Dunn dispels rumors related to Webster shooting
Rumors abound on social media regarding the shootings at a large party in Webster Township 2 weeks ago including that there were AK47’s, rifles and other assault rifles at the party. Rice County Sheriff Troy Dunn comments that, “we’ve had nobody able to confirm it that’s called us that was at this party or at the shooting. As far as we can confirm it’s been handguns”. He added all the ammunition they’ve recovered from the site has been from handguns. Rice County Investigators continue to work with the BCA, including the release of a sketch and description of a possible suspect in the shooting of the woman. Dunn said they’ve had a few tips since the sketch was released and Investigators are following up on those. He also…
clarified that, “we have at least 2 different kinds of spent ammunition, so we know we have 2 guns. We’ve had people say that there were other people who were displaying handguns but not shooting them”. He confirmed that a Social Network company put the invitation together and partygoers had to RSVP, however in regard to a list of attendees, “we just have to go through some hoops as far as legally obtaining it from them with subpoenas and/or search warrants so we’re working with them and they’ve been cooperative so far”. In a 5 year period the Sheriff’s office reports just 3 calls other than the complaint they had for parking on the road just a few hours before the shooting. Security at the party were not professionals. Dunn says the owner of the property is considering selling it as he’s not lived there for some time.
Schmelzer jury hears testimony today
The jury was seated yesterday in the case of Schmelzer vs The Northfield Chamber of Commerce. Mary Schmelzer is the former Chamber of Commerce Executive Director who was let go from that position in November of 2013. She alleges that her employment with the NCC was terminated in violation of the Human Rights Act which includes protection for whistleblowers. Her attorney Alf Sivertson alleges, “basically she was terminated because she engaged in protected activity by raising concerns to the Board about this Jerry Anderson’s conduct in the workplace. She then was retaliated against and terminated”. In October of 2013, the Board felt that Anderson had done nothing wrong in an incident during the annual meeting but should not be a Board member, in November they terminated Schmelzer’s employment citing her “distrust in the Board”. Sivertson added that she has not found other comparable work in the past 2 years so her damages are wage loss”. He said that would be in excess of $100,000. The complaint was filed October 14th, 2014. A motion for summary judgement was brought forward by the Northfield Chamber and heard in August of last year. Rice County District Judge John Cajacob denied it in November. Testimony is being heard today.
Council holds public hearings, hears resolutions on The Crossing project
The Northfield Council meets tonight. They’ll hold a public hearing on the Woodley Street assessments and also on the reconveyance of a portion of forfeited land at Fargaze Meadows. Among the items on the regular agenda are resolutions related to The Crossings project and approval of the purchase of an aerial truck for NAFRS. Mayor Graham will be in studio at 7:20 tomorrow morning with a recap and new Administrator Ben Martig will be in at 8:45.
Rice County Habitat for Humanity is on the move… from Lonsdale to Northfield and they’re looking for some muscle from 9 to noon on Thursday. They’re also reorganizing with the establishment of 5 committees and invite you to join them. Maybe you’d like to wield a paint roller or provide a meal, they’re looking for volunteers. For more information go to kymn.net. I’ve posted the full release including their joint Chamber After Hours this afternoon with Rebound Enterprises.
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