Riverside County unveils mobile probation units to reach unhoused, transportation-limited clients

KESQ on July 29, 2025

Garrett Hottle

The Riverside County Probation Department is hitting the road — literally — in a bid to bring key supervision and support services to people who need them the most.

County officials on Tuesday unveiled two new Mobile Service Centers, climate-controlled vans equipped to function as fully operational probation offices. The initiative is aimed at assisting unhoused individuals and clients who struggle with transportation access, by providing services directly in the community — at parks, libraries, shelter lots, and resource fairs across Riverside County.

“Reliable transportation should never be the deciding factor in whether someone succeeds on probation,” said Chief Probation Officer Christopher H. Wright. “By meeting people where they are, our Mobile Service Centers remove a major obstacle, helping clients stay on track, fulfill court-ordered requirements, and ultimately move forward with their lives.”

Each vehicle is outfitted with secure interview spaces, printers, Wi-Fi, and telehealth stations for virtual mental health and substance use counseling. They also offer the option to appear remotely before a judge, without the need to travel to a courthouse.

Tune into News Channel Three tonight at 4pm, 5pm, and 6pm for more details and an up close look at these new probation units.

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Third person charged in 2021 death of Columbia man in Benton County

KMIZ on July 29, 2025

Madison Stuerman

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A third person has been charged with murder in connection with the death of a Columbia man in 2021 in Benton County.

Cody Garrett, 28, was reported missing on June 21, 2021. Benton County deputies found Garrett’s vehicle and remains off the trails near a bike park outside Warsaw, Missouri. An autopsy showed he had been killed.

Kayley and Michael Birnbaum were charged in May after he confessed to law enforcement, according to court documents.

On Monday, Jack Wagner, of Springfield, was also charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the death of Garrett.

Court documents state Benton County deputies interviewed Wagner on July 24 in Springfield and told the deputies he helped the couple plan and research the killing of Wagner.

Deputies said Wagner admitted to telling both Kayley and Michael how to clean up and destroy evidence, burn clothing and plan an alibi.

Wagner told deputies he thought a redacted name was a threat to his grandchildren, according to documents. He also told deputies he helped two people, whose names are redacted, by creating an alibi for one. He also allegedly told deputies the couple “trusted him to help them get away with it.”

During the interview, deputies said Wagner had a phone call with one of the other suspects to confirm “all loose ends were tied up.”

Court documents also state Wagner signed a statement admitting his part in the death of Garrett. Deputies said phone records also indicate his statement.

Both Birnbaums are being held at the Benton County jail after court documents state deputies found multiple weapons inside their home, including a sword that matched Garrett’s injuries. Court documents also say they burned evidence and threw the gun used to shoot Garrett in the Missouri River.

A hearing was held on Monday, where a judge found enough probable cause to issue an arrest warrant for Wagner. His bond is set at two million dollars.

It is unclear if Wagner is in custody as of Tuesday afternoon.

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Missouri says ‘goodbye’ to drought

News-Press NOW on July 29, 2025

Abigail McCluskey

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Over the past several years, Missouri has dealt with the ongoing impacts of persistent dry conditions.

From agricultural stress to fire risks and water supply concerns, the drought has touched nearly every corner of the state at some point. But after a waterlogged July, Missouri is finally seeing long-awaited relief.

July 22, 2025 U.S. drought monitor is completely bare.

The St. Joseph region received 6.10 inches of rainfall this month—well above the July average of 4.75 inches. This boost in precipitation has played a major role in easing drought conditions across northwestern Missouri.

Earlier this summer, dry conditions were concentrated near Kansas City, Holt County, and parts of far northeastern Missouri. However, recent widespread rain, including some flash flooding events, has saturated soils and helped replenish moisture levels across much of the state.

Zack Leasor is the Missouri state climatologist and assistant professor at the University of Missouri, expressed his excitement and relief to be drought-free.

“The last time we had no D0 through D4 coverage was actually June 7, 2022. And so we have ebbed and flowed and, and even last summer came really close to recovering fully, but we did not receive zero percent coverage officially,” said Leasor.

This marks a notable change from last year, when Missouri hovered just short of being entirely drought-free around July. At the time, a sizable portion of the state’s southwest corner still struggled with severe dryness.

While the drought condition remains non-existent, further impacts of the summer heat could revert the state back into dry conditions.

The state climatologist continues to express the outlook on drought conditions over the next month,

“For the next month or so, it looks like the wetter-than-average conditions would be more likely to persist, kind of in these areas in northern Missouri,” said Leasor.

Leasor added that the risk of drought over the next few weeks remains low; however, it only takes a few weeks in the summer heat to impact soil conditions.

For more updates and a county-by-county look at drought conditions, you can visit https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MO

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MoDOT to replace Gene Field, Riverside Road bridges in spring 2027

News-Press NOW on July 29, 2025

Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph drivers will see two of the city’s most heavily trafficked bridges overhauled and replaced with entirely new structures in 2027, with traffic impacts potentially lasting up to six months.

The Gene Field Road bridge over Interstate 29 and the Riverside/Route AC bridge over U.S Route 36 will be demolished and replaced by the Missouri Department of Transportation, two projects totalling $16.4 million.

The aging bridges are more than 50 years old and reaching their intended lifespans, with both requiring regular maintenance, including a bridge-deck repair project planned for the Gene Field bridge this month.

“It’s time to get them replaced,” said Shannon Kusilek, district design engineer with MoDOT’s Northwest District. “Both of those bridges should be under construction in the spring of 2027.”

He said the goal is to have both bridges replaced by October or November of that year, an estimated six-to-eight-month timeframe depending on the project. The Gene Field Road project is expected to start once school is out in late May, while the Riverside project could begin as early as March or April.

At $5.7 million, the new Gene Field bridge will be nearly identical to the current structure but will feature new sidewalks, unlike the current bridge, providing stronger connections for pedestrians and cyclists.

The current Gene Field Road bridge was constructed back in 1962.

“I think it’s gonna be in the same grade and maybe a little bit wider for a little bit easier movements and things like that,” Kusilek said. “The Riverside Road AC bridge is going to be a little bit bigger project that’s going to be a complete replacement as well.”

At $10.7 million, the Riverside Road bridge project comes with double the budget compared to Gene Field, driven by a notable change in the addition of two new lanes, pushing it from a three-lane to a five-lane bridge.

On and off-ramps to U.S. Route 36 will also be improved in the process of construction. The Riverside Road bridge was opened back in 1973.

“We’ve got to get that bridge replaced. As you know, it’s been closed several times over the years for repairs. That just needs to be replaced as soon as we can get it done,” he said.

The change from three to five lanes is necessary to accommodate a significant increase in traffic since the bridge first opened. The area has seen significant business, commercial and industrial growth in the time since.

Improvements are also necessary to lay the groundwork for future improvements alongside Riverside Road, including potentially widening it.

“We have looked at improvements starting at Mitchell going all the way down as far as Pickett in the future and what future plans would accommodate that five lane structure,” he said. “Traffic’s grown a lot in that area.”

While a full traffic control plan with detours hasn’t been finalized yet, Kusilek said the department is likely to use Craig Parkway as the main detour for the Riverside/Route AC project.

“We’re going to use Craig Parkway that’s to the west of Route AC as part of our detour plan. So that’s going to be our main detour for that project,” he said. “With Gene Field, we’ll have to go through that and come up with some alternate routes to get to school that following fall.”

The two projects mark the latest push by the state over the last five to six years to overhaul many of its bridges when it was revealed that Missouri had more than 900 rated in “poor” condition. Of the states 24,538 bridges, 9,663 were reportedly in need of repair.

Kusilek said they’re roughly halfway done with the comprehensive bridge project for the Northwest District, often partnering with the Northeast District in the process.

“We ran a recent evaluation of our bridges. And in our district, for the first time in a long time, I believe we have under 100 bridges that are considered to be in poor condition. And we had as many as over 200 a few years ago.”

Despite the department’s success, many bridges continue to deteriorate quickly and significant work remains.

“We’re getting ahead, but at some point they’re going to start catching up. So it’s a never ending battle,” he said.

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From Mahomes to memories: Chiefs kingdom shows up strong at camp

News-Press NOW on July 29, 2025

Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Even with a heat advisory in effect, Kansas City Chiefs fans were out in full force at training camp Monday morning, bringing the energy and excitement that only Chiefs Kingdom can deliver. 

The gates opened at 8 a.m., and by 9:15 a.m. — the official start of practice — fans were already lining the field, eager for a glimpse of their favorite players. 

Fans at camp shared their experience of not only being present for the training but also about who their favorite player is and why.  

“My favorite Chiefs player is Patrick Mahomes because he is from Texas, and the first thing I say after I meet him would be If I can get a picture with him,” said Chiefs fan Hannah Kinard.

Despite the sweltering temperatures, crowds gathered with smiles, Chiefs gear and lots of spirit, determined to soak in every second of the experience. 

Tents around the campus helped provide shade, water, first aid and hygiene supplies to keep fans protected from the sun. 

“I haven’t been able to get any autographs yet, but I would like to tell every Chiefs’ fan to try and get his (Mahomes’) autograph,” Kinard said.  

Chiefs fan, Hannah Knight, was dead-set on Travis Kelce being her favorite player.

“He is a great tight end and knows how to take it down the field and works really well with Mahomes,” said Knight.

While training camp is about preparing for the season ahead, for many fans, it’s also about tradition, community, and their personal stories that tie them to the team.  

“Probably a whole lot of meeting new friends which we have already met, and just the ambiance of being at Chiefs training camp because I haven’t been here since the 70s,” said training camp attendee, Rebecca Adams.  

One message that was clear from the training camp- Chiefs’ fans are dreaming big and aiming for another Super Bowl.

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Indio homeowner fights back against HOA regulations on backyard mural

KESQ on July 29, 2025

Athena Jreij

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) — One Indio homeowner is fighting back after he says his Homeowners Association told him his backyard mural violates the community’s guidelines. Now, they’re asking him to submit an application for the art, or paint over it.

Jesse Borrego says he paid $2,500 to commission a backyard mural in his home as a love letter to the Coachella Valley.

“Every time someone books they always want to know, is the mural still there? Can I take a picture in front of it? Can I post it? And we just love that,” Borrego said.

Earlier this month members of his HOA found a photo of it on an AirBnb listing, he says he may have to paint over the wall if it isn’t approved in an architectural planning application.

The community association says any paintings or designs must be pre-approved. They also told Borrego since it was on an exterior structure, it could disrupt neighbors. 

However, Borrego sees it as an overreach of the HOA, and says the mural isn’t visible from the outside or by his neighbors. Now, he thinks it’s a targeted enforcement by the HOA because the home is a short-term rental. 

“I don’t think short term rentals in this community get a fair shake. Why do I need an architecture application for my wall? That’s within my four walls of my house. They said that the board didn’t like it, that it wasn’t harmonious, to the development. I absolutely disagreed,” Borrego said. 

Getting answers, News Channel Three took those questions to a local realtor, Wendy Moldow who said HOA’s can be watchful community eyes, or irritants for residents who clash with board members. 

“It comes down to the fact that had he put it on a piece of canvas and attached that canvas or a big board and attach that to the wall, they would have nothing to say. But he’s put it on to a permanent structure where because he’s in an HOA, they do have rules and regulations,” Moldow said. 

Moldow suggested Borrego get a bucket of the same paint and tell the HOA it’s a temporary piece of art, that can be removed if the house is sold. 

For those looking to buy a home, she advises to get familiar with the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, or CC&R guidelines, HOA’s ask homeowners to sign. 

“When you purchase a house and you’re given those keys, you are also given minutes to their meetings that they’ve (HOAs) had. You can request them for the year prior to your purchase, and you can see what other homeowners have complained about during those minutes.” 

Borrego said he respects the rules, but still thinks it’s unfair. 

“I did sign the guidelines. So I’m not saying that I’m not going to abide by. I’m just saying that I think that we’re being singled out because we’re short term rentals.” 

News Channel 3 reached out to the HOA requesting more information. 

In a full statement, the Board of Directors said: 

“Terra Lago Community Association is a gated community in Indio, consisting of 636 homes. As with all homeowners associations, we are governed by a set of documents that all residents are required to follow. One of these is the Architectural Guidelines, which clearly state that any exterior modification must be submitted through an application to the Design Review Committee prior to any work commencing.

In 2023, Mr. Borrego was made aware of a violation related to a mural painted on an exterior wall. At that time, he acknowledged the issue and provided photographs to the HOA showing that the wall had been restored to its original color. However, upon a recent inspection earlier this year, it was discovered that the mural had not actually been removed. A follow-up letter was sent to Mr. Borrego regarding this matter.

We have since requested that Mr. Borrego submit the appropriate architectural application so the Board and Design Review Committee can formally review and consider his request. As of today, no application has been received.

We trust that he will comply with the community’s governing documents and bring this matter to resolution promptly.” 

News Channel 3 reached back out to Borrego for comment. According to him, the wall the HOA is referencing is actually a side wall that was painted another color, and requested to be painted back to white.

He says this a separate wall from the mural and provided the first violation notice from the HOA that was dated July 8, 2025. 

Stick with News Channel 3 as we continue to follow this story. 

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‘Big day for our community’: Newly chosen Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert highlights his hopes for his new position

KTVZ on July 29, 2025

Isabella Warren

(Update: Adding video, comments from commissioners, new interim sheriff, KTVZ.COM Poll)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes County has a new sheriff. Deschutes County commissioners on Tuesday morning chose – on a split vote – Sheriff’s Office Detective and Special Services Commander Ty Rupert to serve as interim sheriff through next year’s election, after Thursday’s planned retirement of embattled Sheriff Kent van der Kamp. 

Later, Rupert told KTVZ News, “It’s a big day for our office. Big day for our community. It’s a big day for me.”

Commission Chairman Tony DeBone and colleagues Patti Adair and Phil Chang all praised the quality and experience of the five applicants to serve in the position. But Chang abstained when it came time for a vote to appoint Rupert to serve as sheriff for up to 18 months, until a new sheriff is elected by voters next year.

“I’m not opposed to putting Captain Rupert into this role,” Chang said, but he noted that in a poll of the Deschutes County Sheriff Employees’ Association members, DCSO Detective Lt. James McLaughlin “ranked a little bit higher” than Rupert. 

While acknowledging that the association ranking is “not the only factor we should be considering,” Chang said, “If our priority is to give the sheriff’s office employees a leader they can get behind, I think they have spoken. I’m not quite ready to vote for that motion yet.” 

Chang later told KTVZ News, “We are all hopeful that Interim Sheriff Rupert is going to help us turn the page on some of the problems that emerged when Sheriff Van der Kamp became sheriff. “

DeBone praised the decision: “Pride, history in the organization – he’s from Deschutes County proper. He’s worked up through the ranks, and is just so proud to be able to serve the people of Deschutes County.”

Rupert has been with the office since 2005 and currently leads the sheriff’s investigative units.

He says his term will be focused on the team, creating a more positive culture and gaining the trust of the community.

“We’re here to serve them. And I think that’s been lost over the years. It’s important that we get back to the citizens and talk to them,” Rupert said.

The selection ends a months-long saga, after van der Kamp allegedly lied on his resume and on the witness stand about his past education.

District Attorney Steve Gunnels earlier this year placed Van der Kamp on the Brady list, barring him from testifying at trials. Van der Kamp is currently at risk of losing his credentials as an officer in the state permanently, though he is challenging the action. 

Rupert told us, “We’ve been through a lot. I don’t want to talk about the past. We can’t change it. But the future – we have the opportunity to change the direction in the future and move forward.”

DeBone said Rupert’s swearing-in ceremony is set for 8:30 a.m. Thursday at Courtroom C, although Adair said she could not attend due to a funeral for an uncle, while Chang said he also would not attend due to a meeting related to his role on the state Transportation Commission. 

Commissioners held no public or group interviews with the applicants, deciding to meet with them privately and individually before making their choice.

The other three applicants were Undersheriff Aaron Wells, former DCSO Captain Deron McMaster, and COCC Director of Campus Safety and Emergency Management Cory Darling.

Speaking to the turmoil of recent years, Chang said, “It will be really important for the interim sheriff to assure employees are not punished for throwing their hat in the ring and say they want to run ( for sheriff), and important for the interim sheriff not to use the office to promote their choice for sheriff. I hope all the candidates keep those things in mind.”

Adair supported DeBone’s choice of Rupert, saying, “I think it’s important to have someone steady at this point.”

All spoke highly of all five applicants and said it’s important for all to work together to move the department forward.

“We have great teams, amazing people,” Adair told the sheriff’s office employees in the audience. “Keep doing what you’re doing.”

Chang also praised all the candidates, saying, “I’ve learned how much valuable experience, background and insights they all have on the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and where it can go.” And he said of the pick, “I know Captain Rupert is really good at listening to people.”

Here is Rupert’s letter of interest to the county for the role:

rupert_letter_of_interestDownload

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PSUSD partners with Desert Oasis Healthcare to offer free vaccinations ahead of school year

KESQ on July 29, 2025

Kendall Flynn

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — The school year is just around the corner, especially for students at the Palm Springs Unified School District who are back in school first on August 6th. With the school year, comes preparations for students like being up to date on vaccinations.

PSUSD will be holding free Tdap vaccinations at their middle schools for six days between July 22-31. All students entering 7th through 12th grade are required by California State law to show proof of a Tdap booster vaccine before starting school on August 6th.

The Tdap vaccine is for tetanus, which enters the body through cuts or wounds and diphtheria and pertussis, which are spread from person to person.

Information on each aspect of the vaccine, according to the CDC:

Tetanus can lead to serious health problems, including being unable to open the mouth, difficulty swallowing and breathing, or death. It causes painful stiffening of the muscles.
Diphtheria can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis or death.
Pertussis is also known as “whooping cough,” which can cause uncontrollable and violent coughing that makes eating, drinking or breathing difficult. It can be serious for babies and young children causing convulsions, pnuemonia, brain damage or death. In adults and teens, it can cause weight loss, loss of bladder control, passing out or rib fractures from coughing.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from officials and families on the free vaccination day.

Screenshot

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Game Changer: New Esports Arena coming to ISU

KIFI on July 29, 2025

News Release

The following is a news release from Idaho State University:

POCATELLO, Idaho (ISU) — Idaho State University (ISU) is thrilled to announce a major gift from Direct Communications Rockland, Inc. that will establish the new Direct Communications Esports Arena on the ISU campus. The partnership continues Direct Communications’ deep commitment to rural education and student enrichment across Idaho.

The $520,000 gift will support construction of the state-of-the-art facility, with project groundbreaking anticipated for Fall 2025, and completion targeted for January 1, 2026. The new arena will serve as the hub for ISU’s growing Esports program and a high-tech gathering space for students from all disciplines.

“This generous investment from Direct Communications expands access to cutting-edge technology for ISU students while strengthening our ability to support student wellness, teamwork, and innovation,” said President Robert W. Wagner. “We are incredibly grateful to Tim May and the outstanding Direct Communications team for their continued support of Idaho’s students.”

Lowell Richards, associate vice president for auxiliary services at ISU says that Esports is an important part of campus life and improving student and community engagement.

Members of ISU’s first Esports team pose for a photo on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

Members of ISU’s Esports team boot up their computers on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

“Esports on college campuses is more than just entertainment; it’s a gateway to involvement and a sense of belonging. It brings students together, fostering a community where they can connect, collaborate, and compete.”

Direct Communications is a longstanding benefactor of ISU, playing a key role in multiple initiatives including the INCLUDE project, which provides access to mental health and educational resources to rural high school students across the state, as well as the enhancement of Direct Communications Field at Miller Ranch Stadium, home to Bengal Softball.

In recognition of this contribution, ISU Esports will launch an annual Direct Communications Youth Esports Invitational, beginning after completion of construction, and continuing through at least 2030. Richards says that the current Esports lounge does not have the capacity or equipment to host tournaments, so the Direct Communications Esports Arena is a welcome addition to the Esports facilities at ISU.

“We knew this partnership for the Esports Arena was right for us because it aligns with the goals of Direct Communications. It is about more than just gaming– it is about bringing the best to communities and schools by connecting them to the rapidly evolving digital world. That is what our company is all about, providing high speed internet to rural communities to help bridge the digital divide,” said Tim May, General Manager of Direct Communications. “We are happy to partner with ISU to empower the next generation of Idaho’s innovators.”

For more information on the Esports program or this partnership, visit isu.edu/esports or contact the ISU Foundation.

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Expect lane closures and delays: ITD begins striping operations on Idaho Falls area roads

KIFI on July 29, 2025

News Release

The following is a news release from the Idaho Transportation Department:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (ITD) —Traffic will be affected as the Idaho Transportation Department and contractor partners conduct inlaid striping operations on State Highway 33, U.S. Highway 20, and Interstate 15 Business Loop in Idaho Falls over the next three weeks.

Beginning today, lane closures will be in effect where work is currently underway on SH-33 between Sage Junction and Rexburg. Four miles at one time will be reduced to one lane, with flaggers and pilot cars directing traffic through the work area. Motorists should watch for reduced speed, large equipment, and signs indicating construction ahead.

Roadways will be worked on in this order, with all operations expected to be complete by August 15:

SH-33 between Sage Junction and Rexburg, milepost 59 to 78.

US-20 west of Idaho Falls, milepost 301 to 307, beginning next week.

I-15 Business Loop in Idaho Falls (Sunnyside Road from I-15 to Yellowstone Road).

I-15 Business Loop in Idaho Falls (Yellowstone Road from Sunnyside to Broadway).

Operations on SH-33 and US-20 are being conducted during daytime hours. Crews will work through the night on the I-15 Business Loop in Idaho Falls.

A pilot car and flaggers will only be present on SH-33 this week. Traffic will be directed into one lane and continue to move around the work area on US-20 and I-15 Business Loop.

Inlaid striping is relatively unique in Idaho. The operation involves grinding into the pavement very slightly, creating recessed notches that paint is then applied within. This method aims to extend the life and reflectivity of pavement markings.

Updates regarding these efforts and all roadwork in Idaho can always be found on the Idaho 511 app, or at 511.idaho.gov.

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