Author: KIFI

David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Law enforcement and mental health specialists are sounding the alarm after state cuts eliminating services for individuals with serious mental illness.

Six local lawmakers met with providers on Friday at the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office to hear concerns about the elimination of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program in Idaho on December 1.

“We deal with the extremely mentally ill people in our community,” said Tom Tueller, owner of Tueller Counseling. “… Without this program, we want the counties to understand that their budgets will go up extremely high.”

The cuts will eliminate “community-based care,” he said, which allows providers to travel and assist individuals who otherwise would not come to office visits.

The end of the program also cut funding for peer support specialists; employment specialists; and nurses who provide medication compliance, delivery, injections and support. 

Bonneville County Sheriff Sam Hulse warned that eliminating support programs has a cost far beyond dollar signs.

“The truth is, if we can’t keep people stable in the community, then they’re going to end up in the crisis services – that means the emergency rooms, that means our jails, and that puts an increased burden on law enforcement.”

Hulse also serves as president of the Idaho Sheriffs’ Association, which recently released a letter to Gov. Brad Little and leaders in the Idaho Legislature, warning of a “significant public-safety concern.”

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Ric Boyce told lawmakers the $13 million Idaho saves by eliminating the ACT program will ultimately cost the state’s counties and taxpayers $150 million in property taxes for increased incarcerations, hospitalizations and legal services.

“Now the state comes in with a wrecking ball because they mismanaged the budget, and they train wreck everything,” Hulse said Friday. “Then they anticipate that they’re not going to have problems. We’re here to tell you as sheriffs, you’re going to have problems, and some of these problems are not going to be measured on a spreadsheet about budgets, but they’re going to be measured in human cost.”

The legislators said they recognize the importance of the mental health services, but warned of a political climate in Boise where a majority of lawmakers are looking to “DOGE” or cut entire programs and potentially repeal Medicaid expansion.

Tueller said he’s hopeful the Legislature will take action to restore mental health services for those who need it most.

Tom Tueller owns Tueller Counseling and serves as the director of Assertive Community Treatment in the region.

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Doug Long

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — December 20th, 1951, was a big day for the United States and southeast Idaho. On that day 75 years ago, EBR-1, the experimental breeder reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory, became the world’s first nuclear reactor to generate usable electricity from atomic energy, initially powering four light bulbs, then an entire building, and eventually the town of Arco.

Tomorrow, the INL will celebrate the 75th anniversary of this breakthrough in energy production.

“At the end of World War two, the whole world knew the United States could destroy something by splitting an atom. Demonstrated that pretty powerfully. And this is the first time they have made electricity, a peaceful application by harnessing that same power.”

The INL is inviting the community to join them in celebrating the occasion at the EBR-1 museum for a free, family-friendly event. The morning bus leaves at 9 AM, and the afternoon bus will leave at 12:15 PM.

The museum is typically open in the summer. This event offers a rare winter opportunity to explore the historic EBR-I museum, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and hear a festive EBR-I themed holiday poem read by Liza Raley, INL ambassador and former local radio personality.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate a pioneering achievement in science and technology — right here in Idaho.

The museum is located 50 miles west of Idaho Falls on U.S. Highway 20. Hours for December 20th are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.

To register for a seat on the free bus ride to the site, click HERE.

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News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Several suspected drug traffickers and a convicted felon are off the street as a result of a multi-agency narcotics investigation that culminated in three arrests. The investigation recovered several pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and illegally possessed firearms.

According to the Idaho Falls Police Department (IFPD), investigators seized approximately 11.85 pounds of methamphetamine, 1.2 pounds of fentanyl, 6 ounces of cocaine, and one pound of marijuana. Additionally, officers recovered two firearms and $6,793 in suspected drug proceeds.

The sweep was conducted by the IFPD in partnership with the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, the U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.

First Warrant and Arrest

The arrests each took place on December 4th, 2025, as police executed a batch of search warrants. Starting in the 200 Block of Water Avenue, investigators detained Juan Carlos Marquez-Nevarez at his residence without incident. A search of the property reportedly uncovered four pounds of methamphetamine, a stolen 9mm pistol, and $3,637 in cash.

Juan Carlos Marquez-Nevarez was arrested for Drug Trafficking in Methamphetamine and Possession of Stolen Property.

Second Warrant and Arrest

Police executed a second warrant targeting a residence in the 1100 block of Mojave Street, detaining Raphael Carranza during a traffic stop shortly before the residence was searched. Inside the home, officers located and detained Billi Carranza.

The search of the home uncovered a .40 caliber handgun belonging to Rafael, a convicted felon prohibited from owning firearms, along with $3,156 in cash, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

According to IFPD, Rafael Carranza was arrested for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana. Billi Carranza was cited for Frequenting a Place Where Controlled Substances are Used, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Misdemeanor Injury to a Child due to the presence of children in the home.

Third Warrant and Arrest

The final warrant led to the arrest of Griselda Resendiz. At her residence and an associated storage unit, investigators discovered 7.85 pounds of methamphetamine, 1.2 pounds of fentanyl, and 6 ounces of cocaine.

Resendiz was arrested on an existing federal warrant for the Delivery of a Controlled Substance. She is expected to face additional state and federal charges regarding the bulk quantities of narcotics found during the raid.

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News Team

 WYOMING (KIFI) — U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) announced Friday that she will not seek re-election in 2026, retiring at the end of her first term in the Senate. The 71-year-old veteran of Wyoming politics cited the physical and mental demands of the office.

In a heartfelt statement, the Senator described her tenure as “an incredible honor,” noting that representing the people of Wyoming has remained her “one-and-only priority.”

Lummis was candid about her decision to step away, comparing her time in Washington to a long-distance race.

“In the difficult, exhausting session weeks this fall, I’ve come to accept that I do not have six more years in me,” Lummis admitted. “I have felt like a sprinter in a marathon.”

Despite her decision to retire, Lummis emphasized her commitment to her remaining time in office. She highlighted her alignment with President Trump, vowing to spend the next year “throwing all my energy into bringing important legislation to his desk” and ensuring Republicans maintain control of the upper chamber in the 2026 midterms.

A Trailblazing Career

A veteran of Wyoming politics, Lummis served as a U.S. representative for the state of Wyoming from 2009 to 2017. In 2021, she became the first woman to represent the state in the U.S. Senate.

Lummis reflected fondly on her colleagues, noting her time serving alongside the late Senator Mike Enzi, Senator John Barrasso, and Representative Harriet Hageman. “We all put Wyoming first, which has cemented our cohesive working relationship,” she said.

Tributes from Colleagues and Mentees

Reaction to the news of Lummis’s retirement was immediate, with fellow Wyoming Senator John Barrasso praising Lummis as “a perfect senator for Wyoming…” who never stopped fighting for the people.”

“Cynthia is a straight shooter and a trailblazer,” said Barrasso. “We’re going to miss her infectious energy and iconic laugh in the halls of the U.S. Senate. I’m grateful we have another year to work side by side serving the people of Wyoming.”

State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder recalled meeting Lummis as a high school student, an encounter that sparked her own career in public service.

“I looked up to her instantly. When I was in college, I jumped at the opportunity to work on her first campaign for Congress and later served as an intern in her Washington, D.C. office,” said Degenfelder. “Throughout her career, she has championed Wyoming’s interests with tenacity and principle. But more than her record, Senator Lummis has been a trailblazer, a lifelong mentor to many, and a dear friend to our beloved state. Thank you Senator!”

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Curtis Jackson

JACKSON, Wyo. (KIFI) – Winter weather conditions have closed the Teton Pass on Wyoming 22 between the Idaho border and Wilson, Wyo.

It is unknown when it will reopen.

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Ariel Jensen

IDAHO (KIFI) — The season of giving is here, and the Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree Christmas program is hoping to kids in need a holiday miracle. The program estimates that thousands of children in Idaho have parents who are incarcerated.

“This season won’t be marked by warmth and celebration; it will be marked by loneliness. Children impacted by parental incarceration often carry a heavy emotional burden. But we have the ability to change that,” said Joi Johnson, Account Coordinator for the Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree Christmas program.

The Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree Christmas program serves over 200K children nationwide. It delivers gifts and a personal note to children on behalf of their incarcerated parents.

“These are more than just toys—this is a powerful conduit for hope and love,” said Johnson.

Fellowship’s Angel Tree Christmas program is asking for the community’s support.

“The involvement of local Idaho churches and community groups are necessary to ensure every child in the area receives this hope,” said Johnson.

For more information on how you can help, visit here.

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Megan Lavin

IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO (KIFI) — Last night, the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce and Teton Volkswagen held their 3rd annual Gingerbread for a Cause.

Local businesses competed in a 60-minute gingerbread house building and decorating competition. 

Advantages and disadvantages were auctioned off to help pad your chances of winning, including buying a mandatory break for your opponents. Competition was fierce, with people running around trying to grab all the toppings they could.

The winner was the Idaho Healthcare Institute, winning the jackpot of the night: over 10 thousand dollars!

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News Team

UPDATED:

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Pocatello High School has returned to normally scheduled classes on Friday morning, Dec. 19, after police determined a rumored threat was unsubstantiated. While the school day continued as scheduled, administrators opted to reschedule a planned assembly out of an abundance of caution.

The incident began on Friday morning when the Pocatello Police Department received reports of a potential threat involving the high school. In response, school staff briefly placed the building under a hall check.

Following a thorough review by school administrators and law enforcement, officials confirmed the threat was unsubstantiated.

“The safety of students, staff, and our community is always our top priority,” said Chief Roger Schei. “When we receive information like this, we take it seriously and respond quickly. In situations like these, it is always better to be cautious while we work to confirm the facts.”

“The safety of students, staff, and our community is always our top priority,” said Chief Roger Schei. “When we receive information like this, we take it seriously and respond quickly. In situations like these, it is always better to be cautious while we work to confirm the facts.”

In a statement posted to Facebook, School District 25 (D25) confirmed that all students remained safe throughout the investigation. The preliminary review of the issue supports their decision to continue the school day as planned; however, today’s assembly has been rescheduled.

“We appreciate your partnership in reassuring your learner and discouraging the spread of rumors. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will share additional information if needed,” states the post.

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Seth Ratliff

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador is leading a coalition of state attorneys general in voicing sharp opposition to the Trump Administration’s recent move to reschedule marijuana.

The pushback comes just hours after President Trump signed an executive order intended to expedite medical cannabis research—a move the administration claims will revolutionize treatment while stopping short of full federal legalization.

Rescheduling Marijuana?

During a signing ceremony in the Oval Office on Thursday, President Trump described the reclassification as “common sense”, according to CNN.

RELATED: Trump signs executive order expediting marijuana reclassification after lobbying from cannabis industry

“This order will make it far easier to conduct marijuana-related medical research, allowing us to study benefits, potential dangers, and future treatments,” Trump said. “The facts compel the government to recognize that marijuana can be legitimate… especially as a substitute for addictive and potentially lethal opioid painkillers.”

Currently, the DEA classifies marijuana as a Schedule I substance, the most restrictive category, alongside heroin and LSD. These drugs are legally defined as having “no currently accepted medical use,” according to the DEA.

Reclassifying it to Schedule III would place it in the same category as ketamine, anabolic steroids, or testosterone, drugs considered to have a “moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.”

Labrador’s Concerns: Science and Public Safety

Attorney General Labrador, joined by attorneys general from Nebraska, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Wyoming, argued that the science supporting marijuana’s status as a dangerous drug remains clear.

In a joint statement, Labrador emphasized that Idaho has seen “firsthand the harm” the drug causes in local communities.

“The negative impacts of expanded marijuana use, especially on children and adolescents, are worrisome,” Labrador stated. “The public policy challenges, such as the exponential increase in difficult-to-combat driving under the influence, are both significant and serious.”

While Labrador noted that the group is “grateful” for the administration’s willingness to hear their views, he signaled that legal challenges or further formal opposition could be on the horizon. He states the group will “evaluate the order closely to determine how we can best continue to engage, protect the public health, and ensure the safety of our citizens.”

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KIVI Staff

Naylor is accused of killing 4 people in the Magic Valley in July

By: KIVI Staff

MAGIC VALLEY, Idaho (KIVI) — Benjamin Roy Naylor is expected to plead guilty to four counts of murder stemming from a July quadruple homicide that spanned Cassia and Minidoka counties, according to court records.

Under the agreement, Naylor would plead guilty to two counts of murder in each county — four total — in exchange for prosecutors not pursuing the death penalty. If accepted by the judge, sentencing will be left to the court, though prosecutors and the defense are jointly recommending four life sentences without the possibility of parole.

Naylor, 56, is accused of killing Kelly and Donna Jenks in their Burley home, then murdering Angelica Medina, 25, and Dennis Mix, 77, in Minidoka County.

RELATED | Suspect in dual-county homicide investigation faces four counts of first-degree murder

In November, Naylor waived his right to a preliminary hearing in Cassia County following months of psychological evaluations and a court-ordered mental competency exam. His attorneys indicated at that time they were working toward a plea agreement and planned to waive the preliminary hearing in Minidoka County as well.

READ MORE | Quadruple homicide suspect, Benjamin Naylor, waives preliminary hearing as attorneys work on plea agreement

Under the plea agreement, Naylor will also agree to pay restitution, court costs, and other statutory fees, with amounts to be determined at a later date.

Naylor will be back in court in Cassia County at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 22. Idaho News 6 will be present in the courtroom and will continue to provide the latest updates.

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