“Held in sexual servitude”: Jury indicts former school board member for human trafficking

CNN Newsource on October 17, 2025

By by Jennifer Emert & Ruby Annas

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    HENDERSON COUNTY, North Carolina (WLOS) — A Henderson County grand jury has indicted former Henderson County School Board member and Only Hope WNC founder Michael Absher on three counts of human trafficking of child victims.

The court records were published on Thursday, October 16. According to the indictment, the defendant, Absher, had three minors “held in sexual servitude.”

Only Hope is a nonprofit in Hendersonville dedicated to supporting homeless youth.

In a press release issued on Monday, Aug. 18, the board of directors of Only Hope WNC, Inc. confirmed that Michael Lee Absher “has been formally removed from all positions of authority.”

Per the release, Absher is no longer affiliated with the nonprofit organization.

“The safety, well-being, and trust of our clients and the community are our highest priorities,” Kyle Barker, interim chair of the Only Hope Board of Directors, said via the release. “While this is a difficult moment, it is necessary for Only Hope to completely separate itself from Mr. Absher. We are committed to transparency, stability, and moving forward with purpose.”

Absher is a former Henderson County School Board member elected in 2016, according to previous reporting. He served one term and lost reelection in 2020, per Henderson County election results.

On July 31, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 35-year-old Absher was arrested and charged with multiple sex offenses related to minors. These included two counts of statutory sexual offense with someone 15 years old or younger, the sheriff’s office said on July 31.

On Monday, Aug. 18, District Attorney Andrew Murray confirmed Absher was also charged with seven counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.

As News 13 previously reported and according to court records, additional charges were filed against Absher on Sept. 16: One count of indecent liberties with a child and seven counts of statutory sexual offense with a person who is 15 years of age or younger.

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Kevin Harrington
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Fountain Fort Carson vs. Legend

KRDO on October 17, 2025

Rob Namnoum

The Fountain Fort Carson football team falls to Legend 56-13 on Thursday night.

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Pueblo South shuts out Pueblo Centennial

KRDO on October 17, 2025

Rob Namnoum

The Pueblo South football team shut out Pueblo Centennial on Thursday night 44-0.

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Day one of the Class 4A boys state tennis tournament

KRDO on October 17, 2025

Rob Namnoum

Day one of the Class 4A boys state tennis tournament from Pueblo City Park.

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Walter Clark Legal Group files lawsuit after abuse claim at RivCo jail

KESQ on October 17, 2025

Garrett Hottle

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) – The Walter Clark Legal Group has filed a lawsuit against Sheriff Chad Bianco, the County of Riverside, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office in federal court after a pretrial detainee was assaulted in jail.

The lawsuit was filed in the Central District of California federal court.

Attorneys Walter T. Clark and Dan C. Bolton allege the county and agency failed to provide medical care to a seriously injured pretrial detainee.

“Denied critical medical care for a near-fatal injury for 12 hours and tossed around in different cells while his pleas for help were repeatedly ignored, the Sheriffs in the John J. Benoit Detention Center, in Indio, California, showed a shocking and deliberate indifference to Plaintiff’s serious medical needs—essentially torturing Plaintiff while he suffered excruciating pain hour after hour—while wantonly and intentionally violating basic standards of decency in violation of the Eighth Amendment prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment, and well-established civil rights protections,” reads a news release from the Walter Clark Legal Group.

The attorneys said the plaintiff in the new case was a misdemeanor pretrial detainee who was seriously beaten by two inmates in a supervised area with video surveillance. They say no correctional officers intervened to stop the attack.

“After beginning to experience increasing and intolerable pain in his abdomen, his pleas for medical treatment were ignored by Sheriffs. Rather than provide the medical care he was constitutionally entitled to, Riverside County Sheriffs accused Plaintiff of lying about his pain and refused to permit him to see a medical professional,” reads the news release.

The plaintiff was allegedly left in a separate holding cell for hours as he continued to beg for help, attorneys said. He was moved to a suicide prevention cell for 12 hours before taken to a waiting area and eventually JFK Memorial Hospital.

Attorneys said it was determined that the plaintiff was septic with an infection spreading throughout his body, and that he needed emergency surgery. He underwent two operations, including a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) and an exploratory laparotomy (a procedure where the surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen to directly examine the abdominal area).

The plaintiff woke up at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs after being airlifted.

In a similar case, Clark and Bolton filed a First Amended Complaint on Oct. 7 based on the failure to provide medical care to a pretrial detainee, Clifford W. Mathews, that resulted in his wrongful death.

Bolton added, “Riverside County jails in recent years have been among the deadliest jails in the United States. This action seeks to hold Riverside County accountable for the ongoing and brazen violation of civil rights of pretrial detainees.”

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More improvements for local ports of entry

KVIA on October 17, 2025

Heriberto Perez Lara

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — City-owned ports of entry, such as Ysleta-Zaragoza, Stanton, and the Paso Del Norte bridges, continue to undergo improvements and planning for future expansions.

ABC-7 reported on Tuesday that the El Paso City Council approved a $5 million investment for a feasibility study at the Zaragoza Bridge to expand commercial traffic lanes.

The City’s Director of the International Bridges Department confirmed they are exploring the possibility of adding an additional lane for commercial vehicles next to the current bridge.

“That way we can increase the capacity for commercial vehicles,” Director Tinajero said. “So, essentially, if there is a possibility of expanding capacity on the southbound side for commercial vehicles, we would like to focus on commercial vehicles first because of the potential closure of the Bridge of the Americas.”

It was also confirmed that the city is considering building a new plaza at the Zaragoza Bridge, which will include a pick-up and drop-off area for pedestrians crossing from Juárez. The plaza will feature improvements at all intersections, landscaping, canopies, and public restrooms, among other amenities.

These pedestrian improvements are based on a $12 million grant the department received, along with an additional $3 million from the city. Director Tinajero also confirmed beautification projects such as painting fences, striping, and replacing lane dividers.

Another main project for all the city-owned bridges is upgrading their toll collection systems and improving the Intelligent Transportation System. The implementation phase for Ysleta-Zaragoza is set to start in January next year; BOTA’s project is already underway, led by TxDOT.

Trade and commercial leaders south of the border believe expanding the cargo crossing could be beneficial if commercial traffic is removed from BOTA, but they insist these projects must be completed before the modernization of the South-Central El Paso bridge begins in fall 2027.

“During that time, the impact we’re going to have on the industry is going to be tremendous; I’d like a different approach,” said Manuel Sotelo, vice president of CANACAR in northern Mexico. “That is, as soon as we finish building or expanding the other crossings, we’ll start the BOTA project, which isn’t where that dialogue exists.”

There are 19 commercial lanes across the Santa Teresa-Tornillo bridges, six of which are part of BOTA, and losing a third of those crossings could pose risks to the industry, according to Sotelo.

“How are we going to manage to get the third part that’s going to be closed? There may be many plans, there may be many studies, but by the time the closure happens, we won’t have one more toll booth; we’ll have six fewer toll booths,” Sotelo said.

The Ysleta-Zaragoza bridge handles 70 to 80% of the total imports and exports across the El Paso area, and it operates from 6 a.m. to midnight.

“I think a smart decision would be to start the Córdoba project when we have more infrastructure at the other bridges,” Sotelo added.

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Man sentenced to probation in 2023 Jefferson City park shooting

KMIZ on October 17, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A man who was charged in connection with a 2023 shooting at McClung Park in Jefferson City pleaded guilty this week to a felony.

Syvonn Byrd, of Jefferson City, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to unlawful use of a weapon and was sentenced to five years of supervised probation. He was previously charged with first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. 

One witness had identified Byrd, according to the probable cause statement described in previous reporting. The witness allegedly told police that Byrd took out a gun from his waistband on Oct. 5, pointed it at several people at a party and shot, court documents in previous reporting say. Court documents say the witness’ account lined up with video recordings seen by law enforcement.

Other people accused in the shooting — that injured two people – took plea deals. Laquan Boose, of Jefferson City, pleaded guilty on Oct. 9 to accessory to unlawful use of a weapon and was sentenced to five years of supervised probation.

He was previously charged with accessory to first-degree assault, accessory to unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action and accessory to resisting arrest.

Raymond White-Murry, of Fulton, pleaded guilty in 2024 to aiding and abetting a shooting and was sentenced to five years of supervised probation. He originally faced that charge and armed criminal action.

Dayjuan Crossland is currently charged with accessory to first-degree assault, accessory to unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. He has a hearing scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10.

Previous reporting says Crossland was injured in the shooting, but was accused of pulling a gun and firing during an argument at a party with about 100 people at McClung Park. Police found at three least calibers of ammunition at the park.

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Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation welcomes Kevin Perkey as new executive director

KTVZ on October 17, 2025

Barney Lerten

Update: Adding video

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation Board of Directors announced on Thursday the appointment of Kevin Perkey as the organization’s new executive director.

“Perkey joins MBSEF following an extensive search process and brings a deep background in nonprofit leadership, strategic growth, and community engagement,” the organization said in a news release Thursday that continues below.

“As a Bend resident and parent whose children have participated in MBSEF programs, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative role MBSEF plays in developing young people through sport,” said Perkey. “I’m excited to build on that proud legacy by working with our coaches, staff, and families to continue elevating MBSEF as a premier organization that helps every athlete reach their full potential.”

Perkey has built a career leading nonprofit organizations through pivotal moments of growth and change, combining strategic vision with operational excellence. He and his family have lived in Bend since 2021, and his two sons have participated on MBSEF’s Freeride Development and Competition Teams as snowboarders.

“Kevin’s experience, leadership, and passion for youth development make him an ideal fit for MBSEF,” said Howard Friedman, President of the MBSEF Board of Directors. “We’re confident he will continue to advance the foundation’s mission of helping athletes achieve their individual athletic, academic, and personal goals.

Perkey is currently transitioning from his previous role and is expected to assume full-time responsibilities as Executive Director by early November.

The MBSEF community welcomes Kevin as he leads the organization into its next exciting chapter.

More About Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation:

The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) is a leading winter sports organization and nonprofit based in Bend, Oregon since 1986. Skyliners Ski Club, MBSEF’s root organization, originated in Central Oregon in 1927. The vision of MBSEF is to positively impact the life of every athlete it serves, and it is proud to be the recipient of the 2024 US Ski and Snowboard Development Club of the Year. For more information on MBSEF, its programs, and how to support MBSEF athletes, visit www.mbsef.org.

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‘Know Problem’ this November with a variety of free programs at the Deschutes Public Library

KTVZ on October 17, 2025

KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Every great solution begins with a curious mind. Put on your detective hat and dive into “Know Problem” this November with the Deschutes Public Library.

Investigate the deepest mysteries of the universe and let your curiosity meaningfully contribute to science. Join a collective meditation and sharing circle to honor nature. Flow through mindful movement with a guided yoga class. Kids can solve problems of physics and engineering with hands-on play and solve math problems using fun and games.

All programs are free and open to the public. Programs marked with an asterisk (*) require registration. 

Intro to Restorative Justice Principles 

Explore the principles and history of restorative justice with Stand-in Restorative Justice LLC. Build healing through restorative justice dialogues and learn how they can bring parties together to address and understand harm. 

Wednesday, November 5 • 2:30 p.m. • Sunriver Library | 56855 Venture Lane, Sunriver 

Wednesday, November 12 • 10:30 a.m. • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

 Bike Repair Basics in English y Español* 

Practice hands-on skills to keep your bike safe and ride-ready. Participants can practice fixing a flat, adjusting brakes and gears, and basic chain maintenance. Registration required. 

Wednesday, November 5 • 5:30 p.m. • Larkspur Community Center | 1600 SE Reed Market Road, Bend 

Wednesday, November 12 • 5:00 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Family Planetarium Exploration 

Join the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory for an interpreter-led tour of the solar system in their inflatable planetarium. Recommended for children ages 6 and up; children must be accompanied by a caregiver. There will be two viewings: 2:00–2:30 p.m. and 2:45–3:15 p.m. Space is available on a first-come-first-served basis. 

Friday, November 7 • 2:00–3:30 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 N Cedar Street, Sisters 

Chill Flow: Adult Yoga* 

Leave your problems behind through mindful movement. Join a relaxing yoga class as we breathe, stretch, and flow together, seeking to ease the mental chatter and soothe our bodies through movement. Registration required. 

Friday, November 7 • 4:00 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Saturday, November 15 • 11:00 a.m. • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

Hack Your Space: AI DIY Edition* 

DIY isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about imagining what could be. Glow up your space with “Mr. Fix It” to combine the power of AI with a simple toolbox to take on fun, creative projects at home. Intended for participants ages 12 and up. Registration required.  

Saturday, November 8 • 10:00 a.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Saturday, November 8 • 1:30 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause: Understanding Hormones 

Learn about what perimenopause and menopause are, the common symptoms that accompany them, and how to manage this natural phase of life. Andrea and Jillian are experienced Nurse Practitioners with a shared passion for providing comprehensive, evidence-based care in gynecology and reproductive health. 

Sunday, November 9 • 10:30 a.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Sunday, November 9 • 3:00 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters 

Sensory Photography* 

Practice solving the problem of aligning your heart, mind, and gaze with the photograph. In this workshop, experience the image and question the act of photography in a world where it seems everything has already been captured. Intended for ages 16 and up. Registration required. 

Sunday, November 9 • 1:00 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Stories of the Land Meditation 

Join us in building community around stories of the land that we all share and call home. This program starts with a guided meditation practice and opens into a sharing circle to learn of others’ connections with the land around us. 

Wednesday, November 12 • 5:30 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

From Curiosity to Contribution: A Community Science Intro 

Bring your excitement and curiosity for an introduction on becoming a community scientist. Leave with ideas, tools, and the confidence to find a community science project that brings you enjoyment and connection while you make a positive contribution.  

Friday, November 14 • 2:00 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters 

Saturday, November 15 • 1:00 p.m. • Sunriver Library | 56855 Venture Lane, Sunriver 

Pop-Up Exhibits with the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon 

Solve problems of physics and engineering with hands-on building and play. Check out the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon’s favorite exhibits during this open playtime. Intended for children ages 0–11; all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 10:30 a.m.–noon • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

Common Cooking Problems and How to Overcome Them* 

From soggy vegetables to dried-out meat, learn to fix common kitchen fails. Hear a brief instruction of how to overcome common cooking problems, like everything sticking to your pans, burning your food, and under-seasoned food. We then combine all these concepts and make a dish to enjoy together. Registration required. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 6:00 p.m. • Arome | 432 SW 6th Street, Redmond 

Exploring Central Oregon’s Ungroomed Ski Trails 

Join Eric Ness and Sue Sullivan from the Central Oregon Nordic Club (CONC) for a presentation on how to enjoy the freedom of cross-country skiing. Get a look at the essential equipment, key preparations, and the best places to find solitude on Central Oregon’s abundant ungroomed trails. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 6:30 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend  

For more information about these programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz Goodrich at lizg@deschuteslibrary.org or 541-312-1032. 

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Spencer Smith announces bid for Boone County circuit associate judge

KMIZ on October 17, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Attorney Spencer Smith in a Thursday press release announced his candidacy for the Division 9 Boone County Circuit associate judge role.

The release says Smith graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 2017 and worked as the deputy district attorney in Josephine County in Oregon until he became a public defender in Roseburg, Oregon. He then joined the Boone County prosecutor’s office from 2021-23 before going into private practice, the release says.

He then became a public defender in the Columbia trial office, the release says.

He previously served in the United States Navy and currently lives in Columbia with his family, the release says. He volunteers with the Agape Ministry, and is a member of the NAACP, the ACLU and the Boone County Democrats, the release says.

“Having served as both a prosecutor and a public defender, I have a deep appreciation for the importance of impartiality and fairness in our judicial system,” Smith said in the release. “I am running for Associate Judge because I believe our courts must remain fair, independent, and accessible to everyone.”

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