FBI: Muslim GI Found With Bomb Makings Near Ft. Hood

By Associated Press
An AWOL Soldier who was granted conscientious objector status is facing federal charges in connection with bomb-making materials found in his motel room near Fort Hood, Texas, where a radicalized Muslim Army major killed 13 and wounded 32 nearly two years ago.

Pfc. Naser Abdo, 21, was arrested Wednesday at a hotel where he was staying. Abdo had gone AWOL on July 4 from Fort Campbell, Ky., where he was facing charges of possessing child pornography, according to reports.
FBI spokesman Erik Vasys told The Associated Press today that Abdo will be charged with possessing bomb-making components.

"I would emphasize that any threat that Abdo posed is now over," he told the AP. "Suffice it to say we're looking into all aspects of Mr. Abdo's life to determine his motivations and intentions."
According to various reports, Killeen police arrested Abdo after receiving a call from a local gun shop owner who was suspicious of a man asking about .40-caliber ammunition, bought three boxes of 12-gauge ammo and a magazine for a pistol.
CNN reported the customer then took a cab to a surplus store and allegedly bought a military uniform.
Fort Hood on Nov. 5, 2009, was the site of carnage after Army psychiatrist Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan opened fire on a room full of Soldiers at the post. Witnesses say Hasan shouted “Alahu Akbar!” just before he drew a semi-automatic pistol and began firing. Hasan wounded one civilian police officer responding to the attack but was stopped when a second officer shot him five times, paralyzing him from the chest down, according to witnesses.
Hasan was arraigned only last week on 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 of attempted murder.
Abdo first made news about a year ago when he applied for conscientious objector status, reportedly to avoid deploying to Afghanistan. Already in the Army a year by then, he claimed that his military experience taught him that “no Muslim should serve in the U.S. Military.”

In an interview with ABC News last August, he claimed he entered the Army believing he would be protecting Islamic freedoms in Iraq and Afghanistan; that would make him a good Muslim, he said.
But he found was losing touch with his Muslim community and questioned if he was ready to die.
“I came to the conclusion that I wasn't ready to die and meet God,” he said.
He was granted conscientious objector status ultimately, but the Army also recommended he be discharged. His separation from the Army was delayed, according to reports, because he was being charged with possessing child porn.

Lanett child's death ruled an accidental drowning

By Associated Press

Police and emergency personnel responded to what has been ruled an accidental drowning at a Lanett residence Saturday, according to a Lanett Police Department release.

Once on the scene, emergency workers discovered a 3-year-old who had been pulled from a swimming pool at the residence.

The child, identified as Dallas Teague, was taken to Lanier Hospital in Valley, where the child was later pronounced dead, according to information provided by the Lanett Police Department.

No additional details were available as of press time Monday.

OZARK POLICE DEPARTMENT DAILY CRIME BULLETIN – Tuesday, August 2, 2011

AUGUST 1, 2011 – MONDAY:
@  8:43 am.  Domestic Violence 2nd. Washington Ave. Suspect (Jo Ann Ramsey Clark) stated she cut her
husband in the abdomen after an argument. Victim (Calvin Clark) was in the bed suffering with diabetic
problems. Victim had multiple cuts over his entire body.  

@  9:30 am. Harassment. Hull St. Victim (Alvin Thomas) stated suspect (Tammy Cooper) entered Quick
Service Cab office and started to unplug victim’s equipment from the electrical outlets.

 
@ 12:44 pm. Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Hull St. Victim (Geneice Jackson) stated suspect (Charles
James Whitfield) took her vehicle during a domestic argument and was planning to leave the state. 

@  6:21 pm. Harassing Communications. Yancey St. Victim (Lovely B. Smedley) reported suspect (Megan
Childress) repeatedly send text and calls the victim threatening bodily harm.

 
@ 10:15 pm. Menacing/Criminal Mischief 3rd. Hull St. Victim (Arthur Lee Griffin) stated suspect (Mary
Williams) threatened him with pepper spray and damaged the paint on his vehicle with an unknown
object. 

ARRESTS:
Amanda Kay Hughes – Failure to Appear (3). 883 S. Hwy 123. 21 YOA.

UPDATED: 10:15 am EDT, August 2, 2011 Emily's track has turned

click on photos to enlarge.

Emily remains a weak and fairly disorganized tropical storm this morning. Although there are some very cold cloud tops seen on IR satellite imagery, the inner core of the storm is not very well defined. Until and unless this changes for the better for Emily, it will not strengthen much. This won't matter too much for Hispaniola where a lot of rain is going to fall. Flash floods and mudslides are a near certainty as the storm drops several inches of rain on the region. Also consider the orographic lift of the mountains. They will act to squeeze out the moisture and enhance the tropical rains leading to excessive amounts in the end. Of course, Haiti is still dealing with the terrible earthquake from last year and will need to take measures to mitigate effects to life and property in this fragile nation. The faster Emily can move in and out, the better. So far, it looks as though it will be a quick passage with no stall or major slow down anticipated.

Of course the rugged terrain will also take a bite out of Emily as its circulation will become disrupted to some extent. How much so depends on how well organized it is in the first place. A weak, disorganized storm cannot get much more weak where as a stronger, well developed storm or hurricane would suffer more and have more energy to lose. We'll just have to wait and see how this plays out but Emily is not expected to be much of a storm once it passes over Hispaniola.

The track has changed which is always expected. Now it looks as though Florida will not have to deal with direct effects from Emily. There will be an increase in waves and rough surf once Emily crosses Hispaniola. In fact, if the forecast models verify and Emily turns away from the coast, missing completely, I assure you there will still be a dangerous surf issue to deal with all across the Southeast. It is too soon to know if Emily will ever make landfall along the U.S. mainland but it could be close. Let's first see if the storm survives its trip out of the Caribbean over the next couple of days. We will post updates this evening.

Dothan Police Department responded to an armed robbery at Citgo, 814 South Oates Street

UPDATE: AUG 2,2011

We have had issues with the video from Citgo. Technicians with DPD and WTVY have worked with us to try and open the file but unfortunately there is a problem that is preventing us from running it. Investigators returned to the store and were able to capture 2 still photographs of the suspect which are actually pretty good

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

On July 31, 2011 the Dothan Police Department responded to an armed robbery at Citgo, 814 South Oates Street. Upon arrival, police learned a black male wearing a red Alabama baseball cap, gray tee shirt, blue shoes and blue jeans entered the store armed with a handgun. The suspect demanded and received U. S. Currency before fleeing on foot. Police are asking anyone with information about the case or identity of the suspect to call the Dothan Police Department or CrimeStoppers 334-793-7000.






Gregory J. Benton
Chief of Police

Alabama Settles Parents’ Lawsuit Over Prepaid-Tuition Plan

Parents who bought contracts in Alabama’s Prepaid Affordable College Tuition program have settled a lawsuit they filed against the state after the program began running out of money, according to the Associated Press. Under the terms of the agreement, approved Wednesday by a state judge, the program will pay state-college tuition at the fall 2010 rate, with students and their families covering anything above that level. Last year the Alabama Legislature agreed to provide $547.6-million to keep the program afloat, but that wasn’t enough to fulfill all its obligations. “You can’t get blood out of a turnip,” a lawyer for the parents said. “This settlement at least got the turnip.”

Study: Small changes could prevent twister damage

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — A new study of tornado destruction in Tuscaloosa found that relatively minor changes in construction — things like better shingles, more anchors and thicker vinyl siding — could have prevented much of the damage to houses on the fringes of the twister.
Researchers said nothing could have saved structures that were in the direct path of the EF-4 tornado, which skirted the University of Alabama campus with winds up to 190 mph on its way through the city. Forecasters said it was one of the strongest twisters to hit the state during the severe weather outbreak that killed more than 240 people statewide on April 27.
"The winds are so high that a wood-frame structure is not going to withstand them. In those cases, you need a safe room," said researcher Andy Graettinger of the University of Alabama. "But the vast majority of the area (experienced) lower wind speeds that you can engineer for. You need to have the roof tied to the walls and the walls tied to the foundation to prevent major damage."
Homeowners on the fringes of the tornado would have been spared at least some damage with different construction methods or improvements to existing homes, Graettinger said. In some cases, he said, homes could have been saved from catastrophic damage by metal clips or straps that cost about $1 each.
"You're looking at a few thousand dollars for these clips that hold everything together," Graettinger said in an interview Friday. "It's a very small amount compared to the cost of the house."
The final report is being released Monday. The Associated Press obtained a copy in advance.
A research team funded by the National Science Foundation assessed more than 150 homes along the nearly six-mile path of the tornado in Tuscaloosa, looking at everything from homes that were leveled to those that weren't damaged at all.
The most serious damage was at the center of the path of destruction, where the swirling winds were strongest and the most debris flew through the air. Homes on the edges of the storm received far less damage because the storm was weaker on its edges, and the team focused on how to reduce damage in that zone.
Researchers found that basic changes like using wind-rated shingles; additional anchors at the bottom of porch columns; metal straps to link roofs with walls; and higher-quality vinyl siding could have made a huge difference in how well some homes survived the storm.
"We would have saved a lot of rebuilding cost if that had been done," said Graettinger, who worked with Alabama engineering professor John W. van de Lindt and other researchers on the project.
Researchers didn't determine how much the needed changes would add to the cost of a new home, or the cost of retrofitting existing homes to make them stronger. But they hope the findings will lead to better construction techniques in tornado-prone areas, much as coastal areas have adapted building codes and methods to help structures withstand hurricanes.

Albertville woman accused of stealing from graves

The Sand Mountain Reporter

ALBERTVILLE, Ala. (AP) — An unemployed Albertville woman has been accused of stealing bronze vases from graves and selling them to a local scrapyard.
Assistant Police Chief Jamie Smith says 30-year-old Laura McDill has been charged with theft of property and desecration of a burial ground. Her bond was set at $60,000. A phone listing for McDill could not be located.
Smith told The Sand Mountain Reporter that 11 urns were reported stolen from Marshall Memorial Gardens on July 18.
An officer who pulled over McDill for a traffic stop noticed an urn in her vehicle. Smith says that McDill confessed to stealing the urns and selling them to a scrapyard for $79 each. Detectives were able to recover those urns, but Smith says that more have gone missing.
___
Information from: The Sand Mountain Reporter, http://www.sandmountainreporter.com/

FEMA: Ala. tornado debris mostly removed

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Federal officials say more than 90 percent of the millions of cubic yards of debris left by the April 27 tornadoes have been removed.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency said Friday that the storms left more than 10 million cubic yards of debris.
FEMA says an effort by volunteers and local, state and federal agencies has gotten rid of the great majority of the debris.
FEMA says that to date, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has hauled away more than 4.7 million cubic yards of right-of-way, waterway and private property debris and deposited it in landfills. Private contractors and crews in counties and cities have removed an additional 4.3 million cubic yards.

Ex-lawmaker facing charges fired from school pos

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The Wilcox County Board of Education has voted to fire former state Rep. James Thomas from his job as principal of Wilcox Central High School in Camden. Thomas faces criminal charges that he sexually abused a 17-year-old student.
Wilcox Superintendent Rosa Ashmon said Friday the board voted to begin the legal process of firing Thomas. She said his pay would stop once the process is complete.
School board member Darryl Perryman said through a private Facebook message that the board voted Monday to fire Thomas. He said the action was taken during a specially called meeting of the school board.
On Tuesday, Wilcox County District Attorney Michael Jackson said Thomas had been indicted by the county grand jury on the felony charge of third-degree sex abuse and the misdemeanor charge of having sex with a student under 19.
Thomas has been on paid leave from his principal's job since he was charged in November with abusing a student.
He is free on bond. His bond was raised from $15,000 to $45,000 in December after he was accused of violating the terms of his bond, which prohibited him from attending Wilcox Central school events. He was accused of violating the court orders by attending Wilcox Central basketball games in Hayneville and Selma. Thomas said he misunderstood the court's original order and thought it was okay for him to attend road games.
Thomas' attorney, Lewis Gillis, said Friday he was considering taking action to get Thomas' job back. Gillis said he would meet with Thomas and discuss options for fighting his dismissal and the indictment. Thomas said earlier this week that he was expecting the grand jury indictment and expected to be found innocent when the case goes to trial.
Jackson said an arraignment for Thomas would be held in several months.
Thomas served for 28 years in the House, representing Autauga, Dallas, Lowndes and Wilcox counties in the economically disadvantaged Black Belt region in southwest Alabama.
The Alabama Legislature this year passed a bill streamlining Alabama's teacher tenure law to make it easier for schools to fire teachers and other school employees.
Republican House Speaker Mike Hubbard said situations like the one involving Thomas are why the new tenure law was passed. He encouraged Wilcox school officials to take action to remove Thomas from the payroll.
"Considering the new flexibility school systems now have, it would be a shame for them to not use it when it's needed the most," Hubbard said.

Ala moving investments in case of debt limit bust

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — The state is moving some of its investment funds to cash to guard against possible losses should Congress and the White House fail to reach agreement on an extension of the debt ceiling, the governor's office said Friday.
Jennifer Ardis, a spokeswoman for Gov. Robert Bentley, said department heads also had been asked to move as quickly as possible to bring in any federal funding their agencies may be due. They also were told to prioritize payments to protect the "most essential government services" in case federal funds stop flowing from Washington to Montgomery, Ardis said.
"The state is closely monitoring the debt limit issue in Washington and is developing a contingency plan in case the debt limit is not raised," she said.
Some analysts are predicting a sharp downturn in markets if the federal government fails to raise the debt ceiling, leading to a potential default and downgrade of the nation's credit rating. That could hurt investments and increase costs for cities and counties that go to the bond market to borrow money.
David Bronner oversees an investment portfolio worth more than $27 billion as CEO of the state's pension fund, the Retirement Systems of Alabama, but he said there's little he can do but watch and wait to see what happens with the debt ceiling debate in Washington.
About 61 percent of the pension fund's investments are in stock, and even a 10 percent drop in the stock market could cost more than $1.5 billion on paper. But unlike a small investor who could cash out, purchase short-term securities or buy gold that's already high-priced, Bronner said the pension fund must wait out the debt ceiling debate in Congress and see what happens.
"There's nothing you can really do of substance unless you want to take a bunch of derivatives," Bronner, the longtime chief executive of the fund, said in an interview. "The problem with that is that if you guess wrong you can get your head handed to you, too."
State Treasurer Young Boozer said officials have been monitoring the situation in his office, which manages state investments. Boozer, a first-term Republican, said the biggest potential impact is on the investments his staff oversees, but he is hopeful.
"We don't think it's going to have a significant impact on us," Boozer said.
Gov. Robert Bentley's press secretary, Jennifer Ardis, said the administration was preparing a contingency plan in case the debt limit is not raised. With the deadline approaching Tuesday, the state's plan was not far enough along to discuss specifics, she said.
The debate is being watched particularly closely in Huntsville, where about half the economy is tied to the Army or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration at Redstone Arsenal. Mayor Tommy Battle and Finance Director Randy Taylor said the city could suffer through credit downgrades and a decline in tax revenues should government operations slow down or grind to a halt, but the effects wouldn't be immediate.
"The worst-case effect is a trickle-down effect, and it will take a while for it to trickle down from Washington to Huntsville," said Battle.
___
AP reporter Jim Van Anglen in Montgomery contributed to this report

Gambling trial near end as defense calls 1 witness

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The federal gambling corruption trial of Alabama casino owner Milton McGregor and eight others neared its end when defense attorneys made a surprise decision Friday to rest their cases after calling just one witness and the trial judge gave jurors stern instructions that some say may have been inspired by another high profile Alabama trial.
U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson scheduled closing arguments to begin Wednesday. Defense attorneys said resting their cases was a gamble, but said they thought the government did not prove its cases and one attorney expressed concerns that jurors were ready for the case to wrap up.
The defendants include McGregor, four current or former state senators, two lobbyists, a legislative employee and a former spokesman for the Country Crossing casino. They are accused of buying and selling votes on a proposed constitutional amendment in the Alabama Legislature in 2010 to legalize electronic bingo games at some locations in Alabama.
Before sending jurors home Friday for what would be a long break before returning on Wednesday, Thompson told them they would be sequestered in a hotel for the remainder or the trial, beginning Wednesday, and would have no contact with the public. He told the jurors not to discuss the case with each other and to avoid websites or blogs.
Several attorneys felt that instruction was at least partly inspired by the 2006 federal trial of former Gov. Don Siegelman and former HealthSouth chief executive Richard Scrushy, who were convicted of bribery. In that case, Siegelman was accused of appointing Scrushy to an important hospital regulatory board in exchange for Scrushy arranging $500,000 in contributions to Siegelman's campaign for a lottery.
Siegelman and Scrushy partly based their appeals on claims that jurors discussed the case through emails and did research on the Internet.
Attorney Susan James, who represents indicted former Country Crossing casino spokesman Jay Walker, said she believes the Siegelman case "could have influenced" the judge's warning to jurors. James, who represented Siegelman in the sentencing phase of his trial, said instructions about using email and the Internet have become common since the Siegelman trial.
Attorney Joe Espy, representing McGregor, said he thought the Internet instructions were a reminder of the Siegelman case, but that the decision to sequester jurors during closing arguments and deliberations was something judges have to consider "in any big case."
Lewis Gillis, the attorney for indicted Democratic Sen. Quinton Ross of Montgomery, answered "yes," when asked if the Siegelman case influenced the judge's instructions to jurors.
"I'm sure it had something to do with it," he said.
Jim Parkman, attorney for indicted independent Sen. Harri Anne Smith of Dothan said the Siegelman trial was a learning experience on dealing with juries in the age of the Internet.
"We learned a lesson about texting and things like that," said Parkman.
Parkman said he had been looking forward to putting on a defense and that Smith had been anxious to testify. But he said he thought there was no evidence that his client had done anything wrong and he said he feared jurors were getting tired as the trial approaches its third month. He cited an incident on Monday when testimony ended at about 3 p.m. and some jurors cheered when Thompson told them they would be going home early.
"When I saw that reaction it told me they have had enough," Parkman said.
Prosecutors have declined to talk to reporters during the trial.
Espy said he met with McGregor and members of McGregor's family before deciding to rest.
McGregor's defense team felt that government had not proven that there were bribes offered and "we could not see going any further," Espy said.
Much of the case was based on telephone wiretaps and recordings of conversations defendants had with three legislators who wore taping equipment.
Attorneys said they expect closing arguments to last as long as two days. The judge will then give the jurors instructions on law — which could be lengthy because of the complex case that involves a 39-count indictment. Attorneys indicated jurors could begin deliberations sometime Friday.

Ozark Police looking for WHite SUV with Michael Jordan Sticker on back

There has been many fights break out in ozark and Activity at the Quality Inn, Ozark Police is now looking for a white SUV from Dothan, that has a Michael Jordan Sticker on back. Ozark Police believes that this person is involved with all the fights and issues at the quality inn.

Shots fired on ROSS DRIVE

Ozark Police is enroute to ROSS DRIVE in Ozark , Multiple 911 calls received  that shots has been fired one possible injury.

Ozark police responds to QUALITY INN SHOTS FIRED !

Sat July 30 11:45 pm Ozark Police responded to Quality inn  to a fight that end in shots fired. Ozark Police is on scene , parking lot has been cleared. police is on foot. we will keep you posted as we are informed.

Police responded to the residence of a Dothan Police Officer who was involved in the shooting

On July 30, 2011 the Dothan Police Department responded to a firearm assault on Third Avenue. Police responded to the residence of a Dothan Police Officer who was involved in the shooting. The investigation into this shooting is in the earliest stage however a preliminary investigation has revealed there was a documented history of domestic violence in the home between the officer and the officers’ adult son. Investigators have learned the involved parties have had limited contact following a documented domestic situation which occurred earlier this month. The shooting which occurred today appears to involve self defense on behalf of the officer involved. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he is receiving treatment for a moderate injury. Police have not released names of involved parties at this time.

Louisiana man selling 'Bear' Bryant's last Cadillac

 By Laura Metcalf
Special to The Tuscaloosa News

Lloyd Blocker, a car salesman from Bastrop, LA, knew he had a piece of history when he became the owner of the last Cadillac Paul “Bear” Bryant ever owned; he was just not able to prove it until now.

Blocker said he got possession of the car in 2005 when he purchased a warehouse of antique cars from someone’s estate. Until a few months ago, however, he was not able to prove the car once belonged to the legendary coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
“All the records are about gone once it gets that old,” Blocker said.
But that all changed a few months ago when he was contacted by a previous owner of the car, who said she had found the warranty papers proving the car once belonged to Bryant. Now that he has proof of the car’s significance, Blocker said he is putting it up for sale.
The car, which is a green 1972 Cadillac, had approximately 80 thousand miles on it and still runs, Blocker said.
Because the car has historical significance, Blocker said he is not sure what it is worth, but he plans to sell it for $10,000.
When he bought the car, it came with some hats and a picture signed by Bryant, Blocker said. He said he plans to sell those along with the car.
Blocker said although he is not particularly an Alabama fan, he does appreciate the skills that made Bryant a legend.
“He was a real good coach,” Blocker said.
He said it will not be difficult for him to part with the car, despite its uniqueness.
“I’m that kind of guy,” Blocker said, “I bought it to sell.”

www.tuscaloosanews.com

Who has been bad

OZARK POLICE DEPARTMENT
DAILY BULLETIN – Thursday, July 28, 2011

JULY 27, 2011 – WEDNESDAY:
@ 12:07 am. Duty Upon Striking an Unoccupied Vehicle. 1537 Hwy 231. Victim (Sally T. Skelly) stated
an unknown suspect struck her vehicle. 

@ 3:04 am. Possession of a Forged Instrument. 1090 Hwy 231. Complainant (Thomas r. Weldon) stated
an unknown paid for items with a counterfeit $5 bill. 

@ 8:42 am. Domestic Violence 3rd. Harris Rd. Victim (Tomekia Cooper) stated suspect/ex-boyfriend
entered her apartment, hit her several times and barricaded her and her son inside the apartment. 

@ 8:48 am. Duty Upon Striking an Unoccupied Vehicle. Dean Church Rd. Victim (Regina Johnson)
stated an unknown suspect hit her vehicle while it was parked in her driveway inside her fence.

@ 10:32 am. Fraudulent Use of a Credit/Debit Card. Grocery Outlet. Complainant (Tonya R. Watson)
stated suspects (Jamie L. Redding and Jesse J. Redding) were attempting to make a purchase with a
credit/debit card that had been reported stolen. 

@ 10:32 am. Criminal Trespass 1st. Grimes Rd. Victim (Melissa P. Prichard) stated an unknown suspect
entered her home, moved stuff around and deleted emails. 

@ 2:17 pm. Identity Theft. Andrews Ave. Victim (Brittny R. McLeod) stated an unknown suspect used
her personal information to obtain phone service in 2005. Suspect left bills unpaid. 

@ 5:19 pm. Failure to Pay for Gasoline. Broad St. Complainant stated and unknown person pumped
$5.00 in gasoline and drove away without paying.
 
@ 5:30 pm. Missing Person. Arthur Ave. Complainant (Kinnyarta R. Jones) stated subject/Dad (Leon
Jones) left the residence on foot in an unstable condition.  Subject was missing over 24 hrs before he was
found by a local resident.
 
@ 6:12 pm. Failure to Pay for Gasoline. Inland Gas Station. Complainant (Penelope A. Kline) stated an
unknown suspect pumped $15.00 in gas and left without paying. 

ARRESTS:
Jessica Diane Coots – Failure to Appear (2). 93 Ross Dr., Newton. 29 YOA.
Aaron Jiles – Domestic Violence 3rd. 1906 Andrews Avenue. 33 YOA.

two Dothan juvenile subjects involved in an altercation ends in stabbing

Press Release

July 28, 2011

On July 27, 2011 the Dothan Police Department responded to Wiregrass Park reference to a call involving two juvenile subjects involved in an altercation.  During the course of the incident one of the juveniles was stabbed by the other juvenile involved and subsequently transported to a local hospital to receive stitches.  Following the initial reporting of the incident, officers were able to locate the juvenile suspect at a nearby residence and take him into custody.  The juvenile suspect was transported to and being held at the Diversion Center at this time.

Gregory J. Benton

Chief of Police

Walmart employee charged with taking pictures of children in bathroom

 By The Associated Press

Steven Wallace Davidson Jr

DOTHAN, Alabama — Dothan police say a man is charged with taking pictures of children in the restroom at a Walmart store.
Police say they arrested 34-year-old Steven Wallace Davidson Jr. and charged him with the production of child pornography.
Houston County District Court Judge Benjamin Lewis set the bail for Davidson at $1 million on Wednesday.
Davidson has been at the Houston County Jail since his arrest on July 18.
Dothan Police Sgt. Doug Magill says some pictures were taken while Davidson worked at Walmart.
Attorney Eric Davis, who represents Davidson, says his client is not a flight risk because his family lives in Dothan.

Federal government paying state trooper salaries; 38 troopers laid off, immediately re-hired

By The Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — The federal government is now paying the salary for almost 40 Alabama state troopers.
The Department of Public Safety says it laid off 38 troopers on Thursday. But they were immediately rehired using federal grant money. The agency says motorists won't see any change on state highways, and no patrols are being curtailed.
The department is facing a $6 million budget shortfall, and the grant will cover almost half of that.

PACT settlement: Attorney for parent says appeal possible

By The Associated Press MONTGOMERY, Alabama — The attorney for a parent who opposes a legal settlement involving the state's prepaid college tuition plan says he expects that a judge's decision to OK the deal will be appealed.
David Rayfield says the PACT program should meet all financial obligations to those who bought contracts and questions cost projections that led to those overseeing the plan to declare a crisis. Others involved in the settlement say it's the best agreement possible, given the program's financial difficulties.
Montgomery County Circuit Judge Johnny Hardwick approved the settlement Wednesday. It allows parents who bought contracts to be paid in the future at the level that was due to them in autumn 2010. Students will be able to attend college with much of their tuition paid but must cover tuition increases since last fall.

Former chairman of GOP-leaning PAC defends transfer before law went into effect

By The Associated Press 
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — The former chair of a Republican-leaning political action committee says a PAC controlled by Alabama House Speaker Mike Hubbard made a transfer to his PAC days after the Legislature passed a ban on the practice — and hours before Gov. Bob Riley signed the ban into law.
The development comes after the Alabama Democratic Party's chairman accused Republican leaders of breaking the law against PAC-to-PAC transfers.
Hubbard, R-Auburn, denies the allegation. His spokesman, Todd Stacy, says the PAC associated with Hubbard abided by the law and "disclosed every penny."
John Ross, a former state Republican Party leader who chairs the 136 Years PAC, says a $5,000 transfer from NETPAC on Dec. 20 was legal. Alabama House Speaker Mike HubbardHubbard was listed as treasurer of NETPAC.
That transfer was made days after the House approved the PAC-to-PAC ban.

A Fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

This fundraiser is for a good cause to help out the boys & girls club.

Ms. Alabama Nursing Home is crowned

HOOVER - AL -The Ms. Alabama Nursing Home pageant now has a new representative.  Ms. Felma Schrimshire was crowned Monday, July 25 at The Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover.  Ms. Schrimshire, age 100, is a resident at Andalusia Manor in Andalusia. 

Ms. Felma Schrimshire

The current Ms. Alabama Nursing Home was born and raised in Covington County and later moved to several places to work before retiring in Andalusia.  She began teaching Sunday School when she was only 12 years old and taught for 78 years.  Ms. Schrimshire has traveled to all 50 states, every Canadian province and several European countries.  Ms. Schrimshire, who lives at Andalusia Manor with her sister, enjoys Bible study and encourages her fellow residents to get involved with nursing home activities.
As Ms. Alabama Nursing Home, Ms. Schrimshire will travel to various nursing homes and community events to share her experiences.  During her reign, she will also serve as an ambassador for nursing home residents at several Alabama Nursing Home Association events.
The runners-up are:
1^st Runner-up: Bessie Smitherman, Ms. Shelby Ridge Rehab Select, Alabaster, Age 90
2^nd Runner-up: Katherine Sanders, Ms. Arbor Springs Health & Rehab, Opelika, Age 76
3^rd Runner up: Verma Reeves, Ms. Lineville Health & Rehab, Lineville, Age 89
4^th Runner up: Mary Lois Shannon, Ms. Willow Trace Nursing Center, Butler, Age 101
The top 10 finalists from the field of 75 contestants had individual interviews with the panel of celebrity judges before competing on stage for the crown.  All of the other contestants in attendance were part of the Honor Court and were individually recognized during the pageant.
"Each lady is a winner because she is actively involved in the life of her nursing home and shares her optimistic outlook on life with her fellow residents," Alabama Nursing Home Association Executive Director Louis Cottrell said.  "All of the ladies that participated are wonderful ambassadors of their individual nursing homes and long-term care in our state."

Judge approves prepaid college tuition settlement

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — A Montgomery County circuit judge approved a settlement Wednesday that will allow parents who bought contracts in the state's Prepaid Affordable College Tuition program to be paid in the future at the level that was due to them in autumn 2010.
The settlement will allow students to attend college with much of their tuition paid, but the students will have to pay any increases in tuition since last fall.
The state started PACT more than 20 years ago with parents paying in a fixed amount of money, expecting that after graduating from high school, college tuition would be paid. The program worked well until 2009 when plunging stock prices and rising tuition costs combined to put the program in financial jeopardy.
The co-founder of the group Save Alabama PACT, Patti Lambert, described the settlement as bittersweet.
"It's not what we paid for and not what we wanted but it's better than the alternative," Lambert said.
Attorney Doyle Fuller, lead attorney for plaintiffs, said he was pleased, but not surprised that the judge approved it because within three years, the program would have completely run out of money.
"Thousands of people would have lost everything they put into it," Fuller said. "It was really the only reasonable thing to do."
Fuller said he wishes that participants could have gotten everything that they signed up for but that the reality is that the program does not have the money to do that.
"As somebody said ... You can't get blood out of a turnip. This settlement at least got the turnip."
Fuller said that at least the children will get something significant out of the program. He said the average amount paid in is $7,300 and the average pay out for four years of college is $33,000.
"They're getting a fairly good return on their investment," Fuller said.
In approving the settlement, Judge Johnny Hardwick also approved an agreement for attorneys to be paid almost $5 million from the settlement for plaintiff's attorney fees.
The judge said in his order that he found the attorney fees to be "fair and reasonable" and significantly lower than normal fees in such complicated cases.
Alabama Treasurer Young Boozer, a member of the PACT Board, praised the settlement.
"The settlement provides benefits for all contract holders, preserves substantial value and protects the program with a long-term financial plan," Boozer said. "This is the best possible outcome for PACT participants, given the available assets."
In his order, Hardwick found that there are about 40,000 PACT contracts that represent about 30,000 individuals.
Hardwick said the program does not have the assets to assure payment of full tuition and expenses for all of those contracts.
"The proposed settlement would serve to address the undisputed funding shortfall by establishing parameters for an equitable distribution of the limited assets," Hardwick said.
The Legislature in 2010 passed a bill to pump about $548 million into the program over about the next 15 years, but attorneys said that is not expected to be enough to fully fund all contracts.
___
Associated Press writer Jim Van Anglin contributed to this report.

Alabama man accused of hunting, keeping reptiles

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Authorities say an Alabama man has been indicted after prosecutors say he traveled to Arizona for the past six years to hunt and capture reptiles that are protected by law.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance in Alabama on Tuesday announced the indictment of 43-year-old David Langella of Scottsboro.
The indictment accuses Langella of going to Arizona in 2009 to provide guide services to others for the capture of Gila monsters and Ridge nosed rattle snakes. Prosecutors say Arizona state law prohibits the hunting and capture of both animals.
Prosecutors say Langella transported some of the illegally captured reptiles back to Alabama for his own collection, and some were distributed to others.
It wasn't known late Tuesday whether Langella has an attorney in the case.

Former Ala. lawmaker accused of abusing student

Associated Press

CAMDEN, Ala. (AP) — Authorities say a former lawmaker and Wilcox County school principal has been indicted on charges that he sexually abused a 17-year-old student at his school.
Wilcox County District Attorney Michael Jackson said Tuesday the county grand jury indicted former state Rep. James Thomas on the felony charge of third-degree sex abuse and the misdemeanor charge of a school employee having sex with a student under 19.
Thomas of Selma was charged in November with abusing a student at Wilcox Central High School. Wilcox County schools officials say Thomas is on indefinite paid leave. He served in the House for 28 years before losing in last year's Democratic primary.
Thomas said Tuesday night he was not surprised by the indictment and is "totally confident" he will be found innocent at trial.

OZARK POLICE DEPARTMENT DAILY CRIME BULLETIN

OZARK POLICE DEPARTMENT

DAILY BULLETIN – Tuesday, July 26, 2011

JULY 25, 2011 – MONDAY:

@ 11:07 am. - Harassment. Alberta Dr. Victim (Pam Boarders) stated she was in a minor accident with the

suspect (Harry Holman), where she was responsible for the damages. Victim stated suspect came to her

address unannounced and continuously blew the horn. 

@ 1:10 pm. – Domestic Violence 3

rd. Hazelwood Dr. Victim (Amy Williams) stated suspect (Joshua D.Bryant) left the house then came back for his cell phone. Suspect became irate when he couldn’t find the phone and began punching the walls. Suspect struck victim when she attempted to stop him. Suspect went outside and tore down the meter box and told victim he was going to kill her and her son. 

@ 1:21 pm. – Identity Theft. Montgomery. Victim (John A. Young) stated an unknown suspect with the

same last name used is identification to file income tax.

@ 1:30 pm. – Unlawful B & E of a Vehicle/Theft of Property 3rd. Victim (William E. Hardwick) stated an unknown suspect entered his secure vehicle and removed a Pioneer Touch Screen Radio.

@ 4:37 pm. – Theft of Property 3rd. S. Union. Complainant (William S. Warren) stated an unknown

suspect stole his garbage can.

 

@ 5:30 pm. – Theft of Property 3rd. Hillcrest St. Victim (Teresa Renee Summers) stated an unknown

suspect stole her son’s bike. 

@ 8:11 pm. - Unlawful B & E Vehicle. Alabama Aviation College. Victim (Zachary J. Hale) stated an

unknown suspect entered his vehicle and removed several items. 

@ 8:24 pm. – Theft of Property 1st/Unlawful B & E of A Vehicle. US Hwy 231. Victim (David K. Evans)

stated an unknown suspect entered his vehicle and removed several items.

@ 9:23 pm. – Unlawful B & E of Vehicle/Theft of Property 3rd. Hwy 231 S. Victim (Damon C. Miller)

stated an unknown suspect removed items. 

ARRESTS:

Arleta Janae Blakely – Failure to Appear. 270 Emma Avenue. 22 YOA.

Joshua DeWayne Bryant – Domestic Violence 3 rd. 538 S. County Rd 21. 25 YOA

Damien P. Reed – Minor in Possession of Alcohol. 659 Joseph Dr. 19 YOA

Crosby upbeat as judge ponders dismissing charges

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson spent more than eight hours Wednesday hearing arguments about why he should throw out charges against Macon County casino owner Milton McGregor and eight other defendants in a gambling corruption trial.
The judge said he would rule on the motions to dismiss at 8 a.m. Thursday, an hour before defense attorneys are scheduled to begin presenting their cases. Thompson hinted he might throw out some of the charges in the 39-count indictment.
Prosecutor Eric Olshan urged Thompson to not drop charges against any of the defendants. He said evidence presented so far has shown that all the defendants worked together in a conspiracy to pass a bill to legalize electronic bingo games in Alabama.
For several years, gambling operators profited from electronic bingo machines until the previous governor's task force labeled them illegal slots and began closing all casinos in early 2010. Most of the state's bingo operations were eventually shut down even though gambling operators had pushed for a constitutional amendment to protect their halls and allow more to open.
"Their goal was to pass this legislation through bribery. There was an illicit, concealed effort to pass this legislation," Olshan said.
But defense attorneys told Thompson repeatedly that their clients did not accept or give bribes to get the legislation passed. McGregor attorney Sam Heldman said many of the charges are based on FBI recorded conversations where the defendants were discussing the gambling legislation.
"It is not a crime to discuss money and politics," Heldman said.
Prosecutors rested their cases Tuesday.
Thompson went through the counts in the 39-count indictment line by line asking prosecutors and defense attorneys how each defendant was involved in what prosecutors say was a conspiracy to buy and sell votes on the gambling bill, that passed in the Senate in March 2010, but died in the Alabama House after the FBI revealed a widespread investigation into government corruption.
After the prosecution rested, Thompson said he particularly wanted to know more about what part one of the defendants, indicted former legislative employee Ray Crosby played in the conspiracy. Crosby worked for the Legislative Reference Service and helped write the gambling bill.
Evidence showed that McGregor paid Crosby about $72,000 in the months leading up to the vote on the bill, but his attorneys argued he was not part of any conspiracy to influence legislators' votes.
Crosby was confident as he walked into the federal courthouse Wednesday and said it was going to be "a Crosby day."
Prosecutors have based much of their case on wiretaps of defendants' phones and recordings made with hidden devices worn by cooperating legislators.
The prosecutors have contended that casino owners attempted to buy votes to pass an amendment to legalize electronic bingo at McGregor's Victoryland in Macon County and Ronnie Gilley's Country Crossing among other locations. At the same time, then-Gov. Bob Riley was using an antigambling task force to shut down gambling halls.
Gilley was originally charged in the case, but pleaded \ and testified against McGregor and the others. .

Teen faces charges in improvised explosives case

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) —
A federal grand jury has indicted a 19-year-old Homewood man for possessing and manufacturing three improvised explosive devices.
State and local authorities arrested Solomon O'Connor Flowers on July 3, according to U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance of the Northern District of Alabama. The grand jury issued a two-count indictment against Flowers on Tuesday.
If convicted, Flowers faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years on each charge.

Prosecutors rest in Ala gambling corruption trial

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — After more than seven weeks of testimony, federal prosecutors rested their case Tuesday against nine people including a casino owner and lawmakers in what prosecutors say was a scheme to buy and sell votes on a bill to legalize electronic bingo in Alabama.
Defendants will get their turn on Thursday to present their side in the trial that has rocked the State house.
Prosecutors based much of their case on wiretaps of defendants' phones and recordings made with hidden devices worn by cooperating legislators.
Prosecutor Steve Feaga has contended that casino owners attempted to buy votes to pass an amendment to legalize electronic bingo at defendant Milton McGregor's Victoryland in Macon County and Ronnie Gilley's Country Crossing among other locations. At the same time, then-Gov. Bob Riley was using an anti-gambling task force to shut down gambling halls.
The legislation passed the Senate in March 2010, then died in the House after the FBI revealed a widespread investigation into government corruption.
Some of the final testimony Tuesday concerned phone records that showed McGregor and Gilley were keeping in close touch with their lobbyists in the days leading up to the Senate vote.
FBI agent Nathan Langmark testified there were 172 phone calls during 100 days of the legislative session between phones associated with McGregor and those of his indicted lobbyist Tom Coker. He said there were 586 calls between Gilley, who has pleaded guilty in the case, and his lobbyist Jarrod Massey. Gilley and Massey both pleaded guilty.
The final evidence entered before prosecutors rested showed how McGregor was hurt financially by Riley's effort to shut down the electronic bingo games. According the federal income tax filings, McGregor personally had gross income of $28.3 million in 2009 and his business made $40.2 million. In 2010, after he had to shut many of his operations, McGregor personally lost $2.5 million and his business lost $4.8 million.
Gambling operators profited from electronic bingo machines for several years until the task force labeled them illegal slots and began closing all casinos in early 2010. Gambling operators pushed the constitutional amendment to protect their halls and allow more to open.
Arrests came in October, when a federal grand jury charged that millions in bribes were offered through campaign contributions and contracts. Defendants face several charges including conspiracy, federal program bribery and honest services mail and wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson sent jurors home after prosecutors rested and said he would spend much of Wednesday hearing arguments from defense attorneys seeking to have charges dismissed against their clients.
Thompson indicated he would likely not drop charges against McGregor, once Alabama's largest casino owner, and most other defendants, which include four current and former lawmakers and two of state's most influential lobbyists, who worked for McGregor.
He said he wants to hear arguments about how the government says former Legislative Reference Service employee Ray Crosby was tied to the conspiracy to sell votes.
FBI forensic accountant Phillip Harrod testified that bank records show that $72,000 was paid to Crosby from the Macon County Greyhound Park between June 2008 and April 2010. Crosby was the Legislature's lead attorney in writing the gambling legislation and prosecutors say the money was paid in violation of legislative rules to influence him.
"I would like to hear what the evidence is to Mr. Crosby being part of the conspiracy," Thompson said.
He said he also wanted to hear more about how indicted former state Sen. Jim Preuitt was involved in the conspiracy.
Country Crossing lobbyist Jennifer Pouncey, who pleaded guilty, testified earlier in the trial that she offered Preuitt a $2 million campaign contribution to vote for the gambling bill, but under cross examination said he never committed to vote for the bill in exchange for the contribution. Preuitt later decided not to run for re-election.
Besides McGregor, Coker, Crosby and Preuitt, also on trial are:
— McGregor lobbyist Bob Geddie;
— Jarrell W. "Jay" Walker Jr. of Lanett, Ala., a former employee of Gilley;
— Harri Anne Smith of Slocomb, independent state senator;
— Larry P. Means of Attalla, former Democratic state senator;
— Quinton T. Ross Jr. of Montgomery, Democratic state senator.

Chief justice orders reduction in office hours

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb has ordered circuit court clerks statewide to close their doors to the public for up to 10 hours a week starting next month.
Cobb cited the judicial system's ongoing financial crunch for the move. She anticipates that about 250 of Alabama's 750 circuit court clerk workers will be laid off in September because next year's court system budget has been slashed by more than 10 percent. Fiscal 2012 begins Oct. 1.
"The state's court system is in crisis," Cobb said in her order, issued Monday.
Staff members in each clerk's office will continue to work their regular hours, allowing them to catch up on required duties in anticipation of the upcoming layoffs, Cobb said. Clerks must tell the administrative director of courts what hours their offices will be shuttered and notify the public as well. Clerks also must make arrangements to handle time-sensitive filings and emergency matters — such as arrest warrants, search warrants and temporary restraining orders — when their offices are closed.
The reduced hours, which should be in place by mid-August, will remain in effect until another order is issued revoking them. There are nearly 70 elected circuit court clerks in Alabama; some of them oversee more than one office.
Cobb, who is stepping down Aug. 1, contended that the Legislature has underfunded the state judicial system by $32 million over the past decade. Mandatory across-the-board budget cuts, known as proration, instituted by Gov. Robert Bentley earlier this year "further exacerbated the fragility of the current operations of the court system," Cobb said in her order.
The court system will take another hit in fiscal 2012, according to Cobb, when its budget will be $138 million, or $16 million less than this year.
Cobb said that with 750 workers, circuit court clerk offices are staffed at 65 percent to 70 percent of what is recommended by the National Center for State Courts. The upcoming layoffs will drop that number to 40 percent to 45 percent.
Florence Cauthen, circuit clerk for the 15th Judicial Circuit in Montgomery, said no decision has been made regarding reduced hours for her office, adding that she will consult with the presiding judge on how to proceed.
"We want to be open as much as possible," she said. "We will try to select those hours that will minimize the impact."
Anne-Marie Adams, circuit clerk for the 10th Judicial Circuit in Jefferson County, said her office should have 101 employees, according to the National Center for State Courts manpower formula. She has 62 and expects to be down to 40 as of Sept. 1 because of the 2012 budget cuts. She said the number of jury trials already has been cut in half for the rest of the fiscal year.
Adams said it will take time to figure out how to reduce hours but the main focus will be serving the public. She is not sure what effect Cobb's order will have on the operation of her office.
"This has not been done before to my knowledge," she said. "I really don't have a feel as to whether it will or will not work."
Jody Wise Campbell, circuit clerk for the 20th Judicial Circuit in Baldwin County, said she doesn't expect her office to have to reduce hours, noting that Cobb's order said clerks must cut "up to 10 hours per week."
She said members of the Legislature from Baldwin County won passage of a local law in 2003 adding $15 per case. Money generated from that fee was put away and has helped save jobs in her office.
"That's the only way we've kept our heads above water," Wise Campbell said.
She said her office is supposed to have 41 employees according to the manpower formula. There are currently 30, with 28 funded by the state. She said 18 will be covered by the state during the next fiscal year. She said her office is very busy but will continue stay open for the public.
"I have a lot of great, hard-working employees," Wise Campbell said.

Uzbekistan man accused of threats to Obama

Associated Press

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Authorities say a federal grand jury has indicted a Uzbekistan national accused of threatening to kill President Barack Obama and illegally possessing an M15 machine gun.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance in Alabama on Tuesday announced the indictment of 21-year-old Ulugbek Kodirov of Uzbekistan. He faces charges of threatening the president; being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm; and unlawfully possessing a fully automatic weapon. He's also charged with receiving and possessing an unregistered grenade.
Vance said in a statement that he repeatedly threatened to kill the president.
Court records say he was arrested July 13 at a motel near Birmingham after prosecutors say he obtained the machine gun from an undercover agent.
It wasn't known Tuesday whether he has an attorney representing him.

Ala. tourism meeting targets foreign visitors

Associated Press

FLORENCE, Ala. (AP) — More than 250 industry professionals from across Alabama are in Florence for a three-day governor's conference on tourism to discuss ways to bring more international visitors to the state.
The Alabama Tourism Department says international tourists brought about $230 million in revenue to Alabama last year.
Edith Parten, communication director with the Alabama Tourism Department, says tourism officials want to get the word out to travelers about things to do in Alabama.
Tourism officials say visitors to northwest Alabama are attracted by the area's musical tradition, food and historic sites.

Jurors see bank records in Alabama gambling trial

Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — An FBI forensic accountant has testified that bank records show that $72,000 was paid to Alabama Legislature employee Ray Crosby from the Macon County Greyhound Park between June 2008 and April 2010.
Prosecutors say the money was paid to Crosby in violation of legislative rules to influence the writing of gambling legislation. Crosby was the Legislature's lead attorney in writing the legislation.
Macon County Greyhound Park is operated by casino owner Milton McGregor. McGregor, Crosby, two lobbyists, four present and former senators and a casino spokesman are on trial in federal court in Montgomery in what prosecutors say was a scheme to buy and sell votes on pro-gambling legislation.
The trial has moved into its eighth week. Prosecutors are expected to wrap up presenting their cases Monday.

Southwest flight from Birmingham makes emergency landing in North Carolina

By The Associated Press
GREENSBORO, N.C. — No injuries were reported when a Southwest Airlines plane made an emergency landing at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro.
An airline spokeswoman says Flight 999 was headed to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport from Birmingham, Ala., Monday morning when it landed in Greensboro because a light in the captain's cabin indicated a fire in the cargo area.
No fire was found, and no injuries were reported among the 91 passengers and five crew members.

Groups ask federal judge for special master to oversee Gulf oil spill claims

By The Associated Press

The lead attorneys for people and businesses suing BP over last year's Gulf oil spill want a federal judge to appoint a special master to oversee the claims process.

Kenneth Feinberg

They said in court papers Monday that administrator Kenneth Feinberg has been too slow to process interim payments from the $20 billion fund that BP set up to compensate people who lost their livelihoods when crude oil gushed from BP's blown well. The payments are meant to tide people over until claims are settled.

The lawyers said BP and Feinberg's Gulf Coast Claims Facility have benefited from desperate victims who choose quick, one-time payments in exchange for promises not to sue. There was no immediate ruling by the court in New Orleans.

Last week, the Justice Department said an independent audit would be done to determine if claims are being processed appropriately.

Feinberg said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press that the GCCF has made interim payments to more than 20,000 claimants and that there are more than 40,000 final payment offers outstanding. He said some $250 million in interim payments have been made. Feinberg said the GCCF will respond to the court filing in "due course" but did not elaborate.

An AP review published in February that included interviews with legal experts, government officials and more than 300 Gulf residents found a claims process beset by red tape and delay, and at the center of it all a fund administrator whose ties to BP have raised questions about his independence. As of Monday, roughly $4.8 billion of the $20 billion has been paid out to 199,248 claimants.

Feinberg, the Washington lawyer who runs the fund and was lauded for his work overseeing the compensation fund for 9/11 victims, has insisted he is being fair.

He has acknowledged that the system is clogged by the sheer volume of oil spill claims, along with inflated or outlandish requests. More than a year after the disaster, complaints about the process continue. Despite those complaints, BP has argued repeatedly that it believes the payouts have been too generous, and it has prodded Feinberg to scale things back.

The Deepwater Horizon rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana on April 20, 2010, killing 11 men and leading to the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history. The rig was owned by Transocean and was being leased by BP to drill the oil giant's well a mile beneath the sea.

Dale County Sheriff Dept AIR ONE has to make Emergency Landing

We have received report that Dale County Air One Helicopter had to make an emergency landing in Abbeville, Al due to check engine light came on. Moments later they reported everything was fine and they are back in the air.

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