On Wednesday, May 29, 2013, a one-day trial ended with a Metcalfe Circuit Court jury finding Ones Leroyce Barlow, 58, of Edmonton, guilty of Manufacturing Methamphetamine, 1st offense; Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree (meth); Possession of Marijuana; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Barlow was indicted in July 2012 based on a search of his residence conducted by Metcalfe County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Neal and other law enforcement officers. During the search, marijuana, methamphetamine, various chemicals and equipment used in the production of methamphetamine and numerous items of drug paraphernalia were discovered.

The Commonwealth presented its case about what items were found at Barlow’s residence and how many of the items are commonly used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. The Commonwealth also introduced evidence proving that Barlow possessed items with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine. The defense argued that the items could have been used for legitimate reasons and not to manufacture methamphetamine.

The jury deliberated for 30 minutes before returning a verdict of guilty on all charges. After the penalty phase the jury recommended a total sentence of 13 years.

This case was prosecuted by Commonwealth’s Attorney John Gardner and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Mike Pearson. Gardner stated that he was very pleased with the jury’s verdict and hopes it will send a message to the community that the production of methamphetamine will not be taken lightly.

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The joint city-county ten-shelter building project is progressing nicely with four of them at various stages of completion.

The 21’ x 31’ FEMA 361 compliant structures are suitable for 100 persons to shelter in for a brief time in case of severe weather. There are no seats or bathroom facilities.

The first shelter, located behind the county extension service building, is complete except for air vents, electrical work and doors. The one in Center is ready for the roof to be poured, and the Summer Shade VFW location is having work done by the county road department.

Locations of the other five shelters will be: at the Knob Lick voting house on KY 1243, the VFW building on Cedar Flat-Curtis, Timmy Circle off Branstetter Park Rd., the Sulphur Well fire house off Hwy. 70 and on Countryway Estates off Hwy. 68/80.

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The Kentucky State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred Tuesday morning, June 4, seven miles east of Edmonton at 6304 Glasgow Road in Metcalfe County.

Post 15 received the call at approximately 9 a.m. from Edmonton PD and learned that 58-year-old Ronnie Hiser was the victim of a gunshot wound. His wife, Karen Hiser, was at the residence at the time of the shooting and placed the call to 911. Karen Hiser was not injured. Ronnie Hiser was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital where he subsequently died of his injuries at approximately 2 p.m. Wednesday morning, June 5.

The alleged shooter, William D. Chesher, 63, of Louisville, was located in Edmonton some time after the shooting. He was arrested and charged with Assault first degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence. A murder charge was added upon the death of Ronnie Hiser.

Chesher was lodged in Barren County Jail in Glasgow.

Kentucky State Police Detective Ricky Brooks continues the investigation.