RALEIGH – The Highway Patrol continues to investigate a crash involving a state trooper who was hit by a vehicle on US 1 in Vance County. On Tuesday, October 22 at approximately 7:59 p.m., a 2012 Buick traveled off the roadway and struck the trooper from behind as he was conducting a traffic stop.
As a result of the crash, Trooper Craig I. Hundley, a 12-year veteran, assigned to Troop C, District 4 (Franklin County) was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.
“Once again, we are reminded of the dangers our brave men and women face each day while keeping our communities safe”, said Colonel Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. “While I am very thankful for the overwhelming amount of support already received, I encourage everyone to continually uplift Trooper Hundley and his family as he begins the recovery process.”
The driver of the Buick, Justin O’Brien Venable, 32, of Henderson, has been charged with felony hit-and-run, felony violation of the move over law, DWI, careless and reckless driving and possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage. Mr. Venable was transported to the Vance County Jail and placed under a $35,000 secured bond.
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https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/North-Carolina-Highway-Patrol.gif265504John C. Rosehttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngJohn C. Rose2019-10-23 16:54:102019-10-23 16:54:33SHP Identifies Trooper Struck In Vance County Crash
According to a press release from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and the NC Highway Patrol, on October 22, 2019 at approximately 7:59 p.m., a member of the State Highway Patrol was struck while conducting a traffic stop on US 1 in Vance County. The involved member was in the process of conducting a traffic stop on US 1 northbound near Sunrock Road when he was struck while outside of his patrol vehicle. A nearby trooper responded to the scene and immediately provided medical aid to the injured member. The injured member was flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital and is in serious condition. The driver that had struck the member has been taken into custody at this time. Further details will be provided in a forthcoming release.
In addition to the press release information, WIZS News has learned the name of the injured trooper and that he primarily works in the Franklin County area. Since the injured trooper’s name has not yet officially been released by the NCSHP, WIZS is waiting on releasing his name as well.
Also, charged in connection with this case is Justin O. Venable of the Thomas Road in the Williamsboro community, according to Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame. Brame said Venable was confined to the Vance County Jail under a $35,000 bond. Venable faces charges of felony failure to move over, hit and run, DWI and possession of an open container.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0089_NC-Dept-of-Public-Safety.png.png265504John C. Rosehttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngJohn C. Rose2019-10-23 08:51:102019-10-23 08:51:10Trooper Injured During Traffic Stop 10-22-19
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-Press Release, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit arrested Franklin County resident James Edward Bullock Jr. on October 18, 2019.
Mr. Bullock was arrested at his residence located at 783 Dead Road Bunn, NC. In addition to the arrest, a search warrant was executed at his residence. The search resulted in the seizure of Cocaine, Marijuana, one firearm, one vehicle and US Currency.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit arrested Franklin County resident James Edward Bullock Jr. on October 18, 2019. In addition to the arrest, a search warrant was executed at his residence. The search resulted in the seizure of Cocaine, Marijuana, one firearm, one vehicle and US Currency. (FCSO photo)
This investigation into illegal drug activity began as a result of citizen complaints alleging Mr. Bullock was involved in selling illegal narcotics throughout Franklin County. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit validated Mr. Bullocks’ illegal activities and began an investigation.
As a result of this investigation, Mr. Bullock was charged with five (5) counts of Possess with Intent to Sell/Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance, (Cocaine), five (5) counts of Selling Cocaine, five (5) counts of Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Selling Controlled Substances, one (1) count of Possession of a Firearm by Felon.
Also arrested during the search was Franklin County resident Dorothy Denise Foster. Ms. Foster was charged with one (1) count of Possess with Intent to Sell and Deliver Cocaine, one (1) count of Maintaining a Vehicle for selling Controlled Substances and Possession of Marijuana.
Sheriff Kent Winstead stated, “We continue to identify and pursue those dealers who distribute these illegal drugs in our communities. These arrests are the direct result of citizens who provided information on the illegal activities of these two individuals. We appreciate this type of information and the partnership we have with our citizens. Working together helps us fulfill our commitment to keep our communities safe.”
Also arrested during the search was Franklin County resident Dorothy Denise Foster. Foster was charged with one (1) count of Possess with Intent to Sell and Deliver Cocaine, one (1) count of Maintaining a Vehicle for selling Controlled Substances and Possession of Marijuana. (FCSO photo)
James Edward Bullock Jr. was placed under a $300,000 secured bond and is currently in the Franklin County Detention Center,
James Edward Bullock Jr., 51 years old, 783 Dead Road Bunn, NC 27508
Dorothy Denise Foster was placed under a $20,000 secured bond in the Franklin County Detention Center.
If you have information regarding this case or if you would like to report drug activity in your community, please contact Sgt. Ken Pike at (919) 496-2186.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Bullock_Foster-Mug-Shot.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-22 16:52:482019-10-22 16:52:48FCSO: Citizen Complaints Lead to Drug Arrest of Two Bunn Residents
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-Press Release, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit has concluded Phase II of “Operation Impact,” a six-month joint investigation with JC’s Recovery Baltimore involving illegal drug activity in Franklin County. This operation focused on illegal drug sales in and around the Louisburg area of Franklin County.
As a result of this investigation, 16 individuals have been arrested and charged with 88 felony drug-related charges. The individuals arrested during this phase of Operation Impact, are alleged to have been involved in selling illegal drugs in and around neighborhoods in the Louisburg area.
This investigation was part of a continued and on-going effort by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to identify and investigate illegal drug activity occurring in Franklin County. The individuals arrested during this operation were identified by citizen complaints, and other intelligence-driven information received by the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Kent Winstead stated, “Phase II of Operation Impact was conducted as part of our overall strategy to address illegal drug sales in every part of our county. Working with our law enforcement partners has proven to be a valuable resource in combating illegal drug activities within our communities.”
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisburg Police Department and the Alcohol Law Enforcement Division.
As a result of “Operation Impact,” 31 individuals have been arrested and charged with 174 felony drug-related charges. The investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected.
The following arrests/charges are the result of Operation Impact: Phase II –
EricLamont Joyner, 38 years old, 25 Eagle Nest Lane Kittrell, NC 27544 – Possess with Intent to Sell and Deliver Heroin (2 Counts), Sell Heroin (2 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling for Selling Controlled Substances.
Bond $25,000 secured
Ashley Suri, 24 years old, 40 Richards Way Zebulon, NC 27597 – Possess with Intent to Sell and Deliver a Controlled Substance (2 Counts), Sell and Deliver a Controlled Substance (2 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling for Selling Controlled Substances (2 Counts).
Bond $25,000 secured
Wilbert Stewart Jr., 52 years old, 286 Dupree Drive Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Cocaine (3 Counts), PWIMSD Schedule Il Controlled Substance (3 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substance (2 Counts).
Bond $50,000 secured
Dennis Earl Fennell Jr., 29 years old, 71 Dupree Drive Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Cocaine, PWIMSD Schedule Il Controlled Substance, Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substance, Manufacture/Sell/Deliver/Possess with Intent, Controlled Substance within 1000 ft of School.
Bond $100,000 secured
Joseph Albert Fowler Jr., 30 years old, 196 Dupree Drive Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWIMSD Cocaine, Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substance (4 Counts), Sell Cocaine (3 Counts), PWIMSD Sch II Controlled Substance (3 Counts), Manufacture/Sell/Deliver/Possess with Intent Controlled Substance within 1000 ft of School.
Bond $175,000 secured
Ricky Patrick Hill Jr., 23 years old, 265 Otis Burrows Road Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Marijuana (2 Counts), PWIMSD Marijuana (2 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substance (2 Counts).
Bond $20,000 secured
Walter Emanuel Epps, 59 years old, 302 Mineral Springs Rd. Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Cocaine (2 Counts), PWIMSD Cocaine (2 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substance (2 Counts), PWISD Cocaine.
Bond $100,000 secured
Jess Lee Althiser, 37 years old, 73 Whites Lane Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWISD Marijuana, Sell Marijuana, Maintain a Vehicle/Dwell/Place for Controlled Substance.
Bond $15,000 secured
James Franklin Priest, 35 years old, 305 Ridley Street Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWISD Cocaine (2 Counts), Sell Cocaine (2 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwell/Place for Controlled Substance (2 Counts).
Bond $25,000 secured
Reo Perry, 27 years old, 871 Walter Grissom Road Kittrell, NC 27544 – PWISD Marijuana, Sell Marijuana, Maintain a Vehicle/Dwell/Place for Controlled Substance, Conspire Sell Marijuana.
Bond $15,000 secured
Justina Webb, 29 years old, 871 Walter Grissom Road Kittrell, NC 27544 – Deliver Marijuana, PWISD Marijuana.
Bond $15,000 secured
Justin Lane Williams,24 years old, 118 Rex Place Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWISD Cocaine, Sell Cocaine, Maintain a Vehicle/Dwell/Place for Controlled Substance, Manufacture/Sell/Deliver/Possess with Intent Controlled Substance within 1000 ft of School.
Bond $40,000 secured
Dequon Seward, 25 years old, 150 Rough Lane Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWISD Marijuana, Sell Marijuana.
Bond $10,000 secured
Antonie Perry, 34 years old, 275 Cripple Creek Road Louisburg, NC 27549 – PWIMSD Cocaine, Sell Cocaine.
Bond $5,000 secured
Dennis Godwin, 44 years old, 113 Hopi Drive Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Heroin (2 Counts), PWIMSD Heroin (2 Counts), Conspire Sell/Deliver Schedule I Controlled Substance.
Bond $75,000 secured
Melissa Murphy, 46 years old, 216 MC Wilder Road Louisburg, NC 27549 – Sell Schedule II Controlled Substance (3 Counts), PWIMSD Schedule II Controlled Substance (3 Counts), Maintain a Vehicle/Dwell/Place for Controlled Substance (2 Counts), Trafficking, Opium or Heroin (3 Counts), Manufacture/Sell/Deliver/Possess with Intent Controlled Substance within 1000 ft of School.
Bond $150,000 secured
If you have information regarding Operation Impact or you would like to report drug activity in your area, please contact Sgt. Ken Pikę at (919) 496-2186.
Eric Lamont Joyner
Ashley Suri
Wilbert Stewart Jr.
Dennis Earl Fennell Jr
Joseph Albert Fowler Jr.
Ricky Patrick Hill Jr
Walter Emanuel Epps
Jess Lee Althiser
James Franklin Priest
Reo Perry
Justina Webb
Justin Lane Williams
Dequon Seward
Antonie Perry
Dennis Godwin
Melissa Murphy
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0124_Untitled-1.png.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-18 16:55:402020-08-25 06:55:50‘Operation Impact: Phase II’ Ends in 16 Arrests, 88 Drug Charges (Pics)
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-Information courtesy Maria Parham Health
To celebrate October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Maria Parham will host a free lunch and learn event on Thursday, October 24, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. This event will be offered at Maria Parham Multispecialty Clinic located at 1501 N. Bickett Blvd., Suite E, Louisburg, NC.
Topics will cover:
• Breast cancer resources
• Follow up resources if needed
• Prevention education
• Wellness information
For more information, call 252.436.1605
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsresize_0000s_0049_Maria-Parham-Health-WIZS.jpg.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-18 16:54:402019-10-18 16:54:40Maria Parham to Host Free Breast Cancer Awareness Lunch & Learn Event
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-Press Release, County of Franklin
Local veterans will be honored Monday, November 11, 2019, as Franklin County conducts its annual Veterans Day Program at the Louisburg National Guard Armory, located at 600 South Bickett Boulevard, Louisburg, NC. The official program will begin at 11 a.m.
Guest Speaker for the event will be Col. Kelly Jackson, US Army (Ret.), of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, where she serves as Service Member and Family Coordinator. Musical selections for the program will be rendered by the Louisburg High School Band and several talented citizens.
A meal of local favorites, prepared by the Justice Fire Department & Justice Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, will be served after the official program.
Citizens are encouraged to attend and share their appreciation for the Veterans of our county, state and nation who have bravely served our armed forces. This event is sponsored by Franklin County with support from a number of local sponsors.
For more information, contact Franklin County Veterans Services at 919-496-1939 or visit www.franklincountync.us.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0056_Franklin-County-NC.jpg.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-18 16:53:252019-10-18 16:53:25Franklin County’s Annual Veterans Day Program Set for Nov. 11
On Tuesday, October 15, 2019, the students and faculty of Vance-Granville Community College’s Nursing Programs wore pink to show support for breast cancer awareness.
On Tuesday, October 15, 2019, the students and faculty of the VGCC Nursing Programs wore pink to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. (VGCC photo)
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/VGCC-Breast-Cancer-Awareness-2019.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-16 16:56:082019-10-16 16:56:08VGCC Nursing Students, Faculty Wear Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness
Registration is now underway for the Seventh Annual Tour de Vance bike ride, scheduled for Saturday, October 19, 2019. The ride has been growing steadily since its inception, drawing families and first-timers in addition to the most seasoned of cyclists for four separate cycling events.
This year’s ride will help VGCC’s Endowment Fund to support scholarships for students enrolled in Health Sciences programs at the college. Programs include Associate Degree Nursing, Radiography, Practical Nursing, Histotechnology, Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technology.
Proceeds from this year’s ride will also go to the Vance County United Way. The organization’s goal is to support the work of local public service agencies such as the Addition Recovery Center for Men, Community Partners of Hope, Smart Start, Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, LifeLine Outreach and the Harold Sherman Adult Day Center.
Several different options are available for cyclists. The 9-mile “fun ride” is ideal for youth, families and beginners. A 20-mile course suits riders ready for a bit more distance. Experienced cyclists can choose a 31-mile “Forest and Farmland” circle route through the country or a 62-mile “metric century” that adds to that 31-mile circle route an out-and-back spur to the Kerr Lake area.
The rides will start and finish at VGCC’s Main Campus, located off Interstate 85 and Poplar Creek Road at 200 Community College Road in Henderson.
All riders can register through the Vance-Granville Community College website at vgcc.edu/tourdevance. Online registration will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18. On-site registration will be an option at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the event.
The 9-mile ride will cost $10 for each rider. The 20-mile ride will cost $20 for those who register by Sept. 9, increasing to $25 thereafter. The 31-mile and 62-mile (or “metric century”) rides will cost $30 for those who register by Sept. 9, increasing to $40 thereafter.
“Vance-Granville is honored to once again be associated with an event that has become such a success and a symbol of our college’s 50-year history of community involvement,” said Eddie Ferguson, director of the VGCC Endowment Fund. “Joining forces with the United Way means that we can make an even bigger impact, raising funds for good causes while promoting the importance of exercise and good health.”
Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. on Oct. 19. The 62-mile ride starts at 8:30 a.m., the 31-mile ride at 9:30, the 20-mile ride at 10 a.m., and the 9-mile ride at 10:30 a.m. Law enforcement will accompany riders on the 9-mile route.
Lunch will be provided.
Participating sponsors include Granville-Vance Public Health, Carolina GI Associates PC, Joel Goodwin MD, Barnett Properties, Henderson Fruit & Produce, Prim Rentals, T&T Laundries, Inc., AAA Gas, College Station, Ted’s Catering, and Bearpond Market.
For more information, contact Eddie Ferguson at (252) 738-3264 or tourdevance@vgcc.edu.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Tour-de-Vance-2019.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-14 16:56:582019-10-14 16:56:58Reminder: Tour de Vance Registration Runs Through Fri.; Bike Ride Set for Sat.
Vance-Granville Community College will hold Open House at all four campus locations on Saturday, October 19, 2019, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
At Open House, prospective students and their families will have the opportunity to take campus tours, learn more about the enrollment process and explore academic programs in VGCC’s Continuing Education and curriculum divisions.
In addition, the Franklin Campus in Louisburg will hold a Vanguard Flex Information Session on Saturday, October 19 at 10 a.m. in Room F1208.
Vanguard Flex provides adult learners with hybrid courses offered in the evenings and some Saturdays with flexible scheduling. Scheduling options include 8-week sessions with 2-3 on-campus meetings, one Saturday per month class meetings, weekly Live Webinars and more!
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/vgcc.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-11 16:52:502019-10-11 16:52:50VGCC to Hold Open House, Vanguard Flex Information Session
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-Press Release, USDA&CS
Starting Monday, Oct. 14, county governments and nonprofit groups may apply for funding assistance from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund for farmland preservation projects.
This year’s request for proposals includes statewide funding for conservation easements, agricultural development projects and agricultural plans. Applicants have until Dec. 13 to apply.
“With the new changes to the application, especially those involving donated easements, we can partner with our applicants to do even more to preserve farm and forestland in North Carolina,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
This cycle, applicant organizations may submit up to a total of six proposals regardless of category (perpetual easements, term easements, agricultural development projects/agricultural plans). A maximum of three applications per category per applicant may be awarded during this funding cycle.
Applications for donated easement proposals requesting only transaction cost assistance are not considered as one of the six proposals per funding cycle or as part of the maximum limit. Each organization or agency may submit up to four donated easement proposals per funding cycle.
The trust fund’s purpose is to support projects that encourage the preservation of qualifying agricultural, horticultural and forest lands to foster the growth, development and sustainability of family farms.
The grant application and guidelines are available at www.ncadfp.org/CycleXIII.htm. Call 919-707-3071 with questions.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0088_NC-Department-of-Agriculture-and-Consumer-Services-Logo.jpg.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-10-10 16:56:172019-10-10 16:56:17Farmland Preservation Grants Available Through NCDA&CS
