Sex offender accused of having AI-generated child porn

News-Press NOW on August 14, 2025

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Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A registered sex offender has been charged with a felony after he allegedly kept child pornography on his cellphone that was generated by artificial intelligence.

Charles Hooton, 63, of Columbia, was charged with possessing child porn. He is being held at the Boone County Jail without bond. An initial court appearance was held Wednesday afternoon.

The probable cause statement says police were called on May 18 about a report of Hooton having child porn after a woman saw a number of images while using his cellphone.

Hooton spoke with police on July 24 and let them go through his phone, court documents say. He allegedly admitted to using an AI app to generate the explicit images, the statement says. Police wrote that more than 130 AI-generated images were found on Hooton’s phone.

“Any time you possess more than 20 images, it’s a felony that comes with a maximum punishment of 15 years in prison,” said Elizabeth Weaver, Boone County Assistant Prosecutor.

Weaver tells ABC 17 News while the pornographic material may be artificial, the people in the photos are real.

“The reality is each time artificial intelligence generates a new item of child sexual abuse media it is re- victimizing those who have been used and taken advantage of in order to create the original images,” Weaver said.

Hooton’s web history also included several websites that had “teen,” “boy” and other related phrases in the name, court documents say.

Court documents and the Missouri sex offender registry say Hooton was convicted of second-degree statutory sodomy 25 years ago.

The Executive Director for Missouri’s Network Against Child Abuse Jessica Seitz told ABC 17 News artificial intelligence is the latest hurdle in their fight.

“The use of AI through an app to create CSAM? We don’t have great data on that yet because, we’re just trying to catch up with how we’re tracking the use of technology,” Seitz said.

Seitz believes prevention is in education of both adults and children.

“The best they can do on the prevention side is to try to discourage from your images being out there in public as much as possible. You can’t be sure what those images, once they’re public, you can’t be sure what’s going to be done with them,” Seitz said.

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Kuna inmates taunt convicted killer Bryan Kohberger through vents

KIFI on August 14, 2025

News Team

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — University of Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger is reportedly making complaints to prison guards that he is facing verbal abuse and taunts from fellow inmates.

The 30-year-old former Washington State University criminology Ph.D. student pleaded guilty to the murders of four undergrads at the nearby University of Idaho last month – Madison Mogen, 21, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20.

The deal – which allowed Kohberger to avoid the death penalty – ensured that the convicted killer would be housed in a secure housing unit with individual cells called J Block, at the Idaho State Correctional Complex in Kuna, Idaho. Although he is separated from other inmates in J block, it’s reported that inmates are yelling at him through grates, taunting him through vents in his cell.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, which broke the story, the inmates are taking turns yelling at the convicted killer through a grate. “They are literally getting up into the grate and yelling at him,” Chris McDonough, a former detective who is now with the Cold Case foundation, told the outlet. “The inmates are taking turns doing it. It’s relentless.”

Kohberger is also reporting to guards that he cannot sleep amidst the harassment. However, it seems the convicted killer is receiving little sympathy from former convicts, prison officials, or the community at large. In an interview with Fox News Digital, former prison pastor Keith Roverea said Kohberger is, “lucky it’s only verbal abuse right now.” He believes Kohberger is only making the situation much worse by complaining.

“I have no doubt he’s contemplating suicide already because he’s not even a month in, and he’s losing control,” Rovere told the outlet. “Most serial killers tend to be control freaks. Throw autism on top of that, and the chaos that the inmates are causing him is making him lose his mind. And it’s only going to get worse.”

In response to the reported complaints, the Idaho Department of Corrections said in a statement, “Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison. Bryan Kohberger is housed alone in a cell, and IDOC security staff maintain a safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody.” 

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Local reaction to Trump announcing plans to reclassify cannabis

KYMA on August 14, 2025

Manoah Tuiasosopo

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – President Donald Trump has announced plans to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous drug at the federal level, and local cannabis business owners say the move could bring big benefits.

Cannabis is currently classified as a Schedule I drug, the same category as heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy but that could change.

The federal government may soon reclassify marijuana to a lower tier, potentially treating it more like alcohol or tobacco, a move local cannabis businesses say is long overdue.

Angel Fernandez, the President and Owner of Aroma Cannabis, says, “This is exciting because everyone knows that Trump appointed someone new as the head of the DEA, and we’re hoping that they will see it all they way through.”

Aroma Cannabis and Yuma Dispensary both say the change could bring significant benefits including easier access to banking services, reduced tax burdens, and the ability to expand legally.

Fernandez says, “There’s a lot of challenges to running a cannabis company, and the deductions that we’re not allowed to take in our IRS forms every single year when we file taxes, that’s one of the big ones.”

Ricardo Nava, a Store Manager at Yuma Dispensary, adds, “That means we can’t write off the salaries, marketing, or any bills like a traditional business, so that’s kind of heavy on the owner, it’s a lot of out of pocket.”

But it’s not just owners who could benefit as staff and customers may see positive changes too.

Nava explains, “I feel the customer will be the first one that will benefit off of it, actually being able to use debit and credit cards at a location…For employees, it’s just going to benefit them being able to express where they work and be proud of where they work at.”

For years, Arizona cannabis users have traveled to California for better prices and higher quality but industry leaders say that’s changing.

Raul Molina, the Chief Operations Officer for Mint Cannabis in Phoenix, says, “I think Arizona is catching up and you’ll see a little bit less of that as people go into the stores.”

Molina says new strains, better cultivation, and stronger local businesses are making a big difference.

“Five years ago, either store in Yuma would’ve had a hard time breaking 250 (thousand) a month, and right now you’ve got one at 300 (thousand) and one at 600 (thousand), so there’s one million dollars a month being sold from in the Yuma-Somerton area.”

Health officials also say the move could open doors for more medical research and regulated clinical trials.

But not everyone supports the plan, as critics say it could harm public health as well as impact younger generations.

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WATCH: Kehoe opens Governor’s Ham Breakfast at Missouri State Fair

KMIZ on August 14, 2025

Matthew Sanders

SEDALIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe opened the Governor’s Ham Breakfast on Thursday morning at the Missouri State Fair.

The yearly dinner serves as a showcase for officeholders and politicians.

Watch Kehoe’s remarks in the media player.

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Limited number of ‘brain-eating’ amoeba cases leads to hurdles in treatment, health experts say

KMIZ on August 14, 2025

ABC 17 News Team

By Alison Patton

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A health expert claims there is no “documented guideline” for treating a rare brain infection that the Department of Health and Senior Services said on Wednesday could have been contracted by someone at the Lake of the Ozarks.

University of Missouri infectious disease expert Dr. Christian Rojas Moreno described the hurdles in treating Naegleria fowleri, which can lead to an infectioncalledprimary amebic meningoencephalitisalso known as a “brain-eating” infection.

Cases of the disease are rare, which makes diagnosing the brain-eating amoeba difficult because the symptoms overlap with other diseases. 

Rojas Moreno said symptoms show up about one to 12 days after the amoeba makes its way into the brain by entering through the nose. Meningitis, or inflammation in the brain, is a common symptom of a brain eating amoeba.

“We will evaluate for other causes of meningitis, bacterial viral and others,” Rojas Moreno said. “When that testing is negative, we might start expanding our evaluations.” 

Other symptoms include severe headache, fever, stiff neck, vomiting or changes in mental state, Rojas Moreno said. If these symptoms are present, seek medical attention immediately. 

Boone Health infectious disease Physician Phillip Beck said the best way to identify the infection in a patient is knowing if they went swimming. 

“It’s a really high index of suspicion,” Beck said. “This patient has been in the water in the summer time and underwater, getting the water into their nasal cavity.”

A Wednesday press release from the Missouri DHSS called the infection “rare occurrence.”

Once the cause of meningitis is known, doctors can then administer medicine through an IV, Rojas Moreno said. 

Meningitis also causes pressure to build up in the brain from fluid, so a spinal tap might be necessary, Beck added.  Beck also said most cases are diagnosed post mortem because the amoeba takes over the brain so violently.

“The way this amoeba works is that it actually will ingest and kill cells in the central nervous system. So it’s a very nasty process,” Beck said.

An epidemiologist from the DHSS told ABC 17 News on Wednesday that treatment can often be difficult because of how few cases health officials see each year. Nathan Koffarnus, of the DHSS, said around three cases occur in the US each year. Rojas Moreno shared a similar sentiment.

“Because it has been probably many, many exposures over the years and the infection numbers are very low,” Rojas Moreno said. 

From 1962-2024, there were 167 cases reported around the country, according to the DHSS press release from Wednesday.

Rojas Moreno recommends avoiding exposure if possible, but if not he said wearing a nose clip while swimming in bodies of water where the amoeba could live. 

Check back for updates.

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EXCLUSIVE: Inside look at the new bar replacing the Barracks

KESQ on August 14, 2025

Luis Avila

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – A once-familiar space is getting a new life. Work has started on the upcoming Eagle Cathedral City, a bar that promises to offer more than just a remodel.

Jeremy and Phillip Nalwalker, co-owners of Eagle Cathedral City, say patrons can expect a completely redone interior, modern sound and lighting systems, and a larger dance floor, among other things.

It’s set to open its doors in the building that formerly housed The Barracks — a longtime staple of the local LGBTQ+ community before it closed down in 2024.

The owners say that’s part of the reason they were inspired to open Eagle.

“This is a space we used to come frequently, it was our home bar… We felt there really was a hole in our community once it closed… It seemed no one was doing anything to fill that gap so we thought, let’s do it.”

Jeremy Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

But the former bar had a tainted legacy — one marked by community concerns and serious allegations in its final years.

The owners say creating a safe environment is their top priority.

“First and foremost, we want a safe place for our community to come and gather for years to come and I think, to be able to do that, we follow all the local and state law and regulations that apply to bars and premises that sell alcohol. That’s our most important thing we need to do.”

Jeremy Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

Eagle Cathedral City is already generating excitement. Community members have expressed optimism about the new bar and what it could bring to the area.

City officials are also embracing the change. In a statement to News Channel 3, Cathedral City City Manager Charlie McClendon said:

“The City of Cathedral City is excited to support another business opening in our community following the closure of The Barracks. We take tremendous pride in our city’s substantial LGBTQ+ population and Cathedral City’s rich history as a welcoming place for diverse entrepreneurs and businesses.

The owners of Eagle Cathedral City have been incredibly communicative and responsive throughout their interactions with City staff. While they still need to complete the site plan submission and business license process, we appreciate their proactive approach and professionalism.

Cathedral City has long been a place where diverse businesses can thrive, and we’re committed to supporting entrepreneurs who want to contribute to our vibrant community. We wish the Eagle Cathedral City team well on their journey and look forward to working with them to complete the necessary processes.

This represents another chapter in Cathedral City’s proud tradition of welcoming LGBTQ+ businesses and celebrating the diversity that makes our community special.”

Beyond being a nightlife venue, Eagle Cathedral City aims to play an active role in the local community.

“We want the Eagle to be a hub for the community and a place where different nonprofit organizations can leverage our space to donate to charity.”

Phillip Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

Eagle Cathedral City is expected to open this winter

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Fatal motorcycle crash claims life of Madison County man

KIFI on August 14, 2025

News Team

 IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) —A 49-year-old Madison County man has died following a fatal motorcycle crash on 160th E. near Old Ririe Highway. The rider, identified as Jeremy Paul Hurst, was pronounced dead at the scene after his motorcycle collided with a parked garbage truck.

Bonneville County Sheriff’s Deputies, along with an Idaho Falls Ambulance and Jefferson Central Fire, were dispatched to the scene around 12:30 p.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the motorcycle rider trapped underneath the truck. Air Idaho Rescue was called to assist, and emergency responders worked to free him from the truck and began life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Hurst succumbed to his injuries.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the preliminary investigation suggests Hurst was traveling north on 160th E. when he failed to notice the garbage truck parked on the side of the road in time to maneuver around it safely. Witnesses reported that Hurst had laid his motorcycle on its side just before the collision. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and no other individuals were injured.

Bonneville County Sheriff’s Deputies are continuing to investigate the crash.

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Bend Girl Scout’s project aims to protect local waterways from harmful sunscreen chemicals

KTVZ on August 14, 2025

Jillian Fortner

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – A new sign at Riverbend Park is asking river users to choose “river-friendly” sun protection. It’s part of Girl Scout Serafina Quercini’s Gold Award project, aimed at reducing sunscreen chemicals that can wash into the Deschutes.

I was curious because most people know that coral reefs are impacted by sunscreen. Because our river is such a big part of our community here. I wanted to know if sunscreen had that affect on freshwater,” Quercini said.

Many popular sunscreens contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals that protect skin from powerful UV rays but can harm fish, aquatic insects, and overall water quality once they enter the water.

Serafina says sunscreen chemicals can disrupt fish reproduction, harm aquatic insects, and lower water quality, impacts that ripple through the entire freshwater ecosystem.

Oregon State University toxicologist Professor Robyn Tanguay says the effects are similar in saltwater and freshwater.

“In areas where lots of people are in the water, those concentrations can build up and become harmful,” said Tanguay.

That concern is why places like Hawaii have banned certain sunscreen chemicals to protect coral reefs and marine life.

“These are manmade chemicals,” said Tanguay. “Some of them, not all of them, bio accumulate. So that means the low concentrations in the water, but you keep adding more to the water that those chemicals concentrate into tissues like human tissues or fish and, etc..”

As part of her project, Quercini partnered with Bend Park and Recreation District to design and install the new sign. She also created educational rack cards now being shared at hotels, water-sport shops, and tour companies.

“I enjoyed collaborating with Serafina on her project because it fits well with our other efforts to raise awareness of how to responsibly enjoy river recreation,” said Julie Brown, Community Engagement Director for Bend Parks and Recreation.

Quercini plans to continue this line of study in college; she’ll be pursuing marine science at UC Berkeley.

“I didn’t know that this project was going to go as far as it did, and I’m really glad it did. It took a lot of work,” Quercini said. “It makes me hopeful that people will change their mind about their sunscreen and that it will hopefully have an impact, and that a small Girl Scout from Bend, Oregon can make a difference.”

Quercini says look for products that are mineral based, or that don’t include harsh chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate. Aerosol sunscreens often contain propane and butane, which are harmful propellants. To be eco-friendly, stick to lotion or liquid options.

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Cole County prosecutor will not accept cases from deputy on probation

KMIZ on August 14, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Cole County’s top prosecutor will not accept criminal cases submitted by a deputy who recently pleaded guilty to a pair of misdemeanors.

Prosecutor Locke Thompson wrote a letter to Cole County Sheriff John Wheeler saying he would not take cases submitted by Mercy Gonzalez, who pleaded guilty last week to reckless driving and failing to obey a traffic control device.

Thompson’s letter is dated Monday, Aug. 11 and Gonzalez pleaded guilty on Friday, Aug. 8. She was sentenced to two years of unsupervised probation, ordered to complete 40 hours of community service within six months and complete the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Emergency Vehicle Operations Course in October.

She faces a year in jail if she violates her probation.

“As a matter of policy, the Cole County Prosecutor’s Office does not accept criminal referrals from law enforcement officers who have previously pled guilty to any felony or who are currently subject to any criminal diversion program or on probation, whether felony or misdemeanor,” the letter states. “As a result of the guilty plea referenced above, Deputy Gonzalez now falls under this category, and no criminal referrals submitted by her to the Cole County Prosecutor’s Office will be accepted.”

Gonzalez was previously listed as a school resource officer in the Blair Oaks R-2 School District, though her information no longer appears on the district’s website.

Court documents in previous reporting say Gonzalez crashed her patrol vehicle with a Honda Pilot at the intersection of Highway 179 and West Edgewood Drive in Jefferson City on Dec. 15, 2023.

The Honda was driving on West Edgewood Drive when it was hit by Gonzalez’s Dodge Charger that was driving 115 miles per hour while going south on Highway 179, court documents say. Gonzalez had her emergency lights on, but court documents do not clarify if she was in a chase. The probable cause statement says Gonzalez tried to steer away from the victim’s vehicle, but was unsuccessful.

Letter Re Deputy Mercy Gonzalez 8.11.25Download

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Firefighters respond to aircraft emergency in Aguanga

KESQ on August 14, 2025

Jesus Reyes

AGUANGA, Calif. (KESQ) – Firefighters are at the scene of an aircraft emergency in Aguanga.

The incident was first reported at around 8:45 a.m. on the 49000 block of Sky Harbor Way.

“Firefighters responded to reports of a small aircraft on its side with a damaged wing as it landed on the runway. The aircraft was removed from the runway and no injuries were reported,” reads a post by CAL FIRE Riverside.

Environmental Health was requested to scene.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any updates.

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