Judge Thomas Foster has denied a defense motion to exclude videotaped statements that double murder suspect Danny K. Coston made to police last August, including his alleged confession. The motion to exclude the statements was denied Tuesday in a 20-page ruling issued by Judge Foster. Foster also denied a defense motion to exclude evidence gathered during the execution of search warrants on Coston’s residence and John boat. Coston faces multiple first-degree murder charges in the August, 2012 slaying of Jacob Wheeler, 22 of Centerville and Wheeler’s girlfriend, Jessi Evans, 17 of Norris City. Coston remains in the White County jail under $3 million bond pending an scheduled August 20 trial date.
Mayor Charles Griswold announced Tuesday night that the city has a first draft of a revenue and expense budget – the first one in 12 years. Griswold says it is a “no frills” balanced budget, with little money for sidewalk repairs or new vehicles.
A review of the city’s bank account shows a balance of approximately $1.5 million of unrestricted money. That amounts to 6.5% of the city’s annual expenditures. Generally accepted business practices suggest a minimum of 10% should be held in reserve. Mayor Griswold says he and the city hall staff are working to increase revenues and find additional savings.
The “Mayor’s van” has been reassigned to the Fairfield Municipal Airport. The van will be used as a courtesy vehicle for pilots who fly into Fairfield on business.
A Norris City man has been jailed on two felony sex charges. Dalton R. Meyers, 21 was taken into custody Tuesday on a class-2 felony charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and for failure to register as a sex offender. White County State’s Attorney Denton Aud filed the charges Tuesday morning. Meyers is accused of having unlawful sexual contact with an individual over the age of 13, but under the age of 17. He has been lodged in the White County Jail at Carmi under $50,000 bond.
The post Headlines for Wednesday, June 26, 2013 appeared first on WFIW - WOKZ Radio Fairfield IL.