NH News Briefs 12-5-2024
Funeral plans are now complete for a Endicott College Sergeant Jeremy Cole of Exeter. A law enforcement walk-through is set for 1:30 p.m. next Monday at the Campbell Funeral Home in Beverly, Massachusetts, followed by a public wake from 2 to 8 p.m. Cole was killed by a wrong-way driver on I-95 in Newbury the night before Thanksgiving as he was headed to his New Hampshire home. The driver of the other vehicle, Keoma Duarte of New Bedford, was charged motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence, and other charges.
A plan calling for Dartmouth Health to take over Hampstead Hospital has hit a problem. Yesterday, the Executive Council decided to table the proposal due to concerns over the reach of private control and how the hospital’s employees would be treated. Governor Sununu believes Dartmouth Health could walk away from the deal if it is forced to accept a staff of full-time state workers. If the council doesn’t make a decision soon, the lease plan would be scrapped.
An investigation is still underway into a reported hazing incident that happened at Dartmouth College. Authorities say a student was hit several times with wooden paddle before being forced to eat an onion after throwing it up. The incident occurred months ago while the student was pledging to be a member of the Theta Beta Beta fraternity and the victim needed treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Arrest warrants have been issued and the fraternity is suspended until further notice.
Franklin police are issuing a warning to businesses in their community about counterfeit bills. They say at least one fake 100-dollar bill was used recently and had the words “for motion picture purposes” printed on it. They’re urging workers to keep a closer eye on the money they accept from customers so they don’t end up becoming victims. Anyone who gets a counterfeit bill should report it to police immediately.
David Scanlan is going to serve a second two-year term as New Hampshire’s Secretary of State. With no opponents he was reelected yesterday by the Legislature. Scanlan credited lawmakers with defending the state’s first-in-the-nation primary status when it was challenged earlier this year.
John Ventura is no longer employed as the police chief in Brentwood. The Selectboard issued a statement informing residents but no reason was given. Ventura was placed on leave in October. Lieutenant Justin Doty is the officer-in-charge.
