Author: KIFI

Par Kermani

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — The Rexburg Police Department is sounding the alarm over a sharp increase in “sextortion” cases, a digital blackmail scheme that investigators say is increasingly targeting high school and college-aged victims in the area.

Detective John Bone is a digital forensics investigator with the department and is concerned with the number of cases he has seen and the mental health impact it is making on community members.

“The bad guys are using those pictures to intimidate the person to send them money,” Bone said. “We’re seeing an uptick in that in the area, and we want to make sure our citizens are knowledgeable about it”.

Police say the scam typically begins on social media apps such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. The scammers will often create fraudulent profiles to “catfish” young adults, luring them into sharing explicit photos before blackmailing the individual into giving them money.

Once the photos are sent, the scammers demand payment, often starting around $100 under the threat of sending the images to the victim’s family, friends, or employers.

“My biggest thing is if someone’s demanding money, just stop all communications.” Bone said “There’s opportunities where you can disconnect and turn your profile off. They will threaten they’re going to send it to people that you know or send it to employers. In my experience, I haven’t necessarily seen that actually happen.”

Among young adults, Bone says males are targeted more than females.

“It’s typically people impersonating females and then catfishing or luring these young males into these types of relationships where they think it’s nice and safe. In reality, it’s just to expose them and to extort them.” Bone warns.

The department issued a warning through their social media feed, but was particularly concerned about the mental health toll these cases take on young people. Bone emphasized that the situation, while stressful, is not life-ruining and that help is available.

“We’ve unfortunately seen people take their own lives because they believe this sextortion is going to ruin everything,” Bowen said. “In reality, we can help you, we can document it, and we can get past this. It’s just a bump in the road.”

Police are urging anyone targeted by these scammers to stop all communication immediately and not send any money, as payments often lead to further demands. Also Block the individual and deactivate the social media account to cut off the scammer’s access to the victim’s contact list. And finally Report the incident to local law enforcement.

For parents and youth seeking more information, the department recommends utilizing resources from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Idaho task force. For more information, click HERE.

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Maile Sipraseuth

DRIGGS, Idaho — Medicaid cuts and declining reimbursements are having a direct impact in Teton Valley, where Teton Valley Health Care has laid off some staff and closed a clinic amid ongoing financial challenges.

The hospital is one of the largest employers in the valley, but Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer of Teton Valley Health Care, Leianne Everett, says it is facing pressures similar to rural hospitals across the country. A major factor is a high percentage of patients covered by Medicare and Medicaid, along with reimbursement rates that do not fully cover the cost of care.

“Like many other rural health care facilities, we are in a situation where our reimbursements are declining. Fifty-two percent of our patients do come with Medicare or Medicaid as their coverage, which means that 52% of our population, we are not covering our cost on supplying those services to those patients. So, it has created a reliance upon our cash reserves,” Everett said. “And then recently just based on the critical access hospital reimbursement mechanism it was determined by CMS that we owed them $1.2 million.”

Everett, who is the CEO but also has served as the hospital’s CFO since 2023, said leadership has relied on data to determine whether vacant positions should be replaced or eliminated as part of these efforts.

As part of these cuts, the hospital also shut down its infusion clinic.

“In an attempt to look at how we can have enough money to pay the bills we’re encountering on a monthly basis, we were looking at our service lines,” Everett said. “The ability to order those expensive drugs, administer them, and then wait for reimbursement was not sustainable for us in our current situation. That’s why the decision was made.”

Everett says most of the major changes have already taken place. Moving forward, the hospital will continue evaluating individual service lines to determine whether they are financially sustainable.

If a service is not covering its costs, Everett said the hospital may explore options such as negotiating new contracts or making other adjustments to remain financially viable.

“I think that we do have a lot of county support. We’re in a county that’s growing. I think that together with the community support, we’ll be able to figure out how to retain services. I am confident that we will not be closing our doors as a result of this. We’re just going to have to restructure and figure out how to how to respond to the current market conditions,” Everett said.

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Seth Ratliff

RIRIE, Idaho (KIFI) — All schools within Ririe School District #252 have canceled all classes through the end of the week as a wave of illness leaves many desks and workstations empty.

Superintendent Jeff Gee announced the closure on Wednesday on Facebook, citing a significant spike in absences among both students and staff.

“Our hope is that this four-day break from school will allow the illness to run its course and will also give our custodial staff additional time to complete a deeper cleaning of our buildings,” Gee stated.

The situation in Ririe mirrors that of Hazel Stuart Elementary School in Shelley, which last week was forced to close its doors for four days due to a combination of influenza and stomach flu. Both closures take place in what doctors are calling one of the worst flu seasons in three decades.

RELATED: Super flu: Worst influenza season in 30 years sweeping Idaho

While the classes in District #252 have been cancelled until Monday, all previously scheduled events will proceed as planned. However, district officials are strongly asking students who are ill to stay home.

“Thank you for your understanding and for helping us keep our students and staff healthy,” states the post.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — A 33-year-old local man faces up to five years in state prison after a jury found him guilty of striking a police officer during a confrontation last summer.

On Tuesday, January 27, Christian James Markmiller was convicted of felony battery on a peace officer and misdemeanor resisting or obstructing, according to Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney Randy Neal.

The charges stem from an incident on June 13, 2025, where Markmiller was allegedly attempting to film officers from the Idaho Falls Police Department as they investigated a report of an impaired driver. Idaho Falls Police Department (IFPD) officers were investigating a report of an impaired driver when Markmiller approached the scene. Though not involved with the driver in the initial investigation, Markmiller began filming the officers with his cellphone while shouting at them.

According to court documents, the officers told Markmiller he could video the traffic stop from a safe distance, but the 33-year-old continued to approach, circling the officers. In their testimony, one of the officers stated they ordered Markmiller to “step no closer,” but instead, he continued to approach.

The officer then told Marmiller he was interfering with the traffic stop and was under arrest. At this point, the officer took hold of him, and Markmiller struck the officer in the head. Court documents detail how Markmiller continued to resist the officers as they took him to the ground and handcuffed him.

During the trial, Markmiller argued that his actions were protected under the First Amendment, claiming he had a “duty” to disobey what he perceived as an unlawful order.

Prosecuting Attorney Neal categorized the incident as a “First Amendment audit,” pointing to several YouTube contributors who make a living by videoing police activity and sometimes antagonize and try to provoke the police.

He noted that while citizens have the right to record police, that right does not grant immunity for physical interference or violence.

“The courts have consistently held that while the First Amendment recognizes several rights, these are not absolute,” explained Neal. “Many of these professional ‘auditors’ actually employ lawyers who advise them on the limits of the law,” Neal said.

“The First Amendment does not excuse someone who interferes with a lawful investigation, commits violence against police officers, or resists a lawful arrest,” Neal added.

Markmiller remains in custody pending his sentencing, which is scheduled for March 25, 2026.

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News Release

The following is a news release from Idaho Fish and Game:

RIRIE, Idaho — The Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved the purchase of 280 acres during its November meeting, expanding the Tex Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in eastern Idaho. Funding for the acquisition was provided by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, onX, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game license dollars. The Department took ownership of the property in early December following Commission approval.

The newly acquired property is located approximately 16 miles east of Idaho Falls and is directly adjacent to the existing Tex Creek WMA. The 280 acres consist of two parcels that will provide important habitat benefits for big game winter range and Columbian sharp-tailed grouse year-round.

The southern parcel includes one of the few remaining juniper stands in the area, which has been shown to be critical winter habitat for mule deer following the Henry’s Creek Fire in 2016. Protecting this parcel helps maintain secure winter range for deer and other wildlife during harsh conditions.

The northern parcel is primarily grassland habitat, consistent with much of the former agricultural landscape within the WMA. This habitat supports Columbian sharp-tailed grouse throughout the year and contributes to the long-term conservation of the species.

Tex Creek WMA is managed to help wildlife when they are most vulnerable, while also providing unique hunting and recreational opportunities for the public. “Thanks to Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and onX for helping to make this acquisition possible,” says Ryan Walker, Tex Creek Habitat Biologist. “Adding these additional acres will protect them in perpetuity and allow the wildlife populations that depend on these landscapes to thrive.” 

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News Release

The following is a news release from Idaho State University:

POCATELLO, Idaho — Experience an evening honoring Indigenous Resilience as Dr. S. Matthew DeSpain presents traditional Far West fur trade history at Frazier Hall on January 28 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Throughout the event, DeSpain will reconceive traditional Far West fur trade history and emphasize how the mountain men and rendezvous are still heavily rooted in American expansionism, discovery, and exceptionalism. Therefore, encounter and centrality of Native peoples become the better means in rediscovering and rebalancing the history of the Far West fur trade.

While Jedediah Smith is a key figure in this popular story of exceptionalism and the “opening of the West”. Smith’s “discoveries” resulted from numerous encounters with Indigenous peoples who informed and guided Smith with Indigenous cartographic knowledge through various Indigenous geopolitical worlds.

DeSpain is a professor of history and director of Native American Studies at Rose State College in Oklahoma. Originally from Orem, Utah he attended Brigham Young University then completed his graduate work at the University of Oklahoma. He served the Chickasaw Nation in their Culture and History Division and taught at OU in both history and NAS before landing at Rose State. Teaching and research interests span the Native American history, history of the West, the imagined West, stereotypes and Indian mascots, federal Indian policy, masculinity in the West, and the Far West fur trade. When not pursuing history and Indigenous studies you can find him fly fishing, playing bagpipes, or seeking out the next best extreme rollercoaster.

This event is made possible by the Mary and Melvin Jackson endowment. A reception with light refreshments will follow the presentation and film in the lobby of Frazier Hall.

The IMNH has served Idaho since 1934. To learn more please visit isu.edu/imnh or call (208) 282-3168.

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Seth Ratliff

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Blackfoot is calling on the public for help after an intentional act of vandalism that left local homeowners facing costly repairs and hazardous sewage backups over the weekend.

According to a post on the City of Blackfoot Facebook page, an unknown individual, or individuals, intentionally destroyed a sewer manhole lid and filled the opening with sand. The incident took place between Friday, Jan. 24, and Monday, Jan. 26, on Hill View Drive, just off E. Walker Street.

The resulting blockage didn’t just damage city infrastructure; City officials say it caused immediate sewage drainage issues and backups inside nearby homes. The post describes the fallout as a significant “hardship” for Blackfoot residents who are now dealing with the financial aftermath.

The Investigation

In the wake of the act of vandalism, the Blackfoot Police Department is currently canvassing the neighborhood and asking residents to check their Ring doorbell cameras or security footage for any suspicious activity during the weekend in question. City officials are asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or has more information on what happend to come forward.

“Even small details can make a big difference,” states the post.

In a direct message to the vandal or vandals responsible, the City did not mince words, labeling the act as “sabotage” and highlighting the severe legal stakes involved.

“To the individual or individuals responsible for this recent act of sabotage (this can be considered an act of Domestic Terrorism and prosecuted under Federal law), we encourage you to reach out to City Hall so we can discuss any concerns you may have about the City operations directly,” states the post. “Constructive conversations help us improve our community, while vandalism only harms the very neighborhoods we all care about.”

If you have information regarding this incident or captured suspicious footage on Hill View Drive, please contact the Blackfoot Police Department. For more information, click HERE.

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News Team

SODA SPRINGS, Idaho (KIFI) — Congressman Mike Simpson (R-ID) announced Tuesday that he has secured over $9 million in federal funding to overhaul the stretch of US-30 through the heart of Soda Springs.

The investment, part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives in a bipartisan 341-88 vote. The project aims to modernize aging infrastructure and bolster the local economy.

Simpson says the project is a long-time priority for Idaho and will help keep Soda Springs’ economy strong.

“This project will provide essential infrastructure improvements, enhancing public safety,” said Rep. Simpson.  “Additionally, it will attract more visitors, which will help keep Soda Springs’ economy thriving. Since this has been a concern, I am proud to advocate for this project that will bring necessary improvements and benefit the people of Soda Springs and throughout the state.”

The funding will be used to fix the damaged base and surface pavement of US-30, fill in thin spots, and add a center lane to address safety concerns with an eastbound left turn into the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office. The project will also replace old and failing water pipe connectors during construction that are located within the roadway section.

The reconstruction is a key part of Idaho’s 2025–2031 State Transportation Improvement Plan.

“ITD is grateful for Congressman Simpson’s assistance in securing funding for this important project in the heart of Soda Springs. This is a great example of coordinating transportation improvements that benefit the city, county, and the state in a single project,” said Zak Johnson, ITD District 5 Planning and Scoping Engineer.

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Maile Sipraseuth

DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI) — In memory of the late Kali Randall, Teton County’s Family Safety Network has officially named its new emergency shelter in Driggs, Idaho, ‘Kalico Cottage,’ the nonprofit announced Tuesday. The naming honors the Greenville, Wis. native—along with her son Zeke and unborn daughter Freya, whose lives were lost to domestic violence in 2023—and the mission of Kalico Forest, the nonprofit founded in her name to protect women and children.

RELATED: Kali and Zeke Best – A mountain of memories from lives cut short

“We are profoundly honored and deeply moved by Family Safety Network’s decision to name its new emergency shelter cottage Kalico Cottage,” said the Randall family. “The idea of Kalico Cottage becoming a real, breathing sanctuary in the valley Kali, Zeke, and Freya loved so much brought tears and hope in the same breath. This captures the overwhelming emotion we feel; tears for the irreplaceable loss that still aches daily, two years after their lives were taken and a fierce, unwavering hope that this cottage will stand as a grounded haven where survivors find the safety, dignity, and fresh beginnings Kali always embodied.”

Kalico Forest is also making strides to work with domestic abuse shelters in Northeast Wisconsin, where Randall is from, such as Harbor House, where they have donated Freya’s Bloom Boxes. 

For more information about Kalico Forest, click HERE.

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Seth Ratliff

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Looking to bridge the gap between the Statehouse and the community, State Senator James Ruchti (D-Pocatello) has announced three town halls for District 29 residents and surrounding community members during the 2026 legislative session. Ruchti says these forums are designed as a nonpartisan space for Idahoans to discuss the future of Medicaid, ask questions about policy priorities, and share concerns directly with leadership.

“Our democracy works best when the people are heard,” said State Senator Ruchti. “These events give folks the chance to speak directly with their elected representative, and for me to better understand how the decisions we’re making in Boise are affecting everyday Idahoans.”

Event Schedule & Areas of Focus

The first of these town halls will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, at the Pocatello City Hall. According to the event description, this town hall is part of a “broader effort to hear directly from constituents about the challenges and gaps in Idaho’s healthcare system, especially regarding Medicaid access and eligibility.”

The second and third events will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and Saturday, March 21, 2026. Both events will run from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at the Pocatello City Hall. Ruchti says these nonpartisan town hall events will cover a broad range of topics, including education, the state budget, and current legislation.

All of our events are open to everyone regardless of party affiliation and are intended to foster respectful, bipartisan discussion.

“We may not all agree on every issue, but we can agree that listening to one another – and beinghonest about our challenges – is the first step toward good policy,” State Senator Ruchti added. “Ihope to see you there.”

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