Monday, June 23, 2014

WVTK Local & State News June 23, 2014

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation to combat heroin and opioid addiction in the state. A press release says legislative leaders reached an agreement last week that will include new programs and insurance reforms; improve treatment options for individuals suffering from heroin and opioid addiction; strengthen penalties; implement new tools for law enforcement to crack down on the distribution of illegal drugs; provisions to ensure proper and safe use of naloxone; and public awareness campaigns on drug abuse.

A rabid fox attacked six people in Montpelier Saturday afternoon. Police say one woman was in the front yard with some children when a small gray colored fox ran into the yard. The fox bit her arm, hand, and leg. She was able to get free from the fox and run into the house with the kids. Police say another woman reported being bitten by a fox on Derby Drive. A mail carrier also reported that a fox tried to attack him while on his route on Colonial Drive. Police say the fox was later spotted on Hillcrest Drive by a resident who watched the fox try to bite a small small child and the parent. Police say the fox did test positive for rabies. All of the victims who had contact with the fox were contacted by the Vermont Department of Health. All six victims are reported to be doing well.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking applications for grants to preserve and repair housing for low-income families in rural areas. Eligible applicants include town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian tribes and nonprofit and faith-based organizations. The USDA does not provide funding directly to homeowners under this program. Up to $3.9 million is available in fiscal 2014. Applications are due July 28.

Castleton police chief Bruce Sherwin is planning to retire almost 40 years to the day since he began his career in Vermont law enforcement. The 62-year-old Sherwin received his certificate from the Vermont Police Academy on June 28, 1974. He's stepping down Friday, a day short of the anniversary. Sherwin's first job was as a part-time office in the city of Rutland. He was accredited as a full-time officer in 1980 and he spent the next 19 years climbing the ranks in Rutland. Sherwin joined the Castleton department in 2002. He became chief in 2004.