Rape Case Interview

SMITHVILLE — Two Police officers received Letters of Recognition from Chief Howard Funk for exemplary service to the department.

“One of the things I do is present recognition for superior performance by the officers,” said Funk. “When these awards are presented, I want to bring them to your attention. Sometimes all we hear are negative things and I want to mention some of the positive things.”

Officers, Sgt. Kyle Watson and Officer Jenny Barnett, were recognized by Chief Funk.

Sgt. Watson’s award stemmed from a call on January 11, 2016 when a female resident reported that she had been raped by her live-in boyfriend. Watson interviewed both the victim and the suspect during the course of the investigation.

Watson became skeptical of the victim’s account and arranged for a controlled phone call between the her and the suspect. During the course of the

Barnett worked closely with the schools where she serves as a resource officer and was able to secure the requisite funding to attend the training, approximately $2,000, without any cost to the village. She was recognized for her effort and dedication to the matter.

Park committee chairwoman Joyce Garn notified council that she had received several complaints about people smoking at the park. After some research, it was determined that the ordinance was written in a manner that outlined specific areas where smoking was not permitted. “According to our ordinance covering tobacco, no tobacco use is permitted in pavilions, restrooms, play areas, basketball courts, sports fields or bleachers,” Garn said.

“There are so many areas (in the park) that this doesn’t cover, I would like to have a conversation about making the entire park non-smoking. The way the ordinance is written, person’s smoking near these areas are not in violation of the