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News That Affects You Archives for 2020-02

Head on car accident claims life of Big Rapids woman; second driver in critical condition

 

 

***UPDATE***

Driver of 1995 Chevy was Teshia Yates, Deceased

Driver of 2015 Chevy was Patrick Bailey, Serious but Stable Condition

 

 

A Big Rapids woman died from injuries sustained in a head on car accident while the second driver involved is in critical condition at a Grand Rapids hospital.

 

Osceola County Sheriff Ed WIliams says it happened just before 5:30pm Thursday on Old-131 between Meceola Rd and 1 Mile Rd. in Richmond Township.

 

Willams says a 26-year old Big Rapids woman driving a 1995 Chevy Pickup was north bound on Old-131 when she lost control and crossed the center line hitting head on with a south bound vehicle and sustained fatal injuries.


The south bound vehicle a 2015 Chevy Pickup was operated by a 44-year old Big Rapids man. He was
transported to Butterworth Hospital for severe injuries and remains in critical condition.


An occupant in the north bound vehicle were taken to Reed City Hospital and released shortly after being cleared from the ER.

 

Police believe weather conditions were a factor in this crash.

 

City of Big Rapids to conduct hydrant flush

The City of Big Rapids will be flushing fire hydrants to test flow and capacity, remove mineras and sediment
that build up over time in the water system and to insure good working order of the hydrants.

 

Flushing is scheduled for February 27th , 2020, February 28th , 2020 and March 2nd , 2020.

 

Low pressure, discoloration, or cloudiness are possible following hydrant flushing in your area. Generally, this will clear up by running cold water for several minutes. Although the water is considered safe to use during this time, customers should refrain from doing laundry when water is discolored.

 

Water from the hydrant may be on the streets and sidewalks in the immediate vicinity of the testing area.
Drivers and pedestrians should proceed cautiously in these areas.

Reed City Police Blotter for 2/16-2/22

The Reed City Police Department is asking anyone, within the city limits, who had contact with a company
offering to “lock in gas rates”, and later found to have been entered into a contract without giving consent, to
contact the Reed City Police Department. Some residents may have been victim to being enrolled in the
program without consent and then told they would have to pay a penalty fee to cancel the contract.


Sunday 2/16 …


Officers were dispatched to a suspicious situation regarding a man, dressed dark clothing including a
facemask, walking in the roadway. Officers checked on the man and found nothing criminal in nature.
Officers were dispatched to a property damage accident on E. Church Ave and Roth St. No injuries were
reported and the bumper to bumper contact resulted in minor damage to the vehicles. A citation was issued
to the 17-year-old male driver for failing to stop in an assured clear distance.


Officers responded to a car/deer accident on N. Chestnut St. Upon the Officers arrival to the scene the deer
ran off. No injuries and only minor damage reported.


Monday 2/17 …


A 23-year-old male was issued a citation which listed a warning for loud stereo, a misdemeanor charge for
No vehicle Insurance, and a civil infraction regarding improper plate. The male was found to be violating
his probation, by breaking the law. His vehicle was impounded as he was transported to the Osceola County
Jail and lodged.


Officers received a report of possible non-consensual sex between two minors. The matter is under
investigation.


Officers were dispatched to a possible domestic assault in progress. Upon arrival the vehicle and people in
question had departed. Officers located a vehicle possibly matching the description nearby but the occupants
of the residence refused to answer the door.


Tuesday 2/18 …


Officers received a complaint regarding a parked vehicle that was blocking an alley obstructing the plow
trucks trying to plow down it. The registered owner did not have a local address and the vehicle appeared to
have been parked there overnight. Unable to contact the owner, a city parking citation was issued and the
vehicle listed as abandoned and towed.


Officers were dispatched to a report of a possible criminal sexual conduct involving a minor. The
investigation resulted in a 21-year-old male being arrested on 2 counts of providing sexually explicit material
to a minor and 2 counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He was transported to the Osceola
County Jail and lodged without incident.

 

Wednesday 2/19 …


Officers were dispatched to assist EMS on scene and investigate a death. At this time it appears to be due to
natural causes. No foul play is suspected.

 

Officers arrested a 54-year-old female on felony warrant out of Osceola County for harboring a felon. She
was transported to and lodged in the Osceola County Jail without incident.


Thursday 2/20…


Officers were requested to pick up a 32-year-old male, who was lodged in the Mecosta County Jail, and
transport him to the 77 th District Court in Reed City for a hearing. Once the hearing was done the man was
transported back to the Mecosta County Jail where he was lodged without incident.


Due to Osceola County Deputies on other calls, the RCPD was requested to check out a suspicious situation.
The caller reported seeing a male hanging out in the area of 7 Mile and 220 th Avenue for an extended period
of time. The responding Officers searched over a wide area without locating the suspicious male subject.


Friday 2/21 …


Officers were dispatched to a vehicle sitting at an intersection running with no one inside. The vehicle was
found to have suffered transmission failure and the owner had left to get to a phone and call a tow truck.
Officers stood by for traffic safety while the vehicle was loaded and hauled away.


Officers received a report of a man offering to sell marijuana to a group of teenage juveniles. The matter is
under investigation.


Officers took a call of a parked vehicle being backed into. It is unknown if the person who struck the parked
vehicle was aware. The matter is under investigation.


Officers arrested a 39-year-old male on charges of malicious destruction of property felony, and disorderly
conduct. He was angry due to a recent break up. He was transported and lodged in the Osceola County Jail
without incident.


Saturday 2/22 …


Officers received information of a 35-year-old male who was lodged in a neighboring county and held a
criminal bench warrant of failure to appear to his pretrial out of the 77 th District Court. Officers took custody
of the individual and transported him to the Osceola County Jail where he was lodged without incident.


Officers were dispatched to home of a juvenile runaway. The juvenile’s parents explained that the juvenile
had just been disciplined and became upset and left on foot. Officers attempts to locate the runaway were
unsuccessful. He later returned home on his own.

 

Officers were requested to perform a civil standby as a woman retrieved her items in the home after a
breakup. The women entered the home finding no one there, gathered her items and left to stay with a friend
without incident.

Big Rapids Polar Plunge to take place Saturday

Be bold. Get Cold. Be a part of the fun at Elks Lodge 974 on Saturday, February 29 as Special Olympics Michigan partners with the City of Big Rapids and Elks Lodge 974 for the 2020 Big Rapids Polar Plunge.

 

You can register online at give.classy.org/br20! Sign up early to reserve your spot

today.

 

Plunge by yourself or form a team and fund raise $75 per person to earn a 2020

Polar Plunge long sleeve T-shirt: the ultimate badge of courage, proudly worn by

Plungers everywhere. Go above and beyond the $75 threshold to earn more cool

prizes! All money raised helps provide free sports training, competition, health

screenings and inclusive programs for nearly 23,000 children and adults with

intellectual disabilities in Michigan.

 

On the day of the plunge in Big Rapids, registration begins at 10:30 a.m. The

plunge begins at 12 p.m. where participants will brave the cold and plunge into a

pool at Elks Lodge 974 . Awards will begin immediately following the last plunger.

The annual Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Polar Plunge is the

largest fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI), raising more than $1

million dollars each year.

 

30 Polar Plunges are scheduled to take place across Michigan this winter. A

complete list of plunges can be found at PlungeMI.com.

 

Suspect arraigned for stabbing incident at Mt. Pleasant bar

A Central Michigan University student has been charged with three counts of attempted murder as a result of a stabbing at a bar.

 

Police say 19-year old Octayvious Sanchez-Lewis of Farmington Hills remains in the Isabella County jail on $850,000 bond.

 

Investigators accuse Sanchez-Lewis of stabbing three people late Saturday night at the Wayside Central bar.

 

At least one of the victims remains hospitalized in stable condition.

 

Police have not been able to find a clear motive for the stabbing, but at least one victim knew Sanchez-Lewis.

SOS to offer self service kiosk's at Meijer stores

The Secretary of State is adding more self-service machines at stores in Michigan.

 

The stations that are now in 28 Meijer stores allow drivers to renew their vehicle plate and registration.

 

The kiosks can print auto and motorcycle tabs.

 

Boat tabs are mailed to customers.

 

It costs just-under four dollars to use.

 

The Secretary of State's office says some 80,000 people took advantage of the kiosks last month.

 

Additional machines at Kroger and Meijer stores across Michigan are expected to go online later this year.

Three people stabbed at Mt. Pleasant bar Saturday night; suspect in custody

Charges could be filed as early as today against a person arrested after a stabbing at a bar near Central Michigan University.

 

Mt. Pleasant Police say three people were injured late Saturday night at Wayside Central Bar.

 

One victim was reportedly treated and released.

 

The conditions of the two other victims haven't been released. Police say after interviewing witnesses and reviewing security video, the suspect was arrested.

 

Officers say the stabbing was an isolated incident.

 

The stabbing prompted the University to put out an alert to students.

Big Rapids Police Blotter: Feb. 20th-23rd

The following incidents are being reported by the Big Rapids Department of Public safety between Feb. 20th-23rd. 


2/20

 

0-269 @ 1:27pm A female was reported missing by her boyfriend.  The female was found to be safe with another male friend out of the area in no harm.  Report will be noted as a suspicious.


 

20-271 @ 5:36pm An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with a stolen dealership license plate. After speaking with the driver, a 23 year old male, it was also found that he was operating with no insurance and the vehicle was unregistered.  He was later released from the scene and charges will be requested. The vehicle was impounded with a hold placed for valid insurance and proper registration.


 

20-272 @ 5:17pm An officer was advised that a female and her dog were attacked by another dog while on a walk on N Warren near Spruce. Contact was made with the other dog owner.  The report will be forwarded to animal control for further.


 

20-273 @ 6:40pm CMH had a pick up order for a female. She was located in the 1200 block of Colburn and went into seizure when she saw officers. She was transported to ER by EMS due to possible medical condition.  ER was informed of mental order.

 

2/21

 

20-274 - SUSPICIOUS-A 38 year old female called dispatch that she was kidnapped by a 54 year old male, and then she said she was not. Mental order on LEIN.

 

20-275 - Warrant arrest of the 54 year old male from above on an outstanding FOC warrant.

 

20-276 - Runaway-A 14 year old female left home to go to friends house. She was located and returned. 

 

20-277 @ 10:23pm Suspicious in the 1300 block of Maple. Caller advised she had found footprints in her yard on Tuesday. Prints came off of Maple and went around back of her house near a fence. Nothing appeared tampered with, and prints did not lead up the her house.

 

20-278 @ 10:33PM Assist with traffic stop / transport Finley/Madison.

 

20-279 @ 11:38PM Possible PPO violation in the 800 block of Country Way.  Caller called advising her husband, who is out on bond for domestic last week had tried contacting her through her mother and mother in law. Both were interviewed and advised he had contacted them, but did not request they contact her on his behalf. 

 

20-280 @ 5:31am 100 block of Division, check well being of a male.  Friend called advising he may be suicidal.  Male was located and was not suicidal, and advised there had been a miscommunication over text messages.  He was left at home with roommates.

 

20-281 @ 12:53am 500 block of Clark.  A male was transported to ER for a voluntary evaluation due to anxiety issues.

 

2/22

 

20-282 – White Pine Trail for subject passed out.  A 28 year old male was found urinating in public and initially refused EMS.

 

20-283 – Civil in the 1100 block of Catherine.  A male called about a verbal argument with a second male.

 

20-284 @ 8:18pm UDAA/Civil-A male wanted to report his vehicle stolen after a disagreement with his cousin, on who was going to pay for the damages done to his vehicle.  

 

20-285 @ 9:41pm Citizen assist in the 600 block of Maple.

 

20-286 @ 10:47pm Civil/MDOP in the 100 block of S Michigan Ave  Business is reporting one of their computer screens were broke by a patron.  A patrol accidentally knocked the screen off the back bar.  No intent to damage the equipment.

 

20-287 @ 12:41am 100 block of S Michigan for MIP and Furnishing Alcohol  

 

20-288 @ 1:29am 300 block of S Michigan Ave.  A 21 year old male was lodged for domestic violence and assault after he assaulted his girlfriend and her brother.  

 

20-289 @ 1:31am 300 block of Morrison Ave.  A female tenant was issued a written noise warning.  She is also probation.  Report will be sent to district court probation.

 

20-290 @ 2:45am OWI State & Perry.  A 22 year old male was arrested for OWI.  

 

2/23

 

Civil Dispute in the 300 block of Morrison.

 

20-293 & 294 @ 10:46pm 1100 block of Fuller for a domestic assault.  Dispatched for a 911 hang up.  A female and male were found to be arguing.  Further investigation led to the male half slapping their son on the cheek.  He was lodged for Child Abuse, Domestic, and interfere with 911 call.

Proposed bill would offer Michigan college students a tax credit on textbooks

Legislation has been introduced to provide Pell Grant-eligible students enrolled in a post-secondary institution a tax credit to help defray the cost of their education.

 

Under current state law, textbooks purchased for use by students in K-12 are exempt from Michigan sales tax.

 

However, that same financial relief is not afforded to students pursuing higher education.

 

The Senate Bill would allow Pell Grant-eligible students pursuing a college degree or career technical education to receive an income tax credit equal to the amount of sales and use taxes they pay on purchased or rented textbooks required for class.

Scam Alert: Scammers posing as state Department of Health workers

Yet another warning about a phone scam.

 

This time people are posing as Department of Health and Human Services employees and asking for confidential information.

 

Making it worse, the practice of "spoofing" is being used, which makes the number appear that it is coming from the Department.

 

Its director wants people to know that the department does not ask for detailed personal information over the phone.

Two injured in two car accident in Rodney

Two people were sent to the hospital for injuries sustained in a two car accident in the village of Rodney Wednesday.

 

It happened on Mckinley Rd. near William St; Mecosta County deputies say a 60-year old woman in a Ford passenger vehicle collided with a Chevrolet passenger vehicle driven by a 39-year old man with a 34- year old female passenger.

 

Both the man and woman in the chevy were taken to Big Rapids Spectrum Health for non-life threatening injuries.

Reed City Police Blotter for 2/9-2/15

Sunday 2/9 …


Officers were dispatched to a verbal domestic in progress during the middle of the night. Both parties
reported it was a verbal argument nothing physical occurred nor was anyone drinking. Officers advised the
go to sleep for the night and if they were to continue to argue and wake up the neighbors, they would be
issued a citation for noise and one would have to leave. Both agreed it was time to get some sleep and they
would talk things out in the morning.


Officers were dispatched to the Reed City Spectrum Health Hospital in regards to a disorderly juvenile. The
staff reported the juvenile had become agitated and caused a disturbance. The staff requested the Officer be
on standby until hospital security could arrive. The juvenile calmed down and the Officer cleared with the
arrival of hospital security.


Officers were dispatched to a local residence regarding a civil matter. Previous tenants had entered a garage
looking for belongings. All were advised of the property procedure if they chose to take further action in
civil court.


Officers were dispatched to an apartment regarding a domestic situation involving several family members
with conflicting versions of what took place. The matter has been turned over to the prosecuting attorney’s
office for review.


Monday 2/10 …


Officers responded to assist Osceola County Sheriff Department regarding a vehicle accident in which a
person was reported to be entrapped. Upon the Officers arrival it was discovered the driver was not trapped
just in needed of assistance with getting out of the vehicle. Information regarding the accident was gathered
and passed onto the Osceola County Sheriff Department for further investigation.


Officers received a complaint regarding someone plowing snow into the complainant’s unused driveway.
The woman provided pictures showing a 5-foot pile of snow along her driveway. It is believed the snow
removal contract for the property next door is at fault. Contact was made and they were advised to remove
the snow pile and not to pile it there in the future.


Officers were dispatched to an extended care facility in reference to a possible larceny. The matter is under
careful investigation pending evidence that the property was actually there and not attributed to the
individual’s dementia.


Officers received information of a 23-year-old male who was and absconder from felony probation and
lodged in another County. He held several warrants out of Osceola County. Officers picked up the man and
transported him to Osceola County Jail where he was lodged without incident.


Tuesday 2/11 …


Officers responded to a two-car personal property damage accident. Minor damage reported with no
injuries.

 

Officers observed two young men riding their scooters on the paved area of the Depot Building. It is clearly
posted that they are not to be riding there. One of the two had already been warned before not, to be riding at
the Depot. The Officer served both young men No Trespass notices for the property.


Wednesday 2/12 …


Officers responded to a complaint of vandalism, in which graffiti was found on two back yard fences. The
matter is under investigation.


Officers were dispatched to an apartment complex regarding a complaint of a male and female yelling at
each other. Officers arrived and gathered information regarding the situation since no one in the apartment
would answer the door. It was reported by neighbors that the woman had been the victim of a domestic
assault. Fearing for her safety and well-being officers were able to gain entry. Officers spoke to the woman
from the door way. The woman confirmed she was ok and refused to discuss the matter. Seeing no serious
injury in need of medical attention or any immediate threat officers cleared. The matter along with witness
statements had been turned over to the prosecuting attorney for review.


Thursday 2/13 …


Officers were dispatch to a 2-vehicle personal property damage accident on south Chestnut St. near Church
Avenue. No injuries were reported with minor damage to the vehicles. A citation was issued for traveling
too fast for conditions.


Officers are investigating an incident regarding one juvenile allowing another to spray him with pepper spray
for money. The matter is under investigation and will be sent to the prosecutor for review.


Reed City Police Officers along with Osceola County Deputies responded to an open 911 call. Dispatch
reported they could hear a child crying and a female yelling in the background. Upon the Officers arrival the
child’s mother came on the door and advised the child had been playing with the phone.


Officers were dispatched to a local business in regards to suspicious object that had been discarded in the
bathroom garbage. The device was found to be of the nature that someone would use to falsify a drug screen
test by using someone else’s urine. Probation offices were contacted and it is believed to have been narrowed
down to one probationer. The individual was scheduled to be retested.


Friday 2/14 …


Officers were stopped at an intersection by a man demanding the surveillance video from a business. The
man wanted to know how he could go about getting a copy of the video in hopes it would show who had
damaged his vehicle. The Officer advised him to meet back at the police department and he could report the
crime to begin the investigation. The man never showed up to make the report.


Officers were dispatched to investigate the scene and assist EMS who had responded to a call regarding a
female that had fallen as she exited her vehicle causing a head injury. The Officer found the injured woman
was a passenger and she exited the vehicle on her volition while it still in motion. Alcohol was believed to
be a factor.


Saturday 2/15 …


Officers received a civil complaint regarding a woman who was concerned her ex-husband was receiving her
private medical information. She reported he had sent messages threatening to share this information with
other people.

 

Osceola County Sheriff’s Deputies were busy on other calls and requested dispatch contact RCPD to respond
to a vehicle check on the highway. The driver explained the truck broke down and someone was in route to
assist him with getting the vehicle off the road and into town to be repaired. The Officer stayed and provided
lights and traffic control until help arrived and the vehicle was removed.

Big Rapids Police Blotter for 2/14-2/16

2/14

 

20-240-Hit and run from the alley to the north of FD.  BOL Red 4dr Escape with drivers side front end damage.  

 

2/15

 

40-246 - CWB/PV - Check well being on 26 year old female due to her calling in sick and screaming at them over the phone.  She is on probation for OWI and was highly intox upon arrival.  She was lodged for PV. 

 

40-247 - Disorderly - Assault in the 600 block of S Third.  Initial contact showed no injuries and both parties were separated.  A few minutes later, a 51 year old male, the suspect, assaults the 36 year old male again.  The 51 year old was located and lodged for assault and a warrant.   

 

20-248 @ 7:37PM Parkview-A 56 year old male was arrested for assaulting a 19 year old male.

 

20-249 @ 6:18pm 1800 block of Milton.  Harassment between e boyfriend and girlfriend.

 

20-250 @ 7:09pm MDOP to sculpture along Riverwalk in the 500 block of N Warren.

 

20-251 @ 7:09pm  MIP/Furnishing in the 100 block of S Michigan.  

 

2/16

 

20-252 – 100 block of Woodward Ave.  Civil.  During the course the male half was found to have a child support warrant.  The 34 year old male was arrested.

 

20-254 @ 6:28pm 1300 block of Catherine for a civil dispute.

 

20-255 @ 12:10am Traffic Stop 600 blk of N State.  Located vehicle parked in the 600 block of N State.  Six Traverse City High School kids went for a drive and chose to turn around in Big Rapids.  

Big Rapids Police arrest Baldwin man accused of trailer theft from October

 

Big Rapids Police have made an arrest in connection to the theft of a stolen trailer back in October at Little Caesars.

 

Detective Brian Miller says 42-year old Manulal Gualbchmad Ghandi of Baldwin has been charged with felony larceny.

 

Investigators say they were able to identify Ghandi from security footage.

 

He is currently in jail on a $2,000 bond.

 

Miller says the 2018 Qualitec silver 6x12 trailer with LED lights has still not been recovered. 

Michigan State Police investigating fatal car accident that killed Stanwood man and horse

Troopers from the Michigan State Police Mount Pleasant Post are investigating a car accident that killed a Stanwood man and a horse. 

 

It happened Sunday morning around  9:30am, MSP says a trooper was assisting an 85-year-old Stanwood man with getting a horse back to the man’s residence on 8 Mile Rd east of 170th Ave within Mecosta County’s Austin Twp.

 

As the trooper was in the process of assisting the citizen in getting his horse back home, preliminary investigation shows that passenger car, driven by a 43-year-old Mt. Pleasant woman traveling west on 8 Mile Rd. lost control of her vehicle, crossed the centerline, and struck the man and his horse on the side of eastbound 8 Mile Rd. After striking the man and horse, the vehicle then struck the patrol vehicle occupied by the trooper. 

 

As a result of the crash, the Stanwood man and his horse received fatal injuries.

 

The trooper was medically treated and released for injuries he sustained in this crash.

 

The Mt. Pleasant woman was not injured in the crash, which remains under investigation.

 

The deceased was identified as 85-year-old Robert Johnston of Stanwood.

Deputy Jared Christensen has a lot of goals; if elected new Mecosta Co. Sheriff

 

When Sheriff Todd Purcell announced he would not be running for re-election in 2020, Deputy Jared Christensen was the first to announce his intentions for the top law enforcement seat in Mecosta County.

 

I think that this position chose me. I had a lot of my peers and coworkers come to me over the last few years and wanted me to take on more of a leadership role as far as running for sheriff and after I had a good amount of people coming to me and talking to me about it, I ultimately made the decision to run for sheriff.” Christensen said.

 

Christensen believes his experience is a strength and will help him, if elected.

 

I began my career in Lakeview, Michigan as a village police officer and worked for several small departments including Stanton, Barryton and currently the Morley police chief for the last five years. I’m also a road patrol deputy with the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office for the last 13 years.” Christensen said.

 

If elected Sheriff, Christensen has a lot of goals he'd like to accomplish during his tenure.

 

I’d like to add another school liaison officer to help out our current officer and help impact more kids at the schools in our area. I would like to have a community program that focuses limiting scams that target our area and start to educate our older residents about these types of things.”

 

Another big goal I have would be to better tackle the opioid/methamphetamine addiction problem in our community. We need to better communicate with our residents as officers because residents are our eyes and ears during this drug problem.” Christensen added.

 

Detective Brian Miller with the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety and James Taylor, Undersheriff with the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office are also on the ballot.

 

Candidates have until April 21st to file.

Attorney General Nessel warns consumers of deceptive "Bank Fraud" alerts

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning Michigan residents to watch out for fraudulent bank alerts following an uptick in increasingly sophisticated scams. 

 

The deceitful scam usually starts with a phone text – coming from their bank – alerting the receiver to what appears to be the fraudulent use of a his or her debit card. The alert appears to be real; for example: 

 

FREE TEXT from Fifth Third Bank #2579 To continue using your card, please verify this transaction: 02/05 – Gucci Merchant $1632.00.  Press Y for Yes or N for No.”

 

The text or email alert is then followed by a phone call – which appears to be coming from the bank’s 1-800 customer service number. When quizzed about whether the call is real, the caller even says: “Check on the back of your card and you will see that I am calling from the customer service number listed there.” That, in fact, is true because they have “spoofed” the customer service number, making it appear as if that is the number from which they are calling.

 

The caller is very professional, commits to ensuring the fraudulent charges are dropped, then begins to ask questions that eventually lead to an attempt to confirm the cardholder’s PIN number.

In another instance, the text message is a “ChaseBank notice” warning that “your debit card is temporary locked” (misspelling temporarily), with instruction to call a stated number “for support.”

 

Do NOT fall for these scams,” said Nessel. “These criminals are increasingly clever and conniving and have found yet another way to cheat honest Michigan residents out of their hard-earned money.”

Nessel urges every Michigan resident who gets an email, text or call that is supposedly from their bank to hang up and call the customer service number on the back of their debit card.  That is the only way to ensure the caller is who they claim to be.

 

In at least some cases, email fraud alerts are easier to spot because the sender’s email address doesn’t match up with the bank’s address. Most customers, however, do not take the time to verify the sender’s address.

 

The bottom line is this: Don’t give a single piece of personal information – your birth date, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your PIN number – to anyone who calls,” Nessel said. “Hang up and call back on a number you know you can verify.”

 

For more information please read the following Consumer Alerts:

 

Consumers are encouraged to file consumer complaints online with the Michigan Department of Attorney General or call 877-765-8388.

Three people voluntarily quarantined in Kent County after returning from China

Three people are under voluntary quarantine in Kent County after returning to Michigan from China.

 

The Kent County Health Department says a 14 day monitoring period is underway for the three.

 

The Centers for Disease Control believes they're medium risk because they were in China's mainland, meaning they were in the country of China, outside of the airport.

 

The Kent County Health Department says there are no signs so far that these people have the coronavirus.

Honda minivan recall due to fire incidents

If you own a Honda minivan, you could see a recall notice soon.

 

Honda is recalling 241,000 Odyssey minivans between the 2018 and 2020 model years in the U.S. to fix a wiring problem that could cause a fire.

 

The company says there have been three reports of fires - but, no injuries.

 

Honda says owners will be notified of the recall by mail in mid-March.

 

Dealers will fix or replace the wiring free of charge.

Reed City Police Blotter for 2/2-2/8

Sunday 2/2 …
While on patrol, Officers found an open bay door on a local business building. No tracks were found in or
out, the Officer searched the building and found nothing out of the norm. The door closed and building
secured. Dispatch made contact with the company and informed them of the situation.


Officers received a complaint of larceny from a home. The matter is under investigation.


Monday 2/3 …


Officers were dispatched to retail store where a woman reported she flagged down a stranger and offered to pay the female driver to take her to the store and then drive her to Big Rapids. She reported, she gave the woman the money and went into the store leaving her phone in the car. When she came out of the store the driver was gone, with her phone.


Officers were dispatched to a local apartment complex regarding a Breaking and Entering complaint. The
tenant showed the responding Officer the damage to her door and locks and reported they were not damaged when she left that morning. She reported she arrived home to find the door unlocked and slightly opened. She stated nothing was found to be missing or out of place. She added that neighbor assisted her with searching the apartment to be sure no one was there. The matter is under investigation


Officers were dispatched to a suspicious situation. The caller reported a man driving around the parking lot
of an apartment complex and appeared to be looking into parked vehicles. The responding Officer meet up with the individual in question, who explained he was meeting someone there and was looking for that
person.


Tuesday 2/4 …


Officers were informed of the possible location of a man, who held several warrants out of 3 counties. While at the door of the suspected location the female tenant denied the man being there and denied Officers entry to look for him. A MSP Trooper who was assisting the RCPD observed a male running out the back door.


A Reed City Police Officer and MSP pursued the individual into the woods and swamp. The man gave up
and was identified as the 35 male they were looking for. The Officer then placed him under arrest and
transported him to the Osceola County Jail where additional charges of possession of an opioid and resisting arrest were added to his list of charges. Officers submitted a warrant request to the Prosecuting Attorney’s office regarding the 27-year-old female for harboring a fugitive.


Officers took a report from an elderly woman who believed she had been the victim of a scam. The woman
had been contact over the phone and had verified who she was and given the last 4 digits of her social
security number. When the person on the phone requested the full social security number and other
information it alerted the woman who hung up the phone. Officers advised if any fraudulent activity was
observed to notify them.


Officers were dispatched to a dispute between neighbors regarding a noise issue. The Officer spoke with
both parties and advised them to avoid all contact with each other and to call the landlord or the police if
there continues to be a noise problem.

 

Officers were dispatched to local residence and requested to perform a wellbeing check. The man stated the female he was concerned about had not been answering his calls. He added that she had recently had the flu. The Officers went to the address provide and spoke with the female’s father who reported he had just seen her a few hours ago and appeared to be fine. The caller was advised she was okay.


Officers were requested to investigate a 9 year old who had assaulted a pregnant individual by attempting to kick her stomach. The matter will be turned over to probate court for review.
Officers received a report of a young adult who was possibly carrying a firearm around in his backpack. His probation officer was advised and requested officers accompany him to make contact with the young man while he searched his backpack and room. No firearm was located, however a cell phone was. It was stated he had found the phone. The phone was returned to its owner.


Wednesday 2/5 …


Officers were dispatched to take an assault complaint between an ex and a new girlfriend over custody of
children. The matter has been turned over to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.


Officers were dispatched to local residence regarding a report of man keeping a girl against her will. The
caller was under the influence of alcohol and possibly other substances. The Officer went to the residence in question and was allowed to look around. No girl was found held there against her will. The matter was
unfounded, case closed.


Thursday 2/6 …


Officers were dispatched to a juvenile runaway. The responding Officer followed the juveniles tracks to a
nearby friend’s house. The juvenile was indeed there and after speaking with the officer returned home and went to bed without incident.


Friday 2/7 …


Officers responded to a two-vehicle personal property damage accident. Minor damage to one vehicle and
the other one had significant damage and was towed. No injuries were reported.

 

Officers were dispatched to respond to an open 911 call. Dispatched advised they could hear a female voice yelling at someone to get out. The Officers spoke with the female caller who reported there was a man in the residence who needed to leave. The woman reported there was no physical contact between her and the man she had been yelling at. She had allowed him to stay because he no other place to go. The man was found to have a warrant out of Kent County for failure to appear in court regarding a probation violation. His girlfriend was no where in the residence, and he was placed under arrest on the Kent County warrant.


Saturday 2/8 …


Officers received a complaint of a male who vomited and believed to be passed out inside the Depot
building. Upon arrival the man was alert and spoke with officers. The man had been drinking. Officers found an empty can and he was given a warning not to be drinking in public. The man was warned not to return and was sober enough to be released and be on his way.


Officers responded to a loud noise complaint regarding a loud muffler. The vehicle was gone when the
Officer arrived. The officer spoke with a family member who explained her daughter had left her vehicle
running for a few minutes and didn’t feel it was too loud.

Big Rapids Police Blotter for 2/7-2/10

The following incidents are being reported by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety from Feb.7th-10th. 

 

2/7

 

20-208/214-Walk in assault.  Female claimed she was assaulted by her step sister at her mom's house in the 200 block of Rust.  Later, step sister and her boyfriend filed assault charges on her.  

 

20-209-100 block of Sanborn.  Female reporting she was assaulted by her boyfriend and she broke a nail.  Under investigation.

 

20-210-1100 block of Fuller. Civil custody dispute over a cat.  

 

20-211-200 block of N Michigan.  Female complaining that her ex was bugging her.  

 

2/8

 

20-216 – Assault in the 500 block of S Michigan.  Male reported that girlfriend/ex-girlfriend(?) had sprayed mace or pepper spray in his face while they were arguing. The argument is over him hanging out with another female. 

 

 

20-217  @  7:26PM- AREA CHECK for intox male walking north  the middle of State St.  A 29 year old male was extremely intoxicated.  He was given ride home.

 

20-218  @  8:20PM-  Continuing investigation of people from 20-216.

 

2/9

 

20-219  @  2:30AM-  Domestic Violence/ Agg Assault-A 22 year old male beat and choked his girlfriend, 20 years old, in the 300 block of N. Warren.  The male fled on foot into Hemlock park.  He was booked for agg assault strangulation DV and the 2 warrants.

 

2/10 

 

20-221 – Retail Fraud in the 800 block of N State.  Juvenile suspect was turned over to parents and case will be sent to probate court.

 

20-222 – Civil issues /arguments in the 1100 block of Platt Ave between husband and wife.

 

20-223/20-224  @  7:30pm- Civil dispute in the 400 block of Rose.  A 15 yr old boy used his mother's credit card for video games, then was offended when he got grounded.  After mouthing off to mom and attempting to crawl out the window, stepdad stopped him.  A struggle ensued. The boy's father came down from Reed City to take him home with him.  The father had an MSP contempt warrant out of Reed City for failing to pay fines on a driving while license is suspended, and was lodged at the MCSO.

Brian Miller hopes to become Mecosta County's next Sheriff

 

Big Rapids Detective Brian Miller has thrown his name into the race to be the next Mecosta County Sheriff.

 

Current Sheriff Todd Purcell decided not to run for re-election in 2020.

 

Miller who has been in the living in Mecosta County and working in law enforcement since 1996 says he believes it's the right time for this challenge.

 

If given the opportunity, I intend to surround myself with exceptional people who take pride in their work and with that the great foundation that is already there I think that we can provide a service to the citizens of Mecosta County that will make them feel secure with us with their property in their own well-being.“ Miller said.

 

I truly believe that I can make a difference. This area is a place that I want to raise my kids. I’d like to raise my children in the safest community I can, not only for them but for the many other families in this community.” Miller added.

 

If elected, Miller also wants to expand on making communication better between law enforcement and the public.

 

That’s something I’ve always taken lot of pride in, is being having an open line of communication with the general public and law enforcement agency’s in the outlying area.”

 

I think the better you’re able to communicate with those that you’re serving, the better everyone is for that. There’s more respect back and forth and I think that it’s important so I intend on being involved.” Miller said.

 

Also running for Sheriff is Deputy Jared Christensen.

 

The filing deadline for candidates is April 21st.

Fatal Accident on M-115 in Osceola Co.

A 33-year old Harrison woman is dead following a three vehicle accident in Osceola County Thursday.

 

Sheriff Ed Williams says deputies  were dispatched to a three vehicle accident on M115 near 80th Ave. in Highland Township. 

 

A Harrison woman was driving a Chevrolet S-10 pickup and sustained fatal injuries after colliding with a semi tractor trailer, and a passenger car. 

 

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Witnesses stated that the 33-year old female driver was traveling westbound on M-115 when the vehicle she was operating crossed the centerline and collided head on with an eastbound semi. 

 

The semi driver was not injured and a third vehicle was struck by the woman’s pickup. 

 

The driver and passenger of the third vehicle were not injured in the crash. 

 

A Mecosta County Ambulance had just completed a patient transfer to Munson Hospital and was the first to arrive on the scene.

 

Weather is believed to be a factor, and the incident is still under investigation.  M-115 was shut down for approximately 5 hours for the accident investigation, fuel spill and scene clean up.

 

Sheriff Williams and the Osceola County road patrol would like to remind drivers to slowdown and drive with caution whenever adverse weather conditions exist.

Big Rapids Police Blotter for 2/5-2/6

2/5

 

20-186 - Assist CPS in the 100 block of Second Ave. Multiple attempts for contact at residence with no answer at door. 

 

20-187 - Suicidal subject in the 1300 block of Colburn, person not suicidal, upset that he can not travel to the Philippines to to meet an online girlfriend.

 

20-188 - Civil in the 1000 block of Perry.  A 35 year old male smoked in room and put out cigarettes on the bed and carpet

 

20-189 - Traffic Stop in the 700 block of S State led to a 41 year old male being cited for no license and improper plate. 

 

20-190 @ 11:51pm Traffic stop State/Sanborn. Driver, a 23 year old male, was arrested  for OWI 2nd high BAC.  

 

20-192 @ 3:24am Traffic stop State/Pine . Driver, a 25 year old female, was arrested for OWI.  

 

20-193 @ 5:25am Larceny in the 800 block of Country Way. Caller advised his friend had stolen money from him the previous evening.  Under investigation.

 

2/6

 

20-194-Traffic stop on Fuller and Green led to a female being cited for no insurance.  

 

20-199-Male passed out on sidewalk in front of the department.  The 40 year old male under the influence and was transported by EMS.

 

20-201-500 block of S State, while there arresting a 23 year old male on his original domestic warrant  His his brother, a 21 year old male, was present.  He just got out of jail on Tuesday for domestic on his brother, and was in violation of the bond release.  Arrested.  

 

20-203 @ 11:36pm Officers were dispatched to a possible domestic in the 500 block of N. Michigan. Found to be verbal argument between roommates.  One male, was unresponsive upon arrival and was transported by EMS to ER for treatment due to intoxication. Landlord arrived while we were on scene and served eviction papers to the male actually on the lease.

 

20-204 @ 12:27am MIP in the 100 block of S Michigan.  A 19 year old male was cited for MIP 2nd.

 

20-206 @ 1:29am  Traffic stop State/Spring led to arrest of a 21 year old male for OWI.

 

20-207 @ 3:11am Suspicious in the 300 block of S. Stewart. Caller advised he thought he heard someone trying to get into his apartment. Area checked unable to locate anyone in the area.

Semi Truck driver suffers medical incident; involved in one vehicle accident

Mecosta County Sheriff Deputies believe a Howard City man suffered a medial incident which caused a one vehicle accident Wednesday in Mecosta Township.

 

It happened on 8 Mile Rd (M-20) near 230th Ave. Police say the 67-year old semi truck driver was traveling eastbound on 8 Mile Rd when he suffered a medical emergency.

 

The semi crossed the center line and left the roadway to the north side of the roadway, struck a utility pole and then went down into the ditch and into a swamp.

 

The Howard City man was taken to Spectrum Big Rapids Hospital for treatment.

Michigan community college students can now more easily transfer to 4-year institutions

Michigan's 28 community colleges have signed four historic transfer agreements with 25 four-year colleges and universities in Michigan, the Michigan Community College Association.

 

The agreements will allow community college students to transfer more credits to 25 universities in Michigan in four academic programs including biology, business, criminal justice, and psychology.

 

The new agreements specify major-specific courses that students should complete while enrolled in community college that are common across all institutions in Michigan.

 

A study conducted by the National Student Clearinghouse found that 52 percent of bachelor’s degree earners in Michigan previously enrolled at a community college, which is higher than the national average of 49 percent.

Big Rapids Police Blotter for 1/30-2/4

The following incidents were reported by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety from Jan 30th thru Feb 4th. 

 

1/30

 

20-143-Suspicious @ Swede Hill Park.  Nothing suspicious located.  

 

20-144-Warrant arrest of a 50 year old male in the 500 block of Woodward for child support warrants, Kent County.

 

20-145-100 block of Woodward.  Domestic between mom and daughter.  The daughter packed and left and case will be sent over for review.

 

1/31

 

20-151-700 block of Fuller for a larceny investigation.

 

20-152-Harassment taken at 40.

 

20-154 @ 11:39pm Officers were dispatched to a fight in progress in the 1000 block of Perry. Upon arrival fight was over and everyone involved was leaving. Contact made with one group involved who were then trespassed from the event.

 

20-155 @ 2:05am Noise in the 700 block of Ives.   Most of the noise was not from the house but from people coming and going to the event. Resident began kicking people out and turning new arrivals away.

 

20-156 @ 8:30pm Check well being in the 1100 block of Fuller.  Caller advised he had heard from a friend that his ex wife was allowing a minor to drink alcohol in her apartment. Apartment appeared empty upon arrival and the female's vehicle was not in the parking lot.

 

2/1

 

20-157 Suspicious at Parkview. 

 

20-158 Defrauding an innkeeper in the 900 block of Maple. Three females walked out on a $29 bar tab for food and drinks. Happened at 1:15am. Under investigation. 

 

2/2

 

20-161- Check Wellbeing in the 400 block of Maple for a female who was yelling and throwing things around her apartment. She complained about $40 that had been stolen but didn't want to file a report. 

 

2/3

 

20-163: Motorist assist Perry/Ferris turned No Insurance.  A 48 year old male was cited for allowing someone to operate a vehicle without insurance.  He was able to get insurance.

 

20-164: Found Cell Phone on Damascus. Mother of young lady who phone belongs to contacted.

 

20-165: Assist in the 500 block of S State. Female walked in and told staff to call 911 but did not say why.  She turned out to be having a diabetic issue due to caffeine consumption. Stood by while EMS looked at her.

 

20-166: Suspicious in the 700 block of Maple.  Male became upset with staff after he used another person's debit card and it got stuck in the ATM. Staff helped him retrieve it but could not give it back to him because the name on the card was not his. 

 

20-167: Walk in suspicious.  Male woke up from a nap to a message stating his phone number was being transferred to a different carrier. He contacted Verizon who advised the number had already been moved. No suspect information.

 

20-169 @ 10:55pm State/Pine Traffic stop resulted in a female being cited for No Insurance.  

 

20-170, 171, 172 @ 11:35pm 1700 block of S State for a Domestic, Probation Violation, Disrupt 911 call and OWI 3rd. Officers received a BOL for a possible OWI, then dispatched for a possible domestic.  Female was in the lobby refusing to speak to dispatch as she only wanted a different room. A 48 year old female states she was assaulted by her husband, a 38 year old male, from Ludington/Benzie County area.  The clerk saw the female driving the van, pull in and park out front when she came in.  The male wouldn't open the door.  The female claims the male was assaulting her, but when she attempted to call 911.  The female was arrested for OWI 3RD.

 

2/4

 

20-173: Disorderly in the 600 block of Oak.  

 

20-175: B&E on Industrial.  Female walked in at 6:29pm on 2/3/2020 and tampered with several items, stole $4 and left. Under Investigation.

 

20-177: Assist Medical/Tampering.  Officers were called for female who was trying to get into apartments and did get into a car and was acting strange. Believed to be on multiple drugs. 

 

20-178:A 25 year old male was  arrested on warrants for failure to appear in the 1100 block of Catherine.

 

20-179:A 30 year old female was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear in the 300 block of S Stewart.

 

20-181: Civil dispute in the 1100 block of Catherine. 

Reed City Police Blotter: Jan.27th- 31st

The following incidents were reported by the Reed City Police Dept. from 1/27-1/31. 

 

Monday 1/27 …


Officers took a report of a stolen license plate. The individual stated the temporary paper license plate had
been stolen from their vehicle. The matter is under investigation.


Officers were requested to perform a transport of a Reed City resident who had tendencies to become
combative. The person was in need of mental treatment and transported to a treatment facility without
incident.

 

Tuesday 1/28…


Officers traveled to a nearby state to pick up a 21 year old male a three count warrant for Larceny of an
Automobile, Unlawful use of an Automobile, and Malicious Destruction of Property. This stems from a
2015 incident where a vehicle was stolen and damaged heavily in a wooded area where it was located. The individual held warrants out of a neighboring county for a similar incident.


Wednesday 1/29 …


A found wallet was brought into the Reed City Police Department. Contact was made with the owner who
arrived at the department and collected the wallet.


An Officer was given a found plastic baggie containing an unidentified pill. The pill was field tested and
found to be an over the counter NSAID.

 

Friday 1/31 …


Officers were requested to stand by for a vehicle failing to stop in Lake County headed toward Reed City.
The vehicle eventually pulled over for deputies prior to entering Osceola County and officers were not
needed.


Officers were requested to assist a State investigator in a benefits fraud investigation. Video and information
was obtained and forwarded to the investigator.


Officers were dispatched to perform a warrant pick up at the Allegan County Jail. The 33-year-old male helda bench warrant Failure to Appear in court. The warrant stemmed from a grass ordinance violation.


Officers were dispatched to Reed City Hospital regarding a patient who called 911 from their hospital bed.
The patient reported being held against her will. The responding Officer arrived and found the hospital staff was about to call for assistance with that patient. The Officer along with hospital security assisted the staff with the combative patient. She was being treated for mental health reasons.

Hersey man sent to hospital following one vehicle accident

A Hersey man suffered life threatening injuries last night following a one car accident in Mecosta County.

 

It happened just after 11pm at the intersection of 23 Mile/180th Ave, Grant Twp, Mecosta Co. 

 

The driver, a 59-year old man was taken to Reed City Spectrum Health and later transported to Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids for life threatening injuries. 

 

Incident is still under investigation.  

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Weather

Local High School Schedule & Scores

CSAA Basketball (Boys)

3/1/24

 District 35 Championship @Manistee

  Ludington @ Reed City - 7:00pm

    -> Game broadcasting on Big Country 100.9

2/28/24

 District 35 Tournament @Manistee

  Hart 42 @ Reed City 57

    -> Game broadcasting on Big Country 100.9

  Manistee 38 @ Ludington 67

 District 36 Tournament @Gladwin

  Chip Hills 38 @ Clare 50

 District 41 Tournament @Fremont

  Newaygo 61 @ Grant 57

 District 74 Tournament @Hesperia

  Ravenna 50 @ White Cloud 53

 

CSAA Basketball (Girls)

2/26/24 - 7:00pm

Tri County @ Montabella

2/27/24 - 7:00pm

 CSAA Tournament

  Grant @ Kent City

  Reed City @ Morley Stanwood

  Chip Hills @ White Cloud

2/29/24 - 7:00pm

Tri County @ White Cloud

 

Big Rapids Ice Hockey (12-12-1)

MHSAA Regional 21: 2/24/24

Big Rapids#4 4 @ E Grand Rapids#1 5 (OT)

CSAA Basketball Standings

CSAA - Boys

  1. Reed City 18-3 (10-0)
  2. White Cloud 16-5 (8-2)
  3. Big Rapids   15-6 (8-2)
  4. Grant   13-6 (8-2)
  5. Newaygo 13-8 (6-4)
  6. Central Montcalm 8-12 (4-6)
  7. Kent City 7-14 (4-6)
  8. Tri County 6-15 (3-7)
  9. Chip Hills 5-16 (3-7)
  10. Morley Stanwood 2-17 (1-9)
  11. Lakeview 5-16 (0-10)

CSAA - Girls

  1. Morley Stanwood 15-3 (8-1)
  2. Grant 13-4 (8-1)
  3. Kent City 15-4 (7-2)
  4. Reed City 11-8 (7-2)
  5. Big Rapids 10-8 (6-3)
  6. Lakeview 10-9 (4-5)
  7. Central Montcalm 8-11 (4-5)
  8. Newaygo 10-9 (3-6)
  9. White Cloud 7-13 (2-8)
  10. Tri County 3-14 (1-8)
  11. Chip Hills 1-18 (0-9)

This Week's Poll

What place will the Lions finish in the NFC North?