisors presents the award each month to a student who demonstrates a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and who is enthusiastic and reliable.

Left to Right: Phil Smith, Market Street Advisors; Kelly Hardin, Nominator; Jamie Kistler Jake Jacobs, Principal.

Deputy Crashes Pursuing Suspect

A Sampson County Sheriff's deputy suffered only minor injuries when he wrecked his patrol car while chasing a suspect wanted for parole violation. Sheriff Jimmy Thornton said Deputy Charles Bradshaw was pursuing Joshua Clark of Roseboro, who was wanted in connected with a stolen 2006 GMC truck, when the wreck happened. Trooper Michael McLamb of the Highway Patrol said Bradshaw's vehicle ran off the road struck a tree and came to rest in a driveway. Bradshaw escaped and is still wanted.

Murder Convict Released In Johnston County

A man who served 20 years in prison for murder has been released to Johnston County . The Department of Corrections website shows 43-year-old Ronald C. Hyatt was paroled last Wednesday. Hyatt was convicted of first-degree murder in New Hanover County in June 1987 and sentenced to life in prison. However, Hyatt was still eligible for parole because his trial and sentencing occurred before the Structured Sentencing Act of 1994, which eliminated parole.

A Look Back

It's 1952 and Dragnet and The Today Show premiere on NBC, boxer Rocky Marciano KO's Jersey Joe Walcott to capture the heavyweight title, actor Ronald Reagan marries Nancy Davis, legendary Sun Records of Memphis releases the first of many classics, 25,000 fans pack the Cleveland Arena for the Moondog Coronation Ball, the first rock & roll concert, Mr. Potato Head is the first toy advertised on TV, Mad Magazine debuts, the first fake fingernails are sold, Satchel Paige becomes oldest hurler to sling a shut-out at 47, the New York Yankees tie their World Series consecutive win record with number 4 and this is a postcard of Nelson's Good Food Restaurant along US 301. Contributed by Carter Rabil.

77-Year-Old Pond Owner Charged With Shooting 81-Year-Old Fisherman

An 81-year-old fishing in a Harnett County pond suffered minor wounds when he was hit by pellets fired from the shotgun of the pond's irate owner. The Harnett County Sheriff's Office said Silas Junior McKoy was hit by a blast from the shotgun when he refused to leave a pond he was fishing. The gunman, 77-year-old William Watson Maddox, allegedly told McKoy to leave the pond. When McKoy refused, Maddox allegedly fired the shotgun in McKoy's direction. Maddox was charged with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. He was released on a $10,000 unsecured bond.

House Approves Bill Increasing School Bus Security

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved legislation containing a provision by U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) to improve school bus security. At the request of Etheridge, the bill includes a provision to require that the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) perform a comprehensive threat assessment for school transportation and make recommendations to DHS and Congress on how to respond to those threats. The Etheridge provision complements the rest of the bill, which closes security gaps in rail and mass transit safety efforts. The legislation provides support and guidance for training, grants security planning, research and development and securing hazardous materials. The Etheridge school bus provision was originally suggested by Derek Graham of the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. Graham is also the President of the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services. School buses have been targets of terrorists not only in countries such as Israel , Thailand , Yemen , and African countries, but also in Canada and the United States . The legislation must next be approved by the Senate.

Operation Slow Down Targeting Aggressive Drivers

State Trooper D.J. Hare walks back to his patrol car after stopping a car for a traffic violation on I-95 near Smithfield Monday afternoon. The Highway Patrol is conducting Operation Slow Down during the Easter holiday week. Troopers in Johnston County hit the roads in full force on Monday looking for speeders and aggressive drivers. Patrols have been increased on I-40, I-95, US70, and other major routes in Johnston County . Troopers are looking for motorists who flagrantly violate motor vehicle laws, including excessive speeding, following too closely, erratic lane changes, safe movement violations, and other forms of reckless endangerment. “Whether you’re headed to the beach, visiting friends, or going to church, please drive with care,” said Colonel W. Fletcher Clay, Highway Patrol Commander. “Our Troopers will be looking for aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, drivers not wearing their seatbelts, and other violators throughout the state while patrolling this Easter holiday week.” Last year in North Carolina , 13 people died and 653 were injured in 1,000 collisions during the Easter holiday period. The 2007 Easter weekend begins at 6pm Thursday and ends at midnight Sunday.

Police Seize 87 Grams Marijuana, Loaded Handgun During Traffic Stop

Officer S. Gibbs and Lt. R. Sheppard talk with Samuel Wayne Hill following his arrest on drug and weapons charges on Monday. Smithfield Police seized a quantity of marijuana, a loaded handgun, and drug paraphernalia Monday. Officers responded to a disturbance call in the parking lot of the Sunoco on East Market Street around 6:00pm. A truck fled from the convenience store before police arrived but was spotted outside Howard Johnson’s on Mallard Road . Samuel Wayne Hill, 17, of Braswell Road , Smithfield was arrested on several charges including maintaining a vehicle to keep a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, possession of a handgun by a minor, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail for Hill was set at $35,000.

Henry Willis Appointed As Replacement For Former Judge James Ethridge

Governor Mike Easley has appointed attorney Henry Willis to fill out the term of former Judge James Ethridge who was disbarred and recently resigned. Willis lost in the 2004 elections to Ethridge, but was the top vote getter when the 11th District Bar Association nominated a replacement for Ethridge on the bench earlier this year. In a press release, Gov. Easley said Willis’ experience, legal knowledge and training earned him the seat. Willis has over 27 years experience as a trial lawyer. Willis said he plans to do the best job he can. Wilis will meet with Chief District Court Judge Andy Corbett to determine when he will begin work on the bench. Former Judge James Ethridge was disbarred last fall by the NC State Bar for his handling of an elderly client’s money when he was an attorney. Ethridge continued to draw his salary until he was pressured to resign earlier this year. Photo by The Daily Record

Fremont Police Make Arrest In Murder

Crime Scene Investigators with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office process a murder scene on Goldsboro Street in Fremont Saturday night after 28-year-old Shana Hutchins was allegedly killed by her boyfriend. Photo by Carter Rabil

Fremont Police have made an arrest in the violent death of a 28-year-old woman. Shana Hutchins was found in her home on Goldsboro Street around 6:30pm Saturday. Police Chief R.K. Rawlings would not say how Hutchins died nor release the motive. On Monday, Hutchins boyfriend, 35-year-old Antonia Artis of Wilson, was charged with murder. Rawlings said additional interviews are still being conducted and would not rule out the possibility of additional charges. The SBI and Wayne County Sheriff’s Office are assisting in the investigation.

Goldsboro Man Convicted Following Shooting Of Police Officer

Goldsboro Police and the SBI process a crime scene on Elm Street last year where a police officer was shot while trying to execute a search warrant. Bobby Rawlings was convicted by a federal jury in Elizabeth City on Monday on multiple charges stemming from the incident. Photo by Carter Rabil

A federal jury has convicted a Wayne County man on multiple charges stemming from the shooting of a Goldsboro police officer. Bobby Rawlings, 59, was convicted Monday for possession of a firearm by a felon, two counts of possession of cocaine, and two counts of carrying a firearm in a drug trafficking crime. Rawlings, a multiple convicted felon, shot a police officer in the chest last year during the execution of a search warrant at his residence. Rawlings only stopped firing at the officer when his weapon jammed. Three months before, Rawlings was stopped by the Highway Patrol and caught with cocaine and a loaded handgun. Rawlings is still awaiting sentencing.

Security Guard With Top Secret Clearance Among 4 People Convicted On Identity Theft Charges

A former security officer for a US government contractor was among four people sentenced in federal court in Raleigh on Monday on identity theft charges. US Attorney George Holding announced Xavier Vidal Jennette, 33, of Washington , D.C. was sentenced to 10 years and 1 month in prison. Last fall, Jennette was convicted on conspiracy, fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Jennette reportedly stole personal identification information from over 120 employees of contractors who provided software services to various military and government agencies of the US Government. Jennette used his “top secret” security clearance to obtain the information when he left his employment with the contractor in 2004. Jennette, along with three others, Anthony Wallace of Raleigh, Aiseha Horton of Raleigh, and Lenette Salder, of Washington, NC, impersonated Jennette’s former colleagues, obtained cell phones, TV’s, videogame systems, iPod music players, chainsaws, and other merchandise, then sold them items. Many of the products were bought using “instant credit” accounts with the stolen ID’s. Wallace was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison, Horton to 17 months, and Sadler to 7 months. The US Secret Service was the lead investigator in the case.

Man, Woman Arrested On Numerous Charges

A couple was jailed following an incident at the Dunn Wal-Mart in which a store employee was assaulted and two children were found in the car along with 153 rounds of ammunition. Police say Nicky Lee Dexter, 21, of Dudley and James Michael Strickland, 42, of Pikeville, were caught by a store employee trying to steal 20 DVD movies from Wal-Mart. After being confronted, Strickland allegedly assaulted the employee. When police arrived and arrested the pair, they allegedly found them in possession of three syringes, a spoon and a case of razors. Strickland also allegedly had a .22 caliber handgun on his person. When police went to the couple's car outside, they found two children along with 153 rounds of ammunition. The children were taken into protective custody by the Department of Social Services. Dexter was charged with larceny and possession of drug paraphernalia while Strickland was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, assault on a female, drug possession and carrying a concealed handgun.

Couple Accused Of Shoplifting Children's Clothes

A Roseboro couple is accused of shoplifting merchandise from three businesses in Smithfield and another in Sampson County . Sharon Cooper Hall, 48, and Harold Scott Cameron, 46, were arrested by Smithfield Police on Monday. Detectives said Hall and Cameron took $980 in merchandise from Skechers USA , Children’s Boutique, and Hartstrings, on Industrial Park Drive . Officers also recovered property taken from a Sampson County business. Both suspects were jailed under a $4,000 bond each.

DOT Preparing For Spring Litter Sweep

The NC Department of Transportation is preparing for its 2007 Spring Litter Sweep, which will be held April 14 through April 28. During the statewide litter sweep, DOT maintenance crews, Adopt-A-Highway groups, Department of Correction inmate crews, community service workers and other volunteers will take to the highways to remove roadside litter. “Roadside litter is an ongoing problem throughout North Carolina , and litter sweeps play an important role in our efforts to maintain the condition of our highways,” said Transportation Secretary Lyndo Tippett. “The efforts of all our crews and volunteers to make North Carolina a cleaner and safer place to live are greatly appreciated.” NCDOT’s Office of Beautification Programs will coordinate the work of volunteers from Adopt-A-Highway groups, garden clubs, civic groups and other community organizations during the two-week cleanup. Anyone who wants to participate is asked to contact their local NCDOT county maintenance office in advance for supplies such as safety vests, gloves and orange trash bags. The Highway Patrol will also be on alert and policing the roadways for those who litter during the sweep. Littering is an illegal, fineable offense that can entail community service work and a point on the offender’s driver license upon conviction. Fines can cost up to $2,000 and may double upon a second conviction. Participants are reminded to warm up by stretching before picking up litter and to drink plenty of water during the cleanup. A second litter sweep is also held in the fall of each year during the last two weeks of September.

A large piece of plastic was spotted alongside Industrial Park Drive in Smithfield last week. A Spring Litter Sweep will be held April 14-28.

Girlfriend Charged In Fatal Shooting

Harnett County authorities have still not determined a motive for a fatal weekend shooting. Billy Ray Williams was found shot to death at a home on McKoy Lane outside of Fuquay Varina. Mary Delois McKoy, 55, is charged with her boyfriend’s murder. She was also charged with possession of a firearm by a felon. Both the victim and suspect lived at the same address. McKoy is being held in the Harnett County Jail without bond. An autopsy is being performed on Williams by the NC Medical Examiners Office. Photo by Carter Rabil

Drugs Confiscated Following Chase

A man with an extensive drug background is facing multiple charges following a chase Friday afternoon. Wilson ’s Mills Police Chief Steve Little said he stopped 28-year-old Quentin Dion Howell of Selma for speeding. After approaching Howell’s car, Chief Little said he noticed marijuana in plain view. After running a check on Howell, Chief Little determined he was wanted for assaulting a police officer. When Chief Little tried to take Howell into custody, he sped away. Wilson’s Mills and Clayton Police, along with Johnston County sheriff’s deputies and the Highway Patrol, joined in the pursuit that finally ended in the parking lot of a convenience store on Highway 96 north of Selma . Chief Little said a large quantity of knives and razors were found inside the vehicle. Howell is facing multiple traffic and drug charges. Last June, Howell was arrested during a traffic stop on Highway 96 in which 200 grams of marijuana and two firearms were reportedly seized.

Driver Dies From Injuries Sustained In Accident

A Raleigh man badly hurt in a single car crash on Highway 42 West has died from his injuries. Christopher Glenn Rogers, 21, was apparently speeding when he lost control of his 1999 Chevy S-10 pickup, struck a ditch bank and overturned. Trooper P.K. Watkins estimated Rogers was traveling 65mph in a 45mph zone at the time of the 11:59pm accident Thursday.

Fire Damages Glen Laurel Home

The cause of a fire that heavily damaged a home in the Glen Laurel Subdivision in Clayton early Sunday morning remains under investigation. Flames damaged the home of Dave and Lori Troy at 141 Townsend Drive . The fire was reported just before 3am. Crews from Clayton, Wilson ’s Mills, Smithfield , and Cleveland responded to the blaze. Clayton Fire Marshal Tony Atkinson said the cause is still undetermined. The fire appears to have started outside the home then spread inside. Several neighbors came to the aid of the Troy family immediately after the fire, including a young girl who lived across the street, who brought firefighters bottled water.

Fire Burns 10 Acres

A grass and woods fire burned nearly 10 acres Saturday afternoon on Highway 70 East of Smithfield near Yelverton Grove Road . Smithfield and Pine Level fire crews were joined by the NC Forestry Service in working to contain the fire. Smithfield Fire Marshal Paul Whitehurst said an individual was burning leaves when high winds caused the fire to get out of hand. It took crews about two hours to fully contain the fire. Forestry officials brought in a plow to dig a line around the fire to prevent it from spreading.

Smithfield firemen Brett Renfrow and Chris Raynor (right) spray water to contain the perimeter of a 10 acre grass and woods fire on US70 East Saturday afternoon.

Fire Spreads To Abandoned Mobile Home

A grass fire destroyed a mobile home Saturday outside of Four Oaks. Strickland’s Crossroads and Four Oaks firemen worked to contain an acre fire that had spread to a vacant mobile home, on US701 South near Stewart Road . No injuries were reported.

Strickland's Crossroads and Four Oaks firemen work to contain a blaze Saturday afternoon on US701 South. A grass fire spread to this vacant mobile home, causing extensive damage.

SSS Girls Soccer Assist In The Brittany Scholarship Fundraiser

Erin Marett eyes ball at The Brittany, as sisters Meredith and Morgan Rabil look on. The Smithfield Selma High Spartans defeated Nash Central 8-0. SSS's Alison McMillan received the Sportsmanship Award. The Spartans are coached by Matthew Coates. Photo by Carter Rabil

Cleanup From Fuel Spill To Cost $10,000

Officials estimate it will cost about $10,000 to clean up a fuel spill in Selma . The spill was discovered in a ditch on Hare Street off Lizzie Street last weekend. The Town of Selma has contacted an environmental cleanup company to clean up the area. In the meanwhile, Selma Police are investigating who might have dumped the fuel, and whether it was accidental or intentional.

Rash Of Weekend Break-Ins Reported

Smithfield and Selma Police are investigating a number of weekend break-ins. In Selma , thieves broke into the Selma Baptist Church and Selma Used Cars just minutes apart. No items were taken but the intruders caused damaged by forcibly entering both locations. In Smithfield , break-ins were reported at Enterprise , Ultimate Tan, and the Smithfield Parks and Recreation Building . Police believe the Enterprise and Ultimate Tan burglaries are probably connected. The parks and recreation office was broken into three weeks ago, but an arrest was made in the first incident. No items were taken in the weekend break-in, although the thieves caused about $215 in damages.

Man Arrested For Second Time On Indecent Exposure Charges

A Dunn man is charged with exposing himself at his home three years after he was convicted of the same offense in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Harnett County authorities arrested Michael Lee Hudson, 32, on two counts of exposing himself. He was jailed under $5,000 bond. The arrest followed three years of complaints by neighbors that Hudson has exposed and touched himself in front of windows and open doors. Hudson was placed on probation for 15 months following a conviction for exposing himself at the Dunn Wal-Mart parkinglot in 2004.

Smithfield Couple Facing Drug Charges

Two Smithfield residents are facing felony drug charges. Police arrested Brandon Matthew Pilkington and Vicky Jeanine Farmer of Fourth Street after responding to a complaint about suspicious activity in a room at Howard Johnson’s Motel on Mallard Road Tuesday night. A small amount of cocaine and marijuana was seized, according to Smithfield Police Lt. Keith Powell. Both suspects were jailed under a $10,000 bond.

Motorcyclist Charged In October Pursuit

A man who allegedly outran Smithfield Police on a motorcycle during a brief chase last October has been arrested. Police tried to stop Chester Shane Hall, 29, on Wilson ’s Mills Road last year after clocking him running 90mph in a 45mph zone. Hall eluded arrest at the time but on Tuesday surrendered to police. Hall is charged with felony fleeing to elude arrest, speeding, reckless driving, and driving without a license. Bail was set at $17,000.