Community

Marshall County Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Federal Drug, Gun Crimes

Joseph William Alfred, also known as “Chris,” age 51, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for methamphetamine and firearms charges, United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced. Following a trial in July 2025, a jury found Alfred guilty of the distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a firearm, and failure to appear. A package shipped from an address in California containing more than two pounds of methamphetamine was intercepted by the United ...

Homeless Encampment Cleanup Continues

The cleanup of the homeless encampment near Peninsula Cemetery in Fulton stretched into a second day Wednesday, as city crews continued pulling refuse out of the area. Dozens of Dumpsters of leftover items were hauled away when cleanup began Tuesday. Workers were cleaning up items that were ...

Residents Fear School Closures

NEW CUMBERLAND — While no definitive decisions have been announced on any staffing or facility cuts as a result of budget difficulties being faced within Hancock County Schools, several residents appeared before the board of education Monday, expressing concern about the possibility of one elementary school being closed. Several dozen residents gathered for Monday's Hancock County Board of Education meeting, with five addressing the board directly, after financial concerns were revealed, with officials noting the possibility of large reductions in force within the district's ...

West Liberty University Earns CAEP Accreditation For Educator Preparation

West Liberty University announced Wednesday that it has earned accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). “These providers meet high standards so that their students receive an education that prepares them to succeed in a diverse range of classrooms after they graduate,” said CAEP President Christopher A. Koch. “Seeking CAEP Accreditation is a significant commitment on the part of an educator preparation provider.” CAEP is a nationally recognized accrediting body for educator preparation. Accreditation is a nongovernmental activity ...

Lockhart Named New Marshall County Assessor

Marshall County has a new assessor, as Amanda Lockhart has been appointed to the position. She was sworn in Tuesday by Judge Richard Wilson. Lockhart, a lifelong Marshall County resident, has worked in the county assessor’s office since June 2012. She started as an out-of-state plate ...