A Merrill man accused of leading Merrill officers and county deputies on a high speed pursuit, then kicking and threatening officers while in custody, is headed to trial.
John David DuFour, 38, of Merrill, faces an array of charges stemming from the Dec. 30, 2018 incident, including: Felony charges of 1st Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, Vehicle Operator Fleeing or Eluding a Law Enforcement Officer, three counts of Felony-Battery or Threat to a Law Enforcement Officer, two counts of Misdemeanor Resisting or Obstructing an Officer and two counts of Domestic Violence related Disorderly Conduct.
According to a criminal complaint filed with the Lincoln County District Attorney’s office, on the evening of Dec. 30, officers responded to a reported domestic disturbance on West First Street in the city of Merrill. While en route, officers were advised DuFour was intoxicated and had departed the residence in a mini-van. One of the responding officers observed the vehicle DuFour was driving eastbound on West Main Street near Cottage Street.
According to officer notes, the officer turned his patrol vehicle around and activated the emergency lights in an effort to stop DuFour’s vehicle. Rather than stop, the vehicle accelerated and turned on to Wright Street, nearly striking a vehicle stopped at a stop sign, then continued driving against traffic on a one-way street. The officer activated his patrol vehicle’s siren and continued to follow as the van turned on to State Street then back on to West Main Street, reaching speeds in excess of 80 mph. The van then reportedly turned into the lane of oncoming traffic on West Main Street, nearly striking two oncoming vehicles before turning into an alley and striking two snow banks near a west side business and came to a stop in the back yard of the residence where the original call for assistance was made.
While at gunpoint, DuFour emerged from the vehicle and reportedly consistently ignored officer directives. DuFour reportedly responded with vulgarities and taunted officers; reportedly stating “come get it.” At one point, DuFour approached officers while continuing to ignore officer commands. One of the officers then deployed a TASER device to gain DuFour’s compliance. Once handcuffed, DuFour reportedly continued to resist officers’ efforts to take him into custody. He was later transported to Ascension Good Samaritan Hospital for medical clearance, where he once again became uncooperative with officers. At one point DuFour allegedly kicked one officer and repeatedly threatened others.
DuFour appeared in Lincoln County Circuit Court Wednesday, Jan. 2, where he was charged and ordered held on $3,000 cash bond. According to court records, DuFour pled not guilty to his charges, waved his right to a preliminary hearing on Friday, Jan. 11, and was bound over for trial. His next court appearance is set for a pre-trial conference on Thursday, Jan. 31.

The post Merrill man accused of kicking, threatening officers following high speed pursuit, headed to trial appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

This week’s featured question was submitted for Merrill Police Chief Corey Bennett

Merrill Police Chief Corey Bennett

The question reads:
“Is it still legal to ride ATV in town during the winter or is it only a summertime thing?”

Answer as given by Chief Bennett:
“Our City trail/route is open unless otherwise signed or advertised. We are currently exploring additional signage options for the City.”

In addition Section 36 Article V of the City of Merrill Code of Ordinances governs ATV/UTV operation in the city limits and reads as follows:

Sec. 36-250. –
Applicability of traffic regulations to all-terrain vehicle and utility-terrain vehicle operation.
No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle upon any street, highway or alley within the city in violation of the traffic regulation provisions of Wis. Stats. §§ 346.02(10) and (11), 346.04, 346.06, 346.11, 346.14(1), 346.18—346.21, 346.26, 346.27, 346.33, 346.35, 346.37, 346.39, 346.40, 346.44, 346.46—346.48, 346.50(1)(b), 346.51—346.55, 346.87—346.91, 346.92(1) and 346.94(1), and (9).

Sec. 36-251. – [Intent.]
The intent of this article is to provide a means for persons to travel from a residence and/or lodging establishment within the limits of the City of Merrill for the shortest distance necessary for a person to operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle to the all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle route or trail that is closest to that residence or lodging establishment.

(a) Such travel shall be allowed only when the connecting Lincoln County all-terrain vehicle and utility-terrain vehicle trails are open and operational. (b) Routes may be closed at any time, by order of the chief of police. (c) The city shall, from time to time, designate a route within the city limits, maps of which shall be kept on file with the office of the city clerk and the Merrill Police Department. That map delineates allowed routes of travel for all-terrain vehicles or utility-terrain vehicles.

Sec. 36-252. – Conditions for operation.
(a) Speed. No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle within city limits at a speed in excess of 15 miles per hour. (b) Place of travel. Shall operate on the far right portion of the highway or shoulder and shall not in the roadway/traffic lane, and travel with the flow of traffic. (c) Single-file operation. All-terrain vehicles and utility-terrain vehicles shall be operated in single file and as far to the right portion of the street as possible. (d) Headlights and tail lamps shall be on at all times during operations. (e) All-terrain vehicle and utility-terrain vehicle operators shall yield the right-of-way to other vehicular traffic and pedestrians. (f) Sidewalk operation prohibited. No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle on any sidewalk or pedestrian way within the city. (g) Street crossings. No operator of an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle shall cross any street, except at its intersection and then only at right angles to the street crossed. (h) Use of trailers or sleds. No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle upon any street within the city with any person, trailer or sled attached or trailing said vehicle, unless it is designed for such activities. Anyone operating such conveyance in an unsafe or reckless manner shall be deemed in violation of this section. (i) Operation in parks. No person shall drive an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle in any park within the city. (j) Permission of property owner required. No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle on any private property not owned or controlled by him within the city without the express consent or permission of the owner. (k) All-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle crossing a bridge shall: (1) Cross the bridge in the most direct manner practicable and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing. (2) Stay as far to the right of the roadway or shoulder as practicable. (3) Stop the vehicle prior to crossing. (4) Yield the right-of-way to other vehicles, pedestrians, and electric personal assistive mobility devices using the roadway or shoulder. (5) Exit the highway as quickly and safely as practicable after crossing the bridge.
All-terrain vehicles or utility-terrain vehicles violating any of the above conditions would be subject to the underlying violation of operating on the roadway.

Sec. 36-253. – Unattended vehicles.
No person shall leave or allow an all-terrain vehicle or utility-terrain vehicle owned or operated by him to remain unattended on any public highway or public property while the motor is running or with the starting key left in the ignition.

Sec. 36-254. – Prohibited routes for all-terrain or utility-terrain vehicle travel.
• Highway 64
• Highway K/Center Avenue from O’Day Street North to East Sixth Street
• Highway 107/Grand Avenue

Have a question or concern you would like to address? Simply send your question or concern to jratliff@mmclocal.com along with an indication of which entity your question or concern pertains to. Current participants are the Merrill Police Department, Merrill Fire Department, Tomahawk Police Department, Merrill City Administrator Dave Johnson, Merrill Common Council President Rob Norton Merrill Area Housing Authority Director Paul Russell, Lincoln County Clerk Chris Marlowe, Lincoln County Administrative Coordinator Jason Hake, Lincoln County Forestry Land and Parks Director Kevin Kleinschmidt, Local DNR Conservation Warden Curt Butler and Merrill Area Public Schools (MAPS) Superintendent Dr. John Sample. Please note: Those who submit to the ‘Ask an Official’ feature remain anonymous.

The post Ask an Official: Merrill Police Chief discusses winter ATV operation in the city appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

January 14
10:10 p.m.- Officers responded to a domestic incident. The caller stated that they had gotten into an argument which led to an injury. It was caused by the female party being flipped off a mattress causing her to strike her face on the window sill. This caused a large bump and laceration. Upon the completion of the investigation, the male party was taken into custody for domestic disorderly conduct and was transported to the Lincoln County Jail.

January 15
5:15 p.m.- Officers responded to the area of 3rd and Logan Street for a report of a hit and run. It was reported a vehicle had crashed into a sign and fled the area. Officers were able to locate the vehicle and make contact with the involved party after a witness followed the vehicle from the crash location. The male driver was arrested for several charges including OWI.

January 16
9:27 a.m.- Officers responded to the office of Probation and Parole to take a male party into custody for a probation violation. The male was transported to the jail.
1:44 p.m.- Officers responded to the office of Probation and Parole to take a male party into custody for a probation violation. The male was transported to the jail.
2:01 p.m.- Officers responded to the office of Probation and Parole to take a female party into custody for a probation violation. The female was transported to the jail.
7:53 p.m.- A caller reported a scam attempt. He had received a phone call from a male claiming to be his great-grandson. The caller claimed he had been in an accident and was requested him to send him money due to an injury. Luckily the caller knew this to be a scam and did not send any money.
10:46 p.m.- Officers were dispatched to a residence after it was reported a female had been pepper-sprayed and the suspect left the area in a vehicle. It was found two females had been exposed to pepper-spray. The two stated they had been followed from Wausau and the suspect vehicle had been speeding and tailgating them while heading to Merrill. They claimed they went to a friend’s house and the suspect vehicle stopped as well. The driver opened her window to inquire as to what they wanted and a female from the suspect vehicle sprayed pepper-spray on them through the open window. This is still under investigation.

January 17
1:29 a.m.- A caller reported a male in a laundromat that was pounding on the walls and making “goofy” noises. When officers arrived there was nobody at the laundromat however a cell phone was left behind as well as a pair of jeans. A name on the phone provided the likely owner however officers were unsuccessful in locating him. A short time later a deputy reported the male was at the Sheriff’s Office pounding on the door. Officers made contact with him and he confirmed he had been at the laundromat pounding on the walls and making loud sounds to get someone’s attention as he was seeking a ride to a residence. The male was clearly under the influence of drugs and was found to be on probation. Contact was made with Probation & Parole and they determined he had violated his rules. The man was arrested for a probation violation.

January 18
At the request of the offices of Probation and Parole, three individuals were taken into custody for various probation violations.

January 19
An officer took a fraud complaint involving and individual being advised he had won money from the Ellen show. He was asked to put money on Amazon cards in order to get the money he had won. At this point the victim has a loss of $1,000.
An officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of Sales Street and East 9th Street on a vehicle as the registered owner had a suspended driver’s license. During the traffic stop the vehicle was searched after the odor of marijuana was detected. Subsequent to the search the driver was cited for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Underage Transportation of Intoxicants and Operating after Suspension. Additionally a firearm was found to be concealed in the vehicle.

January 20
Officers responded to a motel for a report of a female threatening staff at the business. It was learned that a staff member confronted a female that was renting a room about the number of people she was allowing in the room as she only paid for one person. When confronted, the female became disorderly. The involved female will be cited for Disorderly Conduct.

The post Merrill Police reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

A 39-year-old Merrill man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after deputies investigated a disturbance in the Town of Merrill. Deputies arrested the man on a charge of battery for an incident they learned took place on Jan. 10.

A 37-year-old Merrill man was arrested Saturday morning on a criminal traffic charge. A deputy came across a vehicle stopped at the intersection of County Rd. K and County Rd. G. The vehicle remained stopped at the lights despite the fact the light had been green for some time. The deputy made contact with the driver and detected the odor of an intoxicant. The driver was asked to perform field sobriety tests and as a result he was arrested for a third offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Eight people reported striking deer this past week on Lincoln County roads.

The post Lincoln County Sheriff’s reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

Amber A. Meyer-25 of Merrill, was charged January 16 with Felony charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Maintaining a Drug Trafficking Place, Harboring/Aiding a Felon and
Misdemeanor charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of THC.
According to court records, on the evening of January 1, 2019 officers of the Merrill Police Department and deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a residence located at 1800 West Main Street in the City of Merrill. Upon executing the warrant, Meyer and another party were located inside the residence. The other party was found to have outstanding warrants for his arrest-one being a felony warrant- and was also found to be currently on probation. Upon a search of the residence, a green leafy substance was located which later field tested positive for marijuana. A white, rocky substance was also discovered, which later tested positive for methamphetamine. Other items found as a result of the search warrant include  a pipe commonly used to smoke marijuana, a pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamine, in addition to numerous other pipes and bags.
Meyer reportedly admitted to ownership of the marijuana but denied knowledge or ownership of the methamphetamine. Meyer reportedly admitted to other people frequenting the residence to
smoke marijuana and also admitted to knowledge of the male party she was in the company of, having outstanding warrants for his arrest and being on probation. Meyer also reportedly admitted to providing the male party with food, as well as residing with the male at the 1800 West Main Street residence, for approximately one week.
Meyer was released from custody January 3 on $1,500 signature bond.

The post Search warrant leads to felony drug charges for Merrill woman appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

January 16
Calls: #79- At 8:00 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Squad 64 responded to a report of a gas odor, found a gas meter had been hit by a vehicle, gas was shut off. #80- At 7:58 p.m. Med 62 responded to Sunrise Rd. for a 75 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #81- At 10:50 p.m. Med 62 responded to Main St. for a female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #82- At 11:20 p.m. Med 62 responded to a call for a 21 year old female in a car accident, no transport.
Other activities: Fire safety inspections of area businesses.

January 17
Calls: #83- At 1:44 a.m. Med 62 responded to Grand Ave. for a call, no transport. #84- At 7:50 a.m. Med 62 responded to 6th St. for a 57 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #85- At 10:52 a.m. Med 63 responded to 2nd St. for a male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #86- At 9:25 p.m. Med 62 responded to a call, no transport.
Other activities: Fire prevention inspections of area businesses. Trained on vertical ventilation.

January 18
Calls: #87- At 9:27 a.m. Med 62 responded to Jemmy Ct. for a 82 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #88- At 3:50 p.m. Med 63 responded to St Paul St. for an 77 year old female with a medical problem, transported to Aspirus Wausau. #89- At 4:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to Cty. Rd. G for a 82 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #90- At 9:00 p.m. Med 62 responded to Caifornia St. for a 71 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: Readings on vertical ventilation in fires.

January 19
Calls: #91- At 7:09 a.m. Eng 62, Truck 63 and Med 62 responded to Cleveland St. for a report of smoke, upon arrival found the source and extinguished the fire, no injuries. #92- At 9:11 a.m. Med 62 responded to Gleason Community Club. for stand by for the races. #93- At 4:36 p.m. Med 62 responded to Pine Crest for a 70 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #94- At 6:03 p.m. Eng 62, Med 62 and tender 65 responded to a call for an oven fire, investigation found a gas leak causing the fire, gas was shut off. #95- At 7:17 p.m. Med 62 responded to Pine Crest for a 70 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other Activities: Trained on ice rescue using the RDC and rescue suits.

January 20
Calls: #96- At 1:53 a.m. Med 62 responded to a call for a 6 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #97- At 5:28 a.m. Med 62 responded to Bell Tower for an 96 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #98- At 11:03 a.m. Eng 62 responded to Prospect St. for a 20 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #99- At 12:44 p.m. Med 62 responded to O’Day St for a 89 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #100- At 2:49 p.m. Med 62 responded to Schulz Spur Rd for a 63 year old male with a lift assist, no transport.
Other activities: CPR class was held for a local business.

January 21
Calls: #106- At 8:51 a.m. Med 62 responded to Polk St. for a 55 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #107- At 9:27 a.m. Med 62 responded to Grundy Rd. for a 77 year old with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #108- At 12:27 p.m. Med 63 responded to River St. for an 54 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #109- At 4:26 p.m. Med 62 responded to Martin St. for a 52 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #110- At 11:32 p.m. Med 62 responded to 6th St. for a 23 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: On duty personnel reviewed infant and child CPR.

The post Merrill Fire Department Reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The Merrill Police Department holds an arrest warrant issued 01/17/2007 for Alexis A. Neeland, DOB 06/07/1974, last known address 903 Grand Ave., Schofield. The city recovered a judgment of $209.61 for a violation of worthless checks. The defendant is in default of payment, and must pay the amount or spend 6 days in jail.
The information on this warrant was current as of the time of publication. Anyone with information on Alexis A. Neeland should call the Merrill Police Department at 715-536-8311.

The post Merrill Police Department’s Warrant of the Week appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The following cases were heard in Merrill and Tomahawk Municipal Court Dec. 17, 2018.

Operate after suspension
Stevie L. Degner, Merrill, $187. Amanda S. Ferch, Tomahawk, $250. Jared T. Kniess, Merrill, $124. Nicholas J. Leudtke, Merrill, $187. Terri L. Phillips, Merrill, $250. Justin R. Stiver, Merrill, $124.

Fail/Yield While making left turn
Carol M. BArtz, Merrill, $98.80. Tyson K. Fitzpatrick, Eagle River, $98.80. Sarah R, Frisch, Merrill, $98.80. Emma A. Golisch, Merrill, $98.80. Grace H Gruber, Merrill, $98.80.

Inattentive Driving
Makayla R. Becker, Merrill, $111.40. Dean D. Dittmar, Merrill, $111.40. Molly M. Schult, Merrill, $111.40.

Operate MV without insurance
David A. Crowell, Merrill, $124. Jordan A. Jaeger, Merrill, $124. Ward R. Larson, Rhinelander, $124. Terri L. Phillips, Merrill, $124. Matthew Pulliam, Merrill, $124.

Speeding
James M. Fickson, Merrill, $98.80. Elizabeth A. Nelson, Wausau, $98.80. Amber B. Nueske, Wausau, $98.80. Amber K. Prentice, Merrill, $124. Jonny Xiong, Wausau, $98.80.

Operate MV without valid license
Megan K, Higgins, Merrill, $124. Marco S. Mayen, Merrill, $124. Matthew Phillips, Merrill, $124.

Underage Drinking
Koy L. Hoffman, Milladore, $439. Bryce S. Olson, Marshfield, $187.

Theft of Library Materials
Scott A, Schulz, Merrill, $678.23. Robert G. Kleinschmidt, Merrill, $159.60. Lucy A. LeBrun, Merrill, $268.69.

Non-Registration of Auto
Andrew I. Riley, Phillips, $98.80. Ward R. Larson, Rhinelander, $98.80.

The post Municipal Court Report appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

January 22
Calls: #111- At 7:51 a.m. Med 62 responded to Norwegian Rd. for a 73 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #112- At 9:24 a.m. Med 62 responded to Bell Tower for an 83 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #113- At 12:33 p.m. Med 62 responded to Joe Snow Rd. for a female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #114- At 1:06 p.m. Med 62 responded to a call for a 96 year old female in a car accident, no transport. #115- At 10:50 p.m. Med 62 responded to Schielke Rd. for a 69 year old male with a respiratory problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: Fire safety inspections of area businesses.

January 23
Calls: #116- At 12:24 a.m. Med 62 responded to River St. for a 79 year old with an illness, no transport. #117- At 9:50 a.m. Med 62 responded to Hwy. CCC for a female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #118- At 4:22 p.m. Med 63 responded to Sales St. for a male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #119- At 6:35 p.m. Eng 62 responded to a call for a gas odor, no leak found.
Other activities: Fire prevention inspections of area businesses. Trained on vertical ventilation.

January 24
Calls: #120- At 8:47 a.m. Med 62 responded to Railway St. for a 73 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #121- At 8:52 a.m. Med 63, Eng 62 responded to a report of a gas odor, no leak found. #122- At 1:25 p.m. Med 62 responded to Riverside Ave. for an 89 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #123- At 3:50 p.m. Med 62 responded to California St. for a 71 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #124- Med 62 responded to Range Line Rd. for a 78 year old with a fall, no transport. #125- At 8:42 p.m. Med 62 responded to Pine Crest for a 90 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #126- At 10:06 p.m. Car 67 responded to a report of a gas odor, the leak was found and fixed.
Other activities: Readings on vertical ventilation in fires.

January 26
Calls: #127- At 3:00 a.m. Med 62 responded to Prospect St. for a 72 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #128- At 10:43 a.m. Med 62 responded to Bell Tower for a 7 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #129- At 5:03 p.m. Med 62 responded to Pine Crest for a 53 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #130- At 6:44 p.m. Med 62 responded to Cottage St. for a female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #131- At 9:49 p.m. Med 62 responded to 8th St. for a 58 year old male with a lift assist, no transport. #132- At 10:23 p.m. Med 62 responded to AGSH for a 52 year old female with a medical problem, transported to Pine Crest.
Other activities: CPR class was held for a local business.

January 27
Calls: #133- At 11:19 a.m. Med 62 responded to Pine Crest for a 60 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: On duty personnel reviewed infant and child CPR.

The post Merrill Fire Department reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The Merrill Police Department holds an arrest warrant issued 04/06/2015 for Khongkha Khammanivong, DOB 06/06/1967, last known address 616 1/2 Chicago Ave., Wausau. The city recovered a judgment of $187 for a violation of displaying false vehicle registration plate. The defendant is in default of payment, and must pay the amount or spend 3 days in jail.
The information on this warrant was current as of the time of publication. Anyone with information on Khongkha Khammanivong should call the Merrill Police Department at 715-536-8311.

The post Merrill Police Department’s Warrant of the Week appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The following cases were heard in Merrill and Tomahawk Municipal Court Jan. 21.

Operate while intoxicated-
Laura J. Klug, Denmark, $942.50. Thomas D. Kropla, Tomahawk, $773.25.

Fail/Yield While making left turn-
Kory L. Brietzke, Tomahawk, $98.80.

Operate MV without insurance-
Alec J. Ludwick, Tomahawk, $124.

Speeding-
Devin J. Callahan, Tomahawk, $124. Zachary W. Grigg, Tomahawk, $98.80. Rebecca L. Lawrence, Tomahawk, $98.80. Robert T. Potter, Eagle River, $98.80.

Operate after suspension-
Michael A. Brown, Tomahawk, $124.

Non-Registration of Auto-
Amber R. Zanow, Tomahawk, $98.80.

The post Municipal Court Report appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

January 28
1:13 pm, an officer made contact with a female that was sitting in a vehicle in the city hall parking lot after being advised she had a warrant for her arrest. Upon making contact with the female a warrant was confirmed through probation and parole and she was arrested.

1:35 pm, an officer made contact with a female who was observed shoveling snow after he was made aware she had an active warrant for her arrest. The warrant was confirmed and she was arrested.

January 29
1:18 am, officers were dispatched to a business on Pine Ridge Avenue for a report of a group of individuals that were being disorderly in the business. As officers were arriving, the parties were leaving after being told by staff that they needed to leave. The parties were warned for disorderly conduct and the business with satisfied with the group leaving.

5:30 pm, officers were dispatched to a residence after the occupant called to advise that another female had come to residence, created a disturbance and would not leave. Officers had just dealt with the same parties a short time before this call and they had been warned for their behavior. Contact was made with the female suspect who admitted to going to the residence and not listening when she was asked to leave. She was arrested for disorderly conduct. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections Probation and Parole also placed a hold on the female subject.

January 30
8:47 pm, officers responded to a disorderly conduct complaint. The caller had gone into a civil agreement with a male party regarding a vehicle but now the male party was making threats towards the female caller. Contact was made with both parties, who mutually agreed to exchange the vehicles to cease any further issues. Officers stood by while this occurred to make sure no other issues arose.

January 31
12:54 pm, officers responded to a disorderly conduct complaint. The caller stated she and another female had gotten into a physical altercation. Officers arrived on scene and made contact with both parties. The female suspect had struck and bit the female caller. The female suspect was brought back to the Police Department for an interview and became belligerent and was pulling away from officers. The female struck her head into the wall of the police department causing damage. The female was arrested for battery and criminal damage to property. Probation and Parole also placed a probation hold on the female.

3:57 pm, an officer was dispatched to a suspicious vehicle complaint that had occurred in the county that was heading towards town. The occupants in the vehicle were possibly using narcotics. The officer located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop for a traffic violation. The driver did not have a valid driver’s license and was cited for the violation. A consent search of the vehicle was conducted and no illegal items were located.

February 2
An officer responded to a vandalism complaint in the 1400 Block of E 7th St after the reporting party found his house had been egged. There are no suspects at this time.

Officers responded to the 500 block of Genesee St for a report of a domestic incident involving an intoxicated male party that was breaking items inside the residence. Officers made contact with the involved parties and the male was arrested for domestic related disorderly conduct.

The post Merrill Police Reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

A 38 year old Merrill man is in the Oneida County Jail and facing multiple charges in both Lincoln and Oneida County after deputies investigated a report of bail jumping Tuesday. The man was with a female victim who he was not allowed to have contact with due to an open felony case in Lincoln County Court. The suspect was located but fled on foot, and stole a vehicle. Oneida County deputies located the vehicle and pursued it into Forest County before it was stopped. The man was charged in Oneida County with fleeing an officers, felony bail jumping and multiple traffic charges. Once returned to Lincoln County the man will face a felony charge of strangulation along with battery, disorderly conduct and bail jumping.

Cold weather was likely the cause of a power outage that occurred Wednesday morning and affected homes in Pine River and the City of Merrill. The Lincoln County 911 center worked with local emergency services groups to control the situation where lines came down onto the roadway and to coordinate an emergency warming shelter. The dispatcher center estimates they received over 80 – 911 calls during the four hours the power was out. Many of these calls were for non- emergency questions. You are reminded to use the non-emergency number in cases such as this and to be patient as often times the 911 center is focusing on the cause and effects from the power outage itself.

A 24 year old Tomahawk man was arrested Friday morning after deputies investigated a vehicle in the ditch in the Town of Birch just after 3:00am. While speaking with the driver, deputies detected the odor of marijuana. A search found a loaded syringe whose contents tested positive for methamphetamine along with a bag whose contents tested positive for methamphetamine. Upon arrival at the jail marijuana was also discovered. The man was charged with possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and possessing/concealing controlled substance in a correctional facility.

A 22 year old Merrill man was arrested Friday morning on a warrant charge. The man made an appearance in Lincoln County Court and the deputy assigned to security at the Lincoln County Court House discovered he was wanted for violating the terms of his probation.
A 65 year old Star Lake man was injured Sunday evening after his vehicle left US Hwy 51 and rolled at 9:00pm. He was transported by Tomahawk EMS to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital.

A 27 year old Gleason man was arrested Monday morning on several charges after deputies responded to a disturbance in the Town of Russell after a 911 call reported the incident. The suspect struck the victim with a fire extinguisher before taking the victim’s vehicle. He was booked into the Lincoln County Jail where he was charged with felonies for aggravated battery and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent along with misdemeanor charges of criminal damage to property and bail jumping.

Rain and ice have made for treacherous roadways in Lincoln County Monday morning. Deputies have been responding to crashes and slide offs starting at 4:00 AM. At least one person was injured after a vehicle crash State Rd 17 and Norwegian Rd. Highway and town crews are addressing the roads but most of the salt and sand they are applying is just washing off. The number of deer crashes is up slightly with seven being reported this past week.

The post Lincoln County Sheriff’s Reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

January 29
Calls: #140- At 12:05 a.m. Med 62 and Eng 62 responded to Stange St. for a report of a fire alarm sounding, no fire was found. #141- At 7:25 a.m. Med 62 and Eng 62 responded to Sales St for a fire alarm, no fire, student accidnetly pulled fire alarm. #143- At 2:08 p.m. Med 62 responded to MSHS for a 30 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #144- At 2:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to MCMC for a 76 year old female with a medical problem, no transport. #145- At 3:30 p.m. Med 62 responded to AGSH for a 60 year old with a medical problem, transported to PCNH. #146- At 4:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to State Rd. 17 for a 83 year old female with a fall, transported to St. Claire’s. #147- At 10:31 p.m. Med 62 responded to a call, no transport. #148- At 11:43 p.m. Med 62 responded to Logan Ave for a down power wire, stood by until WPS arrived.
Other activities: Fire safety inspections of area businesses.

January 30
Calls: #149- At 12:52 a.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 88 year old female with a fall, no transport. #150- At 1:00 a.m. Med 62 responded to Cottage St for a 70 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #151- At 2:13 a.m. Med 62 responded to Pa-Trey Ln. for a 74 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #153- At 8:28 a.m. Med 62 responded to PCNH for a 88 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #154- At 3:28 p.m. Med 62 responded to 3rd St for a 52 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #156- At 7:30 p.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 86 year old female with a medical problem, no transport.
Other Activities: Trained on vertical ventilation.

January 31
Calls: # 157- At 9:24 a.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 75 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #158- At 10:27 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to Genesee St for a report of smoke in a house, MFD found a chimney fire and extinguished it, no injuries. #159- At 2:21 p.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 18 year old female with a medical problem, no transport.
Other activities: Readings on vertical ventilation in fires.

February 1
Calls: #160- At 3:45 a.m. Med 62 responded to Lake Pesobic Rd for a 2 year old with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #161- At 12:07 p.m. Med 62 responded to Grand Ave for a 53 year old female with a medical problem, no transport. #162- At 5:10 p.m. Med 62 responded to Francis Dr for a 88 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: CPR class was held for a local business.

February 2
Calls: #163- At 3:33 a.m. Med 62 responded to Joe Snow Rd. for a 60 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #164- At 4:54 a.m. Med 62 responded to Nelson Ave for a 83 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #165- At 1:45 p.m. Med 61 responded to Gleason for snowmobile race stand by. #167- At 4:51 p.m. Med 63 responded to 8th St for a 23 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #168- At 8:56 p.m. Med 62 responded to Main St for a year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: On duty personnel reviewed infant and child CPR.

February 3
Calls: #169- Eng 62, Truck 63 and Med 62 responded to O’Day St for a fire alarm sounding, no fire was found. #170- At 6:32 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to O’Day St for a fire alarm, no fire found, maintenance notified. #171- At 8:51 a.m. Med 62 responded to Hwy 17 for a 44 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #172- At 9:02 a.m. Med 62 responded to Main St for a 70 year old male wiht a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #174- At 3:25 p.m. Med 62 responded to Big Eddy Rd for a 63 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #175- At 3:57 p.m. Med 62 responded to Center Ave for a 97 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #177- At 7:58 p.m. Med 62 responded to Sales st for a 78 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #179- At 11:38 p.m. Med 62 responded to Lilac Ln for a 36 year old female with a medical problem,

February 4
Calls: #180- At 1:13 a.m. Med 62 responded to State St for a 24 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #182- At 9:10 a.m. Med 62 responded to Eugene St for a 69 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #183- At 9:49 a.m. Med 63 responded to 1st St for a 89 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #184- At 11:23 a.m. Med 62 responded to Rock Ridge Ct. for a 85 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #185- At 12:58 p.m. Med 62 responded to Eugene St for a 71 year old female with a fall, no transport. #187- At 6:34 p.m. Med 62 responded to Center Ave for a 16 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #188- At 6:50 p.m. Med 63, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to Matthews St for a chimney fire, upon arival MFD laddered to the chimney and extinguished the fire.

The post Merrill Fire Department reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

Over the course of three days-February 5, 6 and 7- eight members of the Merrill Fire Department, along with members of the Merrill Police Department, Merrill Street Department, Merrill Water Utility, Lincoln County Sheriffs Office, Lincoln County Emergency Management and the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors; completed the Critical Incident Management – Initial Response Training Course.

This course was led by three instructors from Wisconsin Emergency Management, while Lincoln County Emergency Management Director September Murphy was responsible for bringing the class to Merrill. Class participants received both classroom and hands on training, which gave students the opportunity to experience being the first arriving supervisor to critical incidents such as an active shooter or hazardous materials call. With the help of instructors, students were able to role play critical supervisor roles on a tabletop model of the city. The initial actions taken by emergency service workers can greatly impact the outcome of an incident.

“It was cool to see all of the respective departments working together. This is exactly what we need to do anytime we are all responding to an incident,” explains Battalion Chief Scott Krause. This course served as a basic introductory course to Unified Command which is the term used when all responding agencies’ supervisors work together to control and mitigate an incident. More specific tabletop training for potential emergencies in Merrill will take place later this year.

The post MFD teams with other area agencies for Initial Response training appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suspected homicide in the Town of Pine River, stemming from a request for a welfare check Thursday morning.

According to a press release issued by LISO this morning, at 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning, deputies responded to a residence on Range Line Road in the Town of Pine River for what they believed to be a welfare check. When deputies arrived on scene, a 77-year old female was located in the residence deceased from a gunshot wound and a
78-year old male was found critically injured from a gunshot wound. The male remains hospitalized and his condition is unknown at this time,.

“This incident is being investigated as a homicide and is ongoing,” the release stated. “It is believed to be an isolated incident and the public is not in danger.
The scene was processed by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Justice Crime Lab. Names are not being released at this time, as further information becomes available, future press releases will follow.

The post Suspected homicide under investigation in Town of Pine River appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

February 5
Calls: #189- At 10:05 a.m. Med 62 responded to Joe Snow rd. for a 61 year old male with a lift assist, no transport. #190- At 11:25 a.m. Med 62 responded to Kyes st for a 75 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #191- At 2:08 p.m. Med 62 responded to MSHS for a 30 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #192- At 2:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to MCMC for a 76 year old female with a medical problem, no transport. #193- At 3:30 p.m. Med 62 responded to AGSH for a 60 year old with a medical problem, transported to PCNH. #194- At 4:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to State Rd. 17 for a 83 year old female with a fall, transported to St. Claire’s.
Other activities: Fire safety inspections of area businesses.

February 6
Calls: #195- At 6:52 a.m. Med 62 responded to Lark St for a 70 year old female with a fall, no transport. #196- At 1:00 a.m. Med 62 responded to Cottage St for a 70 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #197- At 2:13 a.m. Med 62 responded to Pa-Trey Ln. for a 74 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.
Other Activities: Trained on vertical ventilation.

February 7
Calls: #198- At 9:24 a.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 75 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #199- At 10:27 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to Genesee St for a report of smoke in a house, MFD found a chimney fire and extinguished it, no injuries. #200- At 2:21 p.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 18 year old female with a medical problem, no transport.
Other activities: Readings on vertical ventilation in fires.

february 8
Calls: #201- At 3:45 a.m. Med 62 responded to Lake Pesobic Rd for a 2 year old with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #202- At 12:07 p.m. Med 62 responded to Grand Ave for a 53 year old female with a medical problem, no transport. #203- At 5:10 p.m. Med 62 responded to Francis Dr for a 88 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #204- At 6:00 p.m. Med 62 responded to Prospect St for a 17 year old male with an injury, transported to AGSH. #207- Eng 62 and Med 61 responded to PRMS for an internal alarm sounding in the school, no fire was found and scene was cleared.
Other activities: CPR class was held for a local business.

February 9
Calls: #208- At 3:33 a.m. Med 62 responded to Joe Snow Rd. for a 60 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #209- At 4:54 a.m. Med 62 responded to Nelson Ave for a 83 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #210- At 1:45 p.m. Med 61 responded to Gleason for snowmobile race stand by. #167- At 4:51 p.m. Med 63 responded to 8th St for a 23 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #211- transported to AGSH.
Other activities: On duty personnel reviewed infant and child CPR.

February 10
Calls: #212- Eng 62, Truck 63 and Med 62 responded to State St for a fire alarm sounding, no fire was found. #213- At 6:32 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to O’Day St for a fire alarm, no fire found, maintenance notified. #214- At 8:51 a.m. Med 62 responded to Hwy 17 for a 44 year old male with a medical problem, no transport.

February 11
Calls: #215- At 12:03 a.m. Med 62 responded to Main St for a 24 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #216- At 9:10 a.m. Med 62 responded to Kyes St for a 69 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #217- At 9:49 a.m. Med 63 responded to 1st St for a 89 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #218- At 11:23 a.m. Med 62 responded to Rock Ridge Ct. for a 85 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #219- At 12:58 p.m. Med 62 responded to Eugene St for a 71 year old female with a fall, no transport. #220- At 6:34 p.m. Med 62 responded to Center Ave for a 16 year old male with a medical problem, no transport.
Other Activities: Members performed fire prevention inspections of area businesses.

The post Merrill Fire Department reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The Merrill Police Department holds an arrest warrant issued 11/13/2002 for Guerra Melchor, DOB 05/19/1969, last known address 120 S. Mill St. Merrill. The city recovered a judgment of $734 for a violation of Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated. The defendant is in default of payment, and must pay the amount or spend 29 days in jail.
The information on this warrant was current as of the time of publication. Anyone with information on Guerra Melchor should call the Merrill Police Department at 715-536-8311.

The post Merrill Warrant Police Department Warrant of the Week appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

Monday afternoon, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office released the identities of two parties involved in a Thursday morning shooting in the Town of Pine River

According to a press release, the investigation continues into the incident which left 77-year old Barbara Renken deceased as a result of a gunshot wound. 78-year old John Renken remains hospitalized.
At 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning, deputies responded to a residence on Range Line Road in the Town of Pine River for what they believed to be a welfare check. When deputies arrived on scene, Barbara Renken was located in the residence deceased and John Renken was found critically injured from a gunshot wound.

The scene was processed by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Justice Crime Lab

The post Update: Names released in Pine River homicide investigation appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

February 12
Calls: #223- At 11:46 a.m. Med 62 responded to 1st St for a 42 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #224- At 1:32 p.m. Med 62 responded to Cleveland St for a 76 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #225- At 2:45 p.m. Med 62 responded to a call, no transport. #226- At 5:18 p.m. Med 62, Eng 62 an Truck 63 responded to Francis Dr. for a fire alarm sounding, upon arrival there was no fire and a smell of cigarette smoke.
Other activities: Fire safety inspections of area businesses.

February 13
Calls: #227- At 8:26 a.m. Med 61, Med 63 and Squad 64 responded to a call, no transport. #228- At 10:35 a.m. Med 61 responded to O’Day St for a 76 year old male with a medical problem, transported to St. Claire’s. #229- At 10:54 a.m. Med 63 responded to 6th St for a 84 year old female with an injury, transported to AGSH. #230- At 3:27 p.m. Med 61 responded to Aspirus for an 80 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. Other Activities: Trained on vertical ventilation.

February 14
Calls: #231- At 2:49 a.m. Med 62 responded to Golf Dr. for a 61 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #232- At 8:36 a.m. Med 62 responded to Range Rd for a 78 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #233- At 9:42 a.m. med 62 responded to Main St for a 58 year old male for patient assist no transport. #234- At 12:11 p.m. Med 61 responded to Main St for patient assist, no transport. #235- At 4:29 p.m. Med 62 responded to Jackson St for a 68 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #236- At 7:11 p.m. Med 62 responded to 6th St for a 19 year old female with a medical problem, no transport.
Other activities: Readings on vertical ventilation in fires.

February 15
Calls: #237- At 8:15 a.m. Med 62 responded to Main st for a 25 year old with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #238- At 10:07 a.m. Med 62 responded to Grand Ave for a 53 year old female with a medical problem, no transport. #239- At 7:50 p.m. Med 62 responded to Center Ave. for a 88 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #240- At 10:00 p.m. Med 62 responded to Prospect St for a 17 year old male with an injury, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: CPR class was held for a local business.

February 16
Calls: #241- At 3:33 a.m. Med 62 responded to Joe Snow Rd. for a 60 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #242- At 4:54 a.m. Med 62 responded to Nelson Ave for a 83 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #243- At 1:45 p.m. Med 61 responded to Gleason for snowmobile race stand by. #244- At 4:51 p.m. Med 63 responded to 8th St for a 23 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #245- At 8:56 p.m. Med 62 responded to Main St for a year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #246- At 10:15 p.m. Med 62 responded to 9th St for a 27 year old male with an injury, transported to AGSH.
Other activities: On duty personnel reviewed infant and child CPR.

February 17
Calls: #247- Med 61 responded to Hwy, 17 for a 73 year old female with a cardiac problem, transported to AGSH. #248- At 6:32 a.m. Med 62, Eng 62 and Truck 63 responded to O’Day St for a fire alarm, no fire found, maintenance notified. #249- At 8:51 a.m. Med 62 responded to Hwy 17 for a 44 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #250- At 5:40 p.m. Med 61 responded to Martin St for a 70 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #251- At 5:55 p.m. Med 61 responded to Hwy JJ for a 37 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #252- At 6:19 p.m. Med 62 responded to PCNH for a 66 year old male with an illness, transported to AGSH. #253- At 10:53 p.m. Med 61 responded to Hendricks St for a 24 year old male with a medical problem, transported to AGSH.

February 18
Calls: #254- At 12:03 a.m. Med 62 responded to Main St for a 24 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #255- At 9:10 a.m. Med 62 responded to Kyes St for a 69 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #256- At 9:49 a.m. Med 63 responded to 1st St for a 89 year old female with a medical problem, transported to AGSH. #257- At 11:23 a.m. Med 62 responded to Rock Ridge Ct. for a 85 year old male with a medical problem, transported to WHC. #258- At 12:58 p.m. Med 62 responded to Eugene St for a 71 year old female with a fall, no transport. #259- At 6:34 p.m. Med 62 responded to Center Ave for a 16 year old male with a medical problem, no transport. #260- At 6:47 p.m. Med 61 responded to Center Ave for a 71 year old female with a medical problem, transported to PCNH.
Other Activities: Members performed fire prevention inspections of area businesses.

The post Merrill Fire Department reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.