A Taylor County Grand Jury has returned indictments against several individuals. Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

 

Campbellsville Fire Department was called out Friday morning just after 10am to an alarm on old West Main Street, Big Dawg News has learned a dryer caught fire at a residence. Not other details are know about the fire run.

Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Receives Two Kentucky Chamber Executive’s Awards The Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce was awarded top honors in two categories at the annual Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executive Director’s Awards Banquet in Louisville on September 25, 2024. The Chamber won the Excellence Awards in its division for E-Communications (Newsletter) and Innovation (for the new Chamber Minority Owned Business Award). The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) is a partner organization with the Kentucky Chamber that provides local chamber executives opportunities for professional development, organizational excellence, and grassroots advocacy.

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (Sept. 24, 2024) - The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team continues to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on September 16, 2024 at approximately 5:27 p.m. CDT in Russell County. Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that Trooper Jake Smith from Post 15, Columbia, attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the Russell Springs community. Initially, the subject vehicle came to a stop, but during the interaction, the subject vehicle accelerated away from the stop resulting in a vehicle pursuit.

Trooper Smith pursued the vehicle for a short distance until the vehicle stopped behind a residence on Bluebird Drive. The operator of the vehicle, later identified as Joshua George Arnold, a 41-year-old male, immediately exited the vehicle and fired a handgun multiple times in the direction of Trooper Smith. Mr. Arnold then fled on foot and his exact location was unknown.  Multiple officers responded to the scene to assist, including Russell County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) Deputy Joshua Phipps. While officers searched the area for Mr. Arnold, Deputy Phipps entered a camper trailer.  Moments later, officers on scene heard multiple gunshots fired from inside the trailer. Troopers responded to the camper trailer and observed Mr. Arnold and Deputy Phipps had both suffered life-threatening injuries from gunshot wounds. Deputy Phipps and Mr. Arnold were removed from the camper and transported to a local hospital, where both were pronounced deceased.

These preliminary findings are subject to change as CIRT investigators continue this ongoing investigation.

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation, it is KSP’s standard operating procedure not to release specific details until vital witnesses have been interviewed and pertinent facts gathered. Timelines to complete investigations vary based on the complexity of the case.

*Original Release Below*

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (Sept. 17, 2024) - The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team has been requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on September 16, 2024 at approximately 5:27 p.m. CDT in Russell County.

KSP Post 15 and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) were conducting an investigation on Bluebird Drive in the city limits of Russell Springs, which resulted in an officer-involved shooting incident. A male subject was transported to the hospital and has since been pronounced deceased. KSP detectives and CIRT responded and the investigation into incident remains ongoing. 

RCSO Deputy Josh Phipps, a 3-year veteran of the agency, sustained life-threatening injuries during the incident, and has been pronounced deceased.

“Tragic news for our commonwealth as a Russell County deputy was killed in the line of duty last night,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Britainy and I ask all of Kentucky to join us in praying for his family, fellow law enforcement officers and the entire Russell County community.”

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation, it is KSP’s standard operating procedure not to release specific details until vital witnesses have been interviewed and pertinent facts gathered. Timelines to complete investigations vary based on the complexity of the case.

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COLUMBIA, Ky. (September 22, 2024) – The Kentucky State Police (KSP) honored 55 troopers and officers who are dedicated to protecting Kentucky’s 120 counties with a mission of creating a safer commonwealth for future generations during the 2023 Sworn Awards. The awards presented were for heroic acts of service that occurred in 2023. KSP has more than 1,000 sworn personnel wearing the badge of honor, which is the highest number of troopers the agency has employed since 2017.

 

In 2023, KSP responded to 407,493 requests for assistance, conducted thousands of wellness checks during dangerous weather conditions, continued the fight against the deadly drug epidemic, obtained justice for victims, ran into unthinkable dangers, assisted local law enforcement agencies as needed and enhanced public and officer safety throughout the commonwealth.

During the ceremony, KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. commended the agency’s troopers and officers for going above and beyond.

“We recognize the dedication, bravery and extraordinary efforts of our troopers and officers,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. “Whether it was a heroic act in the face of danger, an exceptional investigation that led to justice or a moment of compassion that made a lasting impact, each of you have demonstrated what it means to serve with honor.”

Those honors included two troopers and a detective from the Post 15 area.

• Trooper First Class Jonathan Houk was named the Public Affairs Officer of the Year. He is a 14-year veteran of the agency.
• Detective Zachary Scott was named the Post 15 Detective of the Year. He is a 9-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Daniel Smith was named the Post 15 Trooper of the Year. He is a 3-year veteran of the agency.

“I am incredibly proud of these troopers for their hard work and dedication to keep our communities safe and make them a better place in which to live.  They are a true credit to the Kentucky State Police and Post 15, reflecting the values and commitment that make a positive impact on all of us.” said KSP Post 15 Commander Captain Bradley Stotts.

A complete list of award recipients can be found on the KSP website.

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (Sept. 17, 2024) - The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team has been requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on September 16, 2024 at approximately 5:27 p.m. CDT in Russell County.

KSP Post 15 and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) were conducting an investigation on Bluebird Drive in the city limits of Russell Springs, which resulted in an officer-involved shooting incident. A male subject was transported to the hospital and has since been pronounced deceased. KSP detectives and CIRT responded and the investigation into incident remains ongoing. 

RCSO Deputy Josh Phipps, a 3-year veteran of the agency, sustained life-threatening injuries during the incident, and has been pronounced deceased.

“Tragic news for our commonwealth as a Russell County deputy was killed in the line of duty last night,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Britainy and I ask all of Kentucky to join us in praying for his family, fellow law enforcement officers and the entire Russell County community.”

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation, it is KSP’s standard operating procedure not to release specific details until vital witnesses have been interviewed and pertinent facts gathered. Timelines to complete investigations vary based on the complexity of the case.

 

WASHINGTON - On the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today, Congressman James Comer (R-Ky.) honored the life and legacy of Brenda Allen of Campbellsville, Kentucky. Mrs. Allen served as the Mayor of Campbellsville for three terms, dedicating her life to bettering her community and serving all who called Campbellsville home. Mrs. Allen was a dedicated public servant and her impact in Campbellsville will be remembered for years to come.

 

Chamber 75th Anniversary As part of our 75th Anniversary Celebration, the Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to a Black-Tie Gala sponsored by Taylor Regional Hospital featuring world renowned Master Magician Lance Burton. The 75th Anniversary Gala will be held Saturday November 2nd at Taylor County High School. Dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m. in the Citizens Bank Arena followed by the “Lance Burton & Friends” Show at 8:00 p.m. in the Cook Auditorium. The evening will include additional musical entertainment. Lance Burton is widely considered by his peers to be the one of the greatest stage Magicians of the past century. For three decades Burton was a Las Vegas Headliner, performing over fifteen thousand shows for over fifteen million fans. His new live touring show is a mix of illusions, sleight of hand, audience participation, and amazing guest stars. A Las Vegas show, suitable for the whole family! Tickets for the Chamber 75th Anniversary Black Tie Gala sponsored by Taylor Regional Hospital are $125.00 per person. Tables of eight can be reserved for $1000. Assigned seating for the “Lance Burton & Friends” Show will be in the order in which they are reserved. Reservations are available by emailing info@campbellsvillechamber.com or calling the Chamber Office at 270.465.8601. Businesses and individuals can be invoiced, or credit card purchases can be processed in the Chamber Office. Proceeds from the event benefit the new Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber Foundation.

RESERVE SEATS AND TABLES HERE

LEBANON, Ky. (September. 9, 2024) – Last night, the Lebanon Police Department contacted the Kentucky State Police Post 15 and requested investigative assistance with a threat to the Marion County High School. As a result of an extensive investigation, KSP Troopers have charged a 16-year-old male juvenile with Terroristic Threatening, 1st degree. The juvenile has been arrested and transported to the local juvenile detention center. The case remains under investigation by Trooper Daniel Smith. KSP was assisted by the Lebanon Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.   

Kentucky State Police thoroughly investigates all reported threats of school violence regardless of context or intent.  Troopers ask parents to speak with their children about the dangers of posting threatening messages on social media and reporting any concerning information they may come across online.

Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Greg Gribbins has submitted his notice of retirement which will be effective in November of this year. “I am blessed and honored to have been given the opportunity to contribute to the long history of the Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce and Taylor County Tourist Commission,” said Gribbins. “I would like to thank the current and former Chamber Board members and Tourist Commissioners for their support and direction. Both these organizations are and will remain successful because of your dedication.

I would also like to thank the many businesses and individuals who have supported me, the Chamber and Tourism. You are what makes Taylor County such a great community.

While this is a difficult decision, I feel it is the right one and I look forward to this next chapter. Thank you, Taylor County.” Gribbins was named Executive Director of the Chamber on January 1, 2021, and since that time the organization has experienced significant growth and measurable success in many areas. Ann Dabney, President of the Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors stated, “I along with our entire board would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Greg Gribbins for his outstanding service and leadership as our Executive Director.

Under Greg's guidance, our Chamber has realized exponential growth, reaching new heights in membership, community engagement, and business development. His dedication and vision have significantly strengthened our organization, and we are deeply grateful for the impact he has made.

When we brought Greg on board a little over three years ago, he shared that when the time for his retirement came, his pledge was to leave our Chamber better than when he found it; there is no question he understood the assignment and he has certainly delivered upon that promise.

 

A Taylor County Grand Jury has returned numerous indictments. We remind you that indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

 

 

The next Campbelllsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon will be held Thursday September 12^th, 2024 at the Homeplace on Green River, 5807 New Columbia Road, Campbellsville, KY. The featured speaker will be Hilda Legg, Consultant with Legg Strategies. Legg has a career of over 45 years of Rural Economic Development and job creation and has been appointed to public services by 4 United States Presidents.

The September Luncheon is sponsored by Duo Broadband. Lunch will be catered by McAlister’s Deli and served at 12 noon. Advance tickets by reservation for the Luncheon are $15. Tickets at the door will be $17. RSVP by email: peggy@campbellsvillechamber.com or call the Chamber Office at 270-465-8601.

 

RSVP by 4:00pmET Monday September 9th!  It's important to RSVP in order for the Chamber to get an accurate number for the caterer.