News Progress

Photo by Mike Brothers
County Board Chair Dave McCabe presents Ron White with plaque.

•February 21, 2018•

Moultrie County Board members honored retiring member Ron White at the regular meeting Feb. 15. Chairman Dave McCabe presented White a plaque for his 15 years of service, noting that he served during the building of the county jail and health department.

White and wife Sharon attended the meeting with her joking that she needed his nameplate from the county board to help keep track of him in the future. “It’s been a pleasure to be of service to the people of Moultrie County,” White concluded.

Following the presentation McCabe proposed that the Budget and Finance Committee, which White chaired, become a committee of the whole with meetings prior to regular board meetings until fall elections and White’s permanent replacement is seated.

Kevin McReynolds was nominated and approved unanimously as vice-chairman of the county board. Read More

Photo by Ellen Ferrera
Bethany Village Board welcomes new police chief. (L-R) Jack Kiley, David Doty, Jonathan Book, Police Chief Chris Nichols, Greg McLain, Raven Russell and village president Bill Ashley (front).

•February 14, 2018•

By Ellen Ferrera
for the News Progress

Chris Nichols, Bethany police chief, told Bethany Village Board members about a program of getting rid of junk autos in the village.

The recently appointed chief suggested that a grant for a new squad car might be available from the state, but it will depend on funding from the federal government in the funding budget.

The estimated cost for a new car, fully equipped, is $39,000, and bids are being considered. The board then discussed the need for body cameras and spotlights, but no action was taken.

Board president Bill Ashley gaveled the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8.  Read More

•February 7, 2018•

By Mike Brothers

A Moultrie County jury determined Nathan Ragsdale, 39, was not fit to stand trial for the 2016 felony charge of disarming a police officer.

“We, the jury, find the defendant Nathan Ragsdale unfit to stand trial and also that there is a substantial probability that the defendant, if provided with a course of treatment, will attain fitness within one year.”

At 4:48 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30 after 45 minutes deliberation the jury returned the “unfit” verdict for the Sullivan man. Ragsdale was remanded to Moultrie County Jail awaiting transportation to MacFarland Mental Health Center in Springfield where he will receive treatment and evaluation for his eventual return.

Circuit Judge Hugh Finson presided over the trial in which the defendant asked a jury rather than court appointed experts to determine his fitness. Read More