KPD Traffic Officers Issue Over 60 Citations During Detail
Killeen, TX (November 10, 2020): On Friday, October 30, 2020, officers with the Killeen Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a railroad enforcement detail.
The Killeen Police Department Traffic Unit assisted the BNSF Railroad Police with enforcing Texas Transportation Code laws near the intersection of SH 195 and the railroad tracks. Officers were on scene at approximately 9:30 a.m. and stayed until 12:00 p.m. During this period, the following violations were cited for:
51 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places
2 Ran Red Light
1 Disregard Railroad Signals
2 Fail to Maintain Financial Responsiblity (no insurance)
1 Illegal Tint
2 No Drivers License
1 Fail to Display Drivers License
1 Driving While License Invalid
61 Total Violations
Texas law requires motorists to stop no closer than 15 feet or no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail if; clearly visible signal, a crossing gate lowered, or flagger warns and a railroad engine approaching approximately 1,500 feet. This event was conducted to educate citizens by enforcing traffic laws related to railroad crossing as they pertained to the Texas Traffic Code and Penal Code.
The purpose of this detail is to educated drivers on the proper distance to stop away from the railroad tracks and not to stop on the tracks.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
Killeen Police Conducts Traffic Enforcement Detail
Killeen, TX (November 9, 2020): On Thursday November 12, 2020, in conjunction with National Traffic Incident Response Awareness Week, the Killeen Police Department Patrol Division will conduct a Move Over/Slow Down traffic enforcement operation on Interstate 14 within the Killeen City limits.
The primary objective of this operation is the education and enforcement of the Move Over/Slow Down Law to protect Public Safety workers, tow truck operators, TXDOT personnel, and other protected persons who routinely work and respond to incidents on the highways and roadways of the state.
The Texas Transportation Code:
Sec. 545.157. PASSING CERTAIN VEHICLES. (a) This section applies only to the following vehicles:
(1) a stationary authorized emergency vehicle using visual signals that meet the requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702;
(2) a stationary tow truck using equipment authorized by Section 547.305(d);
(3) a Texas Department of Transportation vehicle or a highway maintenance or construction vehicle operated pursuant to a contract awarded under Subchapter A, Chapter 223, not separated from the roadway by a traffic control channelizing device and using visual signals that comply with the standards and specifications adopted under Section 547.105;
(4) a service vehicle used by or for a utility, as defined by Section 203.091, and using visual signals that comply with the standards and specifications adopted under Section 547.105; and
(5) a stationary vehicle used exclusively to transport municipal solid waste, as defined by Section 361.003, Health and Safety Code, or recyclable material, as defined by Section 361.421, Health and Safety Code, while being operated in connection with the removal or transportation of municipal solid waste or recyclable material from a location adjacent to the highway.
(b) On approaching a vehicle described by Subsection (a), an operator, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall:
(1) vacate the lane closest to the vehicle when driving on a highway with two or more lanes traveling in the direction of the vehicle; or
(2) slow to a speed not to exceed:
(A) 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or more; or
(B) five miles per hour when the posted speed limit is less than 25 miles per hour.
(c) A violation of this section is:
(1) a misdemeanor punishable under Section 542.401;
(2) a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $500 if the violation results in property damage; or
(3) a Class B misdemeanor if the violation results in bodily injury.
(d) If conduct constituting an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under another section of this code or the Penal Code, the actor may be prosecuted under either section or under both sections.
(e) In this section:
(1) “Tow truck” means a vehicle that:
(A) has been issued a permit under Subchapter C, Chapter 2308, Occupations Code; and
(B) is operated by a person licensed under Subchapter D, Chapter 2308, Occupations Code.
(2) “Traffic control channelizing device” means equipment used to warn and alert drivers of conditions created by work activities in or near the traveled way, to protect workers in a temporary traffic control zone, and to guide drivers and pedestrians safely. The term includes a traffic cone, tubular marker, vertical panel, drum, barricade, temporary raised island, concrete or cable barrier, guardrail, or channelizer.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 327, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 229 (H.B. 378), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 6 (S.B. 510), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 11 (H.B. 61), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
KPD Arrests Murder Suspect
Killeen, TX (November 4, 2020)
Through the investigation, Detectives with the Homicide Unit received information from a witness that 20-year-old Cory Grafton was at the scene at the time Chelsea Cheatham was murdered. With the assistance from the Texas Rangers, DNA from the scene was submitted and the results confirmed that Grafton matched the DNA located on Cheatham. On November 3, 2020, detectives with the Homicide Unit obtained a warrant for Murder and shortly after 4:00 p.m., the warrant was executed. Grafton was taken into custody and transported to the Killeen City Jail.
We would like to thank the Texas Rangers and the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Program for their assistance in this Murder case.
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Killeen Police Investigates a Homicide at Days Inn.
On Monday, June 3, 2019, at approximately 10:39 p.m., Killeen Police were dispatched to the Days Inn located at 1602 E. Central Texas Expressway in reference to a female that was unconscious and not breathing. Officers’ immediately started to perform life saving measures until paramedics arrived. The victim, 32 year-old Chelsea Lynell Cheatham was pronounced deceased at 11:35 p.m. by Justice of the Peace Daryl Peters. He ordered an autopsy to be performed at the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas.
At the time of the incident it was unknown if her death was by natural causes and an investigation was initiated. Detectives with the Homicide Unit recently received the results of the autopsy and it was determined the manner of death was ruled a homicide.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
Killeen Police Investigates a Triple Homicide
On Saturday, October 24, 2020, at approximately 12:36 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Blair Street in reference to a cardiac call. Upon the officers’ arrival they were told by a witness that they were at the residence to check on the welfare of one of the residents. That is when the witness looked through a window of the residence and noticed a person laying on the floor. Officers entered the residence and checked the perimeter of the home. They located two males and one female deceased from what appears to be gunshot wounds. Justice of the Peace Garland Potvin arrived on scene and pronounced the victims deceased. He ordered an autopsy to be performed at the Southwest Institute of Forensic Science in Dallas.
The names of the victim have been withheld pending next of kin.
The department is asking anyone who may have seen anything or has information about this Homicide, to contact the Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-TIPS (8477) or go online at www.bellcountycrimestoppers.com. You can also download the P3Tips App for IOS or Android and give an anonymous tip. All information is confidential and anonymous and if your tip leads to the arrest of the person(s) responsible, you could be eligible to receive a reward up to $1,000 in cash.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
KPD Arrests Former Police Officer
NEWS RELEASE
UPDATE – October 15, 2020
The Killeen Police Department continued to follow up on the incidents that had gone unreported by Rodriguez. That ongoing investigation led to a review of the case by the Bell County District Attorney’s Office, and a complaint was issued charging former Texas A & M University – Central Texas Police Officer Jason Luis Nelson with Stalking as a result of his conduct. A warrant was issued for Nelson’s arrest for the Stalking and Harassment.
On Tuesday, October 13, 2020, Nelson was arrested with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service – Lone Star Fugitive Task Force and was transported to the Killeen City Jail. He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Bill Cooke and his bond is at $100, 000.00 for the Stalking and $5000.00 for the Harassment. Nelson is currently in the Bell County Jail.
These cases can be very time consuming when they involve conduct over a prolonged period of time, and multiple police jurisdictions. The Killeen Police Department would like to thank the Texas A & M University – Central Texas and the USMS – Lone Star Fugitive Task Force for their cooperation and assistance in these cases.
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NEWS RELEASE: June 2, 2020
Kempner Police Chief Arrested for Previous Incidents.
On March 11, 2020, the Killeen Police Department received information that a law enforcement officer from Texas A & M University – Central Texas failed to report complaints by a student.
Through an investigation, it revealed that a student enrolled at the university reported Title IX violations that were alleged to have been committed by a former employee of the institution to the former Chief of Police on two occasions. The former Chief of Police failed to report the incidences as required by the Texas Education Code 51.255. Title IX violations include instances of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking.
The Bell County Attorney’s Office reviewed this case and a complaint was issued charging Charles Edward Rodriguez with Failure to Report Certain Incidents. A warrant was issued for his arrest and on Tuesday, June 2, 2020, Rodriguez turned himself in to the Killeen City Jail. Justice of the Peace Cliff Coleman arraigned him and set his bond at $2000.
“Now more than ever, the integrity of the police profession requires thorough impartial investigations, regardless of the status of the accused. The Killeen Police Department stands with survivors of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking, “Chief Charles Kimble.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
KPD No Knock Warrant Policy Revised
Killeen, TX (October 5, 2020): The ninety (90) day temporary hold on requesting search warrants that include a provision to the knock and announce rule has expired. During this 90-day review, the no knock committee met, discussed and concluded their input on how the department could improve on no knock warrant response/policy.
“Our goal and our mission at the Killeen Police Department is to reduce crime, to reduce the fear of crime, and to enhance public safety. In order to do our jobs efficiently and as safe as possible for everyone, we may sometimes have to conduct a no knock search warrant. However, before that takes place, we want you, the community, to understand that there are updated procedures that are followed,” said Chief of Police Charles Kimble.
For more information about the committee’s input and the policy revision, please visit the department’s website by clicking on the following link. https://www.killeentexas.gov/558/Department-Transparency
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
Murder Suspect Located and Arrested
Killeen, TX (September 24, 2020) 11:49 a.m.: Today at approximately 9:30 a.m., the United States Marshal Service – Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (Waco) and the North Texas Fugitive Task Force located and arrested Harrison in the 3200 block of S. Vernon, Dallas, TX, on the arrest warrant for the Murder of Emma Jones.
We’d like to thank everyone that assisted the department in locating this suspect.
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NEWS RELEASE: KILLEEN POLICE ARE INVESTIGATING A MURDER
Killeen, TX (September 22, 2020): A 48-year old male is wanted for Murder after shooting a female at a residence in the 2600 block of Lewis Street.
The Killeen Police Department was called on Saturday, September 19, 2020, at approximately 8:22 p.m., to a residence in reference to a shooting victim. Upon the officers’ arrival, they located a female victim suffering from a gunshot wound. She was airlifted to Baylor Scott and White in critical condition.
On Monday, September 21, 2020, the victim, 43-year old Emma Jones, succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at 8:10 p.m. by Justice of the Peace GW Ivey.
Through the investigation detectives found that the victim and suspect were involved in a domestic disturbance which led to the shooting. The suspect was identified by witnesses on scene.
The case was presented to the Bell County District Attorney’s Office and a complaint was returned charging 48-year old Chance Anthony Harrison with Murder.
A warrant has been issued for Harrison’s arrest and he is considered armed and dangerous.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
KILLEEN POLICE ARE INVESTIGATING A MURDER
Killeen, TX (September 22, 2020): A 48-year old male is wanted for Murder after shooting a female at a residence in the 2600 block of Lewis Street.
The Killeen Police Department was called on Saturday, September 19, 2020, at approximately 8:22 p.m., to a residence in reference to a shooting victim. Upon the officers’ arrival, they located a female victim suffering from a gunshot wound. She was airlifted to Baylor Scott and White in critical condition.
On Monday, September 21, 2020, the victim, 43-year old Emma Jones, succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at 8:10 p.m. by Justice of the Peace GW Ivey.
Through the investigation detectives found that the victim and suspect were involved in a domestic disturbance which led to the shooting. The suspect was identified by witnesses on scene.
The case was presented to the Bell County District Attorney’s Office and a complaint was returned charging 48-year old Chance Anthony Harrison with Murder.
A warrant has been issued for Harrison’s arrest and he is considered armed and dangerous.
Detectives are asking anyone who may know the whereabouts of Harrison, to contact Crime Stoppers at 254-526-TIPS (8477) or go online at www.bellcountycrimestoppers.com. You can also download the P3Tips App for IOS or Android and give an anonymous tip. All information is confidential and anonymous and if your tip leads to the arrest of the person responsible, you could be eligible to receive a reward up to $1,000 in cash.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
We Need the Public’s Help Identifying Two Persons of Interest
On March 16, 2020, officers were dispatched to the 2900 block of Lake Road in reference to a 911 call about shots fired. Upon the officers’ arrival, they located an unresponsive male in the parking lot of an apartment complex suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim, Terrance Darnell Iles, 22, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division, Homicide Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying these individuals. We know the images are distorted and blurry but if you recognize them or have any information about this Homicide, please contact (254) 501-7822.
Drug Distributor Arrested in Killeen
The Killeen Police Department Criminal Investigation Division, Organized Crime Unit in conjunction with the Bell County Sheriff’s Department conducted a narcotics investigation on a suspected narcotic distributor.
On Friday, August 28, 2020, Vincent Barnett, 42, was located and arrested at the Killeen Regional Airport without incident. The suspect was found to be in possession of approximately 220 grams of Heroin, 60 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and a large sum of U.S. currency. The street value of the narcotics seized is approximately $17,800.
This investigation was successful due to the cooperation and communication between the Killeen Police Department and the Bell County Sheriff’s Department.
Ofelia Miramontez
Public Affairs
Killeen Police Department
KilleenPD News 