News Cast for November 13th:
Another drug bust
A 20 year old Okeechobee man was charged with several drug felonies after an undercover detective was able to purchase narcotics from him, the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force said.
Elijah Barney allegedly sold $11,000 worth of drugs to an undercover detective at 7175 NE 4th Street.
The arrest report stated Barney had mushrooms, ecstasy, LSD, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and other suspects in the home.
Okeechobee Sheriff Noel Stephen urged listeners to be on the lookout for strange vehicles after three horses were stolen in Okeechobee on Nov. 9.
There have been similar thefts in rural areas of St. Lucie County in recent weeks.
Stephen said they are working together with other agencies to gather leads in these thefts.
Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers accepts tips on unsolved cases and you could be eligible for rewards.
The hotline is 1-800-273-8477.
Okeechobee County celebrated veterans this week as they also issued a proclamation for Operation Green Light.
Veterans Service Officer Paul Hiott said he has filed about 300 claims for veterans since he took the job. He said those veterans are eligible for over $1.2 million in benefits.
Okeechobee County Fire Rescue had more than 30 firemen, volunteers, and students on hand for a controlled training burn on SW 2nd Avenue on November 8.
The property owner had donated the small home for training purposes.
The crews emphasized safety and water supply at the exercise.
Fire Chief Earl Wooten said this is very valuable training opportunities. He noted while they have a training tower, there is nothing like a house fire to train firemen on how unpredictable fire can be.
While the training is not required for certification it was a good way for students to see what’s important to know when fighting a house fire.
Martin County voted 5-0 to pursue an agreement with Brightline for a station in downtown Stuart.
The city of Stuart denied a similar deal earlier this fall.
The county would be on the hook for up to $15 million.
They intend to pursue federal rail and transportation grants for up to $60 million.
The company could also receive revenues from parking fees at the new station.